Defending Mikel Arteta as a Defensive Midfielder?

Defending Mikel Arteta as a Defensive Midfielder?

Defending Mikel Arteta as a Defensive Midfielder?

Defending Mikel Arteta as a Defensive Midfielder?

Alex Song left for Barcelona and a hole was left in Arsenal’s midfield. This season, Mikel Arteta has been forced to sit deeper back on the pitch, testing his defensive capabilities when Arsenal are searching for possession. As some of you may have seen in a recent interview with Arteta and Santi Cazorla, the smaller, ever-smiling Spaniard notes that Mikel is playing out of position and is still adjusting. While this is undeniably true, perhaps Arteta isn’t receiving enough credit for his already established defensive prowess.

Because his passing and ability to keep possession are such strengths, it’s not surprising that his defensive qualities (cutting off angles, pressuring on the first touch…) have been overlooked. Well, overlooked by most. Here’s a video we came across that showcases the things Arteta is already doing well, and also a few things he needs to improve upon. [Posted by Eric]