Paul Merson Raised Alarm Over Arsenal’s Stephan Lichtsteiner
Arsenal signed Switzerland captain Stephan Lichtsteiner from Juventus on a free transfer last month and he is poised to have his debut against Manchester City on Sunday.
Having won seven Serie A titles with the Old Lady prior to his switch to the Emirates Stadium, Lichtsteiner will surely bring much experience to the Gunners backline this season.
Arsenal manager Unai Emery made the backline his main focus during the recently concluded transfer market as he signed three defense-minded players so as to provide a strong shield for his newly signed goalkeeper Bernd Leno, who joined from Bayer Leverkusen.
However, the acquisition of Lichtsteiner has been questioned by former Arsenal playmaker Paul Merson.
The player is becoming too old to withstand Premier League’s physical nature, that’s according to Paul Merson during his pre-match analysis.
The football pundit revealed his concern over the 35-year-old’s ability to perform in the league that requires much strength and endurance.
“Lichtsteiner is 35 and has been a very good player, but how many 35-year-old are playing at the back in the Premier League? ” he questioned.
Despite his fears over Lichtsteiner’s age, Merson admitted that the Swiss is a good addition to the Gunners base on his experience and he urged the fans to be patient with the player and Unai Emery, who is hoping to win Premier League trophy for the first time since 2004-05 season.
“I think UNai Emery has bought well, but it is going to take time. You have to give this manager time but I think he’ll be alright.” he said.
