Arsène Wenger is placing his hopes of success today on the ability of Per Mertesacker. The German has to be ready for the aerial challenge of West Ham United this evening. Arsenal travel to Upton Park where they are likely to face a returning Andy Carroll.
With Koscielny starting poorly after returning from injury, Mertesacker will now look to hold his place as a central defender beside Vermaelen. Per has started the season well before picking up a virus but should be expected to start today barring a late fitness test.
Speaking about Mertesacker, Wenger said, “He has made a big leap and he came back very fit and has improved his fitness a lot. His mobility. He looks very sharp on the first day that he came back. He lost some weight. And that helps of course.”
The Arsenal manager is also an admirer of Carroll, who should make his second West Ham start today.
“I rate him, and don’t l think we have seen the best of him until now. Since I have seen him at West Ham, he looks back to the Carroll we have seen at Newcastle, that means with less pressure.”
“West Ham have a good mixture,” he said. “They can come from midfield. Diame can make a difference. Nolan is always dangerous on the second ball and Jarvis is a technical player.”
“You know your players need to be 100 per cent focused. One mistake – you can have a virtual domination and lose the game. It’s a concentration challenge as well.”
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