Nasri shines

Last nights International at Wembley produced very few positives for England but Samir Nasri’s performance was further evidence of a player at the peak of his powers. Since arriving at Arsenal 2 years ago his form has certainly fluctuated but his prodigious talent is now beginning to flourish on a consistent basis. His ability to manoeuvre the ball past opponents at ease demonstrates his sublime technical ability.

I first saw Nasri playing for Marseille in 2005 and was struck by his composure; that ability is not something you can teach, look at Theo Walcott for example. Last seasons injury to Cesc Fabregas saw Wenger move Nasri in field where he has more scope to really hurt the opposition. He thrived in the central position although he remained somewhat inconsistent.

In his early career he was likened to Zinedine Zidane; both of Algerian descent and both at their best when played as a playmaker behind the strikers. This comparison had some detrimental effect at the time but he now seems to be becoming that type of player; everything looks so easy and he moves the ball from left to right with consummate ease.

Wenger faces a tough decision in the summer when Barcelona will surely come calling for Fabregas. However, in Nasri and his young protégé Wilshire he has more than able replacements. The questions for Samir, as with the whole Arsenal squad is can the club achieve the success the player’s desire. The jury remains out but if he were to become available most of Europe will be lining up for his signature.