Arsenal’s Swede heads list of five most bizarre 2013/14 signings
Published:As the most off-script Premier League season in recent memory nears conclusion, it’s worth remembering some of the odder transfers which induce more head scratching than Brendan Rodgers on the Selhurst Park touchline
Arsenal may have secured a 17th crack at the Champions League this season and represent the heavy 1/4 favourites to lift the FA Cup, but one player who doesn’t deserve to revel in either the securing of a seat at Europe’s top table or potential Wembley glory is their Swedish midfielder.
Kim Kallstrom – Spartak Moscow to Arsenal on loan
It’s safe to say Freddie Ljungberg’s status as Arsenal’s, and the Premier League’s, greatest ever Swede is not under threat.
At 31, the former Lyon man has not ripped up any trees or even disturbed any weeds, completing just one 90 minutes from a miserly four appearances, even though the Gunners have been stricken by midfield injuries since his arrival.
Grant Holt – Wigan to Aston Villa on loan
Paul Lambert was clearly in search of some friendly faces at Villa Park back in January when he called upon the services of the former Norwich target man.
A single goal in 10 subsequent Premier League appearances is the net result.
Iago Aspas – Celta Vigo to Liverpool (£7m)
Some would say the slightly built Spaniard has been the victim of the success of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge’s most prolific partnerships.
However, that negates the fact he failed to cement a place in the side by not scoring in a string of starts when Luis Suarez was still banned at the beginning of the season.
Kostas Mitroglou – Olympiakos to Fulham (£11m)
If you’re going to spend this sort of dosh on the leading scorer in Greek football in order to secure Premier League survival, at least make sure he is fit enough to play first.
Marvin Emnes – Middlesbrough to Swansea (loan)
With Michu still crocked and Swansea seeming like they may be sliding in the wrong direction back in January, the Welsh club made the strange decision to bring in Emnes on loan.
Obviously persuaded by a two-goal, five appearance cameo on loan at the Liberty back in 2010, the Swans seemed to ignore that the Dutchman had only struck once for Middlesbrough all season.
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