Arsenal: Schwarzer or Given? You decide!

Everybody recognises that Arsenal desperately require a proven goalkeeper in place before the transfer window closes in order to realistically challenge for honours this season.

Fulham’s Mark Schwarzer is reportedly the top choice for Arsene Wenger and the Frenchman is close to sealing the Australian’s signature. However, recent events at Eastlands may see Wenger opt to bring long-time target Shay Given to the Emirates. But who do you think would be best suited for Arsenal?

Mark Schwarzer

The former Middlesbrough keeper has played in World Cups, European finals and has been a consistent performer during his 13-year spell in England. Boro fans will always remember him for his last-minute penalty save from Manchester City’s Robbie Fowler in 2005, which ensured the Teesside club finished in seventh and booked their place in Europe.

The Australian international has bags of experience and seems to be getting better with age. His concentration levels and positioning are top notch and would love to bow out having played in the Champions League for a club like Arsenal. At 37, Schwarzer has a few more years left at the top level, but some critics would prefer Wenger to sign somebody with Champions League experience.

Shay Given

The Republic of Ireland shot stopper is undoubtedly one of the best keepers in the Premier League. Brave, agile and with the reactions of a cat, Given can count himself unfortunate to lose the number one spot at Eastlands to Joe Hart. The former Newcastle Untied man had years of goalkeeping practice at St James’ Park. After all he had the chuckle brothers Bramble and Boumsong playing in front of him! Given fully deserved his move to Manchester City and played a vital part in City’s march up the table.

Unfortunately a shoulder injury, ironically picked up playing against Arsenal towards the end of last season, could have played a huge role in Given being dropped by Mancini. At 34, Given is a spring chicken in goalkeeping terms and could be Arsenal’s number one for the next six years.

 

In my opinion Given is by far the better option for Arsenal. He has age on his side, has performed consistently at the top level and would breed confidence to the defence. Wenger is a well-known admirer of Given and it has been claimed that only the failure to agree personal terms stopped them teaming up before.

Schwarzer is a decent goalkeeper and would do a better job than Almunia – but let’s face it, who wouldn’t? – but Given would give everyone at the Emirates a massive lift. However, would City be willing to let Given join one of their main rivals?

·       Calling all Arsenal fans. Who would you rather see in between the sticks at the Emirates and why? What does Schwarzer have that Given doesn’t and vice-versa? How vital is it that Wenger addresses this issue before the transfer window closes? Whatever your view, I’d love to hear from you.