Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker is pleased with the depth on the Gunners’ bench, saying that the players push each other to do better.
Mertesacker has been with the Gunners since the summer of 2011 and has gone on to play over 150 games for the north London outfit, winning two FA Cups in the process. He has also been appointed the vice-captain of the side.
Last season the Gunners struggled with injuries to several of their personnel, especially in defence, and it led to youngsters such as Hector Bellerin and Calum Chambers making numerous appearances.
However this term, Arsenal have plenty of options in defence with Mertesacker, Gabriel Paulista, Chambers, Bellerin, Nacho Monreal, Mathieu Debuchy and Laurent Koscielny amongst others, vying for a spot in the first team.
The 2014 World Cup winner believes that the depth is a great a thing for Arsenal as players push each other to do better for a spot in the first team.
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“It’s a good situation for us because every player gives something to the team”, the defender told Arsenal Player.
“It’s not only about taking something or taking a place, for us it means more to play for Arsenal than just getting a spot in the lineup.
“It’s a good situation for all of us.
“There will be small niggles, injuries and sicknesses so we have to find a way of playing with each other, no matter who’s playing.
"That is the situation but it’s a very respectful situation.”
