Everton vs Arsenal: What kind of an impact will Mertesacker’s return have on Arsenal? by SE
Per Mertesacker is an odds-on favorite to return to action for Arsenal when they visit Goodison Park this Saturday. The lanky German would replace Calum Chambers at the heart of Arsenal’s defence, and will be a welcome inclusion for Wenger, who, despite the returning German, has a couple of team selection issues to address. Sticking with Mertesacker, though, what kind of an impact can he have on Arsenal, with his return to action?
As we’re looking into the game against Everton, over the weekend, the linkup between Mertesacker and Koscielny would be a relieving one for Arsenal and Wenger. Not to be negative of Chambers, but there have been instances during his stint with Arsenal, in Mertesacker’s absence, where he has looked vulnerable and a tad hasty in his decision making, which saw Dzeko dance past him at the Wembley and, the other day at Istanbul, when Demba Ba ran through on goal. Mertesacker’s return will be a calming influence on the Arsenal backline.
Will Everton cause set-piece headaches for Arsenal?
The towering presence of the German should make sure that there are no defensive mishaps, while defending set-pieces, akin to Hangeland’s header at the Emirates last weekend. In Everton’s case, Sylvain Distin and Lukaku look to be the only personnel, who could get anywhere close to the height of Mertesacker. That, consequently, should prove to be the threat for Arsenal, if at all any, in defending set-pieces. Mertesacker’s presence would also mean that Arsenal harness dead-ball situations of their own, which could prove crucial in the end analysis of the game.
What does Mertesacker render Arsenal?
The Center-Back partnership of Mertesacker and Koscielny, ever since they have got together at Arsenal, has been one of the highlights of the Premier League. They both combine and complement each other every well, and Arsenal, more importantly, fares well when these two stride out on to the pitch.
But, the first game back after a layoff is always going to be a question mark on any professional Footballer, and Mertesacker should be up for the challenge.
Summary
Mertesacker can be the commander-in-chief for Arsenal, who surely have missed that authoritative persona in their lineup during the German’s absence.
Suhith