Arsenal

[gollan]

Good game by us winning, with a lot of grit and a lot of heart.
To me, there is no question - Arsenal are the better team.

BUT - and it's a big one, Arsene lost to Fergie tactically speaking.

ManU knew all the time what they were doing, while we didn't.

Playing 4-5-1, against a team with a great defense that can score with ease on the break, is not understandable. It looked to me like Sagna and Clichy, who both had a very good game and are usually very good defenders, were not adequately briefed regarding ManU's wing players cutting into the middle, as both goals came after united wing players made an inward movement. Both times our fullbacks lost them (or the overlapping Evra for the 2nd goal).

Fergie was smart to leave Flamini on his own for a fair share of the time. I mean, I never liked Flamini up until this season, when he finally realized his limits and his destiny. He can't do anything creative, let's face it. Whenever the ball is at his feet for more than 1.5 seconds, I get panicky. Yes, he's turned into a great anchor midfield, destroying a lot of the opponents efforts - a-la Gattuso. But he cannot pass or do anything creative or inventive. So united closed down Cesc and kept Flamini free. We had no answer to that.
The Eboue thing is also quite beyond me, the guy just isn't smart enough and doesn't make the right decisions. Yes, he's fast and can cross fairly accurately - but why not use Eduardo and Ade together in a game like that? To leave Ade all on his own against Ferdinand and Vidic... give me a break.

Another point to notice - the ultimate grudge match had turned into a Milaneze darby. So much respect, patting on the backs, handshakes...

Who would have thought.

[Dundon's]

Some good points and a solid argument there Gollan, however over the 90 minutes I was happy with our game plan and tactics and felt with a bit of luck we could of nicked it at one stage. We dominated the possession.

Flamini isn't all that bad either mate, the kid is doing a dirty job and is limited in certain attributes but lets face it he's covering the ground of 10 men a game I'd say.

[gollan]

Some good points and a solid argument there Gollan, however over the 90 minutes I was happy with our game plan and tactics and felt with a bit of luck we could of nicked it at one stage. We dominated the possession.

Flamini isn't all that bad either mate, the kid is doing a dirty job and is limited in certain attributes but lets face it he's covering the ground of 10 men a game I'd say.

Ok - so it's a matter of perspective, maybe I'm too critical (common for a Virgo) but we seem to agree on the points themselves.

I'm very happy we are cruising into a series of lighter challenges, we'll get RVP soon, hopefully Eduardo will get some more playing time and everything will be AOK.

BTW - do you reckon we should preserve our team for the away match in Prague, sending the Carling boys?

[Dundon's]

I wouldn't to be honest but I would maybe go for half and half. Denilson, Eduardo, Theo, Diaby, Gilberto, Fabianski would be all players I'd consider starting.

How do you reckon we'll get on when Toure takes flight?

It's gonna be a blow.

[gollan]

Forgot about that...goddamnit. No offense, really, but it's a fuckin joke. There is no fuckin reason to hold that clownish cup every two years. If you can have a WC and a European Cup every four, why do they need to have that stupid cup every two?! The other thing is the timing! What the hell.... in the middle of the season, you suddenly have to forget about some very important players.

It's gonna be a big, big blow and my guess is we'll see a lot of Gilberto as a CB. I wish Arsene would use the transfer window to bring in a new defender, but I don't think it's going to happen.

EDIT: At least Chelski are going to be without Drogba.

[Keyser Soze]

Forgot about that...goddamnit. No offense, really, but it's a fuckin joke. There is no fuckin reason to hold that clownish cup every two years. If you can have a WC and a European Cup every four, why do they need to have that stupid cup every two?! The other thing is the timing! What the hell.... in the middle of the season, you suddenly have to forget about some very important players.

Are you serious? You do know they can't play in the "European cup"... so they shouldn't have a cup because it interferes with the English game? That has to be one of the most ignorant comments I've ever seen on this site. :laugh:

[Dragonfly]

Are you serious? You do know they can't play in the "European cup"... so they shouldn't have a cup because it interferes with the English game? That has to be one of the most ignorant comments I've ever seen on this site. :laugh:

I think one of the points he was making was that they should possibly also have four years between each African Nations Cup, like the World Cup and European Cup. As for the cup games not interfering with the Premier League, I don't think that's a viable option, I think mainly because of the African leagues' timetables, or maybe even the extreme temperatures.

[Stella Artois]

Yet again the G makes another stupid comment.

It should be every 4 years, and given that we pay our players fantastic wages, why the hell shouldn't it be during the summer?

African National sides benefit from playing in Europe, the least they could do is work with us.

[Viperized]

Good game by us winning, with a lot of grit and a lot of heart.
To me, there is no question - Arsenal are the better team.

BUT - and it's a big one, Arsene lost to Fergie tactically speaking.

ManU knew all the time what they were doing, while we didn't.

Playing 4-5-1, against a team with a great defense that can score with ease on the break, is not understandable. It looked to me like Sagna and Clichy, who both had a very good game and are usually very good defenders, were not adequately briefed regarding ManU's wing players cutting into the middle, as both goals came after united wing players made an inward movement. Both times our fullbacks lost them (or the overlapping Evra for the 2nd goal).

Fergie was smart to leave Flamini on his own for a fair share of the time. I mean, I never liked Flamini up until this season, when he finally realized his limits and his destiny. He can't do anything creative, let's face it. Whenever the ball is at his feet for more than 1.5 seconds, I get panicky. Yes, he's turned into a great anchor midfield, destroying a lot of the opponents efforts - a-la Gattuso. But he cannot pass or do anything creative or inventive. So united closed down Cesc and kept Flamini free. We had no answer to that.
The Eboue thing is also quite beyond me, the guy just isn't smart enough and doesn't make the right decisions. Yes, he's fast and can cross fairly accurately - but why not use Eduardo and Ade together in a game like that? To leave Ade all on his own against Ferdinand and Vidic... give me a break.

Another point to notice - the ultimate grudge match had turned into a Milaneze darby. So much respect, patting on the backs, handshakes...

Who would have thought.
Wenger admitted playing 451 was a mistake as it left Adebayor isolated.

There would be no harm in starting Eduardo upfront in the place of Eboue next time.

[Stella Artois]

Eboue was far, far better than Rosicky in that game.

I hate the way people let his previous antics cloud their judgment.

[gollan]

Are you serious? You do know they can't play in the "European cup"... so they shouldn't have a cup because it interferes with the English game? That has to be one of the most ignorant comments I've ever seen on this site. :laugh:

Actually that would have to be SuperMario being happy about people dying in the London bombings or something, for which he was banned for life.

Back on topic - they can have their own cup, but if FIFA compels clubs to release players to national duties, and a lot of those players play in Europe (and not just the EPL, Mr. narrow sight :rolleyes: )
it is only natural to expect that FIFA should make sure there is the least amount of interference, i.e. - the cup to be held every four years and that it should be played during the summer.

[Viperized]

Eboue was far, far better than Rosicky in that game.

I hate the way people let his previous antics cloud their judgment.
But I couldn't care less about his antics (he should try cutting it out though). I just think Eboue is usually poorer on the wings compared to his performances at RB.

But it doesn't seem like he will displace Sagna at RB who has been playing well. But he does offer more in attack though defensively is poorer.

He would be a good option from the subs bench but I would rather see our main choice midfield plus two strikers.

[Stella Artois]

Fact is though, it's been a long while since Rosicky has done anything of note and I'd rather Eboue played than him right at this minute.

[Viperized]

Thats true but it doesn't help when you get injured as you just hit form.

[Stella Artois]

He's constantly injured though. It's getting pretty tiresome. He has hamstrings made of straw.

[Dundon's]

Eboue isn't a patch on Rosicky and we all know it, but like Stella said at the minute he's not having the best of times with injuries, the man can't seem to string a run in the side without limping off at some period.

In the long term Rosicky is built to play our team, his silky touches and ball carrying really complements Hleb and Fab. I think they are the main boys adding the class to our play.

[Bammers05]

Forgot about that...goddamnit. No offense, really, but it's a fuckin joke. There is no fuckin reason to hold that clownish cup every two years. If you can have a WC and a European Cup every four, why do they need to have that stupid cup every two?! The other thing is the timing! What the hell.... in the middle of the season, you suddenly have to forget about some very important players.

It's gonna be a big, big blow and my guess is we'll see a lot of Gilberto as a CB. I wish Arsene would use the transfer window to bring in a new defender, but I don't think it's going to happen.

EDIT: At least Chelski are going to be without Drogba.

And Essien :smug:

[Stella Artois]

Eboue isn't a patch on Rosicky and we all know it, but like Stella said at the minute he's not having the best of times with injuries, the man can't seem to string a run in the side without limping off at some period.

In the long term Rosicky is built to play our team, his silky touches and ball carrying really complements Hleb and Fab. I think they are the main boys adding the class to our play.

Fact is you play the players who are performing. In this case, Rosicky wouldn't be in my team.

[Top Gun]

And Essien :smug:

And Mikel and Kalou.

[Dundon's]

Dude comparing Eboue to Rosicky isn't the ideal match up, given that Eboue can do serious damage when he goes on the outside, his passing game lets him down an awful lot and he takes mental chances sometimes. Outside of the defense he is the one most likely to give away the ball more often than anyone else.

I'm not saying Rosicky is in great form, I'm just saying he's not playing that bad either and he's always involved in most of the better passing moves.

It's all a matter of opinion though.

[Meyyappan]

Have you guys heard about the rosicky injury?

[Meyyappan]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_2803768,00.html

[Viperized]

Old article.

[ThierryHenry14]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_2863312,00.html
do you think there will be a threat?
i think it would only be a threat considering what the starting 11 is

[Viperized]

Arsenal's Man Utd clash drew bigger audience than World Cup final
November 04, 2007

Yesterday's clash between Arsenal and Manchester United was watched by more people than last year's World Cup final between France and Italy.

The Times says the battle of the Emirates was watched by an estimated one billion people, the highest ever TV audience for a Premier League game. A spokesman for the Premier League confirmed that the match was available in 600 million households in 202 countries. As Sir Alex Ferguson said after the 2-2 draw: "No one will be asking for their money back".

If those figures prove correct, more viewers tuned in to watch the Gunners v the Red Devils than switched on for the 2006 World Cup final, which reportedly drew 715.1 million viewers across 214 countries.
Pretty amazing, if true.

[AgentZero]

yeh, usually there is a small following in the common room of the dorm. But it was packed and too many face value arsenal fans, who didnt even know who walcott was when he got hugged by cesc

[Nturtle]

LOL!! Well...I'm sure it'll be a fun party time when we go to Old Trafford!

Slavia up next...I guess we'll see a rotated team to keep everyone fresh!

[gollan]

Dude comparing Eboue to Rosicky isn't the ideal match up, given that Eboue can do serious damage when he goes on the outside, his passing game lets him down an awful lot and he takes mental chances sometimes. Outside of the defense he is the one most likely to give away the ball more often than anyone else.

I'm not saying Rosicky is in great form, I'm just saying he's not playing that bad either and he's always involved in most of the better passing moves.

It's all a matter of opinion though.

I agree with Dundon's on that one. Eboue, antics or no antics, is a very limited player. He is not creative and has a very limited football brain. He can run fast and can cross pretty well. Rosicky is an amazing player, we have seen him doing amazing stuff and I truly believe he is going to be great for us. Just look at Hleb.

When Hleb joined from the Bundesliga, he used to play behind the striker. Like Rosicky. He was not used to play on the wings and it took him an awful long time to get adjusted to Arsene's system. Rosicky, at the moment, is still getting adjusted. It's a long way from playing as the center point of a team, being the absolute playmaker and playing dead in the center - going from there to be a side midfielder... it's a process.

I trust Wenger that Rosicky will emerge as an amazing player. Not playing him will not let him evolve. Remember - and guys, be honest with yourselves as it can be checked - last season, so many people saying bad things about Hleb, that he shouldn't be played, etc. And it all paid off. So have some patience!!!

Eboue will never be half the player Rosa is. Period. And I can't for my life understand why he should play and not Eduardo up front.

[Meyyappan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iti31I0qI9s(vela's goal)

[gollan]

:thewave:

Got tickets to the Bucarest match on December 12th and the Chelsea match on December 16th.

Guess all I need to find now is a flight.

[Stella Artois]

I agree with Dundon's on that one. Eboue, antics or no antics, is a very limited player. He is not creative and has a very limited football brain. He can run fast and can cross pretty well. Rosicky is an amazing player, we have seen him doing amazing stuff and I truly believe he is going to be great for us. Just look at Hleb.

When Hleb joined from the Bundesliga, he used to play behind the striker. Like Rosicky. He was not used to play on the wings and it took him an awful long time to get adjusted to Arsene's system. Rosicky, at the moment, is still getting adjusted. It's a long way from playing as the center point of a team, being the absolute playmaker and playing dead in the center - going from there to be a side midfielder... it's a process.

I trust Wenger that Rosicky will emerge as an amazing player. Not playing him will not let him evolve. Remember - and guys, be honest with yourselves as it can be checked - last season, so many people saying bad things about Hleb, that he shouldn't be played, etc. And it all paid off. So have some patience!!!

Eboue will never be half the player Rosa is. Period. And I can't for my life understand why he should play and not Eduardo up front.

What Eboue gives us that Rosicky never will, is a bit of directness. He genuinely plays as an old-fashioned winger and looks to beat his man and deliver the cross, whereas Rosicky constantly looks to cut in.

I love Rosicky. I remember watching many a time for the Czech Republic and there's no doubting he's an incredibly talented football, but he's not been the player he can be. If I'm completely honest I've actually been very disappointed with his performances.

I don't disagree that he needs time to adjust, but he's just not doing the business right now, whereas I feel Eboue is more effective at this moment in time.

I'd take a fit and in-form Rosicky over Eboue every day, but it's been a while since he has been either.

[Zoolander]

Any requests for a poll in the Arsenal thread? eg. Best summer signing currently..

[RB14 ARSENAL]

well, yeah i suppose.

sagna is our best summer signing by a mile so far.

[Stella Artois]

I think we can all agree that Sagna has been the best signing of the summer. ;)

Perhaps...

Who is our greatest ever player? Options, Bergkamp, Henry, Vieria, Adams, Seaman, Fabregas (I know, I know, he's only 20).

I'll let any others add some if they wish.

[Jonny2J]

I think we can all agree that Sagna has been the best signing of the summer. ;)

Perhaps...

Who is our greatest ever player? Options, Bergkamp, Henry, Vieria, Adams, Seaman, Fabregas (I know, I know, he's only 20).

I'll let any others add some if they wish.Football did exist prior to The Premiership you know. :tongue:

Liam Brady FYI. ;)

O'Leary needs a mention as well.

[Zoolander]

I'm sure I've missed some out.

[Jonny2J]

If Seaman is there then Pat Jennings surely needs to be in as well.

[Wan]

You missed Fabregas ;)

[Stella Artois]

No-one will have watched them. I thought about including them, but they're hardly going to get a vote, are they? If we're going to go down that route you could add the likes of Cliff Bastin, Alex James, etc.

Can't believe I forgot Wrighty though.

Btw, any decent away fans pubs in Newcastle?

[Dundon's]

What Eboue gives us that Rosicky never will, is a bit of directness. He genuinely plays as an old-fashioned winger and looks to beat his man and deliver the cross, whereas Rosicky constantly looks to cut in.

I love Rosicky. I remember watching many a time for the Czech Republic and there's no doubting he's an incredibly talented football, but he's not been the player he can be. If I'm completely honest I've actually been very disappointed with his performances.

I don't disagree that he needs time to adjust, but he's just not doing the business right now, whereas I feel Eboue is more effective at this moment in time.

I'd take a fit and in-form Rosicky over Eboue every day, but it's been a while since he has been either.

That's fair enough.

[Jonny2J]

No-one will have watched them. I thought about including them, but they're hardly going to get a vote, are they? If we're going to go down that route you could add the likes of Cliff Bastin, Alex James, etc.

Can't believe I forgot Wrighty though.

Btw, any decent away fans pubs in Newcastle?Not that I'm aware of like, but obviously not something I've had to encounter.

Most away fans just normally go to the soulless Union Rooms or The Goose.

[Dundon's]

Bergkamp changed the face of the club, I'm going with the iceman.

[Wan]

I don't think I'll vote because I hardly watch the classics plays. (at the mean time)

[Zoolander]

I've gone with Bergkamp but the Arsenal defence in the late 80's were solid (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtELkPlKP-E).

[Dundon's]

When Bergkamp came over to us he was on a different level. What a player and a classic number 10.


"Walking in a Bergkamp wonderland". :cool:

[Jonny2J]

When Bergkamp came over to us he was on a different level. What a player and a classic number 10.


"Walking in a Bergkamp wonderland". :cool:Not what everyone was saying until he scored against Southampton iirc.

Still the best for me though, absolute genius of a player.

[Stella Artois]

I can't believe we ever attracted him to the club in the first place.

[Dundon's]

@John:Stop mate, after seeing the likes of Chris Kiwomya and John Hartson togging out for the Arsenal believe me I loved Bergkamp the minute he came through the gates to the minute he walked out.


I think the whole Donkey thing at Inter must of left left him desperate. :D

[K.1.N.G.]

Tbh, I dont think Brady is going to get the respect he deserves in this poll!!!

[mufcsean]

Bergkamp for me, the man was an absolute magician and a dream to watch

[Viperized]

My vote goes to Bergkamp. His contribution to this club was immense. He had all the qualities you would wish to see in a footballer. I'd go as far as saying he was the best player the Premiership has seen so far.
Tbh, I dont think Brady is going to get the respect he deserves in this poll!!!
I'm pretty sure 99% of all people on this forum have not seen Brady play week in, week out, seeing as he played for Arsenal during the 70s...

[Viperized]

In which channel will the Arsenal game be shown?

[Scarface]

Sky Sports Xtra via the red button I think, which means I can't watch it, as Virgin Media don't provide that feature :erm:

[Viperized]

At least it isn't on ITV4. It makes me sick - the picture quality is so crap.

[AgentZero]

non flying dutchman had a mutual respect and admiration for him

[Joel]

Sky Sports Xtra via the red button I think, which means I can't watch it, as Virgin Media don't provide that feature :erm:

Arsenal and Chelsea always get the shit treatment :laugh:

I'm not sure if Virgin Media has Sky One, but the Arsenal game will be on that channel too.

So you can access the match on Sky One or Sky Sports Xtra via the red button.

[Keyser Soze]

Highlights on ITV at 11:05 if you miss it completely.

[mufcsean]

Not tomorrow, thats football league

[gollan]

A close call between Dennis and Thierry, but I chose Thierry. I'm not saying who is/was a better footballer, it's just the complete personification of a club in a footballer that was the Arsenal-Henry relationship.

[Dundon's]

Like suspected Wenger is mixing it up tonight. Fab, Toure, Rosicky and Hleb aren't in the squad as far as I know.

I'd to see Eduardo play a few games, his fitness must be nearly upto speed now and with the Perse out and all he could use the opportunity to start making his impression.

[Joel]

As brilliant as Bergkamp was, when people think of Arsenal, the first person that will come to their head is Henry. There is no doubting that he was the face of Arsenal.

[Barry]

Henry, Bergkamp or Brady. All three incredibly stylish and graceful. Gun to my head it's Henry.

[Jesus]

Bergkamp and Henry are both great players but I prefer Dennis. His technique was sublime. He came at Arsenal aged 27 and continued until he was 37. I can't find good enough words to describe this footballer. Some will say I'm crazy(considering I'm a Man Utd fan) but I just think he was fantastic. He had it all,(he wasn't as quick as Martins but his other attributes compensated) one of the finest SS.

[Wan]

I"m voting for Bergkamp.

[Dundon's]

I found this for sale on my travels.

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/coolestshop_1973_44855089


Stella? :rolleyes:

[Stella Artois]

I found this for sale on my travels.

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/coolestshop_1973_44855089


Stella? :rolleyes:

Where from, Sir?

It's the sort of item I'd probably buy, but never bother using as unless you're aware of the kit, most people would think I'm some chavvy idiot.

Sad, but true.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Predictions for Arsenal's trip to Prague to play Slavia???

I think it will be a harder game for Arsenal than the 7-0 thrashing not only because it is an away game but Slavia will be really wanting revenge over us.

A point for us and we qualify for the KO stages.

I think a 2-0 win, Song will take center stage and have a great game at CB with Gallas. Eduardo x2

I would like to see Fabianski play tonight but it looks like Manuel Faulty again. anyways, i suppose its much better than playing Lemon if we play any of the 2.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

0-0.

very disappointing performance by us, Almunia saved our butts with that save late on.

[chelsea11]

You really cant score without Fabregas... I was reading paper earlier with Wenger saying his team doesnt need Fab for goals...

[Bammers05]

I disagree with that. In the Carling Cup we score without him in most of the matches, e.g. our 3-0 win away to Sheffield United

[Viperized]

Slavia made it difficult for us. They played well. A draw isn't the worst result in the world; we're 1st no matter what. But I was slightly disappointed as we played 451, leaving Bendtner isolated and this didn't help Eduardo either who didn't find his tune on the wings.

[Joel]

Slavia made it difficult for us. They played well. A draw isn't the worst result in the world; we're 1st no matter what. But I was slightly disappointed as we played 451, leaving Bendtner isolated and this didn't help Eduardo either who didn't find his tune on the wings.

You're qualified no matter what, but you are not group winners yet.

[Charlie: 9]

I found this for sale on my travels.

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/coolestshop_1973_44855089


Stella? :rolleyes:

A few months ago that top, along with the United and Liverpool ones, were 75% off in Clockwork Orange.

[JoeyM]

You really cant score without Fabregas... I was reading paper earlier with Wenger saying his team doesnt need Fab for goals...

Erm...the fact that we were without Hleb, Rosicky, RvP, and Adebayor may have had something to do with it as well.

[Barry]

Where from, Sir?

It's the sort of item I'd probably buy, but never bother using as unless you're aware of the kit, most people would think I'm some chavvy idiot.

Sad, but true.

Know what you mean, I have a cool t-shirt with an image George Best on it, made up of his written name and I've had several people (among them football fans) already ask me who that is. There was one guy who knew and he was a teacher of mine :no:

[Dundon's]

I think last night's result showed another side to our squad. With half the first team rested, away from home and with some of the worst rain I've ever seen I thought our young fellas did us proud.

One point was all we needed to complete the mission so getting that along with another clean sheet has to be looked at as an excellent result for us. Few years ago our best side would of struggled to take something out of a game like that.

Lets also take into account that Slavia had a lot to prove last night, them boys defended as if their lives were at stake in a game we totally controlled despite the football not being what we're used to, conditions wouldn't of helped that either like I said already.

[Bammers05]

Arsenal midfielder Gilberto is hoping to remain at Emirates Stadium for the remainder of his career.

The Brazil international has been linked with a move away from The Gunners after slipping out of Arsene Wenger's first-team plans this season.


An extended pre-season break in the wake of the Copa America saw Mathieu Flamini take over the midfield holding role alongside talented Spaniard Cesc Fabregas.


Despite admitting his frustration at being out of the side, Gilberto is hoping to extend his current contract, which still has 18 months to run.



Condition


He said: "It is not just down to me, but it would be great if I extend my contract with the club and finish my career here. We will see if the club has the same feeling.


"I am not thinking about leaving the club now.


"I prefer to think that I have the condition to get back in the team. I will do my job, do my best to achieve that. This is what I have in mind."


The Brazilian was quick to deny he had fallen out with Wenger, with Gilberto often asked to fill in at centre-half when needed, rather than his favoured central midfield role.



Respect


"This is not true," he said. "If I have said something to Arsene, it would never come out in the papers. I would go to him and speak to him face-to-face; we have great respect for each other.


"Everyone knows I am not 100 per cent happy to be on the bench, that's normal - but I am being professional and doing my job.


"I respect everybody in the squad, I respect him and I respect his decision. It's the only thing I can do."


Source (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_2868904,00.html)

Your thoughts?

[Dundon's]

Refreshing

[Nturtle]

At least Gilberto is honest. I think we'll need his services in the run up to so many games/cups/comps...when you are part of a TEAM...I don't think it is too much not to play every game. You take your chances...no matter your history.

[ThierryHenry14]

is our league game on monday this week?

[Jonny2J]

is our league game on monday this week?Versus Reading as well I do believe.

[Zoolander]

The outright winner of the poll was Bergkamp with 18 votes followed by Henry. Not surprising since the age group of this site won't have really seen most of the others play.

I have a controversial poll coming up next.

[Stella Artois]

Answer: No.

[ThierryHenry14]

for some reason it says i have already voted anyways my answer is NO

[Zoolander]

Try again.

[mufcsean]

I think it's fair to say no, they let player go only when they arent needed anymore, i think the likes of Fabregas, van Persie Senderos will be there for the long haul, they will generate lots of intrest from the bigger clubs but Wenger won't let them leave till they are no longer needed by the club.

[Stella Artois]

Hopefully Blunderos is shipped out in the January transfer window.

[Calzone]

What does the poll mean by a selling club?

[Stella Artois]

Clue is in the question, idiot.

[Scarface]

I think it's fair to say no, they let player go only when they arent needed anymore.

Exactly.

Obviously there are a few exceptions (Anelka, Overmars etc) like at every club, but that is generally the case.

A selling club sells when the money is right, we sell when the time is right.

If Arsenal were a selling club, they would have sold Vieira the season before they did for almost twice the money, or Henry for whatever ridiculous sum it was Abramovich offered, when he was moronic enough to think Thierry would even be remotely interested in joining them.

[Calzone]

Clue is in the question, idiot.

Chill out.
we sell when the time is right.
I agree with you.

[-Shaun-]

Arsenal VS Reacing....

My analysis....

Starting 11:

-------------------Almunia---------------------
-----Sagna----Toure----Gallas----Clichy--------
-------------------Diarra-----------------------
------Walcott----Fabregas----Hleb-------------
------------Adebayor----Eduardo--------------

Substitutions:

Fabianski
Hoyte
Senderos
Diaby
Bendtner

Score Prediction:

4-0 to the Arsenal.

Also....

I really did think about placing Fabianski in the Starting Line-Up. He has really impressed me, and deserves a chance. However, Almunia should rightly keep his First-Place spot. Yes, he did make some mistakes in our last Premier League game, but he does still deserve a place. Apart from that, I have to say he has done well. For me, as I am sure many of us think, that Lehmann is out of the question. I think the reasons are self-explanotary. Almunia all the way.

Sagna to keep his place- he has done amazingly well so far, definitley Arsenal class.

Toure and Gallas are our men. No reason to doubt there performances, they are both world-class.

Clichy, again, one of our performers. A very versitile player, good at both attacking and defending.

Theo Walcott. Some could argue that he should not be Starting, but it would boost his confidence. He has the ability to give their team such a hard time, and I hope he plays well. A big game for Walcott.

Diarra all the way in that defensive-midfielder role. In the games that he has played, he has been immense. Such an engine on him, he has got stamina. Fabregas, the centre of all our attacks, love him.

Hleb has been another outstanding player this season. He has outshone many, played great. What a player; Hleb.

I am going to go with the partnership of Adebayor and Eduardo in attack. Adebayor needs to get back onto top-form, and it will come. Eduardo has performed well recently- keep it up.

A must-win game for us. We have a game-in-hand from some others, and we can really show people how good we are out on that pitch. We should be top of the table ater this game, no problems. We love you Arsenal.

Come on you Arsenal.

[Stella Artois]

Senderos won't be travelling with the squad, and there's no chance of Lehmann not being on the bench. I'd also expect to see Flamini start.

Otherwise good post. Welcome to the site.

[Zoolander]

What does the poll mean by a selling club?

West Ham were a prime example.

[mufcsean]

Ajax, Sporting etc

[Dundon's]

West Ham were a prime example.


You've some neck putting them in the same sentence as us.


Sure we sell on players when they're just hitting 30. Don't expect to see Fab and the other youngsters leaving anytime soon.


P.S. This poll is an insult and I'd like it removed please.

[mufcsean]

New topic for poll?

[Dundon's]

Easy, have Arsenal enough in the tank to go all the way and win the premiership.

Way more relevant to the current situation we're in.

[Scarface]

I was thinking of "Who should replace Kolo Toure during the African Nations Cup?"

Gilberto Silva
Johan Djourou
Philippe Senderos
Other (state whom)


I'll add your suggestion, and do the other one after.

What do you want for the options?

Yes
No
Maybe (too early to tell)

?

[Dundon's]

Yep that works, good shout.

[Jake Small]

Oops. I voted as you were changing the poll, I meant "no" to selling club, not to the title poll. Well whatever.

[Stella Artois]

I was thinking of "Who should replace Kolo Toure during the African Nations Cup?"

Gilberto Silva
Johan Djourou
Philippe Senderos
Other (state whom)


I'll add your suggestion, and do the other one after.

What do you want for the options?

Yes
No
Maybe (too early to tell)

?


Shouldn't it be something like:

Just how far away from the club should Senderos be, during the AoN? I'm nervous already at the prospect of him playing.

[Dundon's]

It's a better question alright but maybe we can save it for when the shit hits the fan.

The main thing is Gallas stays fit for the entire period.

[AgentZero]

im hopin toure and adebayor have a big game, theyre both in my FL

[Scarface]

Shouldn't it be something like:

Just how far away from the club should Senderos be, during the AoN? I'm nervous already at the prospect of him playing.

Me too, but I reckon Wenger will ask Gilberto to fill in, and i'm never comfortable seeing him at centre back either. Gallas is going to have to be at his very best during the New Year period.

At least the games we've got don't appear too difficult, on paper anyway.

Tuesday, 01 January 2008
Barclays Premier League
Arsenal v West Ham, 15:00

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

Saturday, 12 January 2008
Barclays Premier League
Arsenal v Birmingham, 15:00

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

Saturday, 19 January 2008
Barclays Premier League
Fulham v Arsenal, 15:00

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

Tuesday, 29 January 2008
Barclays Premier League
Arsenal v Newcastle, 19:45

EDIT: Didn't realise it goes on until February 10th for the finalists, so Toure and Eboue could potentially miss the below fixtures aswell...

Saturday, 02 February 2008
Barclays Premier League
Man City v Arsenal, 15:00

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

Saturday, 09 February 2008
Barclays Premier League
Arsenal v Blackburn, 15:00

[Stella Artois]

Aye, but have you seen the run of games prior to that?

Can't remember them all but I know we have Chelsea at home, Spurs home, Everton away and Pompey away. We really need to pick up our points there.

I reckon Djourou may get a few more games. Maybe even Song!

I agree though, Gilberto just isn't a centre-back.

[Nifty1Pound50]

I'd rather see Gilberto at the back than Song. Even with an unbelievable lack of pace and genuine inability to actually move, Gilberto still instills me with more confidence than any of the half-wits we have sitting on our bench.

Djourou would indeed be the only one that might be able to deputise fairly solidly - the problem, Stella, is he plays for Birmingham these days. ;)

[Dundon's]

Played today actually, is there a call back option?

On a side note I know Bruce is frothing in the mouth for Bendtner back on loan again.

[Scarface]

Yeah, I believe it's only a 5 month loan, and I think Wenger said Djourou will return in January, and agreed the Birmingham loan so he could gain more Premiership experience, before possibly filling in for Toure while he's away on International duty.

EDIT:

Arsène Wenger has defended his decision to let Johan Djourou go to Birmingham on loan.

The 20-year-old centre back made 30 appearances for Arsenal last term and is widely considered to be one of the brightest talents at the Club. So it was a surprise when he was allowed to move to St Andrews until the New Year.

Injuries to William Gallas and Philippe Senderos meant midfielder Gilberto had to fill in at the back against Manchester City on Saturday but despite this Wenger feels he has not made a mistake.

“I knew when Djourou left that Alex Song can play in there and Gilberto has played in there already,” said Wenger. “I wanted him to be experienced. I know Kolo will go in January [to the African Nations Cup] and I want Johan to play.”

http://www.arsenal.com/article.asp?thisNav=first%20te am&article=480776&cpid=703&title=Wenger+-+I+loaned+Djourou+so+he+could+ play

[Stella Artois]

I accept your apology Nifty. It's no problem, we all make mistakes.

[Dundon's]

:rolleyes:



Another question is do we really need another established CB in our squad?

[JoeyM]

:rolleyes:



Another question is do we really need another established CB in our squad?

If Senderos had lived up to his early promise, then no, we wouldn't, but considering he's gone backwards then yes, I'd say we need someone who's at least fairly reliable.

[Stella Artois]

We could really do with another centre-back, but I don't see one forthcoming.

I'd love it if Senderos either started to perform as I like him as a person, but I don't see it happening.

[Jesus]

We could really do with the auto merging of double posts and deletion of exact double posts.(deletion of only one of them)

Djourou is talented and usually performs well. I doubt you'll need another CB unless it is some experience you want.

[Dundon's]

If Senderos had lived up to his early promise, then no, we wouldn't, but considering he's gone backwards then yes, I'd say we need someone who's at least fairly reliable.

I'm still sure that kid will make a top CB as he's not really Cygan material, he seems to go through good periods until he runs up against someone like Frogba and then it's back to square one in people minds again.

[Nturtle]

Well...I think Senderos is just not athletic enough now...but still you could say the likes of him and Cygan always have their place! Micah Richards has a great future...until he gets injured etc etc ! Too early to say too much...I'm thinking Song wasn't too bad against Sparta actually!

[Wan]

Lehmann hints at Arsenal exit
Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has admitted he may leave Arsenal in the January transfer window in order to save his international career.

Lehmann is the current Germany No.1, but he has lost his place in the Gunners first-team to Manuel Almunia.

The 38-year-old has now hinted he may consider leaving Emirates Stadium in order to secure first-team football as he bids to maintain his place in the Germany side for Euro 2008.

Lehmann is set for talks with Germany coach Joachim Low at Christmas and the shot-stopper says he will then make a decision on his future.

Option

"Given what the Germany coach says, I will have to see how things are in December," Lehmann told Kicker magazine.

"I definitely want to play at Euro 2008. Playing there has always been my aim."

"The Bundesliga is always attractive and is an option, and maybe the German second division is too."

Lehmann, though, insists he has not given up hope of regaining his place in Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger's first XI.

Motivation

"The situation is as it is. It is only important what the manager decides and I am using this phase to train intensively every day," Lehmann added.

"The manager knows I am highly motivated. I would like to play again soon and expect that I will do.

"I would be very surprised if that was not the case."

[Viperized]

I'm still sure that kid will make a top CB as he's not really Cygan material, he seems to go through good periods until he runs up against someone like Frogba and then it's back to square one in people minds again.
There have been ocassions where Wenger has opted for Gilberto at CB rather than Senderos.

I think that is saying something - Senderos doesn't seem like he has a big future at this club from what it looks like.

I hope Djourou will fill in at CB. He seems to be similar to Toure in some ways and was excellent for us last season whenever played.

[JoeyM]

I'm still sure that kid will make a top CB as he's not really Cygan material, he seems to go through good periods until he runs up against someone like Frogba and then it's back to square one in people minds again.

He depends too much on confidence. One shite game ruins him.

[Viperized]

We're playing 451 against a defensive team. Great.

We must switch to 442 in the second half, with two strikers on the pitch.

[Zoolander]

Flamini you cunt!

[Jonny2J]

Flamini you cunt!That's what most were saying up until two months ago.

[Zoolander]

That's what most were saying up until two months ago.

:laugh:

I set them up, you tap them in.

[Jonny2J]

Another brilliant team goal there.

Once again I'm sat here drooling over Arsenal.

[ThierryHenry14]

that means we are now top again

[Rossy Boy]

are there any highlights tonight?

[ThierryHenry14]

3-0 now Hleb scored

[Nturtle]

Top...but barely with a silly late goal to Reading... 2-1 go Gunners!!

[ThierryHenry14]

3-1 Nturtle

[Jonny2J]

Always says the right words whenever I've seen Cesc getting interviewed.

[Cannon ball]

Very Cescual.

[Scarface]

Good to see Adebayor back in the goals and on form. In truth, I think my Nan could have had a good game against Reading's backline tonight, but some of his play was superb. Shame he didn't get a deserved brace due to the linesman incorrectly ruling out his second. Would have had two goal of the month contenders.

[pistolpete]

Hmm, Adebayor is getting a lot of praise for tonights performance but im not so sure, i watched the game and he looked quite clumsy, quite a few careless passes.

At one point the stat came up that we had 6 offsides and i couldnt think who else had been - for me thats way too much, although one or two were dubious, i.e the goal.
I thought that his chance at the start should have gone in and YES his goal was a good finish, but he had other chances where his composure let him down.
I dont mean to bring the guy down but he is getting a lot of praise atm and i think he is a lot better than the way he is playing,

They said that he terrorised the Raeding defence but i hardly noticed him until the 2nd half when they opened up.
Come on Ade, you can do much better.

Really good performance from us tonight though, we were patient and mostly composed.

Eboue has disappointed me this season - i think that he would be better on the wing in an open gaem where he can use his pace and power but his passing and decision making needs improving, his miss at the end where he ran the ball off was embarassing.

Lots more to come from us i think, hopefully we wont pick up anymore injuries in the internationals, and RVP willl be back for our next game.

Sorry to put 2 players down after a good away performance that takes us to the top of the league - just these things bug me when im watching - cant help notice them!

[Viperized]

Hleb was brilliant. Possibly the most underrated in the Premiership - he never gets any praise to be honest.

He is just as important as Fabregas in the Arsenal team.

I loved the last two goals. Brilliant team-work for the first and for the second Hleb made a complete fool of the keeper.

[calculus]

We're playing 451 against a defensive team. Great.

We must switch to 442 in the second half, with two strikers on the pitch.

That's why AW is the manager and a good 1 at that, you don't need 2 strikers to break a team down.(Urban myth)

Hmm, Adebayor is getting a lot of praise for tonights performance but im not so sure, i watched the game and he looked quite clumsy, quite a few careless passes.

At one point the stat came up that we had 6 offsides and i couldnt think who else had been - for me thats way too much, although one or two were dubious, i.e the goal.
I thought that his chance at the start should have gone in and YES his goal was a good finish, but he had other chances where his composure let him down.
I dont mean to bring the guy down but he is getting a lot of praise atm and i think he is a lot better than the way he is playing,

They said that he terrorised the Raeding defence but i hardly noticed him until the 2nd half when they opened up.
Come on Ade, you can do much better.

Really good performance from us tonight though, we were patient and mostly composed.

Eboue has disappointed me this season - i think that he would be better on the wing in an open gaem where he can use his pace and power but his passing and decision making needs improving, his miss at the end where he ran the ball off was embarassing.

Lots more to come from us i think, hopefully we wont pick up anymore injuries in the internationals, and RVP willl be back for our next game.

Sorry to put 2 players down after a good away performance that takes us to the top of the league - just these things bug me when im watching - cant help notice them!


I don't know what to say about your abuse of Adebayor he was brilliant tonight. He worked hard, held the ball up well, brought others into the game, scored a goal, hit the post, had a goal WRONGLY disallowed, nutmegged Nicky Shorey, skinned another defender(not sure who) with a lovely piece of skill in the first half and for me he was always involved in the play...what more do you want? A hat-trick every week? I can think of 1 really poor pass but other than that nothing that I can complain about!

[Dundon's]

Hleb was brilliant. Possibly the most underrated in the Premiership - he never gets any praise to be honest.


Is it just me or is Hlebs ability to turn very similar to Best and Cruyff? :huh:

[pistolpete]

I don't know what to say about your abuse of Adebayor he was brilliant tonight. He worked hard, held the ball up well, brought others into the game, scored a goal, hit the post, had a goal WRONGLY disallowed, nutmegged Nicky Shorey, skinned another defender(not sure who) with a lovely piece of skill in the first half and for me he was always involved in the play...what more do you want? A hat-trick every week? I can think of 1 really poor pass but other than that nothing that I can complain about!

Not sure i would call it abuse, but thats what i noticed from watching the game, i thought in the 1st half he was the one who was losing possesion.
Maybe im watching him wth too much of a critical eye - maybe after watching years of Henrys stunning performances - im spoiled.

Maybe also im gutted that its his 1st goal since Derby as thats when i put him in my dream team!

Teletext Ratings for us last night, Ade/Fabregas 9, Almunia 7, everyone else 8.

One thing i forgot to mention last night was Diarra when he came on was brilliant, never lost possession and made every tackle he went for, hope he gets more games soon.
I only worry that we have so many good central midfielders, Cesc, Diarra, Gilberto, Flamini, Diaby and Denilson would play in most teams, how can we keep them all happy, and when is Merida going to get a chance to shine?

[Dundon's]

General question here lads.

Does anyone know what kind of wages we're paying these days?


With all the youngsters knocking about you'd be thinking we're saving a mint.

Squad average of around 30k maybe?

[Viperized]

I'm guessing Gallas is our highest paid player.

[ThierryHenry14]

or fabregas

[Dundon's]

Yea I'd say Gallas is up around the 80k bracket but most of them kids I'd expect are on around 10-15k tops. The more established ones closer to 20-30k.

Fab could be on around 50k a week, I'd just love to know because it came up the other day in a conversation.

[Stella Artois]

Brilliant. Viperized had yet another moan before actually bothering to watch the game.

You're priceless.

Dundon's, our wage bill is extremely high. I'd say a lot of them are on much more than you'd think.

Edit: Viperized, care to tell me what formation we used when we beat Reading 4-0 at their ground last year?

[Meyyappan]

Is it just me or do you guys also think that fabregas purposely fouled the reading player to get the yellow card?if he did then i think its brilliant ,he was already on 4yellow cards instead of missing crucial games he's just missing a home game against wigan.

[Stella Artois]

Possibly, although unlike Beckham (it was him?), he won't be stupid enough to admit it.

[calculus]

I think we are going to have to be extremely fortunate with injuries to win the title because United look formidable!

[Stella Artois]

Can't do much more than we are at the moment - top of the league, unbeaten and all that...

[calculus]

Yeah, we're doing well but I think we will need 28-30 wins to take the title I hope RvP will be back for DEC. 16

[Dundon's]

Dundon's, our wage bill is extremely high. I'd say a lot of them are on much more than you'd think.



Yea probably, It's just something I'd like to know though. :blush:

[Stella Artois]

Arsenal amaze Dave Kitson
By John Ley
Last Updated: 12:02am GMT 14/11/2007

After being on the sharp end of a 3-1 defeat by Arsenal, Reading striker Dave Kitson believes the Premier League leaders are now ''the best team on the planet".

Kitson, a one-time Tottenham fan, offered a fascinating player's insight into the way Arsene Wenger's side play following Monday night's encounter, after which Arsenal replaced Manchester United at the top.

"It is unbelievably difficult to play against Arsenal," said Kitson. "They are without doubt the best footballing team on the planet right now. It's absolutely phenomenal stuff. You just have to take your hat off to them.

''Trying to get near [Cesc] Fabregas, [Alexander] Hleb, [Tomas] Rosicky - it's a tough ask. The thing that amazes you most is they are not just passing to each other - they are passing so that person can run on to the ball and then his mind is already made up what he is going to do next. It is just magic, it is unbelievable.

"It is not overly quick, to be honest with you. Fabregas puts his foot on the ball, has a look, sees what he wants to do and then he plays it four yards in front of him to Hleb. He'll turn round, play it another four yards, Fabregas has already gone past and so it goes on."

Arsenal are ahead of United on goals scored and have a game in hand - at Newcastle United on Dec 5.

Manchester City and Chelsea are not far behind but Kitson added: "It's interesting because it's different styles. Arsenal are not reliant on one, two, three or even four people. They all chip in even though, against us, they didn't really use their full-backs too much simply because they didn't need to and that's where I thought they had another couple of gears to go. Man United, Chelsea...it will be close at the end of the season and that's what everyone wants to see.

"For a Tottenham fan to say this is blasphemy, but you hope that a team who play as well as that win something.

''And that approach is justified because it is just magic."

Kitson believes Arsenal's domination could continue well into the future. "With the last team Wenger put together, I think they won two Doubles, which is a frightening thing to do anyway.

''Look at the players he has let go. When that money came in from Barcelona for Thierry Henry, Wenger must have been looking at it and looking at [Emmanuel] Adebayor and thinking it was Christmas. He had a player waiting there for his chance and the unbelievable thing is that he probably won't even spend the money. These kids he has coming through, I don't know where they get them from but they are all unbelievable.

''Just looking at Adebayor as a technician and as a player, that is what every striker should aspire to. He is just fantastic."

Adebayor scored Arsenal's second goal at the Madejski Stadium - and Arsenal's 1,000th in the Premier League - and Kitson added: "His finish for the goal came at him 100mph and he just cushioned it into the far corner. Even Kolo Toure standing next to me was just full of admiration."

Arsenal's slick passing game has also drawn praise from a more illustrious source with Pele adding his name to their growing list of admirers last night.

"Arsenal are my favourite team right now," said the legendary Brazilian, ''and I think they are the best performing team in the Premier League."

Arsenal's next outing is against Wigan, and then they face three successive away games including the crucial game in hand at St James' Park.

They do not travel to Old Trafford until April 12, which could become a title showdown.

That's an excellent read.

I particularly like the bit in bold. :happy:

[Jesus]

When are you lot going to play the game you have in hand?

[Viperized]

Brilliant. Viperized had yet another moan before actually bothering to watch the game.

You're priceless.

Dundon's, our wage bill is extremely high. I'd say a lot of them are on much more than you'd think.

Edit: Viperized, care to tell me what formation we used when we beat Reading 4-0 at their ground last year?
Hahaha.

So it is not okay for me to analyse any problems we may have during half-time? The fact was playing 451 in the first half left as with too many players in midfield and too few in attack.

And I was watching the game. Did you?

I've never liked the 451 formation for several reasons. It may have worked in Europe but I don't think it helps us much during the Premiership, particularly against sides who like to defend deep. We didn't beat Reading 4-0 simply thanks to the formation. We beat them because played them off the park.

[Viperized]

Yeah, we're doing well but I think we will need 28-30 wins to take the title I hope RvP will be back for DEC. 16
Van Persie will be back for the game against Wigan.

[Meyyappan]

When are you lot going to play the game you have in hand?

IN DECEMBER

[Stella Artois]

Hahaha.

So it is not okay for me to analyse any problems we may have during half-time? The fact was playing 451 in the first half left as with too many players in midfield and too few in attack.

Not when you can't analyse for shit. You literally have no clue as to what you're talking about.

And I was watching the game. Did you?

Other than missing the first 10 minutes, yes I did watch the game.

I've never liked the 451 formation for several reasons. It may have worked in Europe but I don't think it helps us much during the Premiership, particularly against sides who like to defend deep. We didn't beat Reading 4-0 simply thanks to the formation. We beat them because played them off the park.

So what's the problem? :laugh:

[Viperized]

And you do?

If we play badly in the first half, I'll mention it. If we play shit, I'll mention it. So do not hope or expect I'll stop "moaning".

:rolleyes:

The formation was one of the reasons why our performance was fairly poor in the first half. Many Arsenal fans agree with me. Not on this forum from what it looks like though but on others? Yep.

We were struggling to break them down. Fabregas only had one target to feed the ball too (Adebayor). Wenger mentioned Adebayor was left isolated when we played the formation the other week, and the same happened again, unsurprisingly.

We don't even have the personnel for the formation. But playing it shows that Wenger doesn't trust Eduardo or Bendtner. Which is making me wonder why we even bothered to spend money on him if he is never going to get games for us. Why bother getting a player when you aren't going to play him? There is no doubt that this is knocking his confidence.

At least when Van Persie returns we'll switch to our usual formation.

If you thought we were brilliant that night then clearly you must've watched a different game. Then again, you probably did think we played brilliantly, since at the end of the day results matter, the performance can be easily neglected. /sarcasm

[Jonny2J]

Isn't your game in hand against us?

[Stella Artois]

Indeed it is Jonny.

Viperized, I know more than enough to actually watch the entirety of the game first, before commenting.

The fact we won there last year playing the same formation should have been enough of an indicator as to how the game could eventually pan out.

You need to learn that we can't always be 5-0 up and crusing at half-time.

Edit: Just seen you've edited your post. Shouldn't have bothered either, as it's a load of crap.

These people wouldn't happen to be the idiots on Arsenal-Mania by any chance, would they?

[Viperized]

Indeed it is Jonny.

Viperized, I know more than enough to actually watch the entirety of the game first, before commenting.

The fact we won there last year playing the same formation should have been enough of an indicator as to how the game could eventually pan out.

You need to learn that we can't always be 5-0 up and crusing at half-time.

Edit: Just seen you've edited your post. Shouldn't have bothered either, as t's a load of crap.

These people wouldn't happen to be the idiots on Arsenal-Mania by any chance, would they?
Yeah... great! So if something has worked before, we must try it out again? If you say so.

Load of crap? None of those things occurred to you while watching the game?

[Stella Artois]

A wonderful reply there.

Why don't you knock up a CV and send it to Arsene and suggest that perhaps it's time he moved upstairs? Given you're clearly the tactical expert around here.

Woe betide the team for comfortably managing to win the game. How very dare they.

God you post-98 fans annoy me.

[Viperized]

Ok. Thanks for the tip.

[Adammce05]

Stella does have a point btw, yous did win 3-1 just to remind you, fail to see how thats bad.

[Viperized]

I didn't say thats bad.

Stella was just complaining at this post:

Originally Posted by Viperized View Post
We're playing 451 against a defensive team. Great.

We must switch to 442 in the second half, with two strikers on the pitch.

[Stella Artois]

He can't help it, Adammce.

He's a post-1998 fan who seems to believe that unless we're completely and utterly outplaying the opposition, and at least 5 goals ahead by half-time, that we're playing poorly.

Viperized, that's probably because we were already winning at that point, and we played the exact same way last year on our way to a 4-0 win.

Never mind, eh? You clearly know more than Wenger.

[Adammce05]

Were yous not 1-0 up in the first half ? That's still good lol.
Yous were playing good, yous posted it in the 3rd minute for fuck sakes.

[Stella Artois]

Aye, but it was only 1-0! It has to be 5-0 for him to be satisfied.

:laugh:

[Adammce05]

Lol fuck sake.

I dont get the point in that, aye horsing a team is good and all, but a wins a win innut ? =S.

I dunno that might just be my twisted logic, but I'm happy if my team win, if its 1-0 or 11-0.

[Viperized]

Aye, but it was only 1-0! It has to be 5-0 for him to be satisfied.

:laugh:
What the hell are you on about?

The time of the post was 20:33. It was 0-0.

[Adammce05]

So you were complaining BEFORE half time ? what the hell is the point in that ? Complaining mid match, cause now you look silly for moaning, then yous go and score =S.

[Viperized]

Lol fuck sake.

I dont get the point in that, aye horsing a team is good and all, but a wins a win innut ? =S.

I dunno that might just be my twisted logic, but I'm happy if my team win, if its 1-0 or 11-0.
I'm also happy. But Stella doesn't like me posting bad things about Arsenal. :(

[Stella Artois]

No, you just have a habit of posting absolute rubbish.

It happens I guess when you only start supporting the club once it gains some success.

[Adammce05]

Gloryhunter ?.

Get plenty of them around here, like I seen a guy wearing A Celtic trackie top, with the Rangers shirt on underneath it :| wtf.

People who support a club cause theyve started doing well are idiots, the idea behind being a supporter is that you follow them through the good, and the bad, the relegations, the mid tables, the wins, the cups getting lifted, everything.

Anyway, veering off topic, I've started following Arsenal quite a bit myself(cause my best mate is a die-hard Gunner) and I must say, yous have the best go at the title this year I think, hope yous do get it, obv I'd rather see Liverpool lift it, but not much chance of that this season :P.

[Jonny2J]

So you were complaining BEFORE half time ? what the hell is the point in that ? Complaining mid match, cause now you look silly for moaning, then yous go and score =S.Take a step back there a second.

We were 3-0 down versus Pompey after 9 minutes the other week, do I not have the right to complain then?

[Viperized]

Gloryhunter ?.

Get plenty of them around here, like I seen a guy wearing A Celtic trackie top, with the Rangers shirt on underneath it :| wtf.

People who support a club cause theyve started doing well are idiots, the idea behind being a supporter is that you follow them through the good, and the bad, the relegations, the mid tables, the wins, the cups getting lifted, everything.

Anyway, veering off topic, I've started following Arsenal quite a bit myself(cause my best mate is a die-hard Gunner) and I must say, yous have the best go at the title this year I think, hope yous do get it, obv I'd rather see Liverpool lift it, but not much chance of that this season :P.
Heh. If I was a gloryhunter, like Stella is suggesting, I would've stopped supporting this club by now. Arsenal have won nothing over the past 3 years.

[Stella Artois]

Judging by your posts you're not far away from it. :laugh:

[Dundon's]

Anyway, veering off topic, I've started following Arsenal quite a bit myself(cause my best mate is a die-hard Gunner) and I must say, yous have the best go at the title this year I think, hope yous do get it, obv I'd rather see Liverpool lift it, but not much chance of that this season :P.


God forbidding we don't win it I'll still look back on this team in years to come.

I don't ever remember anyone moving the ball around like we are at the moment.

Wait... The Barcelona team that beat Utd 3-0 were exceptional too, I remember Romario tearing them to shreds that night and along with that Barca were doing the 40 passes thing.

[Viperized]

Judging by your posts you're not far away from it. :laugh:
Apparently by posting this I'm a gloryhunter!

Originally Posted by Viperized View Post
We're playing 451 against a defensive team. Great.

We must switch to 442 in the second half, with two strikers on the pitch.
--

But for all I know you may have begun supporting the club during 2002.

[Adammce05]

Take a step back there a second.

We were 3-0 down versus Pompey after 9 minutes the other week, do I not have the right to complain then?

Nah thats not my point mate, he's saying that Arsenal needed to rework how they were playing, mid through the FIRST half, sitting 0-0, there's a difference in being the top teams playing a mid table team, playing well capable of getting that goal given time, and being 3-0 down to a team just as good as you.

[Jonny2J]

God forbidding we don't win it I'll still look back on this team in years to come.

I don't ever remember anyone moving the ball around like we are at the moment.

Wait... The Barcelona team that beat Utd 3-0 were exceptional too, I remember Romario tearing them to shreds that night and along with that Barca were doing the 40 passes thing.Barcelona over the past few seasons?

[Stella Artois]

You mean for one season.

Edit: Your example of being 3-0 down hardly compares to being 1-0 up, does it...

You also haven't answered me in the United thread.

[Dundon's]

Barcelona over the past few seasons?


Meh...

[Jonny2J]

You mean for one season.

Edit: Your example of being 3-0 down hardly compares to being 1-0 up, does it...

You also haven't answered me in the United thread.Direct me to your question and I shall give my best response.

No the point I was making was that it was mentioned that you couldn't complain before half-time, but you can. Well I know I can anyways.

[Stella Artois]

"Care to name any for us this season Jonny?" - when you decided to say the big four get all the favourable decisions. ;)

We've had nothing to complain about, but he always finds a way. :laugh:

27 games unbeaten now in all competitions.

[Jonny2J]

"Care to name any for us this season Jonny?" - when you decided to say the big four get all the favourable decisions. ;)

We've had nothing to complain about, but he always finds a way. :laugh:

27 games unbeaten now in all competitions.Erm, I've seen about 4 or 5 Arsenal games/highlights in the Prem all season, give me all footage of this season and I'm sure I can stumble across something. ;)

[Stella Artois]

Trust me, you'll find that we're the one's that have been harshly dealt with. ;)

Hleb should have had a blatant penalty against Fulham, and even Sanchez had to apologise after saying that he'd dived initially! Add to that Adebayors "goal" last night that was clearly offside, or when he was wrongly flagged off against United whilst clean through on goal whilst it was 0-0, etc etc.

Believe me, we get our share of shocking decisions. ;)

The forum has been lucky we've not really been too heavily affected, as I'd be whinging like there's no tomorrow if it had cost us!

[Jake Small]

Stella weren't you like 9 years old in 1998.

[Wan]

He has a strong memory. ;)

[calculus]

And you do?

If we play badly in the first half, I'll mention it. If we play shit, I'll mention it. So do not hope or expect I'll stop "moaning".

:rolleyes:

The formation was one of the reasons why our performance was fairly poor in the first half. Many Arsenal fans agree with me. Not on this forum from what it looks like though but on others? Yep.

We were struggling to break them down. Fabregas only had one target to feed the ball too (Adebayor). Wenger mentioned Adebayor was left isolated when we played the formation the other week, and the same happened again, unsurprisingly.

We don't even have the personnel for the formation. But playing it shows that Wenger doesn't trust Eduardo or Bendtner. Which is making me wonder why we even bothered to spend money on him if he is never going to get games for us. Why bother getting a player when you aren't going to play him? There is no doubt that this is knocking his confidence.

At least when Van Persie returns we'll switch to our usual formation.

If you thought we were brilliant that night then clearly you must've watched a different game. Then again, you probably did think we played brilliantly, since at the end of the day results matter, the performance can be easily neglected. /sarcasm

Hey mate, there is more than 1 way to skin a cat and we got the desired result. Against Fulham we played with 2 strikers and didn't score till the last 10 minutes so your point about 2 strikers is a little off.

And also you need to give Eduardo time to settle, remember Adebayor has been at Arsenal since Jan '06 transfer window and he is just now coming good! It didn't happen straight away and nor does it happen for most of Wengers buys the take time to settle.

Anyway, what does we thinks of Beckham training with us till Feb...anyone reckon his a Man U spy?
:rolleyes:

[Stella Artois]

Stella weren't you like 9 years old in 1998.

10.

Quite what that has to do with anything is beyond me. You wouldn't know as you're not English, but most people tend to choose their team around about when they're 5 or 6?

[Viperized]

Hey mate, there is more than 1 way to skin a cat and we got the desired result. Against Fulham we played with 2 strikers and didn't score till the last 10 minutes so your point about 2 strikers is a little off.

And also you need to give Eduardo time to settle, remember Adebayor has been at Arsenal since Jan '06 transfer window and he is just now coming good! It didn't happen straight away and nor does it happen for most of Wengers buys the take time to settle.

Anyway, what does we thinks of Beckham training with us till Feb...anyone reckon his a Man U spy?
:rolleyes:
What the hell are you on about? If you can't read properly then don't bother posting.

[Stella Artois]

Pot, kettle, black.

:laugh:

[Meyyappan]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A29124038 An interesting read

[Dragonfly]

That article makes a very good point. I've always known in my heart (and brain) that Wenger is the better manager.

[Top Gun]

Ok, if you are going to use other peoples quotes so will I,

Let’s not forget that Fergie won leagues with Aberdeen breaking up the old firm dominance, he also won back to back leagues with them, a Scottish cup and won a European trophies with them.

Wenger won a league title and a Cup with Monaco and still has never defended a league title and has never won a European competition.

SAF won 3 FA Cups in that time.

His starting postion was 2nd from bottom in November 1986!

Wenger's starting postion was joint top of the league after about 8 games in October 1996!

SAF had to totally rebuild the side.

Wenger inherited 11 players who were good enough to win league winners medals in 1997/98.

[Dragonfly]

But it's the Premiership that counts. :shifty:

[Viperized]

Diaby seems to be unhappy that he isn't getting many games. To be honest we do have too many players in central midfield but Cesc and Flamini are the only ones who are getting games week in, week out. Wouldn't want him to leave though. He has the potential to become a top midfielder. I hope he stays.

Surely someone will leave soon:
Cesc, Flamini, Diarra, Diaby, Gilberto, Denilson...

[Wan]

I think Gilberto will if he doesn't have enough patience.

[Stella Artois]

Ok, if you are going to use other peoples quotes so will I,

You were still the biggest side in the country and had the biggest budget by far.

[Stella Artois]

I know double post. Feck off.

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/1632/splashdressinggownsz6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

That's extremely disturbing and shouldn't be on our front page. :huh:

[Meyyappan]

Diaby seems to be unhappy that he isn't getting many games. To be honest we do have too many players in central midfield but Cesc and Flamini are the only ones who are getting games week in, week out. Wouldn't want him to leave though. He has the potential to become a top midfielder. I hope he stays.

Surely someone will leave soon:
Cesc, Flamini, Diarra, Diaby, Gilberto, Denilson...

Song too if you rate him.Wonder if the players you mentioned would be happy if we got rid of him,wenger has been giving him some starts from the bench.


p.s:How do you post smileys

[carson1912]

Of course they do,

[Meyyappan]

Ok, if you are going to use other peoples quotes so will I,

Wenger would have got great success at monaco only for those idiots to fire him after a poor start,while fergie still had his man u jos after 3 trophyless seasons

[Viperized]

I know double post. Feck off.

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/1632/splashdressinggownsz6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

That's extremely disturbing and shouldn't be on our front page. :huh:
No shit.




:P

[Billy Minof]

No shit.
:P

He looks satisfied. :blush:

[mufcsean]

He has plans for that little boy :naughty:

[Stella Artois]

No shit.




:P

You failed horribly there.

Fuck sake this International break is boring me to tears already.

[Adammce05]

I know, I was just thinking that Stella lol, that I'm used to watching football all day on Sat ill I head out, but this week I'll just be pure 8-)...

[Viperized]

He looks satisfied. :blush:
He looks like Lawrence Fishburne from The Matrix.

http://arbredespossibles2.free.fr/SF/Images/Matrix06Morpheus_small.jpg

[Jesus]

Surely someone will leave soon:
Cesc, Flamini, Diarra, Diaby, Gilberto, Denilson...

Perhaps Wenger might make them all become class and sell the ones not needed. That is, the one with the bigger ego/any other disadvantages for big money.;)

[Wan]

Cesc. :naughty:

[Jesus]

Seriously fuck off Wan.

[Wan]

Who knows?

[wrigh2uk]

Cesc. :naughty:

Well when the 170m comes in for Cesc i will be sad to see him leave

[Wan]

Lehmann - I've had offers.

Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann claims he has received offers from other clubs interested in securing his services.

The Germany international's future at Emirates Stadium has been cast into doubt after he lost his place in the starting line-up, initially through injury and then with manager Arsene Wenger preferring to stick with Manuel Almunia.

Lehmann suggested last week he would be prepared to consider a move to Germany's second division in a bid for first-team football.

National team boss Joachim Low wants to see his No.1 playing regularly before next summer's Euro 2008 finals in Austria and Switzerland.

Thoughts

And Lehmann clearly believes he should be ahead of Spaniard Almunia in the Arsenal pecking order.

"I would like to be in the thoughts of my coach," Lehmann said.

"You can boil it all down to one question: Is the other goalkeeper better than me? If not, why am I not playing?

"I've shown I can win matches and titles. Even if he is just as good as me, I should be playing."

Lehmann has not ruled out staying with the Gunners, but insists there is already interest from teams keen to end his stint in North London.

He added: "There have been concrete offers. There have been some calls. But it's possible that I'll stay at Arsenal."

[Jesus]

Crazy, I think Lehmann is crazy. :huh:

[AgentZero]

I know double post. Feck off.

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/1632/splashdressinggownsz6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

That's extremely disturbing and shouldn't be on our front page. :huh:

thank god sol is at pompey...

[pistolpete]

What does anyone think about Walcott having a strop at not being allowed to take the penalty for the u21's the other night?

I know its bad behaviour but im glad the lad has an aggressive streak as nice guys finish last it seems in football.

[Viperized]

Don't mind.

[Dundon's]

What does anyone think about Walcott having a strop at not being allowed to take the penalty for the u21's the other night?

I know its bad behaviour but im glad the lad has an aggressive streak as nice guys finish last it seems in football.


I wasn't happy with him starting out on the wing. I'd say he might of been a little pissed too.

[Viperized]

I wasn't happy with him starting out on the wing. I'd say he might of been a little pissed too.
Watch out Dundon's... Stella might think you're a post-98 supporter for saying that, since Wenger mainly plays Walcott on the wings for us.

:tongue:

[Jonny2J]

I wasn't happy with him starting out on the wing. I'd say he might of been a little pissed too.Any reason why?

[Dundon's]

Because Theo is a center forward.

[Meyyappan]

Were we not supposed to buy this guy http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luka_Modri%C4%87

Seems like we don't want pay big,shame he is going to chelsea

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_2889393,00.html

<steam>

[Joel]

Were we not supposed to buy this guy http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luka_Modri%C4%87

Seems like we don't want pay big,shame he is going to chelsea

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_2889393,00.html

<steam>

Good news. Joel approves.

[Wan]

Good news.
He can be a good backup to SWP and Malouda.

[mufcsean]

He is too good to be back up to those 2, I'd rather see him at Arsenal than at Chelsea for sure, but Chelsea are only interested in him because Arsenal were

[Barry]

We were after Modric, but the board was too cheap to fork out the cash. He's a classic number 10, I'd have loved to have him here.

[Stella Artois]

Watch out Dundon's... Stella might think you're a post-98 supporter for saying that, since Wenger mainly plays Walcott on the wings for us.

:tongue:

Stick to telling Hleb jokes.

[Meyyappan]

Wenger said he had the money and he would strengthen one position and hopefully it will be the wings,with the rosicky problems:http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_2803768,00.html
Modric would get an immediate starting place,again we under pay our youngsters so he might move to chelsea for money

[Jesus]

Have any of you actually seen him play?(apart from Barry) I haven't. How good is he?

[mufcsean]

I've seen a few video's on him and a few Croatia games, he looked very good

[Dragonfly]

He actually reminds me of Rosicky a bit. Wenger seems to like putting attacking midfielders/playmakers on the wings. I'm not saying that's a bad thing, because it obviously seems to work. However, I would like to see an old fashioned winger, that runs down the flanks and whips in a good cross.

[Stella Artois]

Like Eboue...?

[Dragonfly]

A good cross.

Seriously though, I was thinking of him as I was typing it, but I want someone who's a bit more consistent. Having said that, he's been better than I thought he'd be as winger. I thought he'd just run into players like Lennon.

[Stella Artois]

The way I look at it, he's doing his bit just like everyone else, or we wouldn't be top.

It's unfashionable to say anything good about him, as everyone calls him a cheating cunt.

Truth of the matter is he's been very good this year.

[Joel]

He is too good to be back up to those 2, I'd rather see him at Arsenal than at Chelsea for sure, but Chelsea are only interested in him because Arsenal were

Yes, that is the reason Chelsea want him.

:rolleyes:

[Keyser Soze]

Ten Cate has apparently been targetting the guy for ages - since his days at Ajax, so buying him just because Arsenal are interested is pure shite.

[Stella Artois]

SWP spring to mind, Joel?

[Jonny2J]

Because Theo is a center forward.You don't moan when he plays out wide for Arsenal. :rolleyes:

[Joel]

SWP spring to mind, Joel?

I also think that is bullshit that we bought him because you waned him.

When we went into the Champions League semi final against Liverpool in 2004, we had both Robben and Duff out injured and only had Joe Cole on available as a winger. It was no secret that Robben and Duff were very injury prone (and still are), so we were simply adding to our choices in that position.

I know you will say £21m for a "back up" was too much, but that was the way the club was operating then.

[Viperized]

Stick to telling Hleb jokes.
You take everything to your heart. No wonder why you are always arguing. :erm:

[Stella Artois]

Probably because he isn't good enough to displace our current strikers, Jonny.

Joel, I'm glad to see you'll admit your club was run like a joke. Fair play. Personally I find it strange that given the huge pool of resources you had, you went for someone like SWP when you could have got someone else for roughly the same amount, who would have been better.

Viperized: :( Now go stick your 1998 DVD on. Good boy.

[Scarface]

He can be a good backup to SWP and Malouda.

He wouldn't accept being a res