Strengths
Since arriving at Fulham in 2008, Hangeland has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most physically imposing centre-backs and there is little doubt that his main strength is his aerial ability.
At 6’4″, the towering Texas-born star rarely loses an aerial dual – an attribute that would prove particularly effective for the Gunners, who traditionally struggle against the league’s more physical teams, such as Stoke and West Ham.
That said, for a big man Hangeland is an accomplished ball-player and his fine distribution from the back – and refusal to play long – would suit Arsenal’s passing game down to the ground (excuse the pun).
The current Arsenal centre-backs – particularly Thomas Vermaelen and Per Mertesacker – have been accused of lapses of concentration this term but the ability to stay consistently focussed for ninety minutes and beyond is one of Hangeland’s key characteristics. Quite simply, he is Mr. Dependable, and prefers to play safe than risk a silly mistake.
Despite his frame, the Norway international is also competent at dealing with tricky players and, while he is yet to score during the current campaign, he chipped in with six goals last season, suggesting he could be a weapon at both ends of the field for Arsenal.
COMMENTS