The Young Guns of Arsenal

After the breathtaking football that thrashed a full strength Wigan 3-0 in the Carling Cup, the world is convinced of the talent in the young guns of Arsenal. However, who among the young ones would become full blown Gunners?

Fabianski has come a long way after the 5-1 reversal by Tottenham in the Carling Cup last season. Although still suspected at crosses into the box, his reflex saves are reminiscence of Alex Manninger in his prime. His 2 reflex saves in the Wigan match, particularly against the red hot Zaki, served to remind us of how good he can be. At the moment, none of the other contenders (namely Vito Mannone or Szczesny) for the goalkeeping job measures up to Fabianski. Of course, with Almunia still at a young age for goalkeeper and the possibility of Wenger adding a more season campaigner if a right price appears, Fabianski needs to be patience and grab all the chances given to him to succeed at Arsenal.

There is a lot of talent in the full back department to burst into the first team. Gavin Hoyte, Kieran Gibbs, Kerrea Gilbert and Armand Traore are snapping at the heels of first team players of Clichy, Eboue and Sagna. It should only be highlighted that the first team players are also on the right side of 25. In addition to the established fullbacks, Wenger also had the penchant to play Toure, Djourou or even Gallas as emergency fullbacks when required.

So, which young gun would be able to break into the starting eleven? My best bets are Hoyte and Traore. Justin’s younger brother Gavin has displayed great determination and leadership in his many years at Arsenal. He is captain of the reserves and has also led the Under 18s in this time there. Combined with speed, agility and courage, this 18 year old Englishman is a real asset that should not be sold. On the left side of the defence, Traore has been knocking on the door like forever. Only the form and determination of Gael Clichy has managed to keep the skillful youngster out of the first team. Faced with 2 talented full back, Wenger sent Traore on loan to gain valuable playing time and experience. Watch Armand as he would come back stronger than ever to challenge Clichy for the spot.

Our aging center backs are an invitation for the young guns to step up. Sad to say, I can only see Djourou making the step up at the moment. Djourou is the tallest centre back that we have at the moment. He is strong in the air and can pass out of defence. With valuable experience gained with his time at Birmingham, he is the only viable replacement for old guards of Gallas and Silvestre. If Toure stays fit, I dare say that Djourou would complement him and together, we would have a very mean pairing as our last line of defence.

In midfield, I can see a whole bunch of kids challenging our already very young midfield for starting places. However, 2 of them really stand out for a variety of reasons. Jack Wilshere has already been labeled the new Liam Brady. The kid is quick and turns fast. He can pass and he is strong on the ball. With good dribbling skills, he has already managed to squeeze past defenders and opened his Arsenal account. He is so good that he won the Man of the Match against Wigan last Wednesday! The funny thing is that he is not of a legal age to drink his prize! (Champagne)

Aaron Ramsey is another one for the future or some say next season. With his Wales background and rugby playing experience, he has added bite into an otherwise ‘soft’ midfield. The 18 year old can tackle, can pass, can cross and is really strong on the ball. Shades of Vieira come into mind when he is marauding up the field into enemy’s territory and in time to come, I am very sure that Wenger’s payment of 5 million for a kid will be a very valuable investment.

With the current crop of strikers vying for limited space, it would take a real gem to break into the first team among the likes of Adebayor, Robin Van Persie, Eduardo, Bendtner and Walcott. Out of the mist and onto the stage, Carlos Vela provided a timely reminder of Wenger’s talent in scouting young talent. Already dubbed the new Maradona, Vela gained a bigger reputation for himself by proving himself in the La Liga with Osasuna over 3 seasons. He gamely built on that with a hat-trick against Sheffield United and a brilliant flicker over Kirkland in the Carling Cup tie against Wigan. It will suffice to say that Wenger would have a hard time keeping our front players happy for this season and next. Vela would definitely add to this problem with a sparkling run in the Carling Cup.
In summary, the young guns are ready! On their day, they have proven to be more of a match for anyone. Would Wenger be brave enough to throw some into big matches? On account of their performance, I dare say some are already ready to step up. Go Gunners!!!