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On the face of it, Arsene Wenger's close-season transfer dealings have weakened his squad rather than enhanced it.
Having allowed Kolo Toure's genuine pace to leave, Arsenal's central defence will be more vulnerable to balls played behind them, while the lack of Emmanuel Adebayor's aerial prowess leaves the Gunners short on options should their intricate passing become nullified.
And although new centre-back Thomas Vermaelen is an intelligent player, he has yet to demonstrate he is the defensive colossus Arsenal have lacked since Sol Campbell left in 2006.
However, having watched all of their pre-season games there is cause for optimism.
Wenger is using a different system to ensure they are stronger in central midfield, with Alexandre Song playing slightly deeper behind Cesc Fabregas and either Abou Diaby, Denilson or Aaron Ramsey.
Not only have they looked harder to penetrate but they have dominated possession through their ability to combine fluently.
It has also allowed Fabregas to determine how he can maximise his attacking effectiveness.
Depending on the opposition's tactics, one game he will continue to make forward runs, the next he will find space deeper to dictate the play, with the other two players in the midfield formation adjusting their positions to compensate.
There has also been a change to their attacking formation.
In most games Robin van Persie has led the line, with Andrey Arshavin and Nicklas Bendtner playing in wider areas.
All three have looked on top of their game both as individuals and in combination.
Wenger will also be pleased with Eduardo and Jack Wilshere, who have shown their qualities as a brilliant finisher and dribbler respectively.
He also has the pace of Theo Walcott to call upon but if the young winger is to have an impact this season, he must develop more consistency.
For Arsenal to mount a challenge for the Premier League title and progress to the later stages of the Champions League, they will have to improve defensively from last term.
There have been some encouraging signs in pre-season.
The determination, organisation and athleticism to win the ball back quickly after losing possession was brilliant during the Emirates Cup and their pressing game has been well drilled and relentless.
However, two areas where Arsenal were weak last year, holding too high an offside line when opponents had time on the ball and an inability to defend set-plays, have shown signs of reappearing. They must rectify these problems.
Of course, Arsenal will need Fabregas, Arshavin and Van Persie to be at their best but it is equally vital that the younger players like Song, Denilson, Diaby, Walcott and Johan Djourou have developed considerably.
The key player for Wenger, though, will be William Gallas. The former captain performed heroically in the big matches last season but on many occasions it was his insistence to gamble on playing offside and his lack of dominance at set-plays that caused Arsenal defensive problems.
He will need to excel individually while also organising those around him if Arsenal are to win something.
If Arsenal can start with a flourish, I believe they will be in contention in all competitions but, just like two years ago, they may just fall short again.
Reader views (5)
You call yourself a fan John, your supposed to get behind the team and support. I've watched us play good stuff in pre season so we should be up for it, stop moaning.
- Aran Knowles, Romford Essex England, 13/08/2009 21:59
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The comment below is completely ridiculous and an obvious attack on our great club. Wenger is a genius, if he feels he doesn't need to replace 2 fading players by splashing the cash on anyone, then he will be proved right. It's people like John that really need to wake up and step back into reality, Football is not a soap opera, jumping from one drama to the next. We are in a fantastic position, we have a great young side, with a few experienced world class players, the best manager the club has ever seen, and in the top 2 managers in the world, in my view number 1. Be patient and be realistic, if you can't wait for a trophy, then I suggest you support man city and try the 'throwing cash in all directions' theory, good luck. I'll stick to tradition and style. IN ARSENE WE TRUST. ARSENAL!
- Luke, Manchester, 13/08/2009 18:04
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John, do you really think that Wenger stays in the job because he simply wants to make money for the shareholders? Do you really think that he doesn't want to win anything for Arsenal? Were you even an Arsenal supporter prior to Wenger's taking over?
- Microraptor, London, 13/08/2009 17:51
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I do not share Mr Robson's optimism. Wenger is devoid of ambition due to his stubborn refusal to spend money in the transfer market.His lack of signings perples me.
How can you release two key players from your squad, and not replace them?
The present squad is not strong enough or deep enough to challenge for major trophies.I think Arsenal need to change the manager, because he no longer has the desire to win trophies for the club.
Wenger is happy to make money for the shareholders, to keep them sweet while the club will eventually stagnate.
- John, london, 13/08/2009 16:54
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I agree 100%! I was at the Emirates for the two games and saw first hand the how the midfield formation had changed. What was also apparent was the flexibility of the midfielders to change position thus allowing the ball carrier more options.The forward line is very strong. In fact the other 3 in the top four would be envious of out attacking options and the pace and fluidity that it brings.However there is still a question mark with regards the defence. We need a solid no nonsense Vidic-type defender who knows absolutly nothing other than defending. Brede Hangeland fits that bill. I think Arsene will bring in someone as its glaringly obvious that we need someone like that.
- Uday Desai, Coventry UK, 13/08/2009 13:59
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