The TWO most important developments for Arsenal this summer:

Of all the Arsenal-related news stories to arise during the transfer window, one of the most promising had nothing to do with any potential signing. I’m referring to Arsene Wenger’s claims that both Jack Wilshere and Bacary Sagna are close to returning to action.

Sky Sports are running with the following Wenger quote: “After the international break they should not be too far away from training.” That sounds pretty promising.

I think we’ve under-estimated exactly how important these players are to the team. They both have a solid claim to being one of the best players in their position currently plying their trade in the Premier League.

Bacary Sagna, Arsenal’s first-choice right-back has featured in numerous Premier League teams of the year. Whilst the Gunner’s defence is notoriously brittle, Sagna has earned a reputation for being ‘Mr. Consistent’. He’s just so reliable. He rarely makes mistakes defensively, is a difficult man to beat and loves to support the attack too. His crosses into the area are an underrated part of his game.

I’ll never forget the thumping header he scored against Spurs whilst Arsenal were 2-0 down last season. It was a genuine turning point in the Gunner’s season. Arsenal would start moving up the table as Tottenham began to move down it. Suffice to say, he’s a really important member of this team. Whilst Carl Jenkinson has done a good job filling in, he’s not ready for the big time just yet.

Then there’s Wilshere. What can we say about the young Englishman that hasn’t already been said? He’s one of the most naturally gifted footballers in the Premier League and a big part of Arsenal and England’s future. He’s been out for over a year now and how the Gunners have missed his presence.

It’s hard to imagine an Arsenal side with Wilshere in tow flopping to two 0-0 draws in their opening games of the season. His flair, creativity and tenacity will always fashion chances, no matter how tight the game is. Arsenal need that at the moment.

Following the exit of Robin Van Persie, both Sagna and Wilshere have climbed up the table of Arsenal’s most important players. Wenger won’t want to rush them back, but I’m sure most fans are waiting with baited breath for their return.

What’s your take? Just how important are Sagna and Wilshere to Arsenal’s season?

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