Mikel Arteta is certainly having to delve deep into his Arsenal squad right now, ending the 2-2 draw against Liverpool with an entirely new back line.
Arsenal ended up with Thomas Partey at right-back, Ben White and Jakub Kiwior in the middle and Myles Lewis-Skelly on the left.
Partey and White were excellent throughout, justifying Arteta’s selection, two players who didn’t appear at all out of position.
Kiwior struggled for Arsenal, but he did have an unenviable task in replacing Gabriel Magalhaes.
Gabriel injured his left knee in the draw at the Emirates Stadium, an issue which will require a scan to determine its severity.
Arsenal aren’t quite down to their bare bones, but it’s certainly heading in that direction.
Micah Richards agrees that Arsenal need a striker to support Kai Havertz
Speaking on ‘The Rest is Football’ podcast, Alan Shearer assessed Arsenal’s squad depth right now after the Liverpool game.
And although he was confident that the Gunners were mostly well equipped, he did spot one signing which would benefit Arsenal, something Micah Richards agreed with.
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Shearer said: “They’ve got a big enough squad. I mean, having said that, when you’re missing your best centre-half, when you’re missing probably your most creative player, they’ve had to do without Saka for a couple of games.
“I think they’re alright, you know, and maybe in a centre-forward position [they’re lacking], but I mean, Havertz has had a really good start to the season.
“When he’s not in there I’d perhaps think oh, okay. But in other positions they’re relatively strong, you know, that even today, when they’ve got one, two or three out, still had a strong team to put out.”
Richards replied: “Yeah, I would agree with that. I think as well, it’s how adaptable Arsenal are.”
Richards then discussed how Gabriel Jesus wasn’t contributing enough in terms of goal threat before sharing his conclusion.
“So I do agree with Alan, in terms of maybe another forward, just to help him out and relieve some of that pressure off Havertz.”
Gabriel Jesus deserves one more big chance at Arsenal
Of course, Gabriel Jesus was once again used as a late sub against Liverpool on Sunday, and the Brazilian looked lively in his cameo.
It would be a surprise if Jesus didn’t start against Preston North End in the EFL Cup this week – an opportunity he won’t enjoy being limited to, but one he needs to take.
Although not everyone will agree, there seemingly still is enough in Jesus’ performances to suggest that he can turn things around.
Jesus nearly scored a stunning winner against Liverpool, jinking past one or two defenders before forcing Caoimhin Kelleher into a save.
An interesting debate, and one that will only intensify once January comes around.
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