There are currently two competing forces within the Arsenal defensive contingent.
On the one hand, there is strength in depth and competition for places, whilst on the other hand there is the injury crisis that has struck at Arsenal in recent weeks.
The Gunners’ wealth of defensive options has allowed them to largely cope with the numerous absences that Mikel Arteta has had to manage.
Equally, though, this injury crisis, which has given Arteta sleepless nights at times, has prevented the North London club from taking full advantage of their strength in depth in this part of the pitch so far this season.
For instance, as Takehiro Tomiyasu has been sidelined for the entire campaign so far, he has had no opportunity to stake his claim for a place ahead of summer signing Riccardo Calafiori. Oleksandr Zinchenko’s injury is the latest blow to Arsenal’s back line.
On top of that, Ben White has had to play through injury yet again, as he had to throughout the majority of last season, whilst Jurrien Timber was stricken with an ACL injury.
Timber has been a regular for the Gunners so far this season, though, and is clearly eager to make up for lost time.
Why impressive Jurrien Timber form is good for Ben White
Arsenal fans have been wowed by Timber in recent weeks, and as he is able to operate in any role across the defensive line he is capable of solving numerous selection problems for Arteta.
One such issue that the Dutchman can help resolve is the weight of the burden that has been placed upon White’s shoulders.
The 26-year-old right-back has had to play an awful lot of football in recent seasons, often pushing through pain barriers to make it onto the pitch.
Whilst White would be unlikely to volunteer for less game time, and would view Timber as a rival in this regard, in the long run it would likely extend his career at the highest level if Arteta were able to rest him more often.
Timber has now shown that he can stand in for White without Arsenal having to deal with a notable drop in quality.
Mikel Arteta squad plan clear at Arsenal
Eventually, Arteta will want the depth he has in his defensive positions across the pitch at Arsenal.
In order to compete with the likes of Manchester City, the Gunners will need a squad as replete with quality as that boasted by the reigning champions. In terms of their defensive contingent, Arsenal can already claim to possess such a sufficient pool of talent.
However, there is certainly an argument that the Gunners could benefit from some more quality options to call upon in more advanced roles.
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