Arsenal Squad 2009-2010 Assessment. Part 1.

The wait is nearly over, from Monday 13 July, the squad will begin to work more intensely with the ball and the identity of play which will be employed for the season. I will give an assessment of the squad, goalkeepers first, defenders second, midfield third and finally strikers. Any new acquisitions will be addressed at the close of the market in September.

GoalKeepers.

1. Manuel Almunia. The current number 1, his third season as a regular beckons. He thrived in his first as he had Jens Lehmann breathing down his neck, his second he had little competition, and despite being a very good goalkeeper, unless Fabianski applies intense pressure, he may slip into a comfort mode. Last season he made the difference between more goals being scored, showing he understands the destiny of the team are in his hands, he also had bad errors though like Ronaldo-Bentley.

21. Lukasz Fabianski. He needs to really step up this term and aim to relegate Almunia to the bench and keep him there. To do that, he needs to calm down and realise the destiny of the team is in his hands, this he never did last season where he appeared casual and suicidal in the chances given to him. A place in the Poland squad is up for stake, so he needs to step his game up. A classic case of an able deputy is Juventus, Buffon was injured, Manninger played with distinction many thought he should have played more games, we need this from our Pole.

24. Vito Mannone. A number 3, i do not think he will get many chances, he isn't ready to hold the destiny of the team in his hands that affects results. The most he can hope for is Reserve team football and the Carling Cup.

Verdict: Almunia has a possible England place to play for, Fabianski has to perform to get a place in the Poland 2010 squad, between these two, if they play towards these objectives, Arsenal can have some inspirational performances, just like Lehmann who realised this reality in 2005 to become Germany Number 1 in 2006.