The season kicked off yesterday and what a magnificent start by the Gunners.
We started with the team I picked yesterday lining up as follows
Almunia
Sagna
Clichy
Vermaelen
Gallas
Song
Denilson
Fabregas
Arshavin
Bendtner
Van Persie
Highlights are available http://www.101greatgoals.com/videodisplay/3207267/
I won’t talk you through the game or the goals, but i was particularly encouraged by the performances of Vermaelen, Song and Bendtner.
Bendtner created the first when he turned Baines inside out before laying the ball to Fabregas who teed up Denilson. He worked hard all day and looked a genuine threat. More of the same please Nicky.
Vermaelen had a simply outstanding debut. He dominated Jo in the air, looked composed on the ground and took his goal with real aplomb. I don't want to get carried away but he looks a real player and just the type of defender we need.
Song carried on in the same vein as last year. He covered ever blade of grass, he kept his passing simple and efficient and offered real protection for our back four. At the beginning of last season I thought Song would never develop into an Arsenal player, but I'm now eating a warm serving of humble pie. Well played Songy.
I was hoping to catch Everton cold but and actually backed us to win 2-1 but never in my wildest dreams would I have thought we would smash 6 up at Goodison against a talented, hard working and motivated Everton team. Well done boys keep it up.
The press have now jumped on the Arsenal bandwagon after writing us off all summer, they really are pathetic. I honestly believe with an addition or two in defence and midfield we could really have a go at the league this year.
I've got one eye on the Utd game as I write this and I have to say their squad looks weak I don't think they're the team they were last season. Chelsea looked an old tired team yesterday in a laboured victory over Hull. Liverpool are not the team the press are building them up to be. They rely far too heavily on the Torres and Gerrard and I think they will miss Xabi Alonso a hell of a lot.
There's a long season ahead and I hope we have a lot more days like yesterday, when I remember just how exciting it is to be an Arsenal fan.
Sunday, 16 August 2009
Saturday, 15 August 2009
Arsenal - Season Preview
Today sees the beginning of the Premier League 09/10 campaign and we have a tricky match away at Everton and it's about time I did a review of our squad.
Goalkeepers
Almunia has been around since the summer of 2004, but he has only really established himself as an Arsenal class keeper in the last 18 months. He was initially signed from Celta Vigo to provide cover for Big Jens but gradually began to replace him and became our number one in the 2007/08 season. In the last 18 months his standing has improved within the club to such an extent that he captained the club on a number of occasions and is now undisputed number one. He may not be the big name keeper some would like but there aren't too many better than him in the Premier League.
Behind Almunia we have Polish international Lukasz Fabianski who still has his doubters. Fabianski signed in the summer of 2007 for £2.5m and has provided cover for Manuel and appeared in all competitions for the Reds. He has only made a handful of performances for the Gunners in the league and he looks to be a great shot stopper but is a bit suspect coming off his line and coming out for crosses. He is only 23 so has time to improve.
Behind Manuel and Fabianski we have youngsters Vito Mannone and Wojciech Szczesny. Mannone made his debut for the club in the final day victory over Stoke but wasn't really tested. Having seen Mannone play for the reserves and in pre-season I think he hasn't got the ability to be an Arsenal keeper. Szczesny on the other hand seems to have real potential. He is a good shot stopper seems to be a more solid and has a bit of character about him.
Overall I think Almunia is a solid keeper but there isn't a whole lot of depth behind him.
Defence
I think in Sagna and Clichy we have two of the best full backs in the Premier League. Sagna is solid and has proved to be a fantastic signing since joining in 2007. Clichy been around for years and has replaced Ashley Cole with ease in our back four. He has improved defensively but could improve his final ball and distribution in the final third. An injury to Clichy provided Kieran Gibbs an extended run in the team last season. He came on leaps and bounds and looked a great prospect. He is a bit loose defensively but going forward he looks a real handful. On the right we have the Emmanuel Eboue to provide cover for Sagna. I’m not Eboue's biggest fan but he does provide decent cover at fullback.
In the centre of defence we have Gallas and Vermaelen who appear to be first choice. Gallas has had a mixed time of it since signing from Chelsea. He was surprisingly named captain when Henry left in 2007 but was stripped of the captaincy midway through last season. To me Gallas isn't a captain but he is the best defender we have at the club. If we are to have a successful season he needs to stay fit. Thomas Vermaelen has been signed to play alongside Gallas and hopefully he can be the centre back we desperately need. By all reports he is strong in the air and a good organiser which is exactly what we need.
Offering cover we have Johan Djourou and Mikael Silvestre. Djourou has been with the club since he was 16 and has developed into a good centre back. He has all the attributes to be a top defender but he needs to become more dominant. He needs to utilise his physique and dominate forwards the way Vidic or Terry do. The number of injuries he picks up is a serious worry. The less said about Silvestre the better. We signed him from Man Utd last season and he has never convinced our supporters. I always viewed Silvestre as the weak link in the Utd defence and he has now also lost the little bit of pace he once had.
I haven't mention big Phil as I think everyone accepts he's on his way.
Overall I think defensively we have a good set of fullbacks but could definitely strengthen in the centre. We were suspect there all last season and whether Vermaelen will be the dominant centre back we need remains to be seen.
Midfield
In our captain Fabregas we have one of the top centre midfielders in the world. If we can keep Fab fit this year he will be integral to any success we have. Alongside Fabregas we are likely to see Song and Denilson. Song developed throughout last season and was our most improved player. He improved his passing and upped his work rate and by the end of the year was one of our most consistent players. Denilson on the other hand seemed to get worse as the season progressed. He's not attacking, he’s not defensive and at times he looked lost as the boss continually played him. There were points last season where he desperately needed a rest but wasn't given a breather. Hopefully this season he will be used more sparingly.
This year is really make or break for Abou Diaby. He signed at the same time as Adebayor and Walcott and at first seemed to be the most talented of the trio. He has been shunted around playing centre midfield, left wing and second striker and has never really had a settled place in the team. Every time Abou gets a run in the team he picks up an injury that see him out for a couple o weeks, he always seems to be on his way back from the treatment room. This year he really needs to establish himself or it could be curtains for him. Aaron Ramsey arrived last summer for £5m from Cardiff and to me he looks as though he has all the ingredients to be a top class midfielder and I hope to see more of him this year.
On the right wing we have Andrey Arshavin and Theo Walcott fighting it out. Arshavin joined last January in one of the most protracted transfers in history. He had an immediate impact and I’m really looking forward to seeing him strike up a partnership with Fabregas. Walcott was one of our best performers in the first half of last season. He seemed to have a more physical edge to his game and his finishing had come on dramatically. Hopefully Theo can continue to improve and can justify his shiny new contract he signed this summer.
On the left wing we have Samir Nasri and Tomas Rosicky. Nasri joined last season and looks like a good capture for the rumoured £12m I have no doubts he'll go on to prove a great piece of business by the boss. We welcome back Tomas Rosicky from what seems to be about a nine year injury curse. If we can keep Tomas fit he will be like a new signing as he hasn't kicked a competitive ball in anger for 18 months. We forget just what a great player Tomas is. He's creative, enthusiastic and a real goal threat and I’ll be glad to have him back in the team. We also have Merida and Wilshere beyond that. Both are young exciting talents and will no doubt get a chance this season.
Overall I think if we sign a new defensive minded centre midfielder we will have one of the best midfields in world football. If you add a good defensive midfielder to Fabregas, and any of our wingers we have a great midfield.
Strikers
Van Persie is the automatic first choice up front. Last season was his first year that was uninterrupted by injury and he repaid Wengers patience with a great season. He has now been named vice captain and has signed a contract extension this summer. If he can continue his form from last season, I'm expecting a big year from Robin. Alongside Robin we have Nicklas Bendtner and Eduardo. Bendtner has his knockers amongst Arsenal fans but I think he showed last season he has improved dramatically. His all round awareness has improved and he has shown he can score goals against anyone. I think he will have a very big year. We have only seen fleeting glimpses of Eduardo since his horrendous injury in February 08. He has looked sharp in the games since his return but a series of niggling injuries has stopped him progressing to become a first choice player. I think Eduardo is the best finisher at the club and if we can keep him fit he will score 15-20 goals this year. Behind our first choice three we have Carlos Vela. Vela spent a couple of years on loan in Spain before returning last season. He showed glimpses of is undoubted talent last season in the Carling and FA Cup and I expect him to get more chances in the team this campaign. He is undoubtedly a big talent and we could have a genuinely world class player on our hands in a year or two.
Overall I'm happy with our attacking options and I don't think we will miss Adebayor at all.Our squad has undoubted quality but is weak in key areas. I think if we don't add to our current squad it could be a long hard season. However if we were to add a centre back and a midfielder I think we could go on to win the title I really do. Wenger I hope you’re reading.
We travel to Everton today, with a number of injuries. Fabianski, Djourou, Nasri, Rosicky and Diaby are all missing. As such I expect our team to be
Almunia
Sagna
Clichy
Gallas
Vermaelen
Fabregas
Song
Diaby
Arshavin
Bendtner
Van Persie
I think we will score up at Goodison but I'm a bit worried about our defence. I'm hoping we catch Everton cold and come away with a good victory. The result today could be a good indication of how our season will pan out.
Come back tomorrow for reaction from the game.
Goalkeepers
Almunia has been around since the summer of 2004, but he has only really established himself as an Arsenal class keeper in the last 18 months. He was initially signed from Celta Vigo to provide cover for Big Jens but gradually began to replace him and became our number one in the 2007/08 season. In the last 18 months his standing has improved within the club to such an extent that he captained the club on a number of occasions and is now undisputed number one. He may not be the big name keeper some would like but there aren't too many better than him in the Premier League.
Behind Almunia we have Polish international Lukasz Fabianski who still has his doubters. Fabianski signed in the summer of 2007 for £2.5m and has provided cover for Manuel and appeared in all competitions for the Reds. He has only made a handful of performances for the Gunners in the league and he looks to be a great shot stopper but is a bit suspect coming off his line and coming out for crosses. He is only 23 so has time to improve.
Behind Manuel and Fabianski we have youngsters Vito Mannone and Wojciech Szczesny. Mannone made his debut for the club in the final day victory over Stoke but wasn't really tested. Having seen Mannone play for the reserves and in pre-season I think he hasn't got the ability to be an Arsenal keeper. Szczesny on the other hand seems to have real potential. He is a good shot stopper seems to be a more solid and has a bit of character about him.
Overall I think Almunia is a solid keeper but there isn't a whole lot of depth behind him.
Defence
I think in Sagna and Clichy we have two of the best full backs in the Premier League. Sagna is solid and has proved to be a fantastic signing since joining in 2007. Clichy been around for years and has replaced Ashley Cole with ease in our back four. He has improved defensively but could improve his final ball and distribution in the final third. An injury to Clichy provided Kieran Gibbs an extended run in the team last season. He came on leaps and bounds and looked a great prospect. He is a bit loose defensively but going forward he looks a real handful. On the right we have the Emmanuel Eboue to provide cover for Sagna. I’m not Eboue's biggest fan but he does provide decent cover at fullback.
In the centre of defence we have Gallas and Vermaelen who appear to be first choice. Gallas has had a mixed time of it since signing from Chelsea. He was surprisingly named captain when Henry left in 2007 but was stripped of the captaincy midway through last season. To me Gallas isn't a captain but he is the best defender we have at the club. If we are to have a successful season he needs to stay fit. Thomas Vermaelen has been signed to play alongside Gallas and hopefully he can be the centre back we desperately need. By all reports he is strong in the air and a good organiser which is exactly what we need.
Offering cover we have Johan Djourou and Mikael Silvestre. Djourou has been with the club since he was 16 and has developed into a good centre back. He has all the attributes to be a top defender but he needs to become more dominant. He needs to utilise his physique and dominate forwards the way Vidic or Terry do. The number of injuries he picks up is a serious worry. The less said about Silvestre the better. We signed him from Man Utd last season and he has never convinced our supporters. I always viewed Silvestre as the weak link in the Utd defence and he has now also lost the little bit of pace he once had.
I haven't mention big Phil as I think everyone accepts he's on his way.
Overall I think defensively we have a good set of fullbacks but could definitely strengthen in the centre. We were suspect there all last season and whether Vermaelen will be the dominant centre back we need remains to be seen.
Midfield
In our captain Fabregas we have one of the top centre midfielders in the world. If we can keep Fab fit this year he will be integral to any success we have. Alongside Fabregas we are likely to see Song and Denilson. Song developed throughout last season and was our most improved player. He improved his passing and upped his work rate and by the end of the year was one of our most consistent players. Denilson on the other hand seemed to get worse as the season progressed. He's not attacking, he’s not defensive and at times he looked lost as the boss continually played him. There were points last season where he desperately needed a rest but wasn't given a breather. Hopefully this season he will be used more sparingly.
This year is really make or break for Abou Diaby. He signed at the same time as Adebayor and Walcott and at first seemed to be the most talented of the trio. He has been shunted around playing centre midfield, left wing and second striker and has never really had a settled place in the team. Every time Abou gets a run in the team he picks up an injury that see him out for a couple o weeks, he always seems to be on his way back from the treatment room. This year he really needs to establish himself or it could be curtains for him. Aaron Ramsey arrived last summer for £5m from Cardiff and to me he looks as though he has all the ingredients to be a top class midfielder and I hope to see more of him this year.
On the right wing we have Andrey Arshavin and Theo Walcott fighting it out. Arshavin joined last January in one of the most protracted transfers in history. He had an immediate impact and I’m really looking forward to seeing him strike up a partnership with Fabregas. Walcott was one of our best performers in the first half of last season. He seemed to have a more physical edge to his game and his finishing had come on dramatically. Hopefully Theo can continue to improve and can justify his shiny new contract he signed this summer.
On the left wing we have Samir Nasri and Tomas Rosicky. Nasri joined last season and looks like a good capture for the rumoured £12m I have no doubts he'll go on to prove a great piece of business by the boss. We welcome back Tomas Rosicky from what seems to be about a nine year injury curse. If we can keep Tomas fit he will be like a new signing as he hasn't kicked a competitive ball in anger for 18 months. We forget just what a great player Tomas is. He's creative, enthusiastic and a real goal threat and I’ll be glad to have him back in the team. We also have Merida and Wilshere beyond that. Both are young exciting talents and will no doubt get a chance this season.
Overall I think if we sign a new defensive minded centre midfielder we will have one of the best midfields in world football. If you add a good defensive midfielder to Fabregas, and any of our wingers we have a great midfield.
Strikers
Van Persie is the automatic first choice up front. Last season was his first year that was uninterrupted by injury and he repaid Wengers patience with a great season. He has now been named vice captain and has signed a contract extension this summer. If he can continue his form from last season, I'm expecting a big year from Robin. Alongside Robin we have Nicklas Bendtner and Eduardo. Bendtner has his knockers amongst Arsenal fans but I think he showed last season he has improved dramatically. His all round awareness has improved and he has shown he can score goals against anyone. I think he will have a very big year. We have only seen fleeting glimpses of Eduardo since his horrendous injury in February 08. He has looked sharp in the games since his return but a series of niggling injuries has stopped him progressing to become a first choice player. I think Eduardo is the best finisher at the club and if we can keep him fit he will score 15-20 goals this year. Behind our first choice three we have Carlos Vela. Vela spent a couple of years on loan in Spain before returning last season. He showed glimpses of is undoubted talent last season in the Carling and FA Cup and I expect him to get more chances in the team this campaign. He is undoubtedly a big talent and we could have a genuinely world class player on our hands in a year or two.
Overall I'm happy with our attacking options and I don't think we will miss Adebayor at all.Our squad has undoubted quality but is weak in key areas. I think if we don't add to our current squad it could be a long hard season. However if we were to add a centre back and a midfielder I think we could go on to win the title I really do. Wenger I hope you’re reading.
We travel to Everton today, with a number of injuries. Fabianski, Djourou, Nasri, Rosicky and Diaby are all missing. As such I expect our team to be
Almunia
Sagna
Clichy
Gallas
Vermaelen
Fabregas
Song
Diaby
Arshavin
Bendtner
Van Persie
I think we will score up at Goodison but I'm a bit worried about our defence. I'm hoping we catch Everton cold and come away with a good victory. The result today could be a good indication of how our season will pan out.
Come back tomorrow for reaction from the game.
Friday, 14 August 2009
Arsenal, Wenger, Blackpool and Fabregas
Well the weekends finally have some meaning again as the new season gets underway tomorrow.
Last season’s fourth placed team (us) travel to Liverpool to play the team who finished one place lower (Everton), in what is undoubtedly a very difficult start to the season. We travel up North without Nasri, Rosicky, Walcott, Djourou, Fabianski and Diaby and this will be an immediate test for our young squad. I will do a full review of the game and our chances for the forthcoming season tomorrow morning so come back and check in.
Anyway the main Arsenal news today is an interview given by Arsene Wenger to The Times and Daily Mail. For the full interview read below.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/arsenal/article6796014.ece
I would go as far as to say this is the most revealing interview the boss has ever given. He gives a real insight into his political, football and personal beliefs and we get a real insight into the world of Wenger. All I can say is we are lucky to have such a sensible, knowledgeable and thoughtful individual as the figure head for our club. The man who eventually replaces Wenger will have a very large shadow looming over him.
Blackpool are on the verge of signing one of our young guns on loan
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5491161,00.html
Blackpool boss Ian Holloway is refusing to name names so answers on a postcard if you know who it is. My guess is Hoyte, but we'll see in the coming days.
Barcelona have been told Fabregas isn't for sale.
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23732696-details/article.do?ito=newsnow
I don't think Fab will be going anywhere this season but I think next season we will have a much more difficult job hanging on to him. I think once Xavi's talents begin to wane (which will be in the next year or two), Barca will step up their interest in Fabregas, until then I don't see a spot in their team for him.
More tomorrow, when I will review the game and the season in more depth
Last season’s fourth placed team (us) travel to Liverpool to play the team who finished one place lower (Everton), in what is undoubtedly a very difficult start to the season. We travel up North without Nasri, Rosicky, Walcott, Djourou, Fabianski and Diaby and this will be an immediate test for our young squad. I will do a full review of the game and our chances for the forthcoming season tomorrow morning so come back and check in.
Anyway the main Arsenal news today is an interview given by Arsene Wenger to The Times and Daily Mail. For the full interview read below.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/arsenal/article6796014.ece
I would go as far as to say this is the most revealing interview the boss has ever given. He gives a real insight into his political, football and personal beliefs and we get a real insight into the world of Wenger. All I can say is we are lucky to have such a sensible, knowledgeable and thoughtful individual as the figure head for our club. The man who eventually replaces Wenger will have a very large shadow looming over him.
Blackpool are on the verge of signing one of our young guns on loan
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5491161,00.html
Blackpool boss Ian Holloway is refusing to name names so answers on a postcard if you know who it is. My guess is Hoyte, but we'll see in the coming days.
Barcelona have been told Fabregas isn't for sale.
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-sport/football/article-23732696-details/article.do?ito=newsnow
I don't think Fab will be going anywhere this season but I think next season we will have a much more difficult job hanging on to him. I think once Xavi's talents begin to wane (which will be in the next year or two), Barca will step up their interest in Fabregas, until then I don't see a spot in their team for him.
More tomorrow, when I will review the game and the season in more depth
Wednesday, 12 August 2009
Arsenal Roundup - Another Defender Linked - Subotic, Arsenification and our England Keeper
This morning I woke up all excited to see us linked with giant centre back Neven Subotic.
Reports of Ivan Gazidis being in Germany attempting to tie up a deal appear to be complete fabrication as his agent has now dismissed the rumours.
http://www.clubcall.com/arsenal/defender-move-no-go-931628.html
The move would make sense to me but seeing as his agent has poured cold water on it, there's no need to comment any further.
The club and Red Action are taking massive steps to try and improve the atmosphere at the emirates.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/exclusive/index.php?id=1268
Red Action and the club should be applauded for the attempts to bring some life to the Emirates. The idea to have murals and a shrine to Highbury plastered around the stadium are fantastic and will only add to the atmosphere and experience of the Emirates. The free scarf giveaway and the attempts to incorporate banners etc will help to involve supporters more and will hopefully help our fans engage more. I do however think we should keep the controversial Elvis song. I'm only just starting to remember the words!!!! I actually quite like it and just wish I wasn't the only one who sang it in my section!
Fabio Capello has rejected the chance of calling up Manuel Almunia to the England squad.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2583046/Fab-KOs-Almunias-England-bid.html
To tell you the truth I’ve got no real interest in international football but if I was Fabio I’d call him up. People will criticise having a Spaniard play for England but lets be honest he would a improve the squad. He's a better keeper than Man city reserve Joe Hart, the 40 year old David James, Championship keeper Scott Carson and Man Utd second choice Ben Foster.
I know fans won't relate to him at first but a couple of good performances would win the doubters over. Deco plays for Portugal, Senna for Spain and Kuranyi for Germany and they're all from Brazil and it’s not like it hasn't happened in other Sports. Kevin Pietersen and Mike Catt captained England in Cricket and Rugby and both are South African. Andy Caddick, Ricky Flutely, Henry Paul and Geraint Jones all came from New Zealand or Australia and no one complained when they represented England. I just think everyone makes more of fuss when it's football but is it really that big of a deal these days? I'm not so sure....
More Tomorrow....
Reports of Ivan Gazidis being in Germany attempting to tie up a deal appear to be complete fabrication as his agent has now dismissed the rumours.
http://www.clubcall.com/arsenal/defender-move-no-go-931628.html
The move would make sense to me but seeing as his agent has poured cold water on it, there's no need to comment any further.
The club and Red Action are taking massive steps to try and improve the atmosphere at the emirates.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/exclusive/index.php?id=1268
Red Action and the club should be applauded for the attempts to bring some life to the Emirates. The idea to have murals and a shrine to Highbury plastered around the stadium are fantastic and will only add to the atmosphere and experience of the Emirates. The free scarf giveaway and the attempts to incorporate banners etc will help to involve supporters more and will hopefully help our fans engage more. I do however think we should keep the controversial Elvis song. I'm only just starting to remember the words!!!! I actually quite like it and just wish I wasn't the only one who sang it in my section!
Fabio Capello has rejected the chance of calling up Manuel Almunia to the England squad.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2583046/Fab-KOs-Almunias-England-bid.html
To tell you the truth I’ve got no real interest in international football but if I was Fabio I’d call him up. People will criticise having a Spaniard play for England but lets be honest he would a improve the squad. He's a better keeper than Man city reserve Joe Hart, the 40 year old David James, Championship keeper Scott Carson and Man Utd second choice Ben Foster.
I know fans won't relate to him at first but a couple of good performances would win the doubters over. Deco plays for Portugal, Senna for Spain and Kuranyi for Germany and they're all from Brazil and it’s not like it hasn't happened in other Sports. Kevin Pietersen and Mike Catt captained England in Cricket and Rugby and both are South African. Andy Caddick, Ricky Flutely, Henry Paul and Geraint Jones all came from New Zealand or Australia and no one complained when they represented England. I just think everyone makes more of fuss when it's football but is it really that big of a deal these days? I'm not so sure....
More Tomorrow....
Tuesday, 11 August 2009
Arsenal Roundup - Hangeland, Chamakh, Hartson and Bendtner
The rumours around Brede Hangeland are refusing to die down.
According to reports emerging from Norway via Goonertalk the boss has given Fulham 48 hours to decide if the big Norwegian is available.
http://goonertalk.com/2009/08/11/hangeland-future-decided-in-next-48-hours/comment-page-1/#comments
To me Hangeland is the type of player we need, he's strong, dominant in the air and knows English football but my fear is he's not that good. I think he'll struggle with a lack of pace if he played in our defence. Fulham defend a deep line with no space behind for strikers to run into, whereas we defend a high line almost up to the halfway line and I think Brede will get caught out. I honestly think he if was to sign he wouldn't be an improvement on Senderos who had the same qualities and deficiencies as the Norway captain. I can’t see the boss splashing out the £15m Fulham want on a 28 year old. We'll soon see.
We haven’t made a new bid for Mourane Chamakh
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/11082009/58/ligue-1-bordeaux-deny-new-chamakh-bid.html
I really think we'll see Chamakh sign at 11:59pm on the last day of the transfer window for about £7m. Can't say I I’m overly excited about the prospect of it though.
Big John Hartson has taken another step on the long road to recovery by leaving hospital today.
http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/content/camden/hamhigh/sport/story.aspx?brand=NorthLondon24&category=Sportarsenal&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=sport&itemid=WeED11%20Aug%202009%2016%3A32%3A57%3A350
My thoughts are with you big fella, I really hope you pull through this.
Nicklas Bendtner is in discussions over a new deal.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5485213,00.html
I know Bendtner is a bit of a marmite type player (you either love him or hate him), but I think the boy's got a big future. He's 21, a full international, and has a great goal per minute record for the club. He's raw but I think if we persevere with him we could have a real player on our hands in a couple of years.
More tomorrow...
According to reports emerging from Norway via Goonertalk the boss has given Fulham 48 hours to decide if the big Norwegian is available.
http://goonertalk.com/2009/08/11/hangeland-future-decided-in-next-48-hours/comment-page-1/#comments
To me Hangeland is the type of player we need, he's strong, dominant in the air and knows English football but my fear is he's not that good. I think he'll struggle with a lack of pace if he played in our defence. Fulham defend a deep line with no space behind for strikers to run into, whereas we defend a high line almost up to the halfway line and I think Brede will get caught out. I honestly think he if was to sign he wouldn't be an improvement on Senderos who had the same qualities and deficiencies as the Norway captain. I can’t see the boss splashing out the £15m Fulham want on a 28 year old. We'll soon see.
We haven’t made a new bid for Mourane Chamakh
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/11082009/58/ligue-1-bordeaux-deny-new-chamakh-bid.html
I really think we'll see Chamakh sign at 11:59pm on the last day of the transfer window for about £7m. Can't say I I’m overly excited about the prospect of it though.
Big John Hartson has taken another step on the long road to recovery by leaving hospital today.
http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/content/camden/hamhigh/sport/story.aspx?brand=NorthLondon24&category=Sportarsenal&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=sport&itemid=WeED11%20Aug%202009%2016%3A32%3A57%3A350
My thoughts are with you big fella, I really hope you pull through this.
Nicklas Bendtner is in discussions over a new deal.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5485213,00.html
I know Bendtner is a bit of a marmite type player (you either love him or hate him), but I think the boy's got a big future. He's 21, a full international, and has a great goal per minute record for the club. He's raw but I think if we persevere with him we could have a real player on our hands in a couple of years.
More tomorrow...
Monday, 10 August 2009
Arsenal News - Fabregas and another rant
There is next to no Arsenal news today.
It looks like that mythical centre midfielder we crave isn't on the way.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5483614,00.html
Wenger has claimed he is happy with his current squad and won't be adding to it prior to the start of the season. That's no big surprise as the season is only 5 days away but why do we seem to put ourselves in this sort of position every season.
Our last 'proper' game was in May that means we've had three months to find a suitable player/s yet we find ourselves routing around the bargain bins in the sky sports created madness approaching deadline day. I know the boss professes to getting more value for money the closer you get to deadline day but you run the risk of missing out on players as we did last season with Xabi Alonso. A top midfielder could also be the difference in qualifying for the Champions League and or picking up vital early points in tough away games against Everton and Man Utd. I think for the sake of say a million pounds is it worth undermining our whole season? It’s vital we get off to a flying start this season as we need to build momentum and create some belief in both our players and fans and this would have been more likely had the boss invested in our problem positions, earlier on in the summer. If and I do say IF we add to the squad the new player has to bed into the club, find somewhere to live, adapt to a new culture, learn the language, build relationships with his team mates all in the midst of a congested fixture list. The best way for a player to gel into a new team is during the relaxed atmosphere of pre-season, where he can get up to speed against lesser teams not on September the 1st when we could be ninth in the league.....
Barcelona want Cesc.
http://www.thelondonpaper.com/thelondonpaper/sport/football/barcelona-may-still-bid-for-arsenal-skipper-cesc-fabregas
Well give us £50 million, Messi, Xavi, Iniesta and Henry back and we might consider it. No seriously we know Fabregas is going to head back to Spain at some point in his career but it won't be this summer. He'll sit tight and head back to Barcelona next summer or the year after leading us to the title and the Champions League
More tomorrow...
It looks like that mythical centre midfielder we crave isn't on the way.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_5483614,00.html
Wenger has claimed he is happy with his current squad and won't be adding to it prior to the start of the season. That's no big surprise as the season is only 5 days away but why do we seem to put ourselves in this sort of position every season.
Our last 'proper' game was in May that means we've had three months to find a suitable player/s yet we find ourselves routing around the bargain bins in the sky sports created madness approaching deadline day. I know the boss professes to getting more value for money the closer you get to deadline day but you run the risk of missing out on players as we did last season with Xabi Alonso. A top midfielder could also be the difference in qualifying for the Champions League and or picking up vital early points in tough away games against Everton and Man Utd. I think for the sake of say a million pounds is it worth undermining our whole season? It’s vital we get off to a flying start this season as we need to build momentum and create some belief in both our players and fans and this would have been more likely had the boss invested in our problem positions, earlier on in the summer. If and I do say IF we add to the squad the new player has to bed into the club, find somewhere to live, adapt to a new culture, learn the language, build relationships with his team mates all in the midst of a congested fixture list. The best way for a player to gel into a new team is during the relaxed atmosphere of pre-season, where he can get up to speed against lesser teams not on September the 1st when we could be ninth in the league.....
Barcelona want Cesc.
http://www.thelondonpaper.com/thelondonpaper/sport/football/barcelona-may-still-bid-for-arsenal-skipper-cesc-fabregas
Well give us £50 million, Messi, Xavi, Iniesta and Henry back and we might consider it. No seriously we know Fabregas is going to head back to Spain at some point in his career but it won't be this summer. He'll sit tight and head back to Barcelona next summer or the year after leading us to the title and the Champions League
More tomorrow...
Sunday, 9 August 2009
Valenica Roundup and a pre-season rant
We played our last pre-season game against Valencia last night at the Mestalla. We suffered a comprehensive 2-0 defeat against Spain’s 5th best team .
http://www.arsenal.com/match-menu/3174554/first-team/valencia-v-arsenal?tab=report
We started with pretty much our strongest eleven (apart from Sagna) and to be honest we were lucky to get away with a 2-0 defeat. We seemed toothless upfront and defensively inept, if this is the indicator for our team against Everton next week I am seriously worried. We don't seem to have learned anything from last season. We are so open defensively and against good sides we will be found out. There is nothing in centre midfield stopping teams streaming onto our back four. Song came on leaps and bounds last year but should we really be heading into the season with him as our only recognised defensive midfielder? I think its utter lunacy and I'm not the only one.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/editorial/index.php?id=182
I've got to say i agree with everything in the article.
We're about to ditch any move for Vieira.
http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2009/08/09/1430214/arsenal-to-ditch-move-for-patrick-vieira-report
I've always been a staunch supporter of Wenger but if he doesn't buy a defensive midfielder he is making a rod for his own back. I have never heard such venom aimed at Wenger as there was last year and those who were still sitting on the fence won't be keeping quiet this year if we have another disastrous season. I've had a season ticket for 20 years, I'm paying £1400 this year and I won't renew next season if we have another season as bad as last year.
It hurts to see Hull fans taking the piss out of Arsenal when you've just paid £60 quid to see your midfield not close down Geovanni when he's 30 yard out and you defence unable to defend a high ball five minutes later. It hurts to see your team 4-2 up against a Spurs team bottom of the table in injury time and 2 minutes later to see their 200 fans still at the ground jumping around like they've won the title because you can't close a game out. It hurts to go 4-3 up at Anfield in injury time and have no confidence in your comical defence to hold out. It hurts to get turned over 4-1 at home by a shit Chelsea team because you can't defend. It hurts to get battered 3-0 at against a City team who were even worse defensively than we were. I was embarrassed last season to be an Arsenal fan and if Wenger doesn't address the reasons for this I for one won't be renewing and I know there will be thousands more like me. Rant Over
More tomorrow....
http://www.arsenal.com/match-menu/3174554/first-team/valencia-v-arsenal?tab=report
We started with pretty much our strongest eleven (apart from Sagna) and to be honest we were lucky to get away with a 2-0 defeat. We seemed toothless upfront and defensively inept, if this is the indicator for our team against Everton next week I am seriously worried. We don't seem to have learned anything from last season. We are so open defensively and against good sides we will be found out. There is nothing in centre midfield stopping teams streaming onto our back four. Song came on leaps and bounds last year but should we really be heading into the season with him as our only recognised defensive midfielder? I think its utter lunacy and I'm not the only one.
http://www.onlinegooner.com/editorial/index.php?id=182
I've got to say i agree with everything in the article.
We're about to ditch any move for Vieira.
http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2009/08/09/1430214/arsenal-to-ditch-move-for-patrick-vieira-report
I've always been a staunch supporter of Wenger but if he doesn't buy a defensive midfielder he is making a rod for his own back. I have never heard such venom aimed at Wenger as there was last year and those who were still sitting on the fence won't be keeping quiet this year if we have another disastrous season. I've had a season ticket for 20 years, I'm paying £1400 this year and I won't renew next season if we have another season as bad as last year.
It hurts to see Hull fans taking the piss out of Arsenal when you've just paid £60 quid to see your midfield not close down Geovanni when he's 30 yard out and you defence unable to defend a high ball five minutes later. It hurts to see your team 4-2 up against a Spurs team bottom of the table in injury time and 2 minutes later to see their 200 fans still at the ground jumping around like they've won the title because you can't close a game out. It hurts to go 4-3 up at Anfield in injury time and have no confidence in your comical defence to hold out. It hurts to get turned over 4-1 at home by a shit Chelsea team because you can't defend. It hurts to get battered 3-0 at against a City team who were even worse defensively than we were. I was embarrassed last season to be an Arsenal fan and if Wenger doesn't address the reasons for this I for one won't be renewing and I know there will be thousands more like me. Rant Over
More tomorrow....
Saturday, 8 August 2009
Arsenal News - Celtic, Merida and Simpson
Sorry about the lack of a blog yesterday but other things got in the way, namely taking my missus out.
Anyway we now know the team standing in the way of our path to the Champions League and it is Tony Mowbray’s Celtic. The Battle of Britain will commence at Celtic Park on the 18th of August with the return taking place at the Emirates on the 26th. Celtic will not be an easy draw by stretch but I'm happier to have been paired against Celtic rather than the dangerous Fiorentina or Atletico Madrid. The first leg will be a big test of our character and temperament. To say Celtic Park is a fortress is an understatement, Man Utd, AC Milan, Barcelona and various others have come unstuck in Glasgow in the last few years and it will no doubt be a tough test for our young side. Celtic may not be as great a side as they have been in previous years but they are perhaps the sort of side we have the most trouble with. They are hardworking, strong, tough in the tackle and committed and it is against this sort of side we have come unstuck against. i.e. Bolton/ Stoke/ Hull etc. We should however have enough to get us through over the two legs but it’s not the forgone conclusion the press will make it out to be....
Surprisingly Fran Merida looks to be heading out on loan again. It’s rumoured he will complete a loan move to Spanish second division side Levante tomorrow. This appears to be a strange one as Fran was finally making headway in his attempts to become a first team player. He was given a new squad number during the summer and impressed during the Emirates cup and with the injuries to Rosicky and Nasri a move away seems a bit strange to me. Fran definitely needs some more minutes but how much will he learn in the Spanish second division? If he needed a loan move surely a move to a good championship side or a mid-table Premier League side would have been more beneficial.
Jay Simpson looks like he will be following Merida out the door.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12874_5478059,00.html
A loan move to the Championship or to Champions League opponents Celtic has been mooted, but I wouldn't be surprised to see him move in a permanent deal. Jay hasn't ever really had a look in at Arsenal and to me I don't think he'll ever be good enough to be an Arsenal player. The Championship seems about the right level for him at the moment and maybe permanently.
We take on Valencia tonight in our last friendly it is being shown on Arsenal TV Online and will be streamed on a number of sites. I'll be watching and will cover it tomorrow.
Anyway we now know the team standing in the way of our path to the Champions League and it is Tony Mowbray’s Celtic. The Battle of Britain will commence at Celtic Park on the 18th of August with the return taking place at the Emirates on the 26th. Celtic will not be an easy draw by stretch but I'm happier to have been paired against Celtic rather than the dangerous Fiorentina or Atletico Madrid. The first leg will be a big test of our character and temperament. To say Celtic Park is a fortress is an understatement, Man Utd, AC Milan, Barcelona and various others have come unstuck in Glasgow in the last few years and it will no doubt be a tough test for our young side. Celtic may not be as great a side as they have been in previous years but they are perhaps the sort of side we have the most trouble with. They are hardworking, strong, tough in the tackle and committed and it is against this sort of side we have come unstuck against. i.e. Bolton/ Stoke/ Hull etc. We should however have enough to get us through over the two legs but it’s not the forgone conclusion the press will make it out to be....
Surprisingly Fran Merida looks to be heading out on loan again. It’s rumoured he will complete a loan move to Spanish second division side Levante tomorrow. This appears to be a strange one as Fran was finally making headway in his attempts to become a first team player. He was given a new squad number during the summer and impressed during the Emirates cup and with the injuries to Rosicky and Nasri a move away seems a bit strange to me. Fran definitely needs some more minutes but how much will he learn in the Spanish second division? If he needed a loan move surely a move to a good championship side or a mid-table Premier League side would have been more beneficial.
Jay Simpson looks like he will be following Merida out the door.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12874_5478059,00.html
A loan move to the Championship or to Champions League opponents Celtic has been mooted, but I wouldn't be surprised to see him move in a permanent deal. Jay hasn't ever really had a look in at Arsenal and to me I don't think he'll ever be good enough to be an Arsenal player. The Championship seems about the right level for him at the moment and maybe permanently.
We take on Valencia tonight in our last friendly it is being shown on Arsenal TV Online and will be streamed on a number of sites. I'll be watching and will cover it tomorrow.
Thursday, 6 August 2009
Arsenal Roundup - Rosicknote, Fab and Champs League
Tomas Rosicky’s preparation for the new season has been interrupted by injury.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=665414&cc=5739
He pulled a hamstring in training yesterday and will miss the first six weeks of the season. I feel sorry for Rosicky as he had to battle against injury for the last 18months and finally as the first team is in sight he gets injured again. Hopefully this is just a minor setback and he is back playing for the Gunners in September. This has however created an opportunity for Wilshere, Vela or Merida to make the step up. We'll get an idea of Wengers thinking at the weekend when we take on Valencia.
Our Chairman Peter Hill- Wood has dismissed speculation linking Milan to a bid for our captain.
http://www.thelondonpaper.com/thelondonpaper/sport/football/cesc-fabregas-is-staying-at-arsenal-says-peter-hill-wood
Well done Pete.
We find out tomorrow who we're facing in the Champions League qualifying round. We can only get one of Atletico Madrid, Fiorentina, Celtic, Anderlecht or FC Timosara due to a change in Uefa's qualifying format.
For a review of the teams we could face see the below link.
http://redlondon.wordpress.com/2009/08/06/get-to-know-the-five-teams-arsenal-may-be-drawn-against-tomorrow/
I'm obviously hoping we get the Romanian runners up. Ideally we'd like to stay away from Atletico and Fiorentina. We'll see who we get tomorrow.
Paddy's not quite ready to return home.
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/06082009/63/vieira-deal-close-wenger.html
We might not be in for Vieira but at least the boss is looking to strengthen us defensively.
More tomorrow when I'll discuss our Champions League opponents in detail....
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=665414&cc=5739
He pulled a hamstring in training yesterday and will miss the first six weeks of the season. I feel sorry for Rosicky as he had to battle against injury for the last 18months and finally as the first team is in sight he gets injured again. Hopefully this is just a minor setback and he is back playing for the Gunners in September. This has however created an opportunity for Wilshere, Vela or Merida to make the step up. We'll get an idea of Wengers thinking at the weekend when we take on Valencia.
Our Chairman Peter Hill- Wood has dismissed speculation linking Milan to a bid for our captain.
http://www.thelondonpaper.com/thelondonpaper/sport/football/cesc-fabregas-is-staying-at-arsenal-says-peter-hill-wood
Well done Pete.
We find out tomorrow who we're facing in the Champions League qualifying round. We can only get one of Atletico Madrid, Fiorentina, Celtic, Anderlecht or FC Timosara due to a change in Uefa's qualifying format.
For a review of the teams we could face see the below link.
http://redlondon.wordpress.com/2009/08/06/get-to-know-the-five-teams-arsenal-may-be-drawn-against-tomorrow/
I'm obviously hoping we get the Romanian runners up. Ideally we'd like to stay away from Atletico and Fiorentina. We'll see who we get tomorrow.
Paddy's not quite ready to return home.
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/06082009/63/vieira-deal-close-wenger.html
We might not be in for Vieira but at least the boss is looking to strengthen us defensively.
More tomorrow when I'll discuss our Champions League opponents in detail....
Wednesday, 5 August 2009
Arsenal News
There's not a lot of Arsenal news doing the rounds today.
Apparently we've had a bid for Sevilla Argentine defender Federico Fazio turned down.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2571686/Fazio-snubs-55million-Arsenal-bid.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=Football
We had a bid in the region of £5.5m for the lanky centre back turned down by the Spanish club. Fazio is the type of centre back many fans have been pleading for, he's a tough no nonsense defender who is very good in the air. This is encouraging news as it is definitely a position we can strengthen but to tell you the truth I don't believe that we've even made a bid for him. I don't think Wenger is chasing any defensive re-enforcements and I don’t expect any defensive signings to be made before the end of the window. I really hope I’m wrong!!!!!
AC Milan are rumoured to be chasing our captain.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2571597/AC-line-up-31m-bid-for-Cesc.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=Football
Milan may want Fab but there's no way he's going there.
I don't think the boss will entertain any offers for our talisman this summer and when he eventually leaves it will be to return to Spain not to go weak Italian league.
More tomorrow....
Apparently we've had a bid for Sevilla Argentine defender Federico Fazio turned down.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2571686/Fazio-snubs-55million-Arsenal-bid.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=Football
We had a bid in the region of £5.5m for the lanky centre back turned down by the Spanish club. Fazio is the type of centre back many fans have been pleading for, he's a tough no nonsense defender who is very good in the air. This is encouraging news as it is definitely a position we can strengthen but to tell you the truth I don't believe that we've even made a bid for him. I don't think Wenger is chasing any defensive re-enforcements and I don’t expect any defensive signings to be made before the end of the window. I really hope I’m wrong!!!!!
AC Milan are rumoured to be chasing our captain.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/2571597/AC-line-up-31m-bid-for-Cesc.html?OTC-RSS&ATTR=Football
Milan may want Fab but there's no way he's going there.
I don't think the boss will entertain any offers for our talisman this summer and when he eventually leaves it will be to return to Spain not to go weak Italian league.
More tomorrow....
Tuesday, 4 August 2009
Kalou, Chamakh and more Arsenal news
Arsenal have made a surprising move for Chelsea forward Salomon Kalou
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/arsenal/5970095/Arsenal-in-hunt-for-Chelseas-Salomon-Kalou.html
Wenger has reportedly made an offer of £6m for the Ivory Coast hitman. We have been linked to Kalou on a number of occasions in the past, but I can’t really see the point in making a move for him now. He’s a decent player but he’s very similar to what we already have at the club. We have lost Adebayor and if we are going to replace him it should be with a more traditional number 9 like Huntelaar not a winger/ second striker like Kalou. I think next season we are going to line up with one striker and two advanced wingers like Utd and Barcelona, and we already have numerous options for the wing. Wilshere, Nasri, Rosicky, Walcott, Arshavin, Merida and Diaby can all cover the wing slots with RVP, Bendtner and Eduardo covering the striking slot. To me if we need to increase options I would buy a number 9 as Eduardo and RVP can also play on the wing and as such Kalou doesn’t fit the bill. A good player but not what we need, so expect him to sign.
It seems as though Bordeaux are set to price Chamakh out of his dream move to Arsenal.
http://www.thelondonpaper.com/thelondonpaper/sport/football/arsenal-chief-claims-marouane-chamakh-will-not-be-joining-the-gunners
We have supposedly bid £6m for the Moroccan hitman with Bordeaux holding out for more than double this. The Boss has rightly pointed out that Chamakh is on a free next season and as such he will not be held to ransom. I think Wenger is completely correct and shouldn’t let Bordeaux dictate the terms of this transfer. Chamakh’s position is becoming untenable at Bordeaux as he has agitated for a move next summer and as he is out of contract next summer, now’s the time to play hardball. I think we’ll see him move to the Emirates by the end of the transfer window for a figure a lot closer to £6m than the £12-15m the French club want.
The media have picked up on the Senderos to Everton story that been doing the rounds since Saturday.
http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_5471504,00.html
Everton have now also commented on their official website they are in discussions to sign Big Phil. I made my feelings clear on this in previous blogs saying I think he could go on to become a world class centre back and will be a good signing for the Toffees, I guess time will tell.
Young Guns are reporting that we have agreed a deal to sign Argentina under 17 keeper Damian Martinez.
http://youngguns.wordpress.com/2009/08/04/arsenal-sign-independiente-keeper-martinez/
He was on trial with us at the end of last season and has obviously impressed. An immediate loan move to Salamanca is being lined up and hopefully in a couple of seasons he will come back to challenge for a first team place.
More tomorrow....
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/arsenal/5970095/Arsenal-in-hunt-for-Chelseas-Salomon-Kalou.html
Wenger has reportedly made an offer of £6m for the Ivory Coast hitman. We have been linked to Kalou on a number of occasions in the past, but I can’t really see the point in making a move for him now. He’s a decent player but he’s very similar to what we already have at the club. We have lost Adebayor and if we are going to replace him it should be with a more traditional number 9 like Huntelaar not a winger/ second striker like Kalou. I think next season we are going to line up with one striker and two advanced wingers like Utd and Barcelona, and we already have numerous options for the wing. Wilshere, Nasri, Rosicky, Walcott, Arshavin, Merida and Diaby can all cover the wing slots with RVP, Bendtner and Eduardo covering the striking slot. To me if we need to increase options I would buy a number 9 as Eduardo and RVP can also play on the wing and as such Kalou doesn’t fit the bill. A good player but not what we need, so expect him to sign.
It seems as though Bordeaux are set to price Chamakh out of his dream move to Arsenal.
http://www.thelondonpaper.com/thelondonpaper/sport/football/arsenal-chief-claims-marouane-chamakh-will-not-be-joining-the-gunners
We have supposedly bid £6m for the Moroccan hitman with Bordeaux holding out for more than double this. The Boss has rightly pointed out that Chamakh is on a free next season and as such he will not be held to ransom. I think Wenger is completely correct and shouldn’t let Bordeaux dictate the terms of this transfer. Chamakh’s position is becoming untenable at Bordeaux as he has agitated for a move next summer and as he is out of contract next summer, now’s the time to play hardball. I think we’ll see him move to the Emirates by the end of the transfer window for a figure a lot closer to £6m than the £12-15m the French club want.
The media have picked up on the Senderos to Everton story that been doing the rounds since Saturday.
http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8652_5471504,00.html
Everton have now also commented on their official website they are in discussions to sign Big Phil. I made my feelings clear on this in previous blogs saying I think he could go on to become a world class centre back and will be a good signing for the Toffees, I guess time will tell.
Young Guns are reporting that we have agreed a deal to sign Argentina under 17 keeper Damian Martinez.
http://youngguns.wordpress.com/2009/08/04/arsenal-sign-independiente-keeper-martinez/
He was on trial with us at the end of last season and has obviously impressed. An immediate loan move to Salamanca is being lined up and hopefully in a couple of seasons he will come back to challenge for a first team place.
More tomorrow....
Monday, 3 August 2009
Jack the lad and an Arsenal roundup.
The Jack Wilshere show continued at the Emirates Cup yesterday. Jack was again man of the match as he bagged two goals in our 3-0 victory against Glasgow Rangers.
http://www.arsenal.com/match-menu/171493/first-team/arsenal-v-rangers?tab=report
Jack was playing in a strong Arsenal team including Almunia, Fab, Rosicky, Arshavin and Eduardo, yet he still managed to produce another stand out performance. The technique displayed for his second goal was sublime and he really looks at home in our first team already. Wenger was attempting to dampen the expectation surrounding Jack after his performance on Saturday, but yesterday he was even better. Sky and the media have been very quick to jump on the “Wilshere for England” bandwagon but if Jack concentrates on establishing himself with us all that will naturally follow. His potential is amazing and harnessed correctly we will have a genuine world class player on our hands within a couple of years.
Big John Hartson is continuing his long battle to overcome cancer.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8182050.stm
He has been showing signs of improvement in the last week and will now begin Chemo this week. All I can say is good luck John my thoughts are with you.
Bordeaux are demanding that we up our offer for Mourane Chamakh.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5470903,00.html
We have apparently offered just over £6m for the Moroccan forward with the French club wanting closer to £12m for him. He is rumoured to be in London after he pulled out of Bordeaux’ friendly against Villarreal last night after claiming he was ill. There seems to be some substance to this story and I wouldn’t at all be surprised if we saw him sign by the end of the week.
More tomorrow....
http://www.arsenal.com/match-menu/171493/first-team/arsenal-v-rangers?tab=report
Jack was playing in a strong Arsenal team including Almunia, Fab, Rosicky, Arshavin and Eduardo, yet he still managed to produce another stand out performance. The technique displayed for his second goal was sublime and he really looks at home in our first team already. Wenger was attempting to dampen the expectation surrounding Jack after his performance on Saturday, but yesterday he was even better. Sky and the media have been very quick to jump on the “Wilshere for England” bandwagon but if Jack concentrates on establishing himself with us all that will naturally follow. His potential is amazing and harnessed correctly we will have a genuine world class player on our hands within a couple of years.
Big John Hartson is continuing his long battle to overcome cancer.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/8182050.stm
He has been showing signs of improvement in the last week and will now begin Chemo this week. All I can say is good luck John my thoughts are with you.
Bordeaux are demanding that we up our offer for Mourane Chamakh.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5470903,00.html
We have apparently offered just over £6m for the Moroccan forward with the French club wanting closer to £12m for him. He is rumoured to be in London after he pulled out of Bordeaux’ friendly against Villarreal last night after claiming he was ill. There seems to be some substance to this story and I wouldn’t at all be surprised if we saw him sign by the end of the week.
More tomorrow....
Saturday, 1 August 2009
First day at the Emirates Cup!
The Inaugural Emirates cup kicked off today. The first match saw Rangers beat Paris St Germain 1-o. The main even saw Arsenal beat a strong Atletico Madrid team 2-1.
http://www.arsenal.com/match/report/0809/post/first-team/arsenal-2-1-atletico-madrid-match-report?tab=report
The major talking point today was the performance of Jack Wilshere. He only came on at half time but managed to bag the man of the match award. He was at the heart of all that was good about Arsenal in the second half. He turned his full back inside out throughout and looked dangerous every time he touched the ball. Wilshere certainly has a massive future in front of him and I’m excited at the prospect of watching him mature into a world class player in the coming years. Arshavin scored both Arsenal goals today including an audacious finish for the winner, he will play a massive part in any success we will have this season. I’m actually genuinely excited about our attacking options this season.
We looked very fluid and threatening going forward and could have scored at least five goals but I must admit our concentration and authority at the back was a real worry. We don't look to have learnt the lessons of last season. We were so open it was scary and their goal minutes after we scored was down to a lack of communication and concentration. Seems like Groundhog Day. Mannone looked terrified of the ball and did his best to gift Atletico a goal with an almost calamitous error. He will never be an Arsenal standard keeper. The young Pole Wojciech Szczesny looks a much better prospect. I'd loan Mannone out to a lower league club straight away. I feel sorry for the kid he's only played five or six first team games and is nowhere near ready for first team football at a club like Arsenal. I think he needs to go to a Legue One club and get some minutes.
It looks as though Big Phil is on the way.
http://www.oleole.com/blogs/arseblog/posts/philippe-senderos-signs-for-everton
I like Phil, I always have and I think one day he's going to develop into a top centre back. I know he's made numerous mistakes over the years for us but honestly how many centre backs of his age haven't? Once he fully matures he could develop into a very solid defender. I guess it’s our loss. Good luck with the toffees Phil.
Rumoured Arsenal target Daniele De Rossi has shot down any links to us.
http://www.teletext.co.uk/football/news/7b7fb2f5ef3b9cdd68eb56d4ea0ead06/De+Rossi+No+Gunners+interest.aspx
That's that one over with then, thought it smelt of something.
There’s a good read in the Guardian from Amy Lawrence, well worth a quick glance.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/aug/01/arsenal-atletico-madrid-arsene-wenger
More tomorrow when we are basking in the glory of being Emirates cup champions.
http://www.arsenal.com/match/report/0809/post/first-team/arsenal-2-1-atletico-madrid-match-report?tab=report
The major talking point today was the performance of Jack Wilshere. He only came on at half time but managed to bag the man of the match award. He was at the heart of all that was good about Arsenal in the second half. He turned his full back inside out throughout and looked dangerous every time he touched the ball. Wilshere certainly has a massive future in front of him and I’m excited at the prospect of watching him mature into a world class player in the coming years. Arshavin scored both Arsenal goals today including an audacious finish for the winner, he will play a massive part in any success we will have this season. I’m actually genuinely excited about our attacking options this season.
We looked very fluid and threatening going forward and could have scored at least five goals but I must admit our concentration and authority at the back was a real worry. We don't look to have learnt the lessons of last season. We were so open it was scary and their goal minutes after we scored was down to a lack of communication and concentration. Seems like Groundhog Day. Mannone looked terrified of the ball and did his best to gift Atletico a goal with an almost calamitous error. He will never be an Arsenal standard keeper. The young Pole Wojciech Szczesny looks a much better prospect. I'd loan Mannone out to a lower league club straight away. I feel sorry for the kid he's only played five or six first team games and is nowhere near ready for first team football at a club like Arsenal. I think he needs to go to a Legue One club and get some minutes.
It looks as though Big Phil is on the way.
http://www.oleole.com/blogs/arseblog/posts/philippe-senderos-signs-for-everton
I like Phil, I always have and I think one day he's going to develop into a top centre back. I know he's made numerous mistakes over the years for us but honestly how many centre backs of his age haven't? Once he fully matures he could develop into a very solid defender. I guess it’s our loss. Good luck with the toffees Phil.
Rumoured Arsenal target Daniele De Rossi has shot down any links to us.
http://www.teletext.co.uk/football/news/7b7fb2f5ef3b9cdd68eb56d4ea0ead06/De+Rossi+No+Gunners+interest.aspx
That's that one over with then, thought it smelt of something.
There’s a good read in the Guardian from Amy Lawrence, well worth a quick glance.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/aug/01/arsenal-atletico-madrid-arsene-wenger
More tomorrow when we are basking in the glory of being Emirates cup champions.
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