Lukas Podolski’s season at the Emirates was full of ups and downs. His 11 league goals are promising for a player who has just entered their first year in the Premier League. Moving from the Bundesliga to England is never an easy feat, especially for a pacey forward such as Podolski. The increased physicality can be tough on smaller players.
But, his cheerful smile, attitude and love of the game make him an ideal player for any team. But, with the plethora of youthful wingers coming through, Arsenal may find it preferable to move him to his preferred role as a central striker.
As his international stats show, Podolski is able to score in big games. The problem he will need to overcome is being able to compete and score on a regular basis in domestic competitions. He is definitely capable of it; his 46 goals for Germany showcase his ability. Can Arsene Wenger pull this side of Podolski out and have him start week in week out?
If Podolski were to fight for a spot with Arsenal’s other wingers, he would have a tough time finding himself being penciled into the starting sheet. But, if Podolski were to work on becoming a central striker, he would have a much better chance of getting game time. During Olivier Giroud’s three game ban at the end of the season Podolski found himself chosen upfront.
He managed 4 shots on goal and 2 goals in a span of 231 on-field minutes. His 2 goals against Wigan Athletic proved to be important in keeping Arsenal alive in the race for 4th place. Again he proved he can score big goals in big games.
The absence of a central striker and more reliance on Podolski increased his stats over that 3 game span. If this were to continue over a season he may be able to break out and have a career year.
With Arsene Wenger on the market for a quality striker Podolski may have a hard time finding space in the lineup. This doesn’t seem to bother him, because earlier this summer he stated “I feel very comfortable and I am completely satisfied with my first year in England. I have no intention to leave the club.” (Source: ESPN)
This shows he is dedicated enough to fight for his spot on the team in the following year and for several years to come.
Podolski’s consistency may be an issue, but very few men are more capable in big game situations. He’s certainly a very important player for Arsenal, as they will be competing in many competitions in the 2013/14 season. If Wenger is able to get Podolski into the line-up more often, he will surely not disappoint. Even without being a star player, he may play an extremely important role in what all Gooners will hope to be a title winning season.
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