The Curious Case of William Gallas

So, William Gallas is now continuing his efforts to further annoy everyone in the footballing world by signing for Spurs. The ex-Chelsea and Arsenal defender is, reportedly, having a medical at White Hart Lane today over a one year deal to join Tottenham with the move expected to be completed over the weekend.

I am unsure of this transfer personally. Not many transfers have this amount of pros and cons on any player so this is a peculiar one to say the least.

First, the cons. It's William Gallas. This is the same player that helped divide the Arsenal dressing room, moaned about playing out of position at Chelsea and moaned a lot to the media. The same William Gallas that sulked on the pitch when Arsenal drew 2-2 with Birmingham two years ago (the same game when Eduardo broke his leg) and the very same egotistical William Gallas that led France out at the World Cup where they mustered one point and one goal. I feel I have to mention this is the man that has played for both Chelsea and Arsenal and captained Arsenal. Could be worse though, he could also have played for West Ham!

However, with every con comes a pro. In Gallas we have a player that has captained his team in the Champions League and the World Cup, albeit, to a less than successful campaign. Coupled with Bassong and Dawson's performance against Young Boys on Tuesday night, Gallas' experience is a much needed attribute at the heart of the Spurs defence. Secondly, he is on a free. How many times will Spurs get the chance to sign a player with such an impressive CV for absolutely nothing. A multiple Premiership winner with Chelsea and, as I previously mentioned, captain of his club and national side. Thirdly, he brings some much needed competition at the back. With King a permanent doubt, Woodgate on the verge of retiring, this leaves Bassong, Dawson and Kaboul as our only recognised centre backs even though Huddlestone and Corluka can play there at a push. Gallas will add to this list and help mentor Bassong and Kaboul who are both still young and need an experienced head at the back if need be. Finally, he is determined to win. With Redknapp saying we can win the league and Dawson stating he is looking forward to playing the likes of Messi et al. (an interview he gave in the first 28 minutes of the Champions League Qualifier on Tuesday night), Gallas' determination to succeed could help Spurs push on from last season and secure, at least, another 4th place finish.

So, there are my pros and cons on the Gallas transfer and, personally, I'm still unsure of it all. Yes, he will aid the Spurs defence with his experience and he will add depth to the squad for nothing but he still brings an air of arrogance with him and the potential to divide the Spurs dressing room. Still, if he performs to his standards, I will happily cheers him on at the Lane especially if he nods one in against them lot down the road.

Hope you enjoy the read and will write again soon.

Laters,

Macca