The name Zech Medley, may not ring a bell with many of the Emirates faithful but with Arsenal’s depleted backline, due to injuries, it might well be a name worth remembering.
Medley is only 18 but he is a phenomenal prospect that could solve a problem. He cuts an imposing and powerful figure at 1.95 meters, possesses great technical ability and is for me, in the mould of Sol Campbell.
If Arsenal are looking for cover for Rob Holding and are reluctant to put pressure on Nacho Monreal and Laurent Koscielny as they try to achieve full fitness, Medley may be the way to forward.
However, with Koscielny back in the game from ruptured Achilles injury, the youngster’s chance to get first team action becomes a doubt. Whatsoever, Medley should at least be given a chance to play at the highest level.
He’s ready, he looks the part and has been in direct competition with other talents such as Julio Pleguezuelo and Ben Sheaf, which has helped in his development.
Someone needs to question our gaffer that:
What pleasure does he get playing Xhaka at centre back?
Will we ever see Mavropanos play again in our lifetime??
What has to be done by Zech Medley, Ben Sheaf, etc. to get a chance when they have the opportunity??#NorthLondonDerby pic.twitter.com/UuCUVgRQD0
— Nikhilesh Mallick (@advocatus_goonr) December 19, 2018
Some may say that he’s too young to be a central defender but Tony Adams was also in his teens when he made the position his own.
Emery may favour experience but he is said to be impressed by the young defender’s progress, so hopefully, Zech Medley will make the bench at the very least more often.
The thing is, that if Zech Medley isn’t pushed, Arsenal may be forced into spending on that very position in January and if that happens, Medley may never break into the side.
Arsenal were in song in the premiership but last weekend’s defeat at the hands of Southampton and last night’s 2-0 loss against the Spurs in the League Cup display’s the need for a change of Melody. Arsenal’s 2-3 defeat to 17th placed Southampton at the St. Mary’s Stadium in the Premier League was the first for the Gunners since their 3-2 loss to Chelsea in August.
This goes on to prove that even with their top defender back from absence, Arsenal is still vulnerable. Thus, testing Zech Medley at the back may not be such a bad idea.
