Ray Parlour believes Arsenal need ‘massive, massive surgery’ at the back following Unai Emery’s side 3-2 loss to Southampton yesterday afternoon.
Despite a brace from Henrikh Mkhitaryan as they fought back twice from going behind against the Saints, the Gunners tasted their first defeat since August 18th thanks to a late headed goal from Charlie Austin which ended their 22-game unbeaten run in all competitions.
Emery is short of options in defence following injuries to Rob Holding and Shkodran Mustafi, and the Spaniard had to rely on a makeshift defence yesterday.
Defensive frailties were once again highlighted, and Parlour says it remains the club’s biggest problem – adding Emery will need at least two transfer windows to rectify the issue:
Speaking on Alan Brazil’s Sport Breakfast on talkSPORT, the former Gunner said:
“They’ve got to sort that defence out, Arsenal. I think, you know, Emery’s 22 games unbeaten, it was a great run, it was always going to come to an end.
“I think Arsenal will look at their defence and say well we do need massive, massive surgery in that defence. I always say you’ve got to give him a couple of transfer windows, Emery, I think he’s done so well as a manager, I think the progress from Arsenal has been excellent, but they’ve still got to buy a few more, better quality players at the back.”
While new defensive recruits are needed in January, Emery has doubts over signing such players next month, claiming there is not a lot of possibilities out there for the Gunners to explore – despite being linked with several in recent weeks.
