Gilberto: “Midfield is my natural position”
182 comments March 20th, 2007
There’s been a lot of talk recently about Arsene’s decision to play Gilberto at centre-half ahead of the likes of Kolo Toure, Philippe Senderos, and Johan Djourou. Well, it seems the big Brazilian himself is not enjoying the experiment:
“I have had to play central defence recently, that has been hard for me because it has been a long time since I played there. But I have to do it because of injuries and suspensions.“
However, Gilberto reckons it’s not a long term ploy:
“I would expect that for the next game at Liverpool I will be back into my midfield role. I would rather be playing there because it is my natural position.”
Like I said yesterday, I imagine that when Adebayor returns we might well go to a 4-5-1 with Gilberto in the holding role. This would also allow Rosicky and probably Ljungberg to play off Ade, with Baptista and Aliadiere banished to the bench.
Perhaps that would help turn performances into points. William Gallas is unpopular with some because of his outspoken nature, but I’d rather hear someone give an honest assessment as an antidote you Wenger’s usual “great spirit” spiel. Gallas says:
“To play pretty football is good for fans to watch. However, I’m sorry, I prefer to hear ‘Well done, you won’ than when someone says ‘You were unlucky, you played well’. Winning is everything. You have to win.”
I have to say, I couldn’t agree more. As a season ticket holder, I’m in a decent position to say that I’d rather go and see a side than won every week than a side that played “pretty football” but got less points.
Jens Lehmann has denied any contact with Hertha Berlin:
“I have not spoken to anybody in Berlin, I can promise you that.”
Ah. He’s probably just spoken to people in Munich, then.
As far as replacing him goes, Craig Gordon (whose obviously unhappy at Hearts) has been dropping hints about wanting to join Arsenal. I have to say, either he or Artur Boruc of Celtic would be great long-term options.
And finally, pity poor Jose Reyes – so desperate to leave us this Summer, he now finds himself without anywhere to go. Shame.
