Why Arsenal MUST play their strongest team vs Bayern Munich

Arsenal have an uphill task in turning around their Champions League Last 16 tie with Bayern Munich after the disappoinment of last Wednesday's first leg.

Former Arsenal boss, George Graham believes that Arsene Wenger should play a weakened team in the Allianz Arena, so they can focus on the league title race. Graham described Arsenal's chances of getting through to the Quarter Finals as "near impossible" in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live. He went on to say: 

"Personally I'd play a weakened team because I think the second half of the first leg was like a practice match for Bayern."

To me this is a defeatest attitude. Many forget that Arsenal were superb in the Allianz last season and only lost the tie on away goals, so why shouldn't they go all guns blazing and take the game to Bayern?

Its a no lose situation. The win in Dortmund earlier this season should give the North Londoner's confidence that they can come back from the two goal defecit. They need to score at least 2 goals and the only way that is remotely possible, is with a full strength starting 11. 

Of course, Arsenal are very much in the title race and still in the FA Cup, but with Chelsea and Man City looking very strong there is an outside chance that Arsenal can win their 4th Premier League title, so the FA Cup is the best chance of silverwear this season, in my opinion.

However, there is no reason why Arsenal should play a weakened team against Bayern, which could lead to a dip in confidence prior to the title race run in. 

By Andy Turnbull
Follow @AJT_1994