I guess reasoned, researched analysis is wasted on you lot here in GW.

Meanwhile, clichy pretty much backs up the main thrust of the above.

Former Gunner Gael Clichy says it was the lack of squad depth that cost Arsenal the chance of silverware last season.

Speaking to Manchester City’s official site, Clichy spoke about his final season at the Emirates, saying, “It started well, just like the team, but then it just collapsed at the end of the season after the cup final”.

And he attributes the failure to lack of competition for places and an inability to cope with key absences. “That’s why you can see the importance of having a big squad because we had a few players who were out. And of course it’s difficult for a team to cope without Robin van Persie and Cesc Fabregas at the same time.

“You know, sometimes it’s difficult to have a lot of players, because the competition is hard, but as a team you need a big squad to go all the way, and that’s why I joined City”.