Something to think about…
Today news has emerged that Anzhi want Arshavin. If the cards are played right, we may not see the Russian at Arsenal from February. However, if they are played wrong we won’t get another chance like this ever. We payed roughly 15 million for Arshavin so any thing above 12 will be the best deal we can get.
Do you think we should sell Arshavin ?
Alex Hleb has had his contract terminated with Barcelona and is a free-agent. I don’t know if the club will sign him or not but I think they should. Hleb has always said it was a mistake to leave Arsenal and he played a huge role in making Arsenal finish with 83 points in 2007.
Do you think we should re-sign him ?
Wenger has roughly 50 million pounds with him. A few days back he said it would be a miracle if anybody signed for the club within the next 24 hours. This winter we have only signed Henry, and are about to get a young German within the next few hours. I thought we would have gone in for someone else in the market, given the fact that we have to fight very badly for the 4th this season. But it was not to be….
Don’t you feel like killing Wenger ?
Lets hope Arsenal don’t go ‘wandering’ from here…
Let me make this preview simple for you.
Arsenal have to win to ensure that they remain in contention for the champions league spot this season.
If they don’t they will drift further away from Chelsea who, if I may add, happen to be winning games without playing very well in them. Classic !
Also, Liverpool may supersede us to 5th as they face Wolves at Molinuex on tuesday. Liverpool for your information have found good form having knocked out both Manchester Clubs in 2 different competitions in 1 week, and currently stand on 35 points, 1 behind Arsenal.
Opponent Watch :
The Reebok stadium was the same stadium in which Arsenal were knocked out of the title race last season, losing 2-1 with seconds to go. Among the last 5 meetings with Bolton in the premier league, they have won 2, losing 3.
Fighting to avoid relegation Bolton will not be a simple walkover. Swansea taught Arsenal a lesson in terms of a tippy-tappy football, and Bolton have the means to do the same if under-estimated.
Probable Line – Up :
Prediction : Bolton FC 0-1 Arsenal FC
Cheers,
DKD
I credit Wenger for the win….(there, I said it)
30 mins…that is it.
For those who tuned in to watch the Villa game yesterday, they were probably the lucky ones to have witnessed the real Arsenal FC. And for those 15 mins I thought where has this Arsenal gone.
Normally I am very pessimistic about Arsenal because of my passion for the club. But yesterday was one of those performances which made me say “I am glad to have been chosen by the club” (and no it is not a mistake)…
2 goals for Robin and 1 for Theo ensured our qualification into the 5th Round of the FA Cup. Overcoming a 2-0 deficit at halftime is a difficult task for any club. For Arsenal it seems even more difficult given their shabby performances this season.
There is a reason why I have written 30 mins on top. And that is because I give credit to Wenger for his performance at half time. I don’t know what Wenger told the team at half time, but I imagine it would be something like this ” Play for the crest in front of your shirt, not for the name at the back .”
I never do this, but this time he deserves it. I still don’t hold Wenger in very very high regard, as I wish to see ‘more of the same’ from the man this season. But for the first time this season the manager made a difference and I applaud him for that.
Cheers,
DKD
The Preview : FA Cup – Arsenal FC vs Aston Villa FC
Arsenal face Villa this sunday at the Emirates. The team news from the North London club is that we have most of our players back, but it is still uncertain whether or not they will have any role to play this sunday. Something that can only happen to Arsenal Football Club.
Probable Line up :
Henry will probably play in the center on sunday. I want him to play in this role because that is where he likes to play. Benayoun is a work-horse so I expect him to start, plus, he got us the winning goal against Villa at Villa Park in December. Rosicky should start alongside him because Ramsey needs a rest. Song will occupy the Makalele spot.
Sagna is doing well, but he will not play against Villa this sunday, so Ignasi will start. Coquelin has been passed fit and will start at Left back. Almunia will replace Szczesny in goal.
Opponent Watch :
Arsenal have lost their last 2 games against Villa, both of which have come in the premier league. And they may yet lose another one due to the form of this Arsenal side.
Prediction :
Arsenal FC 2-1 Aston Villa FC
Cheers,
DKD
Roles as Fans/Twitter/”Bad habit” of Losing/Change in the Arsenal structure
Today I opened a new twitter account (DKD). Well actually, it was not today but a few days back. But from today I will constantly update it.
I have to put forward a few things related to Arsenal, so here goes. As fans of the club, Gazidis has already stated that Wenger is accountable to us. Personally, I don’t know to what extent that is true, but more importantly, if we do consider what Gazidis has said to be right, as fans what exactly is our role to ensure Wenger’s ‘continuous accountability‘ to us ?
What is the role of a fan ?
Well, its pretty simple. As fans it is our duty to support our club during any time – be it good, or bad. In return, what do we ask from the club ?
We ask that it gives its heart out on the field and win us trophies, so that we can show-off, and make fun of Spurs. Period.
Let me explain.
To those passionate football fans who are reading this post, tell me, don’t you feel bad when your team loses ?
Disappointment has become such a frequent thing for an Arsenal supporter that he really should be immune to it. Infact, even I am now use to the fact that my team will not win anything and that we will finish below the top 4, unless something miraculous happens, which to be fair is very unlikely.
Losing has become a HABIT, and we just can’t seem to get out of it- Like smoking..
Wenger has to start looking for new options otherwise we may not finish in the top 8 this season. The same style of football of pass-and-move is becoming so monotonous and readable that other managers can literally take a day off before games against us because they don’t have to plan tactics accordingly. I have already started telling my friends and colleagues that same line that I have been repeating every year for 7 years now. “This season was bad, BUT next season, we will win the league… “
It takes time to change the structure of a team and it involves alot of effort. This is because when you build a team you have a certain plan that you wish to build it up in a certain way. For example Barcelona is build around primarily 3 players who occupy the middle of the field and attack. Xavi, Iniesta and Messi. That makes them such an attacking side. On the other hand Mourinho’s teams are build more on stability at the back. This is a reason why he chooses to play 1 or 2 holding midfielders in certain games when he wishes to close shop after scoring a goal. It is more about defending and not conceding than scoring.
Arsenal on the other hand have only 1 world class player, and 2 other players who are just shy of being world class – Koscielny and Vermaelen. The rest is either shades above mediocrity or dross. And they have no structure when it comes to football. They have the same style of playing in every match, and Wenger’s tactics are derisory at times. There is never a back up plan, not to mention if there was it would probably be increase the tempo of the tippy-tappy football. It makes me sick.
5 days to go in the transfer window and no hint of a signing. God knows what Arsenal is waiting for, because as far as I know the discount policy for players in Europe is only available during the summer…
I will be out with the FA Cup preview soon, need my depression pills right now. One piece of good news that I can confirm is that Sagna is back in training, and may have something to say in February. Another interesting piece of news is that Wenger has called a ‘special team meeting’ to ensure the media does not get into the ‘head’ of his Arsenal team, that is to say ‘ Leave Robin Van Persie alone, and stop telling him that he will never win a trophy at Arsenal Football Club.” (Liar)
Cheers,
DKD
My Camera-man at the Emirates…with CAPTIONS !!!
Here are a few pictures with my captions :
” This hairstyle doesn’t go with my arrogance, let me fix it “
” Damn, what have I done now, yes Gaffer I’m coming “
” My hair is ‘zperfect’, now where were we ? “
” How you doing bro ? “
” See you next season mate, can’t wait to party together “
Cheers,
DKD
Something to think about ? Wenger and Gazidis.
Consider this.
Ivan Gazidis said in the AGM prior to the season that Arsene Wenger is accountable to the fans. The management backed Wenger and the season started.
And today Wenger says that he does not have to justify to 50,000 people his decision.
Something to think about ?
Arsenal FC 1-2 Manchester United FC
Arsenal dropped more points today at the Emirates as Daniel Welbeck put the United ahead with 10 mins to go. There will be some controversy about Wenger’s substitution regarding Chamberlain and Arshavin- a pointless and stupid substitution to do.
It was a lively start to match which saw in 10 mins Arsenal creating a few chances, but nothing really concrete.
After the 15th min, United began piling on pressure. Holes in the Arsenal defense could be seen as Nani and Valencia earned a number of corners for the away side.
On 24, we came close after Chamberlain beat Evra and layed in front of Walcott, only for the latter to hit his shot wide.
As we hit the half an hour mark the game increased in intensity. 5 mins later United had 100 % control. Arsenal were defending collectively with most of United’s attacks coming from the right. When Arsenal were getting the ball they were clueless. United were in shape within seconds nullifying any chance of ‘pretty football’ from their opponents.
On 40, United should have led when Djourou went for an aimless clearance against Nani, in turn missing the ball and letting the Portuguese through.
On 45, United took the lead. United had a plan. Target Djourou and get in your crosses and passes from the right. Its not a difficult plan, and its easy to implement. Giggs with the cross and Valencia with a ‘thumping’ header. Arsenal 0-1 United !
The gap in the midfield was immense. Between Song and Robin there was no link, so long balls even if the dutchman did head would fall into the laps of United players. Ramsey was as ever remained ‘lost’ and Rosicky ‘ineffective.’
Another aspect is Djourou. The red point, which denotes ‘weakness’ was probably on the head of Djourou. Constantly being targeted by United as the achilles foot of this Arsenal team – the truth.
At half time Wenger took off Djourou (probably injured) and brought on Yennaris.
On 50, Arsenal had a superb chance to equalise. Smalling slipped while on the ball and Rosicky picked it up with yards on space to run. After entering the D-box the Czech passed it to Robin who passed Evans and fired his LEFT foot shot a yard wide of Lindegaards goal.
4 mins later, Ramsey picked up Chamberlains ball infront of the D-box, passed Giggs and fired his shot over the cross bar.
On 57, Arsenal had another chance to score as Rosicky smashed his shot against Evra and wide. 3 chances and 3 opportunities to score.
On 61, Chamberlain cut his shot passed Lindegaard as United lost possession in the middle of the field. Seconds later Mertersacker was beaten but his two footed clearance kept Arsenal in the game.
On 70, United conceded via a FC Barcelona counter-attack. Koscileny took Rafael off the ball and played a long ball to Rosicky who found Chamberlain on the right. The youngster on receiving the ball cut right before playing a reverse ball to Robin who tucked net into Lindegaards far corner sweetly. Arsenal 1-1 Manchester United.
5 mins later, the Emirates was filled with boos as Alex Chamberlain was taken off for Arshavin.
On 80, United took the lead. Valencia beat Arshavin on the right, passed Song before passing it to Welbeck who shot it into Szczesny’s goal. Arsenal 1-2 United.
3 mins later, Wenger brought on Park for Ramsey.
With 5 mins added on there was enough time to get the equaliser. Sad thing is there were not enough chances.
TURNING POINT : Chamberlains substitution
My apologies to Wenger/Ruthless Media….
Today Arsene Wenger did me a big favour. He flipped off Peter Hill Wood, thus restoring my belief in him to a more balanced level. These were the managers comments :
For me it would be [a disaster]“, the Arsenal manager said. “Because I want to play with the best.
“We want to be in there, in the top four, and to play in the Champions League, and anything else would not be good enough.”
As I have said I feel Peter Hill Wood is a waste of space at Arsenal, as he does nothing to help us. He lacks the brains to do anything and once in a while he comes out with the most astonishing comments.
I apologise to you Arsene, for questioning what you have done to Hill Wood that made him say that it was A-okay if we did not get top 4. It turns out the bloke was a bloke from before.
At first when I saw the penalty against Swansea, I thought it was a penalty. Now I realise that Dyer had actually dived. Wenger complained why Pires’ dive against Portsmouth was talked about so much, and nothing on the Dyer issue.
Well here is the most logical and simple explanation why Pires is more talked about Dyer.
It is because the media enjoy Arsenal’s slow demise from the top to the top 6, and rather talk about Wenger moaning that address the real issue – Dyer diving.
The media is a like a wolf, especially the English media. They will harp on anything even remotely harming or scratching the ego’s of other managers and teams. Another reason why the media is so dangerous is the comments of the current Real Madrid manager, that he ‘misses’ the English media.
This one is quite obvious – all Mourinho has to do is say something and the media will paint the town red making a story.
I just hope Wenger has not said this to cover up Hill-Woods ridiculous comments. If that is so, then none of them deserve to be at Arsenal Football Club.
The Preview : Arsenal FC vs Manchester United FC
Fresh into the New Year and its Manchester United.
Sunday will definetely show us a few things. Firstly, it will show us how focused this Arsenal team is, and how well they respond on the pitch. Secondly, it will show us the difference in ‘this Arsenal squad’ and the one which 8-2 too much at Manchester earlier this season. And thirdly, it will show how good Wenger is in terms of managing a team which has thrown away 6 points in the last 2 weeks.
A win at United will have a huge impact on our season because we will have beaten the champions. At home we have had only 1 loss, against Liverpool in the second match of the season.
I don’t expect Wenger to be ready and prepared for Ferguson, because quite frankly he never is, but I do expect the team to be. Van Persie, who is probably playing his last season as a Gunner would love to show us that he gave everything for the club ( he did), and what better way to do it if not against our old rivals.
On the injury front, nothing is clear. Vermaelen was scheduled to be back but now will have to run a few tests. Its best to try and be optimistic about him because there is nothing else one can do. So, if we say we have no one coming back, and that includes Henry, this is the line-up I see at the Emirates against United.
The defense will be Mertersacker, and Koscielny. Ignasi will occupy left back and Djourou right. Benayoun will play on the left to cover Ignasi who will be nervous. For me Benayoun has to do the experienced player job, and cover up for Ignasi becuase for sure Nani, or even Valencia will be looking to get at the spaniard forcing him to make mistakes. Arshavin will take up the CAM role, and will be given another opportunity to show why he is worth it. Alongside him will be the ever inconsistent Ramsey. Walcott will play on the right. On top we have a world class striker, and at the back Szczesny.
In all probability we may yet again get beaten by a margin of 3 goals. And this is because the problems with this Arsenal defense stretch beyond talent. Organisation is a very important factor in any team, as this Arsenal show us what happens to you if you just have 4 defenders on the pitch who are told ’do not concede’ with a good old pat on the back before every match. One plus point for us is that United do not have Vidic.
Win or not Wenger has to dip into the transfer market, because we have a good 4 months of football coming our way. A win against United will not be greater than finishing in the top 4. The Logic is simple. One gives us 3 points and the other a ‘top team’ status.
Regarding our injuries, I do not expect Wilshere, Arteta to be back soon. Sagna may be earlier but the earliest I see him in first team action is mid or end February.
Again, Arsenal’s season depends on Wenger – and his willingness to spend the ‘little’ amount he has locked up in his piggy bank !
Lack of Ambition at Arsenal FC CONFIRMED !
If I have to do it, I crib. Yes, I am a blogger who cribs but atleast I am honest about it. Today as I sat and read Peter Hill Woods quotes (after a delay in the network) I realised that something is wrong with Arsenal. I am 99% sure that we have caught a disease and it hurts me to hear these words from a man who occupies such a high position at Arsenal Football Club.
“We are hanging on in there, no more,
From a financial point of view, not qualifying for the Champions League is quite a blow.
“We have been planning for not qualifying every year, so it’s not a disaster, but it would be nice if we could.”
Arsene, what have you done ?
What have you done that has forced Hill-Woodto say such a thing. Where is the club’s ambition ?Ironically this was the season the club celebrated 125 years !
In my life, I had never imagined that a person within 8 miles of Arsenal Football Club could ever think that it is OK, and ‘not a disaster’ if Arsenal DO NOT qualify for the champions league.
Good Management at every level is crucial to ensure that the entire system is working properly, and as far as I can conclude I don’t see any management at Arsenal FC at ANY level. Chelsea are reportedly going to buy Eden hazard, and have already purchased Cahill. Why Wenger has not taken a dip in the transfer market eludes me ?
Everybody says Wenger has the money and everybody agrees that Wenger has ‘millions’ to spent in the transfer market. Yet Arsenal CANNOT bid for Eden Hazard ? Why ? What are they waiting for ? To get him on a cheap price deal, because you and I both know that for the chances of Hazard coming in for less than 20 million is as good as us winning the champions league this year.
Arsenal are not in a good state and remarks from Hill-Wood at this juncture just causes a ‘new’ embarassing situation in North London. What has made me even more indignant is that Hill-Wood has actually stated that the club PLANS every year for not playing in the champions league. Is this the confidence of the management that is in charge of Arsenal FC ? That they have to plan every year for Arsenal sudden demise….
God help us.
more to follow..
No St. Totteringham’s day this year/ Arsenal needs players
If the title is lost, then how about 4th. I don’t want Europa League and I do have my reasons. First off, all the fun I have made of United fans won’t be worth it. Secondly, its too hectic and pointless to fight for. And thirdly, Arsenal is more than that. Its above teams like United, and City.
This January I am hopeful that the management at Arsenal Football Club will recruit somebody. My reasons are pretty simple. We need 4th place. Gervinho will be ACN, and Henry will leave for the U.S 2 months later. As earlier stated I dislike Djourou and Walcott, and I don’t think they will contribute much to this Arsenal squad in any season. To be clear, what I mean by the word ‘contribute’ is that their presence shall give Arsenal fans confidence even if our top star(s) are rested.
There has been much talk about Matias Suarez, but based on the info I have received about him he is going to come in the summer. Timely ! It is not easy to sign anybody in the winter transfer window atleast not the established players and this Wenger has also pointed out :
“All over the world we have our eyes and we look for good [players].
“It is very simple in a situation like that. You might take a player who doesn’t play at all somewhere, who is not necessarily fit quicker than a player who is injured. Or you take a young, potential player who has not made it somewhere.
“A player who plays anywhere in the world at the moment will not be available on loan, it doesn’t exist. It can only be a guy who doesn’t play or a promising player who has not yet made it completely who you could take advantage of.
“That is why it is not an easy situation. You have to consider that a guy who has not played for two months is not necessarily back quicker than Bacary Sagna or another player who is just coming back from injury.”
That is why I said I am ‘hopeful’ that somebody will stabilise this Arsenal ship. We are a mediocre team and that I am convinced. Swansea just proved it. To win the league we NEED to be consistent, and to be constant ’we need a good team.’ This is the second half of the season and we may just nick it or manage it this time, but life won’t be so kind after the summer. Anyway that is a long way out so I’ll leave that for now.
In other news, Koscielny does not want to join twitter. I love this guy man. People don’t rate him as a world class defender but I do. He has grown and matured in the right way. Koscielny is a good example of what I expected from Walcott. If Theo can even emulate what Koscileny has achieved I will be happy.
Wengers post match interview was interesting yesterday. This is what he said :
I still don’t understand where the referee found the penalty [for Swansea's equaliser], then we defensively made some mistakes that we should not have done.” Wenger said.
“When it was back at 2-2 we knew we could score a third but it was important not to make a mistake. But in the last games we have made mistakes that are difficult to explain. It is unbelievable, it happened at Fulham the same and again today.”
“Coincidences are always against us and it is difficult to understand what is going on. I don’t know, I feel we are a bit too nervous. We cannot panic every time they have the ball in the final third of the pitch. We have to show more composure and ambition. I think we panicked a bit too quickly today. ”
“It is always a concern but on the other hand there is a good spirit in the side and a desire to do well. But we have dropped six points in a row now that we should not have.”
I am lost for words. We lost to Fulham on the 3rd and we lost to Swansea on the 15th. In those 12 days Wenger has failed to communicate with his players that they CANNOT afford to be nervous otherwise they will not see the light of Europe again. His interview after Fulham and Swansea are similar. He moans about referees. Fortunately he is right, but unfortunately he is also a hypocrite. This is because he says ‘we have to live with it’ but he never stops moaning. Yes, may be one or 2 lines about the ref is allright but to call him ‘naive’ and criticising others to make his players get yellow cards is a bit too much (Fulham)
The picture on the right can be interpreted in so many ways.
Here’s mine.
Dyer is telling Arshavin ‘Thats how you score man’…Ignasi on the other hand is probably murmuring to himself” Can’t argue also, thats the way to do it”
Jan 16th Gooners and we are in a bad plight, hopefully a win against United will calm me down, but even if that happens I don’t see us winning the title or qualifying for Europe next season.
If we do the latter it will be a trophy for me, but if we don’t, and most likely we won’t somebody has to be appointed as the head of transfers at Arsenal Football Club other than Wenger – A man with the heaviest wallet in England !
BTW I want those reading this post to click here. Help out if you know anything, and if you don’t then do take out 1 min and pray to God so that things become normal for this man and his family.
Really appreciate it..
DKD
Why is the ‘August’ Arsenal showing up ? Swansea 3-2 Arsenal FC
Arsenal were dealt a blow in the title race (..lol) as they stumbled to a 3-2 defeat at the Liberty Stadium.
The game started with alot of pressure on the Arsenal defence. Then, 5 mins later we led. Again, it was Robin Van Persie with the goal and Arshavin with the assist.
But after the goal, the game changed. Swansea began pressurizing from the back as Arsenal rarely got possession. The homeside were rewarded for their hardwork on 15, when Ramsey clip cost us a penalty. Sinclair did well to beat Szczesny who did dive the right side.
On 17, Ramsey came close after beating the keeper at his near post, only to fire it against the post and into Vorm’s hands.
Fortunately for Arsenal Sinclair preferred to cross rather than shoot when the player did well to beat the off-side trap as DJ was slow to react the ball being hit out from a corner.
On 28, Robin had a second chance to put us in front but this time his shot was straight at Vorm.
The home side looked much more threatening with constant flighted balls into Szczesny’s D-box. The away side on the other hand were only looking to counter-attack. Its funny because I always thought Arsenal SHOULD do what Swansea WAS doing.
When the second half started within 20 seconds Arsenal began attacking with Theo firing his shot from the right over Vorms bar. 2 mins later Arshavin had a better position to shoot, in a better position, but he too caught Theo’s sickness, firing his shot over Vorms cross bar.
After the 50th min Swansea again began dominating possession and bullying the Arsenal’s defense. 7 mins later Dyer put Swansea ahead. Miguel had gone up and Arsenal lost possession of the ball near the centre. It was a swift attack by Swansea as the ball was fed to an unmarked Dyer on the right who shot found the back of Szczesny’s net..
On 61, Graham mistimed his header for a corner as Djourou chose to not head the ball, and give his marked man preference. 2 mins later Arhavin and Benayoun were subbed for Henry and Rosicky.
On 68, it was 2-2 as DJ fed Theo from the back and the englishman dinked it over an oncoming Vorm into the Swansea net. But as usual, we know this Arsenal defense. Not following the golden rule of ‘being most vulnerable once you have scored. 45 seconds later, Swansea led. Graham from the right to beat Szczesny at his far post. Disgusting.
2 mins later Per had a chance to score but the German botched it. To be fair to him, he was crowded out and 99% of footballers would just shoot blindly in that position.
On 79, Swansea could have had 4 when Graham unselfishly passed it to Sinclair, but DJ did well to come back and clear.
On 86, Chamberlain did well to work the ball on the left before delivering a cross only for Rosicky to volley over. 2 mins later, Rosicky fired a 30 yard shot towards Vorm which deflected off the keeper into the path of Koscielny whose bicycle fell staright to Vorm.
With 4 mins of added time Arsenal were looking only to equalise as winning was out of the question. Swansea ran down the clock to 0, with no real chances coming in added time. Once the full time whistle was blown, the cameraman closed up on Wenger – on his haunches inside the technical box.
Sami ‘the cunt’ Nasri – The Money Loving Whore
The first thing gooners around the world say when we talk about Samir Nasri is that he is a ‘cunt.’ Recently, 2 Liverpool fans made fun of the Frog and fucked around with the french-man after he lost to Liverpool in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup. How do I feel about the entire Nasri situation ?
Nasri was a top player for Arsenal in the 1st half of the 2010-2011 season. He influenced the way we played and he provided good cover when Cesc was out injured. Then, he disappeared in the second half when a dutchman took over. Today, if you ask me whether I would have Samir back in this Arsenal squad, I would never agree. We all know why he went to City. He wanted to win trophies and earn alot of money. As fans we associate him leaving London for the pounds but lets not forget he also went to WIN trophies. lol !
He never starts at City and remains a fringe player. He could have done so much with Arsenal, and this season he could have emulated his last season (1st half) form. Today he is getting all the money he wants and he is living his life well, but as Gooners we hate him because he betrayed the love we showed him and he hurt Arsenal. Songs were written about Nasri, and he ditched us for an extra 30,000 pounds.
This is Nasri speaking :
It is annoying. The work we do is not getting the credit it deserves because we are not winning silverware. It is unfair because I think we have more merit as a club than those who have built their teams with millions of pounds whereas Arsenal have brought in young footballers, who have come here to play a certain kind of football and who have developed.”
This is in April, 2010 after another season without silverware. 2 months later he tells Wenger that he wants to leave and join Manchester City. What does that make you think of him ?
He even betrayed Gervinho who said that Nasri was the one who asked him to come to Arsenal. People have come out and criticised the Kopites for posting the video of them abusing Nasri. Lets face it , we as Gooners feel the same way. We don’t like him, and if we had the chance to put him into an embarrassing situation we would do that. Yes, we are that petty. Because we just love Arsenal too much. You insult the club, you insult the fans. Ironically, Nasri did both.
Nasri deserves what he gets and he deserves to be booed of his *** at the Emirates. One should not be racist but to call him a ‘Money loving whore is not being racist. Rather, its being honest.
I can go on about Nasri all the day long, but I won’t. I have a life and I rather enjoy it than abuse a man whose motivation in life has been driven by Queen Elizabeth’s picture.
Here is something to cheer you up incase you think of that cunt…
THE RETURN OF THE KING
Swansea City/Theo the ‘Newt /Thierry the King
I don’t like it when we draw. Too much time is wasted and we have to wait for a no of days before anything remotely interesting (in football) happens again. Of course, if you are desperate you can listen to Wenger’s post match interview but that is temporary entertainment. Swansea is a game which we must win to ensure we get spot no 4 in the league table and the return of Henry will certainly boost the confidence of this Arsenal squad.
His finish against Leeds was subtle and it was a typical Henry finish. Opening up his body and slotting the ball into the net.
I do not see both Robin and Henry starting to be honest. Arshavin should start at Swansea along with that newt Walcott, and Robin. Arteta, Ramsey and Song will occupy midfield. Behind them will stand the German and Koscielny. Left back will be Ignasi and right back good old Djourou (sarcasm intended) !
11 days of the January transfer window is over and yet I see no movement in the transfer market from Arsenal’s perspective. A short term solution is a good choice but I think a long term target should also be looked into. Especially for Chamakh, and the likes of Theo Walcott- the right man (literally) in the wrong team.
Probable Line Up :
Swansea lie 12th in the table collecting 23 points so far this season. It will be a difficult game but one that must add to the “W” tally in the league table, if we are serious about the champions league. If the game is not going our way Henry may just have to break the ice again. Won’t it be nice to see the ‘King’ hug Wenger and celebrate again ?
Class is permanent and you need class to win. Henry 1-0 Leeds !
Well I hope this proves to Wenger that you NEED class to win a match, and it is class which gives you that extra edge to pull it through. Exactly after 10 mins after coming on Thierry Henry put us in front with 12 mins to go.
Arshavin had the first chance in the game when he skied a lay-off from Chamakh miles over the cross bar. It shows the position of the Russian’s confidence and where it stands at the moment – below 0.
While we had most of the possession, and played like Barcelona when we lost the ball ( because it was Leeds) there was no real threat at the Leeds goal.
However on 15, Chamberlain was fouled down his flank earning a free kick on the right of the D-box. Arteta fired in a ball into the box but Squillaci’s header was dreadful. As a defender he sshould have scored that one, especially being a centre back. The firt real chance of the game.
With no real players actually trying very hard apart from Arshavin (surprisingly) the Leeds goal was safe. Every Arsenal attack was broken up by them very efficiently. Chamakh was as usual absent from the front line, not looking like his ‘youtube’ video self.
Personally, I feel this Arsenal squad has been stretched. Wenger has pushed them to their limit and without a world class player they were little more than mediocre – mainly due to the fact that we were facing Leeds and not any premier league side.
The second half was similar to the 1st that was until the manager brought on the King. On 78, we took the lead as Song found a free Henry on the right of the goal. The Frenchman took one touch to intercept the ball and slotted the ball into the net with his right. Vintage Henry with a classic goal.
8 mins to go and Arshavin had a chance to put it to bed but his left foot shot was wild and off-target. Moments later Ramsey reciprocated doing the same thing.
With 3 mins added on the game looked over. I looked at Henry once, and I knew. He was cool, and calm like we were winning 3-0. That is what he does, that is what he gives you.
Cheers,
DKD
Leeds Game/ Red card rules/ TH 12
Leeds United were once a very good team. They had Rio Ferdinand, Jonathan Woodgate, and even Robbie Keane. Now they are fighting to get back into the premiership, after being thrusted into the shadows of English football for 4 years.
Now we welcome them to the Emirates, for our 3rd round FA Cup tie. Today I watched the City vs United game because I had nothing to do. The referee in my opinion was disgraceful, and he ruined what was going to be a well contested derby. I hope we don’t get a bloke like him against Leeds.
I have to get something clear on the red card rule before I go on any further. In my opinion, I don’t think Kompany’s tackle was worthy of a red card. It wasn’t even a foul, and Nani was not even hurt. Forget hurt, Kompany didn’t even touch him ! The usual mindset is that if it is a two footed challenge, it is deemed to be a sending off.
Consider this. Under normal circumstances, if you make a challenge getting only the ball, and none of the player it is a good tackle. Now just add 2 footed infront of the word ‘challenge’. Is it worthy of a red card ? I think the FA should look into this matter more seriously and consider certain facts. Firstly, Kompany only got the ball. Secondly, it was NOT one of those challenges that Nani had to jump out of the way. He only had to do that AFTER Kompany had the ball between his legs. And thirdly, he didn’t even touch Nani.
That red card ruined the game, and what I thought was going to be a well contested game turned out to be a just a contested game.
Anyway, enough of the 2 Manchester clubs as they have had enough of the headlines. Henry is back and should start for us against Leeds. If Robin is not starting, Henry should be given the captains arm band. It will look good on him after so many years. Wenger will have problems setting up the defense because we have DJ out for the match(suspension). The rest of the defense is out with injuries…
Probable Line up :
Another option is that Arshavin may start, with the formation changing to a 4-3-3. Chamakh, Arshavin and Ox leading the front line and behind them will be Rosicky, Yossi, and Song. The defence should be the same.
Cheers,
DKD
PS : If we do win against Leeds tomorrow then we face Villa at the end of January at the Emirates.
Wenger needs a reality check…
Wenger needs a reality check. And boy does he need it fast. I have had sometime to go through the incidents of the game held in West London on the 2nd, and to be fair I am disappointed. Arsenal SHOULD have killed the game off in the first half, but as we all know the team does not like killing because that involves picking up 3 points with 45 mins to go..
I don’t know what to make of Theo Walcott because to be neutral I do not think he fits in at Arsenal. Yes, this is more criticism directed at the Englishman, but this time he deserves it. He was atrocious that day, and it makes me wonder why Wenger allows Theo to continue this way. If you think about it Walcott is a regular starter at Arsenal, and having a player like him as a starter shows you how depleted the clubs ambitions are. Walcott is quick, but what good does it do if he cannot use his brain on a football field. Against QPR he was through 1 on 1 with the keeper only to send his scuffed toothless shot right of the post AFTER eyeing up the goal. Chamberlain will give him good competition but lets face it the boy will not replace Theo this season. That Wenger will make sure of. He likes getting player ready before putting them on the pitch. Theo was probably an experiment which has turned out very badly. Not only is he inconsistent but also dull when it comes to certain situations on the pitch. Surprisingly he is ‘gifted’ the same situations game after game and even then he fails to capitalise. When he does we feel he will improve but lets be real, we have been feeling that for quite some time now.
Another man in this Arsenal team which makes me twitch is Djourou. A walking talking disaster. The game against Fulham should provide enough evidence to back me up. First off, he is a centre back, and yet we find him playing as right back. A position he CAN play but NOT according to the needs of the team. What is the role of the RB ? Defending and making forwards runs. Djourou does neither to the level we expect from him. And he has been at Arsenal for 8 years now. Who will buy him if he is transfer listed ? Probably some League 2 side desperate to find a cover for their injured centre back.
The window is open now and if Wenger wants spot no 4 in the league table he has to sign a player. Sagna should be back so I am not concerned that much about Djourou right now, but regarding Theo the manager has to find a player who can replace him. You may think that this will hinder Chamberlains growth, well ask yourself this. What growth will Chamberlain have if he competes with a brainless baboon who can only run fast ?
Realistically, if we plan to sell Theo how much do you think we can get from him. More importantly, who will buy him ? Wenger will not even sell to any of our rivals, so that leaves clubs from 9th to 20. Maybe Blackburn Rovers, because of the new Indian owners. Anything over 10 quid will be a profit for us.
Many people say that Theo is still improving and that he just needs to get certain parts of his game right. But how much time should one take to improve certain aspects of his game ? He has been at Arsenal for 5 years, and do we ever hear different criticism regarding his performance.
Why is he even an Arsenal player ?
Wenger needs a reality check and he needs it FAST.
The Return of the King
Thierry Henry left Arsenal on 25th June 2007 when he signed for the FC Barcelona. And now we get the news that he returns.
Personally, I love it. We are getting back the fucking King.
That being said I feel that the impact of Henry’s return with respect to HIS playing on the field will depend on his fitness. Whats the use of getting a player for 2 months and seeing him play 10 mins of every game ?
The psychological impact however will be immense.
When he played in the premier league, we all knew he was quick. And we knew that this guy could control the ball and move in tight spots. Remember the goal against Liverpool at Highbury ?
But frankly, now it will be difficult for him. Ofcourse, he will still have the same amount of intelligence, ability, and skill (he may have even improved it) but the league will really test him on the physical side. Honestly, I don’t expect Henry to complete games. Well, atleast for the 1st month of his 2 month loan. He has been brought in to provide cover for Gervinho. But I don’t think he will be able to do that constantly for 2 months. Yes, I know Arshavin will be there but personally, I can’t picture Henry to start or even play every single game for 2 months.
Wenger stated that he only sees positives coming out from the transfer. I, on the other hand have not even looked at the negatives. I think I may cry when I see Henry wearing the Arsenal jersey and walking into the Emirates with the ‘Eminem’s Square dance”(First few lines) playing as the background track. Fuck.
As a player we all know what the man is capable off. But as Wenger said, the man will bring more than we expect. Mentally he will bring this Arsenal squad alot. Younger players already look up towards Henry. Moreover he can even advice the young guns like Coquelin and Ramsey on how to cope up with the league, and the media. Robin said that Henry was talking to Coquelin before the QPR game and look how he performed !
As Gooners we all welcome the King back. The only thing which bothers me is his health. A statue of the man outside the stadium with the real guy playing inside, imagine that…
We deserved it. Fulham FC 2-1 Arsenal FC
Arsenal stumbled to 2-1 defeat at the hands of Fulham today. The match was a match of 2 halves with the home side edging it to ruin our new year celebrations.
The game started with the homeside taking the initiative. However equilibrium was established 3 mins later when Fulham responded with a corner, and some added pressure..
On 7, Gervinho flashed his volley from a corner over.
Fulham were giving us a game, and in numerous occasions the Arsenal defense was caught out of place.
But by the 15th min everything had come down to place with both teams ready to go on further.
On 20, we took the lead. Koscileny got his head at the end of a lofted cross from Ramsey, tucking the ball into the net. Seconds later, Stockdale’s solo effort(s) at the end of a slick Arsenal moves denied the second.
From that time, the pressure on Fulham increased. It was a constant flow until Ruiz put his foot down after flashing a shot left of Szczesny’s post.
On 32, Stockdale caught Robin’s shot after a nice cross from Coquelin from the left.
If I say that Fulham were not giving us any competition then I would be wrong. We were good but the homeside also were pretty good. They defended well, and they did pose an attacking threat.
The second half however started the opposite.
Honestly, the Arsenal defense were holding on. DJ fouled Dempsey to earn a yellow card and the away side a freekick. Murphy took it and Senderos’sw header just missed Szczesny’s left-side post. Minutes later Dempsey flashed his header skimmed the post.
It looked like Arsenal disappeared in the second half.
On 70, the away side responded as Gervinho drove in from the right before firing a wayward shot that did little to bother Stockdale. 4 mins later Szczesny’s did well to block Ruiz’ shot heading for the back of the net.
On 77, DJ was sent off due as Zamora fell down just outside the D-box, all be it theatrical.
But on 84, the Arsenal defense was broken. Sidwell with a header into Szczesny’s net after the defense failed to react to the second ball left be headed in mid-air.
And the winner was got on 92, when Zamora’s volley fund the back of Szczesny’s net.
The entire second half was played in the Arsenal half and we deserved it.
Bad way to start the New Years Gooners,
Very Bad way
Hard to swallow but it has to go in…best of luck with that !
The Preview : Fulham FC vs Arsenal FC
When United went to Fulham they won 5-0. It will be difficult for Arsenal to do that. Vermaelen has been ruled out for 2 weeks, so that means that we now have NO official left-back.
3 points is vital at Fulham to ensure that the flow from 2011 continues in 2012. Robin is in very good form and Wenger believes that he can continue this run in 2012.
I don’t know why it changes at midnight at the end of the year.”
Wenger has also stated that he will be looking for a left back as soon as the window opens because apparently he believes it will be stupid for the club to drop points if they don’t have a left-back.
” It would be stupid for us to drop points because we don’t have a left back”
How about Messi ? Fast, can dribble and he can cross, hope AW considers it. Just 120 million pounds !
Anyway, here is what the line up MAY look like :
We drew with Fulham the last time we met them at the Emirates. Before that we faced them at the Cottage on the last day of last season, where the scoreline was 2-2. Both teams will be tired due to the heavy fixture lists they have been through so I don’t expect a very high scoring game at all. They beat Liverpool 1-0 and they can upset us also.
Cheers,
DKD
PS : I have not included Henry here although he is eligible because I don’t think he will play against Fulham. May probably be on the bench !
