Paul Merson is worried for Arsenal after they lost 3-2 in a friendlies match against Brentford.
It is definitely worrying because this is the first match Arsenal played after the unprecedented pandemic break – and it wasn’t even against a top-flight club.
Paul Merson believes that the fans drove the players on and now without the fans, the team is falling short of motivation and drive.
Merson said: “I worry for Arsenal. I watched the goals they let in against Brentford, and I worry about them playing behind closed doors. When you’re not a great defender, and Arsenal have a few of them, not top drawer defenders, I think the fans keep you honest.
“I mean that they keep your concentration levels. You need the fans there to keep you concentrated. One of the goals against Brentford, David Luiz tries to play out, flick it over the lad’s head, and that’s not honest. The fans try to keep you honest.
“Whoever can adapt, could reel off a few games on the trot. If you don’t get used to it, it’s Saturday-Wednesday-Saturday-Wednesday, you’ll soon be in trouble.”
Merson also highlights about Arteta’s involvement in building the Arsenal team.
“I think it’s important they play as a team, but at the moment I don’t see it at Arsenal. I know Arteta is trying to change it, but it seems like the forwards have their game, the midfielders have their game, and then we then just see what the defenders do.
“I think they’ve got to get back to basics, get tight at the back. We all like watching Arsenal play because you know you’re going to get action and goals at both ends.
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