Alex Song has definitely matured since that fatal night at Fulham where he simply lost the plot back in 2006 Six years later he's established himself definitely good enough to don the Arsenal colours but there's always been a debate if he's "World Class" His lapses in concentration and defensive discipline is what stops that although last season his assist record was stunning (16-17). Not only in the number but some of those Hollywood passes were breathtaking Why stifle that? If it was a choice now between make him more defensive or attacking I'd go with attacking. His defensive work is good and sometimes we'll need it but why not buy M'villa or similar to play that role. I think some don't realise how big that could be for us and if he can repeat that next season with 2 new attackers added to the squad it could be a huge boot to our attack.
Although Song played well attacking wise last season, he does tend to lose concentration and positional sense defensively. To counter this, i would have him more advanced than playing as a strict DM. If we intend to get M'Villa, then Song can share/be more advanced. He just needs to form a good partnership with someone. I would be reluctant to bench Arteta, as he was an intregal player for us this season. The real issue, or a nice predicament, would be, what to do when Wilshere comes back. We can't play Song, M'Villa, Arteta, as well as Wilshere. Someone has to be benched...
Against more physical teams: M'Villa, Song, Wilshere. Against more "football" teams: Song, Arteta, Wilshere / M'Villa, Arteta, Wilshere Depending on their goal threat.
There you go. This "world class" debate, when did that take place then ?? I think you all know my views on Song but, for what its worth he is a decent squad player but no more for Arsenal.
I can't believe some people are still criticising song after his performances last season, and no he should stay in the same position next season because part of his attacking ability is the art of surprise, he is very good at keeping possession and then in some instances he can provide bits of magic to unlock a defense. Maybe he could take one less touch on the ball but at times his positional play has been outstanding, also we don't know if we re going to sign a midfielder this summer i hope we do but we don't know yet and that is vital to where song will play next season.
