Gunners strength in Saliba
ARSENAL have to push for trophies this season AND a top-four finish.
That’s the view of club legend Nigel Winterburn, who has been impressed by Mikel Arteta’s collection of fresh faces.
None more so than William Saliba, who is virtually like a new signing after consecutive loan stints in France with Nice and Marseille.
Winterburn (below), who won three league titles with the Gunners and made over 400 appearances, said: “The squad is much stronger than last season.
“Saliba’s come back at centre-half and before joining people were rating him very, very highly.
“He’s started his Arsenal career well.
“So they’re stronger in centre-half positions and they’re stronger at fullback.
“Oleksandr Zinchenko can also play in the centre of midfield so that makes us stronger there, and they are definitely better up front with Gabriel Jesus.
“I would say that Arsenal are significantly improved and now have squad depth.
“I always say they shouldn’t hesitate to sign players because if you pick up a major injury or two, to key areas, it can affect you greatly.”
After a busy summer in the transfer market, Winterburn wants his former club to aim big this time around.
He said: “Arsenal’s aim is to get into the top four this season... but I still think it’ll be a massive fight.
“Consistency is going to be key. They didn’t show enough of that last season.
“In terms of where they are now, with who they’ve brought into the club, the squad is stronger.
“But we’ve got to add into that as this season they’re playing Europa League football as well.
“A good, strong run in the Europa League and FA Cup is a must.”