Arsenal FC Transfer Prospects: What Should Arsene Wenger Do with Kieran Gibbs?

Arsenal's 3-1 defeat to Stoke City signified the exact point that the Gunners could no longer sufficiently challenge for the English Premier League title, despite many already considering Arsene Wenger's men's season as futile, the loss ensured any lingering hope was crushed and Arsenal's tumultuous season will officially end without the satisfaction of silverware for the sixth successive season.

The loss also provide deputy left back Kieran Gibbs with a rare start, after veteran Gael Clichy suffered a hamstring complaint before the match. It was the English international's 18th appearance of the season for the Gunners but only his second Premier League start in what was a game to forget for the 21 year old at the conclusion of another disappointing season.

Primarily a midfielder, equally adept in the centre and on the wings, however Wenger transformed the former Wimbledon youth into a left back when Gibbs began to emerge on the first team scene. The youngster busted onto the world football stage during the latter half of the 2008/2009 when Gael Clichy sustained a back injury. Gibbs enjoyed a strong period as the main left back, finishing the season with 21 appearances and conveying huge promise for the future.

2009/2010 saw Gibbs endure a severe metatarsal injury in November that kept him absent for the remainder of the season, restricting the left back to just 7 appearances. However an impressive pre-season resulted in Gibbs receiving a call up to the national England team in August but the Three Lions left back has seen little success since.

Wenger has been tentative to utilize his young Englishman with Gael Clichy the established left back. The French defender has over 250 appearances for the North London giants and is one of the few leaders in a young Arsenal squad. Despite this, the 25 year old has been increasingly impressive or dominant as the Arsenal left back with errors a creeping part of the French dynamo's game.

Gibbs has been forced to seek playing time in domestic Cup competitions with 10 of his 18 appearances this season coming from either the League of FA Cup. His efforts against Stoke was by no means convincing. Out-muscled and caught out of position on many occasions, Gibbs evoked a player lacking confidence and consistent playing time.

Clichy, on the other hand, is currently in the midst of contract negotiations with Wenger. The former Cannes full back is reportedly being chased by a number of big name sides including Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Juventus. Clichy's future is uncertain at the Emirates but should the Frenchman depart it could provide Gibbs with a prime opportunity to regain his rapid development.

But is the Englishman good enough to be the Arsenal first choice left back.

Many fans and critics alike have voiced their frustration at seeing Gibbs at left back as many believe he can thrive in the midfield, but Wenger is less inclined to make this transition due to the large array of midfield talent the Frenchman has at his disposal.

A number of left backs have also been linked to the Emirates in case Clichy does depart. Everton's Leighton Baines, who many believe is one of the best left backs in the Premier League, is a strong candidate whose arrival could also decrease Gibbs chances.

Furthermore, Wenger has two specialist young left backs returning from strong loan spells next season. Pedro Botelho, whose visa issues have forced the Brazilian to spend the last three seasons on loan, has enjoyed a stellar stint with Spanish Segunda side Cartagena, making over 35 appearances this term and has shown great skill and defensive prowess.

The 21 year old is set to finally be allowed a work permit next season and is expected to head straight into the Arsenal first team. Armand Traore, who has 30 Arsenal appearances to his name, alongside 28 for Portsmouth, where he spent time on loan in 2008/2009, is a solid prospect who has overcome injury woes with Italian giants Juventus after falling out favour at Arsenal.

The Frenchman has the ability to be a useful deputy left back and is ideal for Cup competitions. The return of the loan due could allow Gibbs to spend 2011/2012 on loan in the EPL in order to gain sufficient experience and consistent playing time which will help raise his status.

However, Wenger may prefer to have Gibbs at his disposal in case injuries occur. But will Gibbs be content with warming the benches until injuries materialize?

It is a difficult situation for Arsene Wenger, but just what should the boss do with Kieran Gibbs?