Worthy of the Shirt

There have been many legends to have worn the red of Arsenal throughout the years, and how Arsene Wenger could do with one of those fighters in his current squad. Gunner's fans, some more recognisable than others, are taking to every social network site to express their concern for the London club.

With a realistic chance of going a seventh year without a trophy after dismal displays in the same week against AC Milan and Sunderland, Wenger must repair his squad in the summer. This includes getting rid of the deadwood who are unwilling to fight for the team and reinvest in exciting spirited players who can dig deep for a result when called upon.

On Twitter Piers Morgan highlighted the small amount of players at the Emirates who have heart, desire, hunger and passion. And his damning conclusion was that there were too few.

Above all else what the team is lacking in is leadership. Robin Van Persie may be an outstanding footballer but Arsenal desperately need a leader in the mould of Tony Adams or Patrick Vieira, to wear the captains armband. Someone who the younger players can look up to. The closest player to this at the Emirates is Thomas Vermalen, yet he is too often on the injury table. The way Steven Taylor plays for his beloved Newcastle is a prime example of what Arsenal are lacking. I am not suggesting that Wenger should bid for the Englishman as he is not the answer. However, I do believe signing a player who has a passion for the club itself is a must.

One thing that all previous Arsenal greats possessed was that they were true fans of The club. Patrick Vieira, Dennis Bergkamo and Martin Keown would sweat blood and tears to grind out three points. It was clear to see how much the north London club meant to another ex-Gunner when Thierry Henry returned last month. His sheer determination and passion for Arsenal was blatant from the moment he scored his match winning goal against Leeds in the FA Cup. The Frenchman erupted with emotion at the final whistle. Not because he had scored on his second debut, but because his side had won. It is hard to imagine the likes of Andrey Arshavin or Marouanne Chamakh reacting in that way. They are both decent players but they are not what this club needs to end its trophy drought.

There are many great players out there who should be considered to don the red shirt. Phil Jagielka, Yann M'VIla and Danielle De Rossi are just a few that would add an extra dimension to Arsenal's fluent attacking side. Though, it must not be forgotten that in the likes of Jack Wilshere, Alex Song and Emmanuel Frimpong Arsenal do possess young players with the ability to standup and be counted. Yet, more players willing to fight for the famous crest can turn this great team into a winning one. A small margin but a big difference.