Trip down memory lane

As the scene is so dead at the moment, I mean all we are hearing about are random transfer rumours, that seem to be computer generated or pulled out of a hat, I thought I would take a trip down memory lane and make a comparison to the Invincible's team that famously went unbeaten throughout the whole season in 2003/2004. The contrast in individual talent, depth, drive and determination is sort of like the contrast between black and white.

Lets start with the keepers. Now I know Jens Lehmann wasn't exactly a fans favourite, and rarely filled fans with confidence, but there is no question that Jens was a great keeper for us. He was a leader with unquestionable desire to win football matches, whilst calling him slightly eccentric maybe an understatement, he commanded the area and showed authority in the box. This is something Almunia and Fabianski has failed to provide us with this season, countless errors and the distinct lack of leadership and presence whilst defending in our own box has definitely been a remote problem to us this season.

Invincible's - 8/10
Now - 5/10

The defence of the invincible season was probably the best back line we have had since the days of Adams, Bould, Winterburn and Dixon. We only conceded 26 goals throughout that season, compared to the 42 goals conceded this season. Toure and Campbell formed a rock solid partnership at the back, with Ashley Cole and Lauren playing full backs. Defensive cover was provided by defenders with experience such as Keown and Cygan. The mental strength to hang onto leads and actually win games 1-0 was fundamental to us winning the league and going unbeaten. This season we've found it very hard to hold on to leads, sometimes even our leads have been overturned to result in defeat. The defence as a unit this season has not been as solid as that of the Invincible's.

Invincible's - 8/10
Now - 6/10

Our midfield during the Invincible's season was nothing short of amazing. In my opinion probably the best midfield we have had, certainly in my generation anyway. The central midfield partnership of Vieira and Gilberto shook fear into any team we faced, great experience and an incredible drive to win games. Although we play a different formation now, as the 4-4-2 formation has slowly lost its purpose and has become very unfavourable in today's modern game, we still try to play the same way, however defensively we are not as astute. With Pires and Ljungberg on the wings, goals were easy to find, whereas Nasri, Arshavin and Rosicky haven't really found their feet in the goalscoring department. Song has been great this season, Diaby has shone in parts and who can forget Fabregas' magnificent season. In terms of personnel the midfield we have now is still a pretty decent midfield. However in terms of depth, we cant compare. The Invincible's could turn to players such as Parlour, Edu, Wiltord and Reyes to bring off the bench. Whereas we have players like Denilson and Walcott, the depth in quality is very different.

Invincible's - 8.5/10
Now - 7/10

Bergkamp and Henry. Probably the two greatest players ever to play for Arsenal, both in the same team. Looking back at it now, I am astonished. That strike force could be compared to any team in the world in the past, and even currently. The attacking line up was guaranteed goals, with Pires and Ljungberg also chipping in and Henry scoring 30 goals a season for fun. You look at this season and our centre midfielder was our top scorer. Granted Robin van Persie was injured for most of the season, but even still we shouldn't be relying on Fabregas to be our top scorer as well as our play maker. Comparing Van Persie, Bendtner, Arshavin and Eduardo to Bergkamp, Henry, Pires and Kanu, speaks for itself. Van Persie is probably the only person named who would have challenged to break into the Invincible's squad.

Invincible's - 9/10
Now - 7/10

As you can see the contrast between the two squads are massive. Fair enough we had to rebuild the squad, but it has now been 6 years since the invincible and all we seem to be doing is going further and further back. We have turned into a selling club, and buying average Joe's who aren't improving the team and taking us back to the heights we were once at.

Invincible's - 8.5
Now - 6.5