COMETH THE HOUR?

 

In my last post, dear reader, I said-

"Every team has an off day but the time for poor performances is not now, especially not now that Arsenal are in the thick of a title race. "Cometh the hour" they say, but then again 'they' say a lot of things, but there is no sense or feeling that any one player is looking to grab the title race by the proverbial horns and lead this team to glory"

I know thing it's fair to consider Eberechi Eze as possibly being that man. 

Injuries and fixture pile ups have contributed to a drop in form. Possibly away teams arriving at the Emirates being more proactive has also had an impact, but the logical conclusion for the down turn is fatigue and loss of form.

But Eze, here is a player who has looked to get on the front foot, has tried to actively affect the oppositions defence and has been able to add a dash of unpredictability. Yes, his challenge against The Oil Club was poor but he remains a bright spot for a nervous fanbase.

In essence he has reminded us of what we have been missing with Saka's extended absence.

Nerves can affect everyone and professional athletes are human after all, and that's the sense I get from a number of the Arsenal Squad. They may need a bit of inspiration and goal attempts and wonder goals certainly give that.

If we see the return of Timber and Califiori we will feel more adept at winning games from a strong defensive base. If Havertz's availability is improved then we have more options, should Merino even be available for one or two games our flexibility can be better. All "ifs" and "buts" I know but what we saw on Saturday is that one player can make a difference

The final lap is approaching and the runners are beginning to tire but a dash of inspiration and a dollop of endeavour may make the difference that may come from Eze and a returning Saka. Cometh the hour stuff.