Time For Others To Shine

With 4 games left to go, it’s time for Wenger to rediscover his team. Arsenal need to win the remaining games to set the tone for next season. But considering the opponents the slightly weaker opponents, it is also a time for Wenger to rediscover his team. A chance to test certain players in new positions or in their original positions. Toure’s transformation from a bit part player to a full fledged center half comes to mind.

Diaby’ returns for league action after being suspended for the read card at Bolton. He was bought for his all round display in the center of midfield. It’s a good oppourtunity for him to show his prowess and provides Wenger with another option should Flamini really decides to leave. His ball control and attacking instincts should serve him well but tackling would be one area which he needs improvement.

Song surely deserves another shot at the center back option or if not could be asked to perform his duties as Flamini/Gilberto’s replacement. It would not be alien surroundings for him as it was in this position which he excelled for Cameroon during the African Nation’s Cup. Tackling would not be an issue for him and there’s already an improvement in his passing and ball control.

Giving Lehman the respect he deserves by slotting him in goal for the last few games would be nice given that he seemed to be dead set to be leaving this summer but Fabianski should be given a shot between the posts. The Polish stopper has been quiet since his arrival but on the few appearances for Arsenal, he looked solid enough and gives ample commands to the defenders in front of him.

It’s time for Adebayor to take a rest and let Bendtner play. The young Danish has shown at international level that he has goals in him and there’s no reason why he can’t score on a permanent basis for Arsenal. He is strong in headers and makes good runs. His first touch is actually pretty good but the lack of playing time reduces that effect. Given a chance, this one will grow into a very good player.

Last but not least, several players from the reserves also can be introduced with next season in mind. The likes of Mark Randall, Nacer Barazite, Rhys Murphy and even the 16-year-old Luke Freeman should get a taste of Premiership football.

That said, the changes should not be at the expense of a league win.