Former Arsenal player Charlie Nicholas has slammed the Gunners' defence ahead of their game against Burnley this weekend.
Mikel Arteta's side have conceded 34 goals in the Premier League so far this season, which is more than the likes of Sheffield United and Crystal Palace and the same as 15th-placed Brighton.
They have kept just four clean sheets in the division all season, and fans have been vocal in their criticism of the likes of Shkodran Mustafi, who made another big error in the 2-2 draw with Chelsea.
Arteta has spoken of his desire to improve his back-line, and has brought in Spanish centre-back Pablo Mari from Flamengo to try to help the situation.
But speaking to Sky Sports Nicholas said: " Arsenal fans do appreciate what Mikel Arteta is trying to do, bringing appetite and energy to the team and giving his side the chance to learn from the philosophy he has brought in. The young players have bought into it.
"I think he has inherited a mess, though. To draw 12 games is a scandal and the defence has been useless. Perhaps Pablo Mari will be able to bolster it- we'll see.
“Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is coming back fresh, which could be the difference.”
Arsenal's leading goalscorer Aubameyang returns after serving the last of his three game suspension for the straight red card he received against Crystal Palace, while Mari could be in line to make his debut against the Clarets.
The Gunners are still only 10 points behind fourth-placed Chelsea, although at the same time they are just seven points off 18th-placed Bournemouth, and Arsenal fans will no doubt simply be hoping for a strong end to the season.
They are still in contention in the Europa League and FA Cup too, and have a good chance of progression in the latter after drawing League One side Portsmouth in the last-16.
