Who Should Deputize Alexandre Song When He Goes to the African Nations?

Alexandre Song was easily the most criticized Arsenal midfielder during Arsenal's poor season in 2008/2009. Early lackluster performances enabled the Arsenal fans to slag off the Cameroonian. But 2009/2010 has seen the 22-year-old become a mature defensive midfielder who is playing superb football.

His physicality and strength have meant opposing midfield attacks are immediately shredded. Arsenal have lacked a central defensive midfielder since the departure of Patrick Vieira in 2005, but Song looks to have covered that loss.

Unfortunately for Arsenal the inform midfielder departs in January to participate in the African Nations Cup with Cameroon. This brings the question who should deputize for him whilst he is away? Arsene Wenger has insisted Samir Nasri will not, so who should it be?

Abou Diaby

The lanky Frenchman is blessed with height and physique and was thought to be the next Patrick Vieira. Although he has began playing a more attacking role, playing him in the defensive role during Song's absence wouldn't be a bad option.

He is capable of being a very strong defender and his height would be more than useful.

Denilson

Denilson was in and out of the defensive midfielder role last season. Although he lacks the strength of Song and Diaby he is still capable of portraying the "invisible wall."

Denilson is known to perform vital defensive tasks without receiving credit. Although the Brazilian is more preffered in an attacking role he is a credible option.

Aaron Ramsey

The talented Welsh teenage is fulfilling his potential this season and with Song out of action during January this could be a great opportunity to stamp his foot down on a starting birth. The former Cardiff midfielder has shown glimpses of great talent this season and thanks to his childhood rugby games, the Wales international lacks nothing in physicality.

Francis Coquelin

The French teenage ,who is touted as the next Vieira/Makelele, has only featured in the League Cup since joining the Gunners from Laval last season. However, it is evident the teenager has a huge future and is certainly capable of fulfilling Song's role.

Experience can only strengthen the youngster's growth so there would be no harm in giving Coquelin a chance.

Mark Randall

Not quite on the fringe of first team football but currently a cup starter. The Englishman is also a suitable option. Randall is a young, strong, quick, and intelligent midfielder who has potential to be the next big thing. Although he may seek a loan move in January, playing Randall in Song's absence also wouldn't hurt.

Emmanuel Frimpong

Yet to make his first team debut for the Gunners, Frimpong is definitely one for the future. The teenage is also tipped as the next Vieira with his strength and intelligence. Although it may be a little early to gift him Premiership experience, it could work.

Kieran Gibbs

Although primarily a left back Gibbs has played a heavy amount of football as a central midfielder. His strength, pace and calmness allow hims to be a strong defender and his