[ad_pod ]

In Arsenal’s last match - the 5-1 thrashing of newly-promoted Fulham at Craven Cottage - Aaron Ramsey was introduced from the bench and proceeded to provide an assist and score one of the most sublime goals of the season so far. In normal circumstances, such a contribution would be enough to earn inclusion in the starting XI for the following fixture.

However, Ramsey’s current situation with the Gunners is not normal. As reported by the BBC, Arsenal recently withdrew their contract offer to the 27-year-old, meaning he will now leave the club at the end of this season when his current contract expires. The Welshman’s days at the Emirates Stadium are numbered.

Therefore, Unai Emery must begin preparing for life without Ramsey, which ought to begin with finding a best first XI that does not include the long-serving midfielder. 

However, Ramsey remains a top class player and the manager would be foolish to deny himself the player’s quality whilst he remains at his disposal. Striking the balance between getting the best out of Ramsey and not becoming reliant upon him will be crucial to managing his last few months at the club.

[brid autoplay="true" video="305269" player="12034" title="Are Emery's Arsenal Silently Gunning For The Title"]

With that in mind, we asked Arsenal fans if they’d like to see the Wales international in the starting line up to face Leicester City on Monday night. 62% voted for him to be named amongst the substitutes again, where his quality can be called upon if needed. See the full results below.