Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen is cautious of Chelsea striker Didier Drogba's threat

Arsenal ace wary of Premier League's most lethal weapon...

6 Feb 2010 12:35:00

By Alan Dawson

More On :  Arsenal FC, Chelsea FC, Didier Drogba, Thomas Vermaelen
EPL: Thomas Vermaelen, Arsenal v Wigan Athletic (PA)
Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen has offered his nominations for the Premier League's most dangerous attackers, and has placed Chelsea marksman Didier Drogba up among the best in the world.
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Drogba has a commendable record against the north London club, returning 10 goals from 11 appearances, and the Belgian captain is wary of the striker's threat when the Gunners face the league leaders on Sunday afternoon.

Vermaelen told the Daily Mail: "All the strikers in England are physical. I think [Didier] Drogba is the most physical, but there is more to him than that.

"He's one of the best in the world. He is so strong that you have to be careful. If you mark him too tight, he grabs you and he's gone.

"You have to adjust to the way he plays. If you are really convinced you can win the header, then you have to go for it. But sometimes he uses his body so well that when you jump, he can turn away and you've lost him.

"You have to be smart. Sometimes, let him control the ball and then mark him really tight."

Vermaelen is enjoying a formidable rookie season with the Gunners after adapting well to the pace and physicality of the English game, and the former Ajax defender also assessed two other Premier League strikers who had caught his eye.

Known primarily for possessing an aerial ability that seemingly belies his height, Vermaelen believes Bolton Wanderers forward Kevin Davies, together with Everton asset Tim Cahill, are two players who can pose a threat to his dominance in the air.

"Kevin Davies is one of the best," Vermaelen added.

"He's good with his head but he doesn't always jump. He just stands there using his body and holding you back.

"Everton's Tim Cahill is great in the air and he's not big."

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