Arsenal

[alpine goal]

I think Eboue has a slight knock so will probably only start on the bench and Diaby will probably be saved for Spurs LC and he wants to send Song out on loan so I dont think he will play him! Doesnt Song look like he is permantly dreaming?

yeh he does, still not sure on him.
didnt know Eboue had knock = Beast will be saved for weds
how about Diaby in the middle Flamini on the right ?

[Rossy Boy]

How about Flamini FUCK OFF! bring in Denilson

[alpine goal]

How about Flamini FUCK OFF! bring in Denilson

For Bolton !

some times you have to play not the most talented player but the best player for the situation this why there are squads

can you tell me why you dont like Flamini ? sorry if you have had to explain before

[Rossy Boy]

because he doesnt have a clue what he is doing bit like song

[Canadian, Eh?]

You sound exactly like the people who were bashing Adebayor last season and are now polishing his knob.

Flamini is perfectly capable to play against Bolton

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Notice they have only really started turning us over since Vieira left and now Cesc is more experienced super cool and ready to go ontop of that Henry is ready Adebayor will be physical and skillful all at the same time I cant see how they will win or even draw. The downside is no Gilberto and no Hleb but the replacements have shown that they can cut it now Hell even Hoyte has started to play well since his goal against Charlton and the fact that AW has shown his faith in him it has boosted his confidence. Flamini although not brilliant has also flourished and is playing at his maximum I guess because of AW who shows faith which breeds good players more often that not!

As a matter of fact, they were doing that BEFORE Vieira left. The two players who worries me the most are Flamini and Hoyte as they're not consistent enough to cement their starting positions. They're most prone to mistakes in our side and any small one can prove decisive.

On the other hand, it is too early comparing Denilson to Cesc because we do not watch Denilson enough to make such a comparison. He might be looking like Cesc at the moment but nothing like a carbon copy. He might be looking like Cesc at the moment but he might be playing like Vieira in the future. This is same as the comparison of Van Persie to Bergkamp and Adebayor to Kanu, different players in my view.

[ThierryHenry14]

i think todays game will be a close one seeing as we don't seem to beat bolton that much but then again we are at home and we have not lost there i think wenger will have to put out a strong team

[vanNistelrooy]

You're playing tomorrow, dumb dumb.

[alpine goal]

Denlison plays the game the same way as Cesc.

The way they find space

Know what to do with the ball before they get it

Willing to have the ball in tight areas other players would not want it

Cant say Denlison will turn into the new vieira as his game is not based power.
He is the finder of holes and space yes he wants to tackle but will say now he will never become the new Vieria. Cant see how you can liken Denlison to Vieria even in the future. Thats like saying Flamini could turn into the new Paul Davis given time just not going to happen. The one thing I can say Denlison has over Cesc is he will score more goals given games.

[alpine goal]

You sound exactly like the people who were bashing Adebayor last season and are now polishing his knob.

Flamini is perfectly capable to play against Bolton

Yeh the same people who last season booed Gilberto, Adebayor.

When there names were read out vs Spurs last season at home people around me were booing our own players. If it wasnt for Adebayor we would have lost our last ever game aginst the scum at The Arsenal Stadium. It was his willingness to work for the ball that led to Henrys goal.

Wasnt Flamini that great left back last season !

He never got turned over once playing there, even in Madrid he was the 6th player to play in left back and we never missed Cashley when Flamini played there. Any one who has played football, playing full back on your wrong foot is hard very hard. Yet he looked like he had been playing there for years last season, even in Europe.

[vanNistelrooy]

Please could someone tell me exactly how long Arsenal expect van Persie to be out for?

[alpine goal]

Please could someone tell me exactly how long Arsenal expect van Persie to be out for?

too long !

6 weeks seems to be the shortest period thats been said, on the other hand all season seems to be the longest. I would say as a guess 10-12 weeks due to the type of break. I know I havent answered your ?

[calculus]

Please could someone tell me exactly how long Arsenal expect van Persie to be out for?

They think his season is over!

[ThierryHenry14]

yeah in the sunday express it says he's out for the rest of the season

[vanNistelrooy]

Cheers ;)

Bolton, again! :no:

[nikos24]

Arsenal Bolton, again result in favour of Bolton.

[Rossy Boy]

Gilberto is back for the replay which is good news even though we still commanded the midfield well with out him but at the start we were all over the place

[Stella Artois]

Why the fuck did we only start playing when we went 1 down?

[Rossy Boy]

thats exactly what they done and white hart lane

[alpine goal]

There are 5000 tickets available for the 2nd leg on weds night. Cant see them going on general sale as its the scum. Never know check the web site.

But did get my ticket for the shit hole the day before on general sale. Only thing was had to sit in the home end with shirt covered up as would of had a kicking (just pleased it was cold). Had to sit there when they sung stand up if you hate Arsenal and stayed sitting for their goals. Also stayed sitting for ours as still did not want a kicking. That said the trouble out side was as always. Bricks bottles dustbins and any thing else that could be thrown, was at the police. Arsenal fans werent out yet but the scum were trying to break in. Police baton charged them a few times sent in horses to break them up. Got passed it with out getting a bottle or batton in the head and 2 away goals I would call that a good night out. Just hope on weds we get to the final. Would say there I hope thers no trouble but been to enough Arsenal v Spurs to know there always is !

[Bammers05]

I have to say the refereeing today was atrocious, let's hope its not the same ref in the replay

[calculus]

I have to say the refereeing today was atrocious, let's hope its not the same ref in the replay

Not sure about that one! And that wasnt the reason for the result I agree with Stella we only started playing once we were 1-0 down:erm: Why? If your playing or at least trying to score then if you go 1 down than at least your playing that way anyway instead of having to rouse yourself! Fabregas lifted us once again but I think he will get rested or I hope he is for the Spurs match because he deserves a breather!

[JoeyM]

Again Flamini showed he offers nothing in a 4-4-2, I've never seen a player run so much yet do so little.

[calculus]

Again Flamini showed he offers nothing in a 4-4-2, I've never seen a player run so much yet do so little.

:laugh: The funny moment was win he took the ball off of Henry like he was going to do something major and then he just ran into trouble! I remember when we used to blitz teams in the first half of games and take the foot off the pedal in the second half now we start slow and finish strong but I dont think thats the best way!

[Nturtle]

Why the fuck did we only start playing when we went 1 down?

That's pretty normal....we should really start with the mentality that we are 1-0 down then in all bloody games...sheesh...

[Canadian, Eh?]

I am happy we got a replay, but honestly....going away to Bolton again...arg...Onto the Spuds!

[calculus]

I am happy we got a replay, but honestly....going away to Bolton again...arg...Onto the Spuds!

The replay is supposed to be at the same time we play the Man City match!

[Nturtle]

The replay is supposed to be at the same time we play the Man City match!

I'm sure it'll be rearranged mate....

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Fustrating game. I am starting to believe that Bolton is an enigma which Wenger will never solve, they seem invincible against us at times.

Can someone refresh my memory on when was the last time when we actually managed to win against them?

[calculus]

Fustrating game. I am starting to believe that Bolton is an enigma which Wenger will never solve, they seem invincible against us at times.

Can someone refresh my memory on when was the last time when we actually managed to win against them?

FA Cup 2 years ago!

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

FA Cup 2 years ago!

Ahh I remembered that was it also the game where Bergkamp got sent off?

[calculus]

Ahh I remembered that was it also the game where Bergkamp got sent off?

Did he? I know Diouf got sent off and Ljungberg scored the goal but also missed an open goal!

[Dundon's]

It's something like one win in seven, fuck em though, we'll see em off.

All they can do is launch balls from throws and set pieces into the box and hope to get a dirty flick on off it. They're up there with Sheff Utd, 1st division football in a premier league.

[calculus]

It's something like one win in seven, fuck em though, we'll see em off.

All they can do is launch balls from throws and set pieces into the box and hope to get a dirty flick on off it. They're up there with Sheff Utd, 1st division football in a premier league.

Funny you should say that because I watched Ars-Bol, then I watched a bit of the Betis-Valencia Match and then I caught the end of the Inter-Samp match with a bit of the Bremen-Hannover match during stopages in the Ars-Bol game and those games seemed to have a lot more quality in them. Having said that Boltons goal and Nolans 1-1 were good moves whereas we dealt with the Long balls a bit shakely but still dealt with it!

[Stella Artois]

There goal was damn lucky. Davies "pass" was an intended shot. Unluckily for us it was so shit it just landed at Nolan's feet.

[Dundon's]

Ok here's one for you, you got the option to burn Bolton or Sheff Utd back to the 1st divison, who would you get rid of?

[calculus]

Ok here's one for you, you got the option to burn Bolton or Sheff Utd back to the 1st divison, who would you get rid of?

SU

[JoeyM]

Bolton.

Sheff Utd are still pretty shit, they only beat us because of how shit we were. Bolton have been doing this to us for a few years now

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Bolton.

I hate their disgusting yet effective tactic. It seems to work perfectly against us. As a matter of fact, I used to have no feelings toward Sheffield but I wouldn't mind lynching Warnock myself.

[Dundon's]

I agree Joe, ramming their asses out of the cup should be the first thing we do though, that'll teach em.

They got like all the biggest flops ever playing as a mob on the pitch where the objective is to just lob it into the mix no matter what the situation and hope for the flick on.

P.S. Anyone remember when they knocked us out a good few years ago? They had Mcateer and stubbs at the time, bruce Rioch was in charge too me thinks.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Even though how much I hate those mobsters, I can not disagree that they're doing a good job surviving in the Premier League.

The game which always bothered me was at the end of the 2002/2003 season when they beat us 3-1 and were saved by relegation. Couldn't believe that it was down to ourselves that they actually managed to survive such a long period.

[Stella Artois]

I agree Joe, ramming their asses out of the cup should be the first thing we do though, that'll teach em.

They got like all the biggest flops ever playing as a mob on the pitch where the objective is to just lob it into the mix no matter what the situation and hope for the flick on.

P.S. Anyone remember when they knocked us out a good few years ago? They had Mcateer and stubbs at the time, bruce Rioch was in charge too me thinks.

In 1994 when they were a second division side?

Mr Graham was the manager.

[Rambo]

There goal was damn lucky. Davies "pass" was an intended shot. Unluckily for us it was so shit it just landed at Nolan's feet.

The build up to that goal was arsenal like don't you think?

[calculus]

The build up to that goal was arsenal like don't you think?

:laugh:

[alpine goal]

Ok here's one for you, you got the option to burn Bolton or Sheff Utd back to the 1st divison, who would you get rid of?

FUCKING BOLTON for sure ! Sheffield Utd fans are ok.

[Jonny2J]

How predictable this reaction would be from the majority of yourselves.

[alpine goal]

How predictable this reaction would be from the majority of yourselves.

what did you think we would say ! Get Bolton into the champions league.

[Jonny2J]

what did you think we would say ! Get Bolton into the champions league.No but every time you play Bolton we get a big moan about their so called tactics and how they are the evil in football.

[calculus]

No but every time you play Bolton we get a big moan about their so called tactics and how they are the evil in football.


They are! :huh:

[alpine goal]

No but every time you play Bolton we get a big moan about their so called tactics and how they are the evil in football.

As a ex-footballer (semi pro) who was limited to what I could I dont mind their tactics in fact I like how they go about it. Its just that they beat us a lot and any team who who has that over you, its only natural for you to dislike them. I know its not the best to watch but they have to be beaten.
When I was at a club when we got to the 2rd round of the FA CUP we had a training session where we had to beat the shit out of each other. Then we got the balls and did the same trying to keep the ball and kick lumps out of each other. Thats what we needed to try to get to the 3rd round. We got a draw at home but lost away. So I for one have no problem with their style of play. To be the best you have to beat every one.

[vanNistelrooy]

FUCKING BOLTON for sure ! Sheffield Utd fans are ok.
Yeah because you can actually beat Sheff, oh, wait a second...

:D

[calculus]

Yeah because you can actually beat Sheff, oh, wait a second...

:D

You know what its not a case of we cant beat Bolton its just the way they play against us very physical and very high pressure and the way our team is structured that is our weaker point!

[vanNistelrooy]

I think it was the other way round after you went 1-0 down. Fabregas started pumping long balls up to Yabbadabbadoo again.

[calculus]

I think it was the other way round after you went 1-0 down. Fabregas started pumping long balls up to Yabbadabbadoo again.

No all the time I think that is what we are doing a lot more this season even though personally I dont think its working. We are mixing up our play and crossing the ball a lot more as well too!

[vanNistelrooy]

That's what you've needed for a while, a plan B. Fortunately for you it's being used when things ARE working too.

[Jonny2J]

As a ex-footballer (semi pro) who was limited to what I could I dont mind their tactics in fact I like how they go about it. Its just that they beat us a lot and any team who who has that over you, its only natural for you to dislike them. I know its not the best to watch but they have to be beaten.
When I was at a club when we got to the 2rd round of the FA CUP we had a training session where we had to beat the shit out of each other. Then we got the balls and did the same trying to keep the ball and kick lumps out of each other. Thats what we needed to try to get to the 3rd round. We got a draw at home but lost away. So I for one have no problem with their style of play. To be the best you have to beat every one.For that post I commend you sir and it's refreshing to see an Arsenal fan speak in such a way.

[alpine goal]

For that post I commend you sir and it's refreshing to see an Arsenal fan speak in such a way.

I just love football.

As I always say I am a Football fan first Arsenal fan second.

[alpine goal]

[QUOTE=RvN;912544]Yeah because you can actually beat Sheff, oh, wait a second...

3-0 at home yet we could not beat a team playing rush goalie for half an hour. Like I said like their fans. Had good banter with them on the tube for the 3-0 home win. Got to say they did take the piss on the price of a season ticket if you can live long enough to get one! Or got enough money.

[Dundon's]

Just as well for us so we won't ever be meeting either of them in the champions league then isn't it boys.

I'll admit we were shit against Sheff Utd when they beat us, but that game could of been a PPV for the UFC. They are scum....

Boton are just poxy cunts who seem to play the game of their lives every time we meet. They'll get what's coming to them soon enough though, wed night will do me.

[Stella Artois]

We'll roll the red carpet out next time Jonny, eh?

[Jonny2J]

We'll roll the red carpet out next time Jonny, eh?Or stop moaning, Chelsea and Man Utd don't moan whenever they come up against Bolton, you know the obstacle you have to overcome so why not just get on with it?

[Stella Artois]

We don't like them, cogito ergo sum we can say as we please?

There's a fine line between battling and just being plain dirty. Bolton over step it against us at the Reebok, but given we have the "weak southerners" tag they get away with it.

I realise they are limited in their abilities compared to our players and I understand they have to do what's necessary but some of it is a joke.

Plus I'm annoyed we lost at the Reebok when we shouldn't have. ;)

[Dundon's]

Trust me Stella one of these days we'll be on top form, score an early goal against them and when they have to chase the game we hit them for the big 5-0. :ninja:

[calculus]

Yeah 0-4 fa cup replay:ninja:

[Viperized]

We don't like them, cogito ergo sum we can say as we please?

There's a fine line between battling and just being plain dirty. Bolton over step it against us at the Reebok, but given we have the "weak southerners" tag they get away with it.

I realise they are limited in their abilities compared to our players and I understand they have to do what's necessary but some of it is a joke.

Plus I'm annoyed we lost at the Reebok when we shouldn't have. ;)
We hit the woodwork three times in that game. We were missing some luck.

[alpine goal]

Or stop moaning, Chelsea and Man Utd don't moan whenever they come up against Bolton, you know the obstacle you have to overcome so why not just get on with it?

Take them down to a parks pitch on a cold wet windy day and play a prison side, or non leauge team. That would get the boys ready.

[calculus]

Take them down to a parks pitch on a cold wet windy day and play a prison side, or non leauge team. That would get the boys ready.

Nah that would just be murder I am being honest when I say that! :ninja:

[alpine goal]

No Beast for 2nd leg oh well may have to play emh ....Adebayor or Henry

[calculus]

No Beast for 2nd leg oh well may have to play emh ....Adebayor or Henry

Either way we better make the Final otherwise I will not hear the end of it!

[alpine goal]

Nah that would just be murder I am being honest when I say that! :ninja:


We just got to get use to it.

[calculus]

We just got to get use to it.

Yeah I think we are and by next season we wont be bullied out of matches anymore. I didnt think we got bullied on Sunday anyway I just think we played too slowly!

[alpine goal]

Either way we better make the Final otherwise I will not hear the end of it!

Tell me about it I am going to the game. Driving from B'mth with 2 Yids in the car so if we dont get there FUCK I WILL GET IT. Did go with them to the first leg so they will now have to sit there saying nothing as I did. So if they beat us i will never hear the end of it. If we win I willl say little but often (over many years)

[calculus]

Tell me about it I am going to the game. Driving from B'mth with 2 Yids in the car so if we dont get there FUCK I WILL GET IT. Did go with them to the first leg so they will now have to sit there saying nothing as I did. So if they beat us i will never hear the end of it. If we win I willl say little but often (over many years)

Satisfying, I had Liverpool fans turn Yids on me but they couldn't say muchafter the first league so hopefully it will be the same on Thursday morning.

[Viperized]

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=445055&CPID=14&clid=3&lid=&title=Gordon+not+aware+of+inte rest&channel=&

Craig Gordon is linked with us.

He looked like a good keeper against France, and Wenger praised him, but other than that I don't know much else about him.

[Stella Artois]

Very error prone.

[Dragonfly]

He'll probably be too affraid to leave Scotland, and if he does leave Hearts, he'll probably go to Rangers.

[Top Gun]

Paul Robinson comes to mind when I think of Craig Gordon, he can be amazing for a long run of games but when an error comes he begin to get on a bad run of those.

[Rambo]

Didn't Wenger say he was a talented goalkeeper?

[Zoolander]

I thought Arsenal were going Akinfeev or what ever his name is. He's good!

[pistolpete]

Craig Gordon iss someone i would like to see at the club.

Alexandre Song has joined Charlton on loan until the end of the season - it will be good to see if he can show any of the talent that Wenger believes he has.

[calculus]

Craig Gordon iss someone i would like to see at the club.

Alexandre Song has joined Charlton on loan until the end of the season - it will be good to see if he can show any of the talent that Wenger believes he has.

Will he even get a game for Charlton?:erm:

[martin_cranie]

I thought Arsenal were going Akinfeev or what ever his name is. He's good!

If Wenger has any sense, he'll do almost anything to secure Akinfeev.

I know nothing about Gordon, but as I'm willing to overlook the likes of Frey, Hildebrand and Pele in favour of Akinfeev, I'm not going to take an interest in Gordon.

[calculus]

If Wenger has any sense, he'll do almost anything to secure Akinfeev.

I know nothing about Gordon, but as I'm willing to overlook the likes of Frey, Hildebrand and Pele in favour of Akinfeev, I'm not going to take an interest in Gordon.

Isn't Hildebrand available on a free?

[martin_cranie]

I don't know, or care for that matter. Akinfeev is the one. Although if we can't get him, Hildebrand on a free would be pretty good.

[calculus]

I don't know, or care for that matter. Akinfeev is the one. Although if we can't get him, Hildebrand on a free would be pretty good.

I trust the super network of scouts at arsenal to bring in the right choice of Goalie...lol if AW aint interested in a player then he is not worth signing or so says my Chelsea fan mate! Eg Robinson :laugh:

[Zoolander]

I know Eg Robinson! Tell him i said hi!

[Scarface]

Isn't Hildebrand available on a free?

Yeah, his contract expires in June/July of this year. Would be a very good move, going for him. I like Craig Gordon but, for me, he's not in the class of Timo Hildebrand or Igor Akinfeev, quite yet. All the speculation regarding the Scottish keeper started right after Wenger was full of praise for his performance against the French. I doubt there's anything to it.

[calculus]

Yeah, his contract expires in June/July of this year. Would be a very good move, going for him. I like Craig Gordon but, for me, he's not in the class of Timo Hildebrand or Igor Akinfeev, quite yet. All the speculation regarding the Scottish keeper started right after Wenger was full of praise for his performance against the French. I doubt there's anything to it.


Listen my friend all the managers sniff around who AW rates because him and his henchmen have an eye or 2 for a player!

[mufcsean]

I thought Hildebrand was signing for Valencia

[calculus]

I thought Hildebrand was signing for Valencia

I hijacked the move :ninja:

[Dundon's]

So the beast isn't playing tonight, what a pity. Who do we reckon will replace him?

Surely not Henry. :rolleyes:

P.S. I didn't see the full squad yet so I'm just hoping here. :ninja:

[calculus]

Arsenal squad (provisional): Almunia, Hoyte, Toure, Senderos, Traore, Denilson, Gilberto, Fabregas, Diaby, Flamini, Baptista, Aliadiere, Eboue, Walcott, Randall, Poom, Connolly, Merida. Source: BBC

This is the squad according to the BBC :rolleyes: Last time I made a duck of myself with their squad and my team selection for the match.

[pistolpete]

Didnt realise that Hildebrand was available for free, id rather have him than anyone else then - i thought he signesd a contract just last year?

If Fabregas were to play tonight id like to see him play as a 2nd striker the way that Riquelme plays, that would mean that maybe Diaby could play in his favoured central role.

[calculus]

Didnt realise that Hildebrand was available for free, id rather have him than anyone else then - i thought he signesd a contract just last year?

If Fabregas were to play tonight id like to see him play as a 2nd striker the way that Riquelme plays, that would mean that maybe Diaby could play in his favoured central role.

Yeah hes available on a free but AW reckons Almunia is ready to take the number 1 spot on from Lehmann when he decides to step down.

All the indications are that Fabregas will be rested for tonights match and I am in favour of that move!

[Stella Artois]

Rosicky, Ade and Clichy in.

Hleb, Beast, Randall out.

[Dundon's]

Lovely...

So we're bringing in some of the bigger guns eh, the starting 11 and foramtion will be intersting. In the last game he kept the senior players for the 2nd half, I'd be in favour of starting strong and trying to kill off the tie early in the game. Last thing we need is for spurs to score early and that seems to be happening to us at home all season.

[Viperized]

I was hoping Henry would be at least on the bench.

We all know he is going to go missing against Boro, but since its Sp*rs he may have actually decided to work hard.

We only have like two or three strikers for this match... Aliadiere, Adebayor and Walcott, and none of these players are hardly reknowned for their finishing! Then again, Aliadiere was the top scorer in the Carling Cup two years back.

[Viperized]

Full squad:

2. Abou Diaby
4. Francesc Fabregas
5. Kolo Toure
6. Philippe Senderos
7. Tomas Rosicky
15. Denilson
16. Mathieu Flamini
19. Gilberto
21. Mart Poom
22. Gael Clichy
24. Manuel Almunia
25. Emmanuel Adebayor
30. Jeremie Aliadiere
31. Justin Hoyte
32. Theo Walcott
45. Armand Traore

Hmm... no Eboue either. Shame.

I guess I'll have this team:

............Almunia

Hoyte Toure Senderos Clichy

Walcott Denilson/Cesc Gilberto Rosicky

........Aliadiere.....Ade

[calculus]

Full squad:

2. Abou Diaby
4. Francesc Fabregas
5. Kolo Toure
6. Philippe Senderos
7. Tomas Rosicky
15. Denilson
16. Mathieu Flamini
19. Gilberto
21. Mart Poom
22. Gael Clichy
24. Manuel Almunia
25. Emmanuel Adebayor
30. Jeremie Aliadiere
31. Justin Hoyte
32. Theo Walcott
45. Armand Traore

Hmm... no Eboue either. Shame.

I guess I'll have this team:

............Almunia

Hoyte Toure Senderos Clichy

Walcott Denilson/Cesc Gilberto Rosicky

........Aliadiere.....Ade


IMO The team tonight:-

Almunia

Hoyte Toure Senderos Clichy

Walcott Denilson Gilberto Diaby

Aliadiere Adebayor

3 first teamers strong team cant wait come you gunners!!!!

[Dundon's]

Dunno if he'll drop young Traore, part from that though this should be the team.

Almunia

Hoyte Toure Senderos Clichy/Traore

Walcott Fab/Diaby Gilberto Denilson

Aliadiere Adebayor

[calculus]

You know I think your right dundon I was was trying to be the manager myself because of the tough time he got from lennon on Tuesday last time out but I think he will stick with the youngester to give him the experience he has already said as much:cool:

[pistolpete]

I think that Traore did a decent job against Lennon (not easy) in the 1st leg and i reckon he should keep his place.
Maybe Walcott could start up front - he was awful against Bolton on the right wing,
Wouldnt mind seeing Merida get a game.

Anyone know why Djourou hasnt been playing? Il presume he is injured. How long?

Gallas has been out forever too- any news on him?

p.s Larrson has joined Birmingham for an undisclosed fee - probably very small.
Good luck to him, but i dont think that is a mistake.
Id like to see Bendtner and Muamba stay with us though.

[calculus]

I think that Traore did a decent job against Lennon (not easy) in the 1st leg and i reckon he should keep his place.
Maybe Walcott could start up front - he was awful against Bolton on the right wing,
Wouldnt mind seeing Merida get a game.

Anyone know why Djourou hasnt been playing? Il presume he is injured. How long?

Gallas has been out forever too- any news on him?

p.s Larrson has joined Birmingham for an undisclosed fee - probably very small.
Good luck to him, but i dont think that is a mistake.
Id like to see Bendtner and Muamba stay with us though.


Gallas keeps suffering from set backs, Djourou hamstring and Larsson fee is reportedly £1m!

http://www.physioroom.com/news/english_premier_league/epl_injury_table.php

We've gone into second place in the injury league table!

[pistolpete]

interesting site that - no surprise to see Newcastle at the top!

[calculus]

interesting site that - no surprise to see Newcastle at the top!

Yeah they have problems that team! :laugh:

[Scarface]

No surprises with the team selection.

Almunia
Traore
Toure
Senderos
Hoyte
Denilson
Diaby
Gilberto
Walcott
Adebayor
Aliadiere

Subs: Poom, Clichy, Rosicky, Fabregas & Flamini

Strong looking team.

Aaron Lennon only named on the bench for them. :unsure: Unless he has a minor injury, that's a very odd decision, particularly when you consider how he has caused us by far the most problems out of any of their players, in recent games.

[PEM]

you have just sold s.larrson for 1 million to birmingham :D:D:D:D:D:D

but we sold upson to west ham :(:(:(:(:(

[nikos24]

Is Clichy a starter for Arsenal? Or actually a sub?

His future for France looks shaky after Abidal and Evra have been picked ahead of him. But then again, I'm sure he is a great talent and will develop sooner or later.

[JoeyM]

he's been the first choice left back since Cole left.

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

Must say I am impressed with how well Hoyte has come along.

[Dr. Bob Kelso]

Andy Gray: "Keep Chelsea on the back foot as much as possible."

The senile blue nosed twat.

[Jonny2J]

"Ali! Bumaye!"

[calculus]

"Ali! Bumaye!"

:unsure:

Well done Arsenal making the final I can go to work and give it some :)

[Keyser Soze]

Andy Gray: "Keep Chelsea on the back foot as much as possible."

Thought I heard that. Eedjiiit.

Chelsea-Arsenal final. Should be a good'un. :) Anyone making their way up to Cardiff? Should be getting my ticket soon if all goes well.

[Viperized]

That was a very impressive performance against a Spurs side who were pretty much at full strength.

To get in the final with an average team age of 20-21 is impressive and pleasing.

Took us three semi-finals to get in the final!

[pistolpete]

Well done the lads today, very impressive performance.
Denilson was absolutely immense.
Looking forward to the final -hopefully we'll beat them but either way its an outstanding achievement.

Was looking forward to our defenders clattering ASHcOLE but looks like he did that himself.

[Viperized]

Is Clichy a starter for Arsenal? Or actually a sub?

His future for France looks shaky after Abidal and Evra have been picked ahead of him. But then again, I'm sure he is a great talent and will develop sooner or later.
First choice left-back.

He has been awesome this season. His pace is blinding, gets forward well and has kept some of the best wingers in the league in his back pocket, such as C. Ronaldo, Lennon etc.

I'm so happy that cunt (Cashley) has fucked off. Clichy looks like a more promising LB than him.

[Rambo]

I'm so happy that cunt (Cashley) has fucked off. Clichy looks like a more promising LB than him.

So will he become the best left back in the world?

[PEM]

(Cashley) .


copy!

[Viperized]

So will he become the best left back in the world?
Clichy is currently 21, and has been performing very well. He is improving game by game, so why not? I do believe he could be one of the best left-backs in the world.

Clichy at 21 > Cole at 21 without a doubt.

[Scarface]

So will he become the best left back in the world?

It's possible, but it's too early to say right now. It's important not to go too over-the-top in praising him. He's progressed very well this season, and some of his dribbling and team-work has been outstanding but, if truth be told, as much as we hate him, is he as good a defender as Ashley Cole was? No. Is he as promising as Philip Lahm, Giorgio Chiellini or Marcell Jansen? If i'm honest, i'd say not. But under Wenger's guidance, and with the more experience he gets, he can be - at least in regards to the latter two. He is very good, and can make the left back slot his own for the next 5 years, but he has a long way to go, before i'd start comparing him to Lahm, Zambrotta, Jankulovski etc.

Clichy at 21 > Cole at 21 without a doubt.

I'd have to disagree. Ashley Cole in our 2001/02 double winning season was outstanding.

Excellent performance tonight. Abou Diaby bossed the midfield, and really impressed me. Armand Traore, again, looked supremely confident on the ball and skillful, but very shaky defensively. He shouldn't be made to look like a mug by the likes of Hossam Ghaly on at least 3 occasions, but I guess it has to be said he's only 17, so he plenty of time to improve his defending. Clichy really improved the side, once he came on. Another excellent attacking performance. Less said about Theo's performance, the better. The one positive is he made some intelligent runs, but his delivery was shocking. He needs to get his head up more, he too often plays a pass or corss blind. Denilson's style again reminded me of Fabregas. Really like this kid, he's got great potential. Will now be a very interesting final, and great experience for some of the youth.

And yeah, Justin Hoyte has come on leaps and bounds. No sooner had I slagged him off, saying he's not fit to play for Arsenal, he's making me eat my words, by putting in much more assured performances, and even providing a good outlet going forward. Good to see.

[Viperized]

I think you are underrating Clichy here to be honest. He is a fantastic talent imo. Everyone expected Lennon to tear him to shreds. Didn't happen. Everyone expected C. Ronaldo to terrorise Clichy. It didn't happen. Again today, he was fantastic. His attacking contribution was immense today.

Back in 2001/2002, I actually remember Cole was criticized for his defending.

He was brilliant after 2003 though.

Just remember, last year, Clichy has been very unlucky with numerous injuries. Look at him now. He has blinding pace, is an excellent dribbler, is a great defender and gets forward well. He has been one of our best players in the last couple of games.

[mufcsean]

Good game today, Denilson had a great strike unlucky not ot score

[Scarface]

I do rate him highly. I agree he's a fantastic talent, and i'm delighted that we were fortunate enough to have a replacement for Ashley Cole already knocking on the door, as he's saved us a fortune. I believe he's a very good left back, and can become world class within the next 12-18 months, but there's still aspects of his game that I feel can be significantly improved upon, such as his aerial ability, delivery, positioning, shooting etc, which other young left backs, such as Philipp Lahm and Marcell Jansen, already have in their arsenal.

I'm not saying he doesn't have some of those things already, but he can certainly improve upon them. I think of him as an unpolished gem, rather than a world beater, right now. He should soon be in the France national squad, ahead of Eric Abidal - who he's already better than, in my opinion. Like I say, i'm a Clichy fan, but I'm not getting too carried away in the hype about him becoming the greatest left back in Europe, better than Ashley Cole ever was etc.

I can recall Alan Hansen and other muppets slagging off Cole's performances for England, and always making him a scapegoat, but I can also remember Arsenal fans drooling over how good he was for us back then, but that seems a distant memory now.

Shame about his injury. :happy:

[Pierre]

Lahm isnt left-footed, so is at a slight disadvantage....


I think the World Cup has a way of distorting the actual skill levels of players.....such as Lahm

Granted, Clichy's crossing and heading is not at its best, but that comes with consistently playing...

He will improve at crossing as dramatically as Eboue, and he's heading too...

[Dundon's]

Time to break out the suits lads, Denilson looked a tidy little player tonight too, played as well as anyone for me.

[martin_cranie]

Indeed, young Denilson looks to be a brilliant prospect.

We were pretty damn good tonight. Controlled the game throughout. It seemed to be us against Dawson, who I thought was immense tonight. Hopefully Wenger will stick with a similar line-up for the final, albeit with the Beast back. I honestly think that sort of team can take on Chelsea, assuming that they rest one or two key players.

Should be an awesome final. I may well look into tickets.

[Nturtle]

I can recall Alan Hansen and other muppets slagging off Cole's performances for England, and always making him a scapegoat, but I can also remember Arsenal fans drooling over how good he was for us back then, but that seems a distant memory now.

Shame about his injury. :happy:

HAHA! Good one! Didn't even realise Cashley did himself in...too bad Gallas has the same affliction at Arsenal... :(

Well done to the lads....Interesting to see Diaby was good, as well as Denilson (in these forums)...hopefully they progress well and get a chance to play Chelsea. The hunger is certainly displayed by the youths...and it's good to see we didn't go for 4-5-1 etc....

EDIT::::: Class video....Cashley's prang...

http://leftback.info/?p=134

[Stella Artois]

Hopefully everyone will finally get off Hoyte's back now.

I love Ricardo Rocha.

[pistolpete]

Hopefully everyone will finally get off Hoyte's back now.

Good point.

It goes to show how people jump on someones back as soon as they aren't at their best - Gilberto, Adebayor, Senderos, Almunia, Flamini, Rosicky, Hoyte have all turned the critics in recent times.

Are we going to get people slating Walcott for his recent performances?
I hope not.

[pokey]

has anyone else been less than impressed by how poor Walcott has played in his last 3 games? k hes 20x better than me but his decision making is poor and his final ball has also been pretty poor, he got away from his man so many times in the 2nd leg but produced nothing...
stil think hes gona b a legend tho lol i was impressed with denilson and his passing cesc like lol

[Stella Artois]

has anyone else been less than impressed by how poor Walcott has played in his last 3 games? k hes 20x better than me but his decision making is poor and his final ball has also been pretty poor, he got away from his man so many times in the 2nd leg but produced nothing...
stil think hes gona b a legend tho lol i was impressed with denilson and his passing cesc like lol

He's 17, he can't be expected to turn match-winning performances in every week.

Let the kid develop I say.

[Dundon's]

It's a joke Stella, you know yourself he'll come good. You could say the same thing about any player trying to learn their trade at 17.

Lets not forget he's younger than most of the members in here and should still be going to school ffs.

17 lads ;)

[Dragonfly]

Denilson was very good again. He's got the potential to be great in every part of the game. He's an excellent passer, can strike a ball cleanly and fairly accurately, has tenacity and looks like he can tackle, and he can dribble. I think he prefers playing in the centre, but I wonder if he and Fabregas can play together in the centre. I know Denilson is more of a DM, but I would like to see him go forward a bit more of an attacking player.

Our future is brighter than Orange.

[calculus]

We're going to Cardiff to take on the might of Chelsea and we wont play our first 11 that is amazing! I can imagine the team already!

Almunia

Hoyte Toure Senderos Clichy(I'm not sure how bad Traores injury is)

Walcott Denilson Fabregas Diaby

Aliadiere Baptista

Though I think Gilberto may come in for the final in place of Denilson just for some extra experience!

Bench
Poom
Rosicky
Eboue
Henry
Adebayor

Depending on injuries and suspensions etc

[Stella Artois]

We're going to Cardiff to take on the might of Chelsea and we wont play our first 11 that is amazing! I can imagine the team already!

Almunia

Hoyte Toure Senderos Clichy(I'm not sure how bad Traores injury is)

Walcott Denilson Fabregas Diaby

Aliadiere Baptista

Though I think Gilberto may come in for the final in place of Denilson just for some extra experience!

Bench
Poom
Rosicky
Eboue
Henry
Adebayor

Depending on injuries and suspensions etc

Henry won't be in the squad.

Fabregas should be on the bench with Gilberto and Denilson playing centre-midfield.

[calculus]

Henry won't be in the squad.

Fabregas should be on the bench with Gilberto and Denilson playing centre-midfield.

:shocking: I forgot Flamini will probably make the squad as well but no Fab that would be disappointing :crymore:

[pistolpete]

I reckon Diaby should play instead of Gilberto - he looks as though he is the long term strong central midfielder with Cesc and others pulling the strings.

[Dragonfly]

I was thinking if Wenger should stay loyal to the players that have played the majority of the tournament and took us to the final, or play the strongest team possible, since Chelsea are very likely to do so.

I prefer the previous, just to truely see how good those players are, and what stage/level they are at. It would be brilliant and hilarious if our teenie-Gunners beat the Rubles.

[calculus]

I reckon Diaby should play instead of Gilberto - he looks as though he is the long term strong central midfielder with Cesc and others pulling the strings.

Don't you think Diaby is skillful enough to pull strings himself? That boy is a player... comfortable on the ball, strong, good passing, good drive and power he looks a better player than I thought he was before the injury!

I was thinking if Wenger should stay loyal to the players that have played the majority of the tournament and took us to the final, or play the strongest team possible, since Chelsea are very likely to do so.

I prefer the previous, just to truely see how good those players are, and what stage/level they are at. It would be brilliant and hilarious if our teenie-Gunners beat the Rubles.

I think AW has already said he will stick mainly with the team that got him to the final and TBH I think it is a good move them boys are hungry, energetic and talented and the experience will do them good!

[Stella Artois]

:shocking: I forgot Flamini will probably make the squad as well but no Fab that would be disappointing :crymore:

Fact is Cesc only came into the 1st leg as Gilberto was suspended. There's not a chance in hell both could play together and I personally think Gilberto has to play.

Diaby could play in the middle, but I'd prefer to see him out wide giving us a bit more protection - especially for Traore should he play.

[calculus]

We have CL in and around that time so it would be understandable if he left out Fab that boy is a GIANT contrary to what Cashley thinks!

[Stella Artois]

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/2981/687474702s6r657773696q6ms0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[Dundon's]

For pig I'll throw up the team that I reckon will start.

Almunia

Hoyte Toure Senderos Traore

Walcott Denilson Gilberto Diaby

Aliadiere Baptista

Has to be like...

[calculus]

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/2981/687474702s6r657773696q6ms0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

I really couldn't care less about cashley bringing out a book slating Arsenal players as if they are the reason he didnt get his money :realmad: I didnt realise he was injured until this morning which is a shame because I wanted our boys to win the LC and rub it in his face at the end especially Fab %^*& :realmad:

[Stella Artois]

I completely agree with that line-up. Its just a shame Chelsea take this so seriously as it'd be nice to see them play some of their youngsters...not that they have any.

[Dundon's]

Fuck em stella, it'll make it even sweeter if we can turn their best side over with our youth team.

[Stella Artois]

Very true.

Anyway, Mr Cole has made for a nice new avatar for myself. May he be out for a year or more.

[calculus]

Fuck em stella, it'll make it even sweeter if we can turn their best side over with our youth team.

Yeah I think them boys have shown they can handle pressure and what better than to go out on the ultimate stage with the ultimate test and wipe the smuggness of their faces:D

[calculus]

Very true.

Anyway, Mr Cole has made for a nice new avatar for myself. May he be out for a year or more.

:laugh: at your new avatar! What do you think Uri Geller will make of this? Arsenal fans negative energy towards Cashley resulting in him geting injured!

[Yi-Long]

What did Cashley Cole say about Fabregas?

And what other former collegues did he insult in his flop of a book?

[Viperized]

Damn right Stella. Ricardo Rocha... awesome assist. I never thought yesterday could get any better, but it did. Cole's injury.

I don't think we'll see the same side against Chelsea as we've played against Liverpool and Spurs.

I think we may field a slightly stronger team. Clichy for example may start ahead of Troare.

I'm convinced these players will start:

Hoyte (he hasn't done too bad either, hasn't he? I'm quite content with Hoyte as my second choice RB now. I've been critical at the beginning of the season, but you could clearly tell he has come on leaps and bounds since then)
Toure
Senderos
Gilberto
Denilson (He has been our most impressive youngster. Brazil U-18 captain too. He has shown such promise at such a young age. Does that remind you of any one in our starting 11?)
Walcott (Has been rather poor in the Carling Cup to be honest, but he is more likely to start. Hopefully he'll find his form sooner than later.)

[Viperized]

What did Cashley Cole say about Fabregas?

And what other former collegues did he insult in his flop of a book?
Senderos I think.

As I've said before, Clichy has been impressive this season and I don't miss Cuntley even at the very slightest. It's a shame Clichy is friends with him though!

[pistolpete]

Don't you think Diaby is skillful enough to pull strings himself? That boy is a player... comfortable on the ball, strong, good passing, good drive and power he looks a better player than I thought he was before the injury!


Yeah he could pull the strings but id still prefer a creative player in the middle with him - i think he is a huge prospect that everyone is keeping rather quiet about.

Il go with a team that is similar to dundons.

Almunia

Hoyte, Toure, Djorou, Traore

Walcott, Denilson, Diaby, Flamini

Baptista, Aliadiere

Obviously only play Djourou if he is fit as i believe he is better than Senderos, and Flamini can protect Traore, leaving lots of strengthyn in the middle.

[calculus]

What did Cashley Cole say about Fabregas?

And what other former collegues did he insult in his flop of a book?

I heard he made comments about being less important than the French lads or something along those lines and he said he couldn't believe Fabregas came in to replace Vieira hes a light weight compared to Vieira!

Also Ljungberg and RvP don't talk and there is no team spirit at Arsenal! Half the squad don't speak to each other outside of training-these are not quotes but gists of what I heard he said! Also Eboue when he came he was like who is he!? and on and on and on! :realmad:

[nikos24]

When is Gallas returning? I miss watching him. It's been months now that I haven't seen him play. :crymore:

[calculus]

When is Gallas returning? I miss watching him. It's been months now that I haven't seen him play. :crymore:

http://www.physioroom.com/news/english_premier_league/epl_injury_table.php

[Yi-Long]

Senderos I think.

As I've said before, Clichy has been impressive this season and I don't miss Cuntley even at the very slightest. It's a shame Clichy is friends with him though!

Aw ic ic. Thanks.

Yeah, I said it at the time of the CL finale, and I also said it a few pages back I think, but I never understood why Wenger felt it was necessary to allow Cashley to play that finale, cause Clichy and Flamini had both been very good in that position in the months prior to that final.
Cole shouldnt have been playing in that final. Unfair to the other players, and the guy had been out for too long as well.

(Bergkamp definately SHOULD have been allowed to play in that final, btw)

[Dragonfly]

Very true.

Anyway, Mr Cole has made for a nice new avatar for myself. May he be out for a year or more.

I think this is the first time I've seen you with a new avatar. I guess the end of the world is truly nigh.

[Dundon's]

Here's a good one, try naming the Arsenal team (starting 11) in 5 years time using only the squad we have now.

I'll go with...

Almunia

Eboue Toure Senderos Clichy

Hleb Denilson Fabregas Rosicky

Van Persie Walcott

[Scarface]

Lahm isnt left-footed, so is at a slight disadvantage....


I think the World Cup has a way of distorting the actual skill levels of players.....such as Lahm

It doesn't seem to hinder him in any way, and he has a decent left foot, in any case. Also, being right footed helps his attacking play, as he can cut inside on his trademark dribbles.

Lahm has been consistently excellent for both vfB Stuttgart and Bayern Munich, aswell as Germany. He's not a Hasan Sas or Asamoah Gyan.


Granted, Clichy's crossing and heading is not at its best, but that comes with consistently playing...

He will improve at crossing as dramatically as Eboue, and he's heading too...

I don't think that's a certainty, but let's hope so.

For pig I'll throw up the team that I reckon will start.

Almunia

Hoyte Toure Senderos Traore

Walcott Denilson Gilberto Diaby

Aliadiere Baptista

Has to be like...

Yeah, that looks likely. Only doubt might be Clichy over Traore, but he'll probably keep faith in Armand, and bring on Gael if necessary.

In 3 years time....

Almunia

Eboue
Toure
Senderos
Clichy

Diaby
Denilson
Fabregas
Rosicky/Fran Merida

Henry/Van Persie
Walcott

[vanNistelrooy]

Gallas in neither squad? Exactly how old is The Teenage Mutant Ninga Gallas?

[Scarface]

He's only 29, but by the time he reaches 32, Wenger will surely be persuading him to buy a zimmer frame...

[Dundon's]

Aye, I said five years just to weed out the likes of Henry Rosicky Gallas etc.

lol just read back my sentence, it's just sick.

[nikos24]

Yeah shame about that 30 year old plus policy in Arsenal.

But look at Reyes' squad, what is the average of that team? :shocking:

[Scarface]

If Fran Merida and Van Persie are included, rather than Rosicky and Henry, the average would be around 21 years old.

That team, maybe with the exception of Fran Merida (who's an unknown quantity at this point), could hold their own in the Premiership already. Within 3-5 years, the potential is unlimited.

[Viperized]

Next season could be very exciting too, with a couple of more youngsters being played in the Carling Cup.

We could have a very talented striker on our hands, who will surely get some appearances in the Carling Cup. His name? Carlos Vela.

I think Merida may also make his mark. He is supposed to be a brilliant prospect.

[ATH10]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/league_cup/6314293.stm

[Stella Artois]

I think this is the first time I've seen you with a new avatar. I guess the end of the world is truly nigh.

Indeed.

I loved Anders. :no:

[martin_cranie]

Abou Diaby has suffered another injury and faces another lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The midfielder, who has just returned from a nine month absence, has knee ligament damage.

Manager Arsène Wenger said: "Diaby is out with a knee problem, twisted ligaments.

"He has a scan later today."

We wish Diaby a speedy recovery and quick return

Source (http://arsenal-mania.com/news/3103601/Diaby-suffers-ligament-injury.html)

Bad news. Hopefully the damage isn't too major, and he can get back in to action soon.

[Dundon's]

Ahh FFS you're joking right?

[martin_cranie]

Unless Arsenal-Mania are joking, I'm afraid I'm not. According to F365, he's having a scan later today. It appears to be only a twist or strain, not a tear, so fingers crossed he won't be out for too long.

[pistolpete]

The poor lad, assuming this is true i wish him a speedy recovery.

Nothing on Arsenal website though, so fingers crossed.

[calculus]

I have been impressed with him during the CC and its a shame to see hes picked up another injury. Hopefully its not too long as he has huge potential!

Dundons Question:

Almunia

Eboue Toure Senderos Clichy

Hleb Fabregas Denilson Rosicky

RvP Walcott This team is the future!

[Nturtle]

Well...I'm hoping Almunia gets better....but I like the Buffon transfer rumour better! HA!

[pistolpete]

Arsenal injury news ahead of the Boro game from Arsenal website
Diaby will be out for a week, Adebayor passed fit.
Djourou back from hamstring problem.
Gallas, Hleb and Fredy all close to returning as is Eboue.
RVP out long term.

Denilson keeps his place in the squad - i think he will stay there, and its a matter of time before he moves ahead of Flamini in the pecking order.

[calculus]

Arsenal injury news ahead of the Boro game from Arsenal website
Diaby will be out for a week, Adebayor passed fit.
Djourou back from hamstring problem.
Gallas, Hleb and Fredy all close to returning as is Eboue.
RVP out long term.

Denilson keeps his place in the squad - i think he will stay there, and its a matter of time before he moves ahead of Flamini in the pecking order.

:w00t But remember he is still only 18 and I think AW will give him 2 more years to fully mature before we see him knocking on the first teams door...Our midfield is beginning to look super strong as these young players pick up experience!

My Predictions for the League Cup team next season:

Poom

Gilbert Djourou Senderos Traore

Walcott Denilson Diaby Merida

Bendtner Vela

:)

[pistolpete]

:w00t But remember he is still only 18 and I think AW will give him 2 more years to fully mature before we see him knocking on the first teams door...Our midfield is beginning to look super strong as these young players pick up experience!

My Predictions for the League Cup team next season:

Poom

Gilbert Djourou Senderos Traore

Walcott Denilson Diaby Merida

Bendtner Vela

:)



Wenger has proved that if youre good enough - you are old enough, Fabregas was getting lots of games at 17, Walcott is seeing plenty of action and he is only 17.
I believe Denilson has an old head on young shoulders and has been commanding in all the CC games he has played in, all full strength and all but one premiership teams.
Plus 18 isnt that young anymore - course he needs time to mature but i dont think that he is far off.

Good call with the CC team for next year, would love to see Bentdner / Merida / Vela.
I reckon that Poom will move in the summer and we will have a younger keeper next year.

I read yesterday that Wenger THINKS that Almunia will be his 1st choice next season if Lehmann leaves.

[calculus]

Wenger has proved that if youre good enough - you are old enough, Fabregas was getting lots of games at 17, Walcott is seeing plenty of action and he is only 17.
I believe Denilson has an old head on young shoulders and has been commanding in all the CC games he has played in, all full strength and all but one premiership teams.
Plus 18 isnt that young anymore - course he needs time to mature but i dont think that he is far off.

Good call with the CC team for next year, would love to see Bentdner / Merida / Vela.
I reckon that Poom will move in the summer and we will have a younger keeper next year.

I read yesterday that Wenger THINKS that Almunia will be his 1st choice next season if Lehmann leaves.


Yeah do you think he can handle the pressure of week in week out football? Great shot stopper and in 1 on 1 but is he commanding enough? Having said that I have grown to like him!

[Viperized]

Wenger has proved that if youre good enough - you are old enough, Fabregas was getting lots of games at 17, Walcott is seeing plenty of action and he is only 17.
I believe Denilson has an old head on young shoulders and has been commanding in all the CC games he has played in, all full strength and all but one premiership teams.
Plus 18 isnt that young anymore - course he needs time to mature but i dont think that he is far off.

Good call with the CC team for next year, would love to see Bentdner / Merida / Vela.
I reckon that Poom will move in the summer and we will have a younger keeper next year.

I read yesterday that Wenger THINKS that Almunia will be his 1st choice next season if Lehmann leaves.
Lol.

18 IS young.

How many top clubs in Europe let youngsters be part of their first team squad? Exactly.

[Bammers05]

I reckon next year our league cup team will look something like this:

-------------------Mannone------------------
--Gilbert------Connolly---Djourou------Traoré--
--Walcott-----Muamba---Denilson----Simpson-
--------------Bendtner--Aliadiere--------------

[calculus]

Why do Arsenal only start to play when we are 1-0 down?

And Senderos was unlucky to conceed a penalty but it was a sending off offence! :realmad:

We started so slowly today I just wonder if the boys are tired or something because that should have been a match we should of won!

[JoeyM]

We really missed one of Hleb or Eboue today, every time the ball went over the the right the best I could hope for was a throw in. It wouldn't have been so bad if Rosicky and Cesc didn't have such poor games, both of them were very very disappointing. Toure was good, Senderos was okay, and unlucky with the sending off. Hardly any contact, but Yakubu did enough to convince Riley that not only it was a foul, but that it was also inside the area. Clichy is a monster at the back, easily one of our best players. Ade grafted decently but gave the ball away a few too many times. Henry looked much better than in recent games, and his goal was perfect.

And Flamini was Flamini, ran around a lot and was generally useless, though tbf he was out of position.

We really should of made something of our dominance in the first half, Boro looked good in the first ten minutes, but apart from that it was all us, we need to start capitalising more when we're on top.

[pistolpete]

Lol.

18 IS young.

How many top clubs in Europe let youngsters be part of their first team squad? Exactly.

OK 18 is young but most players who are going to make an impact are in 1st team squads most weeks when they are 18.

It remains to be seen whether Almunia can be a 1st teamer, maybe commanding his area better will come with more games and confidence, but nobody can deny his shot stopping ability.

Watched the game today and we were disappointing.
Quite sloppy with our passing with Gilberto and Senderos the main culprits but Boro pressed us well.

I wonder if Mike Riley added up all the points he has mugged from us over the years he could avoid relegation.
Maybe we could request not to have him anymore - isnt there a ref who MANUre wont have?
It was never a penalty - Yakubu bought it, minimal contact and it was outside the box but maybe if Senderos was quicker he wouldnt have got into such a poor position, Gallas would have cleared up.

At least we showed resiliance in pulling back and getting a point.

[Viperized]

After watching today's performance, I'd have to say Flamini is crap. End of.

[PEM]

you just found out?

[Canadian, Eh?]

He was playing out of position.

We played alright in the second half before the red card. Henry couldn't be bothered in the first half, he must have had a rocket shoved up his ass at half time.

[mufcsean]

That or Adebayors cock

[Joel]

That or Adebayors cock

Guess that would explain the dancing together :erm:

[PEM]

:lol:

[Rossy Boy]

:laugh:

[northlondon]

That or Adebayors cock

you dirty bastard

hehe

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Again we're blowing our chances against weaker team and conceded points in games we shouldn't.

[Dundon's]

Are you guys on drugs?

Getting anything out of that game after the card was a championship winning preformance.

And Flamini is the new Phil Neville world, no matter where you put the young fellow he gives it 100% and always in the past has done a job for us, are we forgetting last season when the poor bloke stepped into the left back role for almost the whole champions league run only to lose out in the final to that prick Cashley due to injury.

Come on lads cop yourselves on. ;)

[Viperized]

In the first half, it looked like we really didn't give a shit.

Why do we step up as soon as we concede a goal?

[Bammers05]

And Flamini is the new Phil Neville world, no matter where you put the young fellow he gives it 100% and always in the past has done a job for us, are we forgetting last season when the poor bloke stepped into the left back role for almost the whole champions league run only to lose out in the final to that prick Cashley due to injury.

Well said, Flamini certainly isn't the most glamorous player on the pitch, but he will always give his best whatever position he is in....even if his best isn't very good

As for the performance, I think that we need to start performing right from the beginning in matches, rather than when we go one goal behind

[Viperized]

Flamini is shit.

Walcott should've started ahead of him. Denilson should've started ahead of him even.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Although he is not the most talented player he'll still run his ass off and tries his best everygame.

I don't mind him being in the squad as he is versatile but he'll have to improve his ability on the ball that is for sure.

[pistolpete]

If we tried hard to score at the start of a game then - if we did score we would be able to defend the lead and play on the break, something we know we are good at.
I dont nuderstand how we have had som many non performances in 1st halfs this season - The only game i can remember when we went at it from the start was Reading away. Almost every other game we have only started playing after HT or when we go behind.

[Viperized]

Although he is not the most talented player he'll still run his ass off and tries his best everygame.

I don't mind him being in the squad as he is versatile but he'll have to improve his ability on the ball that is for sure.
Walcott can play on the wings.
Flamini can't.

So its logical that Walcott should've started instead.

Also, Denilson is 10 times the player Flamini will ever be. He was simply amazing against the Spuds in both of the legs in the Carling Cup. He looks like the real deal, and looks as promising as Fabregas was when he was 17.

[Stella Artois]

Viperized for once, shut up. Your criticism of our players is pathetic and I'm bored and sick of it.

Even support them or fuck off and support United like all the other fickle cunts do.

[Viperized]

The only player I've criticised is Flamini...

But it is rather bizzare that Flamini was chosen over Walcott, who is a winger.

I guess I'll have to get used to seeing him on the team sheet. I can't imagine Wenger picking any one else until Hleb returns from injury.

[Stella Artois]

Do you want me to go back over your posts and show the criticism you'd had over a lot of our players? Don't make me embarrass you.

Fact is Walcott was piss-poor against the Spuds, hence the fact he wasn't chosen.

[Viperized]

To save you the trouble, I've looked back at my last set of posts myself.

I couldn't find any criticism of our players, other than Flamini.

[Stella Artois]

Never criticised Adebayor? :rolleyes:

Ask anyone who reads this thread and the first person to stick the boot in when things go wrong is you. You're very fickle at times.

[calculus]

Lads please all this in fighting its not healthy!

Let me point something out to you all...AW always has a player who can play in many positions. Before Flamini there was Grimandi-Remember him the player who would come in and fill any position across midfield or at the back :rolleyes: If you dont have the necessary skill nonw then you won't magically acquire it now. I used to wonder about Flamini but now I think to myself that he has the quality to be in the squad...couild anybody on this site walk in to the Arsenal team? :no:


Has Anyone heard about the rumour that Henry could leave for £25m at the end of the season?

[ThierryHenry14]

yeah i saw that on sky sports news last night i hope it's not true probably isn't why would he of signed a 4 year contract only to leave a year after

[Viperized]

Lads please all this in fighting its not healthy!

Let me point something out to you all...AW always has a player who can play in many positions. Before Flamini there was Grimandi-Remember him the player who would come in and fill any position across midfield or at the back :rolleyes: If you dont have the necessary skill nonw then you won't magically acquire it now. I used to wonder about Flamini but now I think to myself that he has the quality to be in the squad...couild anybody on this site walk in to the Arsenal team? :no:


Has Anyone heard about the rumour that Henry could leave for £25m at the end of the season?
I know Flamini isn't blessed with technique, but at times, I've wondered why he thinks he does. Flamini isn't Maradona. He should stop trying to dribble his way out of tight positions on the pitch. Against Boro he lost possession far too many times due to this. He should've kept it simple and passed the ball to Fabregas, Gilberto or someone.

[JoeyM]

The problem with Flamini is that he hasn't improved at all since we've gotten him. When we got him he was a young player who had a good engine but needed plenty of work. Now he's a slightly older player who still has a good engine and still needs work.

I've said before that in a 4-4-2 he's useless unless playing as a full back. In a 4-5-1 he's somewhat more useful as his running and tenacity offer something different from Gilberto and Cesc. But 4-5-1 seems to be a thing of the past now.

[Viperized]

Calculus, is this what you mean:

Thierry Henry will be allowed to leave Arsenal in the summer, with Real Madrid or Barcelona likely to pay £25m for his signature. (Sunday Express, Daily Star)

I can't imagine it being true. We declined a £50 million bid from Barcelona and Real Madrid, so why would we now accept a £25m bid? He is still a very important player to us, a world-class striker and our captain. Now Van Persie and Baptista are injured, Henry is our only natural finisher. Adebayor can chip in goals time from time, but he isn't exactly prolific.

Also, look at this:

Sheikh Mohammed will make a £450m takeover move for Arsenal after his Dubai International Capital group pulled out of negotiations for Liverpool this week. (The People)

The People are generally known for speaking shit. Then again, never say never. Our sponsor Fly Emirates is Dubai based... I can't imagine it going through though.

Arsenal are chasing teenage Czech defender Ondrej Mazuch, who plays for FC Brno. (News of the World)

The Gunners have pipped Liverpool to sign France Under-16 prodigy Gilles Sunu from Chateauroux (Daily Star)

These two could be true, as we usually sign youngsters..

[Viperized]

The problem with Flamini is that he hasn't improved at all since we've gotten him. When we got him he was a young player who had a good engine but needed plenty of work. Now he's a slightly older player who still has a good engine and still needs work.

I've said before that in a 4-4-2 he's useless unless playing as a full back. In a 4-5-1 he's somewhat more useful as his running and tenacity offer something different from Gilberto and Cesc. But 4-5-1 seems to be a thing of the past now.
Flamini would struggle to hold his ground in a 442 formation as he lacks the ability to keep possession. He lost possession far too many times against Boro.

[Stella Artois]

The problem with Flamini is that he hasn't improved at all since we've gotten him. When we got him he was a young player who had a good engine but needed plenty of work. Now he's a slightly older player who still has a good engine and still needs work.

I've said before that in a 4-4-2 he's useless unless playing as a full back. In a 4-5-1 he's somewhat more useful as his running and tenacity offer something different from Gilberto and Cesc. But 4-5-1 seems to be a thing of the past now.

So what do we do? Sell him? Fact is we always seem to have a mountain of injuries so as a squad player he's useful - you only have to remember last season!

[calculus]

Flamini won't improve beyond what he is now its just they way it is and like I said AW always has 1 of these players in the team ref: Grimandi and before him there was another hard working french player but I can't remember his name.


Anyway I'm watching Spurs-Man U if you had to choose 1 of these teams to win the match which team would you choose?

My choice Spurs :shocking:

No sitting on the fence with draw because that is not an option! :ninja:

[jw7103]

i don't c why wenger started with flamini yesterday. Surely with the pace of Walcott it would of made more sense to cause problems for the boro defence and then bring flamini on to defend a lead towards the end of the game. I have never really rated flamini as a midfield as he gives the ball away to often. His best position in my opinion is as a full back.
Mind you if u look at the replays of the penalty decision very closely then the ref got it wrong as the contact and the fall was originally outside the box.

[Viperized]

Yakubu said: "He didn't touch me but fortunately we had the penalty."

[jw7103]

typical. it looked like a dive at first but when i saw his arm across him i wasn't 100% sure. But it just proves that my inital thought was correct.

[vanNistelrooy]

Yakubu said: "He didn't touch me but fortunately we had the penalty."
Looked similar to the Ronaldo penalty, only looked like there might have been contact (although the Yak said there wasn't).

[pistolpete]

Isnt that admitting to diving?

Flamini was picked ahead of Walcott on wing because Boro's best player or main threat is Downing on their left, Flamini's defensive energy and closing down was useful as Downing may have troubled Hoyte more.
Wenger also played Diaby out of position on the left wing in the 1st leg vs Spurs to help protect Traore against Lennon. It makes sense to me.
Any news on Diabys injury?

[Viperized]

Diaby is only out for one week.

[Viperized]

Looked similar to the Ronaldo penalty, only looked like there might have been contact (although the Yak said there wasn't).
There was hardly any contact.

Senderos just put his hand on his shoulder, but Yakubu fell like a girl.

[wrigh2uk]

Calculus, is this what you mean:

Thierry Henry will be allowed to leave Arsenal in the summer, with Real Madrid or Barcelona likely to pay £25m for his signature. (Sunday Express, Daily Star)



Enough said

[jw7103]

henry has just signed a new 4yr contract y would arsenal sell a player they fought tooth and nail to keep.

[pistolpete]

Plus the Express and the Star are published by the same company.

[Scarface]

Calculus, is this what you mean:

Thierry Henry will be allowed to leave Arsenal in the summer, with Real Madrid or Barcelona likely to pay £25m for his signature. (Sunday Express, Daily Star)



:laugh:



Arsenal are chasing teenage Czech defender Ondrej Mazuch, who plays for FC Brno. (News of the World)

Bayer Leverkusen ended up signing him on deadline day for around £1m, as Mazuch didn't want to make a big move away yet, and will use Leverkusen as a stepping stone to greater things.

He's meant to be very promising, but it's not like we need more central defenders.


The Gunners have pipped Liverpool to sign France Under-16 prodigy Gilles Sunu from Chateauroux (Daily Star)



That one has been announced as a done deal, with the move set to go through once he reaches the age of 16, next month.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Even though Henry did not dominant teams as he used to be before, he'll not leave nuff said, at least not when he is still able to play. Saying that he'll leave is atrocious.

[Dundon's]

The way I look at it is if Henry or anyone else wants to leave they can fuck off and join the likes of Petit, Overmars, Anelka and Paddy and we'll see where it gets them.

I tend to not worry about these things.

[Zoolander]

The way I look at it is if Henry or another else wants to leave they can fuck off and join the likes of Petit, Overmars, Anelka and Paddy and we'll see where it gets them.

I tend to not worry about these things.

And Van Bronkhorst! ;)

[calculus]

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has told Gunners fans "you know where my heart is" after renewed speculation linking him with Barcelona and Real Madrid. (Daily Mirror) Source: BBC website

:cool:

[Dundon's]

I know ya, the bloke only signed a new deal, if he wanted to do a Paddy he'd be off long ago.

[calculus]

Theo Walcott has not given up on the Premiership title yet.

It will be a very tall order of course. This weekend’s results saw Arsenal fall 17 points behind Manchester United with only 13 games left to play. But, despite the enormity of the task, the 17-year-old winger believes his side’s spirit should not be underestimated.

“We can’t give up,” he told Arsenal.com after Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough. “I feel we’ll definitely be there for the Champions League places and hopefully we can push on for the top three. But we still can’t forget about the Premiership [title].

“There is a good spirit through the whole camp at the moment and we are full of confidence.

“This result may set us back a little bit. We were expected winners but don’t take credit away from Middlesbrough. They played really well. It was tough for us but I think we battled well with 10 men.”

:laugh:

[Scarface]

Yeah, it is only 14 points if we win our game in hand, after all. :rolleyes:

It's getting embarrassing all this title talk nonsense. Just concentrate on getting above Liverpool and then trying to push Chelsea for second.

[mufcsean]

Yeah same here, i dont understand why people still think Liverpool and Arsenal still have a chance at the title, i think arseanl could push for 2nd at the very very best but i cant even see that happening, though i am sure you will finish higher than Liverpool

[Viperized]

Yeah, it is only 14 points if we win our game in hand, after all. :rolleyes:

It's getting embarrassing all this title talk nonsense. Just concentrate on getting above Liverpool and then trying to push Chelsea for second.
Yep.

[Nturtle]

Well....it is quite embarassing....just play good football dammit! Grrr....show some commitment! And give us a bit of luck....

[Zoolander]

Can i just say Flamini is in the France squad! :laugh:

[mufcsean]

:laugh:

[Stella Artois]

Can i just say Flamini is in the France squad! :laugh:

Carrick's in the England squad. :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[Zoolander]

Toche!

[Dundon's]

Carrick's in the England squad. :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

And Gary Neville is the captain of manchester utd :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[nikos24]

And Gary Neville is the captain of manchester utd :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Nah dude, I'm sure he ain't that bad.. His brother on the other hand.. :laugh:

[Dundon's]

Ah now, be nice. :laugh:

[Nturtle]

Heh....you guys crack me up!

Well, what was interesting for me was how willing Arsenal are to get Emirates coverage....and to get the ground in shape to perhaps host a major game, Champs league Final etc etc....it's all about the money...so high profile games lika Brazil Portugal, Brazil Argentina...it's all good stuff!

Interesting to see Ben Foster getting the nod vs. Robinson in the England squad...it's a shame we don't have a good young keeper out on loan playing regularly.

[Jonny2J]

And Gary Neville is the captain of manchester utd :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:Gary Neville's a quality player that's why.

[Stella Artois]

Gary Neville's a quality player that's why.

I'd say he's consistent as opposed to being class. He gets found out against a decent left-winger.

[Dundon's]

Gary Neville's a quality player that's why.

Ahhh....:happy:

*Thinks back to the days of Overmars ripping the bollox off him down the wing.*

But I suppose he's handy on a good day when you're tearing the heart out of the likes of Watford or Spurs.

[Yi-Long]

Never really been impressed by neville. Dont like him as a player nor as a person. But Stella is right that he is consistent, and he's nota horrible player. Just not very impressive. A bit of a tit, really.

[martin_cranie]

The Neviller's only world class ability is his work ethic/dedication. He's solid and consistent and that's about it. He doesn't really possess any world class skills. He's still a good RB in my opinion, but there are far better around.

[Dundon's]

Well if I was to be perfectly honest I'd have to admit he's got a good cross, a cross that helped win many a point in the dieing minutes of games.

But he's not my cup of tea.

[Nturtle]

I think hoyte is turning out to be a bit of a Neville then...not spectacular like the diving Eboue...but not as stupid with antics...I'm hopeing Gilbert makes the grade and provides us with some stability a la Clichy.

[Viperized]

Well, Eboue is a fantastic right-back. He offers so much to the team. Yes he dives, but can you see Man Utd dropping C. Ronaldo? No.

He is the one who made the 2nd goal against United happen, as well as providing many other vital contributions.