Are more fixtures for Arsenal a good thing?

Following Arsenal's failure to finish off Leyton Orient in the FA Cup yesterday, the general consensus from the English media has been that Arsenal have seriously dented their title chances due to a severe fixture pile-up. However, although some members of the Arsenal team, such as Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas, may not need any additional fixtures to reach top form this season, many other Gunners are in dire need of sustained game time.

The fixture against Orient was a shining example of the likes of Andrey Arshavin performing at a far higher level than that displayed in recent games, with the player starting to regain his composure on the ball after experiencing relatively more match time. With the likes of Denilson and Gibbs proving in the game against Orient that they really do need some more games if they are going to be able to have any effect whatsoever on Arsenal's challenge on four fronts, it seems clear that the advantages of yesterday's draw don't necessarily find themselves drowned out by the downsides. The Champions League betting certainly suggests they face a tough time in that competition.

Although Gibbs and Denilson may not be first choice, or even in some cases second choice, squad strength is simply key to all great teams ending the season with multiple trophies, something that the current Barcelona side and the historic Manchester United treble-winning squad prove all too well. However, should Wenger fail to give these players the amount of time required by refusing to rotate his squad in a way that keeps his players both strong and fresh, he'll find out all too quickly just how thin the Gooners' patience is wearing. The Arsenal betting suggests they should win a trophy this season, and failing to do so would be a huge blow.

If, however, Wenger is successful, and the players in question show that they are more than capable of stepping up to the plate when it counts, then the extra games that Arsenal are playing can only be seen as a great chance for the team to step up and enjoy their unique brand of football.