What They Bring to the Team
Arteta: Lies deep, provides defensive cover, accurate short range passing, long-shot ability when struggling to create, free kicks, excellent positioning, keeps us in possession.
Cons: Not enough attempts at more dangerous passing, nor enough passing range in his decision making (he has the ability, but chooses safety first too much). Not a robust physical presence.
Diaby: Provides a physical presence in midfield, well timed late runs, retains possession through close control, can carry the ball forward, provides some defensive work rate, good shot.
Cons: Often stays too long on the ball, tackling technique is sometimes lacking, lacks form and fitness, injured often.
Cazorla: Quick, close control, provides attacking flair, can shoot from any range, creative spark, two-footed, can create space over a short distance, can drop deep to help "facilitate" play in the middle of the park if necessary.
Cons: Little defensive effort, lacks physicality, shoots too often, misplaces ranged passes frequently, lacks understanding with new team mates.
Ramsey: Work rate, creative ideas, shooting technique, physically robust, defensive effort, passing range.
Cons: Execution of ideas, composure, takes too long on the ball, form, confidence, opts to contain at times when he should tackle.
...etc, etc.
Weak links seem to be Diaby and Ramsey by my reasoning. We could really use a Wilshere.
And the thread topic:
Gervais: Dribbling ability, speed, provides width, puts in a defensive effort, provides dangerous cutbacks, wins corners, The Forehead.
Cons: Confidence, shooting technique, composure, combination play is mediocre, The Forehead.
Other: Looks like a spastic voodoo zombie chicken.
