talkingArsenalFC

Gunners find Rhythm as they whitewash Blackburn.

2012-02-05T08:51:00.002+01:00

I would start by saying Happy New Year to all the readers and followers of this blog as this is my first post this year, I'm back and better and promise regular, interesting and juicy stuff this year.

Arsenal took on Blackburn yesterday at the Emirates in a must win encounter to keep them in the running for the fourth and final champions league spot and oh my,what a fantastic win it was. Arsenal was red hot and came with their scoring boots as they made Paul Robinson pick the ball out of his net seven times before the final whistle.

Arsenal looked like the team we once knew and loved, the team that used to put a smile on the faces of its fans and the team that not only creates chances but scores. The hunger and desire to win this match was visible for everyone to see, they only thing we ask and pray for is that they find consistency (something the Gunners have lacked in the last 4yrs)

Van Persie as usual was in the mix of everything good Arsenal did yesterday and thorougly deserved his hat trick. He scored and provided, top top player. Alex Oxlade Chamberlain!!! This dude is going to be world class, he looks like a player with a lil bit of Messi + Bale + C Ronaldo + Rooney. He has a lil bit of all their abilities and he is going to be a beast if he continues like this. Walcott looks to be coming back to form and showed that with his runs and assists yesterday but I am not wooed by that and I know Walcott is the most inconsistent professional soccer player alive, so I'm in support of a RVP, Ox, Gervinho trio to always start.

Was I the only one who noticed how quick and efficient the midfield was without Mr Ramsey? I hope Arsene took note of this and spares us the heartache of watching Ramsey run around the pitch like a Robot without control for 90mins on most matchdays. I have always said that he doesn't deserve to start and he should be locked up somewhere with Arshavin.

Next up is Sunderland, we all know the good work Martin has done there so far and they seem to be on the high with so much confidence and the important thing for Arsenal is to look to create chances and take them. 1-0 or 10-0, the important thing is 3 points.

WazobiaGooners! Loading...........

2011-11-11T16:59:00.000+01:00

Hey Gooners! I'm writing this post from a very uncomfortable place (a cybercafe). I have a problem with my internet connection (I'm presently in abeokuta :( ) that would be fixed soon and then i would be back to regular blogging.

I had to write this post no matter how short to announce the emergence of a brilliant idea.... its an online community of Nigerian gooners, a place where we can all meet,discuss,read updates on our beloved club Arsenal FC.

This idea was brought up by my Ogas and die hard gooners. @HexyDre @enigma106 follow them on twitter for updates and pls read this ......http://goonerdaily.wordpress.com/2011/11/11/wazobia-gooners-on-your-marks%E2%80%A6/C
As soon as it kicks off, it would be out there for everyone to see. This is just the beginning. Watch out, Nigerian Gooners mean business. :)

The 18 players in the squad presently at Marseille.

2011-10-18T22:09:00.000+01:00

Wenger flew into Marseille with an 18 man squad from which he would pick who starts and who remains on the bench against Marseille in tomorrows Champions League tie. Gibbs is out with a stomach injury but Aaron Ramsey is back in the team and in contention for a starting place in midfield.

Below is a full list of the players the made the flight.
Wojciech Szczesny
Lukasz Fabianski
Carl Jenkinson
Andre Santos
Per Mertesacker
Laurent Koscielny
Johan Djourou
Tomas Rosicky
Mikel Arteta
Alex Song
Theo Walcott
Gervinho
Yossi Benayoun
Francis Coquelin
Andrey Arshavin
Aaron Ramsey
Robin van Persie
Marouane Chamakh

Robin Van Persie to the rescue as Arsenal secure three points against Sunderland.

2011-10-17T22:13:00.000+01:00

It took Van Persie only 28 seconds to once again show his class by putting the ball into the back of the net and putting Arsenal ahead just after Howard Webb blew his whistle for the kick off of the game. Van Persie and Arsenal shone like a million stars for the first 30 mins of the game, dictating play and having the upper hand allowing Sunderland to feed on scrap but Sunderland found thier way into the game and took inspiration from a superbly taken free kick by Larsson.

Just like I said earlier today that Sunderland would come prepared hoping to leave with at least a point, Steve Bruces' line up ultimately confirmed it. He played a 4-5-1 formation, with 6 midfielders and 4 defenders leaving Sessegnon (a midfielder) upfront.

The second half kicked off and Arsenal started on the front foot again but failed to make any real impact as Sunderland kept their discipline. Arsenal had several opportunities from set pieces but squandered every chance they got until the 83rd minute when Arsenal had a free kick on the right side of the pitch (Van Persie territory) and Van Persie stepped up to take it and superbly curled the ball into the net much to the delight of Arsenal fans across the world and RVP himself (of course he was delighted, what else would explain taking his shirt off).

Arsenal was able to survive through the remender of the game as Sunderland pushed for a late equaliser. Arsenal walked away with the 3 points today and I'm sure this victory would help build the much needed confidence.

Here are my player ratings:

Wojciech Szczesny : 6.5

Carl Jenkinson : 5.5

Per Mertesacker : 6.5

Laurent Koscielny : 6.5

Kieran Gibbs : 6.0

Alex Song : 7.0

Mikel Arteta : 6.0

Tomas Rosicky : 7.0

Theo Walcott : 6.0

Gervinho : 6.5

Robin van Persie : 8.5

substitutes.

Andre Santos : 6.0

Yossi Benayoun : 6.0

Andrey Arshavin : 6.0

Arsenal banking on home form against Sunderland.

2011-10-16T00:57:00.000+01:00

I would like to start by saying that I am really sorry for staying away and not updating this blog in a while, its been due to things I could not help. I know I have lost a large part of this blogs' followership but good news is.....I am back and hope to get back my followership. :)

Okay, straight to the business of the day. Our dear Arsenal take on Sunderland at the Emirates later today hoping to secure all three points and continue an impressive home form which has seen them unbeaten in five out of six games played at the Emirates.

Arsenal has found herself in unfamiliar territory lying at a lowly 15th position on the log and would want to do everything to move out of that position and get herself up the log. The season has started terribly for Arsene, Arsenal and the fans. (the fans look like the most hit of the three). Its been one bad news after the other, we lost Diaby to injury before the season even started,Wilshere too and then Vermaleen joined in and finally the killer blow, Sagna out for three long months *sigh*

Arsene Wenger believes that Arsenal's home form can help rebuild confidence. http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/-home-form-can-rebuild-our-confidence- Arsenal needs a lot of confidence right now and the likelihood of Jenkinson starting at right back is not helping my confidence at all. He is a decent back up who needs plenty of time to acclimatize to professional soccer and understudying Sagna would have been the best thing for the young lad but thanks to injury, he is back in the team and would be made to learn on the job.

Sunderland are a very decent team and can pull off a surprise on any ground. Worthy of note is the form of Larson and the threat he can pose to any team (even Arsene and Van Persie acknowledged). Sunderland has suffered a bad start to the season as well, finding themselves 16th on the log, one place below Arsenal. Arsenal would need to be prepared for battle, as Sunderland would came with the aim of at least leaving with a point.

I hope and pray that everyone that makes the team later today would know the importance of the 3points up for grabs and give absolutely everything to get it. Every department would need to be on top form for the whole 90mins and be determined to get the "very important" 3points.

Arsenal Awards (Part 1)

2011-06-27T14:38:00.001+01:00

Thanks to my inactivity on the blog since the season ended, I have not been able to do some things I planned. Having my end of season awards was one of the things I had lined up and it wasn’t something I was going to let off.

Just like everything in Life, last season had its high and low points. The points got very high at a period during the season but nosedived and got very low as we ended the season without a trophy again. In all, there were some standout performers and some crappy performers.

Below are the award categories and winners I came up with. This is solely my idea and I don’t expect everyone to agree with it but I must say that winners were picked on merit and with no sentiments whatsoever. Besides, not all the categories are “good”, I fooled around with some. *evil grin*

BEST GOALKEEPER

Arsenal’s Goalkeeping position came under serious scrutiny and criticism last season and no one would have wanted to be in the shoes of the dudes in that position. Almunia, Fabianski, Szczesny and Lehman all appeared between the sticks for Arsenal. One thing we must all remember is that the Goalkeeping position is probably the toughest positions on the pitch as they are the last line of defense and the kind of defense a team has helps protect the goalkeeper from colossal embarrassment.

In this position, Wojciech Szczesny gets my nod as he performed well above expectations. His performances bellied his age (21) and his confidence is out of this world. You see him scream at his defenders when he is not pleased. He is blessed with superb reflexes and in him Arsenal has a world class potential. In all Szczesny made 24 appearances for Arsenal last season.

Winner: Wojciech Szczesny

BEST DEFENDER

Defense was another trouble position for Arsenal last season, especially central defense where the players in that position failed to come to the party on several occasions during the season and conceded annoyingly simple goals.

Generally Arsenal’s defense would get a rating of 3/10 from me. Djourou and Koscienly performed averagely, Clichy blew hot and cold, Squillaci was a disaster, Gibbs rarely played but one man was rock solid in defense.

Bacary Sagna gets this from me. One of the first names on the team sheet and for me one of the best right backs in the world (yes! You read right….I said World). Sagna was ever present at right back for Arsenal last season racking up 43 appearances in all competitions. He is assured is defense and dangerous when he attacks. He achieved a rare feat of scoring two goals last season and he eventually made the PFA team of the season.

Winner: Bacary Sagna

BEST MIDFIELDER

Arsenal FC is blessed with talented and technically gifted midfielders, some of which would walk straight into most soccer first teams. Together they all performed well above average, the midfield contributed to the goals also with Nasri scoring 15.

Fabregas the midfield maestro was not available most of the season thanks to the World cup and niggling injuries. Nasri was a standout performer before Christmas but failed to show the same form in the new year. Arsenal’s midfield produced two players (Nasri and Wilshere) in midfield of the PFA team of the year(that’s a testament to the fact that Arsenal has a strong midfield).

In this position, Jack Wilshere gets my nod (for obvious reasons). The lad was superb all season, assured on the ball, strong and committed in tackling. His performances bellied his tender age of 19. I won’t talk too much as I already have information about some things that would happen further down this awards.(Are you surprised? “Duuuurh” I’m the one writing it)

Winner: Jack Wilshere

BEST STRIKER

Before the turn of the new year, the bulk of Arsenal’s attacking responsibilities were put on the shoulders of new boy Chamahk. He came good on few occasions as he knocked in a few goals before the intensity and pace of the premier league caught up with the Moroccan and he openly admitted to been fatigued. Theo Walcott was normally deployed to his right side position in the attacking trio and looked to have improved as he was among the goals last season. He also looked to have a telepathic connection with Robin Van Persie as he assisted a considerable chunk of the Dutchman’s goals.

Carlos Vela couldn’t find a starting berth and he hardly ever came off the bench even when he made the team, so the Mexican was loaned out to westbrom to get some first team action. (He still didn’t get much). Niklas Bendtner was in and out of the treatment room and even when fit ,found chances hard to come by no thanks to falling down the pecking order and the in form Van P. Bendtner is one of the players expected to leave Arsenal this summer (Gosh! I can’t wait! He should holla if needs transport fare to his new club)

Even the dumbest person would know that no other striker can lay claim to this award other than the one, the only RVP! Robin Van Persie takes this. That dude is world class and guess what? He is loyal too. (Fabregas and Nasri take note). In the new year, Van Persie scored goals like his life depended on it. He currently holds the record of the most away goals scored consecutively. No player in the top flight performed better than Van P in the new year. He shows commitment to the FC both on and off the pitch and if my opinion counts, I think he should be wearing the captains armband. He was lucky to stay away from the treatment room and he has had a wonderful 2011 banging in 22 goals. One question comes to mind, “where would Arsenal FC have ended if Van Persie was fit throughout the season?”

Winner: Robin Van Persie

REVELATION OF THE SEASON

Wojciech Szczesny had a breakthrough season cementing his place between the sticks for Arsenal. He ended last season as Number 1 and he looks set to hold on to that position for a very long time. Szczesny performed brilliantly, showing great reflexes and command of area. He made himself big when he had to and can easily be pointed to as one to watch out for in the near future.

Ignasi Miquel looked assured in the two games he played in the carling cup and in my opinion is also one to look out for in the future. (if he gets his chance at Arsenal).

The 19 years old whiz kid, Jack Wilshere played his first full season and wowed every soccer lover. On the way to racking up over 40 appearances in all competitions(a season he admitted to expecting to come off the bench and at least get about 20 appearances), Jack performed way beyond everyone’s expectations. At 19, Arsenal has probably the best young midfielder right now.

Jack gets my vote in this category. (Again)

Winner: Jack Wilshere

PLAYER OF THE SEASON

Samir Nasri shone brighter than a halogen bulb before the new year, mesmerizing defenses with his dazzling runs and dribbling skills. I particularly remember his goal Fullham in the premier league where he showed composure at its peak, taking out three defenders comfortably before picking his spot.(I was a bit professional with that sentence….more like he gave them “show me your number” and “ja lo” things). Nasri struggled for form in the new year but still made the PFA team of the year after losing out to Gareth Bale for the PFA player of the year crown.

A superb player that hardly ever gets praise or accolades is the Cameroon power house Alex Song. That African brother practically does the dirty job in the Arsenal midfield and for me is very key to having a balanced Arsenal team. He plunges forward when he has too but he is always quick to recover to still get a foot in when play is against Arsenal. He slots in at central defense with ease and is one of the first names on the team sheet.

Another worthy mention is Theo Walcott. This guy (fine boy) often criticized for most times out running the ball, terrible ball control and a lousy final ball, proved his critics wrong last season by showing a great deal of improvement. He shone so well that even Fabio Capello publicly said he regretted not taking him to the World Cup. My praise for him doesn’t mean he has developed into the player we(Arsenal Fans) want him to be but I must admit that I was impressed with some of his play last season.

Having said that, I would go straight to revealing who I picked as my player of the season. *Drum rolls* and the winner is (I’m sure you know already) ………..JACK WILSHERE!!!

The 19-year-old enjoyed a meteoric rise in 2010/11, starting the campaign on the fringes of the Arsenal side and ending it as a regular for club and country. This dude is world class! His confidence on the ball something out of this world considering his tender age. He plays like he has a ten year experience.

It's hard to pick holes in any area of Wilshere's game. He is a tenacious tackler, a wonderful passer - remember his assist for Nicklas Bendtner against Ipswich? - and can drift past opponents with a drop of the shoulder. What's more, he's got bottle and lots of it. When the chips are down Wilshere lifts his team - whether he's in the Nou Camp or the local park.

His display in the two legs of the champions league match against Barcelona confirmed his world class status. Coming up against midfield maestros Xavi and Iniesta, Wilshere made the midfield his and never looked out of place. Everyone who watched him play on those nights had nothing but praise for the youngster.

Wilshere racked up 49 appearances for Arsenal last season, more than any other Arsenal player. A feat even Jack himself wouldn’t have dreamt of during last year’s pre season. For me, his main success was his consistency. I can’t remember him having a bad day. Even Emmanuel Frimpong admitted “The thing that is different about Jack is that he is very consistent. You hardly ever see him have a bad game.”

Jack shows love for the club and his quick to show his disapproval with either a tackle or wrong call. He has a go at the referee when he feels he or any of his team mates have been treated unfairly, that shows leadership quality(don’t forget, he is only 19).

Wilshere is one of the Arsenal players with twitter accounts and the dude tweets regularly.(even though he never replies my tweets…..I forgive him J). He is never afraid to say how he feels (baring in mind the consequences). This tweeter account brings him closer to the fans as he has currently has 621,259 people following him(wow! Jack abeg follow me back). I love his Bio on twitter “I am a professional footballer for Arsenal FC. I am also a senior England international” I wonder how the 19yr old felt writing that.

Jack Wilshere is the future of England but more importantly the future of Arsenal. I honestly wish Jack would take up Tony Adams title as “Mr. Arsenal” and stay on in Arsenal for the rest of his career. I’m looking forward to watching the dude play next season.

Winner: Jack Wilshere.

I have been writing this post for the past two days and even after all this long story (shalaye), I’m just half way through. It’s been fun writing this and I hope you find it interesting.

Just like Nollywood, “watch out for Part 2” “coming soon” (In Segun Arinzes’ voice). With Awards like Best Signing, Worst Signing, Biggest flop etc. you won’t want to miss it.

If you read this post all the way to this point, thank you J. I admit that its quite long. Please feel free to leave your comments, agree or disagree, comments or suggestions. You can also like the Facebook page (TalkingArsenalFC). See you in part 2.

For daily Updates on Arsenal transfers and general Arsenal news pls visit www.goonerdaily.wordpress.com (Thank me later)

Arsene Wenger: Master of the Delaying Game.

2011-06-22T16:35:00.000+01:00

It’s getting to the end of June and so far the only signing our dear Arsene has made is that of the relatively unknown Carl Jenkinson. The young man is definitely not one ripe enough for first team action, he was brought in to be an understudy to the superb Sagna at right back, a position I always thought needed back up as Eboue has lost that defensive quality he once had in excess. Apart from Eboue, Arsenal does not have a first team back up at right back.

When other teams are going in for targets and closing deals, Arsene leaves us to keep checking sports sites and reading back pages of newspapers to feed on the continuous rumors surrounding Arsenal transfer targets.

Arsene Wenger does this every season and him more than anyone else knows that the fans have had enough of his transfer policy crap. Just when the season ended, we started hearing talk about Wenger wanting to go in for Benzema. Since then Arsenal has been linked with over a dozen players but we are yet to see any real move or signing. Downing, Scot Parker, Defoe, Harzard, Larsson, Cahill, Samba, Dann, Odewingie, Barton, Matuidi, Adel Tarrabt and a host of other pros.

I left out Gervinho from that list because his own deal is “almost” done. I don’t know what is delaying the closing of the deal and the announcement of the signing, the dude wants to come, Arsenal want to buy, Lille wants to sell and a fee has been agreed and personal terms discussed, so what is happening? I won’t be surprised if Arsene is the one delaying this deal because of his tendency to always want to get the best deal.

Wenger of all people should know that he has a lot of businesses to transact this summer and time wasting should not be an option. You cannot even afford to delay in times like this when money super powers Man City, Real Madrid and Man Utd are lurking hoping that you falter and “tadaa” they have the player you courted for months. The moment you identify your target, you should already have an acceptable price in mind (not Arsene’s type of pricing though) and if you put in a bid and the selling club rejects it for not meeting their price, the normal thing should be returning to the discussion table, reach a compromise and take your man (like my Nigerian friends say “No long thing”).

Wenger has also been in the market for central defenders and has been strongly linked with Blackburn’s Samba and Bolton’s Cahill. At a point, there was news that he would likely swoop for both players. I found that hard to believe because knowing Wenger, he won’t throw that much cash out. The point I’m trying to make here is the fact that this news has just been there since the season ended and up till now there’s no concrete move for either of the players. Arsene knows that he needs at least a central defender to pair Thomas Vermaleen next season but he still acts like he has the world at his feet and in his usual manner, he is delaying making a signing. Even Manchester United who don’t need drastic changes at central defense beat Arsenal to the signature of the highly rated Phil Jones.

Wenger is not only delaying in makings signings but he is also delaying in holding contract talks with Samir Nasri. He should know by now if they can reach an agreement or not and not push talks to later in the summer where not many clubs would be willing to spend and Arsenal would risk losing Nasri for free next summer. I’m a big Nasri fan and I would love to see him in an Arsenal shirt next season and years to come but if he is trying to prove difficult it is better he leaves and not cause any problems for the club. (No player is bigger than any club). Nasri has improved greatly but has not shown enough consistency to ask for a pay parity with club captain Cesc Fabregas. Whatever the club management decide, they have to swing into action on time and stop delaying.

I hope this attitude doesn’t cause us another trophyless season next year. Arsene should by now have made at least 3 key signings. As regular readers of this blog would have noticed, I’m a big Wenger fan and I still trust his judgments (not every time….like now) but I would end like always, “In Arsene we trust” but errrrrrm ultimately “In God we trust.”

Back!

2011-06-21T16:14:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone! It’s been ages, how is everyone out there? I want to use this opportunity to apologize to followers of this blog for its inactivity in a while. First it was due to lack of motivation because of the disappointment of ending the season trophy less again but that was a minor one, the major blow for me was losing out on an automatic champions League spot.

It was becoming increasingly obvious as the season drew to a close that Arsenal FC would not have any silverware to call its own(again) but losing out on that automatic UCL spot was a disaster. I just couldn’t bring myself to writing any article. I kept on procrastinating and I got very busy (Work), days turned to weeks .

I had a lot lined up for the end of the season but unfortunately, It’s almost one month since the season ended and nothing. Good news is, I’m back and better.

Watch this space for a lot of exciting news that concern our dear club. Transfer news and a whole lot more stuff you won’t want to miss.

New Home Kit to launch 9th June.

2011-05-12T17:44:00.000+01:00

Arsenal FC will launch a new home kit on the 9th of June to celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the club. Below are pictures of what the kit looks like,take a look to see if it looks like something you want to add to your wardrobe.

If it looks like something you like, place your orders on www.arsenal.com

Kroenke Looks like “it”.

2011-05-10T18:35:00.000+01:00

Stan Kroenke, the man on the verge of the takeover of our beloved Arsenal looks to me like “The Right man” or like the Arsenal board say “A Safe Custodian”. Kroenke already has a proven track record in the United States with the St Louis Rams NFL franchise, Denver Nuggets NBA team, NHL outfit Colorado Avalanche and Major League Soccer's current champions Colorado Rapids.

On Friday, the tycoon moved a step forward by submitting formal documents for his proposed £730million takeover offer, having taken his holding up to 63% by buying stakes from the late Danny Fiszman and Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith. Despite Kroenke Sports Enterprise (KSE) now having a controlling interest in the Gunners' parent company, a complete takeover deal at £11,750 a share is by no means done ahead of the 27th May completion deadline.

Red & White Holdings - backed by Uzbek oil magnate Alisher Usmanov - have indicated they may hold onto their 27% stock, while Arsenal Supporters Trust have urged all minority shareholders not to sell as they believe the club should not be owned by any single individual. The truth is that at some point, I also shared the same sentiments as the Arsenal supporters trust. I just did not imagine my beloved Arsenal owned, controlled and run by one man. (I think it’s the Abramovich factor). where the owner calls the shots and won’t care what any other person feels.

Arsenal has been well run and managed over the years and kudos should be given to those who have been at the helm. So anyone who intends to take Arsenal over must prove to its extremely loyal fans that he has the ambition, drive and proven track record. Stan has done that, he comes across as an easy going man with big ambitions.(his subtle takeover of Danny’s and Lady Nina’s shares after only joining the board in 2007 speaks volumes of his ambitions) and his track record with his sport clubs in America also shows what the man might do with Arsenal.

Stan has been around for quite some time(since 2007) and I’m sure this is enough time to understand the history and tradition of our beloved Arsenal. He also looks to have a very good relationship with Arsene Wenger and that is a good sign because with this we can be sure there would be little or no rift, as we all know that Arsene is a man who likes to take control and make decisions.(especially the footballing aspect of the club).

Friday's offer document consisted of 64 pages and, in the chairman's letter to shareholders, the independent directors stressed their support for Kroenke's vision as Arsenal look to end a six-season trophy drought. I wish him luck with his takeover process and I most especially hope it brings the success we have waited for so far.

Tickets for the Centrepoint Charity Ball go on sale.

2011-05-04T16:48:00.000+01:00

Arsenal Football Club has announced the launch of ticket sales for its Annual Ball on Thursday 19 May 2011 at Emirates Stadium in aid of its Charity of the Season, Centrepoint - the national charity dedicated to giving homeless young people a future - and the Arsenal Charitable Trust.

The Annual Arsenal Ball will be hosted by popular comedian and Arsenal fan Dara O’Briain and attended by the Arsenal manager, first team squad and Arsenal legends. It promises to be a spectacular evening which includes live music from Eliza Doolittle and a menu of fine food and wines.

The evening will see a host of celebrities supporting this event in innovative ways to keep guests entertained and amused throughout the night. Sky Sport’s Geoff Shreeves will host the auction and the night will be rounded off with an after-show party in the Club’s exclusive WM Club.

Arsenal’s Manager, Arsène Wenger said: “The annual ball is the culmination of a wonderful partnership with our Charity of the Season which the players and myself look forward to. It’s a befitting way to bid farewell to Centrepoint and to raise a large amount of money in order to reach - and perhaps even surpass - our season’s target of £500,000 for this wonderful charity.”

A limited number of Player Packages which include a champagne reception with Arsène Wenger and his team, a sumptuous three course dinner and two first team players at your table for dessert are priced at £10,000. Legends Packages are priced at £8,000 and include a VIP reception in the Club’s WM Club in the company of Arsenal Legends followed by dinner in the Club’s newly-refurbished Woolwich Suite.

Over the course of the season, through the ‘Be A Gooner. Be A Giver.’ campaign, the Gunners aim to raise £500,000 for Centrepoint. Funds raised from the partnership will enable the charity to create a state-of-the-art facility where homeless young people can develop essential skills to get back on their feet and stay off the streets permanently.

To find out more about The Annual Arsenal Ball including how to secure your place at this season’s grand finale to the Club’s Charity of the Season, call 020 7423 6818 or email arsenal@centrepoint.org

Culled from Arsenal.com

Wilshere wins PFA Young Player award

2011-04-18T13:57:00.000+01:00

Jack Wilshere has been named as the 2011 PFA Young Player of the Year.

The 19-year-old is enjoying a wonderful season for both club and county and has become one of the brightest talents in the English game.

Jack has established himself as a first-team regular at Emirates Stadium, making 42 appearances and producing performances beyond his years as a virtual ever-present in the Arsenal midfield.

For England, Jack made his senior debut in August last year during a friendly against Hungary at Wembley, becoming the Three Lions' tenth youngest ever player.

Jack becomes the fifth Arsenal player to win this award after Tony Adams (1987), Paul Merson (1989), Nicolas Anelka (1999) and Cesc Fabregas (2008).

Wilshere and fellow nominee Samir Nasri were joined in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year by their Arsenal team-mate, Bacary Sagna.

Team of the Year: Van Der Sar (Man Utd), Sagna (Arsenal), Cole (Chelsea), Vidic (Man Utd), Kompany (Man City), Nani (Man Utd), Nasri (Arsenal), Wilshere (Arsenal), Bale (Tottenham), Tevez (Man City), Berbatov (Man Utd).

Injured quartet may return to face Liverpool

2011-04-14T18:11:00.000+01:00

Arsène Wenger hopes to have four players back for the visit of Liverpool this weekend.

Johan Djourou (shoulder) and Wojciech Szczesny (finger) were last seen departing major cup ties against Manchester United and Barcelona respectively and both face fitness tests ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash.

Alex Song (knee) and Denilson (toe) could return to bolster Arsenal's midfield but Bacary Sagna (knee) is a major doubt while goalkeeper Manuel Almunia (knee) is also doubtful.

"We have no [new injuries] but we have a big doubt on Sagna," Wenger told Arsenal TV Online on Thursday.

"Djourou and Wojciech are question marks. Will they be fit? That all has still to be decided. We have two more days to find out. It could be a possibility that they could be available.

"It's difficult to say [what their chances are]. We have a test today [Thursday], we have a big test to see how they survive the training session. That will be very important.

"Denilson and Song have a chance to be available as well."

Thomas Vermaelen will not be fit to face Liverpool but Wenger confirmed that the Belgian defender is back in full training after missing most of the season with tendon problems.

"I am not reluctant [to use him] but he is not match fit yet," said the manager. "He just joined the team this week so we have to be a bit patient with him."

From: www.arsenal.com

Arsenal Director Danny Fizman is dead. 1945 – 2011.

2011-04-14T17:33:00.000+01:00

Arsenal announced with great sadness the passing away of Danny Fizman a former member of the board directors who died on Wednesday at the age of 66.

Danny, who joined the Board of Directors in 1992, was a much loved and respected figure at the Club and will be deeply missed by his many friends and colleagues at Arsenal.

During his time as an Arsenal Director, Danny, a hugely successful businessman whose love of Arsenal was obvious to all, was a leading influence at the Club. He played an integral role in the Club’s move from Highbury to our new stadium, working tirelessly for many years leading the team which created one of the finest sporting arenas in the world.

I am a staunch follower of what goes on at Arsenal FC, on and off the pitch and I know what Danny did for the football club. I (of course) never met him but from my little research I have done on Arsenal FC, I know what Danny meant to the club.

Just early this week it was reported that he had sold his shares of 16.1% to Stan Kroenke, who has now acquired enough shares to trigger a move to bid for the remaining shares in a view to taking over the club.

If Danny was Nigerian people would have said he knew he was going to die, that’s why he agreed to sell his shares. The man was ill and didn’t know nothing.

Danny Fizman was an integral part of Arsenal FC until his death. He will be dearly missed. We (the fans) appreciate everything he did for the club and we pray that God grants his family the fortitude to bear the loss.

Danny, Arsenal Loves and will never forget you. Rest In Peace.

Stan Kroenke has confirmed he has increased his stake in Arsenal to 62.89% as he closes in on a takeover of the club.

2011-04-11T13:38:00.000+01:00

Today KSE, UK, INC. (“KSE”) has announced an Offer for Arsenal Holdings PLC.

As part of the Offer KSE, which is a company owned by existing Arsenal Director Stan Kroenke, has committed to continue to operate the Club in line with our existing self-sustaining business model.

Mr Kroenke has a proven track record of successful long-term investment in sport and has confirmed that he has asked the existing Board to remain in place. This includes Mr Peter Hill-Wood as Chairman. Mr Kroenke is also fully supportive of Manager Arsène Wenger whom he has stated is a wonderful manager.

KSE has also stated that the offer will not be funded by debt finance secured against the Club.

The Independent Directors of Arsenal comprising of Mr Hill-Wood, Ivan Gazidis, Ken Friar, Sir Chips Keswick and Lord Harris of Peckham have considered these confirmations as well as the Offer price and, having received advice from an independent adviser, Rothschild, are recommending that shareholders accept the Offer.

The American, who already owned 29.9% of the club, has increased his shareholding after agreeing deals to buy shares owned by Danny Fiszman and Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith.

The deal sees Kroenke acquire the 16.1% owned by Fiszman and Lady Bracewell-Smith's 15.9% stake to take his holding to 62.89%.

As a result of passing the 62% threshold under stock market rules, a takeover bid would be triggered and he has agreed terms for the purchase of the remaining stock which values the club at £731million.

Terms have also been agreed for Kroenke Sports Enterprises to buy up the remaining share capital at a cost of £11,750 a share.

Kroenke said in a statement to the Stock Exchange: "We are excited about the opportunity to increase our involvement with and commitment to Arsenal.

"Arsenal is a fantastic club with a special history and tradition and a wonderful manager in Arsene Wenger.

"We intend to build on this rich heritage and take the club to new success. I am delighted that Peter Hill-Wood has agreed to support us by continuing as chairman.

Kroenke first took a stake in Arsenal in 2007 when he purchased the 9.9 per cent which was owned by Granada.

Kroenke has major interests in sporting teams throughout America as his company also owns the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer and the NFL's St. Louis Rams.

If Kroenke takes charge of Arsenal, they would be the fifth Premier League club to become American-owned, along with Manchester United, Aston Villa, Sunderland and Liverpool.

Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger had this to say:

"I have worked with Stan Kroenke at board meetings over the past couple of years and I believe he has the best interests of Arsenal at heart," said Wenger

"He understands the club's heritage and traditions and our ambition to run the club in a way which protects our long-term future."

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood, who initially said the Gunners did not want said:

Kroenke's "sort" involved at the club when KSE bought their initial stake four years ago, said: "The board of directors and I consider it a key responsibility to protect the ethos and spirit of the club.

"Mr Kroenke, although relatively new to Arsenal, has shown himself to be a man who values and respects the history and traditions of this very special club that we cherish. We are confident that he will be a safe custodian of its future.

Nasri and Wilshere up for PFA awards.

2011-04-09T21:48:00.000+01:00

Samir Nasri has been nominated for the 2011 PFA Player of the Year award.

The French midfielder has been in tremendous form for Arsène Wenger’s side this season, scoring 14 goals in 33 starts.

Samir has been the back bone of Arsenal this season in the absence of Cesc Fabregas thanks to injury. Nasri has been on top of his game since this campaign began and he has maintained a very good Level of form till now. He has been one of the best players in an Arsenal shirt this season.

Samir began the campaign superbly and his two penalties during extra time in the Carling Cup against Tottenham won Arsenal the tie. He was named the PFA Fans' Player of the Month for October after three goals in five appearances and ended the year with two wonderful solo efforts against Fulham.

Samir was again named the PFA Fans' Player of the Month for January and set up Andrey Arshavin’s 83rd-minute winner against Barcelona on an historic night at Emirates in February.

PFA Chief Executive Gordon Taylor said: "He [Nasri] has scored some wonderful, individual goals and his skill and ability to create openings almost from nothing make him quite special. As Arsène Wenger says, there is even more to come from him.

"He seems to have relished the extra responsibility placed upon him when Cesc Fabregas has not been fit. He’s a similar player to Cesc, and revels in a central role where he has become Arsenal’s main man.”

Nasri, along with team-mate Jack Wilshere, is also nominated for the Young Player of the Year award.

Jack Wilshere has been a revelation this season. For me, one of the best midfielders in the premier league this season and maybe I’m a bit biased here but I think Wilshere is the best young player in the world right now.

Jacks’ play on the field bellies his age, for heaven’s sake that dude is just 19. He plays like a midfielder with years of experience. His confidence is 100%! Never afraid to go in for the tackle and stands up to players twice his age when he feels he or anyone of his team mates have been badly tackled. That for me is the character of a leader.

Nasri and Wilshere both deserve this nominations and I wish them all the best. It would be great to pick these awards after winning the EPL. *Big grin*

PFA Player of the Year

Charlie Adam (Blackpool) 

Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur)

Samir Nasri (Arsenal)

Scott Parker (West Ham United) 

Carlos Tevez (Manchester City)

Rafael van der Vaart (Tottenham Hotspur) 

Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United)

PFA Young Player of the Year

Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur) 

Seamus Coleman (Everton)

Joe Hart (Manchester City) 

Javier Hernandez (Manchester United)

Nani (Manchester United) 

Samir Nasri (Arsenal)

Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)

Arsenal Reserves 4 - Sunderland Reserves 2

2011-04-05T22:36:00.000+01:00

Arsenal Reserves twice surrendered the lead before late strikes from Joshua Rees and Luke Freeman eventually gave the second string a 4-2 victory over Sunderland on Tuesday.

Goals early in either half from Roarie Deacon and Jeremie Aliadiere, making his second successive start, had given Arsenal the initiative on two occasions before the visitors hit back almost immediately.

But two emphatic finishes, one from the right foot of Rees and another from the left of Freeman, in the final ten minutes ensured the Gunners kept their slim title chances alive and ended their home campaign in success.

Jens Lehmann played another 90 minutes and this evening also saw the welcome return of Emmanuel Frimpong, who featured heavily in Arsène Wenger’s pre-season plans before injuring knee ligaments in August.

The powerful midfielder got 22 minutes under his belt to put the finishing touches on a rewarding night for Neil Banfield’s boys.

A sizeable crowd, on a mild summer’s evening at Barnet, were treated to a pulsating start with Arsenal nearly going ahead within a minute.

Barely 30 seconds were on the clock when Freeman freed Aliadiere who side-footed just wide with the goal at his mercy.

But it wasn’t long before the supporting Gooners had something to cheer about when Deacon broke the deadlock.

After just four minutes Rhys Murphy fed Deacon inside the area who, after side-stepping a defender and shifting the ball onto his left foot, casually rolled the ball past Ben Wilson from 12 yards. He made it look easy.

Arsenal had the early advantage but it would last only two minutes.

Adam Mitchell slipped in Matthew Fletcher who drilled past a helpless Lehmann and into the bottom-right corner. All square then, and it seemed we had a real game on our hands.

But that frenetic opening preceded something of a lull.

A linesman’s flag, that went up before going down again, caused confusion inside the Arsenal back line and Lehmann was forced into his first save by diverting Ryan Noble’s effort behind.

Arsenal responded with a chance of their own, goalkeeper Wilson atoning for a mistake to keep out Freeman’s lob with a strong left hand.

A slip in the Arsenal defence presented a chance for Lynch, whose deflected effort fizzed just past the right post.

Both sides had chances just before the break but it remained all-square, and very much up for grabs, at the interval.

If the first half started at a frenetic pace, the opening of the second period was just as chaotic.

Aliadiere, almost exactly as he did earlier, went close directly from kick off. Then Freeman’s powerful drive was kept out by Wilson before a combination of Ignasi Miquel and Daniel Boateng somehow cleared off the line after a fine stop from Lehmann.

Boateng would make another telling contribution minutes later, this time at the other end of the pitch to put the ball on a plate for Aliadiere to give Arsenal the lead for a second time.

The central defender made a marauding run from the back before slipping a ball through to the French striker, who set himself before effortlessly slotting into the far-left corner via the post. A classy finish that, unfortunately, we didn’t see nearly enough of during his first spell with the Club.

Again, as was the case in the first half, Arsenal couldn’t hold onto their lead. This time Noble headed home from close range to level things up for a second time in the contest.

Conor Henderson then missed a gilt-edged opportunity to swing the tide back in the red side’s favour when he blazed over from Freeman’s clever backheel.

Frimpong was introduced in the 68th minute and the sight of the Ghanaian back in an Arsenal shirt was a welcome one after his injury troubles.

With barely time to feel his way back into the side, Freeman’s cut-back would see Frimpong go agonisingly close to marking his return with a goal.

But it would be another substitute who made a telling contribution.

Talented right-sided midfielder Rees lashed a shot into the far corner and past a motionless Wilson to put Arsenal ahead for, if you’re keeping up, a third time on the night.

Manager Banfield could have been forgiven for not celebrating after what had gone before but even he could afford a smile when Freeman put the game out of sight with what is becoming a trademark stunning goal.

First time, from the edge of the area with his trusty left foot, the striker thundered into the roof of the net to put the game out of sight.

From: www.arsenal.com

Is this the end of the road?

2011-04-04T18:36:00.000+01:00

Once again Arsenal has disappointed us its loyal fans. I watched the match against Blackburn with so much believe in my heart that “we” would get something out of the match. Minutes turned to 1 hour and at the end of the of 1 hour 30 minutes, I was close to tears, my beloved Arsenal could not grind out one goal….just one! *SIGH*

The problem for me was not even the result but the lack of desire the players on the pitch showed. They played like players who had nothing at stake, they played as if they already knew the result of the match. Winners don’t play the way Arsenal played on Saturday. Just a few hours earlier on Saturday, Manchester United proved and showed that they have the champions mentality coming back from two goals down to defeat the unlucky West Ham.

I was so disappointed in what I saw on Saturday that I couldn’t bring myself to writing an article for this blog. The good thing is that I’m not the only one who saw the lack of desire and hunger the team showed on Saturday but Mr Wenger himself admitted “we were just one-paced and that is not our game. We had nothing in the tank to produce a change of pace. We looked very predictable and usually we are not.”

I could only pick out Jack Wilshere, Van Persie & Nasri as the players who showed a little bit of desire but not enough to raise the team. Arshavin is beginning to look like the player we all know but he still needs to work on his confidence level. Fabregas came on and didn’t do much, Wilshere missed a sitter and generally the team just could not get themselves together.

For dedicated followers of this blog, you would have noticed that I have screamed the word SHOOT!!! Several times. I don’t know if there is a policy at Arsenal not to shoot the ball because that is the only reason anyone can give me for their refusal to shoot when they get around the box of the opponent. It hurts me to see so much play around the opponents box but no one wants to take the responsibility of shooting. Arshavin who would normally shoot is just finding form and Rosicky who attempts to shoot too is seriously out of form and is way down the pecking order.

The title seems to be out of “our” hands right now and we now have to watch and hope that Manchester United drop points. We really need this trophy. My friend asked me after the match on Saturday “Is this the end of the road?” and been an optimist and a loyal Arsenal fan, I replied NO! We can still do it. Arsenal just have to pick themselves up, encourage one another and fight together. I remain a Gunner till I drop and haters can say what they like.

Blackburn! A must win?

2011-04-02T00:21:00.000+01:00

Hey people! How’s everyone doing? Last week was a long and boring week for me and I’m sure for a lot of you guys too, as there was no match in the EPL. Yes, there were international matches but they don’t bring the excitement the EPL gives. Congratulations to the countries that won their matches and better luck next time for those that lost.

As it is with most internationals, club supporters are always on the lookout for “their players” . we watch to see their performances and ultimately hope they don’t pick up injuries. In fact there are times I have hoped and prayed that some certain players don’t get used, I know its selfish but hey that’s why I’m a “Fan”. For those who don’t know, the word fan was carved out of “Fanatic” (check the meaning of that yourself).

There were scares here and there, the worst been the Van Persie injury scare. He is back at Arsenal and thank God he has been passed fit to be in the squad to face Blackburn tomorrow evening. Van Persie is Arsenal’s best striker and we cannot afford to lose him to injury at this crucial stage of the league.

Arsenal take on Blackburn at the emirates on Saturday evening. Arsenal cannot afford anymore slip ups if they want to be crowned champions come may. Just so you know, if Arsenal win their remaining 9 games, they would become champions of the EPL. It sounds very easy but trust me, it isn’t. it’s even worse because of the inconsistency Arsenal display often.(don’t get me wrong, they have been quite consistent this season).

Arsenal take on a Blackburn in a match Arsenal cannot afford to lose not caring about what happens in the West ham – Man Utd match which would have been played earlier. Arsenal must go into this match with desire, passion and hunger. They must play like kids who have had their lollipop taken away from them. Drive forward with tenacity, Go in for every ball and tackle(in the air and on the ground) and above all SHOOT!

Arsenal does not have the luxury of beautiful football anymore from now till the end of the season. They need to grind out results as points would be very hard to come by. Every time they have the opponents goal post in sight, someone just has to shout SHOOT! They get to the opponents box most times in a match, create chances but never take them because they want to do it stylishly. All that must stop!

You can rely more on Arsenal going forward that defending, not even with that calamitous defensive pairing of Koscienly and Squillaci. I read some bad news earlier today, Almunia starts in goal. I was close to tears reading that story. Lets trust Arsene because he sees them in training and he must have his reasons for retaining Manuel in goal.

Good news is we have Fabregas, Walcott, Song and Diaby back from injury and for me, no matter how Arsene has tried to play it down, We have really missed Fab, Song and Walcott. Arsenal is a better team with that trio in it.

We must also note that Blackburn are in a relegation battle and would fight tooth and nail to at least get a point from this match. Blackburn are known to be strugglers and with a player like Samba who has made more defensive blocks than any other player in the EPL this season, you can be sure they would put up a strong fight.

Below are some stats

Last 6 results Arsenal

West Brom - Arsenal 2 - 2

Man Utd - Arsenal 2 - 0

Barcelona - Arsenal 3 - 1

Arsenal - Sunderland 0 - 0

Arsenal - Leyton Orient 5 - 0

Arsenal - Birmingham 1 - 2

Last 6 results Blackburn Rovers

2 - 2 Blackburn - Blackpool

3 - 2 Fulham - Blackburn

4 - 1 Aston Villa - Blackburn

0 - 0 Blackburn - Newcastle

4 - 3 Wigan - Blackburn

0 - 1 Blackburn - Tottenham

· Arsenal have had 277 shots on target this season - more than any other Premier League team.

Christopher Samba has made 33 defensive blocks this season - more than any other Premier League player.

Do I still need to answer the question? Well for those whose answer might be yes, I say YES! Arsenal FC must win this match and every match till the end of the season.

Wilshere shortlisted for PFA March award

2011-03-30T18:34:00.000+01:00

Jack Wilshere has been shortlisted for the PFA Fans' Player of the Month for March.

PFA Fans' Player of the Month shortlist:

Damien Duff (Fulham)
David Luiz (Chelsea)
Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool)
Frank Lampard (Chelsea)
Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)
Javier Hernandez (Manchester United)
Luis Suarez (Liverpool)
Micah Richards (Man City)
Scott Parker (West Ham)
Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

Watch out for an article on this teenage wonder.

Fourteen Arsenal Players called up for International Duty.

2011-03-22T18:17:00.000+01:00

Fourteen Arsenal players have been called up by their different countries for the forthcoming international fixtures.

Bacary Sagna, Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy have all been called up to Laurent Blanc’s France squad. Les Bleus travel to Luxembourg for a Euro 2012 Group D qualifier on Friday before hosting Croatia in a friendly in Paris on Tuesday.

Aaron Ramsey has been called up to the Wales squad for games against England and Scotland in Cardiff. The Arsenal midfielder has not featured for his country since suffering a double leg break in February 2010 but will join up with Gary Speed’s squad ahead of their Euro 2012 Group G qualifier against England at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday. Wales then host Scotland in the Nations Cup on Wednesday.

Robin van Persie has been called up by coach Bert van Marwijk for Holland’s upcoming Euro 2012 Group E double-header against Hungary. The World Cup finalists travel to Budapest on Friday before hosting the Hungarians in Amsterdam on Tuesday.

Tomas Rosicky has been called up to the Czech Republic squad for two Euro 2012 Group I qualifiers. The Czechs travel to Granada to face Spain on Friday before hosting Liechtenstein in Ceske Budejovice on Tuesday.

Nicklas Bendtner has been called up to the Denmark squad for the upcoming international period. Morten Olsen’s team travel to Oslo for a Euro 2012 Group H qualifier on Saturday and then go to Trnava for a friendly on Tuesday.

Andrey Arshavin has been called up to the Russia squad for Saturday’s Euro 2012 Group B qualifier against Armenia in Yerevan. Arshavin and Russia then travel to Doha for a friendly against Qatar on Tuesday.

Jack Wilshere has been called up to Fabio Capello’s England squad for internationals against Wales and Ghana. England travel to Cardiff for a Euro 2012 Group G qualifier on Saturday before hosting Ghana in a friendly at Wembley on Tuesday.

Kieran Gibbs and Henri Lansbury have been called up to the England Under-21 squad for friendlies against Denmark and Iceland. Stuart Pearce’s side travel to Viborg on Thursday before hosting Iceland at Deepdale, Preston on Monday.

Marouane Chamakh has been called up to the Morocco squad for the upcoming international period. Eric Gerets’ squad travel to Annaba for an African Cup of Nations qualifier on Sunday before hosting Botswana in a friendly on Wednesday.

Emmanuel Eboue has been called up to the Ivory Coast squad for Saturday’s African Cup of Nations qualifier against Benin in Accra.

Carlos Vela has been called up to the Mexico squad for friendlies against Paraguay and Venezuela in America. Mexico face Paraguay in Oakland on Saturday before meeting Venezuela in San Diego on Tuesday.

The first thing that readily comes to mind when you hear that a team produces fourteen internationals is Quality! Arsenal football club has plenty of it around the pitch. Attack, Midfield, Defense (scratching my head). The problem is Arsenal have been unable to turn the quality into winning trophies in the last six years. Previous seasons, the excuse every Arsenal fan and even Arsene Wenger gave was “It’s still a young team and we are growing”.

This season Arsenal have come of age and it showed in their early chase for four titles until they came crashing, losing three competitions in three weeks. They are still in the mix for the EPL but even with all the quality, one cannot trust Arsenal to lift the trophy come may, thanks to a calamitous defensive pairing of Koscienly and Squillaci. Offensively Arsenal is one of the best teams in the EPL but defensively, you cannot say same.(I’m not talking about Arsenals goalkeeping woes today, because that would take a whole day to write)

Everytime Arsenal players go away on international duty, I (like many other Arsenal fans) hope they do well for their countries and Ultimately come back to the club without injury. (International duties have cost us in the past – Van Persie, Vermaleen, Walcott). So in that vein, I wish these fourteen players all the best on their match days and my fingers are crossed.

Can Arsenal Do it?

2011-03-21T11:42:00.000+01:00

It’s a hot, sunny Saturday afternoon and I’m waiting patiently(like most Saturdays) for the Arsenal team list and subsequently the Kick off of the match against West Brom. The first thing that catches my eye on seeing the list is the inclusion of Aaron Ramsey in the starting lineup and I’m excited that he is back and finally gets his chance in the first team. Next I see Denilson and I’m saddened, this guy is just not Arsenal standard. He is one player I have seen in a long time who hasn’t matured under the tutelage of the master nurturer (Wenger) and to think that he is Brazilian. Another name that catches my eye and ultimately annoys me is that of error prone, goal leaking and inconsistent Squillaci.

I’m seated waiting for the players to emerge from the tunnel and in a few minutes they are out. Kick off! Play starts and Arsenal cant seem to find their rhythm early on but who cares, its still under 5mins and there’s plenty of time to go. Soon the ball is in the Arsenal half and it’s a throwing to West brom and Sagna is trying to call out at one of his players and loses concentration for a second and the ball is thrown over his head and luckily Koscienly is there to help out but in the process gives away a needless corner. West brom set out to take the corner (I’m on the edge of my sit because I know how bad Arsenal are at defending corners and aerial balls). Corner is taken and **vroom** the ball is in the back of the net. Terrible defending from the Arsenal players. Where the heck were Squillaci nd Koscienly? Shouldn’t they be in the mix of things when a corner is floated in?(at least we see the likes of Vidic and Terry do it week in week out).

I stay glued to the TV hoping that things would change but Arsenal just couldn’t carve out any clear cut chance. At this point I’m switching stations monitoring the Man Utd/Bolton match(it’s still 0-0). I’m remaining loyal but Arsenal has refused to improve. Denilson is misplacing almost every pass, Squillaci is all over the place doing nothing, Ramsey doesn’t seem to fit just yet. With nothing happening for the Arsenal, I get up and go about doing other stuff (get my clothes ironed in preparation for the coming week) I’m ironing and my sister screams “oh no! its another goal” I immediately know it is for West Brom and at this point I am not concerned about the match anymore.

The game is on and I continue with my ironing. During my unconcerned moments Arsenal through Arshavin pull one back and somehow I’m drawn back to the match. Arsenal push for another and scrappily get it through Van Persie. At this point my belief is back and I’m hoping Arsenal can do it. The players are pushing for a third goal but no luck…… Final whistle!

I cant seem to get it, what could Arsene Wenger be telling the boys in training and in the locker room? Don’t they realize that they only have the EPL left to chase for a silverware? One cannot see urgency, desire and passion. They should be playing like wounded lions and not like a team that is relaxed and confident in itself. Arsenal has to let go of its disappointments in the other competitions and focus on the EPL.

Arsenal has the advantage as they are no longer in any other competition, this gives them extra rest days as against their main rivals (Man Utd) who are still in the FA Cup and UCL. I expect the Arsenal players to rally round and talk to themselves, they NEED to pick up a silverware this season. If Arsenal will pick up the EPL this season, they would have to change their mentality and style of play for the remaining games of the season. Style of play is simple SHOOT ON SIGHT!!! They need to put aside beautiful football and trying to work their way into the net, SHOOT! SHOOT! SHOOT! Should be what they should live by till the end of the season. We the fans need to see desire, hunger and passion in their play. The million dollar question is “Can Arsenal do it”?

Is Jens Lehman the right man?

2011-03-21T09:55:00.000+01:00

Arsenal has had goalkeeping issues since the beginning of this season.(No! Last season). Truth is Arsenal has struggled in the Goalkeeping position since the controversial Jens Lehman left the club a few years back. Almunia stepped up and became Arsenal’s NO.1 goalkepper and has been in goal since.

Almunia for me is one of the most inconsistent goalkeepers in the EPL. He blows hot and cold and cant seem to maintain a standard. He is not fit to guard the goal of a top European side like Arsenal, he is good enough for West Brom,Wigan,West Ham (you know what I mean). If you put Almunia side by side with the likes of Cech, Van der sa, Riena and even “little” Joe Hart, you would understand what I mean exactly.

At the beginning of the season, it was reported that Arsene Wenger was searching for a new goal Keeper and several names came up like Hugo Lloris, Shay Given and very strongly Mark Schwarzer. Wenger in his usual manner didn’t come out to openly admitting the Keeper chase and in the end (as usual again) came up with nothing until the transfer window closed. Mark Schwarzer even stupidly (in my opinion) handed in a transfer request at Fullham (I would explain). Fullham and Arsenal were negotiating for a long time and Arsene been who he is was offering a sum Fullham thought was paltry for their No.1 and one of the most experienced Handlers in the EPL. Mark should have known Fullham wouldn’t release him cheap and been in England for while, he should also know that Arsene hardly ever increases his initial bid. So handing in a transfer request was a dumb move. He should have just sat back and watched how things unfolded. I also don’t blame him, when a club like Arsenal comes calling it’s hard to say no. (I have digressed I know).

So back to the main issue. Almunia started the season as No.1 to the disappointment of Arsenal fans worldwide and continued in his characteristic inconsistent manner. Fans cried and cried and **tada** injury struck. He was forced to the sidelines thanks to that injury and Fabianski took over. Fabianski grew better match after match and just when we thought he was going to be there for a while injury struck . Szezesny took over and in a long time Arsenal fans had confidence in the goalkeeping department. He showed great potential and he even made the No.1 spot his after the return of Almunia but AGAIN Injury struck!

With Fabianski out for the rest of the season, Szezesny out for a minimum of six weeks, Vito Mannone out on loan at Hull city(also injured), Arsenal was left with Almunia as the only senior Keeper the other the 18yrs old James Shea. Because of this Goalkeeping crisis Arsene had to apply to the FA for an emergency loan. Just when everyone was wondering where Wenger would get his man, news filtered that Arsenal was in talks with former Gunner Jens Lehman. Lehman? WTF? Yes that was my response. The 41yr old German had hung up boots already and one would wonder if Arsene or his goalkeeping coaches didn’t know any active Keeper they could have gone in for.

Critically looking at it again, Lehman has the mentality,drive and experience Arsenal needs at this stage of the season and if the performances of Van der sa are anything to go by then age is definitely not a barrier. For back up, Lehman doesn’t look like a bad move but we have to wait and see. Like Arsenal Fans like to say “In Arsene we trust” but from me its “In God I trust”.

Welcome!!!

2011-03-18T11:48:00.000+01:00

This is talking ArsenalFC! It is exactly what it is, I’m going to be talking about Arsenal football club. As you know, there is a lot and there always would be a lot to talk about when it concerns Arsenal FC. Apart from been one of the top sides in Europe(yes it is),Arsenal is a club that has been on the lips of everyone(Haters and Supporters) because of her inability to win any major trophy since 2005.(btw I say major because Arsenal wins the Emirates Cup annually without any problems whatsoever *rme*). All the talk never gets to me (ok ok, I know so many people who would kill me when they see that line because most times ………it does *covers face*) but why won’t and shouldn’t it get to me? I’m a diehard Arsenal supporter.

I love Arsenal with my whole being. I love everything about Arsenal, the players (not all), Manager, coaches, jersey, stadium…..everything! I have supported Arsenal FC for about eight years now and not in any of those years have I denounced Arsenal (In defeat or Lack of trophies). I always tell anyone who cares to listen that I am the most Loyal Arsenal Supporter. When I’m hungry and I watch Arsenal play (and win),I get full automatically. When I’m sad and Arsenal wins a match(whether I watch or I hear),I become happy even if it is for a moment. I feel incomplete if I don’t hear any Arsenal news a day. I’m a regular caller and a registered member of http://www.arsenal.com/ I am passionate about this club and my passion gave birth to this blog.

I intend to through this blog, look at and talk about everything that concerns Arsenal FC. Our special Manager, talented bunch of players, Reserve team, Academy, Back room staff, matches, tactics……everything! I would as objectively as I can do this. When I have to lambast the team, trust me to do that. I just hope to release some of the excess Arsenal energy in me through this blog.

Whatever you read here are my personal views and doesn’t necessarily represent the views of any other Arsenal FC supporter. Keep checking for objective analysis of happenings at Arsenal FC.

Tell a friend to tell a friend to tell an Arsenal Fan that talkingArsenalFC has kicked off and they won’t want to miss out on the excitement this blog would bring.

CONTENTS COMING SOON!

2011-03-16T17:19:00.000+01:00