Stephan Lichtsteiner isn’t retiring any time soon, don’t worry about that Arsenal fans.
Stephan Lichtsteiner was one fifth of a flurry of Arsenal signings this summer. Signing on a free transfer from Juventus, many didn’t know what to make of him, but he’s not done anything to hinder his reputation. Granted, he would be aiming for a little more game time, but it was never going to be easy replacing Hector Bellerin.
Lichtsteiner impressed in his cameo against Manchester City, one of the bright sparks which the Gunners needed. He came into the match and drilled some discipline into his players, although it wasn’t enough to turn the game around.
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Obviously, he’s getting on in his career a bit now. Ageing at 34 years old, it’s easy to write a full back off, but we shouldn’t write off Lichtsteiner. He’s one of those who won’t settle for retiring this early, and he’ll want to get every last drop out of his career fountain.
His recent claims via the Daily Mail only prove the claim…
"“For me, stepping down has never been up for debate, if I have to admit I cannot keep the level of the last few years, then it is time.” – Stephan Lichtsteiner"
His performances on the pitch certainly don’t depict any signs of fatigue. Arsenal and Swiss fans consistently see him bombing down the flanks, giving his colleagues a boost to do the same. Whether he’s doing it to prove a point, or out of fuel for the game won’t came as a concern to Unai Emery, all that matters is his players getting the job done.
This is an area which Bellerin could take a leaf from. Don’t get me wrong, I know Bellerin has a lot of onus on the right hand side, but at his age, he should have the means to cope with the gut-busting runs.
Lichtsteiner recently played against England in a friendly. While Switzerland lost, Lichtsteiner was again a real bright spark. He gave it his all to inspire his teammates by example, often being a threat down England’s flank.
Lichtsteiner will get his chances in the Europa League. If he can impress, then there’s no reason why Emery won’t choose him over Bellerin. I love Bellerin, but it’s important to remember that Emery doesn’t share the same sentimentality which Wenger shared with him.
Do you think Stephan Lichtsteiner still has a few years left in him with Arsenal?