Part one of the squad analysis. Bear in mind I’m not going into the depths of the youth team, as although some may get the odd run out next season, they shouldn’t be relied on, so they’re not really relevant when considering the current squad strength.
Jens Lehmann
An up and down season for the crazy German, ranging from the sublime (thatsave at Old Trafford) to the ridiculous (diving even more poorly than Drogba).
Some wanted him gone this summer, but not me. How can we lament the loss of experience last summer, and then try to offload all our elder statesmen? The same argument could apply to others, but I’ll come to that later. For now, Jens may be as mad as a brush, but he organises the defence, gives them a presence to be confident in, and most importantly, is still an excellent keeper. Beyond the Old Trafford save, one against Reading was particularly superb. He’s currently the best we have, so let him stay.
Besides, anyone who can crack me up as he did mocking Kirkland’s time-wasting deserves another year.
Manuel Almunia
Improved a lot over the past two seasons. Apparently the best keeper in training, he’s become a lot more reliable on matchday, fully contributing in big matches. Carling Cup run did him good, but with the signing of Fabianski will probably head back home to seek out first team football.
Was probably hanging around to see if he could succeed Jens, but that looks unlikely now. If he does leave this summer, it’ll be with thanks. Good man Manuel, you’ve been fine. And a wonderful juxtaposition to Jens – he is utterly unflappable.
Mart Poom
Can anyone tell me what the point of Mart Poom is? Most clubs have a first choice keeper, a backup keeper, and a youth keeper. We seem to have a third choice who is neither young, or particularly good, so what’s the point?
Poom was originally signed on loan some time back when we were struggling with keeper unavailability, but I was as surprised as anyone to see him follow that up with a permanent deal. I’m never rated him, never will, and don’t understand why someone would be happy knowing they’ll never get near the first team, at the age he is. Maybe he wanted to tell his grandkids he played for Arsenal.
Whatever it is, I’m more than happy for him to go, and have Lehmann backed by young players with promise. There’s nothing wrong with having potential as backup.
Tomorrow – our fabulous defence. Stop sniggering in the back.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.