If there’s one thing Arsene Wenger deserves immense credit for during his reign as Arsenal manager, it is his willingness to stand by players even when they struggle.

Laurent Koscielny looked shaky when he first arrived at the Emirates but is now arguably the best defender in the league, while Aaron Ramsey hit form a couple of seasons ago despite previously not looking the part.

While this means they have always had a side capable of making the top-four while spending less than their rivals, it could be argued that they have missed out on more success by sticking with inconsistent or less than top-class players.

Olivier Giroud is one man who divides the Arsenal faithful.

For years they have argued he isn’t good enough and should be sold, but he recently showed what he is capable of with a brace from the bench against Sunderland.

There are players who haven’t made such an impact. Here are THREE examples…..

MATHIEU DEBUCHY

Mathieu Debuchy is a good example of a solid player who just never made an impact due to circumstances out of his control.

The right-back made a solid start to his Arsenal career but was unlucky to have his starts limited by injuries, and the emergence of Hector Bellerin as the club’s leading right-back.

With Carl Jenkinson fit again and impressing on loan at West Ham, it’s hard to see a place for the Frenchman, so it would probably be better for both parties if he was allowed to find a new club.

ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN

With Jack Wilshere’s loan for first-team football long overdue, you have to wonder why Wenger hasn’t yet tried the same thing with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

The 23-year-old has always had talent but has never really come close to showing it on a consistent basis.

A few seasons ago it may have been worth loaning Oxlade-Chamberlain out for some first-team experience but now you have to wonder whether Wenger prefers to keep him around as cover with Alexis Sanchez, Theo Walcott and Alex Iwobi undoubtedly above him in the pecking order.

If that’s the case, better to cash in now and bring in someone who can develop further.

PER MERTESACKER

When Per Mertesacker arrived at Arsenal their defence was in dire straits.

They had just been thrashed 8-2 by Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United having lost a number of key players over the summer.

Mertesacker was brought in and steadied the Arsenal defence, bringing a calmness to his many defensive partners during his first season.

He and Koscielny formed a solid partnership that turned the Gunners backline into a formidable defence.

Over the last 12 months or so however, the big German has struggled with form and fitness with Shkrodan Mustafi brought in to replace him.

While the Gunners shouldn’t forget what he did for them, it’s time to say goodbye to their captain.