Bendtner key to Arsenal's fortunes

A year ago, Nicklas Bendtner was being derided for some lacklustre performances in an Arsenal shirt, he even admitted himself that he played like a "schoolboy."

Now, though, Bendtner will face the burden of carrying an Arsenal team, replacing it's most potent weapon, Robin Van Persie. It was confirmed this week that the Dutchman will be out for around five months with ankle-ligament damage.

Eduardo and Carlos Vela, both undoubtedly top-quality finishers have been given the chance to fill Van Persie's boots, but with neither hitting the target since Van Persie's injury, doubts remain as to their ability to play as a lone-striker - a position where physical presence is needed, something which is sadly lacking in these two alternatives. Didier Drogba's match-winning performance against Arsenal on Sunday just highlighted this fact even more.

The truth is, only Nicklas Bendtner can be an adequate alternative to Van Persie.

Often thought of as just an old-fashioned target-man, the Dane is actually more than just height and strength. His performances in World Cup qualifying for Denmark, in which he scored three goals, prove he can keep calm in front of goal. The Copenhagen-born striker has also improved markedly on his link-up play after being played in wide areas by Arsene Wenger.

Bendtner is, however, currently sidelined with a groin injury, and expected back in around four weeks time.

The responsibility will therefore fall on Eduardo and Vela for the time being, but Van Persie's absence will be the opportunity Bendtner has been waiting for, and one he has to make the most of if he is to make a career at the club, and ultimately if Arsenal are to end their five-year wait for silverware.