There were more questions asked of Gilberto this season than any
other in his Arsenal career. The way in which he answered every
last one finally brought the praise the tireless Brazilian
deserved.
Shy and reserved off the field, the 30-year-old is the unsung
warhorse on it; his contribution to the cause often going unnoticed
alongside the flair and effervescence of Arsenals attacking
players. But with Thierry Henry sidelined for much of the 2006/07
campaign Gilberto captained the side with distinction, contributed
a personal best 11 goals, marshalled the midfield and finally won
the plaudits he had warranted for years.
One area in which the Brazil international truly excelled was
passing. From his role as the midfield anchor, Gilberto distributed
the ball with expert precision, often instigating one of Arsenals
trademark free-flowing counter-attacks. In the Premiership alone he
produced an impressive 302 passes of which 64 per cent found their
intended target. Only Cesc Fabregas can boast a better record
having contributed a staggering 414 passes.
Furthermore, he enjoyed his most successful season in front of
goal, notching more than hed managed in his previous four seasons
as a Gunner combined. The first of those strikes, a late equaliser,
will go down in history as the first ever Premiership goal by an
Arsenal player at Emirates Stadium. Another two came on Tottenhams
first visit to our new home, and overall six came in games which
Arsenal drew or won by a single-goal margin.
The midfielders 10 Premiership goals came off just 37 shots on
goal. In addition to those efforts that beat the keeper another
five found the target, one hit the woodwork and seven were blocked
en route.
Defensively his presence was equally valuable. The former Athletic
Mineiro man attempted 56 challenges in the league, coming out on
top on 32 occasions. Only Fabregas, Toure and Gael Clichy managed
more successful challenges. Gilberto also racked up 41 clearances
15 more than any other midfielder - 19 interceptions and five
blocks.
Players of Gilbertos ilk can easily go unappreciated and never
more so than in a title-challenging team. Squad-depleting injuries
and a captains armband finally put the Brazilian on a platform
last season, a platform that brought his true value to the
fore.
With much disruption to what was already a young and inexperienced
side Arsène Wenger needed a leader. In Gilberto he found a player
who was unfazed by the role and, judging by the statistics, chose
to lead by example.
