Arsenal: Mid-Season player rankings

10. Petr Cech

Jamie Carragher, after the 3-1 loss to Manchester City two weeks prior, criticised Petr Cech’s part in the first goal, claiming that he expected the Arsenal shot-stopper to save Kevin de Bruyne’s angled strike, having got a hand to the effort. While I do not necessarily agree with that assessment, Carragher did say something interesting: Cech is no longer a great goalkeeper; he is simply a good goalkeeper.

I think that is something that most would now agree with. That is not to say that Cech is a weakness of this team. His experience, his leadership, and his communication are still essential to holding together an already shaky defence. But he is not at the world-class level that he was when at Chelsea.

He has, however, still been extremely solid and reliable this season. He may not be able to save a penalty — 13 faced; 13 scored is his Arsenal record. But he is commanding of his area, authoritative from set plays, something that is unusual for an Arsenal goalkeeper, and experienced. And they, despite being less glamorous, are still extremely important traits to have.

(Andy: 9th; Josh: 12th)