It really hits home how badly Arsenal’s injury list is affecting the squad, when Kieran Gibbs admits that he thought he was probably the most likeliest to be sent on when the Gunners were searching for an equalizer against Tottenham.
Gibbs was asked after the game if he expected to be used up front, and he replied: “Possibly, because in the last few games we have not had midfielders. It has been difficult for the boss with options so in the last few games I have been coming on, and I knew, looking across the bench that, probably, even though I’m a defender I’m one of the more offensive players on the bench. I was happy to come on in a big game like that and get a goal.
“The boss has been struggling with options especially in midfield and up front, so I think a few of the boys were tired having played last weekend, midweek and today. It was a chance for me to bring on some fresh legs and do everything I can to try and help the boys.
“In these types of games you can’t give up when you know what it means to everyone in the club and the fans. I think they were great for us today and spurred us on. You have to come on in those games and give everything you can to try and get the boys going.”
Wenger’s gamble worked, as Gibbs scored just four minutes after coming on the pitch, but it could hardly have been expected as the 26 year-old had only ever scored one other League goal in his eight years at the Emirates! An inspired choice, but then again Wenger really didn’t have any other options!