Arsenal Vs Chelsea: Combined Starting Eleven

John Terry

It hurts my soul to admit him into any starting XI with Arsenal men, but given that Shkodran Mustafi has not yet achieved consistency in this brand new world, there really is no other option. At the very least, I have found consolation in moving Terry to the other side in the partnership, just to inconvenience him in the slightest.

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All that out of the way, Terry is a tremendous defender and it’s a testament to his still-prevalent ability as well as his dedication to the team and leadership that he was kept on for another year when it looked certain that the Blues were going to let their fearless captain go.

Say what you will about his character flaws and intensity, but when it comes to classic, no-nonsense defenders, you couldn’t do much better than Terry. His skill is only out-shined by his longevity, as it is pretty clear that even in his advanced age, he has not suffered all-that much in his ability to shut down opposing strikers.

That being said, he is not the captain of this combined XI. Because I have too much pride for that. Anyway, on to Terry’s center back mate.