Arsenal got their busy Christmas schedule off to the worst possible start on Saturday with a 1-0 defeat at Sunderland. But worst of all, and a major sin for an Arsenal side under Wenger, Arsenal rarely looked like scoring.
There was an early shot by Rosicky which was saved and a chance for Eduardo after a good run by Song and that was it in the first half. A couple of crosses flashed across the area in the second half and a half-chance for Arshavin after a good ball from Song and that was about it. Way below par for Arsenal this season, considering that the goals have been flying in.
The absence of RvP is obviously going to be used as an excuse but it was clear to see we were lacking a spark in attack. It's not just his goals but his contribution to our overall play that we missed. We also lacked a real physical presence in attack and finished the game with Walcott, Arshavin, Vela, Nasri and Cesc on the pitch. Bags of talent but not really the most physically imposing forward lines.
Their goal was the kind of goal Arsenal concede. Corner comes in, nobody really wins it, it bounced off one of their players at the back post and fell perfectly for Darren Bent who smashed it in. Vermaelen was marking him, or meant to be. He was also marking the Wolves player who scored their goal from a corner a few weeks back. And like then Almunia didn't really do anything this time either. He wasn't really at fault but he didn't really do anything. We had a decent shout for a penalty but it was the type you don't really get away from home. And that was it. Bit of a limp performance really and reminded me of a typical post-interlull performance.
Arsene Wenger has had some interesting things to say about the game here and here. Usually Wenger blames the sun the moon and the stars before laying any fault at the feet of the players but that first link says:
"I believe, maybe, we didn’t realise enough the importance of the difficulty here.
“We were much better at Man City, we were much better at Manchester United than we were today that is for sure. Today we were not good enough, I don’t deny that."
I agree that this is the first time we have been really poor despite those two other defeats, but more significantly in his comments last season and for the past few it has been all "we are learning" and "we are still young" and not often enough has Arsene said straight up we were not good enough. Perhaps he no longer considers this team "young" and wants to see some return for his faith. I know the fans do.
Also worth noting in the second link:
"For me, the big season is with Arsenal, not the World Cup," he said.
"We don't pay players to go to the World Cup - we pay them to do well for Arsenal. The first pride of a man is to do well for the guy who pays you."
There has been a bit of talk that for the young squad we have our wage bill is surprisingly high, third to Chelsea and Man Utd. Again perhaps Wenger now wants some return on his huge investment. Again, I know the fans do.
It's a real change in attitude from the manager. I will be very interested to see if anything else changes in the future.
Arsene said today that Kieran Gibbs is back for tomorrow's game but nobody else is yet fit but more on that tomorrow.
Also today Stan the Man has taken himself ever so close to the 30% threshold after buying ten more shares. I wonder what the gameplan is here, I really do. If it is a full takeover just do it. If not, why the small purchases? We shall see in the future no doubt.
Monday, 23 November 2009
Thursday, 19 November 2009
Thierry Henry, Injuries, The Next Batch Of Arsenal Games
I finally find time to blog again and the thing most of the football world is talking about is Arsenal legend Thierry Henry's handball when creating the goal which took France through to the World Cup at the expense of the Republic of Ireland.
I hate international football, so this will probably be one of the few times I discuss it here. Henry did handle the ball and admitted as much this morning. The question I will ask is what exactly should he have done after the ball struck his hand? Told the referee? Really? Would an Irish player have done that? Would anyone? And calls for a replay are ridiculous and sets an unworkable precedent. But that won't stop newspapers filling column inches until the next hot topic comes along.
Like the Eduardo thing earlier this season it is a hysterical over reaction and unless you are willing to actually do something about it such as introduce video evidence and help the referees make the correct decision then these things will happen again and again. You cannot tell players they must win, they must do their best to win, do all they can to win then if they do something you don't like condemn them.
It's a shame as Henry has always had a reputation as one of the more honest footballers out there but he showed when the pressure is on people will do whatever it takes to win. Here's a nice little poem about it. And that's my lot on bloody international football.
Right on to the injury situation, which has been made much worse by...the past ten days...and bloody international football. Losing RvP, probably until after Christmas, is a massive blow, not only because he has been scoring but he has also been bringing the best out of those around him, especially Cesc. Eduardo, who yesterday signed a new contract, is the most likely replacement and I have faith that he can do a job there. In my view his finishing is first class, but what we need from him and where RvP has been so good is holding the ball up and bringing others into the game. I think Eduardo is better in this department than many give him credit for. We shall see. But let's hope he does stay fit or we will really be screwed if he is out.
Diaby is also injured. A more predictable sentence you will not read this year. "A few weeks" is the initial diagnosis. I know opinion is split about Diaby but I would rather have him fit than not, especially taking into account other injuries.
Kieran Gibbs is also out but not for as long as feared. Initial fears about a broken foot were wrong and it is just bad bruising, so the absence will be "short term." Fortunately this is one area where we do have decent cover so if fit, Traore should probably play on Saturday or if not Silvestre, which is slightly scarier.
Denilson may be back in time for Saturday, along with Carlos Vela but Walcott is probably not back until Chelsea the following week.
The injury situation has got a bit overwhelming again, indeed Physio Room has us top of the injury league with 11 players out. Well we are joint top with Everton but I think we will see their challenge off.
I keep going on about injuries but they will be crucial this season. Who is injured, how long for, how we cope without them. We will find out in the next 6 weeks I guess. The injuries have got worse just as we begin a spell of 9 games in 28 days, including Chelsea at home and Liverpool away.
I like to break the season down into batches of games, the last one coming between international breaks and this one running from this international break until Christmas. We performed well in the last batch of games between international breaks, winning five out of seven games with just the disappointing draws at AZ and West Ham the only disappointments. The draws came in quick succession and it is often the case with Wenger's Arsenal that one bad result follows another. So it's crucial to keep the momentum going for as long as possible and increase the confidence and belief in the team.
Wenger commented this week how big psychology is to him and his team's preparation here and of particular interest he says:
“For it to work, players must take themselves available for the ball,” he told French radio.
"That’s where top-level sport becomes really interesting, in finding a way to have the team in a position of psychological comfort so that they can offer solutions.
“Because you know that, when doubt creeps in, the green lights become red lights.
“Because each player takes fewer spontaneous initiatives and, all of a sudden, it’s absolutely unbelievable at what speed all those lights become red and the player with the ball finds himself in the s***."
As I say above, this has manifested itself many times in the past. One bad result has led to another and another. When the unbeaten run ended more defeats followed. But I have faith that the players that are still fit can keep the run going. Firstly with Saturday's trip to Sunderland which I will hope to cover tomorrow. Until then, keep your hands away from any balls.
I hate international football, so this will probably be one of the few times I discuss it here. Henry did handle the ball and admitted as much this morning. The question I will ask is what exactly should he have done after the ball struck his hand? Told the referee? Really? Would an Irish player have done that? Would anyone? And calls for a replay are ridiculous and sets an unworkable precedent. But that won't stop newspapers filling column inches until the next hot topic comes along.
Like the Eduardo thing earlier this season it is a hysterical over reaction and unless you are willing to actually do something about it such as introduce video evidence and help the referees make the correct decision then these things will happen again and again. You cannot tell players they must win, they must do their best to win, do all they can to win then if they do something you don't like condemn them.
It's a shame as Henry has always had a reputation as one of the more honest footballers out there but he showed when the pressure is on people will do whatever it takes to win. Here's a nice little poem about it. And that's my lot on bloody international football.
Right on to the injury situation, which has been made much worse by...the past ten days...and bloody international football. Losing RvP, probably until after Christmas, is a massive blow, not only because he has been scoring but he has also been bringing the best out of those around him, especially Cesc. Eduardo, who yesterday signed a new contract, is the most likely replacement and I have faith that he can do a job there. In my view his finishing is first class, but what we need from him and where RvP has been so good is holding the ball up and bringing others into the game. I think Eduardo is better in this department than many give him credit for. We shall see. But let's hope he does stay fit or we will really be screwed if he is out.
Diaby is also injured. A more predictable sentence you will not read this year. "A few weeks" is the initial diagnosis. I know opinion is split about Diaby but I would rather have him fit than not, especially taking into account other injuries.
Kieran Gibbs is also out but not for as long as feared. Initial fears about a broken foot were wrong and it is just bad bruising, so the absence will be "short term." Fortunately this is one area where we do have decent cover so if fit, Traore should probably play on Saturday or if not Silvestre, which is slightly scarier.
Denilson may be back in time for Saturday, along with Carlos Vela but Walcott is probably not back until Chelsea the following week.
The injury situation has got a bit overwhelming again, indeed Physio Room has us top of the injury league with 11 players out. Well we are joint top with Everton but I think we will see their challenge off.
I keep going on about injuries but they will be crucial this season. Who is injured, how long for, how we cope without them. We will find out in the next 6 weeks I guess. The injuries have got worse just as we begin a spell of 9 games in 28 days, including Chelsea at home and Liverpool away.
I like to break the season down into batches of games, the last one coming between international breaks and this one running from this international break until Christmas. We performed well in the last batch of games between international breaks, winning five out of seven games with just the disappointing draws at AZ and West Ham the only disappointments. The draws came in quick succession and it is often the case with Wenger's Arsenal that one bad result follows another. So it's crucial to keep the momentum going for as long as possible and increase the confidence and belief in the team.
Wenger commented this week how big psychology is to him and his team's preparation here and of particular interest he says:
“For it to work, players must take themselves available for the ball,” he told French radio.
"That’s where top-level sport becomes really interesting, in finding a way to have the team in a position of psychological comfort so that they can offer solutions.
“Because you know that, when doubt creeps in, the green lights become red lights.
“Because each player takes fewer spontaneous initiatives and, all of a sudden, it’s absolutely unbelievable at what speed all those lights become red and the player with the ball finds himself in the s***."
As I say above, this has manifested itself many times in the past. One bad result has led to another and another. When the unbeaten run ended more defeats followed. But I have faith that the players that are still fit can keep the run going. Firstly with Saturday's trip to Sunderland which I will hope to cover tomorrow. Until then, keep your hands away from any balls.
Thursday, 5 November 2009
Arsenal 4 -1 AZ Alkmaar, Stan The Man Getting Close
First up today i'm gonna have to come clean and at the same time ask a favour. Please don't use this as a source for advice when placing a bet on Arsenal. Yesterday I said:
Going on previous encounters with Ronald Koeman's teams I wouldn't expect a high scoring affair...
Well Arsenal certainly showed me and they certainly showed Ronald Koeman and his team. These were the Dutch Champions last season? The Dutch league is certainly not what it once was. But in truth I think Arsenal would have beaten anyone playing as they did last night. The first may have been a bit of a soft, albeit well-placed, shot from Cesc but all it did was calm the nerves and open the game up. The second came from a neat pass from Arshavin to Nasri, who turned the defender before finishing nicely for his first goal of the season. A lovely through ball, again from Arshavin gave Cesc all the time in the world to finish high into the net for the third.
The fourth was a lovely flowing move of the type that Arsenal used to score from quite regularly a few years ago. Nasri won the ball from an AZ throw in deep in our half and it fell to Diaby who flicked it to Ramsey who fed it into Eduardo who then produced a lovely back heel for the scurrying Arshavin who then cut back and played a through ball to Diaby who had run around 70 yards. After one touch to control the ball he finished neatly across the goal keeper.
I had a good moan about Diaby yesterday for his performance on Saturday but last night was much, much better. The pace of the game in Europe seems to suit him so much better but he seemed to keep things simple last night, tried to stay central and the result was a much better overall display. I was thinking about his performances this season while at the game last night and it occurred to me that perhaps his presence in the team alongside Song is liberating Cesc to join the attack whenever he can. Knowing there are two other central midfielders in the side allows Cesc to make runs forward without having to worry too much about holding his position. And going on last night and recent games this is paying off.
I would still like to see Diaby more careful in position and be more content to play a simple pass and hold his position. It doesn't help that his natural instincts seem to be to attack but if he can be Cesc's insurance policy and keep it simple and stay fit then hopefully he can produce more performances like this one. Four goals for Abou this season is a decent return.
Arshavin created three of the goals last night and I know there has been some discussion on whether he looks happy or is 100% right but I simply think he is being asked to do much more work in this formation than he has been used to previously. He found himself in the left back position at one stage, covering for Gibbs. To create three goals in one game is pretty good going, even for an Arsenal player at home, where we seem to be banging them in at the moment. If this is him not looking quite right, I will take it.
The only slight disappointment was the late goal we conceded but it wouldn't be an Arsenal game without a goal conceded. It was a break from a corner, we were 4-0 up at the time and it was a bit of a mis-hit I think which caught Almunia out and while I wouldn't get too worried about it when you have scored four I always like clean sheets and it was a shame we couldn't keep one here. Let's get all the silly late goals out the way now before the kncok-out stage where they may be crucial.
The other big news of the day is that Stan Kroenke has bought a further 200 shares in Arsenal taking him to 29.9%, just below the 30% level at which he would be forced to make an offer for the remaining shares. The question now is will he increase his stake and buy the rest of the club? Or is he done for now?
I have a feeling that Mr Kroenke will be satisfied with his 29.9% stake for now. If he was going to launch a full takeover why hasn't he already? Also part of today's share acquisition came from the current chairman Peter Hill-Wood. Seems like a strange time to sell if a full takeover is about to be launched. Could it be that Mr Chairman is helping Stan get to the maximum shareholding he can achieve without launching a full takeover?
It seems like the board, which now includes Kroenke, want as many of the shares in their control. The reasons for this and what Kroenke actually wants to do with Arsenal is a matter for pure speculation. As always with this type of stuff it should never get in the way of what happens on the pitch and let us hope it never does.
One more game before the international break, away at Wolves on Saturday. I'll talk about that more tomorrow.
Going on previous encounters with Ronald Koeman's teams I wouldn't expect a high scoring affair...
Well Arsenal certainly showed me and they certainly showed Ronald Koeman and his team. These were the Dutch Champions last season? The Dutch league is certainly not what it once was. But in truth I think Arsenal would have beaten anyone playing as they did last night. The first may have been a bit of a soft, albeit well-placed, shot from Cesc but all it did was calm the nerves and open the game up. The second came from a neat pass from Arshavin to Nasri, who turned the defender before finishing nicely for his first goal of the season. A lovely through ball, again from Arshavin gave Cesc all the time in the world to finish high into the net for the third.
The fourth was a lovely flowing move of the type that Arsenal used to score from quite regularly a few years ago. Nasri won the ball from an AZ throw in deep in our half and it fell to Diaby who flicked it to Ramsey who fed it into Eduardo who then produced a lovely back heel for the scurrying Arshavin who then cut back and played a through ball to Diaby who had run around 70 yards. After one touch to control the ball he finished neatly across the goal keeper.
I had a good moan about Diaby yesterday for his performance on Saturday but last night was much, much better. The pace of the game in Europe seems to suit him so much better but he seemed to keep things simple last night, tried to stay central and the result was a much better overall display. I was thinking about his performances this season while at the game last night and it occurred to me that perhaps his presence in the team alongside Song is liberating Cesc to join the attack whenever he can. Knowing there are two other central midfielders in the side allows Cesc to make runs forward without having to worry too much about holding his position. And going on last night and recent games this is paying off.
I would still like to see Diaby more careful in position and be more content to play a simple pass and hold his position. It doesn't help that his natural instincts seem to be to attack but if he can be Cesc's insurance policy and keep it simple and stay fit then hopefully he can produce more performances like this one. Four goals for Abou this season is a decent return.
Arshavin created three of the goals last night and I know there has been some discussion on whether he looks happy or is 100% right but I simply think he is being asked to do much more work in this formation than he has been used to previously. He found himself in the left back position at one stage, covering for Gibbs. To create three goals in one game is pretty good going, even for an Arsenal player at home, where we seem to be banging them in at the moment. If this is him not looking quite right, I will take it.
The only slight disappointment was the late goal we conceded but it wouldn't be an Arsenal game without a goal conceded. It was a break from a corner, we were 4-0 up at the time and it was a bit of a mis-hit I think which caught Almunia out and while I wouldn't get too worried about it when you have scored four I always like clean sheets and it was a shame we couldn't keep one here. Let's get all the silly late goals out the way now before the kncok-out stage where they may be crucial.
The other big news of the day is that Stan Kroenke has bought a further 200 shares in Arsenal taking him to 29.9%, just below the 30% level at which he would be forced to make an offer for the remaining shares. The question now is will he increase his stake and buy the rest of the club? Or is he done for now?
I have a feeling that Mr Kroenke will be satisfied with his 29.9% stake for now. If he was going to launch a full takeover why hasn't he already? Also part of today's share acquisition came from the current chairman Peter Hill-Wood. Seems like a strange time to sell if a full takeover is about to be launched. Could it be that Mr Chairman is helping Stan get to the maximum shareholding he can achieve without launching a full takeover?
It seems like the board, which now includes Kroenke, want as many of the shares in their control. The reasons for this and what Kroenke actually wants to do with Arsenal is a matter for pure speculation. As always with this type of stuff it should never get in the way of what happens on the pitch and let us hope it never does.
One more game before the international break, away at Wolves on Saturday. I'll talk about that more tomorrow.
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
A Big Few Days For Arsenal
I meant to write this before the game on Saturday. Then after. Unfortunately more boring matters got the better of my time. However i'm back in blog-writing mood, handily just before another dull two week international break, but still a couple of important games to go before then.
Tonight we face AZ in the Champions League and victory here would pretty much wrap up our qualification for the next stage. Going on previous encounters with Ronald Koeman's teams I wouldn't expect a high scoring affair, but let's just hope we get the points which will take the pressure off for the last two games.
I know I keep banging on about injuries and luck with injuries but with a squad as thin as ours in key positions our success this season will depend massively on our luck in this department. So it is slightly worrying that we are back up to nine on the injury front after it seemed to be easing. Gael Clichy is out for at least a month with a back injury, but knowing Arsenal I would be surprised to see him before Christmas. No major headaches there as Gibbs is a more than capable deputy and I think it will be good to give him a run in the team where he can hopefully show Clichy that he has a fight on his hands for the left back spot. Also Traore is due back any day now from the groin strain he has been suffering with.
Slightly more worrying is the injury to Bendtner. Not only is it a recurrence of the injury that kept him out recently but it leaves us slightly short of options in attack, especially in games where we need a bit more of a physical presence among our forwards. RvP is in fine form at the moment but alternatives to him in the central striker role are Eduardo and...that's it really. Walcott and Vela are also injured so we must hope that RvP stays healthy and in top form.
It says much about RvP's transformation that he is now considered one of our most important players. Obviously Cesc would also fall into this category but more surprising is the fact that even with a fully fit squad I am not sure we could cope without Alex Song. His form has improved dramatically in the past year or two and he was immense on Saturday. With Cameroon qualifying for the African Cup of Nations we will have to do without him for most of January and goodness knows how. Perhaps Wenger will dust off the chequebook.
The other area where we are vulnerable in the event of any injuries is the centre of defence. Tommy V and Gallas have been superb so far this season and the cover for them is not good. I'm not sure who would be first up but either way it is not a nice thought.
Anyway enough about injuries, what else is happening?
Abou Diaby, who had a bit of a torrid time on Saturday despite the great result, speaks on Arsenal.com here and here.
One of the few negatives from Saturday, his performance was a major disappointment. But as I said earlier in the season, one of his targets will be to stay fit and surprisingly he has done that. He has scored three goals in 13 starts from midfield. And he is only 23. But he hasn't really taken his chance if you ask me. I would prefer neat and tidy midfield performances rather than sloppy, wasteful ones with the odd goal thrown in. There is still probably a month until Denilson even gets back to training so Diaby still has a chance to cement a place in the first team. I find Abou the most frustrating member of the squad. He can show some lovely touches on the ball, great turns and nice moments but then dwindle on the ball on the edge of our box and give the ball away. Hopefully more minutes on the pitch can erase these lapses.
Wenger gives an interesting interview here to CNN.
And that's about it. I'll be back tomorrow, hopefully with Arsenal through to the Champions League last 16. Enjoy the game.
Tonight we face AZ in the Champions League and victory here would pretty much wrap up our qualification for the next stage. Going on previous encounters with Ronald Koeman's teams I wouldn't expect a high scoring affair, but let's just hope we get the points which will take the pressure off for the last two games.
I know I keep banging on about injuries and luck with injuries but with a squad as thin as ours in key positions our success this season will depend massively on our luck in this department. So it is slightly worrying that we are back up to nine on the injury front after it seemed to be easing. Gael Clichy is out for at least a month with a back injury, but knowing Arsenal I would be surprised to see him before Christmas. No major headaches there as Gibbs is a more than capable deputy and I think it will be good to give him a run in the team where he can hopefully show Clichy that he has a fight on his hands for the left back spot. Also Traore is due back any day now from the groin strain he has been suffering with.
Slightly more worrying is the injury to Bendtner. Not only is it a recurrence of the injury that kept him out recently but it leaves us slightly short of options in attack, especially in games where we need a bit more of a physical presence among our forwards. RvP is in fine form at the moment but alternatives to him in the central striker role are Eduardo and...that's it really. Walcott and Vela are also injured so we must hope that RvP stays healthy and in top form.
It says much about RvP's transformation that he is now considered one of our most important players. Obviously Cesc would also fall into this category but more surprising is the fact that even with a fully fit squad I am not sure we could cope without Alex Song. His form has improved dramatically in the past year or two and he was immense on Saturday. With Cameroon qualifying for the African Cup of Nations we will have to do without him for most of January and goodness knows how. Perhaps Wenger will dust off the chequebook.
The other area where we are vulnerable in the event of any injuries is the centre of defence. Tommy V and Gallas have been superb so far this season and the cover for them is not good. I'm not sure who would be first up but either way it is not a nice thought.
Anyway enough about injuries, what else is happening?
Abou Diaby, who had a bit of a torrid time on Saturday despite the great result, speaks on Arsenal.com here and here.
One of the few negatives from Saturday, his performance was a major disappointment. But as I said earlier in the season, one of his targets will be to stay fit and surprisingly he has done that. He has scored three goals in 13 starts from midfield. And he is only 23. But he hasn't really taken his chance if you ask me. I would prefer neat and tidy midfield performances rather than sloppy, wasteful ones with the odd goal thrown in. There is still probably a month until Denilson even gets back to training so Diaby still has a chance to cement a place in the first team. I find Abou the most frustrating member of the squad. He can show some lovely touches on the ball, great turns and nice moments but then dwindle on the ball on the edge of our box and give the ball away. Hopefully more minutes on the pitch can erase these lapses.
Wenger gives an interesting interview here to CNN.
And that's about it. I'll be back tomorrow, hopefully with Arsenal through to the Champions League last 16. Enjoy the game.
Monday, 19 October 2009
Arsenal Squad Announced - Injury List Growing
The squad for Tuesday's Champions League game at AZ Alkmaar has just been named and here it is:
Vito Mannone, Manuel Almunia, Carlos Vela, Robin van Persie, William Gallas, Bacary Sagna, Kieran Gibbs, Thomas Vermaelen, Mikael Silvestre, Gael Clichy, Andrey Arshavin, Fran Merida, Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey, Cesc Fabregas, Emmanuel Eboue, Abou Diaby, Alex Song.
Theo Walcott is out after the tough challenge from Ridgewell on Saturday but it's not been revealed how long he will be out for. Worryingly Tomas Rosicky is also out. Again no further news. Let's hope they are both short term and are back soon.
They join Nicklas Bendtner, Denilson, Eduardo, Lukasz Fabianski and Johan Djourou on the injury list. The worst seemed to be over on this front but we are in danger of being overwhelmed with injuries once again. We seem especially hard hit in attacking positions. If RvP gets injured who exactly is going to play there from the squad above?
I said early on this season that much could depend on our luck with injuries and while you could say that about any team I don't think any of the "big four" in England have as much of a gap between their first 11 and say the next 7 or 8 players as we do. That is partly as some of our first 11 are performing fantastically well (RvP, Cesc, Arshavin, Gallas and Vermaelen) and it's pretty hard to have players to just step in and continue that from the bench.
Despite this, the squad above should be strong enough to at least scratch out a draw tomorrow and take us one point closer to qualification. Hopefully some of the injured will be back by Sunday and the injuries won't drag on forever as some of ours tend to. I hope we are not talking about "if only" and "what if" at the end of the season with injuries robbing us of crucial players at important times of the season.
We've got some big games coming up so we really need to keep the good run we are on going.
And finally, here is something that made me chuckle from Wenger's post match email:
Alex Song was strong and smooth in his defensive midfield role. He is not rigid, he is agile. He is a slalom player and is not a straight-line player. He uses that very well, he has a good combination of strengths and agility and I believe as well he uses his technique in a very intelligent way. He likes a tackle. Cameroon people are strong - in Africa they call them the Germans of Africa because of their strong bodies.
Strong and smooth? He sounds like a pint of bitter. Also amusing to see that national stereotypes are used in other continents too. I wonder who the French of Africa are?
Vito Mannone, Manuel Almunia, Carlos Vela, Robin van Persie, William Gallas, Bacary Sagna, Kieran Gibbs, Thomas Vermaelen, Mikael Silvestre, Gael Clichy, Andrey Arshavin, Fran Merida, Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey, Cesc Fabregas, Emmanuel Eboue, Abou Diaby, Alex Song.
Theo Walcott is out after the tough challenge from Ridgewell on Saturday but it's not been revealed how long he will be out for. Worryingly Tomas Rosicky is also out. Again no further news. Let's hope they are both short term and are back soon.
They join Nicklas Bendtner, Denilson, Eduardo, Lukasz Fabianski and Johan Djourou on the injury list. The worst seemed to be over on this front but we are in danger of being overwhelmed with injuries once again. We seem especially hard hit in attacking positions. If RvP gets injured who exactly is going to play there from the squad above?
I said early on this season that much could depend on our luck with injuries and while you could say that about any team I don't think any of the "big four" in England have as much of a gap between their first 11 and say the next 7 or 8 players as we do. That is partly as some of our first 11 are performing fantastically well (RvP, Cesc, Arshavin, Gallas and Vermaelen) and it's pretty hard to have players to just step in and continue that from the bench.
Despite this, the squad above should be strong enough to at least scratch out a draw tomorrow and take us one point closer to qualification. Hopefully some of the injured will be back by Sunday and the injuries won't drag on forever as some of ours tend to. I hope we are not talking about "if only" and "what if" at the end of the season with injuries robbing us of crucial players at important times of the season.
We've got some big games coming up so we really need to keep the good run we are on going.
And finally, here is something that made me chuckle from Wenger's post match email:
Alex Song was strong and smooth in his defensive midfield role. He is not rigid, he is agile. He is a slalom player and is not a straight-line player. He uses that very well, he has a good combination of strengths and agility and I believe as well he uses his technique in a very intelligent way. He likes a tackle. Cameroon people are strong - in Africa they call them the Germans of Africa because of their strong bodies.
Strong and smooth? He sounds like a pint of bitter. Also amusing to see that national stereotypes are used in other continents too. I wonder who the French of Africa are?
Sunday, 18 October 2009
Arsenal 3 -1 Birmingham, 3 More Points, 3 More Goals
Another three points, another three goals and another dodgy goal conceeded. Business as usual at the Emirates yesterday saw Arsenal move up to fourth, at least until Man City play later today.
With Chelsea having lost earlier in the day it was a chance to make up some ground and after Man United beat Bolton and leapfrogged Chelsea we are now four points off the top with a game in hand.
Mannone kept his place in goal, Gibbs replaced the injured Clichy, Eboue was at right back for Sagna and Walcott came in for Arshavin. All the rest of the team was as usual.
Walcott's return didn't last long after a crunching tackle early on from Ridgewell. More firm than dirty though. He lasted until the 33rd minute when we were 2-0 up but it doesn't look good for the midweek game.
Theo actually looked like he may be fine, he came back on after the tackle and forced a save from a cross/shot from the right which was dipping under the bar. However it didn't take long though for Arsenal to take the lead.
Song picked up a loose clearance and played a very Cesc-like ball inbetween defenders to RvP who is took it into his stride with one touch, teed it up with another and finished excellently across the goalkeeper into the far corner. He is really growing into the main striker role and this was his fourth goal in four appearances for him.
Two minutes later Rosicky and Eboue combined well down the right, Rosicky slid a cross low into the box which missed everyone until it got to Diaby at the back post who finished neatly for his third league goal of the season. Despite the level of some of his performaces not being totally up to scratch that is a decent return for this stage of the season.
Time for Arsenal's customary wobble. After 38 minutes a throw from the right led to a cross which Diaby headed up into the air, Mannone came and flapped under pressure from Larsson, it fell to Bowyer who smashed it in. Mannone may complain that the defence were too deep, that Gibbs didn't really go for the dropping ball and most of all he may have had a case that Larsson bumped him, especially considering how much protection goalkeepers usually get. But the I like to see goalkeepers come for high balls and take everything in their way and that is what was needed here.
The second half was a little nervy and Birmingham had a great chance to level. A low cross from the left, with Sagna nowhere to be seen, seemed to be heading to one of their players but Mannone clawed it away for Gallas to clearu. I do worry about Sagna's concentration at times and he and Clichy both need to raise their games as they have been disapointing this season.
Arsenal did have chances too though, including hitting the bar from a free kick which was awarded for a back pass which was picked up. We also forced a few saves from Hart, before Arshavin made it safe.
Cesc was given the ball by Mannone on the edge of our box, he ran to the edge of their box, fed the little Russian who cut in from the left and passed it into the far corner with a finish that Henry would have been proud of. They made us wait 85 minutes but the points were finally safe.
We almost immediately made it four when Diaby forced an excellent save from Hart after a cross from Eboue. 3-1 it finished and another three points maintains our 100% home record.
Overall I am pleased with the result more than the performance. After we went to 2-0 we seemed to stop playing a little and I would have liked to see us kill the game. Some of our defending was slack and we could have found ourselves level but for a nice bit of goalkeeping from Mannone.
It's hard to be too critical though. We scored three against a team that had only conceeded eight in eight games before yesterday. We looked bright and inventive going forward and RvP, Cesc and Arshavin are in fine form. Song is really growing into the role and Diaby probably had his best game of the season so far. There are still problems but I am in no doubt we are stronger than last season. We look much more solid at the back and in midfield and dangerous going forward.
With Chelsea having lost two and Liverpool four I think it is certain that the big teams and the eventual champions will lose more than in recent seasons. I also think this season will see the biggest challenge to the "big four" domination since we started to think of them as the "big four."
On a side note the "Arsenalisation" continues and there are some fabulous pictures of it all here about half way down the page.
Enjoy your Sunday.
With Chelsea having lost earlier in the day it was a chance to make up some ground and after Man United beat Bolton and leapfrogged Chelsea we are now four points off the top with a game in hand.
Mannone kept his place in goal, Gibbs replaced the injured Clichy, Eboue was at right back for Sagna and Walcott came in for Arshavin. All the rest of the team was as usual.
Walcott's return didn't last long after a crunching tackle early on from Ridgewell. More firm than dirty though. He lasted until the 33rd minute when we were 2-0 up but it doesn't look good for the midweek game.
Theo actually looked like he may be fine, he came back on after the tackle and forced a save from a cross/shot from the right which was dipping under the bar. However it didn't take long though for Arsenal to take the lead.
Song picked up a loose clearance and played a very Cesc-like ball inbetween defenders to RvP who is took it into his stride with one touch, teed it up with another and finished excellently across the goalkeeper into the far corner. He is really growing into the main striker role and this was his fourth goal in four appearances for him.
Two minutes later Rosicky and Eboue combined well down the right, Rosicky slid a cross low into the box which missed everyone until it got to Diaby at the back post who finished neatly for his third league goal of the season. Despite the level of some of his performaces not being totally up to scratch that is a decent return for this stage of the season.
Time for Arsenal's customary wobble. After 38 minutes a throw from the right led to a cross which Diaby headed up into the air, Mannone came and flapped under pressure from Larsson, it fell to Bowyer who smashed it in. Mannone may complain that the defence were too deep, that Gibbs didn't really go for the dropping ball and most of all he may have had a case that Larsson bumped him, especially considering how much protection goalkeepers usually get. But the I like to see goalkeepers come for high balls and take everything in their way and that is what was needed here.
The second half was a little nervy and Birmingham had a great chance to level. A low cross from the left, with Sagna nowhere to be seen, seemed to be heading to one of their players but Mannone clawed it away for Gallas to clearu. I do worry about Sagna's concentration at times and he and Clichy both need to raise their games as they have been disapointing this season.
Arsenal did have chances too though, including hitting the bar from a free kick which was awarded for a back pass which was picked up. We also forced a few saves from Hart, before Arshavin made it safe.
Cesc was given the ball by Mannone on the edge of our box, he ran to the edge of their box, fed the little Russian who cut in from the left and passed it into the far corner with a finish that Henry would have been proud of. They made us wait 85 minutes but the points were finally safe.
We almost immediately made it four when Diaby forced an excellent save from Hart after a cross from Eboue. 3-1 it finished and another three points maintains our 100% home record.
Overall I am pleased with the result more than the performance. After we went to 2-0 we seemed to stop playing a little and I would have liked to see us kill the game. Some of our defending was slack and we could have found ourselves level but for a nice bit of goalkeeping from Mannone.
It's hard to be too critical though. We scored three against a team that had only conceeded eight in eight games before yesterday. We looked bright and inventive going forward and RvP, Cesc and Arshavin are in fine form. Song is really growing into the role and Diaby probably had his best game of the season so far. There are still problems but I am in no doubt we are stronger than last season. We look much more solid at the back and in midfield and dangerous going forward.
With Chelsea having lost two and Liverpool four I think it is certain that the big teams and the eventual champions will lose more than in recent seasons. I also think this season will see the biggest challenge to the "big four" domination since we started to think of them as the "big four."
On a side note the "Arsenalisation" continues and there are some fabulous pictures of it all here about half way down the page.
Enjoy your Sunday.
Tuesday, 6 October 2009
A Whole Lot Of Nothing
There are 11 days until the next Arsenal game with nothing to distract us apart from boring internationals and the chance to look back over the season so far and, in the coming days, look ahead to the next batch of games we face.
Going back to Sunday again and a point that was made by Lee Dixon on Match Of The Day 2 and here:
"Some of the passing and movement was as good as I have seen from any team in a long time. It was breathtaking stuff at times and a pleasure to watch.
But being ultra critical, a question mark against their defending that reared its ugly head again. They are such a forward-thinking team they even get themselves in trouble from their own shots.
Blackburn's second goal was a perfect example. Both their full-backs went forward at the same time and it led to them falling behind 2-1. Bacary Sagna went to close down the ball on the right-hand side of Blackburn's box, while Gael Clichy was also in a forward position on the other flank.
El-Hadji Diouf cleared and Blackburn suddenly had a 3-versus-2, with Arsenal defenders Thomas Vermaelen and William Gallas the only players between the ball and the goal. Chelsea push both full-backs forward at the same time, but they are able to do this as Michael Essien drops back from midfield to make up the numbers. In this situation he would have made it a 3 v 3. Arsenal's holding midfielder Alex Song is not Michael Essien but he has similar qualities. He has the physique, is strong, quick, gets around the pitch, breaks opponent's attacks down and he can tackle.
I like Song a lot but he is still young and learning that role. He wants to attack but he needs to learn quickly there are times when he has to rein himself in. The Gunners need to be a bit more savvy and stop giving goals away to these teams."
It’s a fair point and I mentioned it yesterday. Most teams will not be so generous in giving up a lead twice and if Arsenal defend like that against some of the bigger teams it will be a disaster.
I do think the only area where Song is lacking is that he is just a little too slow in that position. Watching some of the top defensive midfielders around they seem to have a sixth sense in sniffing out danger and are capable of popping up everywhere on the pitch and at times Song seems a bit sluggish. Perhaps his positioning will improve with experience.
I do rate Song but he’s about a seven or eight out of ten in that position, the way we play we need a ten. But then it comes back to who is out there that is a ten, are they available and can we afford them?
Maybe I’m just feeling nostalgic as I finished Vieira’s autobiography yesterday and I wonder if we will see him back in January, especially as Song is probably off to the African Nations. Not suggesting that Vieira is still a ten in that position but it would give everyone a massive boost. I certainly hope it’s not Chelsea as lazily suggested in some papers today, after Vieira was spotted at Stamford Bridge on Sunday watching their game against Liverpool game.
The players are obviously still getting used to the new formation but there are a few members of the squad who it should suit down to the ground. It seems like we have quite a few players who are not quite wingers and not quite forwards so the 4-3-3 should be perfect for them. One of these is Theo Walcott and he says:
“I think this formation gives you more license to go forward so I should be among the goals a bit more this year.”
Theo, Arshavin, Rosicky are all probably are more suited to this formation than a straight 4-4-2 and it’s probably no coincidence that we have had 15 different scorers this season. Also the centre of midfield looks much more comfortable with three of them in there than just two. If we could just get the defensive side sorted we would be deadly, but then again isn’t that always the case?
It's just been announced that Theo has been called up to the England Under-21s. Makes sense I guess, he's fit and needs match practice. Let's just hope he returns fit.
For a touch more nostalgia, check out these pictures of Thierry Henry's visit on Sunday. 226 goals in 370 games. Legend.
Going back to Sunday again and a point that was made by Lee Dixon on Match Of The Day 2 and here:
"Some of the passing and movement was as good as I have seen from any team in a long time. It was breathtaking stuff at times and a pleasure to watch.
But being ultra critical, a question mark against their defending that reared its ugly head again. They are such a forward-thinking team they even get themselves in trouble from their own shots.
Blackburn's second goal was a perfect example. Both their full-backs went forward at the same time and it led to them falling behind 2-1. Bacary Sagna went to close down the ball on the right-hand side of Blackburn's box, while Gael Clichy was also in a forward position on the other flank.
El-Hadji Diouf cleared and Blackburn suddenly had a 3-versus-2, with Arsenal defenders Thomas Vermaelen and William Gallas the only players between the ball and the goal. Chelsea push both full-backs forward at the same time, but they are able to do this as Michael Essien drops back from midfield to make up the numbers. In this situation he would have made it a 3 v 3. Arsenal's holding midfielder Alex Song is not Michael Essien but he has similar qualities. He has the physique, is strong, quick, gets around the pitch, breaks opponent's attacks down and he can tackle.
I like Song a lot but he is still young and learning that role. He wants to attack but he needs to learn quickly there are times when he has to rein himself in. The Gunners need to be a bit more savvy and stop giving goals away to these teams."
It’s a fair point and I mentioned it yesterday. Most teams will not be so generous in giving up a lead twice and if Arsenal defend like that against some of the bigger teams it will be a disaster.
I do think the only area where Song is lacking is that he is just a little too slow in that position. Watching some of the top defensive midfielders around they seem to have a sixth sense in sniffing out danger and are capable of popping up everywhere on the pitch and at times Song seems a bit sluggish. Perhaps his positioning will improve with experience.
I do rate Song but he’s about a seven or eight out of ten in that position, the way we play we need a ten. But then it comes back to who is out there that is a ten, are they available and can we afford them?
Maybe I’m just feeling nostalgic as I finished Vieira’s autobiography yesterday and I wonder if we will see him back in January, especially as Song is probably off to the African Nations. Not suggesting that Vieira is still a ten in that position but it would give everyone a massive boost. I certainly hope it’s not Chelsea as lazily suggested in some papers today, after Vieira was spotted at Stamford Bridge on Sunday watching their game against Liverpool game.
The players are obviously still getting used to the new formation but there are a few members of the squad who it should suit down to the ground. It seems like we have quite a few players who are not quite wingers and not quite forwards so the 4-3-3 should be perfect for them. One of these is Theo Walcott and he says:
“I think this formation gives you more license to go forward so I should be among the goals a bit more this year.”
Theo, Arshavin, Rosicky are all probably are more suited to this formation than a straight 4-4-2 and it’s probably no coincidence that we have had 15 different scorers this season. Also the centre of midfield looks much more comfortable with three of them in there than just two. If we could just get the defensive side sorted we would be deadly, but then again isn’t that always the case?
It's just been announced that Theo has been called up to the England Under-21s. Makes sense I guess, he's fit and needs match practice. Let's just hope he returns fit.
For a touch more nostalgia, check out these pictures of Thierry Henry's visit on Sunday. 226 goals in 370 games. Legend.
Monday, 5 October 2009
Arsenal 6-2 Blackburn: Cesc On Fire
It was appropriate that Thierry Henry was in the crowd for this game as it was probably the Frenchman who was the last Arsenal player to single-handedly destroy an opposition team in the way Cesc Fabregas did in this game. The young Spaniard was in sublime form and it’s a shame he goes away for Spain for two weeks now and doesn’t get a chance to show more of this form in the red of Arsenal.
First the goals, which you have probably seen, but if not hereyou go.
Blackburn’s first (from the type of massive punt by Robinson which Sam Allardyce has made a career out of) was a looping header from someone called Steven Nzonzi who was so tall he looked like he should be playing in the N.B.A. The defence was very deep but Mannone will be disappointed with both his failure to come for the ball and his positioning. That said it was a perfect looping header and Vito was slightly unlucky to be caught out, as demonstrated when Cesc’s header, almost immediately after their goal, lobbed Robinson but cannoned back off the bar.
Arsenal weren’t to be denied though and top scorer Thomas Vermaelen added to his tally this season with a thumping drive from outside the box to bring us level after a cutback from Cesc. The Belgian striker has made a great start to his career at Arsenal, especially since he is being asked to play out of position at centre back. Jokes aside, I’m not sure I have seen a centre back with a better shot or more confidence to shoot than Tommy V. It’s remarkable, not just the number of goals but the type he is scoring.
Still, Arsenal being Arsenal they weren’t content to now sit tight and slowly turn the screw and be patient to find a goal against Blackburn, they thought they would make it interesting and pile forward. So when a simple long ball from Diouf seemed to bypass almost everyone and leave them two on two, Song decided to chase the ball despite Vermaelen being close, a simple ball found Dunn, Gallas allowed him to cut inside onto his right foot and Blackburn took the lead again with the help of a massive deflection.
Then the Cesc Fabregas show began. Two minutes after Blackburn took the lead, Cesc played a delightful throughball for RvP who finished with a low, hard strike across goal. 2-2. Cesc then played an almost identical ball for Arshavin who produced an almost identical finish. 3-2. Rosicky then produced a superb outside of the boot cross for Fabregas, which the keeper saved and the defender blocked the follow up. Could have easily been four.
Arsenal didn’t have to wait long to get their fourth and Fabregas got his reward for a wonderful afternoon’s work. Fabregas tried to play it to Rosicky, the ball hit the defender and bounced up, Rosicky hit it over his own head back to Fabregas who chested it down and guided it into the top corner on the volley. He then ran to the corner to celebrate with the Arsenal fans and kissed his badge like he bloody meant it. I know players do this all the time and Fabregas may leave one day but at that moment, I truly believe he meant it. He looked all serious and everything.
Walcott had been on for Rosicky for hardly any time at all for his first appearance of the season when he made it 5-2. Fabregas started the move with a little poked pass to Arshavin who ran about 60 yards before giving it back to Cesc who nudged it on to Walcott for him to finish with another nice low drive. Bendtner came on and made it 6-2 with a fantastic right-foot drive from outside the box which clipped the inside of the post and went in.
Song should have scored from a header and Gallas may have had a penalty. Blackburn should definitely have had a penalty, hit the post and also forced Mannone into a great save but I don’t think anything was going to stop Arsenal. We were behind twice after all. The defending needs to be worked on, we did still let in two, but when the attacking play is as good as this it feels ungrateful to moan about the defence.
Fabregas was in top form, Arshavin finally seems to be getting back to his best, RvP looks like he is growing into the lone striker role with three goals in his last three games. Rosicky looks better with every passing game and Vermaelen is one of the signings of the summer. Loads to be positive about, but probably some to worry about too. But we have almost two weeks until the next game so there is plenty of time to talk about that.
And just one more point, I can’t take the credit for the shocking pun in the headline, I did steal it from here.
First the goals, which you have probably seen, but if not hereyou go.
Blackburn’s first (from the type of massive punt by Robinson which Sam Allardyce has made a career out of) was a looping header from someone called Steven Nzonzi who was so tall he looked like he should be playing in the N.B.A. The defence was very deep but Mannone will be disappointed with both his failure to come for the ball and his positioning. That said it was a perfect looping header and Vito was slightly unlucky to be caught out, as demonstrated when Cesc’s header, almost immediately after their goal, lobbed Robinson but cannoned back off the bar.
Arsenal weren’t to be denied though and top scorer Thomas Vermaelen added to his tally this season with a thumping drive from outside the box to bring us level after a cutback from Cesc. The Belgian striker has made a great start to his career at Arsenal, especially since he is being asked to play out of position at centre back. Jokes aside, I’m not sure I have seen a centre back with a better shot or more confidence to shoot than Tommy V. It’s remarkable, not just the number of goals but the type he is scoring.
Still, Arsenal being Arsenal they weren’t content to now sit tight and slowly turn the screw and be patient to find a goal against Blackburn, they thought they would make it interesting and pile forward. So when a simple long ball from Diouf seemed to bypass almost everyone and leave them two on two, Song decided to chase the ball despite Vermaelen being close, a simple ball found Dunn, Gallas allowed him to cut inside onto his right foot and Blackburn took the lead again with the help of a massive deflection.
Then the Cesc Fabregas show began. Two minutes after Blackburn took the lead, Cesc played a delightful throughball for RvP who finished with a low, hard strike across goal. 2-2. Cesc then played an almost identical ball for Arshavin who produced an almost identical finish. 3-2. Rosicky then produced a superb outside of the boot cross for Fabregas, which the keeper saved and the defender blocked the follow up. Could have easily been four.
Arsenal didn’t have to wait long to get their fourth and Fabregas got his reward for a wonderful afternoon’s work. Fabregas tried to play it to Rosicky, the ball hit the defender and bounced up, Rosicky hit it over his own head back to Fabregas who chested it down and guided it into the top corner on the volley. He then ran to the corner to celebrate with the Arsenal fans and kissed his badge like he bloody meant it. I know players do this all the time and Fabregas may leave one day but at that moment, I truly believe he meant it. He looked all serious and everything.
Walcott had been on for Rosicky for hardly any time at all for his first appearance of the season when he made it 5-2. Fabregas started the move with a little poked pass to Arshavin who ran about 60 yards before giving it back to Cesc who nudged it on to Walcott for him to finish with another nice low drive. Bendtner came on and made it 6-2 with a fantastic right-foot drive from outside the box which clipped the inside of the post and went in.
Song should have scored from a header and Gallas may have had a penalty. Blackburn should definitely have had a penalty, hit the post and also forced Mannone into a great save but I don’t think anything was going to stop Arsenal. We were behind twice after all. The defending needs to be worked on, we did still let in two, but when the attacking play is as good as this it feels ungrateful to moan about the defence.
Fabregas was in top form, Arshavin finally seems to be getting back to his best, RvP looks like he is growing into the lone striker role with three goals in his last three games. Rosicky looks better with every passing game and Vermaelen is one of the signings of the summer. Loads to be positive about, but probably some to worry about too. But we have almost two weeks until the next game so there is plenty of time to talk about that.
And just one more point, I can’t take the credit for the shocking pun in the headline, I did steal it from here.
Friday, 2 October 2009
Arsenal Vs Blackburn Preview
Arsenal play Blackburn this weekend in the last game before the international break and hopefully we can end this little block of matches with a victory.
Manuel Almunia is back in training and close to returning but not quite ready for a first team return so Vito Mannone will continue in goal this weekend. The young man has been excellent so far and I just hope he can end his little spell in the first team positively with another good performance and a clean sheet.
Theo Walcott and Nicklas Bendtner are both expected to be back in the squad but Eduardo is missing. He aggravated a thigh muscle injury the other day against Olympiacos.
I expect Sagna to replace Eboue and I think we may actually see an unchanged side with the exception of that.
Two things I will be hoping for on Sunday which have been slightly missing from recent games despite the good results. The width of the team is an issue that needs to be addressed. On Tuesday it wasn’t until Vela came on that we actually played with some width. A problem with this formation is that it is very narrow and we have many players who are more comfortable playing through the middle. I don’t know if the manager wants the full backs, or Diaby and Fabregas or the two wide forwards to provide the width but something must be done to use the width of the pitch to give us an alternative option now and then.
The other problem is something I have touched on in the past, and that is the work rate of the team and the work rate that is required when using this formation. We started the season well in this respect but in a few games recently, and especially against Man City, we have fallen below what is required for this system to work. Again I think the main problem is in the wide areas, namely covering for the full backs. If the full backs are encouraged to attack then adequate cover needs to be provided when they inevitably are caught out of position. Whether this is provided by the midfield or the wide forwards is up to the manager but something needs to be done.
We all know how Blackburn will play, just like all Sam Allardyce’s teams over the years, with ugly, physical, aggressive football so we will need to be up for a scrap to get the three points. Hopefully RvP can continue his little run of scoring and we can put our feet up over the international break with another three points in the bag.
Manuel Almunia is back in training and close to returning but not quite ready for a first team return so Vito Mannone will continue in goal this weekend. The young man has been excellent so far and I just hope he can end his little spell in the first team positively with another good performance and a clean sheet.
Theo Walcott and Nicklas Bendtner are both expected to be back in the squad but Eduardo is missing. He aggravated a thigh muscle injury the other day against Olympiacos.
I expect Sagna to replace Eboue and I think we may actually see an unchanged side with the exception of that.
Two things I will be hoping for on Sunday which have been slightly missing from recent games despite the good results. The width of the team is an issue that needs to be addressed. On Tuesday it wasn’t until Vela came on that we actually played with some width. A problem with this formation is that it is very narrow and we have many players who are more comfortable playing through the middle. I don’t know if the manager wants the full backs, or Diaby and Fabregas or the two wide forwards to provide the width but something must be done to use the width of the pitch to give us an alternative option now and then.
The other problem is something I have touched on in the past, and that is the work rate of the team and the work rate that is required when using this formation. We started the season well in this respect but in a few games recently, and especially against Man City, we have fallen below what is required for this system to work. Again I think the main problem is in the wide areas, namely covering for the full backs. If the full backs are encouraged to attack then adequate cover needs to be provided when they inevitably are caught out of position. Whether this is provided by the midfield or the wide forwards is up to the manager but something needs to be done.
We all know how Blackburn will play, just like all Sam Allardyce’s teams over the years, with ugly, physical, aggressive football so we will need to be up for a scrap to get the three points. Hopefully RvP can continue his little run of scoring and we can put our feet up over the international break with another three points in the bag.
Thursday, 1 October 2009
Thank You Arsene Wenger
I did originally say yesterday that I would have a look at Arsenal’s financial results today but that can wait. Arsene Wenger today celebrates 13 years as Arsenal manager, making him Arsenal’s longest serving manager.
There is enough coverage of Wenger’s time at Arsenal floating around (including a great overview on Arsenal.com) so it is hard to know what to add. I guess thanks would be appropriate.
Thanks for all the trophies. Thanks for all the wonderful football. Thanks for all the great players. Thanks for Vieira, for Henry, for Bergkamp, for Pires. Thanks for moments like this. Thanks for making “play the Arsenal way” mean something. Thanks for the new stadium and thanks for the great memories at Highbury. Thanks for the unbeaten season. Thanks for the title won at Highbury, the title won at Old Trafford and the one at White Hart Lane. Thanks for trying to build a team in an age of instant success and financial irresponsibility.
I hope Wenger can deliver one more big trophy. His legacy deserves it.
Thank You Arsene Wenger.
There is enough coverage of Wenger’s time at Arsenal floating around (including a great overview on Arsenal.com) so it is hard to know what to add. I guess thanks would be appropriate.
Thanks for all the trophies. Thanks for all the wonderful football. Thanks for all the great players. Thanks for Vieira, for Henry, for Bergkamp, for Pires. Thanks for moments like this. Thanks for making “play the Arsenal way” mean something. Thanks for the new stadium and thanks for the great memories at Highbury. Thanks for the unbeaten season. Thanks for the title won at Highbury, the title won at Old Trafford and the one at White Hart Lane. Thanks for trying to build a team in an age of instant success and financial irresponsibility.
I hope Wenger can deliver one more big trophy. His legacy deserves it.
Thank You Arsene Wenger.
Wednesday, 30 September 2009
Arsenal 2-0 Olympiacos, Patience Pays Off
Arsenal were made to wait last night but their patience and persistence finally paid off and they got the breakthrough they deserved to claim their second victory in the Champions League group stage this season.
There are two ways to look at last night's game. You could say we played very well, created loads of chances and were unlucky to not score earlier. Or you could say we were wasteful against a dreadful, negative Olympiacos who came with pretty much no intention of attacking. I am leaning towards the first option even though the second point must not be totally dismissed.
Arsene again surprised with the team selection. Rosicky started his second game of the season ahead of Eduardo but more surprising Eboue started at right back in place of Sagna. I don't know if Sagna is carrying an injury or if there is another reason why Eboue has started both Champions League group games but it's a strange one.
Anyway, Arsenal started the first half brightly and it looked like a matter of time before the goal came. Fabregas rocked the crossbar with a shot from the edge of the box, Rosicky forced a save with the rebound, Arshavin showed quick feet and nearly fooled the goalkeeper at the near post but Olympiacos made it to half time with the score at 0-0.
In the second half, as is often the case in games as one way as this, the team under pressure nearly scored. Olympiacos swung a corner in from the left, Mellberg (remember him) got on the end of it and Mannone carried on where he left off on Saturday with a fantastic save. The ball seemed to be past him but he clawed it back. It would have been a massive injustice.
Eduardo came on for the bright Rosicky, Vela replaced the disappointing Diaby and finally the goal came. Fabregas slipped in Eduardo who cut it back for RvP to notch his second goal in two games. Ramsey came on for RvP to try and tighten things up and a minute later he fed the ball wide to Fabregas who slid it across to the clearly offside Arshavin who produced a lovely back heel to make it 2-0. It was obvious it was offside even for those inside the stadium. The stadium TV failed to show the replay from a side view as that would clearly show he was offside, to avoid upsetting the Greek players and fans. But that is the luck you need sometimes and no less than Arsenal deserved after dominating all night.
It's strange, we used to face teams playing in this way every week when we were at the top of our game a few years ago but it has been a while since i've seen such a negative performance. At one stage they had all 11 men in our half and were pretty much just returning the ball to us whenever they got it. Still, you can only beat what is in front of you and that is what Arsenal did. The (fans and players) remained patient, the team kept playing their game, didn't panic or get frustrated and got their reward in the end. It was satisfying in the end but would have been a very frustrating night had it stayed 0-0.
Fabregas looked bright, Rosicky was full of nice touches and RvP will be pleased to score again. Let's hope he can keep the goals coming. Song was excellent in getting the ball and moving it quickly which is what you want most from a player in that position in a game like this. Get it to the attacking players quickly.
Arshavin seemed to grow as the game went on but I can't shake the feeling that he isn't comfortable in his position. Perhaps he just needs a run of games. Mannone produced a very good save as mentioned above, but he and the rest of the defence had one of the easiest games they are likely to have this season.
Diaby was a little disappointing again. He would follow up one nice piece of skill with a misplaced pass, a nice run followed by a slip. He gives you the impression that he has the potential to be a good player but just never delivers. The expression flatters to deceive comes to mind.
Still the important thing is we won, we are three points clear in our group and one step closer to qualifying. And that is all that is important at this stage.
Tomorrow I will go through Arsenal's financial results that were announced earlier this week.
There are two ways to look at last night's game. You could say we played very well, created loads of chances and were unlucky to not score earlier. Or you could say we were wasteful against a dreadful, negative Olympiacos who came with pretty much no intention of attacking. I am leaning towards the first option even though the second point must not be totally dismissed.
Arsene again surprised with the team selection. Rosicky started his second game of the season ahead of Eduardo but more surprising Eboue started at right back in place of Sagna. I don't know if Sagna is carrying an injury or if there is another reason why Eboue has started both Champions League group games but it's a strange one.
Anyway, Arsenal started the first half brightly and it looked like a matter of time before the goal came. Fabregas rocked the crossbar with a shot from the edge of the box, Rosicky forced a save with the rebound, Arshavin showed quick feet and nearly fooled the goalkeeper at the near post but Olympiacos made it to half time with the score at 0-0.
In the second half, as is often the case in games as one way as this, the team under pressure nearly scored. Olympiacos swung a corner in from the left, Mellberg (remember him) got on the end of it and Mannone carried on where he left off on Saturday with a fantastic save. The ball seemed to be past him but he clawed it back. It would have been a massive injustice.
Eduardo came on for the bright Rosicky, Vela replaced the disappointing Diaby and finally the goal came. Fabregas slipped in Eduardo who cut it back for RvP to notch his second goal in two games. Ramsey came on for RvP to try and tighten things up and a minute later he fed the ball wide to Fabregas who slid it across to the clearly offside Arshavin who produced a lovely back heel to make it 2-0. It was obvious it was offside even for those inside the stadium. The stadium TV failed to show the replay from a side view as that would clearly show he was offside, to avoid upsetting the Greek players and fans. But that is the luck you need sometimes and no less than Arsenal deserved after dominating all night.
It's strange, we used to face teams playing in this way every week when we were at the top of our game a few years ago but it has been a while since i've seen such a negative performance. At one stage they had all 11 men in our half and were pretty much just returning the ball to us whenever they got it. Still, you can only beat what is in front of you and that is what Arsenal did. The (fans and players) remained patient, the team kept playing their game, didn't panic or get frustrated and got their reward in the end. It was satisfying in the end but would have been a very frustrating night had it stayed 0-0.
Fabregas looked bright, Rosicky was full of nice touches and RvP will be pleased to score again. Let's hope he can keep the goals coming. Song was excellent in getting the ball and moving it quickly which is what you want most from a player in that position in a game like this. Get it to the attacking players quickly.
Arshavin seemed to grow as the game went on but I can't shake the feeling that he isn't comfortable in his position. Perhaps he just needs a run of games. Mannone produced a very good save as mentioned above, but he and the rest of the defence had one of the easiest games they are likely to have this season.
Diaby was a little disappointing again. He would follow up one nice piece of skill with a misplaced pass, a nice run followed by a slip. He gives you the impression that he has the potential to be a good player but just never delivers. The expression flatters to deceive comes to mind.
Still the important thing is we won, we are three points clear in our group and one step closer to qualifying. And that is all that is important at this stage.
Tomorrow I will go through Arsenal's financial results that were announced earlier this week.
Tuesday, 29 September 2009
Arsenal Vs Olympiacos Preview
Tonight we play our first home Champions League group game of the season in which we face the Greek champions Olympiacos. Hopefully we can follow up the somewhat fortunate victory over Standard Liege in our first group game with a more accomplished performance, but most of all, another win.
First the team news, and unless he is planning to play two games in one day, it seems Theo Walcott is out after 60 minutes here despite hints yesterday he will be on the bench.
Eduardo is likely to be back in the squad after missing the Fulham game and Bendtner is out after his car crash, which you can see pictures of here along with a badly superimposed picture of Bendtner.
I this we will line up with Mannone, the same back four, Song, Cesc, Diaby, Arshavin, RvP and it's a toss up between Rosicky and Eduardo and I fancy he may just go for the slightly more attacking option in Eduardo since we are at home. I guess Rosicky may be a more natural fit on the right with Arshavin on the left but I just have a sneaky feeling he may go for Eduardo.
As I have said in the past though the line up is tough to predict with this formation but the injuries are making it easier.
I hope we don't rely on the young goalkeeper as much as we did on Saturday but his performance against Fulham was pleasing. It's also pleasing to have a regular, settled back four as I feel a defence improves the more they play with each other, but as I say, hopefully they can protect Mannone a bit more than they did against Fulham. Song and Cesc seem to have their place firmly wrapped up in central midfield but I hope they can be a little less wasteful than they have been at times this season. As for Diaby, well if he doesn't use the next two months to really push for a place in the team then he never will.
RvP has looked sharp this season even when he hasn't been scoring but hopefully he can add to Saturday's strike, because first and foremost strikers are on the pitch to score. Arshavin will hopefully recapture some of last season's stunning form but I can't shake the feeling that he isn't happy with his role in the team. I hope I am wrong. Whoever lines up with these two up front out of Rosicky and Eduardo will just be happy to be out there playing again.
I do think Olympiacos will be dangerous opponents but we should really have too much for them. Here's hoping for another three points to take us closer to qualification.
A little side note, Fran Merida got both goals for Spain in the under-20's World Cup.
Come On You Gunners.
First the team news, and unless he is planning to play two games in one day, it seems Theo Walcott is out after 60 minutes here despite hints yesterday he will be on the bench.
Eduardo is likely to be back in the squad after missing the Fulham game and Bendtner is out after his car crash, which you can see pictures of here along with a badly superimposed picture of Bendtner.
I this we will line up with Mannone, the same back four, Song, Cesc, Diaby, Arshavin, RvP and it's a toss up between Rosicky and Eduardo and I fancy he may just go for the slightly more attacking option in Eduardo since we are at home. I guess Rosicky may be a more natural fit on the right with Arshavin on the left but I just have a sneaky feeling he may go for Eduardo.
As I have said in the past though the line up is tough to predict with this formation but the injuries are making it easier.
I hope we don't rely on the young goalkeeper as much as we did on Saturday but his performance against Fulham was pleasing. It's also pleasing to have a regular, settled back four as I feel a defence improves the more they play with each other, but as I say, hopefully they can protect Mannone a bit more than they did against Fulham. Song and Cesc seem to have their place firmly wrapped up in central midfield but I hope they can be a little less wasteful than they have been at times this season. As for Diaby, well if he doesn't use the next two months to really push for a place in the team then he never will.
RvP has looked sharp this season even when he hasn't been scoring but hopefully he can add to Saturday's strike, because first and foremost strikers are on the pitch to score. Arshavin will hopefully recapture some of last season's stunning form but I can't shake the feeling that he isn't happy with his role in the team. I hope I am wrong. Whoever lines up with these two up front out of Rosicky and Eduardo will just be happy to be out there playing again.
I do think Olympiacos will be dangerous opponents but we should really have too much for them. Here's hoping for another three points to take us closer to qualification.
A little side note, Fran Merida got both goals for Spain in the under-20's World Cup.
Come On You Gunners.
Monday, 28 September 2009
Fulham 0-1 Arsenal, Profits Up, Injuries Up Too
Lots of news to get through so let me jump straight into the review of Saturday's game.
As I said on Friday we lost this game last year and after losing two games so far this year we couldn't afford any more defeats this early. We didn't start well on Saturday and young goalkeeper Vito Mannone was tested, producing one great double save in the first half and another which flashed across goal but he managed to keep out.
In the second half a great pass from a very below-par Fabregas set RvP through who controlled and shot excellently to put Arsenal 1-0 up despite not playing very well at all. We continued to face pressure after the goal and Mannone was again tested, this time by Zamora, and later Sagna deflected a shot onto the outside of the post.
Arsenal managed to hang on and I think it says it all about this game that Mannone was a thoroughly deserved man of the match. He was very busy and Arsenal were very lucky to escape with a point, never mind all three.
It's hard to know how to feel about Saturday's game. On the one hand teams need to know how to win when not playing well. It's one of the things Chelsea and Man Utd are praised for and Arsenal are accused of not being able to do. On the other hand we will rarely find our goalkeeper in such good form or the opposition so wasteful as they were on Saturday, so I wouldn't like to see us push our luck against a better team.
A few points to make following on from Saturday. Obviously the goalkeeper was excellent but despite all the chances I do feel the defence are improving. There was a moment when Fulham were attacking and Vermaelen saw Mannone racing off his line and he quickly pointed for him to get back into position. I liked that and it was good to see someone taking charge back there. Vermaelen is a natural leader and a natural defender, something we have lacked for a while.
The other point worth making is that we have 12 points from our first six games and that is exactly the same as our first 6 games last year but is four more points than we managed from the same fixtures last season. Some kind of progress I guess.
Arsenal announced their full year results today and there is a good video here with Gazidis speaking about them, including some interesting news on the Highbury Square development. I hope to go through these results in a bit more depth later in the week.
Finally, some injury news ahead of tomorrow's Champions League game with Olympiacos. Nicklas Bendtner is out after a minor car accident. Doesn't sound serious, just some bruising and the manager says he should be back for Sunday. Walcott is also short of match fitness so will not be in the squad tomorrow but Eduardo is back in the squad after missing out on Saturday.
Also Wenger has revealed today that Denilson is out for another two months after it was discovered he has a small fracture in his back. I don't know how we continue to collect injuries at this rate, and then see these injuries constantly extended in length. Either we are desperately unlucky or we are doing something badly wrong. We still have seven players from the first team squad out, assuming nobody else is added to that list tomorrow. More team news tomorrow, let's hope there is no more bad news.
As I said on Friday we lost this game last year and after losing two games so far this year we couldn't afford any more defeats this early. We didn't start well on Saturday and young goalkeeper Vito Mannone was tested, producing one great double save in the first half and another which flashed across goal but he managed to keep out.
In the second half a great pass from a very below-par Fabregas set RvP through who controlled and shot excellently to put Arsenal 1-0 up despite not playing very well at all. We continued to face pressure after the goal and Mannone was again tested, this time by Zamora, and later Sagna deflected a shot onto the outside of the post.
Arsenal managed to hang on and I think it says it all about this game that Mannone was a thoroughly deserved man of the match. He was very busy and Arsenal were very lucky to escape with a point, never mind all three.
It's hard to know how to feel about Saturday's game. On the one hand teams need to know how to win when not playing well. It's one of the things Chelsea and Man Utd are praised for and Arsenal are accused of not being able to do. On the other hand we will rarely find our goalkeeper in such good form or the opposition so wasteful as they were on Saturday, so I wouldn't like to see us push our luck against a better team.
A few points to make following on from Saturday. Obviously the goalkeeper was excellent but despite all the chances I do feel the defence are improving. There was a moment when Fulham were attacking and Vermaelen saw Mannone racing off his line and he quickly pointed for him to get back into position. I liked that and it was good to see someone taking charge back there. Vermaelen is a natural leader and a natural defender, something we have lacked for a while.
The other point worth making is that we have 12 points from our first six games and that is exactly the same as our first 6 games last year but is four more points than we managed from the same fixtures last season. Some kind of progress I guess.
Arsenal announced their full year results today and there is a good video here with Gazidis speaking about them, including some interesting news on the Highbury Square development. I hope to go through these results in a bit more depth later in the week.
Finally, some injury news ahead of tomorrow's Champions League game with Olympiacos. Nicklas Bendtner is out after a minor car accident. Doesn't sound serious, just some bruising and the manager says he should be back for Sunday. Walcott is also short of match fitness so will not be in the squad tomorrow but Eduardo is back in the squad after missing out on Saturday.
Also Wenger has revealed today that Denilson is out for another two months after it was discovered he has a small fracture in his back. I don't know how we continue to collect injuries at this rate, and then see these injuries constantly extended in length. Either we are desperately unlucky or we are doing something badly wrong. We still have seven players from the first team squad out, assuming nobody else is added to that list tomorrow. More team news tomorrow, let's hope there is no more bad news.
Friday, 25 September 2009
Fulham Vs Arsenal Preview
It's back to the Premier League tomorrow as Arsenal take on Fulham after the nice distraction of the Carling Cup in midweek. It's pleasing what Arsenal have done with the Carling Cup in recent years. Using it to give the youngsters experience and reducing ticket prices has turned it into a really positive PR exercise for the club. We find out tomorrow who Arsenal will face in the next round, with the draw taking place at midday.
Anyway, as I say it's back to Premier League action with a visit to Craven Cottage, where Arsenal lost 1-0 last year. Thinking back, that was a real toothless display and I remember at the time being concerned that not only did Arsenal lose but rarely threatened to score and that is very unlike Arsene Wenger's Arsenal. Defending has never been their strong point at times but one thing you can count on is that Arsenal will create chances.
One man who should help in this department is Andrey Arshavin who is back from injury and likely to play. He has had a quietish start to the season, apart from the rocket against United, but I think just his presence on the pitch makes a difference. He is versatile and has bags of creativity and is just the player to make this new formation work. I am hoping he comes back and looks as deadly as he did last season.
Theo Walcott is also back in training but it looks like it may be too soon for him to start so he may have to be content with a spot on the bench. Manuel Almunia is still out, that must have been some virus, so Mannone is likely to continue in goal. RvP faces a late fitness test but it sounds like he may be fit.
It will be interesting to see how the team takes shape as (when? if?) the injuries clear up. While Almunia, the current defence, Song and Cesc are certain to start, the other 4 spots are still possibly up for grabs. You would fancy RvP and Arshavin to be favourites, but then Diaby, Eboue, Bendtner, Walcott, Rosicky and Eduardo are all fighting for two spots without even mentioning the players who are still injured and the younger members of the squad.
Wenger had a word to say here about money he has to spend and the strength of the squad. I know he sometimes says these things to make the players believe in themselves but I don't think our squad is desperately short, it just needs tweaking. With regards to money to spend, and all the rubbish flying back and forth about Chamakh, well that isn't going to really make a difference until January so it's not even worth discussing.
As I say I think RvP and Arshavin will line up in attack tomorrow, with either Bendtner or Eduardo. I fancy Bendtner to start tomorrow, who had something to say this week about playing out wide:
"I think it is a short-term decision. I have spoken to the manager, obviously, and he explained why he's playing me there at the moment.
"He knows as well though that my position is to play up front as a striker. That's where I prefer personally, but if I have to do a job for the team and play on the right or the left sometimes then I'm happy to do that as well."
"I like to think that the reason I scored against Standard Liege has something to do with the fact I played more centrally.
"Obviously you are closer to the goal and because of my pace I can make those runs. You can use that more up front than you can on the right."
I have to agree. It just makes sense to have Bendtner up front and Arshavin and RvP either side doing all the creative stuff. Plus Bendtner looks a handful when he gets in the box and gives us a real physical presence.
That only really leaves one spot in the team for tomorrow and that's probably between Eboue and Diaby. It's been hard to predict the team so far this season but I wonder if he might just pick Eboue to try and keep things a little tighter than they would be with Diaby.
Hopefully we can pick up three points and get the season back on track.
Anyway, as I say it's back to Premier League action with a visit to Craven Cottage, where Arsenal lost 1-0 last year. Thinking back, that was a real toothless display and I remember at the time being concerned that not only did Arsenal lose but rarely threatened to score and that is very unlike Arsene Wenger's Arsenal. Defending has never been their strong point at times but one thing you can count on is that Arsenal will create chances.
One man who should help in this department is Andrey Arshavin who is back from injury and likely to play. He has had a quietish start to the season, apart from the rocket against United, but I think just his presence on the pitch makes a difference. He is versatile and has bags of creativity and is just the player to make this new formation work. I am hoping he comes back and looks as deadly as he did last season.
Theo Walcott is also back in training but it looks like it may be too soon for him to start so he may have to be content with a spot on the bench. Manuel Almunia is still out, that must have been some virus, so Mannone is likely to continue in goal. RvP faces a late fitness test but it sounds like he may be fit.
It will be interesting to see how the team takes shape as (when? if?) the injuries clear up. While Almunia, the current defence, Song and Cesc are certain to start, the other 4 spots are still possibly up for grabs. You would fancy RvP and Arshavin to be favourites, but then Diaby, Eboue, Bendtner, Walcott, Rosicky and Eduardo are all fighting for two spots without even mentioning the players who are still injured and the younger members of the squad.
Wenger had a word to say here about money he has to spend and the strength of the squad. I know he sometimes says these things to make the players believe in themselves but I don't think our squad is desperately short, it just needs tweaking. With regards to money to spend, and all the rubbish flying back and forth about Chamakh, well that isn't going to really make a difference until January so it's not even worth discussing.
As I say I think RvP and Arshavin will line up in attack tomorrow, with either Bendtner or Eduardo. I fancy Bendtner to start tomorrow, who had something to say this week about playing out wide:
"I think it is a short-term decision. I have spoken to the manager, obviously, and he explained why he's playing me there at the moment.
"He knows as well though that my position is to play up front as a striker. That's where I prefer personally, but if I have to do a job for the team and play on the right or the left sometimes then I'm happy to do that as well."
"I like to think that the reason I scored against Standard Liege has something to do with the fact I played more centrally.
"Obviously you are closer to the goal and because of my pace I can make those runs. You can use that more up front than you can on the right."
I have to agree. It just makes sense to have Bendtner up front and Arshavin and RvP either side doing all the creative stuff. Plus Bendtner looks a handful when he gets in the box and gives us a real physical presence.
That only really leaves one spot in the team for tomorrow and that's probably between Eboue and Diaby. It's been hard to predict the team so far this season but I wonder if he might just pick Eboue to try and keep things a little tighter than they would be with Diaby.
Hopefully we can pick up three points and get the season back on track.
Thursday, 24 September 2009
While on the subject of the kids...
It's Carling Cup week and that is when Arsenal's youngsters take centre stage so it's no suprise to see these comments from Arsene Wenger about the new rules regarding signing young players in which he says:
"If you cannot add any players under 18, and you have the home-grown rule, and on top of that English clubs are limited to bringing in young players who live less than 90 minutes from the training ground, how can we produce home-grown players?
"Personally, I don't know. So it's vital that this under-18 transfer rule is not implemented because English clubs would have a domestic limitation and a foreign limitation, making it harder to produce home-grown players.
"In England we accumulate disadvantages. We cannot buy [an academy player] outside our 90-minute radius.
"So already we cannot take a player from Manchester or Southampton. We cannot take a player from Asia, North or South America, Africa.
"What can we do? We can only pray that somebody next to London Colney is as gifted as Maradona and says, 'Please can I play for you'.
Love that last bit, Wenger always has a way of coming out with a catchy little quote like his comment about Mark Hughes last week.
It's a fair point he makes, and seems to put English clubs at a disadvantage compared to their European rivals.
If all these rules come into effect Englich clubs will not be able to sign players from abroad if they are under 18 or if they live more than 90 minutes away but will still have to include 8 home grown players in their squad.
So on the one hand the authorities are limiting the players clubs can sign while at the same time telling clubs they must use more home grown players. Seems like the rules are moving in two opposite directions.
I agree that young players should not be taken from the club which has developed him without any compensation being paid to them so perhaps the age at which players can be signed on a professional contract needs to be harmonised across Europe.
But then what if a young player hits 18 and wants to leave the club he has been trained at? Let's say you are Cesc Fabregas and you don't fancy your chances of breaking into the first team at Barcelona and Arsenal want you and are offering first team football. Should you be forced to sign with the team that developed you?
The other point, and one that Wenger is keen to stress, is that why shouldn't the best young players be signed by the best teams and trained by the best coaches with the best facilities at their disposal, surrounded by the best players in the world? If you were the best in any other field, you would be pushed to develop your talent so why not football?
One area of concern would be if the top clubs signed all the best young players around just to stop others having them. One simple way to stop this would be to impose a limit on the number of young players a club could sign in each age group.
And if anyone is in any doubt about the benefit of having a young player training with the top players here is what Sanchez Watt said about being at the same club as Thierry Henry, and the advice he got from the great man:
"I didn't get to play with him but I still asked him questions off the pitch when he was free about how it was and things like that.
"He said ‘be calm in front of goal and when the ball is moving, you don't have to keep making long runs. Make it short and sharp and just take it from there'.
"I was about 14. But it's about my career and not many people get the chance to talk to players like him, so I just took it as a good opportunity.
"I wasn't nervous because when we were growing up, our manager told us you can ask the senior players questions."
Nice to see that the younger players are encouraged by the manager to make the most of the top players around them. This issue is one that is going to keep cropping up.
Tomorrow i'll look forward to Saturday's game against Fulham.
"If you cannot add any players under 18, and you have the home-grown rule, and on top of that English clubs are limited to bringing in young players who live less than 90 minutes from the training ground, how can we produce home-grown players?
"Personally, I don't know. So it's vital that this under-18 transfer rule is not implemented because English clubs would have a domestic limitation and a foreign limitation, making it harder to produce home-grown players.
"In England we accumulate disadvantages. We cannot buy [an academy player] outside our 90-minute radius.
"So already we cannot take a player from Manchester or Southampton. We cannot take a player from Asia, North or South America, Africa.
"What can we do? We can only pray that somebody next to London Colney is as gifted as Maradona and says, 'Please can I play for you'.
Love that last bit, Wenger always has a way of coming out with a catchy little quote like his comment about Mark Hughes last week.
It's a fair point he makes, and seems to put English clubs at a disadvantage compared to their European rivals.
If all these rules come into effect Englich clubs will not be able to sign players from abroad if they are under 18 or if they live more than 90 minutes away but will still have to include 8 home grown players in their squad.
So on the one hand the authorities are limiting the players clubs can sign while at the same time telling clubs they must use more home grown players. Seems like the rules are moving in two opposite directions.
I agree that young players should not be taken from the club which has developed him without any compensation being paid to them so perhaps the age at which players can be signed on a professional contract needs to be harmonised across Europe.
But then what if a young player hits 18 and wants to leave the club he has been trained at? Let's say you are Cesc Fabregas and you don't fancy your chances of breaking into the first team at Barcelona and Arsenal want you and are offering first team football. Should you be forced to sign with the team that developed you?
The other point, and one that Wenger is keen to stress, is that why shouldn't the best young players be signed by the best teams and trained by the best coaches with the best facilities at their disposal, surrounded by the best players in the world? If you were the best in any other field, you would be pushed to develop your talent so why not football?
One area of concern would be if the top clubs signed all the best young players around just to stop others having them. One simple way to stop this would be to impose a limit on the number of young players a club could sign in each age group.
And if anyone is in any doubt about the benefit of having a young player training with the top players here is what Sanchez Watt said about being at the same club as Thierry Henry, and the advice he got from the great man:
"I didn't get to play with him but I still asked him questions off the pitch when he was free about how it was and things like that.
"He said ‘be calm in front of goal and when the ball is moving, you don't have to keep making long runs. Make it short and sharp and just take it from there'.
"I was about 14. But it's about my career and not many people get the chance to talk to players like him, so I just took it as a good opportunity.
"I wasn't nervous because when we were growing up, our manager told us you can ask the senior players questions."
Nice to see that the younger players are encouraged by the manager to make the most of the top players around them. This issue is one that is going to keep cropping up.
Tomorrow i'll look forward to Saturday's game against Fulham.
Wednesday, 23 September 2009
Arsenal 2-0 W.B.A, The Kids Are Alright
It was a strange feeling last night for there to be an Arsenal game taking place and it not being possible to watch it. It's such a rare occurunce as I attend all other home games and usually away games are live one way or another. The important thing is that Arsenal's kids won 2-0 to progress to the fourth round of the Carling Cup.
The goals were all that was shown on Sky Sports News and it looked like Vela had a good return to the (sort of) first team after being involved in the first and scoring the second to take Arsenal through. Former Arsenal player Jerome Thomas was sent off for a push on Wilshere, which somehow was Wilshere's own fault, according to West Brom's manager.
It sounded like quite an even game and it's no surprise really considering West Brom are a strong side and lead the Championship. I'm glad the kids managed to make it through as it gives them further chances to impress in the next round.
A co-worker who attended the game informed me that it seemed to be more like a 4-5-1 formation for Arsenal last night and it got me thinking about some of the goals we have conceded in the last few games, particularly the Man City game.
In the 4-3-3 formation we have been playing, the full backs have been far too exposed and it's no surprise that pretty much all four goals stemmed from mistakes or loose marking down the flanks against City.
The key to making this formation work is hard work and tracking back. Now that may sound like stating the obvious, but I think in a 4-4-2 it is easier to cover than this formation. If Clichy loses the ball going forward here there is no natural wide cover for him, same for Sagna, with all our play focused through the middle, and no wingers.
Barcelona, who as I have said before provide the inspiration for this formation, work so hard at making it work, and it is surprising to see players like Henry and Messi covering so much ground. But they realise that there can be no passengers in this formation. Perhaps the only player who doesn't have to provide some sort of cover is the central striker, in Arsenal's case Van Persie.
I don't want to get too bogged down in details with regards to the new formation as I believe it is still a work in progress, as is our first choice 11 to play in this formation. But players need to be very fit to play in this formation and they also need to be willing to work hard. These are things that will be tested as they become evident as the season goes on. I just hope Arsene has the players to perform in his new formation.
The goals were all that was shown on Sky Sports News and it looked like Vela had a good return to the (sort of) first team after being involved in the first and scoring the second to take Arsenal through. Former Arsenal player Jerome Thomas was sent off for a push on Wilshere, which somehow was Wilshere's own fault, according to West Brom's manager.
It sounded like quite an even game and it's no surprise really considering West Brom are a strong side and lead the Championship. I'm glad the kids managed to make it through as it gives them further chances to impress in the next round.
A co-worker who attended the game informed me that it seemed to be more like a 4-5-1 formation for Arsenal last night and it got me thinking about some of the goals we have conceded in the last few games, particularly the Man City game.
In the 4-3-3 formation we have been playing, the full backs have been far too exposed and it's no surprise that pretty much all four goals stemmed from mistakes or loose marking down the flanks against City.
The key to making this formation work is hard work and tracking back. Now that may sound like stating the obvious, but I think in a 4-4-2 it is easier to cover than this formation. If Clichy loses the ball going forward here there is no natural wide cover for him, same for Sagna, with all our play focused through the middle, and no wingers.
Barcelona, who as I have said before provide the inspiration for this formation, work so hard at making it work, and it is surprising to see players like Henry and Messi covering so much ground. But they realise that there can be no passengers in this formation. Perhaps the only player who doesn't have to provide some sort of cover is the central striker, in Arsenal's case Van Persie.
I don't want to get too bogged down in details with regards to the new formation as I believe it is still a work in progress, as is our first choice 11 to play in this formation. But players need to be very fit to play in this formation and they also need to be willing to work hard. These are things that will be tested as they become evident as the season goes on. I just hope Arsene has the players to perform in his new formation.
Tuesday, 22 September 2009
Arsenal Vs W.B.A. Preview, Class Of 2009
Tonight Arsenal take on West Brom in the Carling Cup third round and we get our first glimpse of Arsene Wenger's new batch of youngsters. Of course there will be some familiar faces in there too.
Arsena Wenger has already revealed six of the players that will start. The squad of 18 has just been announced here and from them 19 year old Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny will start in goal, Philippe Senderos and Mikael Silvestre will make up an experienced centre back pairing. Kieran Gibbs is set to play left back while Aaron Ramsey is set to continue his solid progress this season in midfield. Jack Wilshere is likely to play right with Traore left, either side of the returning Carlos Vela who will get his first action of the season.
It's good to see Vela back in action and hopefully he can recapture some of the form he showed in this competition last season.
The rest of the squad is made up of less familiar names although Kerrea Gilbert will probably play right back and it seems a long time since he created a goal for Thierry Henry in this competition. The opposition on that day escapes me but he has had a tough time since then with some not so successful loan spells.
The thing I find interesting about this squad is that many of these players, as with previous Carling Cup squads, will one day, if they make the grade, meet the rules on the home grown quota system when it is introduced next season. The rules on the quota state that "To qualify as home grown, a player will have had to be registered for at least three seasons at an English or Welsh club between the ages of 16 and 21." So for example Cesc Fabregas qualifies as home grown, as does Gael Clichy.
It seems Arsenal will be better equiped than some to cope with the new quota system.
Let's hope the class of 2009 can carry on the fine tradition of a good showing in this tournament in what will be a tough game against a very decent West Brom side.
Arsena Wenger has already revealed six of the players that will start. The squad of 18 has just been announced here and from them 19 year old Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny will start in goal, Philippe Senderos and Mikael Silvestre will make up an experienced centre back pairing. Kieran Gibbs is set to play left back while Aaron Ramsey is set to continue his solid progress this season in midfield. Jack Wilshere is likely to play right with Traore left, either side of the returning Carlos Vela who will get his first action of the season.
It's good to see Vela back in action and hopefully he can recapture some of the form he showed in this competition last season.
The rest of the squad is made up of less familiar names although Kerrea Gilbert will probably play right back and it seems a long time since he created a goal for Thierry Henry in this competition. The opposition on that day escapes me but he has had a tough time since then with some not so successful loan spells.
The thing I find interesting about this squad is that many of these players, as with previous Carling Cup squads, will one day, if they make the grade, meet the rules on the home grown quota system when it is introduced next season. The rules on the quota state that "To qualify as home grown, a player will have had to be registered for at least three seasons at an English or Welsh club between the ages of 16 and 21." So for example Cesc Fabregas qualifies as home grown, as does Gael Clichy.
It seems Arsenal will be better equiped than some to cope with the new quota system.
Let's hope the class of 2009 can carry on the fine tradition of a good showing in this tournament in what will be a tough game against a very decent West Brom side.
Monday, 21 September 2009
Arsenal 4 Wigan 0, Henry says it best
Arsenal got just what was needed on Saturday, 4 goals, a clean sheet, 3 points and as a bonus, no new injuries.
The first thing to say about Saturday is the starting line up again took me by suprise. I think the new formation is so versatile, with so many different combinations that it is hard to know who Wenger is going to start with. I expect he is still working his best 11 out himself but it has caught a few people out, not just me. I was expecting Bendtner to start in attack but he went with Diaby again with Eboue in midfield. As I say I suspect it's partly the formation being so versatile and partly Wenger still finding his best 11.
Mannone didn't have much to do. Pushed a header from a corner out as he was moving back towards his line and was a little lucky to have a defender there to clear. Also made a decent save from Jason Scotland in the second half and again was lucky to have the follow up ruled offside. But as I keep saying, luck can often play a big part in football.
Clichy was much improved but after his last few games, which were terrible, that's not saying much. Let's hope he can keep up this level of performance. Sagna and Gallas were solid but it was all about Vermaelen on Saturday. A good, old-fashioned centre back's headed goal from a corner for the first and a not in any way old-fashioned centre back finish for the second. A one-two with Eboue before he swept the ball first time into the top corner.
I think I am not alone in saying Vermaelen is much better than most expected him to be. He is very positive and aggresive in defence. He doesn't just stand off and wait for the attacker to make his move, he wins the ball and puts his man under constant pressure. His touch and passing is first class and he is a threat going forward, as can be seen from the fact that he is now our top scorer with 4 goals in eight games.
Eduardo volleyed a nice cross from Clichy on to the post before following up on the rebound which went in off Eboue's leg for the third. It looked like it was hitting Kirkland so Eboue has been given the goal. A nice turnaround from last December when he was booed off by the Arsenal fans.
Song was busy but will have to do better to not give the ball away sloppily as he did a couple of times on Saturday. Fabregas had a bit of a quiet one despite scoring the fourth after a low cross by Bendnter who came on with Ramsey and Rosicky late on.
Diaby was also quiet but it's nice to have him fit for a while. Hopefully he can up his game as his fitness improves.
RvP had a couple of chances, one in the first half he really should have scored when he was through with his back to goal and rushed his turn and shot.
So all in all a pretty decent performance and an excellent result and finally a clean sheet in the league. I like clean sheets. They breed good habits and defenders and goalkeepers, and the whole team in fact, should be determined to keep a clean sheet every game but we all know that is not really the Wenger way.
Thierry Henry has some great quotes here about Adebayor.
“You have to remember, no matter where you end up, the people who helped make you along the way and gave you the chance.
“I won the treble with Barcelona last year, but I know if it wasn’t for Arsene Wenger and Arsenal I would not be the player I am today.
“I think the same has to be true of Adebayor. He might be one of the world’s top strikers today, but he wasn’t before Arsene got hold of him and gave him that chance.
“When he came from Monaco he wasn’t even getting games back in France and then within two seasons he was a player who was wanted by a lot of top clubs in Europe.
“Arsene puts a lot of investment in you when he sees talent and I don’t think it would hurt for Adebayor to show him, the club and the fans a little more respect.”
He always did have a way with words.
Jay Simpson, on loan at QPR got both goals in their 2-0 away victory at Cardiff. The goals are here, the second was a very nice finish.
Tomorrow we get a first look at the latest batch of Wenger's kids with the first game in the Carling Cup, the home game against West Brom.
The first thing to say about Saturday is the starting line up again took me by suprise. I think the new formation is so versatile, with so many different combinations that it is hard to know who Wenger is going to start with. I expect he is still working his best 11 out himself but it has caught a few people out, not just me. I was expecting Bendtner to start in attack but he went with Diaby again with Eboue in midfield. As I say I suspect it's partly the formation being so versatile and partly Wenger still finding his best 11.
Mannone didn't have much to do. Pushed a header from a corner out as he was moving back towards his line and was a little lucky to have a defender there to clear. Also made a decent save from Jason Scotland in the second half and again was lucky to have the follow up ruled offside. But as I keep saying, luck can often play a big part in football.
Clichy was much improved but after his last few games, which were terrible, that's not saying much. Let's hope he can keep up this level of performance. Sagna and Gallas were solid but it was all about Vermaelen on Saturday. A good, old-fashioned centre back's headed goal from a corner for the first and a not in any way old-fashioned centre back finish for the second. A one-two with Eboue before he swept the ball first time into the top corner.
I think I am not alone in saying Vermaelen is much better than most expected him to be. He is very positive and aggresive in defence. He doesn't just stand off and wait for the attacker to make his move, he wins the ball and puts his man under constant pressure. His touch and passing is first class and he is a threat going forward, as can be seen from the fact that he is now our top scorer with 4 goals in eight games.
Eduardo volleyed a nice cross from Clichy on to the post before following up on the rebound which went in off Eboue's leg for the third. It looked like it was hitting Kirkland so Eboue has been given the goal. A nice turnaround from last December when he was booed off by the Arsenal fans.
Song was busy but will have to do better to not give the ball away sloppily as he did a couple of times on Saturday. Fabregas had a bit of a quiet one despite scoring the fourth after a low cross by Bendnter who came on with Ramsey and Rosicky late on.
Diaby was also quiet but it's nice to have him fit for a while. Hopefully he can up his game as his fitness improves.
RvP had a couple of chances, one in the first half he really should have scored when he was through with his back to goal and rushed his turn and shot.
So all in all a pretty decent performance and an excellent result and finally a clean sheet in the league. I like clean sheets. They breed good habits and defenders and goalkeepers, and the whole team in fact, should be determined to keep a clean sheet every game but we all know that is not really the Wenger way.
Thierry Henry has some great quotes here about Adebayor.
“You have to remember, no matter where you end up, the people who helped make you along the way and gave you the chance.
“I won the treble with Barcelona last year, but I know if it wasn’t for Arsene Wenger and Arsenal I would not be the player I am today.
“I think the same has to be true of Adebayor. He might be one of the world’s top strikers today, but he wasn’t before Arsene got hold of him and gave him that chance.
“When he came from Monaco he wasn’t even getting games back in France and then within two seasons he was a player who was wanted by a lot of top clubs in Europe.
“Arsene puts a lot of investment in you when he sees talent and I don’t think it would hurt for Adebayor to show him, the club and the fans a little more respect.”
He always did have a way with words.
Jay Simpson, on loan at QPR got both goals in their 2-0 away victory at Cardiff. The goals are here, the second was a very nice finish.
Tomorrow we get a first look at the latest batch of Wenger's kids with the first game in the Carling Cup, the home game against West Brom.
Friday, 18 September 2009
Arsenal Vs Wigan Preview
It's back to domestic football tomorrow after Wednesday's bizarre Champions League victory over Liege. Let us hope we can get our domestic campaign back on track after two successive league defeats in Manchester.
The latest team news is that RvP has been passed fit for tomorrow but everyone else is still out. Arshavin hasn't made it and Almunia is, according to Arsenal.com, not match fit. Strange to say that about a player who has played four games already and missed only one due to an illness. I wonder if there is any truth to the rumours he has been dropped because of his poor early season form.
That means Mannone will continue in goal, with hopefully the first choice back four of Clichy, Gallas, Vermaelen and Sagna in place of Eboue from the team that started on Wednesday. In midfield I imagine Cesc and Song will be partnered by Diaby again. I can't see Rosicky starting again but I didn't expect him to start the other day so who knows. There is a chance that Diaby won't start, he has played quite a bit of football recently and with his injury record perhaps Wenger will decide it's time he had a rest. If Diaby doesn't start I can see Eboue joining the midfield two and RvP joining Eduardo and Bendtner in attck.
I was optimistic about the new formation early in the season but suddenly without Arshavin it looks a little unbalanced. I guess it is still early to decide if it is working or not.
It will be a tough game and coming after two defeats in the league and Wednesday's shaky victory it is important Arsenal try and get back to the early season form that brought four victories. The thing I found interesting in those games was that even though Arsenal won them and played well, we only kept one clean sheet, away to Celtic.
Yesterday I mentioned leadership and leaders at Arsenal. I'm reading Patrick Vieira's autobiography, and in it he talks about Tony Adams and his role at Arsenal. He talks about his own role at the club. He mentions that he and other senior players would sometimes approach Wenger with ideas and concerns about the team. He also said they did this for the French national team with Vieira and Henry on occasion raising concerns to the coach.
It got me thinking, especially after Eduardo's backheel, is there anyone who would do this at Arsenal? Is there anyone who would challenge Wenger? Raise concerns about the slack attitude to defending? Arshavin strikes me as the type maybe, perhaps Cesc in his role as captain. Gallas is clearly outspoken. But there seems to be very little evidence of it on the pitch. The other day when Liege came out all guns blazing nobody seemed to have the desire to try and slow the game down and take the sting out of their play. It was one speed, one way to play.
Perhaps I have judged things wrong and there are inquests after defeats and fingers pointed and lessons learnt. It just doesn't seem that way from what is witnessed on the pitch, with the same mistakes made over and over again. Perhaps that is just the consequence of having so many young players.
I'm looking forward to going to a game again after what seems like ages since the Celtic game.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS!!!
The latest team news is that RvP has been passed fit for tomorrow but everyone else is still out. Arshavin hasn't made it and Almunia is, according to Arsenal.com, not match fit. Strange to say that about a player who has played four games already and missed only one due to an illness. I wonder if there is any truth to the rumours he has been dropped because of his poor early season form.
That means Mannone will continue in goal, with hopefully the first choice back four of Clichy, Gallas, Vermaelen and Sagna in place of Eboue from the team that started on Wednesday. In midfield I imagine Cesc and Song will be partnered by Diaby again. I can't see Rosicky starting again but I didn't expect him to start the other day so who knows. There is a chance that Diaby won't start, he has played quite a bit of football recently and with his injury record perhaps Wenger will decide it's time he had a rest. If Diaby doesn't start I can see Eboue joining the midfield two and RvP joining Eduardo and Bendtner in attck.
I was optimistic about the new formation early in the season but suddenly without Arshavin it looks a little unbalanced. I guess it is still early to decide if it is working or not.
It will be a tough game and coming after two defeats in the league and Wednesday's shaky victory it is important Arsenal try and get back to the early season form that brought four victories. The thing I found interesting in those games was that even though Arsenal won them and played well, we only kept one clean sheet, away to Celtic.
Yesterday I mentioned leadership and leaders at Arsenal. I'm reading Patrick Vieira's autobiography, and in it he talks about Tony Adams and his role at Arsenal. He talks about his own role at the club. He mentions that he and other senior players would sometimes approach Wenger with ideas and concerns about the team. He also said they did this for the French national team with Vieira and Henry on occasion raising concerns to the coach.
It got me thinking, especially after Eduardo's backheel, is there anyone who would do this at Arsenal? Is there anyone who would challenge Wenger? Raise concerns about the slack attitude to defending? Arshavin strikes me as the type maybe, perhaps Cesc in his role as captain. Gallas is clearly outspoken. But there seems to be very little evidence of it on the pitch. The other day when Liege came out all guns blazing nobody seemed to have the desire to try and slow the game down and take the sting out of their play. It was one speed, one way to play.
Perhaps I have judged things wrong and there are inquests after defeats and fingers pointed and lessons learnt. It just doesn't seem that way from what is witnessed on the pitch, with the same mistakes made over and over again. Perhaps that is just the consequence of having so many young players.
I'm looking forward to going to a game again after what seems like ages since the Celtic game.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS!!!
Thursday, 17 September 2009
Standard Liege 2-3 Arsenal: Positives and Negatives
With Arsenal two goals down after four minutes I don’t mind admitting that I feared it was all over last night in Belgium. Quite how we managed to win this game is a bit of a mystery to me.
The first goal came after just two minutes when Eduardo tried to backheel the ball to Cesc on the edge of the Arsenal box with Arsenal defending a corner, which was picked up and smashed home as Mangala brushed off Cesc’s attempted challenge. Mannone didn’t really have a chance.
Three minutes later Eboue, for some reason starting ahead of Sagna (“rested” according to Arsenal.com), gave the ball away on the half way line, Liege went on the attack and Gallas clipped the forward’s foot, who probably made the most of it as all forwards do, and a penalty was given. Jovanovic put it away. Again Mannone had no chance. Poor lad had conceded two in five minutes without really doing anything wrong.
What followed in the first half was among the worst Arsenal performances I have ever witnessed under Wenger. Every pass seemed to be too long or short or high. I don’t really remember them having any more chances to score but neither do I remember us having any.
Then Diaby, having one of his “quiet” games shall we call it, on the stroke of half time picked the ball up on the half way line turned his marker and sprinted away from him before feeding Bendtner a lovely pass which he put through the keeper’s legs to pull one back for Arsenal. Worst possible time for them to concede, and best possible time for us.
Surely Arsenal would come out all guns blazing to find an equaliser? Wrong. Song gave the ball away straight from the kick off and they almost scored in the first minute of the second half. After that we played reasonably well, with Tomas Rosicky especially looking good, but it wasn’t until the 77th minute that we managed to draw level. Fabregas swung in a free-kick, one of few decent set pieces we managed last night, which was curling towards the back post. I’m still not sure if Eduardo got a touch but if he did you can add offside to the handball that Song then committed before Vermaelen put it away to level things up. There was definitely a huge slice of luck with this goal but I think we have been due a bit.
Despite Arsenal still not really having played that well, Liege looked there for the taking and Eduardo could have scored after a neat move and in the 81st minute Eduardo (who else after all the diving fuss?) got our third. He turned a Cesc corner in with his knee and while it’s not the greatest goal he will ever score he showed his goalscoring instinct to just get anything on the ball and turn it goalwards. Having started the week banned for this game he ends it having scored the winner. Football has a way of throwing up funny situations like this.
While it is nice to win having not played well, the start to this game shocked me. Too many players are playing poorly at the moment. The only bright spots were Rosicky, a surprise starter, who passed it neatly until he was taken off and Bendtner who worked hard and took his goal well. While injuries are a factor with six probable first team players missing through injury, the players who took their place aren’t exactly new to the first team. Also, established first team players are playing well below their best. Things will have to improve as others teams will not be so generous if we let them take a two goal lead.
What worried me most of all was the lack of leadership once again. We know Wenger trusts his players and treats them like adults and that was fine when the team was made up of Adams and Vieira and experienced top-class internationals. Now we have a young, and more importantly very casual, cavalier team and they need to be told not to try backheels on the edge of your own box when defending a corner. They need to be told not to lose the ball when you have just one man behind you, as Eboue did. Are mistakes learnt from? Are questions asked in the changing room after the game and at training the next day?
This is what I will talk about tomorrow, leadership at Arsenal.
The first goal came after just two minutes when Eduardo tried to backheel the ball to Cesc on the edge of the Arsenal box with Arsenal defending a corner, which was picked up and smashed home as Mangala brushed off Cesc’s attempted challenge. Mannone didn’t really have a chance.
Three minutes later Eboue, for some reason starting ahead of Sagna (“rested” according to Arsenal.com), gave the ball away on the half way line, Liege went on the attack and Gallas clipped the forward’s foot, who probably made the most of it as all forwards do, and a penalty was given. Jovanovic put it away. Again Mannone had no chance. Poor lad had conceded two in five minutes without really doing anything wrong.
What followed in the first half was among the worst Arsenal performances I have ever witnessed under Wenger. Every pass seemed to be too long or short or high. I don’t really remember them having any more chances to score but neither do I remember us having any.
Then Diaby, having one of his “quiet” games shall we call it, on the stroke of half time picked the ball up on the half way line turned his marker and sprinted away from him before feeding Bendtner a lovely pass which he put through the keeper’s legs to pull one back for Arsenal. Worst possible time for them to concede, and best possible time for us.
Surely Arsenal would come out all guns blazing to find an equaliser? Wrong. Song gave the ball away straight from the kick off and they almost scored in the first minute of the second half. After that we played reasonably well, with Tomas Rosicky especially looking good, but it wasn’t until the 77th minute that we managed to draw level. Fabregas swung in a free-kick, one of few decent set pieces we managed last night, which was curling towards the back post. I’m still not sure if Eduardo got a touch but if he did you can add offside to the handball that Song then committed before Vermaelen put it away to level things up. There was definitely a huge slice of luck with this goal but I think we have been due a bit.
Despite Arsenal still not really having played that well, Liege looked there for the taking and Eduardo could have scored after a neat move and in the 81st minute Eduardo (who else after all the diving fuss?) got our third. He turned a Cesc corner in with his knee and while it’s not the greatest goal he will ever score he showed his goalscoring instinct to just get anything on the ball and turn it goalwards. Having started the week banned for this game he ends it having scored the winner. Football has a way of throwing up funny situations like this.
While it is nice to win having not played well, the start to this game shocked me. Too many players are playing poorly at the moment. The only bright spots were Rosicky, a surprise starter, who passed it neatly until he was taken off and Bendtner who worked hard and took his goal well. While injuries are a factor with six probable first team players missing through injury, the players who took their place aren’t exactly new to the first team. Also, established first team players are playing well below their best. Things will have to improve as others teams will not be so generous if we let them take a two goal lead.
What worried me most of all was the lack of leadership once again. We know Wenger trusts his players and treats them like adults and that was fine when the team was made up of Adams and Vieira and experienced top-class internationals. Now we have a young, and more importantly very casual, cavalier team and they need to be told not to try backheels on the edge of your own box when defending a corner. They need to be told not to lose the ball when you have just one man behind you, as Eboue did. Are mistakes learnt from? Are questions asked in the changing room after the game and at training the next day?
This is what I will talk about tomorrow, leadership at Arsenal.
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Standard Liege Vs Arsenal preview
It’s almost easy to forget, with all the other news flying around at the moment, that we begin our Champions League campaign tonight.
The big team news is that Manuel Almunia is to miss out due to a chest infection. Vito Mannone looks set to fill in, and anyone who saw his rather shaky performances in the Emirates Cup in pre-season will realise this is potentially a big problem. Just two weeks ago I said regarding our goalkeeping situation: “As for back up I feel we could do slightly better, with perhaps a more experienced reserve goalie, but success can come down to luck and how often we need to call on our back up in this position.” Not a good start on that front then. Let’s hope the young Italian is not tested too much.
There are suggestions (completely without substance) that Almunia has been dropped but surely Wenger wouldn’t do this and throw such an inexperienced goalkeeper into action. Then again he did drop Lehmann a few years ago and if you are hoping to give your number 1 a kick up the bum and take a chance in a Champions League group game then the first one is probably the best time to do it. Regardless there is nothing to suggest this is the case.
Robin van Persie and Denilson are also out, but could be back for Saturday.
So we are likely to line up with the same back four of Sagna, Gallas, Vermaelen and Clichy, who will be looking to put Saturday’s horror show behind him.
In midfield Cesc and Song are certainties, most probably joined by either Diaby or Eboue, with the odd one out of those two joining Eduardo and Bendtner in attack. Rosicky, despite looking sharp on Saturday, is likely to be on the bench as Wenger eases him back in. Good to see Wilshere and Sanchez Watty Watt on the bench.
Anyone who saw Liege’s games against Liverpool last year, in which they were narrowly beaten 1-0 on aggregate, will know this will be far from easy. Add our goalkeeping issue and general shaky defensive performances so far and we could be in for a tough night.
In my squad overview, that I quoted from above, I made numerous references to injuries and luck with injuries playing a big part in our season. With an injury list comprising Robin van Persie, Denilson, Almunia, Theo Walcott, Samir Nasri, Andrey Arshavin, Lukasz Fabianski, Johan Djourou and Carlos Vela, things have not started well on that front at all. Quite possibly the first six of those would be in the team if fit so we will do very well to get a result tonight. We shall see…
The big team news is that Manuel Almunia is to miss out due to a chest infection. Vito Mannone looks set to fill in, and anyone who saw his rather shaky performances in the Emirates Cup in pre-season will realise this is potentially a big problem. Just two weeks ago I said regarding our goalkeeping situation: “As for back up I feel we could do slightly better, with perhaps a more experienced reserve goalie, but success can come down to luck and how often we need to call on our back up in this position.” Not a good start on that front then. Let’s hope the young Italian is not tested too much.
There are suggestions (completely without substance) that Almunia has been dropped but surely Wenger wouldn’t do this and throw such an inexperienced goalkeeper into action. Then again he did drop Lehmann a few years ago and if you are hoping to give your number 1 a kick up the bum and take a chance in a Champions League group game then the first one is probably the best time to do it. Regardless there is nothing to suggest this is the case.
Robin van Persie and Denilson are also out, but could be back for Saturday.
So we are likely to line up with the same back four of Sagna, Gallas, Vermaelen and Clichy, who will be looking to put Saturday’s horror show behind him.
In midfield Cesc and Song are certainties, most probably joined by either Diaby or Eboue, with the odd one out of those two joining Eduardo and Bendtner in attack. Rosicky, despite looking sharp on Saturday, is likely to be on the bench as Wenger eases him back in. Good to see Wilshere and Sanchez Watty Watt on the bench.
Anyone who saw Liege’s games against Liverpool last year, in which they were narrowly beaten 1-0 on aggregate, will know this will be far from easy. Add our goalkeeping issue and general shaky defensive performances so far and we could be in for a tough night.
In my squad overview, that I quoted from above, I made numerous references to injuries and luck with injuries playing a big part in our season. With an injury list comprising Robin van Persie, Denilson, Almunia, Theo Walcott, Samir Nasri, Andrey Arshavin, Lukasz Fabianski, Johan Djourou and Carlos Vela, things have not started well on that front at all. Quite possibly the first six of those would be in the team if fit so we will do very well to get a result tonight. We shall see…
Tuesday, 15 September 2009
Man City 4 Arsenal 2, Adebayor, Eduardo
Loads to get through today, but then I have been a bit slack recently so let me get straight into it.
First let me tackle the actual football match that took place on Saturday. After playing reasonably well, without forcing a save from Shay Given despite Gallas coming close, Arsenal fell behind to a comical own goal.
Gareth Barry's free kick was floated in to Richards who nodded it across goal where it struck the post, bounced back and hit the diving Almunia on his back and fell into the goal. While there was some rotten luck, Almunia looked like he was struggling to get across his line, Sagna gave away a silly free kick which led to the goal and Vermaelen won't be pleased at being outjumped so easily be Richards.
Arsenal equalised after a nice turn and shot from Van Persie. Then all hell broke loose. Adebayor, who earlier had stamped on Cesc's ankle appeared to rake his studs on Van Persie's face. This appears to show a stamp. Clichy then lost the ball while storming forward, the covering Song put in a weak attempt at a tackle before the ball was cut back for Bellamy. Then, again down Clichy's side, the ball was crossed for you know who to score. Arsenal by this time were all over the place and conceeded a fourth to Wright-Philips. A smart move earned Arsenal a consolation through Rosicky, who also made Arsenal's first, and it ended 4-2.
The defending was "shaky" by Wenger's own admission but Clichy was especially poor, with three goals coming from his side. If he is going to attack he needs to be provided with proper cover. Also what he does when he gets in the opposition half is another valid question. I struggle to remember a recent goal or assist from Clichy.
Now on to what became the main talking point of the game, the behaviour of Adebayor. As the link above shows, it seems he went out with an agenda on Saturday and while nobody knows if he went out to hurt people he clearly went out with the intention to get stuck in and more. The stamps on Cesc, and especially the one on Van Persie, have no place on a football pitch, people could have been seriosuly injured. As for him running 90 yards to taunt the Arsenal fans, that just about sums him up. In his mind he has been wronged, he was the one who was betrayed. He has forgetten statements he made last year, trying to drum up interest by any club that wanted him. Arsenal fans supported him and more before that. The saddest/funniest thing about this is that history will repeat himself. In a year or 18 months or maybe even a bit more, he will do to Man City what he has done to Arsenal. He has had rows at previous clubs and with his international team. Quite simply he is trouble and we are well rid of him.
Lastly is the news that Eduardo's ban has been overturned by UEFA. After the ridiculous decision to charge him, this was the only sane thing to do. Either they look at all incidents of diving or none at all. They can't pick one at random, ban a player and think that is fair. It has nothing to do with whether or not Eduardo dived and everything to do with consistency.
Tomorrow we have our first Champions League game of the season, away to Standard Liege. More on that tomorrow.
First let me tackle the actual football match that took place on Saturday. After playing reasonably well, without forcing a save from Shay Given despite Gallas coming close, Arsenal fell behind to a comical own goal.
Gareth Barry's free kick was floated in to Richards who nodded it across goal where it struck the post, bounced back and hit the diving Almunia on his back and fell into the goal. While there was some rotten luck, Almunia looked like he was struggling to get across his line, Sagna gave away a silly free kick which led to the goal and Vermaelen won't be pleased at being outjumped so easily be Richards.
Arsenal equalised after a nice turn and shot from Van Persie. Then all hell broke loose. Adebayor, who earlier had stamped on Cesc's ankle appeared to rake his studs on Van Persie's face. This appears to show a stamp. Clichy then lost the ball while storming forward, the covering Song put in a weak attempt at a tackle before the ball was cut back for Bellamy. Then, again down Clichy's side, the ball was crossed for you know who to score. Arsenal by this time were all over the place and conceeded a fourth to Wright-Philips. A smart move earned Arsenal a consolation through Rosicky, who also made Arsenal's first, and it ended 4-2.
The defending was "shaky" by Wenger's own admission but Clichy was especially poor, with three goals coming from his side. If he is going to attack he needs to be provided with proper cover. Also what he does when he gets in the opposition half is another valid question. I struggle to remember a recent goal or assist from Clichy.
Now on to what became the main talking point of the game, the behaviour of Adebayor. As the link above shows, it seems he went out with an agenda on Saturday and while nobody knows if he went out to hurt people he clearly went out with the intention to get stuck in and more. The stamps on Cesc, and especially the one on Van Persie, have no place on a football pitch, people could have been seriosuly injured. As for him running 90 yards to taunt the Arsenal fans, that just about sums him up. In his mind he has been wronged, he was the one who was betrayed. He has forgetten statements he made last year, trying to drum up interest by any club that wanted him. Arsenal fans supported him and more before that. The saddest/funniest thing about this is that history will repeat himself. In a year or 18 months or maybe even a bit more, he will do to Man City what he has done to Arsenal. He has had rows at previous clubs and with his international team. Quite simply he is trouble and we are well rid of him.
Lastly is the news that Eduardo's ban has been overturned by UEFA. After the ridiculous decision to charge him, this was the only sane thing to do. Either they look at all incidents of diving or none at all. They can't pick one at random, ban a player and think that is fair. It has nothing to do with whether or not Eduardo dived and everything to do with consistency.
Tomorrow we have our first Champions League game of the season, away to Standard Liege. More on that tomorrow.
Tuesday, 8 September 2009
Child Catching
It seems the media have got bored with the diving fuss already and moved on to the next big storm; child catching.
This all kicked off following Chelsea’s transfer ban for signing Gael Kakuta from Lens. Since the announcement Man Utd have been accused by Le Harve over Paul Pogba and today Manchester City have denied any wrongdoing after Rennes reported them to Fifa for “unlawfully signing a young player”.
The problem seems to be that, it is claimed, Chelsea induced Kakuta to break his contract with Lens. Le Harve are claiming Man Utd offered financial inducements to Pogba's family and Rennes say the 17-year-old Jeremy Helan was bound to a pre-contract agreement.
Signing young players from abroad is nothing new and Arsenal fans know this better than anyone. In fact you might argue that it was Arsenal who started this trend off. Far better, and cheaper, to sign a player at 16 or 17 and develop him yourself than wait until he is a superstar and will cost millions.
However, without the player himself making the first team for the club that develops him or the club being paid, what is the incentive for them to continue with youth development? Why should Lens spend millions of pounds to develop young players if big teams will steal them?
Arsenal has courted similar controversy over the years and obviously the most high profile of these captures was Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona. While Arsenal hasn’t faced any punishment (as far as I can remember) Fran Merida was fined £2.1m back in October 2007 for infringing his contract, although this is under appeal.
The problem arises because players in the UK can sign professional contracts at 16, a year or two earlier than they can on the continent. The only way to stop this is to harmonise the rules. Clubs are desperate to get any advantage they can. So if they can sign young stars for peanuts they will do it. This also happens with teams signing players from English clubs further down the leagues, but they are usually entitled to compensation if there is a complaint.
While we are on the subject of Fabregas, he had some interesting things to say in this interview.
This all kicked off following Chelsea’s transfer ban for signing Gael Kakuta from Lens. Since the announcement Man Utd have been accused by Le Harve over Paul Pogba and today Manchester City have denied any wrongdoing after Rennes reported them to Fifa for “unlawfully signing a young player”.
The problem seems to be that, it is claimed, Chelsea induced Kakuta to break his contract with Lens. Le Harve are claiming Man Utd offered financial inducements to Pogba's family and Rennes say the 17-year-old Jeremy Helan was bound to a pre-contract agreement.
Signing young players from abroad is nothing new and Arsenal fans know this better than anyone. In fact you might argue that it was Arsenal who started this trend off. Far better, and cheaper, to sign a player at 16 or 17 and develop him yourself than wait until he is a superstar and will cost millions.
However, without the player himself making the first team for the club that develops him or the club being paid, what is the incentive for them to continue with youth development? Why should Lens spend millions of pounds to develop young players if big teams will steal them?
Arsenal has courted similar controversy over the years and obviously the most high profile of these captures was Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona. While Arsenal hasn’t faced any punishment (as far as I can remember) Fran Merida was fined £2.1m back in October 2007 for infringing his contract, although this is under appeal.
The problem arises because players in the UK can sign professional contracts at 16, a year or two earlier than they can on the continent. The only way to stop this is to harmonise the rules. Clubs are desperate to get any advantage they can. So if they can sign young stars for peanuts they will do it. This also happens with teams signing players from English clubs further down the leagues, but they are usually entitled to compensation if there is a complaint.
While we are on the subject of Fabregas, he had some interesting things to say in this interview.
Monday, 7 September 2009
Diving
With the absence of any real football over the weekend, I thought I’d give my two pence worth on all the diving talk that has been going around since the Eduardo incident against Celtic.
This diving story keeps circulating, I suspect, simply because the media (and those whiny blogs etc.) have decided this is a subject that can fill the sports pages until they find the next thing to moan about. Also England have a big game on Wednesday. Against Croatia. Which happens to be who Eduardo plays for. And the English newspapers love a villain, and its Eduardo’s turn. Cue Eduardo being jeered every time he touches the ball on Wednesday.
The truth is that diving is something that any player from any country may be guilty of. It’s something John Terry and Wayne Rooney would do well to remember after their recent comments. Terry says those pesky foreigners are to blame and Rooney saying he is an “honest” pro. A quick search of Youtube for “Rooney dive” will bring up quite a few results, and he is not alone, as F365’s Mediawatch helpfully demonstrates.
Perhaps the foreign players realised earlier than their English counterparts that conning the ref by diving was a neat trick, but Gerrard, Owen, Rooney and the rest have shown that they are not to be left behind and are now stride for stride with the overseas players when it comes to diving. But this “diving foreigners” tag seems to have stuck. Still, it was nice of Rooney to keep the debate going with his not-a-dive-in-anyway-penalty on Saturday. Look on the bright side, only 5 more days until Arsenal play again.
On the Arsenal front, Johan Djourou is our for six months after undergoing knee surgery. As I said last week our success this season could come down to how lucky we are with injuries, Add this to Cesc, Nasri and Rosicky and it’s not been a good start on that front. Let's hope we are getting them out of the way early.
This leaves us with just Silvestre and Senderos (and Song I guess) as cover for Gallas and Vermaelen. Let’s just hope the first choice pair remains fit.
Nicklas Bendtner scored a very good goal for Denmark, showing what he can do if he gets in the box.
And that's about it. A quiet day on the Arsenal front then.
This diving story keeps circulating, I suspect, simply because the media (and those whiny blogs etc.) have decided this is a subject that can fill the sports pages until they find the next thing to moan about. Also England have a big game on Wednesday. Against Croatia. Which happens to be who Eduardo plays for. And the English newspapers love a villain, and its Eduardo’s turn. Cue Eduardo being jeered every time he touches the ball on Wednesday.
The truth is that diving is something that any player from any country may be guilty of. It’s something John Terry and Wayne Rooney would do well to remember after their recent comments. Terry says those pesky foreigners are to blame and Rooney saying he is an “honest” pro. A quick search of Youtube for “Rooney dive” will bring up quite a few results, and he is not alone, as F365’s Mediawatch helpfully demonstrates.
Perhaps the foreign players realised earlier than their English counterparts that conning the ref by diving was a neat trick, but Gerrard, Owen, Rooney and the rest have shown that they are not to be left behind and are now stride for stride with the overseas players when it comes to diving. But this “diving foreigners” tag seems to have stuck. Still, it was nice of Rooney to keep the debate going with his not-a-dive-in-anyway-penalty on Saturday. Look on the bright side, only 5 more days until Arsenal play again.
On the Arsenal front, Johan Djourou is our for six months after undergoing knee surgery. As I said last week our success this season could come down to how lucky we are with injuries, Add this to Cesc, Nasri and Rosicky and it’s not been a good start on that front. Let's hope we are getting them out of the way early.
This leaves us with just Silvestre and Senderos (and Song I guess) as cover for Gallas and Vermaelen. Let’s just hope the first choice pair remains fit.
Nicklas Bendtner scored a very good goal for Denmark, showing what he can do if he gets in the box.
And that's about it. A quiet day on the Arsenal front then.
Friday, 4 September 2009
Attack
Concluding my look at Arsenal’s squad going into season 2009/10 is the review of the strikers.
Robin van Persie seems to have graduated to the role of first choice striker after a fine season in 2008/09 and the departure of Adebayor. He probably had his best season in an Arsenal shirt and this coincided with a spell without a serious injury, which have often blighted the Dutchman. 20 goals last season finally proved that he can be prolific in front of goal as well as providing for others, which seemed to be his strength. Has started this season well and despite not getting off the mark has looked good in front of goal and was unlucky not to score against Portsmouth and Man Utd. My biggest concern, with the exception of the aforementioned injuries is that he has started the season as the central striker when I think he would be better suited further out left or right in the front three we play with now.
This brings me on to our next striker, Nicklas Bendtner. Bendtner has started in a wide role and should probably play through the middle. It’s a strange one, to look at Bendtner you would say he is a typical big centre forward but the way he plays suggest that he or Wenger fancy him as something else. Often used on the left last season, he has started this season on the right of our front three. I can’t understand why he doesn’t swap with van Persie, after all this is a very similar role to the one van Persie plays for his national side. Having signed a new contract this week it’s a big season for Nicklas, especially as he is the main big man in the squad now his old friend Adebayor has left.
Eduardo is the best finisher in the squad and has looked sharp so far this season. Also has the benefit of being versatile enough to play anywhere across the front three. I hope all this rubbish about his dive doesn’t affect his confidence too much. Hopefully he can stay clear of the niggly injuries that he picked up at the end of last season and get back to his pre-injury form.
Theo Walcott has a big year ahead of him. A hat-trick away in Croatia for England looked like the moment when he may finally begin to regularly produce what his potential has hinted at for so long. Unfortunately an injury has delayed his start to the season but may be back after the international break. Another who could probably play anywhere in the front three, and also offers the most pace out of the strikers, Theo will be hoping to finally deliver this year and cement his place in the England squad, this time deservedly and not some bizarre experiment as it seemed to be in 2006.
Carlos Vela picked up an ankle injury while away with Mexico last month so he’s another one who has had his start to the season delayed. Also one who will benefit from the new formation as I think he looks a better bet in a more central role, if not as the main striker. Looked decent in spells last year, here’s hoping he can transfer some of his League Cup form over to the bigger games.
So there we have it, assuming nobody else emerges from the youth ranks, that is our squad until January. Going through it in this way has made me think we are stronger than I would have first thought. Perhaps a bit more strength in depth at centre back and a defensive central midfielder to cover Song (and maybe one of those world class goalkeepers I mentioned) would be a priority I guess but as far as first eleven goes we look in pretty good shape. Let us hope we have some luck with injuries, which we have lacked in each of the last two years, and perhaps we can achieve something this season with this squad.
Robin van Persie seems to have graduated to the role of first choice striker after a fine season in 2008/09 and the departure of Adebayor. He probably had his best season in an Arsenal shirt and this coincided with a spell without a serious injury, which have often blighted the Dutchman. 20 goals last season finally proved that he can be prolific in front of goal as well as providing for others, which seemed to be his strength. Has started this season well and despite not getting off the mark has looked good in front of goal and was unlucky not to score against Portsmouth and Man Utd. My biggest concern, with the exception of the aforementioned injuries is that he has started the season as the central striker when I think he would be better suited further out left or right in the front three we play with now.
This brings me on to our next striker, Nicklas Bendtner. Bendtner has started in a wide role and should probably play through the middle. It’s a strange one, to look at Bendtner you would say he is a typical big centre forward but the way he plays suggest that he or Wenger fancy him as something else. Often used on the left last season, he has started this season on the right of our front three. I can’t understand why he doesn’t swap with van Persie, after all this is a very similar role to the one van Persie plays for his national side. Having signed a new contract this week it’s a big season for Nicklas, especially as he is the main big man in the squad now his old friend Adebayor has left.
Eduardo is the best finisher in the squad and has looked sharp so far this season. Also has the benefit of being versatile enough to play anywhere across the front three. I hope all this rubbish about his dive doesn’t affect his confidence too much. Hopefully he can stay clear of the niggly injuries that he picked up at the end of last season and get back to his pre-injury form.
Theo Walcott has a big year ahead of him. A hat-trick away in Croatia for England looked like the moment when he may finally begin to regularly produce what his potential has hinted at for so long. Unfortunately an injury has delayed his start to the season but may be back after the international break. Another who could probably play anywhere in the front three, and also offers the most pace out of the strikers, Theo will be hoping to finally deliver this year and cement his place in the England squad, this time deservedly and not some bizarre experiment as it seemed to be in 2006.
Carlos Vela picked up an ankle injury while away with Mexico last month so he’s another one who has had his start to the season delayed. Also one who will benefit from the new formation as I think he looks a better bet in a more central role, if not as the main striker. Looked decent in spells last year, here’s hoping he can transfer some of his League Cup form over to the bigger games.
So there we have it, assuming nobody else emerges from the youth ranks, that is our squad until January. Going through it in this way has made me think we are stronger than I would have first thought. Perhaps a bit more strength in depth at centre back and a defensive central midfielder to cover Song (and maybe one of those world class goalkeepers I mentioned) would be a priority I guess but as far as first eleven goes we look in pretty good shape. Let us hope we have some luck with injuries, which we have lacked in each of the last two years, and perhaps we can achieve something this season with this squad.
Thursday, 3 September 2009
Midfield
Continuing my look at our squad for the 2009/10 season, today I will be going through Arsenal’s midfield.
First up the man who wrapped up yesterday’s review of the defence, Alex Song. One of Arsenal’s most improved players of recent years, I don’t think anyone anticipated him developing into the player he has become, and threatens to develop into. Well, with the possible exception of Mr Wenger. It’s a massive season for Song and his role in the squad is huge. As Arsenal’s only natural defensive midfielder, much will depend on his form and his luck with injuries. Also he may be disappearing for a month if Cameroon qualify for the African Cup of Nations. While he can cover at the back, as our main defensive midfielder and with 5 centre backs in the squad, it’s unlikely he will be asked to. I have a suspicion however that Wenger sees him as a defender in the long term.
Denilson seems to be one of those players who doesn’t excel in any major way but ticks lots of boxes. He gets through loads of running and is a decent tackler and passer, although he gives it away a little too much. He also has a pretty good shot on him at times and scores the odd goal. But he doesn’t really set the world alight in any one area and is the kind of player who you may fail to see in a game despite the work he does. Probably closest to being able to replace Song in a defensive midfielder role but really must cut out giving it away cheaply to really improve his game.
I don’t think there is much I can say about Fabregas that hasn’t already been said. Let’s just hope he stays fit and away from Barcelona’s clutches.
Abou Diaby must be the most frustrating player in Arsenal’s current squad. He can look both amazingly talented and completely clueless in the same game, as the game on Saturday against Man Utd demonstrated. The most ridiculous own goal followed by a great run which almost ended in a goal at the other end. If he can stay injury free, a big if, we will hopefully get to see the real Diaby.
Samir Nasri had a good first season and is unlucky to start this season with an injury. I think he is one who could be helped by our new 4-3-3 formation as he seems to have more joy through the middle than out wide.
Andrey Arshavin showed last season, and again against Man Utd, what Wenger was referring to when he said he was only looking to buy super quality players last season. The little Russian has looked a class act and hopefully he can have a big impact in his first full season.
Tomas Rosicky just needs to get fit. Nothing else needs to be said at the moment.
Jack Wilshire, Fran Merida and Aaron Ramsey will all be hoping to get as much playing time as possible and hopefully a bit more time to show what they can do in the Carling Cup. I don’t think its right to put too much pressure on these young lads just yet so anything from them at the moment is a bonus.
The biggest change this season has been the formation. Pretty much exclusively a 4-4-2 man, Wenger has begun this season with a 4-3-3 system with the team playing a high pressing game. I’m sure Barcelona will agree that imitation is the sincerest from of flattery. I think this formation suits us best with the players we have. Without any real wingers in the squad this seems to be a good fit. Also without a really dominant defensive midfielder, playing three in the middle makes sense. Much will depend on luck with injuries but so far, even taking the defeat at Old Trafford into account, the first signs are positive.
Friday I’ll analyse the front men.
First up the man who wrapped up yesterday’s review of the defence, Alex Song. One of Arsenal’s most improved players of recent years, I don’t think anyone anticipated him developing into the player he has become, and threatens to develop into. Well, with the possible exception of Mr Wenger. It’s a massive season for Song and his role in the squad is huge. As Arsenal’s only natural defensive midfielder, much will depend on his form and his luck with injuries. Also he may be disappearing for a month if Cameroon qualify for the African Cup of Nations. While he can cover at the back, as our main defensive midfielder and with 5 centre backs in the squad, it’s unlikely he will be asked to. I have a suspicion however that Wenger sees him as a defender in the long term.
Denilson seems to be one of those players who doesn’t excel in any major way but ticks lots of boxes. He gets through loads of running and is a decent tackler and passer, although he gives it away a little too much. He also has a pretty good shot on him at times and scores the odd goal. But he doesn’t really set the world alight in any one area and is the kind of player who you may fail to see in a game despite the work he does. Probably closest to being able to replace Song in a defensive midfielder role but really must cut out giving it away cheaply to really improve his game.
I don’t think there is much I can say about Fabregas that hasn’t already been said. Let’s just hope he stays fit and away from Barcelona’s clutches.
Abou Diaby must be the most frustrating player in Arsenal’s current squad. He can look both amazingly talented and completely clueless in the same game, as the game on Saturday against Man Utd demonstrated. The most ridiculous own goal followed by a great run which almost ended in a goal at the other end. If he can stay injury free, a big if, we will hopefully get to see the real Diaby.
Samir Nasri had a good first season and is unlucky to start this season with an injury. I think he is one who could be helped by our new 4-3-3 formation as he seems to have more joy through the middle than out wide.
Andrey Arshavin showed last season, and again against Man Utd, what Wenger was referring to when he said he was only looking to buy super quality players last season. The little Russian has looked a class act and hopefully he can have a big impact in his first full season.
Tomas Rosicky just needs to get fit. Nothing else needs to be said at the moment.
Jack Wilshire, Fran Merida and Aaron Ramsey will all be hoping to get as much playing time as possible and hopefully a bit more time to show what they can do in the Carling Cup. I don’t think its right to put too much pressure on these young lads just yet so anything from them at the moment is a bonus.
The biggest change this season has been the formation. Pretty much exclusively a 4-4-2 man, Wenger has begun this season with a 4-3-3 system with the team playing a high pressing game. I’m sure Barcelona will agree that imitation is the sincerest from of flattery. I think this formation suits us best with the players we have. Without any real wingers in the squad this seems to be a good fit. Also without a really dominant defensive midfielder, playing three in the middle makes sense. Much will depend on luck with injuries but so far, even taking the defeat at Old Trafford into account, the first signs are positive.
Friday I’ll analyse the front men.
Wednesday, 2 September 2009
Squad
The transfer window closed yesterday and, as expected, there weren’t any more signings by Arsenal. So this is the squad we are stuck with, until January at least. Since Arsenal news is likely to be thin over the next week due to the international games, it might be a good time to have a look at our squad and see how it is shaping up for the season ahead.
First up, the goalkeepers and defence.
I don’t think anyone would argue that Manuel Almunia hasn’t improved vastly since being promoted to number one. However there were many over the summer who felt that this was an area that could have been improved but I’m not so sure. Don’t get me wrong, there are better goalkeepers in the world than Manuel but to buy a real top class goalkeeper would have cost a fortune and as this isn’t a priority for Wenger we are stuck with Manuel for another season. I feel he’s a good shot stopper but my only concern is in big games, as we saw over the weekend against Man Utd, Manuel has a tendency to make the wrong decision about coming off his line. Still, he continues to improve and I feel reasonably confident about another season with Manuel as our number one. As for back up I feel we could do slightly better, with perhaps a more experienced reserve goalie, but success can come down to luck and how often we need to call on our back up in this position. Fabianski showed last season that he still has a lot to learn so let’s hope Manuel stays fit.
Bacary Sagna was going to have a hard time replicating his excellent first season form and I think it’s fair to say last season was slightly below his best. Despite this he remains one of the best in the league but I would like to see him improve his crossing to go with his solid defensive play. Emmanuel Eboue, if used as 2nd choice right back is more than capable cover and I feel this is his best position.
Gael Clichy also slightly dipped below his best last year. A few mistakes seem to stay with him and he struggled to recapture his best form. Despite this, he also remains among the best in his position in the league, and hopefully he can get back to his best this season. We seem spoilt in this department with Kieran Gibbs and Armand Traore providing decent cover for
William Gallas has started this season as he ended the last; in great form. Since his outburst and subsequently losing the captaincy he seems to have a point to prove. As a result his form has been tremendous and long may it continue. At this rate perhaps even a new contract may be on the cards.
His new central defensive partner Thomas Vermaelen has started his Arsenal career well and looks a great buy. He seems to compliment Gallas well and while is not the tallest he seems to make up for it with his positioning. He had a good game against Man Utd, which was his first big test, and hopefully he can keep it up.
We have three, maybe four, who can cover here. Johan Djourou, injured at the start of the season, really needs a good season if he is to make the grade at Arsenal but may find chances limited.
Philippe Senderos looked like he was on his way to Everton about a month ago and it is not clear if we were unable to line up a replacement or Everton got cold feet but Philippe remains an Arsenal player for now. I like Senderos and it would be great if he could push for a first team spot but can’t help thinking he is more suited to a slower league such as Serie A.
Mikael Silvestre also provides cover here, and at left back if needed, but I think the less said about him the better.
Alex Song, interestingly listed under defenders on Arsenal.com, can also provide cover here but with our lack of defensive midfielders I wouldn’t expect to see him play many games at centre back, despite looking comfortable on most occasions when asked to play here.
Tomorrow I’ll go through the midfield.
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