Arsenal: Brutal Charlie Nicholas Cull Utterly Necessary

Charlie Nicholas has stated that Arsenal should sell five or six players this summer. His brutal cull may seem harsh but it is wholly necessary.

The season has tailed off badly somewhat for Arsenal. After a blistering start to the year, in which Arsene Wenger’s side demolished the likes of Chelsea and Ludogrets in truly exhilarating displays, they have been unable to replicate the same success, both in terms of results and their performances.

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However, a series of disappointing results since the turn of the year has seen them embarrassed and humiliated in a 10-2 Champions League exit; their title hopes scuppered, primarily thanks to two lacklustre losses to Watford and Chelsea in succession; and their chances of a top-four place plummet.

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As such, many of their players, and Wenger himself, have come under great scrutiny for their sub-par displays. And now, as the summer transfer window looms, there are suggestions from the media that they would be wise in selling many of the current members of the squad. Former Gooner Charlie Nicholas, speaking as a Sky Spots pundit, stated that he would like to see five or six players sold:

"“They have to get these big things sorted before they can do anything. I’d like to see five or six sold and then go in after some statement signings. I would sell David Ospina and bring in Joe Hart to get a bit of aggressive British attitude back in the side and then sort out the midfield by getting rid of Francis Coquelin and, if Bayern are as interested as I read, try to recoup the money spent on Granit Xhaka.”"

While his individual assessment of the players may seem harsh, there is a reason for his comments. Arsenal have been underperforming at the crunch time of seasons for many many years. So much so that it is now time for change, and definitive change.

Many would argue that the change that is needed is Wenger. However, it could be equally suggested that it is the players that are letting their manager down. While Wenger should not be exempt from criticism, the narrative amid the fanbase and the media has devolved the players of blame, shifting it onto Wenger.

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However, if change does not come in the summer, then major questions should and will be asked. Wenger must, even it challenges his base philosophies, be active in this summer’s transfer window, especially when selling.