[Addick]

Originally Posted by Locke

Arsenal have to get a goalkeeper and some defenders who can actually defend.

Getting a new keeper would destroy SZCZ's development. The best reason I can think of for him keeping his spot is that as a Gunnars fan I feel something I haven't with recent keepers, safe and calm.

Originally Posted by diane_phaneuf

I do think they buy some help this summer, I imagine Cesc is gone (and at this point I don't think that will even hurt their midfield, Nasri and Wilshere can do fine) and they use the 40m quid or whatever it is to buy some CB's and maybe a midfield destroyer

they would be a better off team with the money from Cesc (if it's spent) than with Cesc in my opinion

I have actually been wondering the same thing over the last couple of weeks and especially during yesterday's match. My concern is actually 'space' within the squad. Having Nasri out wide is not the most efficient use of the left wing and it is a position where we can add a specialized player that could also add the mental steel we require. However, what worries me with Nasri replacing Cesc is that when we tried it this season Nasri didn't command as well when it was solely up to him. Maybe this is where the new experienced left winger could begin with his wisdom sharing.

Originally Posted by Locke

I agree, Cesc and RVP look really dejected and I think they have a right to be. Their attack, their midfield are all good, doing their jobs and playing well. But man oh man that defence is terrible and the goaltending is inconsistent.

I don't think this is the entire case. Arseblogger but it best when he said that if it had been Freddie on the breakaway instead of Nasri yesterday it would have been 2-1 to the Arsenal.

Originally Posted by Locke

And, while the shortcomings are massive, they are also relatively easily fixable. Go out, and buy yourself two world class CBs, spend 40 million quid, buy them, and you've got yourself a really good title challenge.

Originally Posted by Montana Moe

All I can judge is what I see on the pitch, and what I see is a team that lacks consistency, and seemingly can't handle pressure of any sort.

I have to agree with Moe. While I think we do need competent centrebacks, and the return of Vermaeleen will be like purchasing a new one, our mentality is the largest problem and it requires special attention.

Originally Posted by Locke

I didnt think there was a cash crunch at Arsenal, but people are blaming Arsenal's shortcomings as Wenger's arrogance or shortsightedness and thus his refusal to change his strategy.

I think the problem with Arsene is that he is misinterpreting the data/information/results/feedback that he is getting from his experiment. He needs someone to come along and say, "You are going in the right direction but the litmus paper used in Step 4 is actually changing colours, proceed accordingly.".

Originally Posted by Montana Moe

Djourou had been a bright spot this year, yesterday's performance was indefensible. I know Gunners fans are preaching Vermaelen as the savior, but they could certainly use more back end quality.

Like I've said above, Vermaelen's return will be like acquiring a new CB. The question is should we get another one as well? As someone who believes in Arsene's 'experiment' but acknowledges compromises will have to be made, I think we have to keep space alongside the experienced 'solutions' for young players to develop.