Richard MichaelMonday debate - Should Wenger get rid of Gallas?
Arsenal's season is already on the ropes and William Gallas' recent outburst has heightened the sense of discontent at the Emirates stadium. Having stripped the international defender of the captaincy, should Arsene Wenger rid himself of the disruptive Frenchman in January?
Yes - Not only has Gallas been a destabalising influence as capatian, he has also been a destabilising presence in defence. The French international has had a poor season and has failed to show the required command as the senior figure in Arsenal’s defence. Gallas has previous in this respects. Last season he famously sat on the turf as Arsenal endured another tough game against Birmingham.
Wenger needs to reconstruct the centre of his defence and, given his tempremental attitude and waning ability, Galla sis no longer a long-term prospect. Wenger must begin the search for his replacement immediately whether that is from within the club or via the January trnsfer window. Any extra cash the Frenchman would generate would be welcome.
No - Arsenal’s defensive frailties are more accute than ever. The days of a back four cut from granite is long gone and, since the departure of Sol Campbell, Arsenal’s title ambitions have continually been undermined by a meek defence. It is staggering that Wenger has not shown more urgency in strengthening this area. Arsenal’s lack of height and stomach for a tackle, have made them vulnerable to crosses and even long throw ins - as exercised by Rory Delap - this season.
Gallas may be a bad influence, but when on his game he is still Arsenal’s best centre half. There will be few world class defenders on offer in January and Arsenal’s youngsters are not ready to step into the massive breach.
Verdict - Time for Wenger to take out the trash.
Yes - Not only has Gallas been a destabalising influence as capatian, he has also been a destabilising presence in defence. The French international has had a poor season and has failed to show the required command as the senior figure in Arsenal’s defence. Gallas has previous in this respects. Last season he famously sat on the turf as Arsenal endured another tough game against Birmingham.
Wenger needs to reconstruct the centre of his defence and, given his tempremental attitude and waning ability, Galla sis no longer a long-term prospect. Wenger must begin the search for his replacement immediately whether that is from within the club or via the January trnsfer window. Any extra cash the Frenchman would generate would be welcome.
No - Arsenal’s defensive frailties are more accute than ever. The days of a back four cut from granite is long gone and, since the departure of Sol Campbell, Arsenal’s title ambitions have continually been undermined by a meek defence. It is staggering that Wenger has not shown more urgency in strengthening this area. Arsenal’s lack of height and stomach for a tackle, have made them vulnerable to crosses and even long throw ins - as exercised by Rory Delap - this season.
Gallas may be a bad influence, but when on his game he is still Arsenal’s best centre half. There will be few world class defenders on offer in January and Arsenal’s youngsters are not ready to step into the massive breach.
Verdict - Time for Wenger to take out the trash.
