Is a new midfielder really needed?
Posted by Young'un in Arsenal | 26 October 2008
The News of the World today claims that Arsenal will make a move for long-term target, Yaya Toure in January. I am a huge admirer of the Barcelona midfielder, and anyone who saw his performances against Manchester United in Europe last year will agree that he is a top quality player. Many pundits, and many Arsenal fans (myself included) pointed out the lack of presence, and a real ball winner in the middle of the park. Yaya can provide just that. I wrote an article a few weeks back about getting Stephen Appiah, but the deal came to nothing. But after recent performances I'm beginning to wonder if another midfielder is really needed.
The team were simply brilliant on Tuesday night in Turkey. Some tremendous football on show, and the 5 man midfield Wenger opten for worked a treat. I have also said in the past how important Abou Diaby is, and my point was proved when the Frenchman turned in a man of the match performance against Fenerbahce. The surprising thing though was that he was very advanced; most of the time he was used 'in the hole'; as a supporting striker for Adebayor. I still feel that he can impress next to Fabregas in a simple 4-4-2 formation as well, though. But despite thoroughly impressing in midweek, Diaby was left on the bench this afternoon, with Alex Song moving into the middle to partner Cesc. And he may struggle to get back in the team. Song has recieved a lot of criticism in the past, but judging by today's performance, he could be the answer. He worked hard for the team, won tackles with ease and looked comfortable brining the ball forward to start attacks. Despite his size, he was very strong and was able to hold players off the ball. With Ramsey scoring on Tuesday as well, Denilson improving game-by-game and Bischoff gaining fitness, we do have options in midfield, and while I really like Yaya, I'm not sure if we'd be better off saving £8 million.
And finally, a thank you to all the readers. Your comments are much appreciated, so please keep them coming
Comments
Song's 6 foot tall! Hardly a short arse!
I really don't rate Song, must be just me then.
Is he really? Well shows how much I know ;-) he's just always looked short to me, strange considering he was partnering little Cesc Fabregas. What don't you like about him, Spike? I never was his biggest fan but I thought he had a top game this afternoon. He's a different type of player to what we currently have, almost Makelele-like.
I really thought Song would be the natural one to replace Flamini, but he just seems way too lethargic and he gives possesion away too cheaply, but maybe Im being dead harsh and he could well come good, then again maybe Diaby will be the fella for that role?
I do know what you mean, we've seen exactly that before. But since the ANC, he's been a different player. I wouldn't say you're being "dead harsh" but give credit where its due, he was solid today. I have confidence he will come good; I'd say over 90% of those who have a slow start go on to become great under Wenger (Edu, Gilberto, Lauren, Pires, Henry, Adebayor and Walcott - none of them set the world alight at first but when given time, they became, or will become, huge players for the team). As you say, it could become Diaby's role, but he was SO impressive on Tuesday night behind the striker, you can't help but feel he'll be given more chances in that position.
Although I'd still like a new dmf I'd be happy with song in there
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