Gibbs confident despite defensive woes

Arsenal’s annual defensive crisis may have started early this season, but left-back Kieran Gibbs is adamant the Gunners can cope this time despite being low on numbers ahead of the new campaign.

German centre-back Per Mertesacker is likely to be out until the New Year with a knee injury, while Laurent Koscielny could miss the first few games after being allowed an extended rest period following France’s run to the Euro 2016 final.

And Gibbs, who played second fiddle to Nacho Monreal last season, insists Arsenal’s young players have the quality to step up and take their chance – starting against Liverpool in their opening Premier League clash next weekend.

“Per is a big loss on and off the pitch as he is one of our biggest characters and a leader,” said Gibbs.

Gibbs in action against RC Lens last month. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

“We are a young squad in general and with Per out for a few months it is a good opportunity for the young players and for those looking to become more senior and fill his role off the pitch.

“It is a big season for me and I want to re-establish myself and help the team progress and move forward.”

Young centre-backs Rob Holding, a new signing from Bolton Wanderers, and Calum Chambers, could start the season for Arsene Wenger’s men – who face a tough couple of months.

After Liverpool they face defending champions Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, while Chelsea travel to North London in September.

But Gibbs claims new signing Holding and midfielder Granit Xhaka have hit the ground running in pre-season and he expects Wenger to make further additions this month.

“We have to focus on our own jobs and hopefully everything will fall into place by the start of the season,” he added.