Last summer was probably one of the best clear outs to freshen up the squad. We have not improved vastly but the team is much better. But even before the season ends, it is already clear some players are not up to par. The team is good but not enough to win silverware. We have players who are fives and sixes who are not winning quality. I don't usually do this but it is about time.
1) Denilson
He has shown some promise here and there but he simply doesn't fit in the team well. He has scored some good long range goals but his impact on the game is very disappointing.He lacks defensive capabilities and on many occasions, pace. His short range passing game is definitely not versatile or good enough.
2) Tomas Rosicky
He arrived with such a good reputation and after scoring some screamers in the 2006 World Cup, Arsenal fans thought he would be the next Pires. He only scored a handful of goals and compounded by the misery of being 18 months out of the game, he has never lived up to his potential. Lacks defensive capabilities and does not have the pace to compensate his lack of physical presence. He has returned and played more regular football nowadays but the quality he has shown is far from expectations.
3) Manuel Almunia
Despite some heroics on a few occasion, he does not have what it takes to stand between the Arsenal goal, let alone wear the number 1 shirt. In short, too many errors by any standards and that has cost the team very dearly for the last few years.
4) Lukasz Fabianski
Also another big potential player when he arrived. Has shown amazing shot stopping capabilities. But when given the chance in cup games, he has squandered them. Although he has not played enough games to prove himself, there's little hint he is good enough after some very costly errors. Lacks the imposing figure too.
Players on the verge (Should still be given one last chance)
1)Sebastien Squillaci
He may have just arrived, but based on his performances so far I will give a 6.0. He has not improved the defensive situation much despite being at his peak and has loads of experience. His lack of BPL experience and age makes him not an attractive player to keep.
2) Nicklas Bendtner
He may have scored some good headers and a couple of impressive hattricks, but he is still very far from being a top player. Although still at 23, he has not shown enough for that age. Has admirable ability to pick out passes and being a threat in set plays, but I am still doubtful he is good enough. One more season perhaps.
3) Carlos Vela
Made a massive contribution in the Carling Cup over the last few years but nothing in the league. Needs to have a good contribution in the next season or he is out.
The list might seem short with 7 players. But imagine if those 7 players were replaced by world class players. It might not be within our budgets but the conclusion here is we need make more changes if we are going to improve.
~deyao~
