In the run-up to the January transfer window, we’ve heard a lot of news about potential out-going loan deals involving Arsenal’s strikers. Yaya Sanogo, the hapless Frenchman who’s struggled in front of goal when he has played, has been linked with a temporary move to Ligue 1 side Bordeaux.
Then there’s Lukas Podolski, Arsenal’s striker/winger, who just so happens to have one of the best strike-rates at the club. He’s been especially impressive in the Champions League. In 5 appearances in Europe this season, he’s found the back of the net 3 times. That’s 44 minutes per goal.
Unfortunately, he hasn’t had much of a look-in in the Premier League, making only 7 appearances. As Arsenal fans will know, he hasn’t been sitting quietly, bidding his time and waiting for an opportunity to prove himself. He’s been agitating whenever possible, especially when he’s been away on international duty.
Given his usually sunny disposition, the German ace must be really frustrated if he feels the need to speak out.
This leads me onto The Metro‘s claim that Lukas Podolski could be loaned out to Inter Milan for the rest of this season. This would strike me as a strange piece of business for The Gunners.
I can understand what Inter Milan get out of it: they get one of the best finishers in world football. What do Arsenal get out of it? It’s not like they need to loan him out so he can get experience. He’s 29-years-old now. These should be the best years of his playing career.
It’s not like he’s lacking in confidence either. After all, he’s still absolutely sensational in front of goal.
What if Arsenal lose Alexis Sanchez or Danny Welbeck to injury? There is a route into Arsenal’s first team for Lukas Podolski, he just needs to be patient. More importantly, he needs to work harder during games. He needs to track back, make tackles, hassle defenders and do the essentials. He can’t just be the man who applies the finish. He has to be more than that.
This is what it comes down to: Arsene Wenger either needs to back his man, or sell him. Any other solution is just treading water.
What’s your take? Is Arsene Wenger right to send Lukas Podolski to Inter Milan?
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