Arsenal: Security does not come in the shape Per Mertesacker

Former Arsenal striker Paul Mariner has stated that he wants security, in the form of Per Mertesacker, at heart of the Gunners’ defence. Unfortunately, Per no longer offers security.

Arsenal have kept just three clean sheets so far this season. One of these came against League One Doncaster Rovers on Wednesday night, and another was against Bournemouth, who have scored just three Premier League goals all season and won just one game. The other, though, was against Chelsea in a resolute and disciplined performance that should be praised. But that has been an anomaly.

Related Story: Arsenal: Predicted FIFA 18 player ratings

In fact, in seven games in all competitions, the Gunners have conceded 10 goals; in just five league games, they have conceded eight goals, including three against Leicester City and four against Liverpool. They have been far from a picture of defensive solidarity and resilience.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

• 3 observations from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park
• 3 standout players from 1-0 victory over Everton
• 3 positives & negatives from Goodison Park victory
• Arsenal vs PSV preview: Prediction, team news & lineups
• 3 talking points from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park

And it has led to some to call for changes to be made to the line-up. Former Arsenal striker Paul Mariner, speaking after the draw to Chelsea – it is a little odd that he chose to make such comments in the aftermath of the best defensive display of the season thus far –, stated that he wanted security at the heart of his defence, and then naming Per Mertesacker as the bringer and instigator of that security:

"“I want security at the back. There might be some eyebrows raised about Koscielny and Mertesacker. Mertesacker maybe they think ‘oh he’s past it’ but when they play together, he plays with his brain Mertesacker, he doesn’t get exposed. We’ve seen him in big, big games that everybody says ‘oh he’s going to get run over’, he doesn’t get run over. He uses his intelligence.”"

Now, I do not disagree that having a secure defence is good thing to pursue and implement; it would be difficult to find any right-minded football fan who does not want their team to be secure at the back. But to suggest that Mertesacker brings that simply doesn’t stack up.

While he is unquestionably an experienced and knowledgeable defender who is a benefit to have available as a reserve option and can step in when needed if injuries and suspensions hit, to have him start for an extended period on a consistent basis will see him, and, subsequently, the Arsenal defence, exposed.

Even when playing at the heart of a three, Mertesacker’s lack of pace, if he is called upon, will be exploited by opposing attackers. The game is only getting faster, and not only in its pace. It is played at a greater intensity, it is played with a greater combination of guile and athleticism, and Mertesacker is only getting older.

Next: Arsenal Vs West Brom: Predicted starting XI

Having the German in the squad is a wonderful blessing; having him in the starting line-up would be a detriment. Security, ultimately, is the aim, but, for the most part, the process at which it is achieved does not, or at least should not, include Mertesacker.