Do Denilson, Almunia, and Clichy Need To Be Dropped from the Arsenal XI?

After a dismal performance against rivals Manchester United, it is unlikely Arsenal can pose a real title threat. It was a must-win game for Arsene Wenger and his men, but, sadly, the Gunners failed to turn up at their fortress-the Emirates.

Arsenal were dominated losing 3-1 to Sir Alex Ferguson's men. Defensively, Arsenal were dreadful, constantly tormented down the flanks and through the middle. Errors and lacklustre performance from midfielders, defenders and a keeper ensured Manchester United stay in the title race whilst mathematically Arsenal can but it seems unlikely.

It's evident changes need to be made to the Arsenal XI. Although they are carrying a heavy amount of casualties, Arsene Wenger needs to ensure changes are made and Arsenal drop no more points.

A problem that's occurred constantly for Wenger since his failure to lure a talented keeper after Jens Lehmans departure in 2008. Once again, Arsenal's current first-choice keeper, Manuel Almunia, failed to perform and was at fault for the United opener.

Almunia has shown glimpses of talented and leadership but on big occasions is often to mistake prone and nervy off set pieces. The current vice captain has served Arsenal well, but with the North London side in desperate need of trophies, you feel Manuel Almunia needs to be dropped for good.

However, Arsenal do not boast stunning replacements. Lukasz Fabianksi, Arsenal's current second-string shot stopper, has potential and is still young for a keeper but the Polish international is also mistake prone and lacks sufficient decision maker. Although the former Legia Warsaw man could prove an able replacement, Arsenal fans are unclear whether he can manage.

Vito Mannone, the young Italian who recently signed a new long term contract with the Gunners, has proven he can perform and struggle. Still very young at 21, Mannone has the ability to be a great keeper but still to young to take the immense role of first choice.

The Arsenal midfield failed to perform on an offensive and defensive level. Despite good efforts from captain Cesc Fabregas and enforcer Alexandre Song, the Arsenal trio were cut apart by the devastating United attack.

Many felt it was the lack of effort from Brazilian Denilson. Denilson, who played a huge role in Arsenal 2008/2009 campaign, has struggled with injuries and the recent physicality of some sides. Denilson, at heart, is not a defensive midfielder, and compared to Alexandre Song, the 21 year old lacks a lot.

However, Denilson contributes well to the Arsenal midfield, although he receives little credit. But the samba star was made to look like a Championship player whilst on the pitch against United. Wayne Rooney capitalized on some poor defending by Denilson, scoring the second goal.

Denilson is a very talented midfield who has a huge future. Although he is more suited to Fabregas's role, the former Sao Paulo midfield can operated anywhere in the midfield. But you feel with Aaron Ramsey improving at a fast rate and Abou Diaby's fitness slowly returning. The Brazilian may struggle to make the Arsenal XI.

Gael Clichy was one who suffered tremendous torment from the United attack. United's right winger Nani caused mass headaches for the Frenchman. Clichy, who only recently returned from injury, has struggled in recent weeks against the better, stronger wingers.

The once considered "best left back in the world" is struggling to impose defensive dominance down his left side. Unfortunately highly rated left back Kieran Gibbs is injured till next season. This leaves Armand Traore as the only other available left back.

Traore, another promising youngster, received heavy criticism after his handful of games this season. There is obvious skill in the young Frenchman's game but the 20 year old is a little poor when it comes to defending. 

Do Denilson, Manuel Almunia, and Gael Clichy need to be dropped from the Arsenal XI, and can Arsene Wenger conquer up a title charge?