Arsenal: Aaron Ramsey showing his quality in Mesut Özil's absence

Aaron Ramsey’s recent performances for Arsenal have been impressive, but is this down to them not having Mesut Özil in the team?

There is no other player who splits Arsenal’s fanbase more than Aaron Ramsey. However, his past performances make it hard to argue against him.

His last three appearances have been nothing short of tremendous. He is rediscovering his form and is displaying similar performances to what he produces for Wales.

Aaron Ramsey’s recent performances

His performance against Bournemouth was decent as he picked up an assist in a 3-0 routing. Although he only played 67 minutes, his impact was felt when he was on the pitch.

Ramsey followed up this performance with an even better one against Chelsea, as the Gunners picked up their first points at Stamford Bridge since 2011. He was named man of the match and nearly won the game for Arsenal, as he went on a sensational run weaving through defenders but could not finish as he hit the post.

In their most recent Premier League game against West Brom, Ramsey was brilliant. He started in a more advanced role at right wing. He was not directly involved in any of the goals but did win a penalty that led to Alexandre Lacazette finishing as they won 2-0.

More freedom

After Liverpool smashed Arsenal 4-0, Ramsey came under lots of criticism due to him being caught out of his midfield position. Against Bournemouth, he did not need to have a lot of discipline which allowed him to advance forward.

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He contributed to the defensive side more against Chelsea than he did against Bournemouth and Liverpool. A big factor in the Chelsea game was that Mesut Özil was out. This meant Alex Iwobi started on the right wing.

Iwobi has a better work rate than Özil, which allowed Ramsey to venture forward. He controlled the game well against a good Chelsea midfield featuring N’Golo Kanté and Cesc Fàbregas.

Without Özil again against West Brom, Ramsey started in a slightly unfamiliar right wing position. The front three of Ramsey, Lacazette, and Sánchez ran the show, with quick movement and passing.

Ramsey may not be on the same level as Özil in terms of creativeness, but when he is given a license to get forward he’s exceptional. Özil will return to the team soon, which means Ramsey will have to drop into his midfield role.

With Brighton next in the League, they need to put together another convincing performance. Ramsey can get forward in this game as Arsenal will control the possession similar to the Bournemouth game. However, he needs to still stay disciplined when they play better opposition.

Lots of options if Özil leaves

Rumors have been circulating that Mesut Özil will run down his contract and join Manchester United. Whether this is true or not, he still hasn’t signed a new contract, and he can begin to talk to teams as soon as January.

If Özil does leave this will give Ramsey more opportunities to play in more advanced roles. Arsenal also have the option to sign someone like Thomas Lemar or Julian Draxler to replace Özil. This would most likely mean Ramsey would continue his partnership with Granit Xhaka.

Either way, Ramsey has been impressive in both positions. His form at the tail end of last season and his form in his past few games gives Gooners hope that he can become world class.

Ramsey future captain?

Wenger has said recently he believes Ramsey will become a captain at Arsenal. Although he might not have the same intensity as Vieria did, he has been at the club for ages.

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Wenger is saying this at the right time, as this will hopefully give Ramsey more confidence and he will continue his excellent performances. Ramsey is the x-factor this season, as Arsenal are chasing top four and looking to return to the Champions League.

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Arsenal: Aaron Ramsey showing his quality in Mesut Özil’s absence

By Chauncy Voorhies | Sep 28, 2017