Arsenal

[Viperized]

Speaking of that;



Source (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_2820020,00.html)

A little bit Drogba esque.

What he said about Almunia was very nasty though.
Lehmann has never been best of friends with Almunia, so its not surprising to hear this.

[Stella Artois]

Irrelevant. You keep your thoughts in-house.

Jens is very quick to forgot that the only points we've dropped thus far have been down to him.

Frankly I think he's past it and Manuel Faulty is poor. Then again Wenger has always had a blind spot for keepers.

[alpine goal]

Pure Football !

[Keyser Soze]

It pains me to say, but Arsenal are just too much this season if they carry on like they did tonight. Honestly one of the best footballing performances I've seen in a long time. Great stuff.

[Scarface]

Speaking of that;



Source (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_2820020,00.html)

A little bit Drogba esque.

What he said about Almunia was very nasty though.

He's a patronising cunt. I'm grateful for his FA Cup final heroics and his performances during the 05/06 season, but his attitude is appalling, and Wenger will find no room to have such a prick in his squad any longer. I'm certain he'll be off in January and good riddance to him.

I'd rather we keep Almunia as our #1 or give Fabianski a chance, than sign Robert Green. He's a good shot-stopper, but lacks presence and doesn't command his area very well.

I think we're more likely to sign a less established goalkeeper, such as that young goalkeeper we were linked with recently. Jarstain or something or other.

I thought Hleb, before he was taken off the pitch, was easily the best player of the team.

He was brilliant in every way.

Yeah, and not for the first time this season. He's been up there with Cesc. He still gives the ball away too sloppily sometimes, but most of his play has been fantastic this season.

Really glad about how Theo is doing now. I've never rated him when he's been wide on the right, but when he came on against Sunderland and Bolton, he made a big difference. Though as a striker is i'm sure where we'll see the best of him.

[Stella Artois]

Nice to see even you have the ability to be complimentary about us. :shocking:

Still, the bigger tests are to come. No need to get excited.


Yeah, and not for the first time this season. He's been up there with Cesc. He still gives the ball away too sloppily sometimes, but most of his play has been fantastic this season.


That's a myth. He had the best passing completion rate last year.

[ThierryHenry14]

damm i cant wait to brag about this at school next week hopefully a win against liverpool will make it oh so sweeter,
great performance from the team tonight i thought walcott was going to get a hat trick

[Scarface]

I wasn't surprised to hear that, as he receives so much of the ball, doesn't have the passing range of Fabregas, and is at the heart of most of our attacking play, but I still feel he gives the ball away too cheaply a few times too many for a player of his class. Even tonight, a couple of times he passed to one of the Slavia players when an Arsenal player wasn't within 10 yards. I'm not going to criticise his performance because of that, as he was quality, but that's the one flaw I believe he can improve on.

[Stella Artois]

I don't disagree with you there, I just feel that he's criticised far too much for his so-called sloppy passing - and that's not to single you out either. As Wenger has said, he's the sort of player who almost tries to pass through the eye of a needle.

Suffice to say he's adding goals and some supber performances to make him an extremely important player for us this season. Long may it continue.

Any thoughts on the team against the bin dippers? I reckon we'll go 4-4-1-1 myself with Hleb supporting Ade. No matter how badly some are saying Liverpool are playing, you cannot deny that it is generally always a tough fixture.

Manuel Faulty
Sagna Toure Gallas Clichy
Eboue Cesc Flamini Rosicky
Hleb
Ade

[Dragonfly]

I nearly spunked all over the TV. What a great, complete performance. It was one of the best football performances I've seen in my lifetime. From Almunia to Walcott, we were amazing. I know Slavia weren't great, but they had no chance against us tonight. Hleb and Fabregas ran the show.

Manuel Faulty
Sagna Toure Gallas Clichy
Eboue Cesc Flamini Rosicky
Hleb
Ade
I'd expect that to be the team.

[wrigh2uk]

Lovely win last nite, Hlebs finally showing why we paid that 10m for him, he was brillant last nite

Arsenal over taking Barca anyone ?

[Bammers05]

Great performance, last night

Hopefully, there will be more of the same on Sunday

[Barry]

Great job! We couldn't even beat them :/

[Stella Artois]

Does that mean we'd beat you 9-0?

[Viperized]

I don't disagree with you there, I just feel that he's criticised far too much for his so-called sloppy passing - and that's not to single you out either. As Wenger has said, he's the sort of player who almost tries to pass through the eye of a needle.

Suffice to say he's adding goals and some supber performances to make him an extremely important player for us this season. Long may it continue.

Any thoughts on the team against the bin dippers? I reckon we'll go 4-4-1-1 myself with Hleb supporting Ade. No matter how badly some are saying Liverpool are playing, you cannot deny that it is generally always a tough fixture.

Manuel Faulty
Sagna Toure Gallas Clichy
Eboue Cesc Flamini Rosicky
Hleb
Ade
Hmm I'm not sure if that is the team I'd like to see. Replace Eboue with Hleb and stick Walcott with Ade, and thats the team I'd like to see.

Eduardo hasn't got many games lately. I would've liked to see him start against Liverpool since he is a goal threat, but he seems short of match practise.

[Stella Artois]

I'll put a tenner on it, that it doesn't happen.

Scoring against Sparta Prague is light years away from scoring against Liverpool.

[Viperized]

I'll put a tenner on it, that it doesn't happen.

Scoring against Sparta Prague is light years away from scoring against Liverpool.
Of course.

But he did score against the Chelsea first team.

I would've ideally liked Eduardo and Adebayor to start. But I'm pretty sure that won't happen.

[Stella Artois]

Of course.

But he did score against the Chelsea first team.

I would've ideally liked Eduardo and Adebayor to start. But I'm pretty sure that won't happen.

But then again he went 20-odd games before scoring against them. Works both ways unfortunately.

I'm pretty sure we'll see the team I've named. The only alternative I see is Eduardo up-front as opposed to Theo.

[Joel]

How comes Flamini is starting ahead of Gilberto Silva?

[Stella Artois]

Because he's been incredible. :cool:

Give the man a new contract.

[Dragonfly]

Because he's been incredible. :cool:

Give the man a new contract.

Hear, hear! I'm glad Wenger has stuck with Flamini; it promotes the the importance of consistency and the reward you get for it. However, Gilberto is unlucky not to get back in, since he's been excellent for us. Then again, look what this says about the quality of our players. :cool:

[ThierryHenry14]

I'll put a tenner on it, that it doesn't happen.

Scoring against Slavia Prague is light years away from scoring against Liverpool.
changed the team name
it was slavia prague
why does everyone put manuel faulty where almunia's name should be

[Calzone]

Who would you Arsenal fans rather have as your Goalkeeper? Lehmann or Almunia?

Bit of a thing between the two. :w00t

[Dundon's]

Get that plonker Lehmann out the door. I heard it straight from the horses mouth in an interview he done on RTE, he'll kill the dressing room with them vibes.

Get him gones.....

[JoeyM]

Lehmann. Almunia never was and never will be good enough to be our first choice.

[Dundon's]

I'm hoping Fabianski works out as well as half the youngsters we're after bringing through. If he does (and Wenger rates him World Class) we're sorted.

Lehmann on his day is a good keeper no doubt, but we really don't need this shit talk he's sprouting out left right and center these last few weeks. Personally I can't see him playing for us again, unless something really fucked happens between now and the next transfer window.

[Joel]

I'm hoping Fabianski works out as well as half the youngsters we're after bringing through. If he does (and Wenger rates him World Class) we're sorted.

Lehmann on his day is a good keeper no doubt, but we really don't need this shit talk he's sprouting out left right and center these last few weeks. Personally I can't see him playing for us again, unless something really fucked happens between now and the next transfer window.

Don't give Lehmann any ideas.

[Wan]

Maybe he'll return to Germany.
Maybe Stuttgart?

[Nturtle]

Get that plonker Lehmann out the door. I heard it straight from the horses mouth in an interview he done on RTE, he'll kill the dressing room with them vibes.

Get him gones.....

Quite right...his ego is TOO much...he's a great keeper...but his mistakes have really cost us too much and we were lucky it didn't de-rail us from doing so well.

a bit of humility wouldn't go amiss...but it sounds like he is a gonna...:no:

[Dundon's]

Yea I think so too. He reminds me of that nutter goalkeeper that used to be in the tv show dreamteam years and years ago.

He'll do a job for someone no doubt but he's just not right for us at the moment. If Rosicky and Gilberto can take one for the team then he should be able to as well.

P.S. Gilberto is next to walk I'm afraid. Maybe Juventus.

[gollan]

Yea I think so too. He reminds me of that nutter goalkeeper that used to be in the tv show dreamteam years and years ago.

He'll do a job for someone no doubt but he's just not right for us at the moment. If Rosicky and Gilberto can take one for the team then he should be able to as well.

P.S. Gilberto is next to walk I'm afraid. Maybe Juventus.

It would be a shame, but in essence its Arsene's system. Flamini is not as technic and lacks the vision, but he's hard working and doesn't mind doing all the hard labour. And Gilbo is getting old. And we got Diarra. So yeah, I also think he might leave - but then again, we're in a process of getting younger.

[Dragonfly]

Yeah, I have a bad feeling Gilberto might be leaving too. I read on an interview that he found it frustrating that he's not starting any more, and he was also disappointed not to have been made captain. So, this double whammy might be enough for him to look for a move - I hope not.

Like you said Gollan, we have Diarra, so we still have good cover. There's Denilson too, although he not so much a defensive midfielder, I feel, and more of a center midfielder, like Fabregas.

Maybe Wenger prefers a younger squad, because they may be more likely to follow his tactics than older player, who are more set in their ways?

[AgentZero]

cant drop almunia, been much better than Lehmann. Whats the extent of Robins injuries?

[Stella Artois]

I don't think that's the reason Dragonfly. Wenger was recently quoted as saying he feels Diaby is well on the way to being World Class soon, so maybe he doesn't feel he needs him anymore.

By the way, you both forgot him. ;)

cant drop almunia, been much better than Lehmann. Whats the extent of Robins injuries?

4-6 weeks. Which in Arsenal terms means 3 months.

[AgentZero]

man that suck

[gollan]

I don't think that's the reason Dragonfly. Wenger was recently quoted as saying he feels Diaby is well on the way to being World Class soon, so maybe he doesn't feel he needs him anymore.

By the way, you both forgot him. ;)



4-6 weeks. Which in Arsenal terms means 3 months.

How could I...

Wenger is a cruel Eskimo, sending out the old fellas out to the glaciers on their own...

:(

And Lehman's time has come, too.

[Stella Artois]

Deservedly so in my opinion. The way he has run his mouth has been disgraceful.

[Dragonfly]

By the way, you both forgot him. ;)

Nah, I was thinking about including him, but he's been playing on the left recently - I assume to increase his dribbling ability before putting him back into the centre - and he's proven to be reckless when playing as a DMF, so I don't know if Wenger is planning to play him them in the future.

[gollan]

Nah, I was thinking about including him, but he's been playing on the left recently - I assume to increase his dribbling ability before putting him back into the centre - and he's proven to be reckless when playing as a DMF, so I don't know if Wenger is planning to play him them in the future.

Him playing on the left is a default, when we don't have Hleb or Roza. Or Theo... :cool:

Anyway, he is destined to dominate the midfield and in my opinion he should be rated before Diarra as someone to pitch in rotating with Flamini.

[Viperized]

I think Gilberto is better suited against the bigger teams like Man United and Chelsea. His positioning and defensive ability is better than Flamini's. Don't want him to leave. I've always liked Gilberto and is one of the few experienced players left in our squad.

[Dundon's]

Yeah in a few games this season when we were leading late on some sides started creating chances despite us dominating the game, I've noticed Wenger pulls him off the bench as soon as the concentration levels start to dip.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

predictions for the biggest game of league so far.... away to liverpool??

i reckon a 2-1 win.

a goalless 1st half then we will score 2 quick goals and liverpool will get a late late consolation goal.

Hleb was so impressive in midweek and I'm backing him to score and i think Adebayor will score aswell. Babel to get Liverpool's goal (if he plays, of course).

Post up ur predictions gooners,

[AgentZero]

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/7108/duel7lo0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Mr Artois i have come here to challenge you to another wager similar to that of ours last season..if Manchester United beats arsenal i will dispose of this ridiculous statement under my sig and you must place Manchester United > Arsenal.....but in the instance that United loses i will boldify and increase font size.

do we have an agreement?
:duel:

[RB14 ARSENAL]

what if its a draw ???

[AgentZero]

things remain the way it is..

[gollan]

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/7108/duel7lo0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Mr Artois i have come here to challenge you to another wager similar to that of ours last season..if Manchester United beats arsenal i will dispose of this ridiculous statement under my sig and you must place Manchester United > Arsenal.....but in the instance that United loses i will boldify and increase font size.

do we have an agreement?
:duel:

Stella as your legal advisor I advise you to decline the offer and make a coutner offer:

Boldifying + manifying + a derogatory comment on ManU at your discretion.

It's very customary for a double-or-nothing situation.

My fees are 200$ an hour. Thanks in advance.

[Stella Artois]

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/7108/duel7lo0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Mr Artois i have come here to challenge you to another wager similar to that of ours last season..if Manchester United beats arsenal i will dispose of this ridiculous statement under my sig and you must place Manchester United > Arsenal.....but in the instance that United loses i will boldify and increase font size.

do we have an agreement?
:duel:

How could I not agree. I'll have a sig similar to yours if I lose. If you lose:

Arsenal > Man Utd


That would have to be the new signature size and font.

Gollan, it's OK, this one is in the bag.

[DJ Clue]

We have no new injurys after mid-weeks 7-0 win, only players sidelined Senderos and Van Persie.

[Phatmann]

We have no new injurys after mid-weeks 7-0 win, only players sidelined Senderos and Van Persie.

Well let's hope you get a few injuries today then :) I wouldn't mind Fabregas being out for a week :shifty:

[DJ Clue]

Your are a mean, mean man.

[Viperized]

SHOOT! We're not shooting at all. Adebayor should've scored. Eboue should've scored.

We have played some good football at times but it has been fairly frustrating so far. At least we're playing better than Liverpool at the moment. Hopefully we can get a goal quickly in the second half to equalise and still have a chance to win this game.

Ade is playing poorly. Making some horrid decisions out there. Where the heck is Eduardo? He isn't even on the bench!

We better turn this around. Liverpool are playing shit and we should take advantage.

[DJ Clue]

Yeah.
Eduardo not on the bench, what?

[Jonny2J]

You seem to be lacking numbers in the box at the moment, a bit of penetration if you will.

Also expect to see the return of Mr. Kelso after his prolonged absence again.

*Edit*

GET THE FUCK IN.

[Rossy Boy]

Yes Fabregas!

[Jonny2J]

Yes Fabregas!No it's Cesc. ;)

[Rossy Boy]

:laugh: Back at the top :smug:

[Viperized]

Should've won. We should've won. No question about it.

We played very well in the last 15 mins. I just cannot believe we didn't win though.

All those missed chances... :(

Still, at least we didn't lose, because we clearly deserved something in this game if you consider our performance.

[Top Gun]

Carragher got away with another pull. :realmad:

Can't complain about two rivals dropping points though.

[Rossy Boy]

Carragher got away with another pull. :realmad:

Can't complain about two rivals dropping points though.

I know :realmad:

[JoeyM]

Good result, but Liverpool are fundamentally very average. We should've won

[Rossy Boy]

:realmad: How did Carragher get man of the match

[Joel]

Carragher got away with another pull. :realmad:

Can't complain about two rivals dropping points though.

Agreed.

Let's hope for another draw next week :agree:

[Stella Artois]

No doubt once Viperized has time to make a post, it'll contain all the usual negative bollocks.

We didn't win, but for me it was a case of two points lost, as opposed to a point gained. Liverpool will be wondering how they managed to escape without a drubbing as I really and truly believed we were far, far better than they were. We kept the ball well and the movement and passing was absolutely superb. Liverpool on the other hand were bland, boring and lacked any imagination whatsoever. Was it me, or did anyonelse find it incredibly ironic to hear the Liverpool fans yell, "hoof!" when we cleared the ball from defence?

The team played excellently and we musn't forget lads, we aren't even going to make the Champions League this year. ;)

[Adammce05]

You guys played alot better than we did, that's true. However, one positive point for Liverpool was Gerrard seemed to be back to his usual self(dont start Stella I know you hate him and everything he stands for.) You's should have took three though, your passing was flawless, and you's gave the woodwork heavy abuse.

Shoulda been 3-1 or 3-2 I think to Arsenal. At Anfield too. Ufft...

[Jonny2J]

Fabregas>Gerrard.

Seems to have matured a lot more as well this season, as in cutting out the petulance which you all know I loved. ;)

He's a joy to watch and long may it continue.

[Stella Artois]

Fabregas>Gerrard.

Seems to have matured a lot more as well this season, as in cutting out the petulance which you all know I loved. ;)

He's a joy to watch and long may it continue.

Best midfielder in the world.

It's time people just accepted it too.

He ran the show at Liverpool away; which is supposedly the hardest thing in football.

[Viperized]

No doubt once Viperized has time to make a post, it'll contain all the usual negative bollocks.
You are right.

How shit we were. We were just fucking shit.

Yep.

Absolutely crap.

We're so crap that we can't beat liverpool at Anfield. THATS HOW CRAP WE ARE!!!!

!!!!!!!!!!!









:|

[DJ Clue]

Yeah we've should've won no doubt.
Still a point will do.

[Stella Artois]

Well you were already complaining about Ade. It's tiresome. Every time we're a goal down or not winning you have a moan in some form or another.

You should keep away from the computer during games and just comment at the end. Really does make you look fickle.

[Viperized]

Well you were already complaining about Ade. It's tiresome. Every time we're a goal down or not winning you have a moan in some form or another.

You should keep away from the computer during games and just comment at the end. Really does make you look fickle.
I only mentioned that Ade should've scored and was playing poorly.

Aren't I allowed to comment on whether certain players are playing good or bad? Is it against the rules (if there are any)?

[Stella Artois]

No, of course not. Is it extremely tiresome and very boring? Yes.

[Keyser Soze]

Great performance, you were unlucky not to get more out of the game but that's life. Hleb is a joy to watch this season, he's improved so much from last season.
Best midfielder in the world.

Nein.

[Viperized]

Yeah Hleb has been brilliant. He hardly gets a mention.
Nein.
Who has played better recently?

[Stella Artois]

Give me a better one.

[JoeyM]

Ade was pretty rubbish today though. I normally don't mind it when he misses chances because he contributes loads to our overall play, but he did none of that today.

[mufcsean]

On current form Fabregas is the best midfielder in Europe, could be the world but i dont watch football outside of Europe

[Stella Artois]

Ade was pretty rubbish today though. I normally don't mind it when he misses chances because he contributes loads to our overall play, but he did none of that today.

Thing is, he's not a natural goalscorer. I can accept the criticism of his finishing, but he does a job for us, and he's very effective at it.

I just get frustrated with reading his (Viperized's) negative comments. They always come after 35 minutes when we're losing, as though we won't possibly win.

I thought Hleb was fantastic yet again today. He, Flamini and Cesc really ran the show in the middle of the park and the football was terrific to watch.

[Scarface]

Probably the only time I can remember other than the 2-2 in 2003 when Mark Halsey and Heskey robbed us, where i've been so disappointed with a draw from Anfield.

Some of our play was superb, and we could easily have won on another day, so it's difficult to be critical, by why did Flamini move out the wall, to leave a clear gap when Cesc was already occupying the area he was moving into? I can understand Almunia reacting furiously, as he'd lined the wall up perfectly, and then Flamini decides to move away as soon as he's about to strike the ball. If he'd have stood where he was, he would almost certainly have blocked it, and then the two open goal misses... why? :no:

I know the ball's cannoning off the post and it can take you by surprise, but what glorious chances to win the game. Bendtner, especially, had so much time.

Pats on the back to Gallas and Gilberto for two excellent blocks late on, as if we'd have lost that game, it'd have been almost as much of an injustice as the 2001 Cup Final.

Still, I wouldn't have been too disappointed with a point before the game, especially when I saw our formation and lack of Theo Walcott, and we played extremely well again, and had more cutting edge when Theo came on, I felt. Wasn't one of Ade's best games, but he gave it 100%, didn't stop running as usual, and put their defence under as much pressure as he could on the day. A few poor passes aswell, which if played correctly, could have led to goals, but I can accept one below par performance out of 8 or 9, and i'm sure he'd have performed better with Walcott alongside him.

Next week's game against Man Utd could be something else if both teams play as well as they have been lately, but no doubt it'll turn out a boring 0-0 in the end ;)

[AgentZero]

How could I not agree. I'll have a sig similar to yours if I lose. If you lose:

Arsenal > Man Utd


That would have to be the new signature size and font.

Gollan, it's OK, this one is in the bag.
hmmmm..a little larger than i expected but....i agree..:smug:

[calculus]

I have a feeling Arsenal are absolutely gonna stuff Man U...1-0 :D

[Viperized]

1-0 isn't a stuffing.

[JoeyM]

^:mellow:

anyway, something interesting I found on A-M

Fabregas: 77 passes, 86% pass completion, 6 tackles, 5 tackles won.

Gerrard: 33 passes, 73% pass completion, 4 tackles, 1 tackle won.

[Wan]

So...

Fabregas >> Gerrard

[Zoolander]

If Manchester United beat Arsenal I will show my penis.

[JoeyM]

If Manchester United beat Arsenal I will show my penis.

is this going to be like last year where even if Man Yoo don't win we'll see it anyway?

[AgentZero]

well for those eager enough anyways, expected to be posted on the spammers, knowing his luck itll be the millionth

[Wan]

If Manchester United beat Arsenal I will show my penis.

Aren't you a girl? :erm:

[Zoolander]

is this going to be like last year where even if Man Yoo don't win we'll see it anyway?

Yes but it will be erect if we win & flaccid if we lose.

[AgentZero]

doubly erect if Pique scores

[Zoolander]

doubly erect if Pique scores

You always have to lower the tone don't you?! :smug:

[Wan]

Triply erect if Ronaldo scored. :smug:

[Jesus]

I assume you are talking about your penis Wan.

[Stella Artois]

Take this shit to your thread. Idiots.

[wrathchild_uk]

Fully erect if Dong scores..

[Wan]

Well if Dong does play.

[Cannon ball]

Yes but it will be erect if we win & flaccid if we lose.

Either way, we might have trouble seeing it.

[Wan]

Hmm, what kind of trouble you mean?

[Cannon ball]

Its a generalisation that man from around South East Asia and The Orient have small penises. Whether thats true or not, we will find out, hence the "might".

[Nifty1Pound50]

Still, I wouldn't have been too disappointed with a point before the game, especially when I saw our formation

I took a completely different view on this.

The fact that Liverpool set up with, what was effectively, three up-front and three in midfield meant that we would always be the dominant force in the middle of the park - especially considering we set up with five across the middle. I was wary as to whether it would work for Liverpool, as I felt that if it did they could've had us on the back foot and caused us real problems.

After the first ten minutes, having seen that Rafa Benitez was again being quite tactically naive and simply picking a generic attacking team to appease the fans without (it seemed) considering the ramifications of doing so against a team that play the way we do, I was fully expecting us to win the game.

It flowed as anyone with half a footballing brain would be able to predict - we dominated the middle of the park, with more time on the ball which was afforded to us by the fact that Liverpool's two wide forwards were not as involved in the game as they would have had to be to influence it's tempo.

The simple fact is that Wenger got his tactics spot on, countering Benitez's expertly, and we were unfortunate not to win the game - although this being said, we had some ropey moments at the back and could've been 2-0 down before we equalised.

[Stella Artois]

I took a completely different view on this.

The fact that Liverpool set up with, what was effectively, three up-front and three in midfield meant that we would always be the dominant force in the middle of the park - especially considering we set up with five across the middle. I was wary as to whether it would work for Liverpool, as I felt that if it did they could've had us on the back foot and caused us real problems.

After the first ten minutes, having seen that Rafa Benitez was again being quite tactically naive and simply picking a generic attacking team to appease the fans without (it seemed) considering the ramifications of doing so against a team that play the way we do, I was fully expecting us to win the game.

It flowed as anyone with half a footballing brain would be able to predict - we dominated the middle of the park, with more time on the ball which was afforded to us by the fact that Liverpool's two wide forwards were not as involved in the game as they would have had to be to influence it's tempo.

The simple fact is that Wenger got his tactics spot on, countering Benitez's expertly, and we were unfortunate not to win the game - although this being said, we had some ropey moments at the back and could've been 2-0 down before we equalised.

Superb post. Come back more often, Nifty.

I don't see what was wrong with Wenger's tactics at all. We bossed the game from start to finish, playing all the football and looking the more dangerous of the two.

The wankfest over Walcott and the fact many believe he should have started is what I find strange. A few good appearances off the bench and Slavia Prague aside, he hasn't looked like a player capable of tearing a team of Liverpool's ability to pieces.

[pistolpete]

^:mellow:

anyway, something interesting I found on A-M

Fabregas: 77 passes, 86% pass completion, 6 tackles, 5 tackles won.

Gerrard: 33 passes, 73% pass completion, 4 tackles, 1 tackle won.

That cant be right - i saw on motd2 they highlighted at least 3 Gerrard tackles!

Quite disappointed to only get a draw from the game seeing as how it went.

I thought every Arsenal player (maybe not Ade or Eboue) won his individual battle.

How many teams pin Liverpool in their own half and make them play on the break for 80 minutes - shows the maturity of the team.

Hopefully Bendtner will stop talking and start concerntrating on finishing now.

Huge performance from Gallas i thought - block of the season for me!

[Viperized]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_2834136,00.html

Good to see we are getting some recognition.

Now if only MoTD do the same... or shall I say Alan Hansen in particular.

Then again being underrated may be better, so we can prove them all wrong.

[Scarface]

I took a completely different view on this.

The fact that Liverpool set up with, what was effectively, three up-front and three in midfield meant that we would always be the dominant force in the middle of the park - especially considering we set up with five across the middle. I was wary as to whether it would work for Liverpool, as I felt that if it did they could've had us on the back foot and caused us real problems.

After the first ten minutes, having seen that Rafa Benitez was again being quite tactically naive and simply picking a generic attacking team to appease the fans without (it seemed) considering the ramifications of doing so against a team that play the way we do, I was fully expecting us to win the game.

It flowed as anyone with half a footballing brain would be able to predict - we dominated the middle of the park, with more time on the ball which was afforded to us by the fact that Liverpool's two wide forwards were not as involved in the game as they would have had to be to influence it's tempo.

The simple fact is that Wenger got his tactics spot on, countering Benitez's expertly, and we were unfortunate not to win the game - although this being said, we had some ropey moments at the back and could've been 2-0 down before we equalised.

You've highlighted yourself the reason I was concerned before kick-off. I was expecting Torres to be fully fit, and Kuyt and Voronin to be pushing up alongside him, pinning us back.

After 10 minutes, I also was confident we could turn it around and gain the 3 points, as we started the game very well, and our response to going a goal down was excellent.

I had hoped Walcott would start, however, not because he's suddenly become our saviour, but as I felt this game could have been tailor made for him, with him possibly exploiting Hyypia and Carragher's lack of pace, leading to more goalscoring opportunities and making more space for Fabregas, Rosicky and Hleb to move into.

I was expecting us to have a lot of possession in central areas with the way Wenger had set the team up. That wasn't ever my concern. I wasn't full of confidence that it would be enough for us to win the game.

[K.1.N.G.]

How could I not agree. I'll have a sig similar to yours if I lose. If you lose:

Arsenal > Man Utd


That would have to be the new signature size and font.

Gollan, it's OK, this one is in the bag.

So you're gonna put Arsenal > Man U in your sig if we lose eh?!:D

Surprised Gollan didnt spot that technicality - some liar (oops, sorry - lawyer:blush: ) you are!:D

Dont think LosG noticed tho, so you're sorted either way!


Well you were already complaining about Ade. It's tiresome. Every time we're a goal down or not winning you have a moan in some form or another.

You should keep away from the computer during games and just comment at the end. Really does make you look fickle.

He was making a valid point tho - Ade wasnt having the best of games imo.

Probably the only time I can remember other than the 2-2 in 2003 when Mark Halsey and Heskey robbed us, where i've been so disappointed with a draw from Anfield.

Some of our play was superb, and we could easily have won on another day, so it's difficult to be critical, by why did Flamini move out the wall, to leave a clear gap when Cesc was already occupying the area he was moving into? I can understand Almunia reacting furiously, as he'd lined the wall up perfectly, and then Flamini decides to move away as soon as he's about to strike the ball. If he'd have stood where he was, he would almost certainly have blocked it


Even before he struck it I had said the wall was pretty poor - left too much of a target. Wouldnt really fault Flamini for moving aas thats where they expected the ball to go apparently, but unfortunately for us it went right through where he had left.:no:



The wankfest over Walcott and the fact many believe he should have started is what I find strange. A few good appearances off the bench and Slavia Prague aside, he hasn't looked like a player capable of tearing a team of Liverpool's ability to pieces.


I think A.W. has it spot on - playing Theo on the flank to get him used to taking on defenders. I couldnt understand why people were clamouring for him to be started up front at Anfield, apart from teh fact that he would probably put Hyppia on his backside:cool: . Stick with things as they are, leave Theo get his game time on the wing for now and in a few seasons (or even sooner) he could be ready to step up to the plate and lead the attack down the middle!

[Stella Artois]

He was making a valid point tho - Ade wasnt having the best of games imo.

There's far more to his game than just goals. If after every miss people start to have a moan, then you're completely missing the point as to just what Ade brings to this team. Lest we forget he was missing RvP.

People also forget he's only 23 - he's not the 29 year old, experienced Henry. He'll get better, so give the poor guy a break!

[AgentZero]

So you're gonna put Arsenal > Man U in your sig if we lose eh?!:D

Surprised Gollan didnt spot that technicality - some liar (oops, sorry - lawyer:blush: ) you are!:D

Dont think LosG noticed tho, so you're sorted either way!




He was making a valid point tho - Ade wasnt having the best of games imo.




Even before he struck it I had said the wall was pretty poor - left too much of a target. Wouldnt really fault Flamini for moving aas thats where they expected the ball to go apparently, but unfortunately for us it went right through where he had left.:no:





I think A.W. has it spot on - playing Theo on the flank to get him used to taking on defenders. I couldnt understand why people were clamouring for him to be started up front at Anfield, apart from teh fact that he would probably put Hyppia on his backside:cool: . Stick with things as they are, leave Theo get his game time on the wing for now and in a few seasons (or even sooner) he could be ready to step up to the plate and lead the attack down the middle!

for the record then
Stella Wins : Arsenal>Manchester United -in my sig big and red
LostG wins: Manchester United > Arsenal - in stellas sig
Draw: everything remains the same

[JoeyM]

There's far more to his game than just goals. If after every miss people start to have a moan, then you're completely missing the point as to just what Ade brings to this team. Lest we forget he was missing RvP.

People also forget he's only 23 - he's not the 29 year old, experienced Henry. He'll get better, so give the poor guy a break!

I've always thought Ade was a quality player, regardless of the poor finishing and have always supported his inclusion in the side, but he was just shite yesterday. Nothing to do him missing chances or people missing the point, he was just had a shite game. His link up play was unusually poor and he was ineffective off the ball for pretty much all the match except for his brilliant dummy run for Fab's goal.

[Stella Artois]

I've always thought Ade was a quality player, regardless of the poor finishing and have always supported his inclusion in the side, but he was just shite yesterday. Nothing to do him missing chances or people missing the point, he was just had a shite game. His link up play was unusually poor and he was ineffective off the ball for pretty much all the match except for his brilliant dummy run for Fab's goal.

I wasn't referring to you however, as you don't jump on the bandwagon and moan anytime something goes wrong.

Great article from the legend Bob Wilson on Cesc:

When I arrived at Arsenal 44 years ago, George Male and Bernard Joy, those great characters from a bygone age, would sit around and tell stories of the great sides and the great players of the past. One of their favourites was Alex James, the legendary Scottish forward from Herbert Chapman's day. "You'll never see a better little midfield player in your lifetime," they used to say. Well, I have, and his name is Cesc Fabregas.

I watched Arsenal's draw with Liverpool on Sunday on television in South Africa, where I'm on holiday. And even from this distance I could see how Cesc ran the game. I noticed at the final whistle that the cameras went straight to Steven Gerrard and Cesc, and there they were both moving towards each other: the handshake and the back-slap said an enormous amount. You could see the respect there was for each other. Cesc obviously admires Gerrard, and it became clear that the feeling was mutual.

The thing that impressed me most was the way Cesc continued to make things happen the longer the game went on; even if he was in a corner, he'd be demanding the ball from others. Even before the ball arrived at his feet he'd be looking where he was going to go, looking for the next pass, the next move.

I enjoyed the way Arsenal kept playing their football, getting that tightness back into their play, the pass and move, move and pass. And the conductor was Cesc Fabregas. You could see the disappointment when Eboue should have scored, but it didn't put Cesc off his stride and he continued to push the team on, and eventually he came up with the equaliser. It was an amazing ball from Alexander Hleb, and by taking it early Cesc caught Pepe Reina off balance.

It reminded me of what Arsene Wenger said three years ago when I was just finishing my time as goalkeeping coach with Arsenal. He told me: "I have seen the best 17-year-old player I've ever seen." Well, it was an extraordinary statement for Arsene to make. I remember saying: "But wasn't Pele the best 17-year-old?" "I am telling you about a player who plays in a different role to Pele; Pele was a striker, not a creator."

That young man was Cesc Fabregas, who had already arrived at Arsenal by then.

In those days Cesc lacked certain things – pace for one thing – but his short and long passing was exceptional. And the combativeness, that little bit of temper, that makes him like Patrick Vieira, was there from the start. He had an imagination, an appreciation of the game, that shocked everyone in such a young boy. What struck me was that he had a terrific humility about his ability: he was never boastful. There was enough in his game even then to make me compare him to the conductor in an orchestra.

Since then he has added what Arsene wanted him to do, and that's strength in the tackle and the ability to strike for goal. An all-round player was something we didn't really have at Arsenal before. But now we've got the midfield anchor, the player in the holding role, in Mathieu Flamini, who's in the mould of Claude Makelele of the present day or Norman Hunter, Nobby Stiles, or former Arsenal man Peter Storey, and that allows Cesc the freedom to go out and play.

I know he's on a long, long contract, but I hope he's never lured away by the likes of Barcelona or Real Madrid, back to his homeland. I know that when he was thinking about a captain to replace Thierry Henry, Arsene went through the names of Gilberto, Kolo Toure and William Gallas, who he eventually settled on. But Cesc was also in the frame, and he will remain in the frame for as long as both he and Arsene are at the club. He has such maturity.

When I look back at the great midfield players I've had the pleasure to watch and play with at Arsenal, I'd pick out George Eastham, Alan Ball – neither of whom we saw at their best at Highbury – Liam Brady, David Rocastle and Michael Thomas as a pair, and Emmanuel Petit and Patrick Vieira – who we did. Cesc continues the line through my five decades-long association with Arsenal.

Now I wouldn't call Dennis Bergkamp a midfield player, and like Cesc he could probably have done with an extra half-yard of pace. But there is a saying in football about the first yard being in the head, and that is what great players like Dennis and Cesc have.

To compile an identikit picture, I'd say Cesc has Dennis's brain, the combativeness and touch of Patrick Vieira, the marauding spirit of Rocastle and Thomas, and the magic wand of Liam Brady's left foot, only in his right boot. I can't praise him enough; he's up there with the best of them.

[Meyyappan]

I think we should trim our squad a bit keeping flamini,gilberto,fabregas,deni lson another dmf and using the rest in part exchange offers to secure wingers like nasri,modric and benzema would be a sweet buy

[gollan]

So you're gonna put Arsenal > Man U in your sig if we lose eh?!:D

Surprised Gollan didnt spot that technicality - some liar (oops, sorry - lawyer:blush: ) you are!:D

Dont think LosG noticed tho, so you're sorted either way!

Just in order not to leave an unlit corner: SIMILAR = having common qualities, comparable. This means that TECHNICALLY, Stella would have to put ManU>Arsenal if Arsenal lost and any other interpretation would be unreasonable.

I think the word you were thinking of was IDENTICAL.

In any way, even if Stella would have written IDENTICAL, contracts are interpreted according to the reasonable intention of the parties and by the principles of general bona fide. So even that wouldn't have helped Stella.

;)

I suggest you hold on to your day job.

[Dundon's]

If anyone doubts us after that performance they must be on drugs. Going to that place over the years was a nightmare. This time round was always going to be different, I felt that in my heart all week leading up to the game and expected us to totally pick them to pieces, which we did for the entire game.

Liverpool spent 90 minutes chasing shadows.

[K.1.N.G.]

I wasn't referring to you however, as you don't jump on the bandwagon and moan anytime something goes wrong.

Hope that wasnt aimed at me Stella - first time I've been critical of Ade on here afaik. Granted he does add a lot to the team, but the point that a lot of people made after sunday ws that he didnt really contribute like he usually does.

Just in order not to leave an unlit corner: SIMILAR = having common qualities, comparable. This means that TECHNICALLY, Stella would have to put ManU>Arsenal if Arsenal lost and any other interpretation would be unreasonable.

I think the word you were thinking of was IDENTICAL.

In any way, even if Stella would have written IDENTICAL, contracts are interpreted according to the reasonable intention of the parties and by the principles of general bona fide. So even that wouldn't have helped Stella.

;)

I suggest you hold on to your day job.


Gollan, I think we both can agree that the law is an ass. But please dont tell me that you are saying Arsenal > Man Utd is SIMILAR to Man Utd > Arsenal. Its down to the interpretation of the actual words used, and I dont plan on getting into a legal discussion with you on this, and I'm sure we both know the way a court of law can swing on matters like that!

I really really do not want to get into a discussion concerning contract law - but just have to ask: bona fide? C'mon, I'm sure you can think of many parties acting mal fide, intentionally, and relying on the joys of the law to uphold their unconscionable bargain!

One of my own personal favourites, seeing as my area of preference is criminal justice, being ex turpi causa.

[Viperized]

Hope that wasnt aimed at me Stella - first time I've been critical of Ade on here afaik. Granted he does add a lot to the team, but the point that a lot of people made after sunday ws that he didnt really contribute like he usually does.
Yeah I'm pretty sure he is talking about me.

There's far more to his game than just goals. If after every miss people start to have a moan, then you're completely missing the point as to just what Ade brings to this team. Lest we forget he was missing RvP.

People also forget he's only 23 - he's not the 29 year old, experienced Henry. He'll get better, so give the poor guy a break!
Obviously.

While I did say he had a poor game (thought there was nothing wrong that statement) it doesn't mean I said he offers absolutely nothing to the team. There is no doubt Ade is already a great player and has almost everything in his locker. He has had a great start to the season but I hope his form doesn't dip. He needs to keep up his consistency. But if any player has a bad game, I'll say he has had a bad game, just like if a player plays well, I'll say it. Exactly what is wrong in that? But clearly you think that means I'm simply moaning and jumping on the bandwagon.

[Stella Artois]

Because you're the same type of fan who after moaning for 45 minutes, would then go to the complete opposite end of the spectrum in declaring he's the best thing since sliced bread were he to score a hat-trick in the second half.

[Dundon's]

Anyone hear the squad for tomorrow night, will be interesting to see if Theo starts up front. Also if Toure and Gilberto play Center back.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

this was in yesterday's BBC gossip collumn. most of it is utter nonsense but i thought it would be very relevant to post this up:

Brazil captain Gilberto Silva may be on his way out of Arsenal after a Carling Cup snub. (Daily Mirror, Daily Star)

---------------------------------------------------------------------

So, maybe it won't be Toure and Gilberto in defence???

I would like to see Theo and Bendtner up front together tonight, Walcott being the SS and Bendtner being the targetman CF.

I'd also expect Diarra and Fabianski aswell as Armand Traore, Diaby etc.

[Dundon's]

The writing is on the wall for Gilberto to leave, however I don't believe he had a bust up according to the Arsenal website.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

From the site:

Arsène Wenger has announced his 16-man squad for tonight's Carling Cup fourth-round tie with Sheffield United:

2. Abou DIABY (Age 21)
8. Lassana DIARRA (Age 22)
9. EDUARDO (Age 24)
15. DENILSON (Age 19)
17. Alex SONG (Age 20)
19. GILBERTO (Age 31)
21. Lukasz FABIANSKI (GK) (Age 22)
26. Nicklas BENDTNER (Age 19)
31. Justin HOYTE (Age 22)
32. Theo WALCOTT (Age 18)
34. Kieran GIBBS (Age 18)
39. Henri LANSBURY (Age 17)
40. Vito MANNONE (GK) (Age 19)
41. Gavin HOYTE (Age 17)
42. Fran MERIDA (Age 17)
43. Nacer BARAZITE (Age 17)

Average age of squad: 20.2

[ Wednesday, October 31, 2007]

Most interesting addition is Henri Lansbury.

Is he good. what position does he play.

[Dundon's]

Never seen him play before, Kieran Gibbs should start of the left, last time he played for us he had a stormer. It'll be very interesting to see what Wenger has in mind with that bunch.

Can't wait.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

is it on t.v?

if so, i presume the kick-off will be around 7.45.

[Viperized]

Because you're the same type of fan who after moaning for 45 minutes, would then go to the complete opposite end of the spectrum in declaring he's the best thing since sliced bread were he to score a hat-trick in the second half.
Thats nice.

If only that was true.

[Stella Artois]

Oh, but it is. :)

The thing I'm most happy about is seeing Kolo getting a rest. The man played in every CC game last season, so I'm glad he's getting a break.

Fabianksi
Diarra Hoyte Song
Walcott Gilberto Denilson Gibbs
Eduardo Bendtner

Mannone
Merida
Barazite
G. Hoyte
Lansbury
Diaby

I intentionally haven't put a left-back in as I don't think we've got one? Possibly Gavin Hoyte could play as a centre-back with his brother going out to the left?

Personally I'd love to see a 3-5-2 with Diaby, Gilberto and Denilson in the middle. It'd really allow us to take the game to them and try and dominate it.

[Dundon's]

We could also try...

Fabianksi
Diarra Hoyte Gilberto G.Hoyte
Walcott Denilson Song Diaby
Eduardo Bendtner

He's got options but where's young Traore and Gilbert gone?

[Viperized]

Oh, but it is. :)
Go find a post proving that I've moaned about a player during half-time but then calling him the best thing since sliced bread after the match.

But I won't deny criticising a player's performance though.

[Stella Artois]

Just check your post history, it's full of it.

Traore is on duty for the French U19's and Gilbert is out on loan at Southend. Keep up.

[Dundon's]

Lads leave it out, big game tonight. We all like Arsenal, there's enough love to go around. :)

[Stella Artois]

Aye, some of us just can't help it that we supported the club pre-1998 I guess.

[Viperized]

Just check your post history, it's full of it.

Traore is on duty for the French U19's and Gilbert is out on loan at Southend. Keep up.
You made the claim, so you go find it.

[Viperized]

Apparently criticising a player's performance or not is the deciding factor whether you only supported the club during it's success period. :rolleyes:

[Dundon's]

Aye, some of us just can't help it that we supported the club pre-1998 I guess.


That reminds me, I found this picture I had taken at some football awards presentation years ago and I'm wearing that yellow Arsenal away shirt with the Vs, you know the one in the Limpar avatar?

Anyways I was temped to scan it onto the pc for the laugh, only thing is I'm sporting a mullet. :laugh:

[Stella Artois]

No need to double post.

You're the only so-called "fan" who consistently does it. Give it a rest.

That reminds me, I found this picture I had taken at some football awards presentation years ago and I'm wearing that yellow Arsenal away shirt with the Vs, you know the one in the Limpar avatar?

Anyways I was temped to scan it onto the pc for the laugh, only thing is I'm sporting a mullet. :laugh:

:laugh: :laugh:

You can't tell me that then not post it!

I loved that kit. Been desperately trying to find it on the old Internet. Single-handedly the ugliest shirt I've ever laid eyes on!

[Dundon's]

Ok if you leave Viper alone for the rest of the night we'll see.


JVC baby. :cool:

[Wan]

Isn't JVC a brand of TV?

[Stella Artois]

There's a company called JVC who make electrical goods. However there's also another company called JVC - Jimmy's Variety Cocks, which sponsored us for about 18 years I think.

[Dundon's]

This might sound silly but I never got used to any other sponsor the way I did with that one, it's probably because that's what was on the shirt when I first started supporting the team. I think the worst must of been the O2 but I did like the claret red shirt.

[Stella Artois]

The thing was, in the immediate aftermath of losing JVC, we went through about a billion different sponsors.

I personally hated the Sega and Dreamcast combination. Looked awful.

[Viperized]

I didn't like it when they changed the badge.

The cannon doesn't even point the right way.

[Viperized]

So we beat Sheffield United 3-0.

Eduardo was brilliant, as were Gilberto and Denilson. Edu scored a brilliant first goal. It was hit as quick as a bullet.

We must've had 80% possession in the game. Sheffield hardly threatened us.

[AgentZero]

cant beleive you lot manage to lose there last season

[Rossy Boy]

Only caught the last 20 mins of the game looked good, shall be watching the highlights later on. Who was the captain for the game? :unsure:

[Rambo]

Only caught the last 20 mins of the game looked good, shall be watching the highlights later on. Who was the captain for the game? :unsure:

Fabianski.

[Meyyappan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PodMXBbF850 (Dudu's thunderbolt,for those who had not seen it)

[Stella Artois]

cant beleive you lot manage to lose there last season

They made a lot of changes to the side that played at the weekend. They knew they'd lose so didn't bother putting out their best side.

[gollan]

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5260549510932570672&q=arsenal+sheffield+carling&total=6&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0

And this is the complete highlites. What a great move to break the offside trap for the 2nd goal.

The guy's got a football brain, I have to give him that. Makes it look very easy and effortless.

[AgentZero]

does anyone else notices how Van Persie spits before he takes a pen or free kick.

[Dundon's]

Our teams moral is on a mental one. They'll talk about this bunch of players for years and years to come if only for the football they play, but getting some honors for our efforts would really put the icing on the cake.


The average age and price of the players is ridiculous, It costs Utd 15m a pop on average for one of these wonderkids . :D

[Dragonfly]

This might sound silly but I never got used to any other sponsor the way I did with that one, it's probably because that's what was on the shirt when I first started supporting the team. I think the worst must of been the O2 but I did like the claret red shirt.

Same here. JVC seemed to be the Arsenal sponsor like Sharp was for Man Utd. I've been trying to find a reasonably priced Arsenal home kit from the 92/93....

http://www.classicfootballshirts.co.u k/images/Arsenal--92-Home-.jpg

It's one of my favourite shirts ever! I remember Norway had an almost identical shirt at the time. That's actually £40. I might go for it.

[Stella Artois]

I've got one of them in me room as we speak. :cool:

Luckily my mum buys things about ten sizes too big so I can always wear the old stuff. God bless you Mother.

[Dragonfly]

It is a sexy shirt. :wub:

[Dundon's]

Same here. JVC seemed to be the Arsenal sponsor like Sharp was for Man Utd. I've been trying to find a reasonably priced Arsenal home kit from the 92/93....

http://www.classicfootballshirts.co.u k/images/Arsenal--92-Home-.jpg

It's one of my favourite shirts ever! I remember Norway had an almost identical shirt at the time. That's actually £40. I might go for it.

I actually have it up stairs too. :happy:

My oldest and first shirt is the 1989 home one, the K.1.N.G had that classic away one of the same season. Getting your hands on a Gunners shirt around that time was near impossible in Ireland, I had to get mine when I was over in England around that period.

[Stella Artois]

1989, what a year that twas to be a Gooner - Michael Thomas!

I need more of the away shirts. I stopped buying them for a season or two when we went through the sponsor changes as we went through kits at a stupid rate.

[Sully]

I'm personally hoping for a draw this weekend. At the moment Chelsea can't really allow the gap between us and you and United to grow any more. This will be the first big test for your kids this year. Although Liverpool are a good side they are not as good as United and there form hasn't been too great either.

[Dundon's]

1989, what a year that twas to be a Gooner - Michael Thomas!

I need more of the away shirts. I stopped buying them for a season or two when we went through the sponsor changes as we went through kits at a stupid rate.

I've dropped a shit load of shirts down through the years, had that yellow adidas one with the stripes on the top and bottom corners, think Roadcastle was wearing it when he scored that great lob against utd.

I'd say I still have about 15-20 Arsenal shirts from down through the years and intend on keeping them all safe from now on.

[Dragonfly]

I think the worst Arsenal shirt I had was that blue lightning away shirt. It really was an abomination of a shirt, but I loved the lightning stripes at the time.

[Dundon's]

That wasn't a bad kit at the time and another one I lost in battle, didn't we have hooped socks going on too?


I think the gold sega one was the worst and to make things worst again I have that and the exact same shirt with O2 on it. While we're on the subject that red O2 shirt from a couple of seasons back had the worst shape to a jersey I think I ever seen in my life. It's like a tent.


http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/1428625.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF19390335F8FA9CA 92A6E8C3EBD3AFA9FF2C9930FDCFC4 C15FBB

[Wan]

Which season that was?

[RB14 ARSENAL]

03/04 wasn't it?

The Arsenal wore in their 49 unbeaten period, I'm definitely sure of that.

They also had the yellow and blue away kit. i kinda liked that kit :D

[Dundon's]

I wore that yellow O2 only yesterday, she's a bit bright but not the worst shirt ever either. I really like the tighter fitting shirts we got going on now.

Last night in that all white kit our side looked like angles. It's a great kit.

[Stella Artois]

Just a shame its not our colour.

Fucking Emirates.

[gollan]

I think that the white kit is awful. Looks like a romanian team ffs.
And I just can't stand that yellow/blue kit, yuck. Looks like fuckin maccabi tel aviv from Israel.

My one and only shirt is a signed Henry shirt from his last season. Got it from my father in law as a wedding present (he still claims I only married his daughter because of the season tickets at the emirates) :rolleyes: .

[Stella Artois]

Didn't know you'd got married - was it recent, as off the top of my head you weren't? Congratulations.

Why do you only have one shirt? Don't they sell them in Israel?

[Dundon's]

Just a shame its not our colour.

Fucking Emirates.

What can you do mate, that's our kit and we are using it now. As far as I see it Claret red and white are colors that can be associated with some of our clubs tradition.

My away colors of choice would be the exact same template as the home but with the base yellow and navy sleeves. The 1989 colors were Arsenal through and through.

[Stella Artois]

I agree that the colour white can be associated with the club - but only with the home kit.

I still personally believe we've got a white away kit due to the Emirates sponsoring us.

[Dundon's]

Sadly I know that might be true.

http://www.sportasylum.com/javaImages/5f/63/0,,10301~3040095,00.jpg

Them colors are bang on.

[Viperized]

The 1989 away shirt is beautiful. I'd love to get it but can't find it anywhere.

Not that I support the white kit but this isn't the only time we have worn it. Some 70 years ago we played in a white kit.

[K.1.N.G.]

From the site:

Arsène Wenger has announced his 16-man squad for tonight's Carling Cup fourth-round tie with Sheffield United:

2. Abou DIABY (Age 21)
8. Lassana DIARRA (Age 22)
9. EDUARDO (Age 24)
15. DENILSON (Age 19)
17. Alex SONG (Age 20)
19. GILBERTO (Age 31)
21. Lukasz FABIANSKI (GK) (Age 22)
26. Nicklas BENDTNER (Age 19)
31. Justin HOYTE (Age 22)
32. Theo WALCOTT (Age 18)
34. Kieran GIBBS (Age 18)
39. Henri LANSBURY (Age 17)
40. Vito MANNONE (GK) (Age 19)
41. Gavin HOYTE (Age 17)
42. Fran MERIDA (Age 17)
43. Nacer BARAZITE (Age 17)

Average age of squad: 20.2


I dunno - looks like Eduardo n Diarra are pushing on a bit, only a few seasons left in em:w00t


That reminds me, I found this picture I had taken at some football awards presentation years ago and I'm wearing that yellow Arsenal away shirt with the Vs, you know the one in the Limpar avatar?

Anyways I was temped to scan it onto the pc for the laugh, only thing is I'm sporting a mullet. :laugh:

Pike U-14s J?! I know that pic, and lads he aint messing bout the mullet!:no:

I actually have it up stairs too. :happy:

My oldest and first shirt is the 1989 home one, the K.1.N.G had that classic away one of the same season. Getting your hands on a Gunners shirt around that time was near impossible in Ireland, I had to get mine when I was over in England around that period.

That brought the memories flooding back!

[AgentZero]

My personal favourite of the arsenal away kit is the original umbro JVC...i dont know what season it was but a friend of mine has it and it looks swish.
http://www.classicfootballshirts.co.u k/premiership-clubs-arsenal-c-21_32.html?page=2&sort=1a

[Dundon's]

Can't ever remember us wearing umbro dude to be honest. Adidas and then Nike as far as I know.

[AgentZero]

think it was late 70's early 80's......it was a sexy old kit.

[Viperized]

http://www.historicalkits.co.uk/Arsenal/images/arsenal-1978-1981_ef.gif

[mufcsean]

How come Fabianski was captain last night not Gilberto?

[Rossy Boy]

Wenger said because him and Gilberto had a talk bout him not becoming the captain for the first team that it was better for him not to have the captains armband... i think thats what he said or something along those lines

[Nturtle]

"Better not to give it to him and take it back" - that's the logic!!!

[mufcsean]

Ah right, makes sense i suppose

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Predictions for the game on Saturday lads???

The big one.... we take on the defending champions at the emirates.

I think we will win 1-0 in a very physical and shaky encounter. Our midfielders will stop any possible attacks effectively and hit them on the break by threading lovely thru balls to the forwards. I think Fabregas/Eduardo will score the winner late on.

(Eduardo and Gilberto were very impressive in mid-week and Wenger may be very tempted to give these the nod instead of Walcott and Flamini). Other than that, it should be the same team that has started the season very well (apart from RVP, of course).

Feel free to post your predictions and views up lads.

[Wan]

1-1.
And then Chelsea will crush Derby 12-0.

[Joel]

1-1.
And then Chelsea will crush Derby 12-0.

Too bad Chelsea aren't playing Derby tomorrow, Wan...

[Stella Artois]

Honestly, can't someone gag and bound this idiot?

I doubt very much that Gilberto will play. I'd personally rather see Bendtner given a go. I love that lad, he causes so many problems for the opposition.

However, having said that Eduardo comes across as a really smart centre-forward, so perhaps with the ability of Hleb and Cesc to pick the eye of a needle pass, we should use his intelligence.

[ThierryHenry14]

its a tough game but hopefully another 1-0 with adebayor or fabregas on the score sheet mabye even 2-0 if eduardo scores another screamer like the one against sheffield united

[Dragonfly]

I'd be happier with Adebayor upfront for us tomorrow, because of the height united have in central defence. Although Eduardo can position himself cleverly, he hasn't really performed as well I thought he would in tougher games (than Sheffield Utd). I wouldn't be surprised if we played five in midfield tomorrow, but I'm sure United will use Hargreaves, maybe to keep an eye of Cesc.

Wenger says that Gilberto will be in the squad tomorrow in an interview on SSN, but didn't say if he'd start. It'll be harsh to drop Flamini, but I think Gilberto looked determined, or possibly even pissed off mid-week, so maybe that aggression would be ideal for such a tough game.

I think we'll dominate and win by one goal.

[calculus]

same team that started against liverpool for me and hleb fab and ad to combine for the first goal and someone else to score the 2nd and then rooney to score to bring united back into the game but we see it out i'm so looking forward to this game!

[Viperized]

I'd be happier with Adebayor upfront for us tomorrow, because of the height united have in central defence. Although Eduardo can position himself cleverly, he hasn't really performed as well I thought he would in tougher games (than Sheffield Utd). I wouldn't be surprised if we played five in midfield tomorrow, but I'm sure United will use Hargreaves, maybe to keep an eye of Cesc.

Wenger says that Gilberto will be in the squad tomorrow in an interview on SSN, but didn't say if he'd start. It'll be harsh to drop Flamini, but I think Gilberto looked determined, or possibly even pissed off mid-week, so maybe that aggression would be ideal for such a tough game.

I think we'll dominate and win by one goal.
He has hardly played this season. I can't remember him playing many games in the league. He has scored a few goals in the CL though.

I think Eduardo can compliment Adebayor very well. As you said his positioning is great but he is also a fantastic finisher. We'll can't afford to waste chances against Man United. I would like him to start.

Wouldn't mind seeing this side:
Almunia
Sagna Toure Gallas Clichy
Hleb Cesc Flamini Rosicky
Adebayor Eduardo

I would've liked Gilberto to start because he is really the only proper defensive midfielder in the squad, and would be useful for a tight game like this due to his positioning and tackling. Can't imagine Flamini being dropped though and is far more likely to start.

I think the key players tomorrow could be Hleb, Cesc and Ade.

[Wan]

Wenger was keen on Tevez

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed he was interested in Carlos Tevez until Manchester United made their move for the striker.

The Argentina international joined The Red Devils last summer following a hugely successful second half of the season with West Ham.

Although Wenger was keen on bringing Tevez's quality to the Emirates, he opted against pursuing a deal once United's intent was confirmed.

With the likes of Robin van Persie and Emmanuel Adebayor set to start the season following Thierry Henry's exit, Wenger wanted to give the duo a confidence boost and the chance to impress.

"When I saw Manchester United on the case, I thought no," explained Wenger. "If they had not been on the case, yes.

"I would have analysed it and looked at how would it go. But it looked as if they were on the case early.

"However, I knew I had (Robin) Van Persie and Adebayor to play at the start. I wanted to give them confidence.

"Then I had (Nicklas) Bendtner behind and I wanted to give him confidence. [In the end] I looked for a player like Eduardo, who can play left wing, right or central."

Investigate

Meanwhile, Wenger wants to investigate whether there was a chance Adebayor could have left Arsenal last season for The Red Devils.

The French boss has confirmed no approach from Old Trafford was ever made for the 23-year-old Togo striker, who only extended his contract with the club back in May.

"I would first like to check that it's true," he continued.

"If it's not Adebayor, I think it's his agent. He had a contract at that time as well, anyway, and I have never been approached by Manchester United.

"He has extended his contract here since then."

[pistolpete]

guys, ive just landed in kenya, theyve got no sky tv here, ive got radio 5 live but does anyone know a link to a stream so i can watch the game?

would be much appreciated.

[Viperized]

Yep. Link is here:
http://4.livefooty.doctor-serv.com/sat3.11/Arsenal_ManU.html

It only works in Internet Explorer though. If the above link doesn't work then just try accessing it from the main page:
http://livefooty.doctor-serv.com/

[Viperized]

A late... late...late reaction by Almunia. Gallas could've done better, but I was shocked at how late Almunia reacted to that. 1-0 to Man Utd.

I think we should make some chances at half-time like bringing on Eduardo for Eboue, who hasn't had much of an influence in the game.

[Zoolander]

Smash & grab. :smug:

[Cannon ball]

Smash & grab. :smug:

http://www.sillyjokes.co.uk/images/p-jokes/food/jammy-dodger-big.jpg

[Top Gun]

I don't think Almunia can be blamed, it was going across goal until it hit Gallas and went in at the near post.

[Zoolander]

Fuck the what happened there?

[ThierryHenry14]

Yep. Link is here:
http://4.livefooty.doctor-serv.com/sat3.11/Arsenal_ManU.html

It only works in Internet Explorer though. If the above link doesn't work then just try accessing it from the main page:
http://livefooty.doctor-serv.com/

i download the sopcast thing and install it but it still says that i havent installed it

[pistolpete]

I get the same msg,

got crappy talksport radio updates - 5live stopped when the game started,


Get in, cesc you legend!

[ThierryHenry14]

has he scored

[pistolpete]

yep, 1-1 cesc according to talksport, they are also saying og gallas for manures goal

[Joel]

i download the sopcast thing and install it but it still says that i havent installed it

Did you run the Active X control?

has he scored

Yes he did. 1-1.

[ThierryHenry14]

whats active x

look at this
Possession: Arsenal 60.6% Manchester United 39.4% from yahoo matchcast

[Joel]

After you installed it, they should be a pop up tab at the top, which should allow you to run Active X.

[ThierryHenry14]

i dont get that for some reason this what i get
http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/289/screenju9.th.png (http://img527.imageshack.us/my.php?image=screenju9.png)

[Joel]

i dont get that for some reason this what i get
http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/289/screenju9.th.png (http://img527.imageshack.us/my.php?image=screenju9.png)

Yep. Link is here:
http://4.livefooty.doctor-serv.com/sat3.11/Arsenal_ManU.html

It only works in Internet Explorer though. If the above link doesn't work then just try accessing it from the main page:
http://livefooty.doctor-serv.com/

.

[Sully]

Use IE

[ThierryHenry14]

arghhh ok thanks i should of read it more clearly i thought the other link was for IE only

[pistolpete]

or lower the security on your tools tab, ive got it now!

[ThierryHenry14]

same this is great free games without sky

[wrigh2uk]

fuck

[ThierryHenry14]

almunia should of stayed more in the center of the goal and atleast one of the defenders should of been marking ronaldo there were 2 man u players free in the middle

[Wan]

Unlcuky. Very unlcuky.

[ThierryHenry14]

yes yes yes yes gallas come on son

[Zoolander]

Jammy fuckers.

[pistolpete]

thank you william!

[wrigh2uk]

All hail lord Gallas

*hails*

[JoeyM]

Almunia GTFO

[Wan]

2-2 the scoreline.

[Joel]

Jammy fuckers.

I know!

By the way, what a great first goal by United :erm:

[Guillermo]

I know!

By the way, what a great first goal by Gallas :erm:

Better :erm:

[pistolpete]

Almunia GTFO



deja vu, Manuel comes rushing out where he wasnt needed, the ball is squared to Ronaldo who puts them ahead on our ground - spooky.

Good composure from Gallas, could have had 2, seems to get into goalscoring positons, should really score more.

[Zoolander]

I know!

By the way, what a great first goal by United :erm:

We weren't even in 3rd gear.

[Barry]

Admittedly that pass by Saha was one I'll remember, fantastic.

[wrigh2uk]

I know!

By the way, what a great first goal by United :erm:

Comming from the team who beat us by a freakisy miscontrolled Drogba goal and a once and life time Essien bullet

[Wan]

I agreed.
An equaliser always better.

[Viperized]

Jammy fuckers.
:erm:

[Viperized]

Almunia GTFO
Fuck knows what Almunia was doing when Man Utd scored their second.

[Scarface]

Fuck knows what Almunia was doing when Man Utd scored their second.

Fuck knows what he was doing all game. He made more than a few mistakes and errors in judgment. Hopefully we'll bring in a new goalkeeper to replace Jens in the January transfer window, but I wouldn't bank on it.

Not a bad result overall, it would have been an injustice to lose to them. Cristiano Ronaldo has been bailed out by Faulty Manuel again for a woeful performance. Brilliant play by Clichy for the leveller, and he was quite dominant on his flank.

[ThierryHenry14]

great game i agree with you scarface about almunia a few too many mistakes but equal good saves good to see fabregas on the score sheet again

[Scarface]

great game i agree with you scarface about almunia a few too many mistakes but equal good saves good to see fabregas on the score sheet again

Did he make any? He made a couple of quality saves against Liverpool, but it's never really been his shot-stopping that's in question. I wouldn't mind us keeping him as a backup keeper, but he's not good enough to be a #1 for a team with the desire to win in all competitions.

[Stella Artois]

Fuck knows what he was doing all game. He made more than a few mistakes and errors in judgment. Hopefully we'll bring in a new goalkeeper to replace Jens in the January transfer window, but I wouldn't bank on it.

Not a bad result overall, it would have been an injustice to lose to them. Cristiano Ronaldo has been bailed out by Faulty Manuel again for a woeful performance. Brilliant play by Clichy for the leveller, and he was quite dominant on his flank.

Couldn't agree more with you there. All the Ronaldo fanboys will be going, "he scored, he prove he can do it at the top level!". He was fucking shit and was taught a lesson by Clichy - and not for the first time.

Thank God we didn't lose, it would have been a complete injustice; we absolutely dominated about from about a 3 minute spell in the second half. Less said about the first half the better - for both teams.

[ThierryHenry14]

i dont know i just said it to fit the start of the sentance lol i only watched the game from about 65 mins to full time

[Joel]

Comming from the team who beat us by a freakisy miscontrolled Drogba goal and a once and life time Essien bullet

I was just trying to point out the irony of him saying that your goal was sloppy, after the first goal Man United (well Gallas) scored.

Next time I'll use the irony smiley to show that.

[AgentZero]

i really thought we had it, finally.
Both goalkeepers werent at their best.

[Stella Artois]

I like your signature. :)

[AgentZero]

it stays unchaged right?

[Stella Artois]

Indeed it does.

You better hope you play us in the third round of the FA Cup as it'll be a while before it changes. ;)

[AgentZero]

yeh, so how far were preparing your sig when Gallas saved your bacon

[Dundon's]

Happy all round, met the ultimate test and passed it with flying colors. When Utd come out of that defense to try and play us at old trafford it will be the death of them.

We have a good run of it now and then it's just Chel$ki around the Christmas. Looking forward to the next game, each one it a footballing master class in itself. :cool:

[AgentZero]

got to say, i thought i was celebrating us clearing that stupid ball and nto Gallas' goal. felt like a right numpty

[Dundon's]

It must of been straight in the heart when you seen the goal given but I'm happy for your people, after all the years you've been doing it to everyone else it's nice to put another one up there next to Henrys late winner last season. :blush:

[AgentZero]

it would of been daylight robbery if we did to you lot. I was furious because walcotts shot was no where near the goal line but when they gave it to Gallas and edwin was a good metre back from the line, it was understandable.

[Dundon's]

Yep.

But trust me, the pain you were experiencing at the end was 100 times worst for us when Ronaldo looked like he stole it for you late on.

[AgentZero]

the man they call manuel faulty did it again remember Highbury 2/3 seasons ago...chasing giggs out wide...ronaldo tap in?

[Dundon's]

Aye, he's the weak link the the Arsenal machine for sure, pinning all my hopes on the Fabianski kid at this stage to be honest.

[mufcsean]

I'm surprised Wenger hasn't played him more with Lehmann being out of favour

[Stella Artois]

yeh, so how far were preparing your sig when Gallas saved your bacon

In my mind I had the words:

"I'm a man of my word, so here goes..."

God bless you Gallas.

[Dundon's]

That goal and performance really helps Gallas's case for captaincy, he won the hearts of a lot of gunners fans today including mine.

If only he wasn't wearing number 10 now I'd be totally satisfied with the return we're getting on him since he joined but we'll let that slide just for today. :happy:

[TonyWong]

Arsenal got lucky the cunts. The gallas ''goal'' was clearly over the bar. Ref was blind. French fancies.

[Dundon's]

Arsenal got lucky the cunts. The gallas ''goal'' was clearly over the bar. Ref was blind. French fancies.

Was it or was it not over the bar, that question shall run on for years.

[AgentZero]

That goal and performance really helps Gallas's case for captaincy, he won the hearts of a lot of gunners fans today including mine.

If only he wasn't wearing number 10 now I'd be totally satisfied with the return we're getting on him since he joined but we'll let that slide just for today. :happy:

scored two goals.:ninja: great captain. hero to Zero and Zero to Hero

[Dundon's]

Nah it's nothing to do with that, I was just impressed with his after match comments. Any reason I had not to like the man was brought on himself in the summer when he was shooting his mouth.

I wouldn't be alone in saying I was surprised and disappointed at the time.

[AgentZero]

there was soccer amesque cross bar challenge but it was for french tv and you could tell all the kids listened to Willie.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2_oPlAOL4Y

[Dundon's]

The the lads look like some bunch of messers. :D

[AgentZero]

i fail to see the connection between Flamini and Gattuso

[Dundon's]

Flamini is a warrior and a winner, you can see that in his game.