Arsenal are set to receive a huge boost ahead of their match against Norwich City as Spanish midfielder Santi Cazorla prepares to return to action at the Emirates.
Cazorla has been injured since November last year, with his last game prior to his injury coincidentally coming against Norwich. However, the Spaniard is yet to get back to full match fitness and is unlikely to be in Wenger’s starting XI this weekend.
England international Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has also recovered from his injury. However, the 22-year-old attacking midfielder is not yet match fit, and will not be included in the Arsenal squad this weekend.
“Santi might be in the squad this weekend, I don’t know yet,” Wenger was quoted saying by Arsenal’s official website. “He is available. Everyone is available, but maybe Oxlade-Chamberlain is not competitive yet. It’s Oxlade-Chamberlain’s first week in full training now, so I don’t think I will select him this weekend.”
A near-full squad available for the Gunners
Wenger will finally be happy to see that all of his players (with the sole exception of Oxlade-Chamberlain) are fit enough to be called up to the matchday squad. However, Wenger admits that having too many options could act as a double-edged sword for managers.
“It is difficult and easy because all the players are at a good level. Any decision will be good, and any decision will be is bad as well because you have to leave a good player out,” said the Frenchman.
Arsenal must do more than finish top four
Wenger has received a lot of criticism over the years for not being able to build a championship winning team. While qualifying for the Champions League consistently with relatively inferior resources is a commendable job, it is now time for Arsenal to start dreaming beyond a top four finish.
With quality players like Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez, Santi Cazorla, and Petr Cech in their squad, Arsenal have a strong backbone on which they can build a championship-winning side. However, investment in the summer will be necessary at both ends of the pitch. The Gunners need a consistent goalscorer up front, while a centre-back also remains a priority.
