25/02/2014 16:49
It is no coincidence that Tomas Rosicky's return to the team prompted arguably Arsenal's most fluid attacking display of the season.
The Gunners were devastating in their recent 4-1 trouncing of a hapless Sunderland team. The quality, or lack thereof, of the opposition played some small part. But it was the Rosicky effect that was most telling, and not just because of his thrilling goal. The veteran schemer has become indispensable thanks to his ability to deliver stellar performances in the crunch period of a campaign.
Despite being the oldest outfield member of the Arsenal squad, Rosicky plays with an effervescence more befitting of a far younger man. It’s almost as if the time he spent on the side-lines with injury preserved his vitality. In football years, he is two years younger, and his style of play reflects that youthful spirit.
Wenger alludes to Rosicky’s selflessness, and that is undoubtedly one of his greatest characteristics. He works tirelessly for the team, putting younger players to shame with his constant harrying and surprisingly effective sliding tackles.
As Rosicky has matured, his style has changed. He arrived as a playmaker and has metamorphosed in to a box-to-box dynamo. What’s more, he has become a leader.
In an Arsenal squad full of young talent, a player with Rosicky’s experience is invaluable. He sets an outstanding example for the younger players about how to operate both with and without the ball. The likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Serge Gnabry can only learn from playing alongside someone with Rosicky’s attitude and technique.
Think about Arsenal’s best performances over the last two years, and the chances are Rosicky was involved. The 5-2 against Tottenham two years ago, the 4-0 thrashing of AC Milan, the list goes on. With all the talk about the talented pair of Santi Cazorla and Mesut Ozil, Rosicky’s contribution is often overlooked. He might not be as flashy as those two, but he’s every bit as effective.
Arsene Wenger loves Rosicky, and the Arsenal fans do, too. The Czech midfielder might be ageing, but he’s showing no signs of slowing. A new contract is an absolute must.
