It was something many Arsenal fans have waited a long time to see, the sight of German International Lukas Podolski blasting a left footed strike in the back of a net is one of the finest things to witness in football. Finally the former FC Koln Striker got some game time against Galatasaray on Tuesday night and he did not disappoint if anything he made a case to be a recipient of more competitive football. Podolski has been linked with a move away from the Emirates for a year now and thankfully for many Arsenal fans he still remains at the club. The forward has been understandably frustrated and has made no secret of his desire to reach a conclusion one way or another but one thing is for certain at the age of 29 the German still has a lot to offer.
The best finisher at the club
Podolski has often been described as the best finisher at the club by Wenger, his team-mates and former players, which begs the question why has the German found chances at a premium since his arrival in April 2012? The Polish born Forward has scored 31 goals in 55 starts for Arsene Wenger’s side in the last two and half years which is something that Wenger should take notice of. Wenger has few attacking options due to injuries and it may be time to turn his attention to the 29 year old who with a run of games has the ability and maturity to provide Arsenal with the right amount of firepower required.
His experience could be vital
The German striker has valuable experience in performing on the big stage with Bayern Munich and the German national team. Arsenal still have a relatively young and inexperienced squad especially when it comes to winning silverware. Podolski won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich back in 2007-08 and if Arsenal are to challenge for silverware this season his experience could be invaluable as Wenger will be looking to build on last seasons FA Cup triumph.
What Podolski offers
As you can see The German has found it difficult to hold down a first team place with his opportunities limited, this is a clear indication that he has been misused in the last two years. Podolski does not look comfortable when played as a orthodox no.9, however when played on the left of a front three he can be been deadly as he showed on Tuesday night. His most effective season was in fact his first one in an Arsenal shirt where he scored 11 goals in 33 Premier League appearances as well as providing 9 assists and creating a further 31 chances.
The former Bayern forward is still a fan favourite and it will be a dark day at the Emirates if/when he is allowed to leave, with Wenger’s growing injury concerns it would be inconceivable for Podolski to be not afforded more minutes in the Premier League starting with the visit of Newcastle United on Saturday.
About Andy Rees
Arsenal News 24/7
Sky Sports Arsenal
Yup he should get a run in the squad MUCH MUCH more often then Wenger played him.
I think he proved he deserves to start more EPL games with both the opening goal and the final goal in the last min. against Galatasaray. Granted Galatasaray is no Bayern Munich but I think he proved give him a view of the goal and you know he will hit the target.