Wenger’s Wrath: 3 Arsenal players who should be dropped

1. Nacho Monreal

A run on the bench on the cards?

Since Gibbs’ injury, though, Monreal has been given an extended run in the team. Despite having impressed during the early stages of this run, Monreal has become somewhat of a liability for the Gunners in recent games. He will be concerned about his World Cup place with his recent form, especially if Arsene drops him.

Gibbs showed top quality on numerous occasions early on this season and deserves to get his place back. Statistically, both Monreal and Gibbs are very similar. Gibbs has a better aerial success rate whilst Monreal is narrowly more successful with his take ons. Gibbs though has been improving with each game he has played; giving him another spell in the side at Monreal’s expense would be something worth considering for Arsene Wenger.

2. Mesut Ozil

Ozil underperforming in the big games?

Whilst many have been given breaks from the starting eleven, it seems a player cannot be dropped due to him having cost £42 million. The fact is, Ozil has not been good enough recently. He needs to realise his place in the side is not guaranteed; it may see his effort on the field increase.

Whilst being statistically one of the most creative players in the Premier League this season, Ozil has looked lethargic since the turn of the year. He is rarely changing the pace of the game – something he can do with devastating effect at his best. His last goal for the Gunners came on the 8th of December, and he has looked nervous in front of goal since.

Who can replace him? Tomas Rosicky deserves to come back into the frame. Not only does he have a good final ball, he adds a bit of urgency, something Arsenal miss massively with the likes of Walcott and Ramsey out injured. Without runners in behind, like Walcott and Ramsey, the effect Ozil can have on a game becomes massively reduced. This is especially the case with Giroud being the lone striker; Olivier holds the ball up rather than playing on the shoulder.

3. Mikel Arteta

Defensively suspect?

Whilst Arteta can be very useful at times, his performance at Anfield was extremely poor. He was lacking any aggressive edge or urgency. Although the Spaniard is normally safe in possession, during some games his defensive contribution is questionable and the duo of Flamini and Wilshere had been working well in the Spaniard’s absence in January. It may be a partnership Arsene Wenger returns to against Liverpool in the Cup.

Dropping him for the game against Manchester United may be a bit too early with Flamini still suspended, but once the Frenchman returns from his ban, Mikel could make way. This could be an area Arsene looks to address in the summer, especially with Arteta turning 32 in March.