Darren Bent has claimed Nuno Tavares and Cedric Soares aren’t good enough for Arsenal, as he told talkSPORT.
The Arsenal-supporting pundit highlighted Tavares’ issues during their 3-0 defeat against Crystal Palace on Monday night.
The 22-year-old, starting in replace of the injured Kieran Tierney, was hooked off at half-time by Mikel Arteta.
Meanwhile, Cedric is playing instead of Takehiro Tomiyasu and he too endured a difficult evening up against Wilfried Zaha.
It has to be noted that both are back-ups, as Bent highlighted the ‘drop-off’ between Tavares and Tierney.
“It was like I was in a time machine,” said Bent. “It felt like I was watching Arsenal from the start of the season.
“Not at all (on Arsenal’s fullbacks Tavares and Cedric not being good enough). I have seen Tavares twice, at Nottingham Forest and again against Palace.
“Jamie Carragher called it on commentary ‘he has to come off at half-time’. And he did.
“He was out of position. Not good enough on the ball. I know his reputation and people say he’s going to be a good player. But the drop-off when Tierney isn’t playing.”
This is now more of a mental test for Arsenal and Arteta, rather than one of quality.
Aside from those opening three defeats, they have been outstanding all season, from back to front.
But, as things stand, they are sitting fifth in the Premier League table, with their north London rivals in the Champions League driving seat and that after thrashing Newcastle 5-1.
On top of that, Arsenal themselves are now going through a tricky spell, after that defeat, Tierney’s injury and now some serious fixtures coming up.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
