Former Gunner Paul Merson has thrown his two cents about the rumoured transfer of Jamie Vardy to Arsenal, and it’s not a positive one at all.
In case you are unaware, Arsenal have triggered the England international’s £20 million release clause, but the forward is yet to confirm whether or not he will leave Leicester City for the North London club.
Despite firing in 24 goals and spearheading Leicester City to the Premier League title last season, the Emirates faithful remain divided on whether Vardy is the right man for the Gunners, and if he will even suit Arsenal’s style of play.
But while Merson is an admirer of Vardy, the Sky Sports pundit is shocked to see his former club make a move for the pacey striker:
‘I’m shocked. I’m absolutely flabbergasted with it.
‘Arsenal don’t get the ball forward quick enough for Jamie Vardy. No disrespect, but he plays at Leicester where everyone goes and has a go at them.
‘Twenty of his goals must have been over the top, balls that he is running on to, beat the goalie and great finish. You play for Arsenal, you kick off and the other team sit ten men behind the ball.’
He finished off by saying:
‘Leicester suits Jamie Vardy, in my opinion. He is perfect for them. They play his way, they get the ball forward very quickly and he will keep on causing havoc. If he goes to Arsenal, I just don’t see it.
“That is no disrespect to him. I’m not saying he won’t get goals but I don’t think he will get enough opportunities [at Arsenal]. They take too long to get the ball forward.’
Many will agree with Merson’s assumptions on Vardy’s style of play. However, some of the Emirates faithful will disagree and argue that the striker could do even better with the likes of Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez and Santi Cazorla providing him with opportunities at goal. Yes, Vardy does like to run onto the ball, but who’s to say he won’t do this at Arsenal?
