Arsenal sign Mikael Silvestre to replace Justin Hoyte
762 comments August 21st, 2008
Hoyte was sold for £3m. Silvestre reportedly cost just £750k.
Hoyte is primarily a right-back, where we already have potential cover in the shape of Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Eboue, and Johan Djourou. Silvestre provides reliable back-up for Gael Clichy, as well as a 6’3″ presence at centre-half.
Hoyte has never won a major trophy. Silvestre has won 4 Premier Leagues, both domestic cup competitions, and the Champions League.
When you look at it like that, this can only be a good thing.
The indisputable fact is this: the signing of Silvestre has improved a weak squad.Â
Some fans will turn their nose up at the arrival of Silvestre simply because of his links with Man U. And yet I strongly suspect these are the same people who decry Wenger’s unwillingness to sign players with Premier League experience.  If you’re signing a player from within your own division, the chances are you’ve at some point disliked them, most likely out of nothing but brutal tribalism.
It is so comforting to me to sign a player who I feel is ready to come into the side and do a job immediately if required. And to be honest, he probably won’t be required that often. He’s being signed as cover – any rumours that the transfer is designed to free up Kolo Toure to play in midfield are wide of the mark. But should Clichy, Gallas or another pick up a long-term injury, his experience could prove vital. And don’t doubt his hunger – this is a player whose turned down the opportunity of both a testimonial and a bosman in less than a years time in order to move. Â
Silvestre has inherited Pascal Cygan’s number 18 shirt, but despite being equally French, bald, and left-footed, we hope he won’t be equally rubbish.
I don’t think he will This is a sensible, low-risk signing that admittedly won’t have a major impact on the first team but adds vital depth to the squad. Now we need to add a midfield player – and he must be capable of a major impact on the first-choice XI.
Last night Arsene Wenger was in Geneva watching Gokhan Inler in action for Switzlerand. Could he be the man? We could know within a week.
Internationals last night – no news of any injuries just yet. Hopefully when RVP arrives back he’ll be doing plenty more of this.
So. Silvestre. What do you think?
