Why Arsenal can’t rely on the Coq

Francis Coquelin has been a revelation at Arsenal since his return from loan, but he cannot be burdened with the defensive midfield duties on his own. Wenger has hinted at another holding midfielder joining, saying that Coquelin has earned his place in the squad, and will continue to fight for his place in the XI no matter who joins.

The boss has the right idea, as Coquelin has certainly proved his worth, but if Arsenal are to challenge on all fronts, more than one option is needed in every position. Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini with all due respect are aging and far less effective than they once were.

I suspect one or both of Flamini and Arteta will go this summer to make way for a new recruit, and Coquelin will get a proper partner in the deeper lying midfield role (seeing as how Cazorla and Wilshere and Ramsey are more comfortable higher up the pitch).

Without getting into specific names, Wenger will most likely to target a tall, strong, and quick ball winner in the middle of the park who is also good in possession. It was reported that these attributes were originally part of the boss’ laundry list when scouting for a holding midfielder and Coquelin’s emergence seemed to delay this.

It is expected Wenger will still go out and bring in a player matching these characteristics, as he should. Injury or dip in form can happen at any time, let alone suspension and anything else football throws your way. Coquelin should not be expected to shoulder all the ball winning responsibilities on his own.

What do you think gooners? Should Wenger pursue another defensive midfielder?