Legend Keown makes case for the defence

ARSENAL legend Martin Keown believes his former side can still be crowned champions this season, providing they watch videos of Barcelona and learn how to defend together as a team.

Keown was a member of the famous Arsenal back four that kept the club in title contention through the late 1990s and early 2000s and went an entire season unbeaten in 2003-4 — a distant memory these days, given the team’s defensive frailties. But he still sees hope for Arsene Wenger’s side if they can beat Chelsea tonight.

“I still believe this Arsenal team can win the title. They’re in the hunt,” he said. “I saw Chelsea play recently and in all honesty they had a lot of problems in their side. People weren’t willing to work for one another and they had lost their direction and desire. So it’s all there for the taking — if only the whole team can work together.

“People blame the Arsenal defence, but I don’t agree — perhaps the defence is a work in progress, but it’s about the whole team. You need to defend as a team. This team needs to learn that lesson.”

Keown, who won three Premiership titles and three FA Cups under Wenger, has a clear idea of what he wants to see in future.

“These days if you compare Arsenal to the likes of Barcelona, you simply can’t accuse Iniesta or Xavi of not working hard enough when they’re out of possession. I think that if they can do it, then anyone can do it,” he said.

“You have to keep reminding them. They’re like mavericks, they’re creative individuals, but football is about people being aware of their roles and their responsibilities in the team.

“You win together, you lose together. The full-backs are able to attack with venom and energy, so why can’t wide players defend with the same energy?

“It’s about a willingness to work for one another. Once you get that and gel, it’s a joy to be part of and everyone is pulling in the right direction. You can’t carry any passengers.”