Don’t mention the war!!!

The 3 country battle for a centre back berth brings back memories of Basil Fawlty’s famous quote: ‘Germany vs Belgium vs France to control the defence, along with Poland hoping to stand firm behind the eventual winners.

The BFG vs The Verminator vs Kos!!!

The case for the defence:

Per Mertesacker:

Brought in after the disaster at Old Trafford, ‘die Abwehrlatte’ (the Defence Pole) is known as having a quiet but effective game. By his own admission, he says he has had to improve quickly to adapt to the demands of the Premier League and admits the added physicality is new to him. Often criticised for lacking pace, Per is more suited alongside a quicker, more mobile partner and seems to be getting up to speed with the demands of the Premier League. With his height and aerial prowess, he would be the perfect foil alongside either TV5 or Kos.

Thomas Vermaelen:

Following TV5’s transfer from Ajax in summer ’09, Thomas set about 45 impressive games which set him as the main stay of the defence. Season 10/11 was a right off, as injury deprived Arsenal of, probably, the best CB in the league. Now on the comeback trail, he has again started impressively with 2 clean sheets and what seems to be an instant understanding with both of the other 2 protagonists.

Laurent Koscielny:

Now in his second season at The Emirates, initially, Kos’ arrival raised a lot of eyebrows . Many saw £8.5 million as a high price for a player seen as a French League journeyman. His first season went from the sublime to the ridiculous;

From having Messi in his back pocket in the 2-1 win over Barça to the unfortunate affair with Wojciech Szcz?sny, which ultimately extended the now famous trophy drought. Now in his second season with Arsenal, Laurent has begun to show an impressive reading of the game and has become a reliable rock in the centre of the defence.

Arsene has a decision to make, 3 international CB’s all with the ability and credentials to follow in the footsteps of Adams, Bould and Keown.

As an Arsenal fan, it’s a good dilemma to have.

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