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Last season, alongside the defence, the Arsenal midfield suffered heavy criticism for being unable to be dominant defenders, handle physicality, and failing to keep consistency.
This season, it's another story. The Arsenal midfield has displayed some superb defending and attacking performances, and are looking like a whole different bunch of players that took to the field last season.
The attack is what is blossoming for their mid-men. Playing fast, exciting, one touch football has ensured more chances and more goals are created. Also, the defensive side of the midfield has improved thanks to mostly the efforts of Alexandre Song. So how do you rate the Arsenal midfielders so far?
Alexandre Song: 8
Last season the Cameroon midfielder suffered the most criticism out of any of the Arsenal midfielders. But come this season, Song is a completely different player who carries the defensive role of the Arsenal midfield.
He is a vital part of the Arsenal midfield, constantly chopping down opposing midfield threats and also tracking back tremendously, relieving pressure on his back four.
A superb effort so far.
Francis Coquelin: N/A
Only limited chances in the League Cup, but it is evident he has massive potential to be the next big defensive midfielder.
Craig Eastmond: N/A
Made his debut this season and was not to shabby. Another teenage with a big future.
Abou Diaby: 7
An awful start to the season which resulted in fans calling for his head. But the lanky Frenchmen worked hard and is finally beginning to find his feet, keep fit, and hopefully play the football fans know he is capable of.
Denilson: 6
An injury was sadly bestowed on him early on, and he has not featured since September. Fortunately he is due back after the international break and will look to continue the unsung hero role in the midfield.
Mark Randall: N/A
Some strong contributions in the League Cup, but you feel he should be out on loan.
Aaron Ramsey: 7
The Welshman has matured a bunch and is now looking to break into the first team. There is a hint of Fabregas about his style, and the youngster has a huge future ahead of him.
Samir Nasri: 6.5
Was struck down with injury before the season began, but made a strong comeback reminding the footballing world how talented and dangerous he really is.
Tomas Rosicky: 7
A enjoyable and successful return for the Czech after being on the sideline for over a year. Looks to be close to that quick, dangerous, and intelligent midfield every one witnessed a couple of years ago.
Theo Walcott: N/A
Injury has forced the pacey Englishman to miss a heap of games for the Gunners, but in the limited chances whe he was fit, we witnessed how devastating he can be.
Andrei Arshavin: 7
The Russian magican has been a constant thorn in opposition defences. Swift movement and smart play has seen him score some highly impressive goals.
Jack Wilshere: N/A
In a few games for the teenage prodigy we were gifted a few glimpses of what to expect of this huge talent.
Fran Merida: 6.5
Signed a long-term deal and finally looks to be breaking onto the bench. The young Spaniard scored a phenomenal goal in the League Cup and also showed glimpses of Fabregas/Arshavin like play.
Nacer Barazite: N/A
Very limited opportunity, and I feel Wenger may be hampering his development.
Cesc Fabregas: 9
The Captain has been a incredible leader and a influential in Arsenal's early dominance. He scored sensational goals, set up sensational goals,and lead terrifically. Quite frankly he the best.
Loaners
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas: 6.5
The teenager has been an impressive force whilst away with Blackpool. Has great strength, pace an power and could feature in the Arsenal League Cup run.
Henri Lansbury: 6.5
Has shown he is a talented midfielder. Scored a couple of goals, and is playing creative, easy on the eye football.
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