His best friend, Robin van Persie, leaving Arsenal, his form slipping and then being assigned captaincy, 2012 was a tough year for Thomas Vermaelen even if a dream came true becoming the Gunners' skipper. With some inconsistent performances, 2013 was about to get harder for the Belgian as his poor performances inevitably got him dropped — despite being captain.
While the performances of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker in defense have been reassuring, there have been talks that Vermaelen could leave for Barcelona. While some fans would be okay with that, given his form, Vermaelen is still a really good player when he's at the top of his game and losing another captain will not only continue an annoyingly growing trend but wouldn't provide continuity at the club.
Hence, many have suggested moving the Belgian forward as a defensive midfielder as it would suit his game and give him some game-time. If it's successful, not only will Arsenal have good back-up in that position for Mikel Arteta — who is currently injured — but it could provide a successor for the Spaniard as well, given how little faith, manager Arsene Wenger has put in Francis Coquelin. But is it feasible?
It's a move that has suited Chelsea's David Luiz well — and Vermaelen certainly has the tools to be a defensive midfielder; energetic, aggressive and strong, he could add steel in Arsenal's midfield.
Known for his attacking exploits, Vermaelen's even stopped going forward in recent months, leaving the defense less exposed so it could work. Helping his case, the Belgian is a ball playing defender predominantly and so, could distribute the ball efficiently in midfield as well.
However, his positioning isn't all that great and is one aspect he would certainly need to work on, especially if he is being converted into a defensive midfielder where such an aspect is crucial.
Should Vermaelen fill in for Arteta in Arsenal's crucial game against Newcastle United? No. It is too big a game for experiments. But testing the Belgian in that role should definitely be tried out during preseason as it could work, and who knows? Maybe even becoming a masterstroke of a move.
Via: Abidal will be announced this Thursday that will leave the Club in June
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