I really have no idea if the Arsenal and Spain international defender Nacho Monreal was just having an off day in our home win over Swansea City at the Emirates stadium this weekend, but I do know that the Spaniard was way off his best and I am sure that it did not escape the notice of Arsene Wenger either.
Perhaps the late call-up to the Spain national team after the injury to Jordi Alba and Monreal’s subsequent appearance in their game away to Albania has left the 30-year old a bit jaded for club action this weekend, but I do not see why as Spain played that match last Sunday.
I also think that Monreal’s below par game against the Swans was the latest in a recent list and that Monreal has not been the same player that over the last few years has won the battle of the left backs with Kieran Gibbs and become an automatic first team choice.
Maybe Nacho is just having a slump in form and maybe he has become too comfortable. Either way I reckon it could be time for his rival Gunner Gibbs to be given a chance to shine. The England international has shown a great attitude while hardly getting a game and has done the business when called upon.
The 27-year old was probably set to start the Champions League clash with Ludogorets on Wednesday anyway, and then the EFL cup clash visit of Reading next week, but do you think he should also get to play in the Premier League match at home to Middlesborough on Saturday?
Bob.