Arsenal’s defensive record has not been the best so far this season, with the Gunners failing to keep a clean sheet in the Premier League since their 0-0 draw with Middlesbrough. There are a number of reasons which could explain the poor defensive show, many of which have already been discussed, but one change I think Arsene Wenger has to make is at left back.
Arsenal have been linked with Valencia left back Gaya today, a player that Wenger has reportedly scouted in the past. It wouldn’t be the strangest of moves for the Gunners in this transfer window, especially with one of our left backs not being entirely up to the task at the moment.
Nacho Monreal was perhaps one of Arsenal’s and the leagues most consistent defenders last season. The Spanish international pulled his weight against every single opponent he faced in defence and also proved his worth in attack. His ability to get up and down the pitch consistently for 90 minutes was astonishing, whilst not allowing for his defensive capabilities and positioning to falter. His fantastic displays left such an impression that he was recalled to the Spanish national team and things looked like they were only going to get better for Monreal.
This season however he’s looked more out of place and hasn’t been able to calm the calamity that’s currently going on in the Gunners defence. Monreal has looked off the ball, as have a lot of players in this winter period. Given the situation, I now think that Gibbs deserves a chance in defence, with the Englishman remaining loyal and fighting for his place in the side, even when he goes weeks without being picked.
After Arsenal lost Clichy to Manchester City, Arsene Wenger installed Gibbs as the Gunners regular left back. Although he sure wasn’t the first choice of many, he became a regular and reliable figure in the team until his displacement by Monreal in 2013. He is very experienced in the Arsenal set up and has been a very valuable backup player for the Gunners these past few years.
Even if many still wish to argue that Monreal is the better left back, it’s a fair point to make. However given the run of poor form he’s in, I think Gibbs should be given a chance to show us what he’s got, in the true spirit of competition for places.
Do you agree? Do we need to look at other left-backs in the coming window?
By AH