Arsenal legend names 4 summer transfer targets for Arteta

Former Arsenal star Thomas has suggested key areas Arteta must strengthen and the players that could help him do so.

Michael Thomas, the man whose injury-time goal in 1989 famously won Arsenal the league title at Anfield, has given his thoughts on what the club need to recapture their glory days.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has endured a challenging first full campaign. The club sit down in ninth-place in the Premier League, their FA Cup title defense is over, and the Europa League may represent their best chance of European football for next season.

But while things haven’t gone according to plan, Thomas is encouraged by Arteta and his ‘no-nonsense policy’.

The 53-year-old, who also played for Liverpool during his career, has also suggested four summer signings in Achraf Hakimi (Inter Milan), Ryan Bertrand (Southampton), Yves Bissouma (Brighton), and Real Madrid loan star Martin Odegaard.

“The recruitment hasn’t been the best at times but the culture at the club has allowed them to get into a headspace where they’re almost happy to just be there, not challenging for the majors,” Thomas told Goal.

“Credit where it’s due, Arteta looks like he is bringing back what it means to play for the shirt. He has a no-nonsense policy.

“But it’s going to take time and good recruitment to close the gap that has opened up. Liverpool are on a different level of the process right now.

“I do believe, however, that except for Manchester City, Arsenal are very capable of beating all the teams above them right now.

“But can they perform week in, week out? That’s what we need to see.”

Quizzed on where Arsenal need to strengthen to challenge City, Thomas replied: “There are a few areas.

“But it can all depend on the finish to the season and whether they qualify for Europe or not.

“I think a right-back is needed and I am liking the links with Hakimi at Inter. I saw him at Dortmund and thought this guy has an engine with some quality.

“Cover at left-back is essential. [Kieran] Tierney is fantastic and seems to only be getting better, but someone with experience who can still offer something, like Bertrand, would be good in there.

“Bissouma of Brighton would be my pick for a partner to Thomas Partey in central midfield. Both are solid, can use the ball well and are 90-minute players.

“Finally, keep Odegaard! He has great vision and works extremely well.”