Quote Originally Posted by SWv2 View Post
None of us know what the manager is asking him to do.

The fact that Wenger appears unable to create a sustainable functioning midfield hints at issues beyond the personnel.

One could argue the most functional and mutually beneficial partnership he has had in a decade or so was one that he arrived upon by complete and utter fluke as opposed to design and player management.

We can go round in circles all we want on midfield, then defence probably and have individual opinion on player’s ability and partnerships, I think the issue still comes down to the man at the top.

Chris Coleman at Wales was able to tactically take advantage of Ramsey’s strengths as a player and harness them into him being one of the reported stand out performers at the Euros, yet the same player comes back to N5 and many then argue he has no clue how to play.
Yes, Coleman had the advantage of not having anybody better. Ramsey was allowed to play further forward where he is generally more effective/less dangerous.

I am in complete agreement re where the problem lies. We all know it. However, within that context I think when you look at the quality of players the midfield is where suffer. Nobody doubts that we have two decent strikers, and two decent players in Sanchez and Ozil. Not a lot wrong with our first choice centre backs or full backs, and our goalkeeper is ok unless you give away a penalty.

It is in that central midfield where we genuinely lack the right quality and balance. I dont think anyone would honestly describe Elneny as a world beater and Xhaka has put in some shocking performances..... that leaves the good (Jack), the bad (Ramsey) and the ugly (Cazorla, who is dead).

Put anyone in charge and they need to sign a midfielder......