Wenger surprised by defender’s emergence

Quite honestly, Arsene Wenger did not expect Thomas Vermaelen to settle in at Arsenal so handily.

The Belgian thoroughly impressed in his first games in the red and white and added more to the delight by scoring on his debut.

Vermaelen looked reliable at Goodison Park and further displayed his essential understanding with William Gallas at the heart of Arsenal’s defense in a tougher match at Celtic on Tuesday.

The 23-year-old has also provided the aerial ability Arsenal previously lacked at the back and with Vermaelen gradually growing into an answer to the Gunners’ defensive problems, Wenger could not help but express his satisfaction.

“Yes I am surprised. He had a very long preparation and we saw he had the physical strength and the mentality to cope with it. When it’s needed he comes in.

I believe he has a good mixture of physical, technical and it’s interesting to have a left-footed player because it gives you angles for the pass that are very important to the midfielders.” Wenger said.

(I need to let you all know that the site may not be updated for a week or so due to a personal obligation.
So don’t worry where I’ve gone during that time, this has never happened before but I hope you all manage well without me this weekend against Pompey. )