Alex Burns sits down with former Gunners ball-boy Jack Dillon Carter for a chat about all things Arsenal.
1) How would you rate and sum up Arsenal’s season so far?
Somehow I have managed to remain calm and hopeful for most of the season and I think it’s fair to say my hope has paid off. Obviously fans, including myself, demanded and expected a title challenge this season but yet again injuries seemed to hurt us. If you look at where we were and the lacklustre football we were playing up to around November, I think it’s remarkable that we find ourselves 2nd in the Premier League and in the final of the FA Cup. Finishing 2nd and winning a domestic trophy would be progress and success to me, however I do have to question when we will sufficiently craft a title challenge in the near feature. With teething issues surrounding Shad Forsythe seemingly sorted now, a fully fit squad and especially the core of Ospina, Koscielny, Özil and Giroud should mean that we do finally give Chelsea a run for their money. Overall 8/10 so far, good but could and should be doing better.
2) Do you think the return of Mesut Özil has been a significant difference in Arsenal’s turnaround in form?
Absolutely, it’s no coincidence that since his return against Stoke we’ve won 16 out of 18 games. He plays an integral role to our system, for many months we were missing that key link in between the lines of the midfield and forward line. His ball retention is second to none and his decision making is up there with the best. He adds that calmness and composure on the ball, particularly in the final third, that has been missing in many poor performances this season. His genius is criticised at times, but that is because it is misunderstood. Yes he is there to assist, but he offers more than that. For him it not all about stats and figures, he looks to set up the team but more importantly offers balance and brings out the best of transition players such as Aaron Ramsey and Olivier Giroud, who have both endured excellent returns to the Arsenal side. Mesut Özil is all about team success, if his team are playing well then he is also happy.
3) Alexis Sanchez has 20 Arsenal goals now, just how crucial has he been for the Gunners this season?
As much as I often criticise him for pet hates such as giving the ball away and ruining counter attacks with his tendency to cut inside and slow down the build-up play, I have to applaud him for his exceptional contribution in the opening months of the season. Without his goals, assists and tenacity there would be no driving force in the team and I hate to imagine what that would’ve looked like. He, singlehandedly, put us in touch with the top four and kept us ticking over. It’s been a fantastic first season in English football for him and I’m sure he is even more determined to win a Premier League with the North London club, adding another trophy to his list of accolades. Encouraging signs in recent weeks have come through the developing relationship between the Chilean and Mesut Özil. The crafty German seems to have found himself on the same wavelength as Alexis, playing some delightful balls into his path and creating many chances. A deadly partnership will soon come.
4) Where do you think Arsenal will finish this season and why?
With the best football of our season being played now and the favourable run in, I can see us staying in our current position of 2nd. A draw against Chelsea on Sunday and it’s in the bag. 2nd in the Premier League and an FA Cup win this season.
5) Name your best Arsenal team and bench with everyone fit?
Starting XI (4-1-4-1): Ospina, Bellerin, Gabriel, Koscielny, Monreal, Arteta, Ramsey, Wilshere, Özil, Alexis, Giroud.
Subs: Szczesny, Mertesacker, Gibbs, Coquelin, Cazorla, Welbeck, Chamberlain
6) Who is your Arsenal player of the season and why?
Player of the season is a very tough decision for me, I have three candidates – Olivier Giroud, Nacho Monreal and of course Alexis Sanchez. Monreal’s come on leaps and bounds this season from the confidence ridden player we saw ripped to shreds last season at Goodison Park by Romelu Lukaku. He’s done shifts at centre half and at left back, on both occasions looking assured and safe. With him being one of our most consistent performers this season I think he deserves a shout. Giroud has been in sensational form this season. Having only played 27 games this season due to a leg break, he’s scored 18 goals and more impressively 14 have come in the league, 2 less than his league total last season despite player 16 games less. He is improving season by season and has proved to be a crucial part of how we operate on the pitch. Finally Alexis Sanchez, his stats alone speak volumes. 21 goals and 9 assists in his first season in English football kept us in touch and without him we’d be nowhere near the top – and that is why he is my player of the season. What a talent Alexis Sanchez is.
7) Who do you think is going to be the next star to breakthrough into the first team and why?
Dan Crowley for me. His technical ability and understanding of the game is superb for his age. He’s miles above anyone else in the U21 team bar possibly Gedion Zelalem who is another top prospect. I am very excited to see him feature for the club in pre-season.
8) You’ve been to a fair few games this season, what was your favourite match for either the result or performance?
Manchester United in the FA Cup for me, no feeling better than being at Old Trafford when Danny Welbeck put that chance away. Euphoria in the stands.
9) If we finish in the top three, who should we sign in the summer and why?
Cech, Schneiderlin/Gundogan and one of Sterling/Dybala if Walcott leaves. I know Cavani has lost many fans during his time at PSG but I’m still one, and if we weren’t able to secure Sterling and Cavani was offered at a cut down price, it would be hard to not say no.
Follow Jack on Twitter: @jdilloncarter
