Arsenal’s current injury crisis could take them to some rather interesting places in the January transfer window. How, exactly, is Arsene Wenger supposed to counter-balance the long-term absence of players like Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta?
Yes, they can still call upon Mathieu Flamini, but there’s no doubting that The Gunners have lost a lot of battle from their midfield. Arteta isn’t the most physically imposing person in the world, but he’s an extremely smart footballer who does a good job in the holding role. He’s good at winning the ball back and maintaining possession.
With some tough tests ahead, Arsene Wenger is going to have to figure out where he’s going to find the competitive edge that his midfield currently lacks.
I’m sure you’ll have seen the recent rumours linking The Gunners to Everton star, James McCarthy. It’s taken me a while to get on board, but now I can’t help but feel that the Republic of Ireland star would be a good fit for Arsenal. Like Arteta, The Toffees star provides a decent mix of fighting spirit and technical ability. He’s good both on and off the ball, so there’s little doubt that he could do a job at The Emirates.
Unfortunately for Arsenal, Everton manager Roberto Martinez has ruled out the possibility of McCarthy leaving the club in the near future. Check out his comments:
‘James is someone that we rate very highly otherwise you would not have seen the investment we made in him. He is a typical Everton player. He has got a long-term contract. I enjoy seeing the compliments we get. We look forward to seeing him as an Everton player for a long time.’ (Source: The Metro)
It doesn’t sound good for Arsenal, does it? Still, if Arsene Wenger is serious, he should have enough cash in reserve to force Everton’s hand. Perhaps he can make Roberto Martinez an offer that he can’t refuse?
The only question is: how much should The Gunners be prepared to spend?
What’s your take? Would James McCarthy be a good fit for this Arsenal side?
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