Paul Merson’s latest comments about Francis Coquelin may not go down well with the Arsenal faithful.
The former Arsenal favourite believes the Gunners cannot win the Premier League title with the 24-year-old French midfielder providing cover for the back four.
Coquelin emerged as one of Arsenal’s better performers in the second half of last season after being recalled from his loan spell at Charlton. The Frenchman has since become a fan favourite and added a bit more bite and steel into the Arsenal midfield, with the fans calling on Arsene Wenger to stick with him for the upcoming campaign.
But Arsenal are being linked with a surprise move for Sergio Busquets, and Merson insists it would be ‘massive’ signing for the club, one which will see the Gunners mount a serious challenge this season:
‘Arsenal will not win the title with just Coquelin in the defensive midfield role.
‘They are talking about them putting in a bid for Busquets – that would be a massive signing.
‘Arsenal need an experienced player, especially when you get to the latter stages of the Champions League. You’ve got to remember that Coquelin was on loan last season at Charlton Athletic – now he is on the Arsenal team sheet.’
Can Arsenal win the title with Coquelin playing in the defensive midfield role this season?
Merson comments are a bit harsh, but I do get what he’s trying to say.
As much as I like Coquelin, I do believe he lacks experience, and we do need someone to come in to offer help, as well as challenge, the Frenchman for his position.
Someone like Busquets would of course be ideal, but it’s not a transfer that is likely to go through this summer.
