After facing a large chunk of their season without any regular full-backs, Arsene Wenger must be somewhat relieved that he now has some flexibility in this area. Bacary Sagna managed to slot back into his right-back position (in truth it looks like he never left – he’s so assured, both defensively and offensively) and Carl Jenkinson is working his way back to full fitness. Over on the left Kieran Gibbs has been putting in shifts and has impressed going forward but shown a little naivety when it comes to his defensive duties.
This brings me to the return to fitness of Andre Santos. The Brazilian full-back made an appearance for the reserves last week and may well be back in contention as Arsenal’s season begins to wind down. This raises the question: who does Arsene Wenger plump for – Santos or Gibbs?
It strikes me that these players are pretty similar in terms of what they offer. They’re both fairly attacking minded. Gibbs has shown a willingness to get forward, cut inside and lay the ball off. His willingness to get up and support the attack has been a big help to the Gunner’s over the last few weeks as they’ve finally managed to turn the corner and turn their offensive dominance into wins.
In terms of his defensive duties he still has a lot to learn from the likes of Bacary Sagna. Just take Ben Arfa’s goal during the Newcastle game last Monday. Vermaelen gave the ball away and Kieran Gibbs didn’t head out wide to put the pressure on Ben Arfa who was able to cut in and fire past Szczesny.
Sadly, Santos isn’t much better defensively (though he did show signs of improvement before his injury). What’s impressive about the Brazilian is his ability to work tight spaces, get past people and tee people up. He’s not exactly pacey, but his big frame and his nimble feet can combine to help him beat his man.
I’d personally like to see Santos eased back into the position with a view to giving him a starting role should he not continue to develop. He just seems more assured on the ball (something Gibbs will surely develop over the time) less nervous and more potent going forward. Yes he has to work on his defensive duties, but as Gibbs also has his work cut out in this area, I’d argue that’s a moot point.
What’s your take? Who’s Arsenal’s first choice left-back?
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I think Santos has much more to offer going forward than Gibbs.
Santos also have goals in him but need to improve his defensive duties,but I think Santos is better.
I thought u wanted someone 2 answer ur question,bt it seems 2 me u’ve already have ur choice(santos).pls change the heading 2 ‘andre santos should be arsenal’s 1st choice left-back’.
Santos better than gibbs
I think Kieran Gibbs
Santos is the best left back for arsenal
I think both of them are under-rated defensively, sure they’re not always in position but Santos is good in 1v1’s and will often nick the ball away before the opponent can control it, Gibbs is a lot better aerially than most LBs too, which in this team is a massive help.
i love the bot by santos
Gibbs is the better option because of his pace and ability to create quick counter attacks.
Love Gibbo but right now Santos all the way, I mean what’s he got left at the top level, is it 1/2 years? Gibbs will start & play longterm eventually, but he could do with the lack of pressure that has had Theo sweating for the past several years.
Szczeny, Gibbo, Jack, Frimpong, Lansbury, Chambo & Theo. Arsenal DNA.
Santos is better and more experince.
Santos is better and more experince. I pick santos.
They are both good and have exceptional qualities, I think the choice will be boil down to the type of opponent they will be facing. On a general note I will go with Gibbs.
Santos is d answer