Jack Wilshere
Wenger - Wilshere will not fill Song gap
- Bould and Banfield join first-team staff
- 'I know I have some big boots to fill’
- Banfield - New role is a dream come true
- ‘Steve and I share same coaching philosophy’
- Pictures of the Season 2011/12 - Part Three
- Top 20 Most Liked
By Chris Harris
Arsène Wenger will NOT ask Jack Wilshere to fill Alex Song's boots on Tuesday night.
The Cameroon international has been ruled out of the second leg of Arsenal's Champions League tie with Barcelona after failing to shrug off a knee problem, leaving Wenger with a substantial gap to fill as his team defends a slender 2-1 advantage in the Nou Camp.
Song has emerged as a powerful defensive force in the past two years, curbing his own attacking instincts to offer protection to the back four. Wilshere is arguably the most versatile midfielder at Wenger’s disposal but he is not a candidate to replace Song.
"[That role is suited] more to Diaby or Denilson," said Wenger. "We will not want to keep Wilshere in a purely defensive role. [How to replace Song] is one of the things to sort out."
Denilson started the 0-0 draw with Sunderland on Saturday and was criticised by some sections of the Emirates crowd before he was replaced by Marouane Chamakh with 22 minutes left. Wenger admits the Brazilian was below-par but insists he has much to offer.
"It wasn't one of his best performances but I feel that Deni doesn't get the credit he deserves and he always works hard for the team," said the manager.
"It was difficult for the midfielders on Saturday because they marked us very tight and we only found space in the last 20 minutes. He had given a lot."
[Monday, March 07, 2011]
More Arsenal News
-
Thu, May 24, 2012
'I know I have some big boots to fill’ -
Thu, May 24, 2012
‘Steve and I share same coaching philosophy’ -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Banfield - New role is a dream come true -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Bould and Banfield join first-team staff -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Bould - This shows strength of youth set-up -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Pictures of the Season 2011/12 - Part Four -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Kitchee FC on the verge of historic treble -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Player of the Season - Last chance to vote! -
Thu, May 24, 2012
Season Review 2011/12 - FA Cup -
Wed, May 23, 2012
'Premier League is as good as it's ever been'
