Arsenal

Wenger Set To Disappoint Arsenal Fans Once More This Summer

Arsene Wenger does not believe that Arsenal need to buy new players to strengthen his side defensively. He maintains that although Arsenal’s defence does need improving from last year, new additions will not be needed to help the issue.

Wenger bel…

by
DBSFootball
July 15, 2011

Wenger believes the return of Thomas Vermaelen will make a big difference to Arsenal’s solidity at the back, and the problem lies with the poor defending from set-pieces. The Arsenal manager said:

“I don’t think we are weak defensively, but we are an offensive team. Sometimes that exposes our defenders a bit more than other teams.”

“I believe we have quality defenders. One is Thomas Vermaelen and he did not play last year. In open play, we were one of the better defences [last season], but we conceded too many goals on set-pieces and that is where we want to improve this season.”

Arsenal conceded the most goals inside the top four in the Premier League last season, with 43 goals being fired past Sczcesny, Almunia and Fabianski. Despite being linked strongly to several defenders including Bolton’s Gary Cahill, Blackburn’s Chris Samba and Werder Bremen’s Per Mertesacker, it now doesn’t look like Wenger will listen to loud cries from sections of Arsenal fans and pundits to invest in another top quality defender.

It is understandable that Wenger has renewed confidence in his defence now that Thomas Vermaelen is back in action, but the problem remains with the possibility of injuries. The addition of Charlton’s Carl Jenkinson to the Arsenal side isn’t exactly a signing which will inspire immediate confidence into Arsenal fans, who may be worried that if the injuries strike again, Wenger will have few top class options to call on to step in.

It is a big risk for Wenger, but if next season proves to be successful, no Arsenal fans will be complaining.