A rather fragrant performance in Cologne

 

 

Arsenal took on Cologne on Saturday as a pre-cursor to a 4 day training boot-camp in Bonn.

 

There are plenty of great match reports online, but I’ll give a brief summary. Arsenal started the first half with the team below;

 

		Sczcesny
Jenkinson	Vermaelen		Koscielny	Gibbs
	Ramsey	Song	Wilshire
Walcott				Gervinho
		Chamakh

 

As a debut for Gervinho it couldn’t have worked out much better. In a 28 minute start in red and white he hit two goals and picked up a slight knock.

His first, a lofted volley over the rapidly approaching keeper was well hit, paced to perfection and a great finish to a fantastic through ball from young Jack. It reminded me a bit of the Ljungberg/Bergkamp combination. If Jack and the G-man can even scratch the surface of that partnership then I will be a very happy man.

Jenkinson, who has had an impressive start to his Arsenal career once again did well and even got on the score-sheet himself, much to Sczcesny’s chagrin. He attempted to hit a volley on the run to clear a ball dropping over his shoulder, he unfortunately mis-kicked it somewhat and it went looping into the Arsenal net. The poor lad looked gutted and it marred another solid, promising game. I look forward to seeing more of him throughout the year.

Miyaici replaced Gervinho and had another good game. I see obvious comparisons with Overmars, though he has more tricks than the diminutive Dutchman. I like Miyaici, I think his talent is there for all to see and with the appropriate tutelage from Arsene I can see him becoming a real star in the modern game.

Walcott has started pre-season in good form, I think he’s a mixed bag out on the right wing, you know he’s got the pace to beat his marker, but not necessarily the tricks or the guile. He provided a nice assist for Gervinho and did some decent running off the ball and he ran through well to shoot over the bar. There is always a place for Walcott in the Arsenal squad, his pace is very dangerous, but I can’t see him ever being effective over 90 minutes out on the wing. I would like it if we could switch to two up front and see Theo up there with RvP.

Overall a good run out and a good result. I am delighted Gervinho has opened his account, I hope it doesn’t take too long to make his mark in the Prem, but it’s a difficult league played at a much faster pace than he is used to. We will have to be patient.

*** Apologies from WG ***

Sorry I haven’t been about so much guys and gals. Life, work and everything has been a bit mental and my free time has been spent resting in between busy, physically and mentally exhausting days.

Needless to say I’m glad to be back in the saddle.

Many thanks to you my readers for your patience and continued perseverance.

WG

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Thats where the real party is at.

.. and stuff.

Cheers

WG

Mad Jens rumour accelerates and Rambo gets his kit on

As mentioned last week Mad Jens is indeed in London and after my exclusive punt of a guess about it the rumours are accelerating towards him being a shoo-in for the job.

I'd like to see him back to be honest. I think his experience and presence would be a great benefit. He's been there and done it and we'll need his experience.

It was great to see Rambo back on the pitch on saturday. He got a good twenty mins and looked pretty sharp. His passing vision hasn't dulled and he looks ready for the battle.

Personally, I think he's a nice lad and its crap seeing bad things happen to good people.

WG.

Sack Wenger? Have you been eating rotten fruit?

Good lord, where do all these doom-mongering, spoilt fans come from?

We do not have a god given right to win every game. We have to compete, which we do. We are second in the league with a game in hand in front of Chelski and Man Citeh with all their millions.

Its not enough to spend money, you have to have a team.

If we win the league all of these 'fans' will be crowing to their mates about how Wenger is a genius winning the league on a shoestring.

Sacking Wenger won't achieve anything except strip our team of all the players who are here because of him and his methods I.e. Walcott, Nasri, Fabregas. They won't want to play for a clogger manager.

We all want instant success, but like instant coffee, its not as good as the real thing.

WG

Am I relieved or disappointed?

I said yesterday that I wasn't bothered about the FA cup. I know its a trophy but if its that or the league its a no brainer.

It was a game we needed to win in terms of confidence and proving our credentials for the title.

But it is fixtures that if we didn't have to play them would provide our players with extra recovery time and that is indispensible in the run-in.

Frankly, I'm pleased we're out. I wanted to beat the scummy Manc's but for now I'll take solace in the fact that they will have to play more games than us!

My phone sang with texts from Manc's crowing at the 2:0 victory. Chants of 'No trophy, no league' echoed off my phone.

My defence, 'text me again in may when we're taking the league trophy for a trip round North London'.

Yesterday proved for me that Diaby cannot play central midfield for us and how much we really miss Song. We need cover for him so badly its crazy. Denilson did ok, but overall I'm disappointed with the lack of quality chances created against a poor Man Utd side.

Roll on tomorrow when I can start thinking about the next game.

*** Blog news *** www.wigangooner.co.uk is live and a new look website is in development. Exciting times!!

WG

Mad Jens to make a return?

Firstly this isn't based on any truth. Arsene has said he already has a goalkeeper in mind to fill the emergency stand-in role. Jens is available as he is currently retired and has been coaching for us recently.

His mentality and desire to win would be crucial to have around the dressing room and training ground and I wouldn't mind betting Arsene is wondering whether he can call him in?

Fingers crossed! I think he'd be a great addition to have back for the rest of the season. He might be a bit mad, but he's not a dancer.

WG.

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Will Rambo get a shot?

With the well-publicised re-occurance of Cesc's hammy injury an opportunity presents itself within the Arsenal midifeld. Rambo has said in the media that he is rearing to get back into the first team.

Saturday is an ideal opportunity in the absense of Cesc for him to get back. Prior to his injury he was deputising for Cesc and doing a fantastic job. His penetrative runs and movement is only one weapon in his armoury, his distribution another.

I really rate him, I think he's got great awareness and is a good competitor with a desire to match Jacks. We need him. I think we need him tomorrow. ManYoo's midfield will be combative and his skills are in demand. Lets not upset him by not giving him a start. He's a player we need to keep happy.

WG.

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Fuelling the fires of desire

No, not a cheesily written short story from Mills and Boon and that ilk, its sounding like the boys are up for it!

Defeats like Barcelona can go two ways; you can be up, more determined than ever and use that disappointment to fight harder than ever before. Or, you can shrink like a violet and let it suffocate you.

In the past, our young team certainly suffered from the latter, but from the noises we've been hearing its now the former that is indicative of the mood at London Colney today.

Johan Djourou has spoken of the shame of being Swiss following the performance of the Swiss referee and of his desire to get back to winning ways this weekend. Similar comments from Jack and Cesc seem to indicate an upbeat, determined squad.

We will face a determined ManYoo this weekend with lots to prove after their recent indifferent form and they will not want to lose to us.

Selfishly, I'd rather lose and let the boys concentrate fully on the league and leave the distraction of the FA Cup til next year.

However, since the opportunity presents itself we should take this olive branch for what it is. A chance to put down the marker against ManYoo and say 'we're better than you, we know it and we're gonna prove it'.

Ultimately, I think we have enough in the tank to do this. We'll just have to see what personnel Arsene picks.

WG

No shame, but a whole lot of injustice

The day feels colder today than it did yesterday. I was bouncing yesterday, I could feel a good result coming though I kept my optimism largely to myself..I resisted a predo.

I couldn't predict that ridiculous decision to send of RvP. Noone could. I did fear for him after his needless yellow card earlier in the game, but I didn't think he'd get sent off for that. In my mind I could see him clattering the keeper or something but never for time wasting.

Replays since have proven that the opposition defender also didn't hear the whistle and contiued to try and close the angle on RvP.

That decision aside, I was a bit frustrated with some of our own rushed posession which far too swiftly returned the ball to Barca and put the pressure back on us. Its fair to say however, my optimism was still reasonably resolute and when the equaliser went in off a penetrative corner aimed at the head of Diaby which he incidentally mistimed but Busquets headed it perfectly - Good lad he is.

At 1-1 it was looking like it could go either way until that daft decision.

For now though. In the interests of sanity I think its best to move on. Barca were the better team, but perhaps there could have been an Inter Milan-esque shock in it had it stayed 11v11 but it didn't, so there wasn't. 'Nuff said.

Onwards warriors, lets use this injustice to fuel our desire for success on the home front.

WG

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RvP to start!! Abidal and Correia in defence for Barca

As expected, RvP has come through to start against Barca. I hope he's fit. We really don't need him getting crocked tonight.

An interesting selection from Guardiola in playing Busquets at centre-back with Abidal. However it does mean Mascherano is in midfield which will make it a tough game.

Fabregas, Diaby and Wilshire complete our central midfield tonight with Rosicky out on the right and Nasri on the left with the licence to interchange with Rosicky. Rosicky's understanding with Cesc, Nasri and Wilshire will be absolutely critical tonight and he's a player who is very experienced at this level. I hope he'll continue to prove doubters wrong.

As for Wilshire, its his chance to make old Guardiola realise that our "B" team boy is well up for showing up a certain partnership of Xavi and Iniesta...he will just need Diaby to work his socks off and keep onto possession, something that has escaped him so far in his return from injury.

I'm nervous and excited. Time for a beer.

COME ON YOU GOONERS!!

WG

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Arsenal 17/2 to beat Barca? Are you kidding me?!

I hopped on that faster than I could blink. I wouldn't normally shout about it but I got it on with Betfair.

If anyone else finds better odds post them in the comments...

We are more than capable of getting a result in the Camp Nou, they are without their first choice defensive pairing of Puyol and Pique, relying on the partnership of Abidal and Busquets to repel any Arsenal attacks.

If ever there was a time that we needed a pacy attack it would be tonight, with a rather untested defensive pairing to have a go at.

Still waiting on news on RvP. If he's not fit I'd quite like to see Chamakh start, I think he links up better than Bendtner. Lets hope for good news on Robin though, we're stronger with him than without.

WG.

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"We've got many players like him in our second team"

The war of words begin. Suspicions of gamesmanship and trickery by Arsene over the injuries to Cesc and RvP are being mooted in the media. The above quote is from Pep Guardiola regarding young Jack, though perhaps its worth mentioning that if Pep actually watched the game at the Emirates, Jack tore Iniesta and Xavi a new one. More than once too.

Arsene's response to the criticism's and mooted suggestions was simple, "The whole truth is what I have given you here. We'll see tomorrow morning. The medical team will assess him and I would like him to play. But I will only play him if he is 100 per cent fit. OK, I will consider 99.5."

"For me these are two problems," he said. "Cesc had a muscle problem. Robin has a ligament problem. There is more risk for a muscle problem. So it is just whether he feels he is fit to play. There is not the same risk of recurrence like there is with a muscular problem."

Personally, in preference to Bendtner I'd play RvP if we had to wheel him around the pitch. Thats not to say that I don't value Bendtner's input I just think RvP is sharper and he's got the ability to nick a goal more than Bendtner can Nik a goal...(see what I did there?)

I'm holding my breath until after lunch when we hear the results of the fitness tests etc..

Til later Gooners, COME ON LETS DO IT.

WG

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Belated, but not indiscreet

The Sunderland game was always one I wanted to look at but I wanted to wait until all of the weekend fixtures were complete. The bigger picture, after all is the one that matters the most.

It seems we have been lucky again doesn't it? We suffered against Sunderland with a decent team performance, decisions against us and we sneaked a point at the end. Looking at it full harshness turned on, whilst we were robbed of a goal and a penalty, we really should be putting teams like that under more pressure.

That said however, I couldn't bring myself to be angry, the indifferent first half performance whilst frustrating, I kind of expected knowing whats to happen tonight. Lets face it, noone wants to get injured for a game like this. It was encouraging to see Chamakh's performance, it was full of energy when he came on and he did make a difference, his header against the bar was frustrating, but his contribution was good and he was unfortunate to not be on the scoresheet from that header, a inch lower and it was in the bag.

On the game overall, Denilson and Diaby struggled again. Its a shame for Denilson, I feel he can definitely play football and he's a decent player, but he isn't a Premier League class central midfielder. Its not rare for me to make such sweeping statements, but I think he really struggles with the pace of the Prem. He's never been blessed with pace and his first instinct is never to look up, its always "Lay it off, move and look to receive again"...which is great in possession, pass and move football but invariably he's found facing our own goal and just passes it back to our defence or sideways and puts a colleague into trouble with a hospital ball.

Diaby is still suffering after his injury and is chasing match fitness. He's an enigma to me, He's got power, good feet, his movement is good but he's a bit of a crock. I don't know whether its because we're mistreating him or whether he's just unlucky but is it time to call time?

I'd love your feedback on it, everyone I talk to is mixed about him. We can all see his potential, but we can't keep him fit.

I will put up the preview to tonights game shortly.

WG

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Oriental fallout after kicking

Wednesday night was enjoyable wasn't it? It was good to see the boys enjoying themselves and getting a good result in the process.

What was a marked difference from THAT game was that there seemed to be a more aggressive, determined aura about the team. Nasri's frustration at fluffing a chance when we were 4:0 up was just one indicator of their desire to win convincingly.

I was pleased for Chamakh, him getting the scoreboard ticking over will be good for his confidence and we needed it. Rosicky, as tipped on here put in a great shift and those doom-mongers who have suggested he's past it and a 'waste of a player' should firmly be put in their place.

Did anyone else see that shot by Denilson? Unbelieveable!

Naturally the hat-trick for NB52 will further back up his belief that he's the worlds greatest and if he carries on that scoring form I'll not tell him any different.

Coming up soon the team news for Sunderland

WG

Finishing the job. Professional-like.

After the first game at the O's we were largely unfussed about the result. Rounds of "ahh it was a good day out and they deserve a go at the Emirates" and "We'll put it right at home so it doesn't matter" were hitting the blogosphere and I'll admit I subscribe to that train of thought too.

It does give us the opportunity to banish the negativity following the weekend's performance by playing a solid, professional game and getting the right result.

Almunia
Eboue	Miquel Squillaci			Gibbs
	Ramsey Denilson
Bendtner		Diaby		Arshavin
		Chamakh

The return of Rambo is significant for tonight. He's been playing reasonably regularly for Cardiff and his form is good and with Arsene's suggestion that he might play tonight I see it as an opportunity to rest Wilshire too. However, he could also be on the bench and Rosicky to start in his place, such is the competition for places...

Apologies for the sarcasm, it is generally beneath me..ok its not but the point is, we do have reasonably fit bodies to put in there and their quality is more than enough to win against a busy, robust Orient.

I'm also looking forward to Miquel being given another opportunity as he was not selected for the reserves against West Ham to keep him fit for this fixture. I think he's a great prospect and I don't think he'll disappoint.

I'm looking forward to the game and hopefully I'll be happy with the result. Now the question is, given the fact that the Verminator didn't play for the reserves, will Arsene risk him tonight?

Til next time Gooners!

WG

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If in doubt..

...kick it out. A simple adage, designed to instill a bit of instict in such situations. This is the last time I will say this but it was Koscielny's responsibility to clear the ball if he had already prepared himself to do so.

Safety first.

Birmingham hadn't been causing a threat from throw-ins. Booting it into touch wouldn't have hurt, or at least it seems unlikely.

Of course Sczcesny called, but, as has already happened this season, if the defender is able to clear safely without pressure from an opposition player then he should choose to do so. Koscielny had a clear opportunity to remove the danger and dallied when he heard the call. He should have put his foot through it and put it safe.

I am a big fan of Koscielny and I think this is simply a blip on what has been a great season for him this year. Sczcesny is a good young talent and I think he will be a great keeper. Lets not get carried away, we should have put the game to bed way before the 89th minute.

Onwards to the O's tomorrow night. Team news to follow.

WG

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A more sensible review perhaps..

Yesterday was painful. Frustrating. It highlighted every little problem with the Arsenal team this season.

When the 4-2-3-1 formation isnt working (i.e. in the absence of Fabregas) we need to do one of two things, switch to 4-4-2 and put two strikers up front to pressurise the opposition defence or what I'd prefer move Wilshire forward into Fab's role and put Rosicky behind in the deep playmaker role.

Contrary to a lot of frustrated reviews including my own to a point, I thought Rosicky did ok, our midfield was let down badly yesterday by Song who was rarely in the game and when he was he wasn't effective. Rosicky is a shadow of the player he was, but he still is excellent at receiving and distributing the ball forwards with pace and accuracy. He is the master of one-touch football and he did ok yesterday. He didn't set the game alight, but he did help keep it smouldering and allowed Wilshire space and time to perform.

Arshavin and Nasri both did well in bursts but as a whole, collectively our attack did not produce enough.

Defensively, much is being made of our inability to deal with Zigic. Its not a problem that is solely ours, he's a difficult player to play against because he is a man-mountain. Could we have dealt with him better, of course but he is more than a handful and that must be recognised.

I think we were a bit naive at times, we allowed him to position himself in front of Sczcesny and the chaos that caused left Szczesny with a bad starting position for the first goal and subsequent corners, Szczesny needs to boss his defence more and tell them he doesn't want that.

Substitutions, oh the frustration. Arsene did the right thing, he put on his two striking options in Bendtner and Chamakh when the injury to RvP was apparent and when Arshavin needed to come off. At the time I thought it was the right decision and it certainly put us back in the game and we enjoyed a strong period of possession and put pressure on the Brum defence, neither striker was provided with a gilt-edged chance and Bendtner tried to tee-up Rosicky but Foster was sharp and saved well.

I still think it was the right decision.

It just wasn't our day. If it was we'd have done better in the first half and been 2:1 up.

WG

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Moving swiftly on.

As I sat in disbelief, my mobile bleeping away with the taunts of Mancs a certain calm washed over me. We can't highlight the howler at the end as the issue, Koscielny and Sczcesny didn't lose us the game because we shouldn't have been at 1:1 at that point.

In terms of fact, we lost 2:1 to a fortunate winner from the opportunistic Martins.

At the moment, I really have no idea how I feel about it. In terms of collective responsibility, Nasri, Song, Clichy, Sagna didn't show enough yesterday and didnt perform as they could.

Arshavin played well and consistently created chances in and around the box, RvP despite taking his chance extremely well didn't set the final alight and I guess thats just the story of the day, too many players didn't perform to their ability. In fairness to Brum they did really well and deserved it.

I will never forget the look on Cesc's face when the goal went in. I'd love to know what he is thinking. Is it, "If I was playing we'd have won?" is it "What am I doing wasting time here?" certainly it was a great chance to win some silverware.

I'd love to have been a fly on the wall in the Arsenal dressing room after the game.

WG

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Team news

Arshavin to start, the spiky russian will be tasked with creating space and chances between the Brum midfield and their defence.

Bendtner is on the Bench today with RvP upfront. Arsene is taking this game very seriously but has picked up an attacking line up to take the game to them and that fills me with confidence.

Look for the Djourou-Wilshire-Arshavin-Nasri-Rosicky combo, it will drive us forward today.

We will win and win well.

WG

Bovvered?! Its only the Copper Cup!

I find myself in a quandrary. I'm nervous about tomorrow. I know I shouldn't be. I know on paper and on the pitch we are better than the Brum.

However, I'm realistic enough to know that over 90mins anything can happen and invariably does.

I'm going out tonight for food and beer and I'm sure that will calm these pre-final nerves. We need that trophy, but we still have to earn it.

Team news and line-up to follow tomorrow morning.

WG
Victoria Concordia Crescit.

Marouane Chamakh - form is temporary...

..Class is permanent. There has been much media commentary about his "Tiredness" and indeed the player himself has admitted that his early season exploits have dulled his edge and left him tired.

I really rate Chamakh, I think he's a really good player and he will only get better with us. I hope the physio's are working him really hard to get his stamina and conditioning up to scratch so he is ready for the forthcoming games.

Chamakh played an awful amount of games at the start of the season, what with us and games for Morocco he's played a lot of football. The Premier League is played at a ferocious pace compared to the French leagues and its no surprise he's feeling the strain, especially as his game is largely based on work-rate and movement.

As it stands, I'm yet to be convinced that Bendtner is a better player and whilst Chamakh is a bit off form at the moment, I am expecting a Arshavin-esque comeback. We will need him in the run in and it will be great for him to be part of that.

Come on Chamakh, play this weekend and remind us why you're such an asset to Arsenal.

WG

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Just what the doctor ordered!

Winning 1:0 at home against Stoke isn't a marquee result. Its a great result for us in the title race.

Some fans are suggesting we should have won by a bigger margin, I think we were unfortunate not to score more, but the three points were expensive enough with injuries to Theo and Cesc marring the win.

Theo is definitely out of this weekends final with Cesc, RvP and Koscielny all having fitness tests in a race to be fit.

In terms of the Prem, we're one point behind ManYoo and they have some tought games ahead against Chelsea and the vibrant Liverpool who are anxious to rescue their season.

Me, I'm just hoping for good news on our injuries, they're all key players and we need them back.

WG

Wellington Silva - suffering at Levante

The usual spite from the Daily Mail continues. Usually I wouldn't give stories like this the time of day, but the tone of the Daily Mail article frustrated me, they are almost revelling in dealing this spiteful article, which is no doubt misquoted and mistranslated.

Wellington is struggling to settle and isn't getting much game time at the moment, which is causing the media to wonder/make up stories why.

The Daily Mail has said the following;

'I want him to be more professional in his behaviour,' Garcia said. 'Arsenal want us to work and help him and not only in terms of football. 'We've drawn up a programme for him and I want more time spent with his team-mates to help him settle and with the different language.

'He does have a problem settling in, being lonely. It's important that he has someone to help and guide him.'

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1359796/Arsenal-kid-Wellington-Silva-told-Cut-pizzas-Twitter.html#ixzz1EmtZba72

Firstly, the lad's 18 and has just moved to a new country. Its a whole new way of life for him and its tough. I remember when we first loaned out Vela the same articles were doing the rounds, saying he was unprofessional and difficult.

Twelve Months later those sane teams and newspapers couldn't get enough of him and didn't want him to go back to Arsenal. Take such articles as these as a pinch of salt, he's a young lad finding his way in a new country, with a new team.

The old adage will always ring true, "Form is temporary, Class is permanent". Don't worry Welly old son, it'll be reet.

WG

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Ramsey to return and is pencilled in for Orient's second leg!

Aaron Ramsey has been the subject of plenty of speculation recently with Cardiff suggesting that he might be allowed to remain for the rest of the season.

However, Arsene has moved swiftly to state that he will return to Arsenal on Sunday following Cardiff's away game at Hull. Although Rambo missed the Saturday game away to Forest, he returned with a bang last night against Leicester and scored, guiding a low cross past the keeper.

That game also saw an assist from JET, setting up Michael Chopra with a low cross/cut-back across the box to take the lead.

I for one am looking forward to his return to the fold and perhaps a game against Orient as has been mooted by Arsene.

Come on Rambo!!

WG

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Swift return to normaility and focus - Team news and lineup

We play Stoke tonight in the Premier League, shock horror expect wholesale changes again to return to our normal match day squad.

After the disappointing, but not unforgivable game at the weekend its important to get back on the bus. I expect the lineup to look something like this.

Sczcesny
Sagna	Djourou Squillaci			Clichy
	Wilshire Song
Walcott		Fabregas		Nasri
		Chamakh

The Potters are a different animal from when they were promoted. They've got more mobility up front, with big strikers to attack the long ball and crosses put in by Etherington and Pennant (both tricky wingers). The long throw-ins are the stuff of Premier League legend but we have no need to fear them in the way we once did. Koscielny and Djourou are both good in the air and with Sczcesny more than capable with aerial balls I think we are in with a very good shout.

I really would like a great performance tonight, I'd like to see that arrogant little mug Pulis' face turn beetroot red with anger and then watch with joy as he wets himself in frustration, much like a baby.

A good win will put more turf between us and those below and continue to put more pressure on ManYoo.

Come on you Gooners

WG

** EDIT **

Changed Team Lineup due to injury reports to Koscielny and RvP. It was an oversight not spotted in the editing progress.

Thank you to Anonymous for spotting it!

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Tony Pulis in the Nude, in the Nude! Verminator Setback?

Shameless theft of Blog title from Alan Davies and The Tuesday Club gang who I'm delighted to have back on the Podcasts.

We've got the naked, angry man that is Tony "Rugby" Pulis and his band of cloggers tomorrow night in a important game at the Emirates. We'll need our full squad back and with focus to ensure the correct result. We need to make sure we move the ball quickly and beat them with pace and posession, we cannot get caught in a slugging match. It will take too much energy and could risk a good result. A great performance however will build the confidence further (if thats possible) for the weekends Cup Final.

For the likes of Walcott, Nasri, Cesc, Wilshire, Song and RvP its a chance to hop back into the groove and hone their match fitness. I will put up a full preview later today or tomorrow, but I'm looking forward to tomorrow night's fixture. After that ridiculous challenge by Shawcross and Pulis's beligerant outbursts I really hope we give them a Barca-like performance where we deny them the ball and attack them with pace and verve.

There are rumours about that Vermaelen has had a little setback in his recovery from his achilles operation, these are yet unconfirmed and appear to be a bit of media manipulation but either way, we need him back as soon as he is able. Djourou and Koscielny are performing like Kings, but an injury to either of them could really cause us problems.

WG

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Ok, I kind of expected that....

What I didn't expect however was I didn't expect Tomas Rosicky to head a goal, ever. It was well placed and really saved a drab performance, until the last few minutes.

I'm not going to trash the team, it was what it was, wholesale changes proved too many changes to keep a fluid follow-on performance after midweek.

I expected our second string to get a result but they showed a worrying lack of cutting edge born of lack of match fitness.

That said however, Orient deserved the replay and if we'd have nicked it in the end I'd have been gutted for them. Their trip to the Emirates will be a great money-spinner for them and a great day out.

Its a replay we don't need but its another chance for the second string to get it right.

Well done the O's, Come on you gooners, stick it to 'em at home

WG

O to be a Gooner!

We take on the O's today in the FA Cup in a clash that sees us very much the favourites following a great performance midweek.

Its no time for continental hangovers, we require a professional performance. I expect the usual squad rotation with Bendtner and eboue starting in place of Walcott and Sagna. It also is another chance for Arshavin to work on his improving form.

I expect a win and don't forget to back arshavin to score.

WG

Form is temporary, Class is permanent.

Without wanting to go overboard in what was merely 90 minutes of out 180, it was an awesome performance when at times it looked like we were being swamped. Every player came out with credit and lets not be fooled into thinking that Barca lost the game rather than us taking it from them.

There were times in the early stages of the second half I was pleading for Nasri to come off to ensure his tired legs don't cause a reoccurance of his hammy injury, but as soon as we began to take control I knew we needed him.

Barca tried to play keep ball in the second half and we wouldn't let them. In terms of spirit and mentality we wanted it more than them. What this will do for our confidence is almost incomprehensible, I feel that we had belief before the game, but to have it affirmed by an excellent performance can't hurt at all.

In summary, it was an awesome fight-back and an awesome couple of finishes. RvP's shot at the near post was an excellent power-shot and Arshavin's shot was extremely well hit and placed to perfection. More proof that form is temporary, class is permanent.

We should use this confidence to fuel our focus for the match against Orient. Last nights game was an awesome spectacle and a great result but its gone now and now we need to focus on little Leyton Orient in the FA Cup. A professional performance is required.

WG

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A clash of two footballing titans

I find it difficult to find words to describe the football euphoria that is taking over me today. Work is going to take so long when all I want to do is be sat ready to watch the game with beer in hand. A match where I'd kill to be at the Emirates and none of my friends are flogging me a ticket!

So onto the football, tonight sees us take on Barca in an epic game that will decide the season for many fans. Its a watershed game, if we play well and perhaps even get a result then fans will begin to believe that we are capable of winning the Champions League, the Premier league and to a lesser extent the Carling Cup to hit a fantastic treble.

A poor performance will bring down the doom and gloom and certain areas of the fanbase will be questioning Arsene, the playing squad, tactics, our style of play. The fickle nature of our fans irks me somewhat, try being a Toffees fan, or a Latics fan...

For me, whatever the result I'm looking forward to the football, if we can compete (and I believe we can) then it will be a great spectacle and we have a great chance of getting a result. What I'd give to be in the north bank when we score....we will score tonight, Barca are great going forwards, but defensively they aren't a rock, far from it and Pique is struggling without his perennial partner, Puyol. If we can keep Alves back and keep pressing at the central defensive partnership of Pique and Puyol I think we will get a result.

Come on you gunners, stand up, stand tall, fight with all your might and the winner will take home the spoils.

WG

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The muscle drain of African Players into Europe: Trade or Trafficking - by Jonas Scherren

I came across the above thesis when researching my Johan Djourou article, I'll quote a bit below and put a link to it. Its an awesome look into the way African footballers have taken football and moved it light years forward. A great read.

The below quote is from the introduction to his thesis, but its such a great read because it gives you an understanding of where your favourite players are from and what is in their heads. Think of Adebayor, a footballer from Togo, a tiny little country now playing for Real Madrid...all because he can kick a ball. Its mad.

" 1.1 Moving with the ball African football players have a long standing tradition in European football. It is no coincidence that the Old Continent introduced what is now sometimes called the Global Game in its African colonies. Nobody probably had expected how fast the popularity of the game would spread over the continent. Football quickly became the most significant pastime of young boys. It also became one of the few areas where countries could gradually aspire to achieve the same prestige as their Western or European counterparts.

International competitions provide indeed a stage to measure themselves with their former rulers. As a consequence, football does not only intrigue the mind of the young African boy in all levels of society but has also became a true political stake. There is only one key to succeed in Europe and that is hard working. The expectations that many African players cherish are somehow different from the reality however. The change of climate, the social aspect and sometimes blatant racism on and off the field does not reallymatch their initial prospects.

The style of football in Europe collides also with how most ofthe Africans see the game. They often distinguish themselves in making the ball their own even more so because, as foreign players, they need to prove their abilities more than home players. The first generation of Nigerian players for example, always talks about how to treat the ball. "Nigerians, they say, know how to handle it: they caress it with their feet; they sway it in their neck. They touch it personally, loving and tender, pitiless and harsh, like their feeling tells them. The ball is their long life. They grew up with it in the African streets where they not only dribbled their opponents but also the chickens, goats, motorcycles and cars along the road". The immigration of African football players, seeking employment in Europe has seen increasing interest over the past years. One particular element carries an important meaning however regarding statistical analysis. Indeed, a distinction has to be drawn between players who move with or without the ball."

Its an insightful read, very well thought out and produced. I hope Jonas doesn't mind me showcasing a bit of it here and linking to it here

WG

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Johan Djourou - the missing link?

I said earlier this season I wanted to see Djourou given a shot this season. The reason behind this is that Arsene allegedly told Djourou that when he sold Kolo (and bang on time it seems, another astute sale Mr Wenger) Djourou would be the player to step up into that first team role.

Looking at Djourou, he's an impressive 6'4", powerful, pacy guy, blessed with a great reading of the game. Born in the Ivory Coast, in Abidjan no less. Abidjan seems to have been a hot-bed of talent, with the likes of Drogba, Didier Zokora, Eboue to name but a few.

Johan's family moved to Geneva when he was only 17 months old which allowed him to begin his football education in Europe in Switzerland with the Payerne Training Centre and then joined Etoile-Carouge FC as a Midfielder in 2002. Only a few months later he signed scholarship forms for Arsenal, signing professional terms on the 1st August 2003.

As most of us are very much aware its 2011 so he's been with us for 8 years. He spent a season on loan with Birmingham in 2008 and I really hoped he would be able to kick on from that and start battling for a first team spot. I saw he had great raw talent, he's strong, powerful in the air and composed on the ball.

Unfortunately, similar to the on-form RvP, injuries curtailed his progress and route to the first team. However, like RvP, he is enjoying a renaissance this season and his good form is a testament to the quality that he has in abundance provided he can stay fit. We were all there, practically chewing our nails to the bone when we saw him go off injured, especially as it was one of his troublesome knees!

I wonder, when in one of those barely lucid moments where I think back about this season, whether we are destined to win the league this season, because with Djourou and RvP we are in a great place to do it. If Djourou can put his injury concerns behind him forever, I'd like to see him lift a trophy or two, after his career to date and what he's been through, the guy deserves a break.

WG

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Domination that would put Mubarak to shame, a day for heroes

I'm hitting Political Satire too now.... anyhoo.... So we welcomed Wolves to the Grove with an ounce of trepidation considering their win against ManYoo. However that trepidation was unfounded with a performance that put down a marker for the rest of our season.

Arsene went against form by picking the likes of Cesc, RvP, Song and Djourou to ensure we had a solid team and the result made the decision worthwhile with a great game that the scoreline barely flattered.

Wayne Hennessey, Wolves goalkeeper will have done his stock a world of good with a all action performance that saw him tip, flick and scramble his way through 90 minutes but saved Wolves a real battering.

In terms of us however, it was an assured performance and just what the doctor ordered before the Barca game. It really could have been a battering so I'm glad we were able to get the result and then take off the likes of RvP to rest them for Wednesday.

Theo is really looking good at the moment and Cesc's ball for RvP's first time volley was as sublime as you will see this season, as was the volley that finished it off. Its fair to say, International Man of Cheese, Robin Van Persie is in great form and we will need to keep him fit for the rest of the season to win silverware.

I was explaining to 'er indoors last night about how massive the game on Wednesday is, how the performance will tell us how far we have moved on since last year, about how Barcelona is the benchmark at the moment. Yes Inter won the Champions League last year, but Football fans wanted Barcelona to win, Mourinho's anti-football got the cup but Barca will always hold the glory with this current crop of players.

I'm stupidly optimistic for Wednesday, I think we have a good chance. I honestly think if we get the ball down and settle we have the game to cause them problems too. I'd prefer to have the likes of the Verminator and Super Samir fit and playing but fortune favors the brave and I cannot wait to see our boys have a go.

Its a day for heroes lads, make your fans proud.

WG

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Gonna have some Wolves in our back yard..Injury news and lineup

This weekend we welcome the arrival of Wolves to the Emirates in the Premier league. With ManYoo and Citeh playing each other tomorrow and Chelski playing on monday its another important opportunity for us to get the three points and catch up on ManYoo.

Honestly I fancy Citeh for the game against ManYoo. ManYoo aren't invincible and Citeh should have enough in their locker now to snatch a result, with a draw or win for Citeh my preference.

Onto Arsenal, Karl Henry returns to the Emirates. Recently he has been very quiet so I expect him to return to full form and kick the hell out of Wilshire and Fabregas. Watch those reactions boys, he's not worth it.

After their shock, yet fully deserved win against ManYoo, I expect Wolves to be full of confidence and belief that they can take points off us too. We will need to come out of the changing rooms like our butts are on fire and blow them away in the first fifteen minutes. Ironically just like we did against Newcastle, but lets not then throw it away eh?

Wierdly, our strongest department where we have the most personnel is decimated his weekend with injuries and suspensions to Diaby, Song, Denilson and Nasri which leaves us rather light in central midfield. I think Arsene will look to the experience of Rosicky to help partner Jacky in the engine room, its a role he's played before and whilst its not really his game, he can perform there.

Sczcesny
Sagna	Koscielny Squillaci			Clichy
	Wilshire Rosicky
Walcott		Fabregas		Arshavin
		Chamakh

So above is what I think we will line up like. I believe Arsene will give Djourou the time to recover fully before Barcelona and therefore start Squillaci at the back. While you are watching the game ladies and gents.....see if Squillaci actually says anything to Koscielny, it will be interesting to see if he has learnt the art of communication, especially as they share a common language!

Theo will start as he is bang on form and I expect Chamakh to start up front with RvP on the bench being rested for Wednesday, though I expect Arsene will say he's not fit to start following his withdrawal from the international friendly.

Come on you Gooners...lets go get at them at get three points. There isn't anything better than giving someone a battering on the pitch and seeing your title rivals drop points...lets make this a magic weekend!!

WG

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Capello finally listening to Arsene?

England played a solid game last night against a determined and skillfull Denmark. The Danes played well and certainly a young Christian Eriksen, who currently plies his trade at Ajax.

Denis Bergkamp recommended this player to Arsene last year and its clear to see why. He would fit in immediately into our squad and style of play. His one touch passing and vision is excellent. He had a great game and if we aren't going to go for him then I fully expect someone else to do so very soon.

Returning my focus to England and our boys Walcott and Wilshire. Wilshire had an accomplished 45 minutes where he showcased the qualities of his game, he tackled well, moved the ball well and generally had a good performance. With that in mind, I was delighted that he only played 45 minutes. He's played a lot of football and it was good to rest him for the rest of the game.

Walcott had a stormer last night, his assist for the first goal was excellent considering the whack in the face he took as he bulldozed past the full back Jacobsen to put across an excellent ball for a waiting Bent to tap in. His efforts down the right created several chances and its a game the Danish full back will rue for some time I would think. Theo played to plan and stuck out wide and was rewarded with several opportunities with time and space to get at the full-back, exactly what he wants.

Harking back to the title of the article, did anyone else notice the likes of Glen Johnson, Milner, Terry, Bent playing the full 93odd minutes tonight? We got away with 45minutes for Wilshire and 68minutes for Theo. We've got some huge games coming up and we need our best players fit for Wolves then Barca.

Early guesses for the Squad against Wolves, I expect Squillaci to start as Wenger saves the recovering Djourou for Barcelona. Also I think he'll start Walcott and I have a niggling feeling that Chamakh will start, with Arsene wanting to rest RvP.

Personally, I can't wait and a full preview will follow soon

WG

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JD - I'll be fit for Saturday

Johan Djourou has said he'll be fit for Saturday in an interview for the BBC. This is absolutely awesome news. With the Verminator still coming back from injury and being wrapped in cotton wool and Squillaci suffering a bit of poor form and lack of confidence I find it difficult to express how critical how the in-form JD is to us right now.

I'm absolutely delighted, good job Arsenal Physio's!

WG

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Fat Frank to lead with Theo and Jack propping him up

Fat Frank Lampard, allegedly sponsored by Ginsters pasties ltd, has been named as England Captain in the absense of Ferdinand and Gerrard. He certainly has the experience, but I'd suggest as he is more than able of being anonymous in an England shirt it might not be such an amazing choice, but these days being Captain doesn't mean much anymore. There isn't the respect for the armband that there used to be.

All that negativity aside, Super-Theo and Young Jacky are in the squad and both look ready to start tonight in Denmark. Jacky is to be given the midfield holding role, as previously held by Barry in another opportunity to show his talents in an England shirt. His link up play, already acknowledged and credited by Theo is already well known and his performances in our midfield have been excellent. His eye for the pass and the execution of his vision is going to be a great benefit tonight.

Theo should benefit from this and he's in good form. I expect Theo to to really put a stamp on the game tonight to show Fabio what a mistake he made by not taking him. Theo offers something entirely different to any other England player. He offers a more direct threat than any player and he will always make an opposition defence twitchy about their positioning as they worry about his pace breaking through just as he did against the Barcodes.

I'm looking at tonight with my usual lack of passion, but I'm looking forward to see how Jacky and Theo get on. I almost expect Jack to be awesome, so much I really think the papers will be full of him tomorrow.

Lets hope its for the right reasons!

WG

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Get out of jail free weekend.

This isn't the first time I've said this, forgive me for the repetition, but its that kind of season. How fortunate are we again? We capitulate and have poor decisions taken against us and the fear was that it would cost us badly.

It seems that the luck was with us again. Chelsea and ManYoo losing softened the blow, but its still two points lost. I really would like to talk to the referee and his lino and just ask him what they think they saw Rosicky do? A ridiculous decision, one which could, conceivably cost us the league.

However, it will be interesting to see how ManYoo respond to the defeat at Wolves, where being honest they we're woeful and didn't deserve a pie at half time, let alone 3 points. I'm hoping they crumble a little, now would be a great time to catch up whilst their fixtures are tougher than ours...on paper at least.

I hope the players use that result against the Barcodes to enforce the siege mentality, everyone is punishing us at the moment. Lets show them all that we are not so easily swayed from our targets. We are Arsenal, victory through harmony.

That in mind however,I would just like to say, I've seen it lots of times and I still can't condone Diaby's reaction. I know he's been injured and had his fair share of bad tackles, but you have to be bigger than that. Getting injured happens in football, deal with it. He can't keep reacting like that everytime he gets a robust challenge.

WG

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Crazy decisions, overreactions and a disappointing finish

I'll be honest, half time, 4:0 up I did expect us to take a foot off the gas. I didn't expect us to capitulate so badly.

The barcodes were spirited, determind and focussed. We were not. Diaby,s sending off was laughable, he's supposed to be a professional. Its a shame because his contribution up to that point was decent.

The second penalty decision was awful! Terrible decision. The wrestling of sczcesny was also ridiculous and deserved a more strict response.

The saving grace was ManYoo losing, but really its two points lost :(

WG

Circle the wagons boys! Them barcodes are comin!

With much criticism being aired in the media at Cesc, its important to stress one thing. How awesome is this timing?

With the forthcoming fixtures being so critical, I am delighted that this has come out. Come on Cesc, prove every single one of those muppets wrong. We've all come off the pitch, high on adrenaline and full of passion and said one thing or another. It happens. Why this particular incident is being highlighted seems to be unknown, but if the guys needed firing up, then this should do it.

I know its not nice to read everyone having a pop, but if there was anything we needed to galvanise our squad further, here it is.

Millwall played for years with a "no-one likes us, everybody hates us and we don't give a s@#t" attitude kicking everyone on and off the pitch and it generates an amazing togetherness and a willingness to fight for each other.

Come on you Barcodes, we're going to stuff you geordies and show you that 35mil in the bank isn't half as good as a decent striker up front.

WG

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Koscielny - Poll results

I posted a poll last week about Laurent Koscielny - Is Koscielny now considered "GOOD ENOUGH" for Arsenal.

The results of the poll are as follows;

A total of 190 votes were received

Yes = 150 (78%)

No = 2 (1%)

Not Yet = 36 (18%)

Not in a million years = 2 (1%)

With Kozzer's recent goal-scoring form also adding to his fine defensive performances it seems Gooners everywhere are realising his ability and potential. Good on the lad, I've been impressed with him, his desire and workrate.

Keep it up lad!

WG

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