..Martin Škrtel.
Without any disrespect intended towards Liverpool, there wasn’t much top quality to choose from this current squad. The 30 year-old Slovakian defender, who’s recently signed a new contract extension at Anfield, is one of the team’s best players, alongside Daniel Sturridge and Raheem Sterling on top form.
Škrtel is one of Liverpool’s longest serving players, having been at the club since 2008, having played alongside the likes of club legends Sami Hyypiä and Jamie Carragher. He’s known for being a brave and combative defensive figure in the side, although he’s partial to receiving a few red cards for his passionate/ ill-timed efforts.
However, very few can argue that amongst the current defensive options at the club’s disposal, consisting of Mamadou Sakho, Kolo Toure and Dejan Lovren, he is by far the club’s best option.
Although Liverpool’s defending has been their Achilles heel in recent seasons – a problem that eventually cost them the title last year – the team look a bit more secure and assured with Skrtel in the side, and a lot less like headless chickens.
He has all the qualities as a team captain, with the way he commands his area, his bravery and threat from set-pieces (something Arsenal fell victim too twice at Anfield in the last two seasons).
The only issue with a signing like Skrtel is his age. How long would he even be at Arsenal for? Would Wenger ever spend money on someone of his age in the first place? And although this is the main problem with such a signing, his leadership qualities could only bolster any defence.
Agree? Disagree? Comment below with your thoughts. Our editor’s pick is Emre Can.