Intricate Passing

Why it was important to finish 4th

2013-05-24T10:45:00.000+01:00

first of all, it enabled us to finish above those muppets. Yet again. Even with their greatest ever points tally.

but finishing 4th, and consequently gaining entry into Europe's elite competition, holds more importance than that. More so than any of the previous 16 seasons.

I'm not pleased at settling for 4th, I've stated many times I would love us to go all out for the FA Cup. I grew up in a time where Arsenal were consistently in the latter stages of that competition, and getting knocked out by lower league opposition seemed somewhat ridiculous.

But here we are. We have plenty of reasons to be optimistic. The past two seasons have been horrible. Unbearable to watch at times. I've even made plans on matchdays just so I don't have to see us struggle and be downhearted at what I'm seeing. This summer though, is crucial. We have the upper hand over the top teams - continuity. And by all accounts, we have the means to improve. Really improve. The calibre of players we are being linked to, and all the noises coming out of the club, signals a change in tactic from all involved at the club. Arsene Wenger has certainly rediscovered his winning streak, as shown by dropping his No.1 and captain, working to brilliant effect. If you've seen him on the touchline this season, can you honestly say he likes finishing fourth?

None of us do. But can you imagine what finishing in 5th place would have done? Once we are out of the top 4, it is going to be very hard to get back into it. Just look at Liverpool, not long ago they ran Man Utd very close to the title 4 years ago.

We now have a springboard to use to challenge at the very top. It feels like finally, we are coming out of our transition. In that transition, we have maintained a top 4 position. That cannot be overlooked. Wenger is a genius for guiding us to that.

This summer feels different. We have no dark clouds hanging above us, the only key players who will leave (Thomas Vermaelen and Bacary Sagna) are on our say so. Which feels bloody good.

The players should be proud of their achievements in the past few months, but should not rest at that. Time to kick on, and make up some ground on those 3 teams above. All 3 teams above us, incidentally, who will have new managers in charge. How they get on is a lottery as far as I'm concerned.

Definitely looking forward to who we bring in. I genuinely feel we will sign someone with a huge 'wow' factor, someone along the lines of a Santi Cazorla type playmaker.

Finishing in the top 4 keeps us ticking over very nicely, and provides the perfect springboard for the season ahead. Times are changing at Arsenal, and certainly for the better.

Let's learn from previous mistakes and get our business done early.

Plenty of reason to be optimistic

2012-08-22T14:06:00.000+01:00

Hello all.

It has been a while since I've done this. A mix of moving house, changing work and probably most damning, the lack of enthusiasm to write about the red and white half of North London.

We started last season poorly, recovered quite well in the middle part before slowly dragging ourselves over the finishing line. We finished third. Tottenham finished fourth. A very important outcome giving eventual Champions League winners Chelsea effectively wiped out the fourth place spot. Job done. A huge result that we may look back on in years to come as defining.

I think people over look the importance of finishing in the Champions League. Finishing outside of the top 4 represents many things: a reduction of income, a hit in prestige and the loss of key players. Now, you could argue we lose key players despite finishing in the Champions League places, and that is fairly evident. We've lost Ashley Cole, Thierry Henry, Kolo Toure, Gael Clichy, Emmanuel Adebayor, Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas over the years. This year, we've lost Robin van Persie and Alex Song. But it is this year, that something feels different. Different in the fact we've brought in quality, in quantity. We've signed Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and most impressively, Santi Cazorla. We got these guys in before letting Alex Song and Robin van Persie leave. Would this have been achievable had we failed to beat West Brom at the end of last season? Highly, highly unlikely.

My last point about achieving a top 4 finish is that it represents a tough cycle. Ask Liverpool fans. They are finding it harder than ever to get back into the top 4, after so many years of playing in the Champions League. Is players like Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam and Andy Carroll worth the exclusion of Champions League football at the expense of a Carling Cup? Whilst winning the league is the dream, hell even an FA Cup here or there would be nice, Champions League football in the requirement.

So Arsenal are in the Champions League. Again. Because of that, we've negated the loss of Robin van Persie in my opinion. Yes, he scored a lot of goals last season. He scored the majority of our goals. But, a club like Arsenal are always going to create chances. Not once did I agree we were a one man team. It wasn't as if Robin van Persie beat 10 men on his own and slotted past the keeper 30 odd times last season. He scored the odd wonder goal, and we all appreciated that. Robin van Persie was brilliant, because we made him brilliant. From the fans chanting his name week in week out, to the boss who put so much faith into him and to the players who created for him. How many assists did Theo Walcott rack up, to allow the Dutchman to finish off the simplest of moves? Robin van Persie is now no longer an Arsenal player. I don't wish him the best, but I also don't wish him an injury or anything of the like. He's nothing to me now.

Between Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud, we've replaced our former captain. I'm particularly excited to see how the towering Frenchman gets on. He looks a classy, yet powerful hitman. I expect him to hit the net 10+ times this season. He had a chance to score the winner versus Sunderland at the weekend, but missed. Scores, and he's a hero. Football really is a fine line. Who is to say van Persie would of scored that? Because he scored every single chance presented to him last season? I'm sure the AC Milan game at home confirmed that. Lukas Podolski is an explosive player we just cannot write off. It will take him a while to get to grips with our game, but he is very reminiscent of van Persie. Once Arsene Wenger has trained him, Podolski will be an absolute success. Of that I am sure.

First day of the season is a funny time of year. We judge so quickly. Swansea are en route to win the league, and QPR are doomed to relegation already. The midfielder from Swansea, Michu, is already been talked about as a bargain. He may very well be an excellent signing, but those two goals might be the only goals he scores this season. Time will tell.

Arsenal drew with Sunderland. A rugged Sunderland hell bent on not attacking. Huge crisis? Well, we didn't lose. We didn't concede. Two positives right there. And positives from individual players. Gervinho sparkled in parts, Abou Diaby showed glimpses and Santi Cazorla looks like an outrageously gifted player.

This team isn't ready yet. A lack of pre season is the reason for that I guess. Combinations and understandings are still to be formed. But the potential is there. With news of the impending arrival of Nuri Sahin on loan from Real Madrid, hopefully with an option to buy, we have the hallmarks of a quality squad. A squad of technically amazing footballers. The one thing I was downhearted about last season, was that our wow factor was missing. Our passing and movement, one touch interplay seemed lacking at times. Now, we hopefully return to that with freshness and purpose.

I am once again optimistic of the season ahead. I don't think we will win the league, but I don't think we will be far away. As for the Champions League, who knows? It could be our year.

With lots of transfer activity to happen between now and September, the feel good factor should reappear for the Arsenal.

Bring on the season ahead.

Thanks for reading.

An apology to Arsene Wenger

2012-03-26T10:29:00.001+01:00

I've been meaning to write this post the past week, but work schedule etc has hampered that. If truth be told, I haven't had the motivation to write about the Arsenal pre the Tottenham, and I don't know whether that makes me a bad supporter or not, but I really hate being negative.

Thankfully, due to current form, I have nothing to be negative about. And that is down to one man, Arsene Wenger. Humble pie time, and I hold my hands up and admit I started to question him after the Sunderland defeat in the FA Cup. I thought he lost his aura amongst the players, that like the last previous seasons, he fails to motivate the players when it really matters. Well, he has proved me completely wrong. And I couldn't be more delighted for him. Barring the last 5 years, I've grown up supporting Arsenal during a time when it was easy to. We won a lot of trophies, and played absolute outstanding football. The man behind all of that: Arsene Wenger.

Unlike others, I'm happy to admit I'm wrong. I don't know why I questioned him, I've long been a huge huge fan of his and although I still feel this will be his last contract with us, he has earned the time to have a few bad periods. Just where would we be without him? Who else is competing with the megabucks of City and Chelsea with just a fraction of the money. The others, who like Wenger are very stubborn, will use last Summer as a stick to beat him with. He's gone on record to say it was a nightmare of a summer, losing two huge players, but what he has done since then is remarkable. During January I think we had something like 32 full backs injured, which understandably contributed to our wobble in form. He stood by his injured players, hoping we would cope without them. We didn't. Should he have got in a couple of full backs? Well, no. During January I wasn't part of the clamour for him signing a defender. I didn't think we were desperate for a Wayne Bridge-esque signing. As it happened, we had to make do with makeshift defenders playing out of position. Since then, we have seen Kieran Gibbs and Bacary Sagna come back to some sterling form. What would happen to those guys if we signed another defender? It would of been an unnecessary use of money in my opinion.

I fear Arsene Wenger does not get enough praise. It's bemusing to read/hear in the media how the Arsenal fans have lost patience with the manager. That's a minority. And it's the fans who think we have a divine right to win everything in our path. Well we don't, football isn't like that. You can't really put a price on what Arsene has brought to this football club.

I will always remember this season. Maybe for all the wrong reasons, but there have been some great moments too. The season of comebacks. And Arsene Wenger has had a brilliant comeback. 2-0 down against Tottenham, we managed to go into halftime drawing 2-2. That first half Theo Walcott had a shocker. Many calls were for him to be taken off. Wenger persisted. And Theo produced a devastating second half performance. We won 5-2 that game by the way.

So to Arsene Wenger, I am sorry. I never should have questioned you, and nor should any other Arsenal fans. With one or two quality signings next season, along with keeping star players, there is absolutely no reason why we can't challenge for the title.

And Arsene Wenger is the man to mastermind that challenge.

Our run at the San Siro set to continue

2011-12-16T11:53:00.000+00:00

Well, that's the beauty of the Champions League, isn't it? Isn't it, people of Manchester?

We've drawn Italian giants AC Milan in the next round. Could of been easier, but also could of been harder. Two fantastic ties await and I for one am excited. The San Siro is a marvelous stadium, and the players should thrive on playing there. We also get a memorable European night at the Emirates Stadium, adding to it's new history.

Our last two games at the San Siro have been very memorable. a 5-1 win against AC rivals Inter, a game where Thierry Henry ran riot, and a 2-0 win over AC a few seasons back where I truly developed a love for Cesc Fabregas. You compete in the Champions League to play in these games. Every team who is left in the competition aren't here by luck, they've deserved it over the 6 games.

What we've got is another test for our team. Travelling to Milan will be brilliant, and I'm really confident of winning the tie. They have Robinho, who never really cut it at Madrid or Man City, Zlatan Ibrahimovic who has never really done it on the big stage and ageing players such as Gattuso. The two players I'd look out for are Alex Pato and Kevin Prince-Boateng. Good players, but not high level quality you'd have to admit.

Will be very jealous of the gooners who get to travel to the game, Milan truly is a brilliant city.

Back to things domestic...

We face a second test of the season, travelling to the Eastlands to face Man City. I feel we are playing this game at a perfect time. A combination of a Man City rocky patch, and our increase in form has raised expectations a little. After the Manc derby, I really feared playing this game. Since then, we've looked better with each passing game, and more than capable of winning this game.

I'd expect the same team that faced Everton, with the back four staying the same. They are going to have to be at their best, as we all know how good Man City are attacking wise. One change I could see happening is Yossi Benayoun replacing Gervinho, just to solidify the team up a little and won't leave us to open to attack. Bringing Gervinho on in the last 20 minutes could also prove to be a masterstroke.

Looking at the TV schedule and it seems Sky have finally got it right. A Super Sunday; QPR vs Man Utd, Aston Villa vs Liverpool and the main event, Man City vs Arsenal.

Bring it on. Enjoy your weekend.

A memorable day produces a memorable scoreline

2011-12-12T09:50:00.001+00:00

and a memorable goal by a Dutchman very on form. Sounds all a bit familiar doesn't it?

1-0 to the Arsenal was the score, on a day where we celebrated our 125th anniversary. Watching the celebrations, with legends like Charlie George and Frank McLintock taking to the pitch highlights how every step Arsenal take requires bags of class.

If truth be told, I was slightly concerned that the occasion might overshadow the game, but thankfully two moments of brilliant, creating one goal, sealed three points. Alex Song's pass was out of this world. Deserving of a finish. And Robin van Persie came up with the goods. Watch the goal over and over again and admire the technique. I play football, well I try to, and skill like that just cannot be taught. Absolutely world class. The legends watching on from the stand will be waiting for the day Robin van Persie joins them as one of the elite Arsenal players. He is just that good.

It raised more digs from the media etc over being a one man team. This really pisses me off and is disrespectful, if not hypocritical. Remember the Arsenal who played glorious football yet had no end product? The Arsenal who walked the ball into the back of the net, who had no cutting edge? Well right now we are creating chances for van Persie and he is finishing them off with aplomb. Are Barcelona, rightly considered the best on the planet, a one man team due to the exploits off Lionel Messi? Not at all. The 10 players supporting Messi provide him the base to perform on. And van Persie is our very own Lionel Messi.

Important? Of course. Carrying this team? I wouldn't say so.

The midfield triumvate of Alex Song, Mikel Arteta and Aaron Ramsey display a potent mix in the middle of the park. The understanding between the three is absolutely outstanding, and the injured Jack Wilshere faces a real fight to win his place back. And that statement right there shows just how well the three of them are playing right now. They are dominating games which is what I love to see.

We lined up with four centre backs playing across the back four, and for a minute I thought I had missed the part where Tony Pulis became the new Arsenal manager. I jest of course. Injuries forced that move, and you'd have to say the strength in depth is a real bonus this year.

The main worry is upfront. van Persie is performing miracles at the moment, and his replacements aren't up to the task. I am bewildered by the form of Maraoune Chamakh. Something has happened. His confidence has been shot to pieces, and he needs a run of games for his form to return. Sadly that shouldn't be at Arsenal, and I wouldn't bet on him leaving in January on an initial loan move, most likely back to Bordeaux. Still, least he didn't cost £35 million. or £50 million. Ahem.

I'd love us to sign Lukas Podolski in the January window. In World Cups and Euro Championships he is a real explosive player, a match winner. It hasn't quite happened for him at club level, but we have a special man in charge who gets the best out of attacking players. And with Mario Gotze supplying him, I'm sure he will do fine for us ;-).

Everything is looking rosy for Arsenal, we are back in the top four and deservedly so. Honestly, do not underestimate the recovery we have shown. Absolutely outstanding but the hard work doesn't stop here. In fact, this is just the start for a team with the right balance.

Our special neighbours who have enjoyed their best start in a long time, find themselves ahead of us by 2 points and a game in hand. Amazing huh?

Oh, did I mention we suffered our worst start to the season in a long long time? My bad.

I think young Jacky Wilshere will be the winner of his bet against the Tottenham fans.

A chance for the forgotten boys

2011-11-29T09:34:00.001+00:00

Tonight we have a very tough game against league leaders Man City.

I have no idea of the team we will face, but even if it is a back up team full of fringe players, such is Man Citys strength in depth, the quality will be very high.

The likes of Yossi Benayoun, Maraoune Chamakh and Ju Young Park will get their chance to stake a claim for a first team place, whilst youngsters such as Emmanuel Frimpong, Francis Coquelin and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will be using this chance as a catalyst for more first team action.

Buoyed on by the home crowd, tonight we should see a hungry team with a lot to prove. This is by far our biggest test in this competition this season, and hopefully we can come out on top. After last seasons disappointment, I would like us to win this trophy. It would represent some sort of turnaround, exorcising the demons of Wembley earlier in the year.

Two players I'm looking forward to seeing are Ju Young Park, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Two exciting players who have the ability to be match winners.

This season, whilst not going gung-ho for the cup, the big clubs are treating this competition with a lot of respect, mixing youth with experience. Arsene Wenger has followed the same route so expect the likes of Andrey Arshavin and Gervinho to play their part.

An exciting encounter awaits tonight, and I have a good feeling we will win.

2-1 to the mighty Gooners, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain running the show.

Enjoy folks.

Putting things into perspective

2011-11-28T11:43:00.001+00:00

Morning guys

Football has taken a back seat this weekend past, and quite rightly too. The shocking death of Wales manager Gary Speed has left me devastated, reading the tributes has left tears in my eyes. It's strange how someone you never know can affect you.

A bright young manager, Premier League league legend Gary Speed had a prosperous managerial career ahead of him. I watched him on Football Focus, which was screened live, just under 24 hours before he took his own life. He looked well, full of life and for not for one minute did I think he was contemplating any thoughts of suicide.

Which is why suicide and/or depression is a touchy subject. In sport, you can be on top of your game, yet something is beating you inside. The only way out is death. An awful feeling. I've read on Twitter people speculating about his family life. Well I'm sorry, but show some fucking respect. A young man has died, let's mourn that first and foremost.

I know when a leading figure dies that the tributes come in, I have to say I've been taken aback by a man clearly loved by many. I watched the Swansea game and during the one minute silence, the crowd broke out in applause, which chants of ''One Gary Speed'' ringing around the ground. A very lovely, moving tribute.

As it happens, this tragic death will raise awareness of suicide and depression in sport. It's sad that it has taken a high profile death, but everyone needs to realise this is an important case, and not one to be brushed aside lightly. It affects all manner of people.

If you are in this battle, I hope you find a positive solution.

A draw between Fulham means little right now, much more is at stake than a point against a spirited side.

RIP Gary Speed, you will be sorely missed by so so many.

Norwich vs Arsenal; the season starts now

2011-11-18T12:58:00.001+00:00

Well well well

It has taken us a while to get here but thankfully the time has come. Arsenal are back in action!

We travel to Norwich on Saturday afternoon. Hopefully the break has revitalised us in terms of energy, and our form can continue.

For me, the season starts here. We've had a bad spell, we've recovered, the players are starting to gel. We've had the break, now the hard work truly starts here. Paul Lambert's men have impressed, with three impressive showings against Chelsea, Man Utd and Liverpool. Whilst they were defeated against Chelsea and Liverpool, they were by no means an embarrassment. The front pair of Grant Holt and Steve Morison are a real handful, and our centre backs will need to be on form, as they have been in the past few games.

We go into this game bereft in the full back position. Kieran Gibbs has undergone surgery and will be out for 4-6 weeks, Carl Jenkinson has a back injury requiring a few weeks rest and Bacary Sagna will miss most of the season. This gives Johan Djourou the chance to stake a claim at right back. He impressed at Stamford Bridge, so he definitely is capable.

Forgotten man Abou Diaby is back in training. I'm a big fan of the Frenchman. I hope he can put his injury worries behind him and realise his potential. He could be a massive asset to us this season. I really don't know what the team will be tomorrow as we now have plenty of options across the park.

I'd love to see Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ju Young-Park get a run out, these two players are exciting to watch. As for the game, I think we will win. 3-1 to the good guys. It will be a challenging match, with the Carrow Road faithful buoyed and roaring their team on. Having said that, our team is stronger so over coming that shouldn't be a problem.

Have a good weekend, here's to three points!

Back into the swing of things

2011-11-17T10:18:00.001+00:00

Hoorah!

The dull mist of the interlull has cleared up, and Arsenal are within viewing distance (provided you can wait 48 hours)

I will admit, this interlull hasn't been too painful given Arsenal's recent run of results. By all accounts, our players have had a good international break which is good.

November is usually a horror month for us, but I'd like to say we're over our bad run of form now. We've got a lovely bit of momentum behind us and to keep that going we just have to keep winning the next game.

On Saturday lunchtime, we travel to Norwich who have had an impressive start to the season. A favourable tie to get us back into the groove, but by no means easy.

Keeping this post short and sweet, as I will go into a match preview tomorrow.

That is pretty much it for today, can I just say (and excuse my french) but what a complete cunt Sepp Blatter is. Name one business where you can do such an incompetent job yet i) be safe in your position, and ii) and get paid so handsomely for.

the mind boggles, it truly does.

A look to the future

2011-11-15T10:58:00.001+00:00

For as long as I can remember, the future of Arsenal football club has always been bright. We've always had young players to look forward to, to see them progress through the ranks. This time around though, the quantity as well as the quality is higher than at any other period I can remember.

We have four first teamers who have the ability to stay at the highest level for the best part of 15 years. Wojciech Szczesny, Kieran Gibbs, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere are all part of our first team, and around them we can develop into the worlds elite.

We have exciting players on the fringes: Emmanuel Frimpong, Francis Coquelin, Ryo Miyaichi, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ignasi Miquel. We have seen glimpses of them this season. Not a lot, but enough. That is ten players there. I fully expect at least six of them to become integral parts of this football club. Next are the likes of Benik Afobe, Chuks Aneke and Oguzhan Ozyakup who all have the potential to be part of Arsenals future.

Out on loan, we have Henri Lansbury, who I feel will be a great member of the squad to have. I really rate him. And being rewarded with a new contract before his loan departure to West Ham, it would seem Wenger rates him too.

As Arsenal FC, given the way we are run, we will always have up and coming youngsters coming through. What impresses me is the number of players coming through together. Look at Barcelona, it took years for them to achieve what they have. Could we achieve the same?

Well that is very plausible.

This group of players all seem to get along with each other, as displayed on Twitter. Which I love to see. Football is an enjoyment, they should be enjoying playing football. That enjoyment will translate into performances on the pitch.

We have a great bunch coming through, let's hope they reach their potential.

Thanks for reading.

A new challenge awaits

2011-11-14T12:26:00.001+00:00

So, let's clear this up: England will win the Euro Championships. Might as well give them the trophy now. Winning that competition will also be the catalyst for them winning the World Cup. Ahem.

I hate the interlull. I'm sick of international football. It really doesn't mean anything to me. Club football will always come first. I can't feel the same way about England as I can Arsenal. Just ain't gonna happen.

We face an interesting interlull this time around though. We have had a break whilst inform, as apposed to a defeat. I hope we hit the ground running as soon as we return to action.

And there's no reason why we can't. The players are hitting form, gelling together nicely as a team led by the star performer, Robin van Persie. Returning in good spirits is a new thing for us this season, and I hope the team don't forget the run of form they were in previously.

The way we recovered from our disastrous start to the season is admirable. We are on level terms with the media darlings, Liverpool. Who'd have predicted that?

There is still alot of work left to do, but I'm sure we have the right set up to ensure we are in safe hands.

Hope you have a bearable day at work, thanks for reading.

11 players pulling in the right direction

2011-11-06T18:51:00.001+00:00

Yesterday we recorded a 3-0 win, a comprehensive victory. How often has that been the case this season?

Yes, West Brom aren't the greatest of teams. But the manner of our victory is another plus point as we rebuild from a horrific start to the season.

We find our rythym on Saturday, and the most pleasing thing for me is that we still have a lot more room for improvement. 11 players out on the pitch all fight for the same cause, battling for each other and helping each other out. I watched the full game on Sky Sports re run and I have to say the work rate pleased me.

Our midfield is gelling into a neat combination. Mikel Arteta works very hard, keeps the ball very well but is starting to show his class in the final third. Aaron Ramsey is starting to take responsibility and is driving the team forward. But it is Alex Song who keeps impressing me. I wouldn't say he is a defensive midfielder, he is an all rounder. His job in this team is to provide defensive stability, which he is improving. But his attacking play is also important to the team. Between the three of them, they provide the platform for the team, interchanging positions and roles in the team.

Our front three are the same. Of course, our attack is always going to be potent with Robin van Persie leading the line. But Gervinho and Theo Walcott, both interchanging, work hard for the team and are important to our build up.

It took us 22 minutes to open the scoring yesterday, with Robin van Persie knocking in the rebound from a Theo Walcott shot who was played in superbly by Aaron Ramseys slide rule pass. We doubled our lead shortly before half time, with Thomas Vermaelen finishing off a move, neatly finishing past Ben Foster following a knock down from our brilliant Dutch man.

The second half was a breeze, with all the hard work done. We finished off proceedings with the best goal of the game. Neat work by Robin van Persie and Tomas Rosicky teed up Mikel Arteta who finished magnificently into the bottom corner from just outside the box. His first goal at the Emirates, hopefully more will come.

So a 3-0 win. A clean sheet, no injuries and remarkably for a Premier League game, neither sound found themselves in the referees book. That win took us level with the World's Greatest Team with the greatest history etc, Liverpool. I see that splashing out money does wonders. Compare Gervinho's stats with Stewart Downing for a little taster!

I'm still not getting carried away, a lot of hard work left to be done but it is warming to see we are on the right track heading in the right direction. When the players put in the effort, you cannot ask for more than that. We have a likeable bunch of players, who are very talented. With a few more additions, you can't help but think the outcome would be rather special indeed.

Hope you have had a good weekend.

The One Man show (with a stellar supporting cast)

2011-10-31T11:00:00.000+00:00

what a weekend. I have to admit, I had a good feeling we would win the game. Maybe a 1-0 or a 2-1 win, but never did I see us going to Stamford Bridge and win 5-3. A true footballing classic, made all the sweeter by us returning home with 3 points in the bag.

With regards to the media, it seems as though we cannot win. Robin van Persie is in terrific form, and his cutting edge is winning us games. What's the problem with that? Barcelona are lauded on a daily basis, yet if Lionel Messi couldn't score would they be as effective? Messi is part of the team and does his job which is scoring goals. Are they a one man team? No. Are Arsenal a one man team? well, no. He is without doubt our star player right now, but don't forget those performing around him.

Mikel Arteta was superb on Saturday, and is looking a brilliant addition by Arsene Wenger. Aaron Ramsey had one of his finest games in the red and white, showing his undoubted potential. Laurent Koscielny continued to impress with a classy showing at the back. People are saying that once Thomas Vermaelen is back to full fitness, Koscielny will find himself third choice. Not for me. Theo Walcott had an amazing 90 minutes, showing the fans how important he is to our game, and Gervinho is getting better and better with every game he plays.

I'd also like to ask the press if we are a one man team, why not tear into Chelsea for getting torn apart by one man. Chelsea are title challengers, alot of people will agree with that. How about a bit of credit for humiliating them on their own turf?

By grinding out wins lately, we were due a good win. And I'm delighted it has come against Chelsea.

If we learnt anything on Saturday, it's that we have to do whatever necessary to keep our captain, Robin van Persie. A true leader, right in the Patrick Vieira/Tony Adams mould. He is leading from the front, and every member of the team wants to play for him. Whilst he seems to score every single one of our goals, don't forget the players who are setting the play up.

Hopefully Saturdays win marks a signal to the rest of the league. Write us off at your peril. I feel we have a few more of these huge wins left in our locker.

Steady as we go

2011-10-27T10:37:00.000+01:00

Morning all,

been around a month since I last wrote, and it that time we've put together a little bit of a run. 7 wins out of 8 in all competitions shouldn't be underestimated, and Arsene Wenger deserves all the credit for this.

The talent in the squad is there for sure. What I've most enjoyed about this run, strangely enough, is that we have yet to display our attacking ambitions in full. Sure, there has been glimpses, but nothing close to what we are capable of. Winning games whilst not playing at full tilt is a glorious trait to have.

We are now starting to see the capabilities of our new players. Mikel Arteta is imposing himself well in this team, Gervinho is looking a quality player, scoring and assisting goals of late. Per Mertesacker has been solid in the last few games and Andre Santos has put himself about well in the games he's been given. Ju Young-Park looked lively in the Carling Cup win over Bolton, netting the winner with a fabulous curling shot. All bodes well for the future, and this season.

Being written off at every corner might well just do us more good than harm. We are plugging away, winning games and to have recovered from such a disastrous start to the season, well it is very pleasing to see.

But lett's not to get carried away. We have a lot of work to do, no one can deny that. With the return of Thomas Vermaelen and Abou Diaby, the squad is again strengthening. With players like Park and Arshavin coming into some form, and with the outstanding contributions from van Persie, we are giving ourselves a good chance.

This Saturday we probably face our biggest test of the season. I know we've faced Man Utd and Liverpool, but that was when our team was all over the place. We've faced Tottenham too, but we should be looking to rival Chelsea, not that lot down the road. Chelsea are there for the taking in my opinion, and if we win this game, this season could outdo everyone's expectations.

thanks for reading.

One game for this team to arrive

2011-09-29T12:27:00.000+01:00

So that's three games we've won on the trot. How they been convincing? No. Have they been welcoming? Most definitely.

It's clear to see that a spark is missing in this team. But that will soon come, I have no doubt about it. We have a new team, maybe playing a new system and one day, we will click as a team and perform to the standard we know we can achieve.

Bolton last Saturday was a huge win. The first half at the Emirates was a nervy affair, but at the interval Arsene Wenger must have rattled his players as in the second half we were on the whole excellent. Robin van Persie was a true captain, leading by example and rallying his troops. In the process, he netted his 99th and 100th goal. A fitting achievement from our main man.

From that game we lost Gervinho, Theo Walcott and Laurent Koscielny to injury. Meaning our injury list expanded. Now, I have no idea what is going on. We have supposedly the best medical set up yet why do our players keep getting injured. I can accept players such as Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey and Abou Diaby getting injured as unlucky. But players like Theo and Gervinho getting muscle injuries every so often is such a worry.

Still, with such injuries, we rested Aaron Ramsey and Robin van Persie and gave a start to Marouane Chamakh and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for the visit of Olympiakos. And it was the young Englishmen who opened the scoring, finishing beautifully across goal to become the youngest Englishmen to score in the UEFA Champions League. I hold my hands up, when we signed this lad I was left a bit uninspired. I felt we didn't need him. I take it all back. He is going to be a quality player. Andre Santos opened his Arsenal account with a well taken goal to double our lead. We conceded a poor goal moments later, but held on for the rest of the game.

Per Mertesacker, Alex Song, Mikel Arteta and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all shone. Our new signings are hard workers, which is refreshing. Maybe Arsene Wenger earmarked this attribute as something this squad is missing.

Up next, is the acid test. Tottenham at White Hart Lane. What a perfect opportunity for this team to truly announce themselves as candidates for the Premier League title. No one is expecting us to win, so what a great way to remind the doubters that we are Arsenal. Optimistic in me says we will win, the pessimistic in me says we will draw. Bring it on!

Back tomorrow for a proper preview of the seasons first North London derby.

A bright glimpse into the future

2011-09-22T10:59:00.000+01:00

In the end, the Carling Cup did prove a bit of a distraction, even if we did get off to a bit of a nightmare. We regained composure and won the game 3-1, which is pleasing.

We went one nil down in the first quarter of an hour, and given recent events, I'd be lying to say I wasn't worried. Hearing on Sky Sports News that Shrewsbury came close to doubling the lead on numerous occasions didn't help matters either. We plugged away though, and got the equaliser from an unlikely source. Left back Kieran Gibbs headed in from a Carl Jenkinson cross. A huge sigh of relief all around the Emirates.

The second half was much better. We took control, capitalising on the lower leagues side deteriorating fitness levels. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain came to the fore, displaying power, pace, technique and a real footballing brain. It was the youngster who put us infront, unleashing a powerful effort from 25 yards, a good hit but the keeper may feel disappointed allowing that one in.

We got the first glimpse of Ryo Miyaichi at the Emirates, who showed flashes showing he could yet have a role to play this season. In the middle, Francis Coquelin was impressive. Very reminiscent of Matthieu Flamini in the last season at the club, only with a wider range of passing. Ignasi Miquel was assured at the back, looking the elder statesmen at the back alongside the declining Johan Djourou. Right now, I'd play the young Spaniard ahead of Djourou, such is the worry of the Swiss' current form. Yossi Benayoun completed the scoring with a fine finish inside the box.

On Tuesday night we seen some bright glimpses. Marouane Chamakh is playing his way into form, Ju Young Park looks classy, Frimpong and Coquelin acquitted themselves well and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain shown why Arsene Wenger spent big on his signature.

Like many, I'm pissed off that we are getting stick for having 46,000 turn up for a Carling Cup against Shrewsbury. How many stadiums in the Premier League can fit that amount of fans in their stadium?

Back tomorrow with a Bolton preview. Till then.

Carling Cup preview: A welcome distraction

2011-09-20T16:23:00.001+01:00

Tonight, we will see another new Arsenal. The pressure is off, and the fresh faced youngsters will get a chance to play infront of close to 60,000 people against a relatively weak side in Shrewsbury. They are a League Two side, and with all due respect, it is a good chance for the youngsters to brighten the place up after a few worrying performances from the senior men. We have a good distraction, and I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to it.

Team news tonight is that the expected plethora of young talent will complete the squad. According to Young Guns blog, the team will be:

Fabianski, Jenkinson, Djourou, Miquel, Gibbs, Frimpong, Coquelin, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Benayoun, Park, Chamakh.

I've seen alot of people say that those 11 players will be fitted into a 4-4-2 system. Personally, I think it will be more of the same formation wise. A 4-2-3-1/4-3-3 system will happen tonight. Chamakh will lead the line, and support from the wings will come from two of Benayoun, Park, and Oxlade-Chamberlain. Oxlade-Chamberlain has the ability to play central midfield, so him and Yossi Benayoun should be able to swap positions when necessary.

Francis Coquelin and Emmanuel Frimpong will provide the cover for our defence, allowing the front four to roam and create chances. These two defensive midfielders player alongside each other on the way to the Youth FA Cup and League double, so it will be a nice reunion for both of them.

Yossi Benayoun has a bit of pressure on him tonight, being the oldest in the team I expect him to be made captain. Who else could it be given to? We all know he has got bags of experience, and hopefully this will shine through to the younger players. The draw has been kind to us this year, allowing us the comfort of bedding in some of these players infront of the home crowd.

I'm pleased this game has come at this time, it allows a fresh impetus into the club, and players like Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ju Young Park are more than capable of creating the headlines for all the right reasons.

Ryo Miyaichi is poised to start the game from the bench, and I hope we get to see him in action tonight. In pre season, he was impressive. Talent and work rate aplenty. No doubt he is a rough diamond, but in Arsene Wenger we have the perfect manager to mould him into a world beater. Also on the bench are Oguzhan Ozyakup and Chuks Aneke. Two young creative players who I hope will see some minutes tonight if all goes according to plan.

The game hasn't sold out yet, and if you are in the area, I'd strongly suggest you go to the game. These kids will provide plenty of verve and entertainment. And after the past few days, we could do with it.

Come on the Arsenal.

One step forward, A few steps back

2011-09-19T11:07:00.000+01:00

Well, one thing is for sure. It's gonna be a long hard and ultimately, exciting season.

To get beat 4-3 by Blackburn, given the state that club is in, is quite humiliating. Why can't we hold on to leads anymore? We've changed the personnel massively from last year, so why is the same thing happening over and over?

Barring Vermaelen and Wilshere, we had our strongest team out. Andre Santos was given his first start, Song and Gervinho were both recalled and looking at the team sheet, I was pleased with what we had to offer. Within ten minutes, the returning duo combined to put us 1-0 up, Gervinho finishing off a lovely Alex Song pass. Easy street, surely? Well, not if you play in Red and White, it would seem. Yakubu levelled with a fantastic finish. Yet there were more moments where Blackburn troubled us, aerially. Hopefully we can sort this out sooner than later.

We went into the break 2-1 up with Arteta getting on the score sheet with a fantastic finish. After the break, Gervinho had a brilliant chance to score, opting to shoot rather than pass to an unmarked Robin van Persie. Disappointing, but we bemoan the lack of greediness in the side at times, so we can't have it all our way. The next 3 goals, terrifyingly, were scored by Blackburn. All defensive mistakes. I'm going to put it down to the fact these players are not use to playing alongside one another. Marouane Chamakh netted a consolation with an excellent header. His first in the league for 10 months.

So what's the problem? Well, a lot it would seem. Two strong results previously, we've now received a somewhat harsh setback. And I feel that is how this season is going to go. Some top results followed by shocking draws or defeats. And we just have to ride it out. Right now, if we don't pull ourselves together, we are in real danger of missing out on the Champions League.

A word on Johan Djourou. Just what is happening with him. He had a good half last season, but since his injury he has been woeful. Not good enough for Arsenal, or a team in the top half of the league.

Tomorrow we host Shrewsbury at the Emirates, hopefully a chance for the kids to show us the way again. Looking forward to seeing Ryo Miyaichi and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in action.

Well, that's the weekend over. A miserable one at that. Thank you Arsenal.

Slowly, we are returning

2011-09-16T13:14:00.000+01:00

It's been over two weeks since I last posted, and since then we've won against Swansea and drew against Dortmund in the Champions League. Progress? Slightly.

We're not playing excellent football, that will soon come, but we are efficient enough in our displays. A wonder goal (and it truly was a one off strike from Perisic) prevented us from winning away at Borussia Dortmund, who are a fantastic team.

To demand a high scoring victory over Swansea was extreme. The main objective was to win, and win we did. Unconvincingly it has to be said. At times we clung on. Yet a 1-0 victory over Swansea got us the same points as Man Utd got for beating us by a considerable higher scoreline. Yes, goal difference could come into things. But we have over 30 games to fix that.

If we can keep grinding out these results whilst our team are finding their feet, then we will definitely be up there with the best of them, in England and in Europe. Players like Yossi Benayoun and Mikel Arteta will influence this team, not only on the pitch but in the dressing room too. Ju Young Parks workrate will be infectious. Per Mertesacker's presence in the team will be exactly as it appears: commanding.

We aren't the Invincibles. No team will ever be that good. But we are still a very good side. With a lot of room for improvement. Wojciech Szczesny will carry on getting better, as will Kieran Gibbs, Emmanuel Frimpong, Aaron Ramsey and more frighteningly so will Jack Wilshere. Add this to prospects such as Ryo Miyaichi, Carl Jenkinson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain then there is plenty to be excited about.

Sure, we should be in a far better place. But not everything works out the way it should. We have to react to every hit we take, and we are just about getting there. If this season we can hang on and keep battling away, we will reach the summit of English football in the near future. Is this team capable of challenging for the top? Of course they are.

Tomorrow is another big test. We've fared better at Ewood Park in the past few seasons than what we usually do, and with Blackburn in a mess, I expect us to go and show what we're made of. Stand up and be counted. How many people have dismissed us? It's about time we shut the haters up.

Very slowly we are picking up momentum. Expect us to continue that tomorrow afternoon.

Maybe, yesterday salvaged our summer

2011-09-01T12:25:00.001+01:00

As a firm believer in this club and Arsene Wenger, let me state that I believe we've had an awful summer. Losing Cesc and Samir, losing out on targets (Alvarez and Jones) and being priced out of other targets (Cahill and Jagielka).

On Sunday evening, Wenger looked resigned. He knew we had a lot of faults in the squad and has looked to rectify the problems in the last few days of the transfer window. And you know what? He might just have done that.

It started on Saturday morning, with news filtering through that we've pipped Lille to the signing of South Korean captain Park Chu Young, the 26 year old from Monaco. The deal was finalised on Monday morning. He's a bit of an unknown quality, but like his cousin Park Ji-Sung, will add great qualities to our squad. He cost us under £2million pounds, and will add to our growing fanbase in Asia. A hard working classy player, I am sure he will be a brilliant addition to the squad.

Tuesday was an absolute hectic day at Arsenal. Rumours left right and centre over players we've bid for. Eden Hazard, Mario Gotze and even Wesley Sneijder were said to be in Arsenals thoughts. Defensively we closed in on two defenders. Not just any defenders either. Andre Santos, capped at left back 22 times for Brazil, will be a brilliant purchase. At 28 years old, he won't hinder Kieran Gibbs progress. He will simply help the Englishman develop into the player we know he can be. And at £6million, he represents another shrewd purchase from Arsene Wenger.

The next to come through the door was Per Mertesacker, who has an impressive 77 caps for Germany. At 6ft6 tall, he will add the height that many say we've lacked. The german has received a bit of criticism, saying his lack of pace will be his downfall. I don't buy this at all. John Terry, although a cunt, is one of the best defenders in the league. He has the pace of a snail on dope. Yet like Per, his reading of the game is what makes him the defender he is. Just a year older than Gary Cahill at 26, and with 74 caps more, Wenger might just have pulled a masterstroke here. He cost just £8m, compared to the £17m being mentioned for Gary Cahill.

These deals were officially announced on deadline day. Yet we were wanting more. I woke up feeling confident we were going to sign a major midfielder. Throughout the day, Yossi Benayoun was poised to sign for 3 or 4 different clubs. In the end, he joined us on a season long loan deal. Quite a decent deal. I don't expect him to play every week, but when he does play he will offer us another creative outlet. He is a clever player, with bags of experience. He has a big chance, joining Arsenal, to prove he still has alot left in him. And I'll will back the Israeli to come up with the goods. He's captain of his country, a running theme with our late transfers.

The best is saved till last. Until it was first mentioned, all credit to John Cross of the Mirror and Matt Law from the Daily Express, I never foresaw us signing Mikel Arteta. Around 5 o'clock, we lodged a bid. Around half 7 we pulled out of the deal. At 9 o'clock the deal was back on. Reminiscent of the Andrey Arshavin saga, it carried on right until the deadline. Lo and behold, the paperwork was finalised in time. Mikel Arteta is now an Arsenal player. I was delighted with this signing. Here is a player with a marvelous opportunity, to play Champions League football infront of passionate fans. He has the experience of playing in the Premier League, is very creative and will fit in perfectly to our set up. He has signed a four year deal, and cost around £10 million. A great deal, for everyone involved.

In the 5 players we brought in after Sundays shambolic showing, 2 of them (Benayoun and Park) are captains of their country. 2 more (Arteta and Mertesacker) have captained their former clubs on multiple occasions. Add that to Andre Santos, who himself brings alot of experience, our squad looks to have now found the right balance.

Players like Jack Wilshere, who was delighted with the signings, can learn from these players. Playing with better players also brings out the best in you. So that's why I think we have done brilliantly the last few days. Annoyingly, it looks to have taken a humiliating defeat at Old Trafford for this to happen. Had we done this business earlier, like Liverpool and Man Utd, all this could have been avoided. However, we can't complain. Arsene Wenger has earned his money. Whoever doubted Mr Wenger should apologise right now. He has come up trumps in my opinion.

I remember Gordon Strachan talking about this team a few months back, it might have been after the Carling Cup final. But what he said interested me. He said how a team has to take a few knocks before it reaches it's peak. Maybe Old Trafford was the final knock? Who knows. We are getting our Arsenal back. Bring on Swansea a week on Saturday.

Bring on the rest of the season.

Oh Arsenal, we love you

2011-08-29T10:00:00.001+01:00

But christ, you make it tough on us.

I expected defeat yesterday, what I didn't expect was that. Injuries didn't help us, but that also shows how weak our squad is. Forget the size of the squad, some players in the back up department are either to inexperienced (Jenkinson) or just nowhere near good enough (Traore)

It's heartbreaking to see Wenger in this state. For all his triumph at this club, it's seems as if his best is past him. He has 3 days to rectify that. And let's make no mistake, 3 or 4 quality players must come in for us to challenge the top 4. Liverpool have over spent on players, but it's worked. It's generated a buzz in and around the team, which is now transforming into results on the pitch. I'm not saying spend £35 million on Andy Carroll, just bring in quality players, no matter the price.

A few injuries here or there is bad luck. We've gone past that stage. How can we have players injured with muscle injuries before a ball is barely kicked? It's bemusing. And I hate the fact Arsene Wenger is prepared to over look that, using it as a claim that these players will make a difference to the side. Yes, they will make a difference, only when they play. If they don't play, bring in players that will. Who in the Premier League would sign Armand Traore? QPR are rumoured to be in for him. That says it all. He just isn't good enough.

I really fear for Arsene Wenger. In the interview after the game, he looked defeated. Like a broken man, close to tears. He has to now bring in quality players, for the sake of us job. The fans are restless, and one season of mixed results will be the end of him. I don't want him to ever leave, but right now, I think I'm in the minority. Wenger deserves the chance to save this club.

A word on Carl Jenkinson. I worry for him. He had a poor game, yes. But not for the lack of trying. He was cruelly exposed at times, and his lack of experience was evident. Johan Djourou, who has played countless games in the first time, shouldn't have put young Carl in the position where he had no option to bring down Hernandez and receive a second yellow. My main worry is how Jenkinson now reacts. He has to show great mental strength to bounce back from this.

Thank you to the travelling Arsenal fans. Probably the best performance from them, and that is saying something. Many stayed for 20 minutes chanting ''we love you Arsenal'' along with singing the whole way through the game. Incredible. A credit to the club. If it wasn't for them, I'd be feeling a lot worse today.

Here's to 3 busy days in the transfer market.

Thursdays will remain Spursdays

2011-08-25T11:00:00.000+01:00

That is more like it. The Arsenal I'm accustomed too.

A display full of courage and passion, verve and purpose. A critical game, and this team passed with admirable flying colours.

This isn't an indication that our squad are good enough for the season, but it's a nice indication. The likes of Jenkinson and Frimpong have impressed, Szczesny once again came to the fore and Theo showed us once again what he can do in the central striking position.

The first half belonged to Udinese, just as the second half belonged to Arsenal. Di Natale, impressive in the two legs, was the vocal point for the Italian side, everything going through him. It was his looping header that put Udinese ahead, and levelled the tie at 1-1. It was a bit of a hammer blow for us, but it was coming. We regrouped at half time and came out with real desire.

Gervinho, who amidst the departures of Cesc and Samir, has had the spotlight removed from him. Do not forget we have a special special player on our hands here. He can pass, dribble and works very hard. He created the first goal, taking on the full back and his pass finding Robin van Persie who fired into the net. 1-1 on the night, 2-1 on aggregate taking us through to the group stages. We needed to be strong for 5 or 10 minutes, so conceding a penalty shortly after left a bit of a sick taste. I had no idea what the penalty was given for, neither did the commentators. Upon the replay, it was given for handball by Thomas Vermaelen. Very very harsh indeed. This penalty was crucial. If they scored, Udinese regained momentum. Thank for the lord for one Wojciech Szczesny. WHAT A SAVE. Di Natale must still be thinking how it never went. He hit it high and hard towards the keeper, yet our young Pole was more than equal to it. I'm not quite old enough to remember David Seaman's penalty save against Sampdoria, but I'll never forget Jens Lehmann penalty save against Villareal. And for me, that penalty save was right up there. A moment to savour.

Our second was a thing of beauty. Theo Walcott, on the half way line, exchanged passes with Bacary Sagna. From then on, he always looked like he was going to score. He burst past his defender with consumate ease, and buried the ball past the keeper. Very Thierry Henry-esque. If we ever wanted proof Theo could make it as a centre forward, well there was it. He started the scoring in the tie, and finished. 2-1 to the Arsenal.

A big massive fuck off to all the doubters. Bizarrely, there is even some amongst the home fans. Last night we played superbly, with passion. But it's just the start. With a few additions, and I stand by the fact Wenger will add, we will be a real force. Even this season.

For now, rejoice in the Champions League. Leave the Europa League to that lot down the road.

Tonight is our biggest game in a long time

2011-08-24T11:49:00.000+01:00

Forget playing Barcelona, any of the top four or even Birmingham in the cup final, tonight's game eclipses all of them. We must go into the game with the right attitude. Failing to qualify for the Champions League would be utterly disastrous.

We travel to Italy minus 12 players, 13 if you include Samir Nasri. That seems quite a hefty amount of players missing, but the players who do travel are good enough to win this game. They aren't good enough to last the season at the top end, but nonetheless have enough about them to beat Udinese.

Last week at the Emirates, we got an early goal through Theo Walcott. Just what we needed. And just what we need tonight. An early goal will make it very difficult for the Italian side, who would then be needing three goals to progress.

We need all the experienced players to play tonight. Don't worry, I'm not demanding the recall of Sebastien Squillaci, who is hilariously marked down injured with a ''calf injury'' I would play Tomas Rosicky from the start, replacing Aaron Ramsey. I would bring in Alex Song to play alongside the impressive Emmanuel Frimpong. Now the Dench Man (Frimpong) has his first red card out the way, hopefully now the rush of blood to the head has calmed him down. His and Alex Song will provide a very strong base, and as Emmanuel Frimpong is very positionally disciplined, the blondilocks can venture further forward. Upfront, I'd pick the same three against Liverpool: Theo Walcott, Robin van Persie and Andrey Arshavin. They disappointed on Saturday, for sure. But they deserve the chance to get it right. And tonight, they will. At the back, I would move Bacary Sagna back to his favoured right back position, and bring in Armand Traore to play left back. His experience of playing in Italy could be useful. Johan Djourou will surely come in and partner Thomas Vermaelen. If not, I'd be happy with Ignasi Miquel.

I've left Gervinho on the bench, as I'd like to see what he can do as an impact player. I have a feeling he would start though, most likely in place of Theo Walcott.

Despite the injuries, still a fairly decent starting 11. And one which should triumph.

Tonight is a very important game, I hope the players are aware of this.

Arsene bites the bullet as Samir Nasri is off to City

2011-08-23T14:22:00.000+01:00

Arsenal have confirmed Samir Nasri is on his way to Man City, in a fee reported to be around £24m. Despite training with the team ahead of the trip to Udinese, the site have announced the deal has gone through with only a medical to be completed. We cannot argue with the price, £24m for a player who wants to leave and is out of contract next year is remarkable business.

Back in July, Arsene Wenger told the world he wanted to keep hold of both Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas in order to prove Arsenal are still a big club. Well things haven't gone to plan, and with the transfer window edging ever closer, Arsene needs to pull a few rabbits out of the hat. We have a good amount of money to spend, and a few are resigned to the fact Wenger won't spend. Not me. I refuse to believe a manager as great as Mr Wenger deems our current squad as ready.

The fans need to back the team, now more than ever. We have a vital game tomorrow, and it could shape our season even this early on.

As for Samir Nasri, I appreciated his efforts on Saturday. Unlike Luka Modric, he was strong enough to play infront of the home fans whilst angling for a move. I was excited when we first signed him three years ago. Remember, this guy replaced Alex Hleb and done it admirably. I think we can bring in another player to do the same, make us forget we had a player called Samir Nasri. Man City are though, getting a player capable of great things. His brace against Fulham last season was one of my fondest memories of him.

Now, Arsene and the board have to make sure this situation never happens again. We left it too late with Samir, and now with Theo and Robin approaching the same situation, we must sort them out with new contracts.

All the best to Samir Nasri, it pains me to say it but he's making a good move. Man City pay alot of money, will be challenging for titles and will be a force to be reckoned with.

For the rest of us, we must carry on through tough times.

When it rains, it certainly pours

2011-08-22T11:41:00.000+01:00

Morning gooners

In my lifetime of supporting Arsenal, I don't think luck has deserted us more. Be it injuries, suspensions or own goals, we are having a tough ride of it.

Had we had the likes of Song, Gervinho, Rosicky, Gibbs and Djourou available, I'm sure we would have fared better. Bacary Sagna started in the unfamiliar left back role, with new boy Carl Jenkinson making his Premier League debut at right back. Emmanuel Frimpong made his first start of the season in the defensive midfield position, with Aaron Ramsey and Samir Nasri ahead of him. The disappointing trio of van Persie, Arshavin and Walcott lead the attack.

As always, we kept the ball reasonably okay, but we miss Cesc Fabregas' decisive passing. The front three didn't have any major input into the game, which is worrying. When we substitute Theo Walcott for an unhappy Nicklas Bendtner, you know just how weak our squad is at the moment.

Just 15 minutes in, Laurent Koscielny went down injured. He was to be replaced by Spanish teenager Ignasi Miquel, with forgotten man Sebastien Squillaci nowhere to be seen. Which was telling. Miquel was slightly nervy but handled the occasion well I thought. One for the future, for sure.

Emmanuel Frimpong has the potential to be absolutely amazing. Tenacious, passionate and a warrior. His second yellow card was from a lack of experience, flying into a tackle with his studs showing, but his first was harsh. He shows fight and determination, which is more than can be said for the majority of this Arsenal team. He was one of our star performers, and up until his sending off, I didn't see us losing the game. If ever we needed the infamous mental strength, Saturday was it. After the sending off, it felt as if we were just waiting for Liverpool to win. And funnily enough, we decided to score for them. An Ignasi Miquel clearance ricocheted off of Ramsey, and looped perfectly over Wojciech Szczesny. A freak goal. Liverpool wrapped up proceedings in the final minute, Meireles squaring for Suarez to tap in to an empty net.

A confident absorbing defeat, it has to be said. For all the money Liverpool have spent, I still don't think they are a better team than us. Credit to Kenny Dalglish though. When we were reduced to 10 men, he sent on positive changes to win the game. £35m man Andy Carroll was shown up to be exactly what he is by Thomas Vermaelen, and that is bang average. I think Vermaelen won a high percentage of his aerial battles. Jordan Henderson for £20m, crazy.

A lot of people are calling for Arsene Wenger to spend. Me too. But I can understand he isn't willing to spend for the sake of it. Is it really gonna help spending ludicrous amounts on average players?

I would seriously expect two or three more signings. With the injury worries of Wilshere, Rosicky and Diaby, a midfielder should come in. And a player to replace Cesc/Nasri. And with the injury concerns of Djourou and Koscielny, a centre back has to come in. I can't second guess what Wenger will do. Only he and his team know. And whoever he brings in, with have my full backing.

Support this team, we aren't done in the transfer window just yet.