[Addick]

Originally Posted by Montana Moe

I don't understand Chamakh, he came out guns blazing last season. 10 goals, filled in nicely in RvP's absence, etc. Since then, he's been completely useless.

I blame Bentdner.

A lot of people, even some who’s opinion I highly respect, are blasting Chamakh for his terrible form but what do they expect from a guy who started off very well and was promptly dropped to the bench once RvP and Bentdner returned from injury. Even the best players need match experience to keep sharp and with Arsenal's formation only utilizing one striker match time for our strikers is limited. Instead of giving our new guy time when it was available, i.e. cup matches, the time was given to Bentdner. A few years ago, my cousin and I were discussing how the Bentdner Effect may have played a role in Vela’s stalled development.

I will admit Chamakh looked pretty bad last night but the man needs proper match experience before we can write him off, anything else will be too hasty. Also, people are saying that they prefer Super Nik; really? He may have scored a few key goals but the man was streaky and unreliable. At least with Chamakh you know you’ll either get the goals or frustrating dummies.