Who could be the answer to Giroud’s prolonged absence? by SE
Call it ‘bad luck’, destiny or whatever; Giroud’s injury couldn’t have come at a more inappropriate juncture for Arsenal and Wenger, who were, crucially, looking to see off Besiktas in their Champions League playoff tie, and march into the group stage of the competition.
The Frenchman had just scored an important goal against Everton, which gave Arsenal a crucial away point at the weekend. Moments later, a viciously struck ball caught Giroud on his ankle and, albeit it looked anything but serious, has dealt a huge body blow for Arsenal, who already have a catalogue of injuries to take care of. However, from Arsenal’s perspective: Who could be the answer to Giroud’s prolonged absence?
Arsenal’s squad boasts of a number of wingers – Podolski, Walcott, Sanchez, Cazorla, Rosicky and Campbell – who have to be used in a different mould, now, given the injury to Giroud. One’s loss is another’s gain, which is no different in Giroud’s case and someone like Campbell will hope to step up; make a name for himself, and, more importantly, benefit Arsenal in the process.
This is the kind of scenario where Sanchez’s versatility could come to Arsenal’s rescue. Sanchez played as a striker in the game against Everton, albeit ineffectively. But, the Chilean, midst all other options Wenger can ponder over, would be my bet to lead the line for Arsenal, during Giroud’s prolonged absence. It’s debatable as to whether Campbell can play up top, and Sanchez could be persisted with, as a winger. But, in whatever little I’ve seen of the Costa Rican – more notably, during his magnificent showing against Benfica in the Emirates cup – he could be better off playing as a winger who runs the channels and dribbles intelligently.
The same thing can be said about Sanchez, too, but the Chilean gives you that confidence of making an impact, while leading the line.
Also, with Giroud’s injury, Wenger might have to resort to playing his old system, 4-2-3-1, and hope to get the best out of his fit personnel. Ozil, subsequently, can play in his favored No.10 position, behind Sanchez.
Final thought
As much as Giroud’s injury spells ‘trouble’ for Arsenal’s season ambitions; it just might not be all that bad, after all. Yes, it is definitely a body blow for Arsenal, but this where a big squad comes to the rescue and, Arsenal’s squad should be able to cope with Giroud’s prolonged absence.
Suhith