Having a big squad is vital for any manager – especially if you have ambitions on challenging for titles. And, when we say a big squad, we are not talking of players who just make up numbers. Having two or three individuals to fight for one starting spot is always a sign that the club is doing something good.
Hector Bellerin is one part of that successful squad. The young Spaniard broke into the Gunners main team last year. His introduction came after the then regular choice Mathieu Debuchy suffered an ankle injury. The youngster then went on to make 28 appearances in all competitions. The roles seem to have reversed this season for the two right-backs. Bellerin is quietly pushing his case to be considered as the first choice ahead of Debuchy. And going by his words, he is enjoying the competition. “I think the competition in every single position in the team is really strong”, the youngster told the club’s official website.
His confidence also stems from the fact that Wenger seems to have been impressed with Bellerin’s presence on the right side of his defence. Debuchy is back to full fitness but the Spaniard has already started two of the three Premier League matches so far.
For Arsenal to win the title this year, a well-rounded squad is pretty much needed. Of course it gives headache for the manager but Wenger isn’t complaining a bit. The importance of a big squad is well documented. When they won the title, Manchester City and Chelsea proved the advantages of it.
The competition for places will be a pleasant surprise for all the fans. Having seen injuries derail title runs at various crucial junctures, it is a welcome change to have options. We have already seen the problems in defence if both your regulars at the heart of the defence do not start. With fit bodies at his disposal, Wenger would be chuckling to himself, although he may start getting worried if our injury list continues growing again…
Sridhar