4. Build A New Training Programme
Adam Davy/PA WireInjuries are part and parcel of every sport even with the intense scientific research clubs have available, however, Arsenal had the worst injury record of any Premier League club during the 2013-14 season. It seems every season Arsenal collapse during first knock-out game of the Champions League in February, due to injuries and lack in-depth, and they have themselves to blame in some ways. Below is a list of the players injured through training last season: Diaby: Cruciate Ligament Tear 396 days Vermaelen: Lower back - 89 days Walcott: Abdominal Tear 59 days Källström: back 43 days Arteta: Thigh Strain 39 Days Cazorla - 32 days Ramsey, Chamberlain, Walcott (2nd injury) Podolski, Monreal, Rosický and Wilshere all picked up knocks during a game and current scout Gilles Grimandi believes it is because of the style the team plays.
We have so many injuries because we keep hold of the ball more than other teams and this exposes the team to more knocks from opponents. It is also because we have a lot of small-sized players, and the fact we take part in so many competitions increases risk of injury.
In contrast to Grimandis views playing in several competitions is not a hindrance compared with other teams in the same situation as evidenced by the number of days in previous campaigns that the side have accumulated due to injuries. Wenger has demanded a review of the training and medical procedures, which hopefully will see an Arsenal side maintain their form for the whole season.