They were the rock

During the late 80s and right through the 90s, this few men were the rock at Highbury. I am talking about Adams, Dixon, Bould, Keown and Winterburn. It may be quite unlikely we would see an all-English backline in an Arsenal team again…They played a huge part in what seems like the meanest defence in the then First Division. The combination of these individuals brought increased appeal to the art of defending.

They had courage, intelligence and determination. They presented themselves well with a truly formidable presence when the chips are down and the team is facing the crunch.

Tony Adams, who can argue that he is not the one who was so tireless in inspiring and ever urging his teammates on. Who else would be so passionate and resilient till the end? He is perhaps, one of the most influential captains or figures in the history of Arsenal. To me, no doubt, he is Mr Arsenal.

To gooners, we will know… Right is Dixon and Left is Winterburn. This two are the best…forever displaying the athleticism, enthusiasm, fiery bravery and alertness. They were efficient at the back and nimble flank raiders when the need arises. They possess the skills and speed of what some traditional wingers lack. Overlapping runs, whipping in wicked crosses and cracking open many a locked rearguard are just part of their repertoire. Mind you…they also have the knack of scoring cracking goals.

Next comes Bould and Keown. The central defenders. Tough, ruthless and uncompromising. They brought streetwise toughness to effective consistency to the pitch. I believe…for those trying to crack the Arsenal backline then, facing them must be a daunting task. I can’t say more… they are always there. Hoofing clearances, incisive tackles, neutralising strikers, heading dangerous crosses away and turning dangerous situations to a sea of calm are their hallmarks.

I musn’t forget Andy Linighan. I will never forget his blood covered face when he rose and sent a bullet header into the goal. It was at the final moments of extra-time in the Wembley replay against Sheffield Wednesday in 1993. That header prevented a penatly shoot-out and won the FA Cup.

They had, at all times, exuding authority at the rearguard for Arsenal, home and away, week in and week out. It is served out with unreserved enthusiasm and well-drilled discipline. In the movie, Full Monty, when the male strippers raised their arms in unison…quite strangely, it seems like a tribute to Adams and company, the upstretched arms screaming…”offside, offside”!

Their desire and hunger burnt so brightly towards the tail-end of their careers at Highbury. It would take exceptional players to replace them. Campbell, Luzhny, Lauren, Cole, Silvinho, Stephanovs, Cygan and company have came and gone. Now, the defensive duties have fallen on Hoyte, Clichy, Toure, Ebuoe, Gallas and Senderos. May this generation of defenders settle, meet the challenges and do their predecessors proud. The challenge right now is to serve with distinction.