It’s been more than a little saddening to see Aaron Ramsey’s Arsenal career stutter and stop since a moment of madness from Ryan Shawcross put his entire footballing future in the balance.
Ramsey, young a sprightly, reached the ball before the Stoke defender, who didn’t back out of an ugly challenge and ended up breaking his leg in two. Fans were forced to watch as Arsenal’s talented young midfielder lay on the floor, dangling a leg that shot off at a disturbing angle above the ground.
The fact that Ramsey was able to fight back and return to fitness relatively quickly is a testament to his character. Since his return, however, he has been granted many opportunities by Arsene Wenger to find his best form. For one reason or another, however, he has always managed to look like a shadow of his former self.
He was once a player that both Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson battled it out to sign. He had slick feet, speed of thought and was an effective player. Since his injury, however, he often dwells on the ball, misplaces passes and makes bad decisions. It’s like the believe was sapped out of him.
His situation hasn’t been helped by Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger playing him out of position out on the wings. Whatever he is, he clearly isn’t a winger.
But Wenger’s experimenting has reaped some dividends. It caused him to play him in the holding role against both West Ham and Brighton, something that he’s actually been pretty damn good at.
He suddenly has more time to pick out a pass and the role seems to have re-triggered his competitive nature, convincing him to snap into tackles once more and buzz around the pitch making a nuisance of himself. The Welshman recently spoke to the official site about his new role:
“I think I’ve played well in the last two games. That’s pleasing for me and hopefully I can keep myself in the team and carry on. Hopefully I get picked for the next game.”
I’m extremely pleased to see the way that Ramsey has improved since taking this new role in the team. There are some worrying signs, however: “You always have to be wary of the hole you’re leaving behind you, but there are occasions when I can get into the box and one of the other midfielders sits.”
I just hope he doesn’t morph into a defensive midfielder of the Alex Song mould. The Cameroonian’s forays forward often left the Gunners in the lurch at the back. Ramsey needs to maintain a level of discipline. That’s how he’ll re-build his career and help Arsenal to make up the ground on their rivals.
What’s your take? Has Aaron Ramsey finally found his role in this Arsenal side?
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
Introducing the neat little app that’ll pay you to view content tailored to your interests:
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.
Ramsey is rubbish, slow, doesn’t track back, can only pass sideways, can’t tackle, has no understanding with his team mates. Watched him twice this season. Overrated
Ramsey when observed is the only time people realise how good he is,and if you watch a few highlight reels you’ll observe that he makes a clear cut chance every game,and last year he set up Gervinho for at least six one on ones but he scuffed them.Don’t down our players for the heck of it.
Yes, Ramsey has finally found himself a home in defensive midfield. His hardworking style and ability to cover enormous acres of space, as well as his ponderous game, makes him most suited to play in an anchorman role other than on the wings or in advanced midfield. He is the best candidate to succeed Mikel Arteta who’s nearing the twilight of his career.
Be fair to ramsey, please