Not Down on the Defense

Not quite a manifesto, but a brief statement voicing support for Arsenal's central defense against a rising tide of unanimity that it's flawed:

I like the Arsenal defense as it is. They've shown some vulnerability on set pieces, and Arsenal have been conceding a lot of chances so far in the league, although between poor finishing and Almunia's keeping they haven't conceded many goals; but I rate the four defenders (Clichy, Gallas, Toure, and Sagna) as individuals and as a back four.

Rising tide of unanimity: "Gallas and Toure don't work as a central defensive partnership."

Wicked Deflection's 433: "I disagree, or at least, I think the mistakes have been blown out of proportion relative to the good qualities and the potential for a really outstanding defense. Gallas and Toure can play football and defend; and we love defenders who can do both. They're not very tall, and neither of them is in the peak form of his career, but they're both really excellent players and defenders, deservedly first choice, and set for an outstanding season. That's a tip. All this from an enthusiastic supporter of Djourou and a cautious supporter of Alex Song. Worry not: Gallas and Toure, barring injury, will prove their worth as a partnership this season without further ado (or at least very little ado)."