Arsenal

[Rossy Boy]

i know it is ridiciulous we should be one of the teams challenging for the title

[Dragonfly]

It's not even half way through the season people. Things are going to change for the better, I know it. When it comes to the end of the season people are going to say "if only Arsenal started the season like the way they performed in the second half of the season, they would've won the league then, easily".

You'll see. You'll all see.

EDIT: I realise it implies we're not gonna win the league, which, unfortunately, we're not.

[Rossy Boy]

i hope i will see that

[vanNistelrooy]

Watching the highlights on Football First at the moment. Damn they're running you ragged. Don't know what all the hype over van Persie's free kick was about. Goalie's side, not that high, should have saved it. Just Paul Merson talking out of his lady lips again.

[Viperized]

Yes you do. The final UEFA cup spot is starting to look like a distant dream :tongue:
If we win our game in hand we'll be 3rd.

Watching the highlights on Football First at the moment. Damn they're running you ragged. Don't know what all the hype over van Persie's free kick was about. Goalie's side, not that high, should have saved it. Just Paul Merson talking out of his lady lips again.
The free-kick looked sweetly struck from the stream I was watching.

I don't have skysports anymore so I'll have to wait for MoTD... :\

[Pierre]

We can see the skill of our players, we just need to stop being like everything in this shitty era of ours were we demand instant "gratification"

I bet there would half as many whingers if Chelsea didnt get taken over by the Russian Baron....

Man Utd are doing well but reastically will ahve to by a whole 11 in the summer...

We need to add strength, aggression, bite and grit to our young players, and im glad its that rather than trying to add skill...

Its much more striaghtforward and attainable adding grit to youth players than technique and skill...

[Viperized]

Muamba is an aggressive and combative midfielder.

I hope he comes back to us and makes it. He looks like a good young player and could replace Gilberto.

Watching the highlights on Football First at the moment. Damn they're running you ragged. Don't know what all the hype over van Persie's free kick was about. Goalie's side, not that high, should have saved it. Just Paul Merson talking out of his lady lips again.
Just saw the goal again on MoTD and I thought it was a sweet FK.

Loads of power and accuracy. Van Persie looks like a great free-kick taker. I agree though, Fulham were outplaying us. They had many chances to increase the scoreline. Our defence was extremely sloppy.

[Dragonfly]

I just watched MOTD and our defenders were a disgrace. We were lucky to lose 2-1.

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

See you in the Inter-toto.

[Nturtle]

Well...what can I say...sucky suck...and what a poor ill-thought out time to introduce Song...it can only have dented and killed his confidence..being subbed at half time.

Terrible result...terrible defending...Gallas - Djourou anyone?!?! Bah...it doesn't matter...let's just play and forget the title...just kick some ass now...win the Derby against Spurs and Chelsea...and it'll be just an ok season.

[Canadian, Eh?]

I would have to say we are playing for third, that being said we could win against Tottenham and lose to Chelsea and still be ok I think.

[vanNistelrooy]

Anyone see the interview with Wenger last night? Comedy as usual! Was moaning about a midweek game with the Champions League next week. Arsene, you're not the only club in that position! Yet none of them lost did they? Idiot.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Things doesn't look well, losing to Fulham the first time in five years. I am ashamed.

[Nturtle]

Anyone see the interview with Wenger last night? Comedy as usual! Was moaning about a midweek game with the Champions League next week. Arsene, you're not the only club in that position! Yet none of them lost did they? Idiot.

Thanks VN - I don't think you are alone as a fan of another team to say Wenger moans...even us Gunners know he moans...but it's not really worth repeating...

Wenger doesn't have much excuse this time to field a team that is half-baked...:no:

Problems -

Mental
Defensive lapses
Set-pieces (attack/defence)
Possibly formation

Arsene...it's over to you! :unsure:

[vanNistelrooy]

"Wenger out" chants already?

[Dragonfly]

Anyone see the interview with Wenger last night? Comedy as usual! Was moaning about a midweek game with the Champions League next week. Arsene, you're not the only club in that position! Yet none of them lost did they? Idiot.

I agree. I heard him say it, then I felt embarassed for him. :blush: What are the FA meant to do. That's what you get for playing in European cups.

[Viperized]

See you in the Inter-toto.
1. Arsenal are ahead of Liverpool.
2. Arsenal have a game in hand.

So no. :)

"Wenger out" chants already?
Where?

[Dragonfly]

Viperized, you need to take what people say with a pinch of salt. :)

We'll make the Champions League. I have no doubt about it.

[Yi-Long]

Wenger shouldnt worry too much. If they keep performing like they've done this season, they'll have lots of spare time next season.

It's amazing they're losing these games. Shocking. :no:

[Canadian, Eh?]

I still believe that if we play half baked like we are we will finish in third.

That being said, Flamini comes out and says he hates playing left back, and Wenger plays him...Was Traore not available I wonder.

Edit:

Also the only reason I can see Wenger complaining about the fixtures is that Chelsea don't have a weekend game, coming up.

[Viperized]

Wenger was able to select Clichy. Oddly enough he chose not to.

[Tigermen]

Things doesn't look well, losing to Fulham the first time in five years. I am ashamed.

Try forty mate. :(

[Viperized]

Next game... Spurs.

I can't see us winning to be honest, given our poor performances. Yes, my faith is gone. Shoot me.

[Rambo]

Spurs are not good away from home, so you should win

[ThierryHenry14]

but then again were not that good at home

[Viperized]

We're not good at home when teams sit back like a bunch of stuffed lemons.

Sp*rs don't play on the defensive, and that helps I suppose.

[vanNistelrooy]

Also the only reason I can see Wenger complaining about the fixtures is that Chelsea don't have a weekend game, coming up.
Yeah why the hell is that???

Who else misses a game then?

[Pierre]

We will finish in the champions league spot... purely because we will have a full season of RVP....

He will shine this season and is already level with henry on goals scored in all competitions...

also, the squad will settle down and bounce bback stronger...

[Joel]

Yeah why the hell is that???

Who else misses a game then?

Because Newcastle had a UEFA Cup game yesterday (Thursday), they do not want to play on Saturday and because Chelsea have a Champions League game on Tuesday, they do not want to play on Sunday.

Obviously the fixture is Chelsea vs Newcastle.

[Canadian, Eh?]

Wenger was able to select Clichy. Oddly enough he chose not to.

Its called resting a player who runs a shit load everygame....just like he did with Eboue.

[pistolpete]

Wenger was able to select Clichy. Oddly enough he chose not to.


Maybe he was tapped up by Chelski?!

Cant really understand why Wenger rested Clichy, Eboue, and Fabregas who are all very young -
and played Henry (recovering from an injury),
and Gilberto (looked way off the pace)


Why did Wenger think that the Bolton game was a better one to start Theo in?

Why dont our strikers make runs and just stand and wait for Gilberto/ Song/ Senderos/ Flamini/ Hoyte to play poor balls up to them or play them into trouble?
So many questions - so few obvious answers.

The team looked lost on the pitch, there was no application or conviction in our play - it was only Fulham.
How far away from the 03/04 season we are where every player on our team would win their individual battle, hate to say it but Chelsea remind me of that now - without the sexy football.

Oh well - Im sure Wenger is as frustrated as we are and i wouldnt want anyone else trying to sort out the mess,
IMO we are lucky that the teams around us are all poor and if we win our game in hand we are up to 3rd - ManUre and Chelski are way too strong.

[Pierre]

George Graham is right, we need a couple of leaders...

I would love to get Gerrard, buts thats just a dream really...

Too many senior players, past it or not, have left in a short space of time

[Viperized]

Its just that Henry is a shit captain.

Toure would be a fantastic captain. He is always encouraging, always helping and he leads by example.

[Jake Small]

I would think strikers in general would make bad captains. They need to be selfish, they need things to go their way, and their hope to make their mark once or twice a game once everything falls into place in that one moment of magic, and they have a necessary level of aggression (usually).

All poor captain qualities, I'd much rather have a midfielder captain or a defender, who doesnt get pissed off when one little thing goes wrong because he has a better idea of the big picture on the pitch.

[Viperized]

I would think strikers in general would make bad captains. They need to be selfish, they need things to go their way, and their hope to make their mark once or twice a game once everything falls into place in that one moment of magic, and they have a necessary level of aggression (usually).

All poor captain qualities, I'd much rather have a midfielder captain or a defender, who doesnt get pissed off when one little thing goes wrong because he has a better idea of the big picture on the pitch.
You've just made a perfect description of Henry as a captain.

He has no work rate, is always giving 'The Stare' at the younger players when fucking up, is always expected the ball to be played at his feet, and is generally not doing anything this season.

The only game in which he actually ran was against Liverpool.

[nikos24]

Is Henry really performing like shit these days? I think they made a mistake to make him captain. Yes, the guy is still brilliant and is the old Henry I know, but these two previous posts sums up exactly what I think about him right now. Bad choice, whoever made Henry capitan.

Should have been Lehmann, atleast he's got a strong voice.

[CaptainCabinet]

All poor captain qualities, I'd much rather have a midfielder captain or a defender, who doesnt get pissed off when one little thing goes wrong because he has a better idea of the big picture on the pitch.

Not only that but you can't lead a team if you are the front man, as you have no-one infront of you to lead. With a defender/keeper as captain they can lead the line and can organise the midfield and defence a lot better than a striker can.

[ATH10]

Is Henry really performing like shit these days? I think they made a mistake to make him captain. Yes, the guy is still brilliant and is the old Henry I know, but these two previous posts sums up exactly what I think about him right now. Bad choice, whoever made Henry capitan.

Should have been Lehmann, atleast he's got a strong voice.

Captains are meant to lead by example and Lehmann hardly covers himself in glory in that department.

[ThierryHenry14]

i think like Viperized said toure should be captain or gilberto silva would be the best choice i think

[ThierryHenry14]

sorry this is sort of important
henry is going to miss the derby tomorrow we could potentially be in trouble wenger better put a decent team out tomorrow
http://uk.sports.yahoo.com/01122006/2/photo/henry-misses-derby-date-spurs.html

[Pierre]

I think Henry is suffering the effects of losing Bergkamp and to a lesser extent Reyes.....

He thrived on a creative strike partner, and its obvious Ade isnt that, more importantly Van Persie isnt....

Henry and Van Persie are primarily goalscorers, they do not possess the vision of a Bergkamps and at times, Reyes...

Maybe pushing Cesc nearer to him, or Rosicky and play Baptista further back...

[vanNistelrooy]

Losing Bergkamp and Reyes? More like missing Pires.

I had gone with 2-1 Arsenal, but have now changed to 1-1. So will Yabadabadoo play upfront?

[Canadian, Eh?]

Does Viperized ever say anything that doesn't involve calling our players shite?

Henry also missed the game last year at White Hart Lane.

We do miss Reyes alot, if you look back alot of goals were created by perfect passes by Reyes. Rosicky and Hleb neither have that ability from long range.

[Pierre]

I know its a cliche but football aint just about the good times, you gotta take the bad too.....

Youg team = longer devlopment....

I think Hleb could make those through balls but he enjoys beating his man too much!!

Maybe they should tell him to focus on his range of passing more...

[Rossy Boy]

i think you are right Pierre

[Nturtle]

Good discussion chaps. The Captain thing...I can't see it changing too much...and let Henry develop a little...he's under lots of pressure.

For the "other" leaders....they need to lead by example...Ljungerg, Lehman..Toure etc...and in my mind...Gilberto did his best at Bolton...but it was not enough from the others. Senderos was stupid at Fulham...and that's a setback for leadership from him. I would actually say Cesc could be a great captain...but only in a few years when he can actually shave! HA! It is interesting that Wenger mentions Djourour as well, in being a potential leader in the Sun:
ARSENE WENGER slapped down former Arsenal boss George Graham last night and insisted: “I know what I am doing.”


The defiant Frenchman is adamant his youngsters are still on course for glory despite slipping 16 points behind Premiership leaders Manchester United.

And he insisted he will not be making ANY new signings in the January transfer window — no matter how far his team might fall off the pace.

Graham claimed this week the current Arsenal team lacks leadership and are on heading for their third year of failure. But Wenger said: “If I look at the number of titles Arsenal have won, there’s not many who have done better than I have done.

“Everyone will have an opinion when we lose games so these comments don’t annoy me and I don’t even take them in the wrong way.

“But I am not a beginner and I am responsible for what happens. I will do it my way, whether people like it or not.

“I know where I am going with this team and I am confident we will get where I want them go to. When we moved to the new stadium we chose to build a new team.”




Wenger is equally dismissive of Graham’s criticisms about the lack of strong characters and that he had done nothing to replace “seven world-class players in their prime.”

He added: “Frankly it’s very difficult to say Dennis Bergkamp was in his prime at 37 or Robert Pires at 33.

“Sol Campbell wanted to go abroad, Ashley Cole wanted to go to Chelsea, Lauren has a long-term injury. What can I do about that?

“I don’t deny we have lost world-class players but I believe we have replaced them with youngsters who will also become world class.

“Kolo Toure, Cesc Fabregas and Johan Djourou will all grow into leaders. When this team has belief we will be irresistible like we have been before.”

Onto spurs...and Henry is missing again...what's the plan Arsene?

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

I agree with Graham for one part but he' does not have the right to criticise us. When Graham was in charge, the way we play is just like the current Everton and it was Wenger who actually bought in the attacking strategy. We are not definitely not our oldself, remember back in the days when it only took us a few passes to break a defense? The current Arsenal is too slow due to the fact that we pass the ball too much.

Any chance of us getting a striker in December? because watching Adebayor plays is really hurtful at times.

I wish Baptista will start ahead of Adebayor but that doesn't seem likely. Then Hleb and Rosicky will play ahead of Freddie. The last but not least, I do hope Walcott will start.

[Nturtle]

How much credability does The Mirror have?

THIERRY BUST-UP
EXCLUSIVE
By John Cross

THIERRY HENRY stormed out of Arsenal's training ground after a bust-up with Arsene Wenger yesterday.

French striker Henry (above) was desperate to play in today's north London derby against Tottenham - but Gunners boss Wenger insisted that he was not ready.

It left Henry angry and upset and he stormed out without training yesterday, devastated at being told he could not play.


Advertisement



Henry has been suffering with a neck injury but played in Wednesday's defeat at Fulham and Wenger did not believe he was fit to face Tottenham.


It casts a shadow over the Arsenal captain's future at the club as he has been left deeply unhappy at the Gunners falling 16 points behind Premiership leaders Manchester United.


Wenger, who put on a brave face at Henry's absence and claimed he was just injured, is left facing a major crisis ahead of today's north London derby.


Wenger's team is out of form and now his captain and star player is deeply upset.


Henry, who turned down a multi-million pound move to Barcelona last summer to commit himself to a long-term deal with Arsenal, is also believed to be unhappy at the club's failure to match Chelsea and Manchester United in the transfer market.


In a clear dig at the club, Henry claimed in a television interview this week that Arsenal can still match Chelsea and United on the pitch - but have not kept up with their spending power.


When asked whether Arsenal were behind Chelsea and United, Henry said: "When it comes to the game on the pitch, no. When it comes to buying players, yes."


The Gunners have been struggling to keep up despite moving to the £390m Emirates Stadium and now, it seems, Henry is growing discontented.

[ThierryHenry14]

im begining to think we should of stayed at highbury or made it bigger

[Viperized]

Does Viperized ever say anything that doesn't involve calling our players shite?

Henry also missed the game last year at White Hart Lane.

We do miss Reyes alot, if you look back alot of goals were created by perfect passes by Reyes. Rosicky and Hleb neither have that ability from long range.
Did I call Henry shite?

It's a fact that Henry is a shit captain, and I only commented on the lack of Henry's work rate.

But its a shame he'll miss this game today. I'm 100% sure he would've been up for it, as he knows what the derby is all about.

Starting lineup, confirmed:

Lehmann

Eboue
Toure
Djourou
Clichy

Ljungberg (No Hleb! :()
Fabregas
Gilberto
Rosicky

Van Persie
Henry

Bench: Almunia, Baptista, Walcott, Hleb, Hoyte.

Is Henry really performing like shit these days? I think they made a mistake to make him captain. Yes, the guy is still brilliant and is the old Henry I know, but these two previous posts sums up exactly what I think about him right now. Bad choice, whoever made Henry capitan.

Should have been Lehmann, atleast he's got a strong voice.
Well, Henry isn't performing like shit, but he has been generally very poor - I blamed 451 because of this but its also because Henry doesn't appear to run for the ball anyone.

He still has scored 5 goals, but Van Persie has outscored him.

How much credability does The Mirror have?
I've heard that was true, except the fact that Henry was 100% fit.

[ATH10]

Did I call Henry shite?

It's a fact that Henry is a shit captain, and I only commented on the lack of Henry's work rate.

But its a shame he'll miss this game today. I'm 100% sure he would've been up for it, as he knows what the derby is all about.

Starting lineup, confirmed:

Lehmann

Eboue
Toure
Djourou
Clichy

Ljungberg (No Hleb! :()
Fabregas
Gilberto
Rosicky

Van Persie
Henry

Bench: Almunia, Baptista, Walcott, Hleb, Hoyte.

Henry? thought he was injured.

[Viperized]

Oops.

I meant Adebayor..

I don't know why I typed Henry :erm:

[vanNistelrooy]

Henry isn't playing, you pleb! :lol:

Mr Arsenal is refereeing the game I see.

[Viperized]

Adebayor!!! 1-0!!!

Ljungberg wasted a golden opportunity to make it 2-0. Pfft.

[Yi-Long]

Why isnt Walcott in the starting line-up? Surely he's good enough!?

[CaptainCabinet]

Never a pen, well taken though.

[ThierryHenry14]

2-0 gilberto penalty looks good so far

[vanNistelrooy]

Well done Mr Arsenal. I'm surprised he didn't lake you take a quick penalty, he seems to with all your free kicks near goal.

How wank is Spurs left back?

[CaptainCabinet]

Very?

[ThierryHenry14]

im not saying what the final result is but at the moment i can't wait until monday cause my pe teacher supports spurs

[CaptainCabinet]

I'd like to say Poll has made two penalty mistakes, however that one wasn't a Spot Kick in a million years.

[Cannon ball]

Never a pen, well taken though.

True never a pen, feel a bit for Spurs, but then again, I remember when Spurs won a penalty against you guys (Zokora's dive) now the same has happened to them. Thats footy I guess.

[CaptainCabinet]

Not really, ours was more harsh, they should be out the league for that! :tongue:.

[ThierryHenry14]

hey guys i don't have sky is there a website where i can watch this game

[vanNistelrooy]

Eboue disgusts me. I felt he made a meal out of the Davies push. Although Davies should have been sent off, Eboue seemed to through himself down half way through.

Today against Spurs, he gets caught on the heel and Mr Arsenal stops play (which he shouldn't have as it wasn't a head injury) and when Malbranque said something he got up as if nothing was wrong, then went down again 2 seconds later and hobbled off. Twat. Must be having memory lapses after nearly losing his head up at Bolton.

[CaptainCabinet]

Well put sir. Did I hear right, that Graham said it was a penalty?!

[vanNistelrooy]

Well put who?

I didn't hear, but he's a twat so he probably did. He pronounces Alex Ferguson as AleC Ferguson. I hate retards that do that.

[CaptainCabinet]

Well put you. I agree with your point about Eboue, and the one about Graham.

[Nturtle]

I'd like to say Poll has made two penalty mistakes, however that one wasn't a Spot Kick in a million years.

Poll seems strange today...crazy decisions...not penalising Spurs players for taking out Arsenal players when not near the ball!! :realmad:

[Stella Artois]

vanNistelrooy, shut it.

Nice let the Yids know we're the only side in North London worth talking about.

[vanNistelrooy]

vanNistelrooy, shut it.

Nice let the Yids know we're the only side in North London worth talking about.

Graham Poll 3-0 Tottenham

They say you have 3 away games in a row. Who's the third one against?

[Nturtle]

Mmm..another one this time Adebayour on Tanio Teemu...silly Poll!

[Jonny2J]

That 2nd one was definitely a penalty, don't know how anyone could say otherwise.

[Nturtle]

How can Jenas not be sent off for using his arms on Ljungberg??!?! HA!

[vanNistelrooy]

That 2nd one was definitely a penalty, don't know how anyone could say otherwise.
I thought RvP handballed it in the buildup to the penalty?

Ever since Arsenal lost 3-1 at home to Newcastle, and Henry and a couple others tried to beat Poll up he's always seemed to give Arsenal key decisions, and usually he gets chosen for the "big" games.

Still, out of the two teams Arsenal deserved it.

How can Jenas not be sent off for using his arms on Ljungberg??!?! HA!
Becuase that's probably the 10th time Freddy's gone down today, this being the only genuine time.

[Nturtle]

LOL VN...nice commentary!! (Sarcasm intended)...not sure what you mean about Poll...reckon he's taking a few bob??! Bloody silly comment about "choosing him for big games" mate...

Overall...we played well...a few defensive lapses still...but great result and dominating quite a bit.

Eboue needs to calm down...and bloody well defend properly...lazy as hell he is...and only wants to attack. Great shot and even better save by Robinson...but damn me...our right side is weaker defensively than the left...

Ljungberg is a bit better...back to his old self a bit...but the player for me was VP...hard working and charging down all opponents across the pitch.

[vanNistelrooy]

Bloody silly comment about "choosing him for big games" mate...
I'm pretty sure it was him who refereed the United vs Arsenal game too. Your games against Chelski seem to have Poll too. I'm sure you had a game where he let Henry take (and possibly score) a quick free kick, and in the same game the opposition tried to take a quick one and he pulled it back.

After that Newcastle game didn't Arsenal refuse to allow Poll to ref any of their games or something?

[Joel]

I'm pretty sure it was him who refereed the United vs Arsenal game too. Your games against Chelski seem to have Poll too. I'm sure you had a game where he let Henry take (and possibly score) a quick free kick, and in the same game the opposition tried to take a quick one and he pulled it back.

After that Newcastle game didn't Arsenal refuse to allow Poll to ref any of their games or something?

Yup. In the Arsenal vs Chelsea game in 2004, Graham Poll ASKED Henry if he wanted to take it quick...what kind of referee asks player if they want to take it quick?!?!

[vanNistelrooy]

Wasn't there a game where he allowed it for Arsenal but when the other team tried he didn't allow it?

[Joel]

I don't know, but I wouldn't put it past him.

[Viperized]

3-0, fantastic result.

I didn't catch the second half, so I am unable to comment regarding the second penalty, but I do agree the first penalty shouldn't have been given.

And VN, how can you say Graham Poll 3-0 Spurs? Are you telling me the first goal should've been disallowed, and was scored thanks to Poll?

Eboue disgusts me. I felt he made a meal out of the Davies push. Although Davies should have been sent off, Eboue seemed to through himself down half way through.
As Eboue fell down, he smacked his head to the ground, so no, he didn't make a meal out of the Davies push.

I do agree with the Malbranque incident though.

[Figо10]

What's with van Persie attempting to disguise handballs these matches? Should've been a yellow card. Other than that, the second penalty decision was correct.

As for the first penalty, Chimbonda did get the ball first but only so slightly, and Rosicky couldn't help tumbling over as he was at full speed and caught after getting tackled. Referee error but that was nothing compared to the recent ones he's been making.

[vanNistelrooy]

As Eboue fell down, he smacked his head to the ground, so no, he didn't make a meal out of the Davies push.

I do agree with the Malbranque incident though.

Watch the slow motion replay from behind Davies. He gets pushed, and before he goes off camera his fall speeds up dramatically.

[Scarface]

Not a bad result from the "one man team", considering the one man that makes the team was missing.

Good performance from Van Persie. It's good to see him working much harder, recently.

Poll had a poor game, making many errors, both to the advantage and disadvantage of each team. He wasn't pro-Arsenal. Much. ;)

It was good to see us getting a bit of luck, that we've been missing lately. I'll openly admit i'm not a fan of Adebayor, but if he continues to score against our big rivals, he can stay at the club for as long as he likes. :)

Anyway, well deserved win. Hopefully we can keep this up, now.

[Canadian, Eh?]

My Quote:
'Does Viperized ever say anything that doesn't involve calling our players shite?

Henry also missed the game last year at White Hart Lane.

We do miss Reyes alot, if you look back alot of goals were created by perfect passes by Reyes. Rosicky and Hleb neither have that ability from long range.'

Viperized Quote:

Did I call Henry shite?

It's a fact that Henry is a shit captain, and I only commented on the lack of Henry's work rate.

But its a shame he'll miss this game today. I'm 100% sure he would've been up for it, as he knows what the derby is all about.


What!

I didn't say you called Henry shite. However on countless opinions you have called many other players shit, including Hleb.

But its done, when we lose you say we should change everything. But end of.

Ok win today we looked in control. The first penalty never was one, but from where Poll was he had to call it. The third was a phantom penalty and if you call it then you have to give a red since it was a clear goal opportunity.

But on to Porto!

[Yossi]

I agree with vN and Joel Best on how Poll favours Arsenal. There are the decisions mentioned, and the time at Carrow Road the other year in the Arsenal game. It was 1-0 to Arsenal at the time, and Huckerby managed to break free, clean through, middle of the pitch, about 40 yards from goal, when Lauren hacked him down with no defenders within ten yards. Yellow. Not sure whether it were bias or he just bottled it for some reason, but whatever it was, I have never forgot that incident and I doubt I ever will. Still pisses me off now.

[vanNistelrooy]

I remember that. That's Lauren though. Is he still injured and will he get his place back?

I actually called who the ref would be today. Who do you think it will be when Arsenal visit Stamford Bridge?

[Joel]

I remember that. That's Lauren though. Is he still injured and will he get his place back?

I actually called who the ref would be today. Who do you think it will be when Arsenal visit Stamford Bridge?

Most likely another imbicile.....Mike Riley?

[Nturtle]

HA! I'm getting your point about Poll VN...but I'm really not sure that refs can be "selected" otherwise we'd be in Germany...or Italy!! HA!

My man of the match was VP...even with his arm in the way (but notice Jenas holding his arm there)...for the penalty decision.

Onto Porto!

[ThierryHenry14]

i reckon if we win at porto we have a chance against chelsea we beat man u we can beat chelsea

[vanNistelrooy]

i reckon if we win at porto we have a chance against chelsea we beat man u we can beat chelsea
That is the most stupid theory ever. If only it was that simple! You beat us so you should be able to beat Fulham. See, doesn't work.

Still, it'll be a good game when you play Liverpool. Hopefully Henry will be fit (and still at the club) by then.

[Del Piero]

I reckon Henry could be on his way out! What do u reckon guys?

Also was a bit disappointed to watch you yesterday, you should have had one penalty and that was when dawson jumped all over lgjunberg (dont know how to spell it) that score line did you justice

[Rossy Boy]

ljungberg mate :)

Jenas should of been sent off for grabbing ljungberg by the neck and chucking him to the ground

[Jonny2J]

ljungberg mate :)

Jenas should of been sent off for grabbing ljungberg by the neck and chucking him to the groundJenas should be sent off for being Jenas.

[Del Piero]

ljungberg mate :)

Jenas should of been sent off for grabbing ljungberg by the neck and chucking him to the ground


Ooops :w00t I wasnt even close! :laugh:

Yeah thats true.

[Rossy Boy]

Jenas should be sent off for being Jenas.

:laugh: very true

[Scarface]

I reckon Henry could be on his way out! What do u reckon guys?


More chance of Mary Poppins landing on the moon.

[Rossy Boy]

Henry wont leave the club

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

I reckon Henry could be on his way out! What do u reckon guys?

Also was a bit disappointed to watch you yesterday, you should have had one penalty and that was when dawson jumped all over lgjunberg (dont know how to spell it) that score line did you justice

Henry professes love of Liverpool

Henry has bust up week that Liverpool entertain potential investment

Liverpool look to have sorted investment

Oh please god....
















Hey I can dream!

[Del Piero]

Yeah but no but yeah but

I reckon he will

PLACE YOUR BETS PLACE YOUR BETS!

[Del Piero]

Gerrard and Henry secret gay lovers =

Henry joins Liverpool!

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

Gerrard and Henry secret gay lovers =

Henry joins Liverpool!


Listen if that's what it takes I will even join in to get him here!

[Jonny2J]

Listen if that's what it takes I will even join in to get him here!ScouseMike's already way ahead of you with regards to Gerrard.

[Canadian, Eh?]

We drew Liverpool in the FA Cup, also in the Carling Cup. Interesting games.

[Viperized]

However on countless opinions you have called many other players shit, including Hleb.
Completely wrong. Stop chatting out of your arse. I've not called Hleb shit.

I've said countless of times that Hleb has been one of our best players this season.

However, during the Fulham match, I have criticized some of the players such as Song.

But it was a knee-jerk reaction anyhow. But to be fair, every single one of our players on the pitch that day were completely crap, except Van Persie.

We drew Liverpool in the FA Cup, also in the Carling Cup. Interesting games.
And both games are at Anfield too.

[vanNistelrooy]

And both games are at Anfield too.
Both resulting in Arsenal victories (I hope).

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

Rafas record at home in the FA Cup ? 0 Losses.

Come to think of it the last time we lost at home in a major cup was his first game in charge Graz AK and we went on to win the comp. :D

[vanNistelrooy]

Rafas record at home in the FA Cup ? 0 Losses.

Come to think of it the last time we lost at home in a major cup was his first game in charge Graz AK and we went on to win the comp. :D
Records are there to be broken ;)

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

Records are there to be broken ;)

So were bones last time you came to Anfield in said comp. ;)

[vanNistelrooy]

So were bones last time you came to Anfield in said comp. ;)
That was low Rafa, very low (like your league position) ;)

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

That was low Rafa, very low (like your league position) ;)

Or your trophy haul of the last few years say?

[vanNistelrooy]

Or your trophy haul of the last few years say?
Yes, only the Carling Cup and FA Cup since our last PREMIERSHIP title. You do know what one of those looks like don't you? You're going to win it according to your posts a few months back :)

Anyway as much as I love banter with you this is starting to go off topic and I have an exam in the morning so must go to bed.

Laters.

[Viperized]

Rafas record at home in the FA Cup ? 0 Losses.

Come to think of it the last time we lost at home in a major cup was his first game in charge Graz AK and we went on to win the comp. :D
I'd like to know the teams you've faced at Anfield in the F.A. Cup.

[Nturtle]

Well...damn away draw again...but hey...3-0 in the league...why not hey? Good to blood our youngsters in tough matches.

RE: Henry...reports are he'll be out until the new year on extended leave...bugger...but hey..this might be the chance for Baptista or Aliadiere...

[Canadian, Eh?]

Well...damn away draw again...but hey...3-0 in the league...why not hey? Good to blood our youngsters in tough matches.

RE: Henry...reports are he'll be out until the new year on extended leave...bugger...but hey..this might be the chance for Baptista or Aliadiere...

Sweet Jesus!

Thats awful...

But I guess last year he was out for a long spell, plus the new injury is a nerve, which is painful to play or do anything with a nerve injury.

[vanNistelrooy]

I'd like to know the teams you've faced at Anfield in the F.A. Cup.
We were one of them last year.

[Jesus]

That was low Rafa, very low (like your league position) ;)

Good one Van Nistelroy n btw Arsenal will crush Chelsea easily cuz they are on form.(Arsenal beat Spurs who beat Chelsea so they can beat Chelsea easily, i mean i hope so cuz then it would b better 4 us United Fans!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[CaptainCabinet]

Good one Van Nistelroy n btw Arsenal will crush Chelsea easily cuz they are on form.(Arsenal beat Spurs who beat Chelsea so they can beat Chelsea easily, i mean i hope so cuz then it would b better 4 us United Fans!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You're an idiot.

[Joel]

Good one Van Nistelroy n btw Arsenal will crush Chelsea easily cuz they are on form.(Arsenal beat Spurs who beat Chelsea so they can beat Chelsea easily, i mean i hope so cuz then it would b better 4 us United Fans!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh shit....now you mention that, Chelsea are totally screwed. I mean, what's the point in having the match, let's just give the 3 points to Arsenal, have a day off and then Chelsea can concentrate on Newcastle.

[CaptainCabinet]

Can you do that for us as well? 'Cos we beat Blackburn, who drew with Spurs, who beat you. So Pompey > Chelsea...yes? :mellow:

[mufcsean]

:laugh: what a thick twat

[Joel]

Can you do that for us as well? 'Cos we beat Blackburn, who drew with Spurs, who beat you. So Pompey > Chelsea...yes? :mellow:

I won't make any promises, but I'll see what I can do ;)

[Viperized]

Oh shit....now you mention that, Chelsea are totally screwed. I mean, what's the point in having the match, let's just give the 3 points to Arsenal, have a day off and then Chelsea can concentrate on Newcastle.
That is actually a superb suggestion.

3 easy points without Henry, eh?

[CaptainCabinet]

That is actually a superb suggestion.

3 easy points without Henry, eh?

Probably, as Chelsea won't try to play stupid offsides and you might not have Poll on your side ;).

[AJ100]

My m8 Poll might let us take a few quick free-quicks and let us watch Moaninho's face when Terry gets sent off again.

[pistolpete]

So Wenger says that we wont be buying anyone in January,
Does this mean that he's keeping his cards close to his chest or being honest? Ive definately heard him say that before and in the last few years he's bought Reyes, Diaby, Adebayor and Walcott in the January transfer window.
Does anyone think he will buy?
Who would you like to see arrive? Reallisticly.

[Pierre]

I wont be super dissapointed if he didnt sign anyone in January. We need players exactly like Diaby and Baptista, Lauren will add experience and grit to the squad....

If really desperate, could call one of the kids back like Bendtner or Lupoli..

[Viperized]

We need a goalkeeper and a winger though.

[Dragonfly]

A winger who can cross the ball.....in the air.

[Viperized]

My m8 Poll might let us take a few quick free-quicks and let us watch Moaninho's face when Terry gets sent off again.
Is Poll refereeing the game again?

A winger who can cross the ball.....in the air.
Or a winger who can constantly beat his marker and can get behind the defence.

A winger like Ribery would be fantastic.

[pistolpete]

Cant see Wenger buying a winger, the two that have occupied the wide positions most this season Hleb, and Rosicky are both new in the side and he wouldnt replace either yet, also Fredy plays wide and Walcott has done well on the wings.
Desperately need a keeper though, if indeed Lehmann is off at the end of the season?

[ThierryHenry14]

we should try and convince buffon to come to england

[vanNistelrooy]

we should try and convince buffon to come to england
Yes because you need a goalie :rolleyes:

You guys just can't defend to save your lives at the moment. Lehmann hasn't really been at fault, and infact has saved your asses a couple of times. You also need yourselves a "vanNistelrooy" as it were. Very well dancing past players but if you can't stick the ball in the back of the net you're not going to get far.

[martin_cranie]

In terms of a winger, I'd like N'Zogbia. Ribery is too much to hope for, particularly in the mid-season window. Although I don't think we need to buy a new 'keeper just yet, it would be good to get one before the start of next season. A summer raid for a certain CSKA Moscow 'keeper would make me a very happy man.

I'm not convinced that Wenger will do anything major in January. He may just recruit a few youngsters to the reserves as usual. One thing I am sure about though is that I don't want any more strikers. We have three of the most talented young strikers in Europe in Bendtner, Lupoli and Stokes, all of whom are finding it difficult if not impossible to find space at Arsenal. Adding more firepower in January would almost certainly result in Bendtner leaving, and that's not good.

[Stella Artois]

We don't need to do anything in January. End of story.

The overreation and persistent whinging and moaning from Arsenal fans is getting slightly tiring I must say - to the extent where I can see why others get annoyed with us.

We have players coming back to full fitness in January and as I've said on many occasions we've only played badly twice in the league and if we stopped squandering easy chances, we'd be up there without a shadow of a doubt.

[Jonny2J]

In terms of a winger, I'd like N'Zogbia. Ribery is too much to hope for, particularly in the mid-season window. Although I don't think we need to buy a new 'keeper just yet, it would be good to get one before the start of next season. A summer raid for a certain CSKA Moscow 'keeper would make me a very happy man.

I'm not convinced that Wenger will do anything major in January. He may just recruit a few youngsters to the reserves as usual. One thing I am sure about though is that I don't want any more strikers. We have three of the most talented young strikers in Europe in Bendtner, Lupoli and Stokes, all of whom are finding it difficult if not impossible to find space at Arsenal. Adding more firepower in January would almost certainly result in Bendtner leaving, and that's not good.Suffering second season syndrome at the moment like.

[martin_cranie]

Suffering second season syndrome at the moment like.

Indeed. However, he's still one hell of a player who will return to form soon enough I'm sure.

[Jonny2J]

Indeed. However, he's still one hell of a player who will return to form soon enough I'm sure.I do hope so, it hasn't helped the lad at all when last season he was outstanding and Duff has come in and been absolutely awful.

[Stella Artois]

Perhaps people have worked out how to play him...

[Jonny2J]

Perhaps people have worked out how to play him...It's a confidence thing at the moment that I'm sure of.

[Stella Artois]

I guess we'll see, we all know why they say about the second season.

[AJ100]

Yes because you need a goalie :rolleyes:

You guys just can't defend to save your lives at the moment. Lehmann hasn't really been at fault, and infact has saved your asses a couple of times. You also need yourselves a "vanNistelrooy" as it were. Very well dancing past players but if you can't stick the ball in the back of the net you're not going to get far.

U have hit the nail on that one my son! It is true what he says we need a natural good old fashioned striker who can get the goals. It dont matter how it goes in as long as it goes in at all. A new goalkeeper such as Buffon or the young Yohann Pele would do nicely as well.

[Rossy Boy]

Wenger announces squad for Porto clash

The travelling squad is as follows:

Jens Lehmann
Cesc Fabregas
Kolo Toure
Philippe Senderos
Fredrik Ljungberg
Julio Baptista
Robin van Persie
Alexander Hleb
Mathieu Flamini
Gilberto
Johan Djourou
Gael Clichy
Manuel Almunia
Emmanuel Adebayor
Emmanuel Eboue
Jeremie Aliadiere
Justin Hoyte
Theo Walcott

[Viperized]

We don't need to do anything in January. End of story.

The overreation and persistent whinging and moaning from Arsenal fans is getting slightly tiring I must say - to the extent where I can see why others get annoyed with us.

We have players coming back to full fitness in January and as I've said on many occasions we've only played badly twice in the league and if we stopped squandering easy chances, we'd be up there without a shadow of a doubt.
We do need to buy in January. Lehmann is 37 years old and we should be looking for a replacement sooner than later. It would be better to get a keeper in January so we can slowly introduce him into our starting 11 and then eventually let him take over once the no. 1 shirt once Lehmann's contract expires. Would preferably prefer a younger keeper.

We lack a winger who can penetrate and get behind defenses as well as providing width on the pitch. None of our current wingers are goalscorers. Other than Henry, our backup goal source was Pires. I don't believe Hleb, Rosicky or Ljungberg (especially as Bergkamp isn't here) will be able to provide the same number of goals he gives.

Ljungberg is fairly prone to injuries and it also appears to apply to Rosicky as well - he is injured for three weeks, and its the third time he had an injury! I sure hope Rosicky does not get any further injuries.

Losing Rosicky for the match against Porto and Chelsea will be a big blow in my opinion. He has appeared to be one of our most consistent performers this season.

Perhaps people have worked out how to play him...
I wouldn't say so.

He is probably running through a patchy period, and I'm sure all good players have.

N'Zogbia was excellent for Newcastle last season, grabbing about 6-7 goals and a good number of assists.

[The Stig]

U have hit the nail on that one my son! It is true what he says we need a natural good old fashioned striker who can get the goals. It dont matter how it goes in as long as it goes in at all. A new goalkeeper such as Buffon or the young Yohann Pele would do nicely as well.
You have the best striker in the world along with a talented young Robin Van Persie and Adebayor who has took alot of stick but is not much a donkey he was made out to be and you Arsenal fans moan?

EDIT: I would love a strikeforce of Henry, RvP, Adebayor and Walcott. Not to mention the amount of youngsters you have in the likes of Bendtner (sp?) and Lupoli.

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

You're an idiot.

The simplicity and yet verity of that summing up had me in stitches.

[Pierre]

Its funny, Arsenal are seen as a foreign team, yet are the only club in the top 5 of the Premiership with English owners!! (Liverpool are gonna be sold to the sheikhs)

Its quite a telling point....

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

We were one of them last year.

CROOOOOOOOOOOOUCH!!!!!

Funny that given all the things that were said about Scousers throwing things at Smith and rocking Ambulances Smith didn't mention anything and actually to his credit praised how Liverpool dealt with what could have been a very serious situation.

[Canadian, Eh?]

I agree with Stella, its a knee jerk reaction to go out and buy players. And Wenger won't pick up a player I bet. Or he will sign some keeper from the jungle of the Congo for $5.

But like Stella said, we will have Lauren and Diaby back.

Plus we have Gilbert, Bendtner and Lupoli on loan...

[Nturtle]

Its funny, Arsenal are seen as a foreign team, yet are the only club in the top 5 of the Premiership with English owners!! (Liverpool are gonna be sold to the sheikhs)

Its quite a telling point....

Nice stat that...but nobody listens to it Pierre!! HA! :ohmy:

Looking forward to Porto...hopefully...4-4-2 and a win! :cool:

[Pierre]

Haha, cheers Nturtle

Just revising and it suddenly occured to me....

At least if any of the fans from these teams talk about us being a "foreign legion" we have some ammunitiont to throw back!

Im going for a win as well, Van Persie free-kick!

[Nturtle]

Haha, cheers Nturtle

Just revising and it suddenly occured to me....

At least if any of the fans from these teams talk about us being a "foreign legion" we have some ammunitiont to throw back!

Im going for a win as well, Van Persie free-kick!

HA! I like the sentiment...but as I said...it would fall on deaf ears! :erm:

VP free-kick...not unheard of certainly...I'm banking on Walcott or Baptista scoring, and possibly even Hleb...the underdogs so to speak. It's a team game, and Arsenal play it well...go you gunners! :cool:

[pistolpete]

I agree with Stella, its a knee jerk reaction to go out and buy players. And Wenger won't pick up a player I bet. Or he will sign some keeper from the jungle of the Congo for $5.

But like Stella said, we will have Lauren and Diaby back.

Plus we have Gilbert, Bendtner and Lupoli on loan...


True-those missing players will be helpful when they return.
I do think that signing a keeper soon is essential as any keeper could learn from Lehmann with the form he is in.

Ive got a feeling that the 3 on loan will be sold, how many times have players gone out on loan, then made their way into the first team? excepting Cole who's talent was clear and Hoyte.

[Viperized]

I agree with Stella, its a knee jerk reaction to go out and buy players. And Wenger won't pick up a player I bet. Or he will sign some keeper from the jungle of the Congo for $5.

But like Stella said, we will have Lauren and Diaby back.

Plus we have Gilbert, Bendtner and Lupoli on loan...
As I said, I think its better to search for a goalkeeper in January, and let him slowly take over Lehmann, who isn't getting any younger as he is 37 years old.

I wouldn't lose any sleep if we don't sign anyone, but I do think we should be trying to find a goalkeeper and a winger - Pires was our secondary goalscorer after Henry. Can you honestly say Rosicky, Hleb or Ljungberg will provide the same number of goals to our team? A goalscoring winger will help.

I doubt Bendtner or Lupoli will get any chances this season, so they may be better off with their loans extended till the end of the season.

[Stella Artois]

If we get a keeper, it should be one who can take over in an instant, not some 21 year old keeper with potential.

What wingers are there currently in world football who could do what Pires did for us?

[pistolpete]

The only winger i see scoring regularly and would fit into the style of football we play is Malouda of Lyon, doubt very much if Wenger would be willing to part with the cash they would want for him
Maybe player plus cash - Flamini?
Cant see him playing much when Diaby and Lauren are back, we seem to have a bit of strenghth in depth in the positions he fills.

[Pierre]

Mancini from Roma would be good, he has good positioning and reactions...

Baptista can do it at a push, but like Gerrard hes better in the middle....

[wrigh2uk]

If we get a keeper, it should be one who can take over in an instant, not some 21 year old keeper with potential.

What wingers are there currently in world football who could do what Pires did for us?

Wouldn't mind Ribery, kaka maybe :rolleyes: lmao I know I know im talking shit

[Viperized]

If we get a keeper, it should be one who can take over in an instant, not some 21 year old keeper with potential.

What wingers are there currently in world football who could do what Pires did for us?
There are some young yet very good keepers around such as Akinfeev.

I would prefer the keeper to be within the age range of 25-30 though.

Ribery is a very good and a realistic target.

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

Good luck for tonight, can't wait to see this new signing in action. Strange choice of squad number mind.

[AJ100]

Good luck for tonight, can't wait to see this new signing in action. Strange choice of squad number mind.

What new signing?

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

Why

Polonium
210

of course.

[ThierryHenry14]

wtf???

[Viperized]

wtf???
http://news.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30100-13555409,00.html

[ThierryHenry14]

oh.... i get it now

[Viperized]

Fucking hell.

Flamini is on the pitch.

Van Persie on the bench.

WTF. Is Wenger playing for the loss? Van Persie is out biggest goal threat ffs.

And I can't believe Flamini was selected over Baptista. Flamini is a headless chicken.

We'll lose tonight. Seems like you have to be fluent in French to get into the starting 11, in arguably one of the most important matches this season - if we lose, we won't make the CL knockout stages.

If we don't make it, I'm pointing the blame all on Wenger.

I just cannot believe Flamini is on the pitch. This was a more technical game yet he dropped Van Persie to accommodate Flamini, the headless chicken.

[Joel]

Viperised, you got to put a bit more faith in Wenger. He's one of the best managers in the World and he knows what he is doing.

However on Sunday, feel free to boo Wenger before and during the game. Maybe after the game too, depending on the result :D

[ThierryHenry14]

oh my god
starting 11
Jens Lehmann Johan Djourou
Gaël Clichy Kolo Toure
Emmanuel Eboue Fredrik Ljungberg
Francesc Fabregas Mathieu Flamini
Alexander Hleb Gilberto Silva
Emmanuel Adebayor
the bench
Justin Hoyte Robin Van Persie
Jeremie Aliadiere Julio Baptista
Theo Walcott Manuel Almunia
Philippe Senderos
My Starting 11
Jens Lehmann GK
Emmanuel Eboue RB
Gaël Clichy LB
Kolo Toure CB
Philippe Senderos CB
Fredrik Ljungberg RM
Francesc Fabregas CM
Alexander Hleb LM
Gilberto Silva CM
Emmanuel Adebayor RS
Robin Van Persie LS

[Canadian, Eh?]

He is playing for the draw plain and simple.

[ThierryHenry14]

cska are 1-0 up we need to draw or win at this moment

EDIT:it's now 1-1 and man u are losing

[Viperized]

Absolutely pathetic performance. I can't remember a single attack by us.

Wenger is a hypocrite. He complains at the fact teams go on the defensive with 11 men behind the ball yet we done the same today. Honestly, I've lost a little bit of faith and respect from Wenger for being a hypocrite. And no, I'm not slating him, but I'm merely suggesting he is a hypocrite.

Does he know how dangerous it is to play for the draw? We should try to play for the win in every single game ffs. Porto gave us a couple of scares. Luckily, we were left unpunished.

Wenger got it all wrong today, from the tactics to the players on the pitch.

We got through, but we still played exceptionally poorly. Embarrassing performance, especially as we were playing defensive.

Oh well, I sure hope the reason we played poorly today was to give it all against Chelsea. I'm not too confident though, as it looks like Flamini will start, who was simply poor tonight. He gave the ball away countless of times.

[Viperized]

Viperised, you got to put a bit more faith in Wenger. He's one of the best managers in the World and he knows what he is doing.

However on Sunday, feel free to boo Wenger before and during the game. Maybe after the game too, depending on the result :D
Well, Wenger got it all wrong today.

I would've liked to see an attacking game instead of playing the extremely risky defensive game.

I'm not expecting a win against Chelsea though.

[CaptainCabinet]

I'm not expecting a win against Chelsea though.

And if you could keep it up until after Pompey t'would be much appreciated ;).

[Mushy Peas]

So Arsenal and Porto needed a draw to see them both through and what do ya know it finishes 0-0 mmm

[Viperized]

If Wenger starts Ljungberg and Flamini in a 451 formation then we'll defintely lose. It is very easy for two defenders to shut down one striker.

We need the best team possible for Sunday and that would be:

............Lehmann
Eboue Toure Djourou Clichy
Hleb Cesc Gilberto Walcott
.......Ade...Van Persie

Yes, Walcott. His pace, penetration and width would help us significantly. Not to mention that he is a better player than Ljungberg at the moment, who doesn't look like he can beat his marker and deliver a good cross.

We'll need to play 442. Two strikers = bigger chance of scoring, as none of our midfielders are goal-scorers.

[wrigh2uk]

I personally think Baptista deserve a run of games I hate when Wenger does this. Van P and Walcott too

[Viperized]

Wenger likes his French players. i.e. Flamini.

[ThierryHenry14]

i think we need to play sendores some more aswell

[Mushy Peas]

Wenger likes his French players. i.e. Flamini.


He also likes his German,Spanish,Ivorian,Swiss,C zech,Swedish,Brazilian,Dutch,C ameroonian,Belarusian,Estonian and Togolese players,just not English ones

[Pierre]

Hey forget the shit performance, were through...

We wont play like that in the CL again, I hope..

All thoughts to Chelsea now

[Viperized]

Fuck.

Toure is suspended. I sure hope Gallas is fit for the game.

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

Wow that was impressive the way you depended on other people to sneak through, where is Stella to celebrate this monumental occasion?

[Viperized]

Depended on other people?

Are you referring to Hamburg? Irrespective of their result we would've gone through just by simply getting a 0-0 score.

[Canadian, Eh?]

I do believe that CSKA and Porto are both very good teams. We finished at the top of the group.

We drew 0-0 who cares, Wenger wanted a draw he got a draw we finished top. Why waste some players before Chelsea to beat Porto?

No point really.

Toure is a big loss for sunday, but I am sure Djourou can fit in with Gallas.

If I see Senderos vs. Drogba I will shit myself

[Viperized]

Who cares? The performance was downright abysmal. I care about that!

But since our next game is against Chelsea, losing Toure is a really big blow.

Gallas just has to be fit for this game. Gallas-Djourou in defence looks pretty good to me.

[Scarface]

Tonight's performance was painful to watch, but we got the result we needed to finish top of the group, so can't complain too much.

2nd Round - Possible Opponents
Inter Milan
Barcelona
Real Madrid
PSV
AS Roma
Celtic
Lille

Some potentially tricky opponents, there.

[Viperized]

Wouldn't mind PSV or Celtic.

Would love to do Barca though.

[Canadian, Eh?]

Who cares? The performance was downright abysmal. I care about that!

Well yes, but we played awful against Fulham last week...probably worse. The difference was that we didn't put a team that was capable of a goal I think tonight.

But we finished with 11 pts in the group, some people here are saying that we should redo everything. ManU finished on 12 and they are happy.

Lets be happy we moved on.

Also I would like to see us get Inter for Vieria to make another return.

[Stella Artois]

Wow that was impressive the way you depended on other people to sneak through, where is Stella to celebrate this monumental occasion?

Talk about embarrassing yourself.

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[Viperized]

http://www.be-warned.co.uk/

[Stella Artois]

I've read a lot about the negative performance and whatnot, but I think it's important we all realise we've qualified and it's onwards and upwards.

What happened to Toure? I was working and haven't seen the game yet.

[Viperized]

From what I gathered, Toure is suspended and is unable to face Chelsea.

I know we've qualified, but the performance today was torture-like.

If we play like this against Chelsea we will get annihilated, which is why I'm concerned despite going through. Hopefully Sunday will be a different story though.

[Usul]

Wouldn't mind PSV or Celtic.

Would love to do Barca though.
Would love to do you too.

[Canadian, Eh?]

From what I gathered, Toure is suspended and is unable to face Chelsea.

Why is he suspended...

He didn't get booked against Tottenham...

[Jake Small]

Would love to do you too.

You play for Barca? :D

[Viperized]

Arsenal are definitely without Toure and Gallas.

And Djourou is a doubt for the game. I can't see us winning now.

Senderos + Song in defence?! :|

[ThierryHenry14]

anyone but song

EDIT:djourou could be fit
http://www.arsenal.com/article.asp?thisNav=News&article=433888&lid=NewsHeadline&Title=Djourou+showing+signs+of +recovery+ahead+of+Chelsea
what about hoyte he has seemed to of dissapeared

[Viperized]

Arsenal are definitely without Toure and Gallas.

And Djourou is a doubt for the game. I can't see us winning now.

Senderos + Song in defence?! :|

[mutu]

Woah. Déjà-vu :shocking:

[Usul]

You play for Barca? :D
In spirit. I do my part, by sending out good vibes.

It works sometimes.

For instance, i was the one that willed Ronaldinho to slip it under Bremen's defenders. Seriously.

[Canadian, Eh?]

I am sure Djourou or Gallas will be fit for Sunday.

[Rossy Boy]

Gallas wont be fit he has 20% chance of playing i hope that song dont play god help us if he does

[Nturtle]

Gallas wont be fit he has 20% chance of playing i hope that song dont play god help us if he does

Well...I wouldn't want to be in Song's shoes!!

Djourou could be good against Drogba/Sheva...he played against the latter with Senderos in thw World Cup.

LOL Muad'dib!! Well...I'm sure we'll get some good opponents...no easy games not in the knowckout!

No 4-5-1 at the Bridge pls pls pls Wenger!!! :realmad:

[Billy Minof]

Well...I wouldn't want to be in Song's shoes!!

Djourou could be good against Drogba/Sheva...he played against the latter with Senderos in thw World Cup.

LOL Muad'dib!! Well...I'm sure we'll get some good opponents...no easy games not in the knowckout!

No 4-5-1 at the Bridge pls pls pls Wenger!!! :realmad:

Would you like to meet Madrid again this year, 2 good matches last season plus I would like some revenge. :)

[Jake Small]

In spirit. I do my part, by sending out good vibes.

It works sometimes.

For instance, i was the one that willed Ronaldinho to slip it under Bremen's defenders. Seriously.

:D

I knew something was fishy about that..

[Nturtle]

Would you like to meet Madrid again this year, 2 good matches last season plus I would like some revenge. :)

HAHA! Well...you might need to wait...and bite your fingers again gaffer...we'll probably nail a few more this time...Hee hee...:w00t

[Billy Minof]

HAHA! Well...you might need to wait...and bite your fingers again gaffer...we'll probably nail a few more this time...Hee hee...:w00t

Revenge would be sweet though...;)
I think though we will get Man Utd and VN will score the winner. :ninja:

[ATH10]

According to the BBC Wenger has pleaded to the fans to respect Ashley Cole on Sunday, and Gallas is definetely out of the game.

[Canadian, Eh?]

Somehow I don't think they are going to respect him....

[ATH10]

Somehow I don't think they are going to respect him....

Yeah thats the funny thing about his comments. Wenger is being a little naive in this case.

[ThierryHenry14]

i saw on ssn last night that lehmann has told the fans to give cashely some stick it was the daily express i think

[Canadian, Eh?]

Jens will probably go up and give Cole alot of stick on his own without the fans.

[ThierryHenry14]

gilberto silva told ssn that he is liking being captain whilst henry is out
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=434040&CPID=8&clid=3&lid=2&title=Gilberto+relishing+capta incy

[vanNistelrooy]

Lehmann is a prick. Quality keeper but some of the stupid shit he does in games isn't needed.

A draw or an Arsenal win this weekend would be lovely. Come on the Arse!

[JoeyM]

Lehmann is a prick. Quality keeper but some of the stupid shit he does in games isn't needed.

Is it needed? No. Is it hilariously entertaining? Yes.

As long as he doesn't get himself sent off I hope he doesn't change a thing.

[Viperized]

He has to be the funniest keeper I've ever seen, but he does seem to go overboard at times, doing unnecessary stuff when already on thin-ice.

[Pierre]

If we do over Chelsea, I think we can say are kids have arrived...

It doesnt matter about if we come third because, next season we should have a monster in midfield and Diaby would of had 6 months in the prem....

Beating teams like Bolton and Everton will definetly come, their just too one-dimensional to not be able to correct those mistakes..

[ibz]

anyone - besides me - think Baptista might get to start the game to support Adybayour?

It might be a good idea to congest the middle of the pitch and make it hard for chelsea and hit them with our full backs on the break, the're very bad on the wings but it depends on who morinho is going to play really.. he might opt for SWP or Robbin to give them more width, but if he does he'll have to give up one of his important midfielders (Ballack, Essien, Makalele) or sheva ..

[Viperized]

He is more likely to bring on the likes of Robben or Kalou in the second half.

I'm pretty sure Mourinho will start with a midfield of Makelele, Essien, Ballack, Lampard.

[Dragonfly]

I'm pretty sure Mourinho will start with a midfield of Makelele, Essien, Ballack, Lampard.

To counter our central play? Yeah i would think so. And we'll probably be 4-5-1.

It's going to be a tempremental affair, but I can see us winning it, with a controversial goal, of course.

We better beware of any radioactive soup. :tongue:

[Scarface]

anyone - besides me - think Baptista might get to start the game to support Adybayour?


I doubt it, although i'd certainly like to see Julio Baptista start. I think he's one big game away from really finding his form at Arsenal, and tomorrow could be his opportunity. I'll be disappointed if Mathieu Flamini is picked ahead of him, although not entirely surprised.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

If both Flamini and Ljungberg are playing, we'll certainly be in deep shit. I don't see any potential in Flamini, he is a waste of space. It is a waste to buy a quality player like Baptista and bench him.

I am hoping the strike partnership of Van Persie and Baptista.

[Nturtle]

I seriously hope we don't play 4-5-1...that's ridiculous at home!:realmad:

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

We can't play the 4-5-1 in the Premier League, it is that simple. That formation is no doubt helping us to win possessions but in result of that, we lack the speed and to break down defense.

[JoeyM]

I can understand playing 4-5-1 in matches against strong opposition, it works fine against teams who try and attack us, but it simply doesn't work against teams who only defend, we create to few clear chances, and the good chances we do create fall to nonprolific midfielders.

I could understand playing 4-5-1 tomorrow, as Chelsea will probably pack the midfield

[vanNistelrooy]

COME ON ARSENAL.

Beware though, if you have the indecency of being a goal up at half time the great tactician that is Moaninho WILL bring on all three subs at once. If this fails to work, the best manager in the world will lump John Terry up front.

Just thought you should be warned.

[CaptainCabinet]

You realise if you draw today, we're in the run for the title :mellow:

[Jonny2J]

COME ON ARSENAL.

Beware though, if you have the indecency of being a goal up at half time the great tactician that is Moaninho WILL bring on all three subs at once. If this fails to work, the best manager in the world will lump John Terry up front.

Just thought you should be warned.He's still the best manager in The Premiership.

[Viperized]

I was hoping we would play either:

..............Lehmann
Eboue Djourou Senderos Clichy
...............Gilberto
......Cesc............Hleb
Van Persie.................Walcott
...............Adebayor

Van Persie on the right side, his best position on the wings.
Walcott could tear up Geremi with his pace, and Hleb with Rosicky's role, although we do lack his long range shots.

Alternatively:

..............Lehmann
Eboue Djourou Senderos Clichy
...............Gilberto
......Cesc............Baptista
Hleb......................Van Persie
...............Adebayor

If Ljungberg or Flamini start, we will lose this game. They just cannot start.

Adebayor and Van Persie have to start. Why? Adebayor brings great work rate and can hold up the ball for the likes of Baptista to hammer one in, and Van Persie can create a chance out of nothing.

Van Persie is currently our best finisher.

I think 451 would be a good way to go against Chelsea, so our defence is more protected with a young partnership of Djourou and Senderos. Also, Chelsea won't sit back for 90 minutes, so they're bound to attack us, which should help.

It's a real, real shame Toure and Rosicky are missing from this game. Or even Gallas..

Rosicky was one of the reasons we beat Manchester United. I can't remember who we played far left in that game though. Was it Ljungberg?

[ThierryHenry14]

i like your first choice seems better how long is rosicky out for is he still injured

[Jonny2J]

I hope to god Baptista is playing today, especially due to the amount of muscle Chelsea have in their team, this is the sort of game where Baptista should relish the opportunity if he's playing.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Rosicky was one of the reasons we beat Manchester United. I can't remember who we played far left in that game though. Was it Ljungberg?

Hleb was on the left wing against United.

Chances are big that Ljungberg will start instead of Baptista because Wenger will probably choose Ljungberg as he is more experienced . I will be happy if we can earn a draw with the amount of injuries we have in our squad.

[vanNistelrooy]

He's still the best manager in The Premiership.
Very debatable. I'd like to see how he'd do without an unlimited transfer budget.

[Jonny2J]

Very debatable. I'd like to see how he'd do without an unlimited transfer budget.Possibly win The Champions League and Uefa Cup again like he did with Porto.

[Viperized]

Porto were full of quality players, so you cannot say he took a shite team to Champions League glory.

[Jonny2J]

Porto were full of quality players, so you cannot say he took a shite team to Champions League glory.I never once said they were a shit team did I?

[Viperized]

Flamini is starting in midfield. Oh God, help us.

Flamini ffs. The headless chicken. He has no positional sense and doesn't offer anything, other than a yellow card.

We'll defintely lose.

Wenger's decisions this season have been outragous, and have cost us quite a few times. He certainly loves his French players.

What does it take for Baptista to get a game? He is just what we needed. A powerful goalscoring midfielder! Flamini offers absolutely nothing.

I would've even preferred Ljungberg over Flamini!

Wenger is really losing it. I'm questioning his tactics.

Midfield is:
Hleb Cesc Gilberto Flamini Van Persie

[Viperized]

I never once said they were a shit team did I?
I know, I just said this in advance :P

[JoeyM]

Damn, calm down guys, I'd like to have seen the Beast start too, but so far this season his first touch has looked loose and he's generally looked sluggish, so I can see why he's not starting.

I imagine Wengers going to try and keep it tight early on, and if things aren't going well bring on Baps in the second half.

[Viperized]

He should've tried to bring on Ljungberg instead of Flamini at the very least.

Ljungberg is a much better player and does offer directness at least, where as Flamini offers nothing.

[Viperized]

Flamini..

Is he even on the pitch? Bring on Baptista, Walcott or EVEN Ljungberg for Flamini.

Seems like we're doing ok. Comical defending at times though. Our midfield is doing well, bar Flamini.

I would even go as far as we are dominating the midfield.

Ballack, Essien and Lampard have looked fairly quiet. Gilberto and Fabregas are playing excellent.

I think we could change to a more direct approach i.e. 442, and bring on someone like Walcott for Flamini.

Wenger should NOT sub off RvP or Hleb. Flamini should be taken off, or possibly Ade, but he is lacking service so you can't blame him.

[vanNistelrooy]

Possibly win The Champions League and Uefa Cup again like he did with Porto.
Remember the other team that got to the Champions League final that year but their manager never gets a mention (I don't even know his name, that's how stupid it is).

We'll never be able to compare Moaninho to other managers to really decide "who's the best", as he's had a clear advantage since day one.

COME ON ARSENAL.

[The Stig]

That Lehmann and Drogba incident was quality. :laugh:

[ThierryHenry14]

can't wait to see that bit on motd2

[ThierryHenry14]

arsenal just scored bloomin flamini

[nikos24]

Flamini is starting in midfield. Oh God, help us.

Flamini ffs. The headless chicken. He has no positional sense and doesn't offer anything, other than a yellow card.

We'll defintely lose.

Flamini offers absolutely nothing.

I would've even preferred Ljungberg over Flamini!


Guess Wenger and Flamini in particular will prove you wrong. ;)

[ThierryHenry14]

well done flamini keep it up arsenal we can do this

[The Stig]

My god. Essien's goal was brilliant.

[ThierryHenry14]

i hope arsenal can get another 1 back

[vanNistelrooy]

Flamini shit? Idiots. He also saved you in injury time.