Building on Firm Foundations

Consider for a moment the impressive strength of Arsenal at the back. The consistent brilliance of Jens Lehmann in goal. Emmanuel Eboue, whose extraordinary composure belies his age, just 23. The magnificent central partnership of Kolo Toure, still only 25, and William Gallas, a world class 29 year old – with the Swiss pairing of Philippe Senderos (21) and Johan Djourou (19) waiting in the wings. And Gael Clichy, now thankfully recovered from injury and, in the view of several good judges, destined to be a far better player than Ashley Cole.

When you add that lot up, you really do begin to question the competence and judgement of a minority of journalists who have suggested that Arsenal are not as strong at the back as they used to be.