danmartiChelsea tend to heavily favour attacking the Left, which means a more defensive Arsenal Right Back, or even a Centre Back would be appropriate. As Arshavin is reluctant to track back Denilson can provide support against the Cole/Malouda axis of attack.
Should they plan (as last season) to hit Arsenal on the counter a 4 man midfield can serve the purpose of breaking up counterattacks through the centre. The Left Hand side Song/Gibbs/Djourou triangle can dominate the left defensive area.
The Diamond provides strong ball retention while on the left, the left back can provide attacking width (supported by Nasri with his direct running and movement). Arshavin or Vela will provide natural width on the right, looking to cross or cut in from the right, while Chamakh in a traditional Target Man role can face the Chelsea centre backs in the air, using his aerial strength to shoot or win balls for the players cutting in from the wings and midfield.
Finally the long range shooting of Denilson from midfield can be used to draw defenders up the pitch and allow the wing runners and Chamakh more room to operate.
01.10.2010
danmartiSorry. My title should have been Proposed Arsenal Formation vs Chelsea
01.10.2010
nvrIs Koscielny quick enough for that kind of role? Playing against Malouda is not the easiest of tasks and I'd rather have a natural right back there.
01.10.2010
danmartiWell it's possible you're right. I just thought we might want some more defensive solidity as Arsenal's fullbacks like to get forward, but it's probably a judgement call and I'm sure Sagna could be instructed to limit his flank runs. He has looked defensively shaky the last few games though.
01.10.2010
