Why Arsenal must start Lukas Podolski against Newcastle United

Having spent four months on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, Lukas Podolski knew he had some catching up to do when he returned to action. Given his chance to get started away to struggling West Ham United, he took it, giving Arsene Wenger something to consider ahead of Arsenal’s showdown with a Newcastle United side that is flying high.

Within just six minutes of coming on for Aaron Ramsey, Podolski made a significant attacking contribution, playing in a cross from the left flank towards Theo Walcott, who subsequently thundered a header past goalkeeper Adrian. That was the go-ahead goal the Gunners needed. But Podolski wasn’t finished yet.

Two minutes later, he made a fantastic run in behind the defence to latch on to an excellent through ball from Santi Cazorla, but he was thwarted by Adrian at close range. Determined, and understandably so, he kept going and was rewarded for his persistence six minutes later.

Olivier Giroud held the ball up well and laid it off into the German’s path, allowing him to rifle a low-placed shot into the corner of Adrian’s net. And that was that.

Wenger recently spoke of Arsenal’s need for more direct players when his side are in possession, as his team has a lot of players who love to get on the ball and play rather than make forward runs off it. The return of Walcott to the side helped address that concern, and Podolski’s impressive cameo proved that he can offer the kind of directness Wenger wants as well.

With someone as creative as Mesut Ozil in the side, a player who ranks second in the league both for chances created (45) and assists made (7), this bodes well, as Podolski and Walcott on either side of him making runs in behind the defence will give the German meaningful passing options. Giroud also stands to benefit, as he would have someone to link up with in and around the penalty area. His lay off for Podolski’s goal is an example of what they can do together.

Newcastle have conceded the most goals of any team in the top six (23), but are in good form, winning three of their last four games, including a 5-1 bashing of Stoke City at St. James’ Park in the last round of fixtures.

With Arsenal set to play there, Wenger knows his side will have to be at their best again if they are to continue their tile charge. That said, starting Podolski after he showed against West Ham that he is capable of playing a key role would be a wise idea.