Arsenal were very impressive in the first half against Galatasary, in fact they controlled the game right up until Wojciech Szczesny got himself dismissed, but there is no doubt that Sunday’s game against League leaders Chelsea will be a different kettle of fish. The Gunners will have to be much stronger at the back and the defense will need as much help as possible from the midfield.
Due to Wenger refusing to bring in a new DM in the summer and the subsequent injury to Mikel Arteta, we only have the lumbering Matthieu Flamini available to take that role, unless Wenger decides to use the ace-up-his-sleeve and take a chance on putting Abou Diaby in at the deep end against Jose Mourinho’s men.
Diaby has admitted that Wenger has proposed using him in that position when he told Arsenal.com: “The boss and I have spoken about it and it could be an option,” he said. “The boss told me he could see me playing in that position and that he thinks I have the ability to do it.
“I’ve never played there before, so it’s something new for me but I think it could be an option for the team and for myself to add something to my game.
“I have an attacking mentality so to stay back and create the link between the defence and attack is something new. I would like to get used to it, to learn how to be effective in that role if I play there, and then we will see.
“The way I see the game will be different, as will my position. I need to learn how to do that effectively.
“First of all, when you play in this position you have to be effective defensively. I would need to track back, break up play and also avoid the opponent from playing through the lines.
“For me, those are the first things. At the same time, you are always involved, you take a lot of touches and you need to make sure that you play the right passes to find strikers and midfielders in good positions.
“You need to be able to contribute to both sides of the game.”
So Wenger obviously thinks Diaby is capable of playing in the deep-lying role, but the question is; Would we be prepared to have Diaby thrown in against Chelsea in that position? Or should we stick with Flamini?