When Laurent Koscienly posted a picture of the nasty knee injury that he picked up in the clash against Manchester City at the weekend it would have made some Arsenal wince. However, I think the injury could be a blessing in disguise for the Gunners, and here’s why.
For some time now the Frenchman has been a liability at the back. Last season he formed a formidable partnership with Per Mertesacker in the heart of the defence, but this time round we are still waiting to see the same performances.
Yes he’s put in some impressive displays, but so far there has been next to no consistency and it has cost the Gunners.
They also have a player on the bench who knows exactly how to lead a defence – Thomas Vermaelen. The Belgian has gone from hero to zero at the Emirates over the last year or so as he has struggled with injuries but in the little game time that he has been given he has looks as assured as ever.
He’s only completed one game but has been subbed on in another three and has averaged four defensive actions in each. He’s won half of his headers, won 100% of his take ons and completed 91% of his passes.
This could be the rekindling of his form and also Arsenal’s defensive stability. Or maybe I am just being naive.