In response to the open-mic, this is my 'all-time' greatest line-up for the team I support, Arsenal.
The reason 'all-time' is in quotation marks is that I have only included players who I have seen play for Arsenal. As a result I have overlooked greats such as Brady, George, Nicholas, Bastin, Rocastle, Wilson, Jennings, McLintock, Graham, O'Leary, etc...
I think that despite their stature within Arsenal folklore, it would be a bit fickle of me to put them in my team without ever seeing them play.
The formation I have selected is a traditional 4-4-2.
Manager: Naturally, my choice is Arsene Wenger. Despite being a supporter throughout George Graham's successful reign, Wenger has taken Arsenal to a higher level. His spell in charge has been Arsenal's most successful ever.
He has not only revolutionised the club, but he has played a part in revolutionising the English professional game. His management methods have become almost gospel-like throughout the Premier League and his trophy haul is second only to Sir Alex Ferguson.
Goalkeeper: David Seaman. In my opinion, the greatest goalkeeper ever. He might have made a few high profile mistakes during his career, but these were only high profile because they were his only mistakes.
He was a calming influence, in which his defence always had full confidence. His shot-stopping ability was second to none and his ability to hold onto the ball was second to none. He also pulled off the greatest save ever against Sheffield United in the FA Cup semi-final during his final season at the club.
Left Back: At times, Arsenal have had an embarrassment of riches at left back. All have been able to not only defend exceptionally, but also attack with style and panache. Nigel Winterburn is my choice.
He provided the original mould for what Wenger wanted his left backs to play like. He was defensively, the strongest Arsenal have had during my time as a supporter, and he developed his attacking game under Wenger's stewardship. He was part of the famous 'Arsenal back four.'
Centre Back: In my opinion, the club's greatest ever player, Tony Adams. He was Mr. Arsenal and he put his heart and soul into every match. He is one of England's greatest ever defenders.
Under Wenger he improved from not only possessing top-class defensive ability, but matured into a composed centre back who could begin attacks from the back. His goal against Everton to seal the clubs first ever Premier League trophy, was an iconic moment, and one which aptly befitted Adams.
Centre Back: Not many players ever dare to cross the North London divide between Tottenham and Arsenal, only few have done so throughout the years, but arguably, none have done it as successfully as Sol Campbell. His presence in the Arsenal defense was an extremely important asset throughout their title triumphs of 2002 and 2004.
He was a born leader, and formed a key component of the spine of Arsenal's 'Invinicibles.' He provided a massive goal scoring threat from set-pieces, and like Adams, possessed natural top-class defensive ability, which was also groomed into Campbell becoming a more cultured centre back.
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