4 Striking Reasons Why Arsenal Must Secure Ivan Toney's Signature in January: Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah Fall Short, Reveals Paul Merson
Arsenal's need for a January signing becomes evident as Paul Merson suggests Ivan Toney of Brentford could be the answer, with Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus falling short Merson also offers insights on Chelsea's crucial cup tie and the high-stakes Tottenham vs Liverpool clash
Paul Merson suggests that Arsenal should consider acquiring Ivan Toney during the January transfer window, as Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah are believed to be incapable of elevating the Gunners "to the next level". Following Arsenal's 2-2 draw against Tottenham in Sunday's north London derby, both Jesus and Nketiah faced criticism for squandering significant early opportunities, which has resulted in Arsenal trailing unbeaten leaders Manchester City by four points.
Toney, who netted 20 goals in the Premier League for Brentford last season, is presently under an eight-month suspension for violating the FA's betting regulations. He will become eligible to resume playing in January. Continue reading to discover the Magic Man's perspective on the upcoming north London derby between Spurs and Liverpool, as well as what lies ahead for Chelsea.
From the start, I have consistently voiced my opinion that Eddie Nketiah is not capable of leading a Premier League-winning team. A proficient center forward is required. Although Nketiah cannot be solely blamed for the 2-2 draw against Tottenham, considering they still have 32 games left and multiple Champions League matches ahead, I do not believe he can elevate their performance to the next level. In fact, I do not think even Gabriel Jesus can achieve this feat.
I was extremely confident in Arsenal's victory on Sunday. However, upon seeing the lineup, my concerns escalated. Jesus on the wing, Nketiah leading the attack, and Fabio Vieira - I genuinely question his abilities. As if that wasn't enough, Declan Rice was substituted, and Jorginho entered the field.
Considering the numerous Champions League matches they have ahead, Arsenal's team selection appeared relatively feeble on Sunday, don't you think?
Who is available as a centre forward for them in January? Only Ivan Toney. Centre forwards are becoming a rare find worldwide.
Michael Owen was discussing the other day how different it is now compared to years ago. Back then, players like Alan Shearer, Teddy Sheringham, Robbie Fowler, Ian Wright, and Les Ferdinand could score 20 to 30 goals a season but didn't receive many England caps. However, nowadays, if you manage to reach the 20-goal mark in the Premier League, you have a chance to represent England.
Speaking of talented players, Toney is definitely a noteworthy one. He possesses the ability to hold the ball up and is impressive in the air. It might be worth considering Arsenal's interest in him. However, it's important to note that there is a scarcity of quality center forwards available.
If Arsenal faces a loss against Manchester City on October 8, they will be completely out of the running for the title as they would be trailing by seven points. Despite the statement that there are still numerous games remaining, it is futile for Arsenal to attempt to catch up to Man City even if there were 600 games left, given City's seven-point advantage. This is due to the fact that Arsenal would only have one remaining match against City, which would be an away game.
That game at the Emirates is a huge match, it's make or break already.
Arsenal
Manchester City
Sunday 8th October 4:00pm
Kick off 4:30pm
Arsenal Manchester City
Securing victory against Tottenham next week would be a monumental achievement. I'm not suggesting that Liverpool will be defeated, but facing a formidable team with exceptional players like Tottenham requires immense skill and resilience.Spurs were quite disappointing in the first 35 minutes against Arsenal. It felt like watching Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho's Spurs again. However, if Gabriel Jesus had scored for 2-0, the narrative would have been completely different. Unfortunately, he missed a glaring opportunity.
What impressed me about Tottenham thereafter was their determination to continue playing in their preferred style. They truly left a lasting impression on me.
I assumed Arsenal would secure a comfortable victory. However, for Spurs to overturn a 1-0 deficit and later a 2-1 disadvantage - typically, they would surrender and suffer defeat. Credit should be given where it's due. I found their performance to be exceptional, and I now envision them being among the top four teams.
Tottenham Hotspur
Liverpool
Saturday 30th September 5:00pm
Kick off 5:30pm
Destiny Udogie was outstanding. For him to get booked so early on in the game then go up against Bukayo Saka - one of the best wingers in the world - is some going.
Credit is due to Ange Postecoglou for expressing his trust in the individual. He acknowledged this individual as a full-back with the responsibility of defending one-on-one situations. Instead of substituting him off the field, which would prevent the risk of a red card, Postecoglou chose to keep him on. This decision proved to be wise as the individual, Udogie, successfully fulfilled his defensive duties against a formidable opponent like Saka.
In contrast, Liverpool still needs to make significant improvements. Currently, Manchester City is dominating the league and exerting immense pressure on all teams. The level of performance they are displaying is truly remarkable.
Liverpool's current success is attributed to their perseverance. Taking one game at a time is essential, and it's important not to allow their opponents to gain an early advantage.
Liverpool's strongest advantage lies in the fact that they can secure draws against Tottenham and Brighton in the upcoming weeks, considering they have two matches against Manchester City. Moreover, they have the potential to emerge victorious in both encounters against Man City.
Liverpool beating Spurs would be massive
Chelsea need the Carabao Cup more than any other team. Wednesday night's cup tie with Brighton means more to Chelsea than any of the other teams left in the tournament.
Tottenham made a mistake by fielding a weakened team in round two and getting eliminated. However, their current performance indicates that they must qualify for the Champions League. Hence, I now understand the decision to rest players.
On the other hand, Chelsea is struggling to secure a victory. Despite having a relatively easier fixture list, they have failed to perform. Newcastle, who faced tougher opponents like Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Brighton, have managed to earn four more points than Chelsea.
Chelsea's immediate priority is to avoid playing against Brighton in the cup. Glancing at Chelsea's upcoming schedule evokes concerns. The next 10 matches hold immense significance for their season, leaving one breathless. It's a stretch in which the outcome of their matches remains uncertain.
There is a significant football match on Wednesday. If they are defeated, it will be their third win in the last 24 games. One of their wins was against Luton, and their victory in future games remains uncertain. Another win was in the cup against AFC Wimbledon, which was a close call. The third win was against Bournemouth last season, but only after Bournemouth secured enough points to avoid relegation. Even Mauricio Pochettino is expressing a need for patience, acknowledging that the team is undergoing a process. When a manager admits this, it indicates a sense of unease. Pochettino himself does not believe this was the intended outcome.
If he is saying that already, it's a worry. I hope he gets that patience and time, they have injuries too. But I'm worried.
