The team I’d pick to face Reading
266 comments March 3rd, 2007
Given our numerous injury problems, this is the side I’d pick to face this year’s surprise European contenders: Reading.
The main issues of contention are Diaby at left-midfield, and Theo Walcott upfront. I think Diaby would provide a lot more attacking momentum than Freddie, and could come inside allowing Gael Clichy to attack on the overlap. Furthermore, his height would help counter Reading’s strength at set pieces.
Walcott, meanwhile, is more of a wild card. He’s never yet started upfront for Arsenal, but a spate of injuries and suspensions mean he is our only striker beyond Aliadiere and Baptista. I didn’t think Aliadiere offered too much in midweek, and whilst Reading’s defenders are extremely good in the air, they’re perhaps not the quickest – Walcott’s pace could cause them problems.
Regardless of what I think, I’m sure Arsene will start with Freddie and Jeremie, and he has his reasons. Reading, meanwhile, could go with five at the back as they did at Old Trafford.
It could be a long day.
