Broken Gunner: Just What Has Happened To Arsenal's Marouane Chamakh?

When Moroccan striker Marouane Chamakh finally arrived at the Emirates in May 2010, after months of speculation and rumours, a surge of relief entered the Arsenal community. Manager Arsene Wenger had secure the services of a strong, imposing striker who added vital depth to the Arsenal front line.

Chamakh's transition from Girodins de Bordeaux to Arsenal had been highly beneficial for the Gunners. The Moroccan captain had arrived on a free transfer and would instill much needed size, strength and physicality to the North London giants.

The 2009/2010 campaign had seen injury expose the severe lack of depth to the Arsenal striking range which posed a big threat to Wenger's ambitions to diminish Arsenal's notorious five-year trophy drought.

Critics touted Chamakh to thrive in the Premier League and Wenger had been a keen admirer of the lanky forward. As 2010/2011 beckoned, Arsenal once again had an injury hit front line thanks to the 2010 World Cup, with Robin van Persie and Nicklas Bendtner both succumbing to injuries before the commencement of the season.

This ensured Chamakh was forced to start as the lone striker throughout August, September, October and November. Fortunately, the Moroccan lived up to his hype conveying an efficient, hard working, physical striker who was not over awed by the English Premier League.

Ten goals in the opening months of the campaign instantly made the Moroccan international a fan favourite. Chamakh's form and contribution were impressive and greatly appreciated as the Gunners awaited the returns of van Persie and Bendtner.

However, come December the return of the latter ensured a fully fit, compacted forward line and with Robin van Persie back in the fray, Wenger opted for the experience and renowned skill of the Dutchman. Chamakh's appearances and playing time began to diminish with the Moroccan claiming he was burned out.

Wenger admitted Chamakh's early season work load ensured the 27-year-old was in need of a rest. This went largely unnoticed as the incredible form of Robin van Persie assured the lack of Chamakh's presence.

However, as Arsenal endured a shock 1-1 draw against League One outfit Leyton Orient in the FA Cup, Chamakh received a rare start and fans and critics alike were shocked to see the lack of confidence that has struck the once prolific striker.

Having enjoyed almost a month's rest, Chamakh continues to look off the pace which looms a worry with Arsenal needing all the form possible to conquer not only the EPL but the UEFA Champions League and Carling Cup final.

Whether the question is over the Moroccan's fitness or his lack of confidence remains to be seen, but the Arsenal faithful have been left contemplating just what has happened to Marouane Chamakh.