Good day,
Got quite the tasty treat of a derby tomorrow! I am excited as I think the Arsenal are in prime position to send a message to the league and our closest competitors. Fortunately, and after some lackluster displays and equally frustrating results the Arsenal is at home playing against a seemingly wounded and injury-laden opponent.
I would feel much more comfortable if Rosicky and Walcott were available. Either from the start or late in the match either can turn a match on its head. I've always felt that Spuds were slow moving so not having TW14 is a bit of a let down. But as we all know and I'm happy to report, Nasri is back from his broken leg and could be used late in the match to much of the same affect.
Tottenham is without Modric, Lennon, and Defoe. Three potent attacking players are out so, in comparison, I won't complain too much. I had asked via Twitter if there is any player for Spurs that could create in an instant, or take the game by storm and get a goal. Of the available, Keane is the only player I can think of that, if given time, can finish consistently. I do have some concerns with Crouch's height but his effectiveness is dependent on the service. I am not sure if Bentley will find himself in the squad since Lennon is out but this combination could pose a problem. Unlike last season's home 4-4 draw we have a new CB TV5 who can challenge the crosses far more effective than Toure. If pressured, either by Diaby, Song or Eboue Crouch's influence can be neutralized.
The late draw at home left a bitter taste in my mouth because the goals conceded came from some ridiculous fortune. I feel that if Diaby and Song can boss the midfield, and really pressure the Spuds' midfield the goals scored then will not be scored tomorrow. I think Arsenal have enough steel in the middle with Song, and enough cutting down of space with Diaby's long legs to really cut the distribution up front.
I am confident that Arsene Wenger will exploit the fragility of the Spuds back line. I am fairly certain that Woodgate will start, since Redknapp has no others to choose from. An out-of-form CB is a striker's feast! I hope to see RVP line up with Arshavin, and Eduardo get the start. I think Bendtner would be best used coming on late in the match when legs have been tired, and he could get some service from a subbed-in Nasri. In contrast, Bendtner could start to muscle the back and then Dudu could come on late to take advantage of the battered Spuds. Either option is very potent and dangerous, and as I write this I realize that for once in some great time we have some very different options.
In closing, tomorrow's contest is a derby and anything can happen. Fortunately, Tottenham is missing three very influential players and Arsenal really should exploit their misfortune. I feel there will be enough quality in the squad for the Arsenal to get 3 pts and the goals could come from any place. My hope is that Song is involved in either another quality assist to RVP, or he battles through and gets a goal himself. Sometimes I just get the feeling that a player is due, and I feel tomorrow could be his day. The distribution up to our attacking trio will be crucial to the goals scored so if Cesc and Diaby can get passes off and completed I feel the three will take care of the rest. I'm not a betting man but I feel there is enough, and the time is right for the Arsenal to put in a complete performance. Goal early to Arshavin; Song mid-to-late 1st half, or early 2nd; RVP to kill it off with his chocolate leg, 3-nil to the Arsenal.
ArsenaLOS
Friday, October 30, 2009
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Post-match Rant: AFC v West Ham
Hi,
I thought I'd capture the stress/emotion of losing 2 pts so quietly and easily to bottom dwelling, West Ham. Up 2-nil and instead of bringing 3 pts back to the Emirates the Arsenal bagged one. This is unacceptable; more importantly this is not the result Champions get on the road in derby matches. So what the hell happened?
I think we witnessed the dropping of Mannone. Almunia has plenty of gaffs but Vito's great save but failed parry away from the goal and instead to the center for a Hammers' tap-in gets him dropped. This is very basic stuff. Push the ball wide if you can't catch it. The penalty conceded by Song was soft as a baby's blanket and Mannone can't really be faulted for that concession. It's a shame but I think Almunia is back in the fold.
Long periods of possession yielded nothing. This isn't anything new to the fans of the Arsenal. We are treated to mass possession most weeks, and it has become expected that we'll get one or two goals. Today, Arsenal got two goals and called it a day. Instead of pushing for a third, many of our movements were too horizontal without any imagination. Rosicky missing today's match was evident as so many footballs went through Song, Eboue and Diaby instead of our talisman and captain, Fabregas. I feel a major reason why the third goal never game is because Cesc went long periods without the ball and others took over his distribution duty at a fraction of his quality.
Eboue was everywhere he wasn't supposed to be. I think the boy needs specific training on staying in his position, or at the very least on his side of the pitch. Many will say he has freedom to roam, which is fine if you are Messi but he understands space and has the quality to not clog up space for others. Eboue clogged up Arshavin's dribbling and passing lanes so much it is no surprise that he was unable to feed Robin up front. Eboue drifted into Song and Diaby's space just as well and often got in the way, filling open space with his black hole touch and indecision. There was immediate improvement on the left wing as Bendtner came in to give Eboue some respite; in short, B52 stayed on the left wing, staying wide and opening the center up so Cesc, Song and Diaby could move forward and distribute.
Many will slate Diaby but he wasn't bad today. Diaby does very well in possession and can spot a pass at times but where he falters is in his effort. Late in the match while Arsenal were up 2-1 I could see Diaby lightly jogging back from his central position. For those of you who play in the central mid position you know that jogging back slowly is unacceptable. It's no wonder that Song poked at the ball and slightly touched Cole for the penalty when his legs were tired of covering for Diaby. For all of his quality Diaby's work rate and effort is so poor that he is a liability. I am happy that Nasri will be challenging him for that starting XI role, and may the best player win.
At the end of the day, the team work rate effort was poor after being up 2-nil. I feel that if the team collectively picked it up a gear by pressuring every West Ham player, defending hard and forcing errant dribbles and passes than Arsenal would have got a result. This comes down to individual players wanting to work hard for 90 minutes. The only thing I can think is that Wenger needs to think about what players are up for it, from start to finish with enough quality to get wins not draws. I think, as a fan, I just want to see players bleed Arsenal red and leave the pitch completely exhausted. If the result is unfavorable at least I know they tried and died on the pitch. It's not much to ask for.
Arsene has a lot to think about. It must have been hard for him to select Mannone over a fit Almunia but moving forward Mannone's inexperienced error will make selecting Almunia an easy task. With Nasri likely starting this week versus Liverpool and Diaby back to his old lazy self it seems the obvious choice to select Samir again once match fit. So with tough decisions made and 2 pts thrown away it's onward and upward. Not use in dwelling on today's result, so here's to hoping the lads learn that the match is played for 90 minutes and the work rate must be at its highest at all times.
ArsenaLOS
I thought I'd capture the stress/emotion of losing 2 pts so quietly and easily to bottom dwelling, West Ham. Up 2-nil and instead of bringing 3 pts back to the Emirates the Arsenal bagged one. This is unacceptable; more importantly this is not the result Champions get on the road in derby matches. So what the hell happened?
I think we witnessed the dropping of Mannone. Almunia has plenty of gaffs but Vito's great save but failed parry away from the goal and instead to the center for a Hammers' tap-in gets him dropped. This is very basic stuff. Push the ball wide if you can't catch it. The penalty conceded by Song was soft as a baby's blanket and Mannone can't really be faulted for that concession. It's a shame but I think Almunia is back in the fold.
Long periods of possession yielded nothing. This isn't anything new to the fans of the Arsenal. We are treated to mass possession most weeks, and it has become expected that we'll get one or two goals. Today, Arsenal got two goals and called it a day. Instead of pushing for a third, many of our movements were too horizontal without any imagination. Rosicky missing today's match was evident as so many footballs went through Song, Eboue and Diaby instead of our talisman and captain, Fabregas. I feel a major reason why the third goal never game is because Cesc went long periods without the ball and others took over his distribution duty at a fraction of his quality.
Eboue was everywhere he wasn't supposed to be. I think the boy needs specific training on staying in his position, or at the very least on his side of the pitch. Many will say he has freedom to roam, which is fine if you are Messi but he understands space and has the quality to not clog up space for others. Eboue clogged up Arshavin's dribbling and passing lanes so much it is no surprise that he was unable to feed Robin up front. Eboue drifted into Song and Diaby's space just as well and often got in the way, filling open space with his black hole touch and indecision. There was immediate improvement on the left wing as Bendtner came in to give Eboue some respite; in short, B52 stayed on the left wing, staying wide and opening the center up so Cesc, Song and Diaby could move forward and distribute.
Many will slate Diaby but he wasn't bad today. Diaby does very well in possession and can spot a pass at times but where he falters is in his effort. Late in the match while Arsenal were up 2-1 I could see Diaby lightly jogging back from his central position. For those of you who play in the central mid position you know that jogging back slowly is unacceptable. It's no wonder that Song poked at the ball and slightly touched Cole for the penalty when his legs were tired of covering for Diaby. For all of his quality Diaby's work rate and effort is so poor that he is a liability. I am happy that Nasri will be challenging him for that starting XI role, and may the best player win.
At the end of the day, the team work rate effort was poor after being up 2-nil. I feel that if the team collectively picked it up a gear by pressuring every West Ham player, defending hard and forcing errant dribbles and passes than Arsenal would have got a result. This comes down to individual players wanting to work hard for 90 minutes. The only thing I can think is that Wenger needs to think about what players are up for it, from start to finish with enough quality to get wins not draws. I think, as a fan, I just want to see players bleed Arsenal red and leave the pitch completely exhausted. If the result is unfavorable at least I know they tried and died on the pitch. It's not much to ask for.
Arsene has a lot to think about. It must have been hard for him to select Mannone over a fit Almunia but moving forward Mannone's inexperienced error will make selecting Almunia an easy task. With Nasri likely starting this week versus Liverpool and Diaby back to his old lazy self it seems the obvious choice to select Samir again once match fit. So with tough decisions made and 2 pts thrown away it's onward and upward. Not use in dwelling on today's result, so here's to hoping the lads learn that the match is played for 90 minutes and the work rate must be at its highest at all times.
ArsenaLOS
Saturday, October 24, 2009
End of Days For Some, Not Arsenal
Good morning, fans of your Arsenal FC
To preface this blog I am currently watch an interesting documentary about God vs. Satan on the History Channel. You know, good vs. evil. In times of despair, I find great comfort in having the Arsenal matches on the weekend with some sprinkled mid-week throughout the year. Maybe you're unemployed and had a terrible week of trying to find work; maybe you are working but had to work a double; maybe that child of yours won't let you sleep! In any case, if you can get away for 90 min a little, terrestrial delight of Arsenal football can make the day a little bit more bearable. I feel blessed that those of us who are Arsenal supporters have been gifted with the cognitive awareness to support such a grand club who play the game we cherish and love. The club is good, and so are its supporters.
This week the Arsenal had their annual general meeting, and on the day Arsene turned 60! Quite the feat to have had his last 13 years at Arsenal but also for him to ride out his "younger" years without much negative affect. Nothing major was reported but I found the following Wenger quote to be quite interesting:
To preface this blog I am currently watch an interesting documentary about God vs. Satan on the History Channel. You know, good vs. evil. In times of despair, I find great comfort in having the Arsenal matches on the weekend with some sprinkled mid-week throughout the year. Maybe you're unemployed and had a terrible week of trying to find work; maybe you are working but had to work a double; maybe that child of yours won't let you sleep! In any case, if you can get away for 90 min a little, terrestrial delight of Arsenal football can make the day a little bit more bearable. I feel blessed that those of us who are Arsenal supporters have been gifted with the cognitive awareness to support such a grand club who play the game we cherish and love. The club is good, and so are its supporters.
This week the Arsenal had their annual general meeting, and on the day Arsene turned 60! Quite the feat to have had his last 13 years at Arsenal but also for him to ride out his "younger" years without much negative affect. Nothing major was reported but I found the following Wenger quote to be quite interesting:
“We are in the middle today of two different ways to see the development of the game,” he explained.
“One is people with unlimited resources who do not care about balancing the budget and one, an attempt from the European Union to regulate that, control it, and get that out of the game.
“I believe that will happen and fortunately we are on line with the modern development of the European game and that is why I believe to keep a club strong is essential.”
“One is people with unlimited resources who do not care about balancing the budget and one, an attempt from the European Union to regulate that, control it, and get that out of the game.
“I believe that will happen and fortunately we are on line with the modern development of the European game and that is why I believe to keep a club strong is essential.”
So for some of today's big spenders, and based off of Wenger's words, we may see the end of the billionaire takeover sooner than expected. The world has changed since the economic collapse affected most nations across the globe, reaching from America to Asia and back again. It should be obvious and expected that such major change would also affect football. Heavily indebted clubs will need to address and balance their budget and while they attempt to do this slowly, over the course of several years, Arsenal will already be ahead of the curve due to Wenger's foresight.
Eventually, and sooner than they'd like, Chelsea will need to get new players. New, younger players will cost money and if the EU cranks down on the debt as hypothesized they will have no choice but to rely on their youth system feeding their 1st team. Abramovich won't have the power to just buy whomever he wants without first addressing the club's massive debt. Now, I know he could just wave his fairy's wand and debt-be-gone but he is a businessman and won't do that in one fell swoop. If he does he may look to sell as he'll have far too much going out (to debt, including operations, salaries, etc.) than coming in...it's sad times over at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea is really going to be in trouble soon, very soon.
One need not look too far to see other indebted (nearly wrote massive but City is nothing) clubs operating well beyond their means, and similarly taken over at huge costs to the club (IOU, City, LFC) Most of the big spenders are top 4 contenders who have spent and spent and spent without addressing their debt. Shame on the FA for promoting the Premiership as the world's greatest league at the expensive of its core. Anyway, amusingly, Scouse Nation, Spuds, and Chavs have all failed to gain the loans necessary to increase their ticket income via a new stadium. How else are they going to get the money fast and consistently? Sponsorships? Trophy money? Sponsors do pay a lot so we may see some of these clubs peppered with ads on their kits in the future as la Mexican League. But in reality, it's not enough. And as much as the cash prize is for winning trophies it's not enough to even dent some of the massive debts they've taken on. So maybe their youth can compete at the top level? Right, what youth? When was the last time you heard of any up and coming player coming out of these camps in the ilk of Wilshere, and Gibbs? I remember that Macheda kid who scored for IOU; Kakuta, Chelsea's lame and squandered attempt at getting youth. I can't think of any youthful LFC or City players...but I'm sure they have some but aren't quite Premiership quality. These indebted clubs don't have a way out of their predicament except the slow and painful paying back of their debt at the expensive of their leagues position. Again, if AW is right, and come on, who is going to argue with the professor, we could see Arsenal in prime position to reap the rewards of sustainability, both financially and in sport.
It is my belief that it is the End of Days for many but not for the Arsenal. We are witnessing the battle of Good vs. Evil - sustainability vs. excessive, irresponsible spending. In due time, those who have been able to spend willy nilly will be judged and will have to pay back their debts. Albeit slow or fast it will need to be done and that will in turn impact the club's ability to scout and attain top-quality talent. As for the Arsenal, AW will continue to get young, top talent and ween them through the club nurturing their potential to yield the fruition of silverware. It's worth mentioning that these young, malleable minds are likely naive and happy to be playing football...and getting paid for it. I don't believe the English 50% tax affects their psyche quite like it does an older footballer, which is a huge advantage to the Arsenal as we see so many young players at 19,20, 21 playing first-team football. As it is assumed, players peak around 28 and by then these players will have been playing top football for AFC for nearly 8 years, and it can be argued that it is fair to let them leave after this much time and commitment. In addition, Arsenal can still turn a profit on these sales. Now, losing players such as Hleb and Flamini, which really hurt us in season's passed, can be seen as examples to the youth that it is fatal to your career to leave the Emirates before you've matured fully under Arsene Wenger. A warning sign that a career's end can be nearer than you think; realize that what you have is good and choose honor over greed.
But for now, we live in the present and the war wages on. I believe Arsenal is approaching the pinnacle of its existence while its closest rivals are on a fatal decline. It's only a matter of time before the pendulum swings in AFC's favor and Elysium be ours. Keep the faith, be patient because soon the Champions return!
ArsenaLOS
Eventually, and sooner than they'd like, Chelsea will need to get new players. New, younger players will cost money and if the EU cranks down on the debt as hypothesized they will have no choice but to rely on their youth system feeding their 1st team. Abramovich won't have the power to just buy whomever he wants without first addressing the club's massive debt. Now, I know he could just wave his fairy's wand and debt-be-gone but he is a businessman and won't do that in one fell swoop. If he does he may look to sell as he'll have far too much going out (to debt, including operations, salaries, etc.) than coming in...it's sad times over at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea is really going to be in trouble soon, very soon.
One need not look too far to see other indebted (nearly wrote massive but City is nothing) clubs operating well beyond their means, and similarly taken over at huge costs to the club (IOU, City, LFC) Most of the big spenders are top 4 contenders who have spent and spent and spent without addressing their debt. Shame on the FA for promoting the Premiership as the world's greatest league at the expensive of its core. Anyway, amusingly, Scouse Nation, Spuds, and Chavs have all failed to gain the loans necessary to increase their ticket income via a new stadium. How else are they going to get the money fast and consistently? Sponsorships? Trophy money? Sponsors do pay a lot so we may see some of these clubs peppered with ads on their kits in the future as la Mexican League. But in reality, it's not enough. And as much as the cash prize is for winning trophies it's not enough to even dent some of the massive debts they've taken on. So maybe their youth can compete at the top level? Right, what youth? When was the last time you heard of any up and coming player coming out of these camps in the ilk of Wilshere, and Gibbs? I remember that Macheda kid who scored for IOU; Kakuta, Chelsea's lame and squandered attempt at getting youth. I can't think of any youthful LFC or City players...but I'm sure they have some but aren't quite Premiership quality. These indebted clubs don't have a way out of their predicament except the slow and painful paying back of their debt at the expensive of their leagues position. Again, if AW is right, and come on, who is going to argue with the professor, we could see Arsenal in prime position to reap the rewards of sustainability, both financially and in sport.
It is my belief that it is the End of Days for many but not for the Arsenal. We are witnessing the battle of Good vs. Evil - sustainability vs. excessive, irresponsible spending. In due time, those who have been able to spend willy nilly will be judged and will have to pay back their debts. Albeit slow or fast it will need to be done and that will in turn impact the club's ability to scout and attain top-quality talent. As for the Arsenal, AW will continue to get young, top talent and ween them through the club nurturing their potential to yield the fruition of silverware. It's worth mentioning that these young, malleable minds are likely naive and happy to be playing football...and getting paid for it. I don't believe the English 50% tax affects their psyche quite like it does an older footballer, which is a huge advantage to the Arsenal as we see so many young players at 19,20, 21 playing first-team football. As it is assumed, players peak around 28 and by then these players will have been playing top football for AFC for nearly 8 years, and it can be argued that it is fair to let them leave after this much time and commitment. In addition, Arsenal can still turn a profit on these sales. Now, losing players such as Hleb and Flamini, which really hurt us in season's passed, can be seen as examples to the youth that it is fatal to your career to leave the Emirates before you've matured fully under Arsene Wenger. A warning sign that a career's end can be nearer than you think; realize that what you have is good and choose honor over greed.
But for now, we live in the present and the war wages on. I believe Arsenal is approaching the pinnacle of its existence while its closest rivals are on a fatal decline. It's only a matter of time before the pendulum swings in AFC's favor and Elysium be ours. Keep the faith, be patient because soon the Champions return!
ArsenaLOS
Friday, October 16, 2009
Advantage Gibbs
Good evening, you googly Goons
I'm gonna get right to it, Clichy is out with a knock and Gibbs is starting tomorrow/today. Even though Clichy has been a main stay in the squad I am not too concerned about his absence. Last season Clichy went out at one of the most inopportune moments of the season, and he was replaced with Gibbs who had the gaff of all gaffs, slipping versus IOU and dooming the Arsenal to yet another trophy-less season. Was it his fault? Not really...I think we all felt bad for him instead of mad at him. We all make mistakes. Fortunately, Gibbs was able to get a good run of matches, gain match confidence as well as important experience. Tomorrow we'll see what he learned.
In many ways I feel more comfortable with Gibbs. I like that he is a midfield convert; in particular a central midfielder. Gibbs often gets deployed in the midfield for the Reserves but plays through the middle for the U21 England team. Clichy, on the other hand and as far as I know, has always been a left back. Clichy is a fantastic defensive presence but let's be honest here...even before his back injury last season he could have been directly responsible for many of our leaked goals eg going too far forward in an attempt to intercept a pass to the wing, only to be caught out on the counter. Clichy is a left back; only a left back.
In contrast, Gibbs is green to attempt these intercepts. It probably has to do with him knowing that a mistake for the 1sts can be fatal to his career; he already has his one major blemish vs IOU so he likely won't be as cavalier as Clichy in the tackle. I don't think Gibbs will lunge to tackle the ball unless he knows that he will get the ball cleanly and without mistake. Now, moving forward Gibbs is far better than Clichy. Utilizing his experience as a midfielder he is far better at crossing and seeking out those little spots that advance him forward in the attacking play eg supporting Nasri, then distributing through Cesc (last season) Clichy simply lacks this intuition, this vision to find those spots that some midfielders are just able to see. Clichy's crosses are often so poor that both @ArsenaLIND and I look at each other with awe and disgust. The same can be said for Sagna's service, and our rolling of our eyes when Eboue is right back and he places lovely crosses to our strikers. Love them or hate them but our starting left and right backs are world class but lying in their wake are two great defenders who are a bit better moving forward, crossing the ball to our attacking partners. It's really great that Arsene has these different options of play/style, and the competition for a starting XI place can't hurt, either.
In the end, I'm happy and anxious to see Gibbs get a go tomorrow. I think he will do really well, and I hope he is involved in an assist, or even a goal. At the end of the match we will all be able to express our opinion on whether or not he has done enough to keep his place. If i had to bet, and with talk from Arsene supporting Gibbs' development I would not be surprised if Gibbs and Clichy are rotated regularly from here on out. Competition is healthy and may the best left back win. Advantage Gibbs.
ArsenaLOS
I'm gonna get right to it, Clichy is out with a knock and Gibbs is starting tomorrow/today. Even though Clichy has been a main stay in the squad I am not too concerned about his absence. Last season Clichy went out at one of the most inopportune moments of the season, and he was replaced with Gibbs who had the gaff of all gaffs, slipping versus IOU and dooming the Arsenal to yet another trophy-less season. Was it his fault? Not really...I think we all felt bad for him instead of mad at him. We all make mistakes. Fortunately, Gibbs was able to get a good run of matches, gain match confidence as well as important experience. Tomorrow we'll see what he learned.
In many ways I feel more comfortable with Gibbs. I like that he is a midfield convert; in particular a central midfielder. Gibbs often gets deployed in the midfield for the Reserves but plays through the middle for the U21 England team. Clichy, on the other hand and as far as I know, has always been a left back. Clichy is a fantastic defensive presence but let's be honest here...even before his back injury last season he could have been directly responsible for many of our leaked goals eg going too far forward in an attempt to intercept a pass to the wing, only to be caught out on the counter. Clichy is a left back; only a left back.
In contrast, Gibbs is green to attempt these intercepts. It probably has to do with him knowing that a mistake for the 1sts can be fatal to his career; he already has his one major blemish vs IOU so he likely won't be as cavalier as Clichy in the tackle. I don't think Gibbs will lunge to tackle the ball unless he knows that he will get the ball cleanly and without mistake. Now, moving forward Gibbs is far better than Clichy. Utilizing his experience as a midfielder he is far better at crossing and seeking out those little spots that advance him forward in the attacking play eg supporting Nasri, then distributing through Cesc (last season) Clichy simply lacks this intuition, this vision to find those spots that some midfielders are just able to see. Clichy's crosses are often so poor that both @ArsenaLIND and I look at each other with awe and disgust. The same can be said for Sagna's service, and our rolling of our eyes when Eboue is right back and he places lovely crosses to our strikers. Love them or hate them but our starting left and right backs are world class but lying in their wake are two great defenders who are a bit better moving forward, crossing the ball to our attacking partners. It's really great that Arsene has these different options of play/style, and the competition for a starting XI place can't hurt, either.
In the end, I'm happy and anxious to see Gibbs get a go tomorrow. I think he will do really well, and I hope he is involved in an assist, or even a goal. At the end of the match we will all be able to express our opinion on whether or not he has done enough to keep his place. If i had to bet, and with talk from Arsene supporting Gibbs' development I would not be surprised if Gibbs and Clichy are rotated regularly from here on out. Competition is healthy and may the best left back win. Advantage Gibbs.
ArsenaLOS
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Is that TH14? International Break-down
Good day, everyone
Well, we're amidst the international break so it goes without saying that we'll be reading plenty of nonsensical articles regarding Arsenal players. Cesc to Barca? Yeah, that's the one. I am not sure how many times he needs to come out to the official site and to the news outlets about his commitment to the Arsenal. The only thing that matters is our captain does address these rumors immediately and puts them to bed. Fret not, he has it under control.
To mark Arsene's 13 year anniversary many of us saw former Arsenal great Thierry Henry at the home match vs Blackburn. As always, it is nice to see a former player pay homage to AW's achievements but I am well over TH14. TH14 did many great things for the club and I respect his efforts but I find it unacceptable that he committed his future to the Arsenal and then fucked off to Barcelona. Now, many rumors followed about his quick change of mind ranging from his home life troubles with his wife and him needing to get away from the country. I get that. Maybe it was a matter of him being in a terrible position and needing to get away from London and his imminent divorce drama but if that is the case he should have never talked up his love for the Arsenal and then bounced directly. To me, TH14 is now just a fan like myself, no more, no less and he should be treated as such.
Another interesting and amusing story emerged that young Theo Walcott got another jersey signed by his childhood hero, TH14. What a cute story. For some people it is nice to see that TW14 is a fan of greats like TH14 just like the rest of us but from a public relations point-of-view I don't think the story helped the Arsenal distance itself from its kids and young image. I believe that fans are tired of the Arsenal's association with kids who are repeatedly reported to be immature and not ready to mount a serious title challenge. Highlighting the fact that the team is young and players still look up to other professionals does not bode well when, at this level and regardless of age, Arsenal could be playing Barcelona at some point this season. AW has stated that this is the year that the kids must come of age, produce results, and win silverware. Publishing stories that continue to display the Arsenal as a team of youngsters amongst men must stop. It's a professional sport and, personally, I would like for these stories to be omitted for the sake of distancing our image of boys vs men.
Moving forward Arsenal got a sound result vs a stingy Blackburn. Two very odd goals were scored against the Arsenal but the opposition never threatened with any seriousness. The most important thing to take from the match is that when down the team responded and never lacked the belief that they would get the result.
The weekend before the international break presented the Arsenal with three points but we also picked up 2 points on Spurs, IOU, City, and Villa. Unfortunately, Chavs got 3 out of their tie with LFC but i am still not too worried about their win, at home. Note: Chelsea is going to be put to the test come January as many of their players will be called up for Africa Cup of Nations. Ridiculously overrated players like Kalou and Obi Mikel won't be as missed as consistent goal scorer Drogba and the Bison, Essien. In addition, the age of the squad will also be tested. Many of the players are at or just beyond their peak and they'll be half way through the season...without a transfer window to dip into! I anticipate them tailing off from a serious challenge come mid-February due to fatigue and injuries.
As for the Arsenal, I feel we are in line for a good challenge because we were able to offload two of our Africans to a rival, City. Now, last year's lack of depth is City's problem! Losing two crucial pieces of the spine of a team is going to be an issue for a congealing squad so like Chelsea I feel we'll see City fade around the same time. Now, Arsenal will sorely miss the emergence of Song but with Nasri's return and rumored ability to play as a holding mid we should do okay. In addition, Ramsey has grown in confidence and could get a good run of matches. Also, Denilson will be back in the fold by January, and Diaby could be put into the center a la PV4-style. Last, and with some luck, Eboue will stay in Africa.
I feel that IOU is going to struggle unless they get some creativity in the middle of the park. Carrick, Fletcher, Scholes, and Anderson are like the same player with different birth dates. Maybe Lady Alex is slipping a bit because none of those players are going to slide a slick, timed ball up into that lazy cunt, Berbatov, or Shrek Nasty with any sort of consistency. The only creative player is an aging Giggs, and he won't be able to sustain another year long, arduous run as a starting XI player. Valencia has proved to be one-footed and poo-Nani does too much dancing to be taken serious, except as a wonderful impersonator of early 80s Michael jackson. As we have seen thus far IOU is struggling with creativity and nicking that late goal. Ronaldo is missed and will prove to be far harder to replace than hypothesized.
And Liverpool. Jeez. Rafa's mix mash of a squad has now lost three matches and been relying far too much on Torres. If Torres goes down for any two week spell of injury, they are done. Where are the goals going to come from? Gerrard's influence going forward has been next to nil, and they are only getting the odd goal from Kuyt and Benayoun. Rafa's bench is shocking as Ngog, Babel and Dossena have proven to be one-hit wonders. I can't see anyone replacing Torres' goals but if he stays fit, and in-form they'll hover in the Top 4.
So, in reflection this international break, I feel that the Arsenal are right where they need to be to sustain a title fight. There is depth in every position and each player who gets a shot has delivered brilliantly. The pundits continue to berate our back line but the concession of goals can be attributed to our attacking style - our left and right backs move forward with the play in a 4-3-3 and sometimes are caught out on the break. More importantly is that for the goals we have conceded they have mostly been due to some unfortunate luck eg Diaby's own-goal header but for the rest we have responded and fought for a result eg vs S Liege, Blackburn. At the end of the day, the team that scores the most goals win and there doesn't appear to be any shortage of goals as they are flowing from the back, middle and front. I am optimistic that this team has the ingredients to be champions, and the right manager to deliver.
ArsenaLOS
Well, we're amidst the international break so it goes without saying that we'll be reading plenty of nonsensical articles regarding Arsenal players. Cesc to Barca? Yeah, that's the one. I am not sure how many times he needs to come out to the official site and to the news outlets about his commitment to the Arsenal. The only thing that matters is our captain does address these rumors immediately and puts them to bed. Fret not, he has it under control.
To mark Arsene's 13 year anniversary many of us saw former Arsenal great Thierry Henry at the home match vs Blackburn. As always, it is nice to see a former player pay homage to AW's achievements but I am well over TH14. TH14 did many great things for the club and I respect his efforts but I find it unacceptable that he committed his future to the Arsenal and then fucked off to Barcelona. Now, many rumors followed about his quick change of mind ranging from his home life troubles with his wife and him needing to get away from the country. I get that. Maybe it was a matter of him being in a terrible position and needing to get away from London and his imminent divorce drama but if that is the case he should have never talked up his love for the Arsenal and then bounced directly. To me, TH14 is now just a fan like myself, no more, no less and he should be treated as such.
Another interesting and amusing story emerged that young Theo Walcott got another jersey signed by his childhood hero, TH14. What a cute story. For some people it is nice to see that TW14 is a fan of greats like TH14 just like the rest of us but from a public relations point-of-view I don't think the story helped the Arsenal distance itself from its kids and young image. I believe that fans are tired of the Arsenal's association with kids who are repeatedly reported to be immature and not ready to mount a serious title challenge. Highlighting the fact that the team is young and players still look up to other professionals does not bode well when, at this level and regardless of age, Arsenal could be playing Barcelona at some point this season. AW has stated that this is the year that the kids must come of age, produce results, and win silverware. Publishing stories that continue to display the Arsenal as a team of youngsters amongst men must stop. It's a professional sport and, personally, I would like for these stories to be omitted for the sake of distancing our image of boys vs men.
Moving forward Arsenal got a sound result vs a stingy Blackburn. Two very odd goals were scored against the Arsenal but the opposition never threatened with any seriousness. The most important thing to take from the match is that when down the team responded and never lacked the belief that they would get the result.
The weekend before the international break presented the Arsenal with three points but we also picked up 2 points on Spurs, IOU, City, and Villa. Unfortunately, Chavs got 3 out of their tie with LFC but i am still not too worried about their win, at home. Note: Chelsea is going to be put to the test come January as many of their players will be called up for Africa Cup of Nations. Ridiculously overrated players like Kalou and Obi Mikel won't be as missed as consistent goal scorer Drogba and the Bison, Essien. In addition, the age of the squad will also be tested. Many of the players are at or just beyond their peak and they'll be half way through the season...without a transfer window to dip into! I anticipate them tailing off from a serious challenge come mid-February due to fatigue and injuries.
As for the Arsenal, I feel we are in line for a good challenge because we were able to offload two of our Africans to a rival, City. Now, last year's lack of depth is City's problem! Losing two crucial pieces of the spine of a team is going to be an issue for a congealing squad so like Chelsea I feel we'll see City fade around the same time. Now, Arsenal will sorely miss the emergence of Song but with Nasri's return and rumored ability to play as a holding mid we should do okay. In addition, Ramsey has grown in confidence and could get a good run of matches. Also, Denilson will be back in the fold by January, and Diaby could be put into the center a la PV4-style. Last, and with some luck, Eboue will stay in Africa.
I feel that IOU is going to struggle unless they get some creativity in the middle of the park. Carrick, Fletcher, Scholes, and Anderson are like the same player with different birth dates. Maybe Lady Alex is slipping a bit because none of those players are going to slide a slick, timed ball up into that lazy cunt, Berbatov, or Shrek Nasty with any sort of consistency. The only creative player is an aging Giggs, and he won't be able to sustain another year long, arduous run as a starting XI player. Valencia has proved to be one-footed and poo-Nani does too much dancing to be taken serious, except as a wonderful impersonator of early 80s Michael jackson. As we have seen thus far IOU is struggling with creativity and nicking that late goal. Ronaldo is missed and will prove to be far harder to replace than hypothesized.
And Liverpool. Jeez. Rafa's mix mash of a squad has now lost three matches and been relying far too much on Torres. If Torres goes down for any two week spell of injury, they are done. Where are the goals going to come from? Gerrard's influence going forward has been next to nil, and they are only getting the odd goal from Kuyt and Benayoun. Rafa's bench is shocking as Ngog, Babel and Dossena have proven to be one-hit wonders. I can't see anyone replacing Torres' goals but if he stays fit, and in-form they'll hover in the Top 4.
So, in reflection this international break, I feel that the Arsenal are right where they need to be to sustain a title fight. There is depth in every position and each player who gets a shot has delivered brilliantly. The pundits continue to berate our back line but the concession of goals can be attributed to our attacking style - our left and right backs move forward with the play in a 4-3-3 and sometimes are caught out on the break. More importantly is that for the goals we have conceded they have mostly been due to some unfortunate luck eg Diaby's own-goal header but for the rest we have responded and fought for a result eg vs S Liege, Blackburn. At the end of the day, the team that scores the most goals win and there doesn't appear to be any shortage of goals as they are flowing from the back, middle and front. I am optimistic that this team has the ingredients to be champions, and the right manager to deliver.
ArsenaLOS
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