Arsenal's squad is well prepared for their match against Brentford and has an extremely strong foundation. Mikel Arteta has stuck by the core of his team throughout and even Gabriel Jesus' injury over the winter didn't derail them.
Now, with three extra first team players added in January and the gradual return of Emile Smith Rowe and Jesus himself, the Gunners are showing signs of true depth. Matt Turner has impressed in his few rotation appearances, Takehiro Tomiyasu was a starting fullback last season and Kieran Tierney is still just 25.
In midfield Jorginho is a different type of player to Thomas Partey but still offers plenty to Arteta and Leandro Trossard has looked lively in his first few games. These players have shown genuine, strong back-up characteristics with many more than capable of deputising when needed.
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Even at centre-back there are now more options. Although Rob Holding is primarily a cup defender Gabriel Magalhaes has formed a formidable partnership with William Saliba at the heart of the backline. Their coming together has been symptomatic of the success this term.
Ben White, previously deemed a centre-back, could provide cover in that spot but now Jakub Kiwior has joined there is additional room for flexibility should Arteta deem it necessary. Such is the rise of the two starting options though, they have been ranked amongst the best in the league this season.
Saliba has drawn comparisons with Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand throughout the campaign and has taken to life in England seamlessly since making his debut just seven months earlier. Now, when asked about the best centre-halves in the league, Ferdinand himself has weighed in.
Speaking to Vibe with FIVE he stated that Lisandro Martinez of United is currently the best. It was then put to him which of the two Arsenal defenders was having the superior season. "I think Saliba has been better than Gabriel," he replied.
Few would argue with that but together their partnership has become rock solid. With two goals apiece they have also kept six clean sheets together. "Saliba is a unit bruv, he’s about 6ft 3ins, 6ft 4ins," Ferdinand continued, in awe of the physical presence at the back.
Having been beaten by a goal from a set-piece against Everton it will have been frustrating to come away from Merseyside with nothing but Brentford offers a new chance to respond. With Kiwior waiting in the wings there is also a chance that the Polish defender's very presence pushes on Gabriel and Saliba to even better levels.
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