Chelsea vs. Arsenal: Thomas Vermaelen Will Help Fix Gunners' Defensive Problems

Arsenal center back Thomas Vermaelan has been battling injuries for much of the past year or so, and may play against Chelsea on Saturday at Stamford Bridge.

Vermaelan came out of the squad for the midweek Carling Cup match against Bolton, but that was due to a cramp and not an injury.

Despite not being able to train much since recovering from his injury, Vermaelan may have to start as several key Arsenal defenders nursing injuries.

Right back Bacary Sagna is still out, and his replacement Carl Jenkinson is nursing a knee injury, with his status for Saturday uncertain.

Teammate and wingback Kieran Gibbs will not play against Chelsea because of a stomach muscle injury, leaving the Gunners thin on defense.

Vermaelan is capable of playing a wingback position in addition to center back, and he might find himself on the wing at Stamford Bridge.

Not only is Vermaelan a quality defender, he is a leader on the pitch. He will be able to sort out the problems the Arsenal defense is having, and make sure the team's defensive positioning is good.

The Gunners have been giving opposing teams way too many scoring chances, and with Vermaelan holding his teammates accountable, they Gunners will certainly improve.

Thomas Vermaelan is Arsenal's best defensive player, and there isn't a better stage for him to return than Saturday at Stamford Bridge, with Arsenal looking to continue their winning ways.