Do not fear Gooners, the title may suggest that Aaron Ramsey has had a setback in his return from injury and of course that would likely mean that he’s out for a ‘number of months’ if the usual Arsenal procedure was to take place. However instead of that, many will see this news as being positive rather than a reason to complain!
Aaron Ramsey picked up a thigh injury in the opening fixture of the Premier League, back in that dreadful 4-3 loss against Liverpool. After Ramsey had an exciting European Chamoionships with Wales, many were disappointed, yet not surprised, that upon returning to Arsenal that Ramsey looked like a different player than the Ramsey from the Euros. During the opening match the Welshman picked up an injury and was subsequently ruled out for around a month until he was set to return to full first team training.
Well almost a month has flown by since then and Ramsey was set to possibly make a return in this weekend’s fixture against Southampton. However the Daily Telegraph understands that Wenger may not wish to risk Ramsey this weekend in fear of aggravating the injury. It would also seem unnecessary to risk Ramsey with a starter or bench role this weekend, solely based upon the fact that we already have a number of quality midfielders available at our feet, meaning there is no need to see Ramsey rush back.
Xhaka and Cazorla will no doubt be favourites to line up in central midfield in Ramsey’s absence, however with Arsenal also set to come up against both PSG and Chelsea in the coming weeks, Wenger may feel it’s important not to risk Ramsey and instead ensure he is ready for the tougher and arguably ‘more important’ fixtures. The likes of Elneny and Coquelin will also be available for the Gunners as regular first team options.
Ramsey is expected to play a big role for the Gunners this season after being handed the number 8 shirt. Wenger is a big fan of Ramsey’s talents and has stood by the midfielder during his darker days at Arsenal, so it’s hoped that if he manages to stay fit, that Ramsey may be able to rediscover that form he found a few seasons back, when the Welshman was scoring for fun at Arsenal.
By AH