One thing Mikel Arteta did in the summer could hand Arsenal the Premier League title, according to Tony Adams.
There are very few better qualified to talk about Arsenal’s title chances than Adams, who won four league titles with the Gunners.
The legendary centre-back remains the only player to captain a club to win the league in three different decades, telling of his influence in defence in North London.
The game has changed dramatically since Adams’ retirement in 2002 however, the one-club man reckons he’s noticed one thing that Arteta has done to get Arsenal over the line this season.
Tony Adams makes Arsenal Premier League title claim
In an interview with the Mirror, Adams was quizzed on the form of Arteta’s squad so far this season.
Naturally, the former defender was asked to share his verdict on the current back four, where he assessed new arrival Riccardo Calafiori.
Adams expressed his delight over Edu and Arteta’s decision to hire the Italian during the summer transfer window, for reasons other than his quality.
“Every time I’ve won the league title, you need three central defenders,” Adams explained.
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“Martin Keown was there for us and covered for me and Bouldy, same when Sol Campbell was there. Martin was the main man in 1998.
“You need that extra man, you can’t play in these competitions week in week out and not have backup. You’re going to dip in form and there will be injuries and Calafiori looks an exciting acquisition.”
It’s fair to say that Calafiori has Mr Arsenal’s seal of approval, which is huge praise considering the place in the club’s history that is reserved for Adams.
The four-time English top-flight winner believes that signing the Italy international could be integral to Arsenal’s bid for the league title, and the early signs would suggest that he isn’t wrong.
Riccardo Calafiori’s importance is already clear
Not only is Calafiori a top individual with a profile fit for the Premier League, but the 22-year-old adds depth and versatility that is essential to Arteta’s squad.
By simply adding both the former Serie A ace and Jurrien Timber to the side, Arteta’s defence has been replenished in a way similar to the outcome of signing four top players.
This is because of the versatility of the duo, with both able to play equally as well in central defence and as a fullback, something that the boss treasures.
Adams focused on the importance of having at least three centre-backs ready to compete week in and week out, which Arsenal now have thanks to the arrival of Calafiori, who is there to cover when needed, abolishing any qualms over defensive depth.
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