Nuno Tavares at centre of Arsenal squad debate as new injuries spark Arteta tactics conflict

Arsenal arguably had their worst performance of this season against Crystal Palace on Monday evening, as Mikel Arteta’s side came 3-0 losers at Selhurst Park. A Champions League for next season is still in The Gunners’ hands but Tottenham have gained ground on fourth place.

However, the result itself arguably was not the biggest disappointment of Arsenal’s defeat to Crystal Palace. It was the injury suffered by Thomas Partey, and the injury revealed to Kieran Tierney before the match kicked off which has led to a lot of worry amongst the fans. Nuno Tavares covered for Tierney but was extremely disappointing and hooked off at half-time, whereas Partey has a lack of cover for him if he is not fit.

It may be wise for Arteta to switch systems and play three centre-backs to cover for the potential injury losses and lack of depth in the squad. The Arsenal way debate whether or not they would change from the 4-3-3 formation that has seen a lot of success in recent matchdays.

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Despite the potential long-term losses of Kieran Tierney and Thomas Partey, Mikel Arteta should not change from a system that has given Arsenal the most success this season. Especially in the final stretch of the campaign.

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