Arsenal - Superb Samir Nasri Covers Up Arsenal's Frailties For Now

Last week I posted an article focusing on how Arsenal may suffer in the absence of Cesc Fabregas. Today's 2-1 victory over Fulham has not changed my mind on Arsenal completely, however I feel compelled to write an article focusing on where Arsenal are getting it right; and where they are still lacking in my opinion. I would welcome the opinions of Arsenal fans and football fans alike in determining how the clubs' fortunes may pan out over the remainder of the season.

Samir Nasri has been in scintillating form this term. Photo: Daily Telegraph Online.

Those who saw the match today at The Emirates Stadium were treated to a Samir Nasri masterpiece. Having seen both of the goals, each was just about as special as it gets. The delightful composure and craftsmanship shown to floor two of Fulham's bemused defenders was exceptional to say the least. Nasri then followed up such an exquisite goal with an even better one. The frenchman collecting a pass from the fit again Robin Van Persie; ghosting past a Fulham defender, rounding the goalkeeper and finishing from a tight angle after a genius change of body position. 11 goals so far this season is something that few could have predicted from Nasri at the start of the season.

So, having discussed the impact of the Cesc Fabregas injury earlier in the week, it is clear to see that Arsenal can cope without him for the mean time. The media is reporting that Arsenal played some excellent football today. Adrey Arshavin and Marouane Chamakh reportedly linking up well all game. The returning Robin Van Persie looked sharp and played a significant part in the victory, linking up play well and reportedly come deeper in search of the ball.

I do believe that going forward, Arsenal are an outstanding outfit. I stand by comments earlier in the week, where I stated that the absence of Fabregas could hinder Arsenal in bigger games. Today's opposition had the unfortunate record of not winning a Premier League match away from home in two years. Nobody of a sound mind would ever bet on Fulham winning away from home. Despite such an awful record, Arsenal allowed their opponents to get seven shots on target; and a further five attempts off target. Fulham also forced seven corners during the game; highlighting the fact that Arsenal are by no means air tight at the back. Arsenal had 51% possession in 90 minutes, a statistic that is normally significantly higher given Arsenal's ability to make the opposition work hard to get the ball back. 

I think that with a fully-fit Fabregas Arsenal would crush opposition like Fulham, particularly at home. In a month where Arsenal face Man Utd (A) and Chelsea (H) the true tests are yet to come. Fabregas thrives in such games, soaking up possession and tiring the opposition by keeping possession so well. Arsenal will need to tighten up at the back if they are to fight off a free-scoring Man Utd side who are sure to capitalise on any frailties. Having only kept four clean sheets in 15 Premier League outings this season Arsenal are used to conceding. 

Arsenal are susceptible to conceding against weaker opposition of late. 

For now, Arsenal will pray on weaker opposition where attacking prowess will override defensive weaknesses. With Man Utd's fixture against Blackpool falling victim to the weather and Chelsea showing once again that they are not unbreakable, Arsenal have capitalised when it matters. I think we are in for a stunning title race, but in the short-term we can sit back and continue to watch the scintillating Samir Nasri give us beautiful football. 

DH