Arsenal

[blob123]

Sagna ruled out for three weeks

Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna has been ruled out for at least three weeks with an ankle injury.

The France international scored the Gunners' goal in their 2-1 defeat at Chelsea on Sunday but then sustained the injury late on in the game.

Manager Arsene Wenger told Arsenal TV Online the loss of Sagna was 'completely disruptive' and now it appears he will have to find cover at right-back until mid-April at best.

'He has an ankle injury and the first news that we have is that he could be out for quite a while,' said Wenger.

'I don't know [exactly] how long he will be out but I feel it will be three weeks at least. Five is the [worst case scenario].

'I have seen the injury again on tape. He wanted to kick the ball out and he twisted his ankle. That made it a bad injury.'

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id...ccernet&cc=4716


And knowing the way Eboue reacts he could easily get a red, a ban or something of that nature.

[Zoolander]

Good start!

[ThierryHenry14]

Yet again 1-0 down!!!!!!!!!!

[blob123]

Toure does it again. Taylor has gotten the better of him like Drogba did earlier

[ThierryHenry14]

We lose today it could be a horrible end to the season..

[somegooner]

Shit. Utter Shit.

[ThierryHenry14]

Bye bye diaby :(:(

[Viperized]

Hah, typical.

And Wenger still plays him on the left wing. At least he won't be playing there next game.

Can't see us winning now. This looks more likely to be another trophyless season.

[somegooner]

Bendtner is crap
Wanna see Walcott.


EDIT: FLAMINI!!!! Now we're shooting but we have no finishing. Typical Reebok Stadium curse. Touré is slow and Almunia looks like he hasn't had a good night's sleep. He was reading about the boy in striped pyjamas.
http://www.premierleague.com/page/Headlines/0,,12306~1275525,00.html

[Zoolander]

2-0 :woot:

[JoeyM]

Can't help but laugh. i don't think we could make things more difficult for ourselves if we tried.

[Viperized]

Fucking hell.

[Jonny2J]

Could have really done with an Arsenal performance and win today for us. It's not over though, right? (Rhetorical question btw)

[somegooner]

Denis Irwin is so biased.

[Phil W.A.F.C]

:laugh:. Must be bad if Bolton are slapping you.

[JoeyM]

I wish that people would stop saying we "don't like to score ugly goals"

[somegooner]

At least we are shooting.

EDIT: Still down but class finish by Gallas.

[Phil W.A.F.C]

Get the fuck in there. Finish it off now do Wigan a favor :tongue:

[Wan]

2-2 now.
van Persie.
Another draw then?

[somegooner]

Phil we want it too.

EDIT: Phil, YOU ARE STAYING UP!!! THANKS TO FABREGAAAAAASSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!

[Jonny2J]

Lovely stuff.

[Bammers05]

:smug: What a comeback!

[Rambo]

Gutsy performance from Arsenal. And to think people thought Arsenal were out of the title race.

[Viperized]

Coming back from 2-0 down with ten men? Sounds like a fabulous performance.

[Sully]

Coming back from 2-0 down with ten men? Sounds like a fabulous performance.

Im sure there will be a few negatives for you to moan at;)

[somegooner]

I like Bendtner less and less every day though.

[pistolpete]

I watched the game today and i reckon the 1st hour was one of the worst i have ever seen us play - big heart from the team to come back with 10 men.

RVP looked very rusty.

To be honest Bolton were awful - hopefully this will lift the side with a good looking run in.

Diabys tackle was 100% a red card - i would go so far as to say it was as bad as the Taylor tackle cause he launched himself and it was aimed at the guy's standing foot. Lucky it didnt do similar damage.
Utterly stupid - 3 match suspension, and left us with a mountain to climb - way to show you are worth a starting position.

[Keyser Soze]

Hah, typical.

And Wenger still plays him on the left wing. At least he won't be playing there next game.

Can't see us winning now. This looks more likely to be another trophyless season.
You really are a fucking idiot. Stop posting while you're playing, atleast.

[Stella Artois]

Hah, typical.

And Wenger still plays him on the left wing. At least he won't be playing there next game.

Can't see us winning now. This looks more likely to be another trophyless season.

You Sir, are a massive, massive cunt.

I'm embarrassed to think my club is associated with people like you.

[Sully]

How many times has that happened to Viperized this season? I thought he'd have learnt his lesson by now

[Keyser Soze]

It's not even the fact that he says his team will lose, he can somehow predict how many trophies Arsenal will win by their half-time results (only if they are not winning, of course). :laugh:

[Dragonfly]

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/5196/image1bq6.jpg

[ThierryHenry14]

Good result but we as a top 4 team should never really be going into the 2nd half 2-0 down to Bolton..

I look forward to watching the game on MOTD.

[Don Sweey]

Is Viperized more negative than me? Discuss.

While I'm here - well done on the comeback today.

[somegooner]

Is Viperized more negative than me? Discuss.

While I'm here - well done on the comeback today.

Yes, Sweey, he is. At least you have some logic when predicting the worst. He just says it for no reason.

[Phil W.A.F.C]

Phil we want it too.

EDIT: Phil, YOU ARE STAYING UP!!! THANKS TO FABREGAAAAAASSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you Mr Fabregas. My opinion of you wont change because of this but thank you very much :). Basically GET THE FUCK IN THERE!!!!!!!!!! :tongue:

[somegooner]

Thank you Mr Fabregas. My opinion of you wont change because of this but thank you very much :). Basically GET THE FUCK IN THERE!!!!!!!!!! :tongue:

My opinion of you won't change either. I'm not doing this to please you. I just got overexcited. This was our first Reebok win in I-don't-know-how-many years.

[Adammce05]

He meant Fabregas I'm pretty certain btw.

Man that was mad, I was listening to the Gillette Saturday thing and you just heard Le Tissier going mad, then Charlie Nicholas going YES !. Was good lol.

Go on Arsenal.

[Phil W.A.F.C]

My opinion of you won't change either. I'm not doing this to please you. I just got overexcited. This was our first Reebok win in I-don't-know-how-many years.

I was on about Fabregas not you somegooner.

[ThierryHenry14]

My opinion of you won't change either. I'm not doing this to please you. I just got overexcited. This was our first Reebok win in I-don't-know-how-many years.

We beat them there last year didnt we? Like 3-0 or something..

[Viperized]

You Sir, are a massive, massive cunt.

I'm embarrassed to think my club is associated with people like you.

2-0, 10 men. What were the odds of us winning?

Honestly, Man United look unstoppable in the league and I assumed the worst since we were losing.

So the fact I was wrong makes me a massive cunt? (I'm pretty sure had we lost you would not have posted that message) But who cares? I'm glad I was wrong.

Please do tell me this though - exactly what part of my post bothered you so much? Or was it the fact that the post was made by ME?

[Viperized]

It's not even the fact that he says his team will lose, he can somehow predict how many trophies Arsenal will win by their half-time results (only if they are not winning, of course). :laugh:
"Can't see us winning now. This looks more likely to be another trophyless season."

I've bolded the key words here for you.

Like Stella, it seems like you have a good wank over every post I make.

[Stella Artois]

Viperized just do yourself a favour and disconnect your Internet.

[Viperized]

Just as I expected - you completely avoided my question.

[AgentZero]

van persie looks slightly rusty.

[somegooner]

We beat them there last year didnt we? Like 3-0 or something..

3-1 in the FA cup. I meant league win. I know that we beat them in the FA Cup.

EDIT: It's our first league win there since 2002.

[Pierre]

Can someone tell me where the fuck Denilson's gone?!!

He can take up the left side of midfield i reckon... he's just fallen off the radar...

[ThierryHenry14]

He's injured I think..

[vanNistelrooy]

I don't ask much of you Gooners, but I ask this.

PLEASE KNOCK THE BINDIPPERS OUT OF THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE.

That is all.

[AgentZero]

I don't ask much of you Gooners, but I ask this.

PLEASE KNOCK THE BINDIPPERS OUT OF THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE.

That is all.
Quoted in agreement. But then lose on the weekend..ta.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Arsenal need to win the first leg because if the score is level and we go to Anfield, I feel we need to be in front for the 2nd leg because Liverpool are very good at home.

Also, if we are eg. 1/2-0 up, then we can play 4-5-1 and hit Liverpool on the counter in the 2nd leg.

That would be ideal situation for us; if we concede an away goal in 1st leg, we really are doomed.

What are your thoughts on tonights game?

Please Discuss....

[Rambo]

Of course a win is what you want to have going into the 2nd leg, but you guys would probably give them another footballing lesson at Anfield again.

[Dundon's]

Score lines I'd settle for

0-0 1-0 2-0 3-1 in favor of the Arsenal obviously.

1-1 2-2 2-1 are all well dodgy.

I'm not even going to entertain a Liverpool win right now.

[AgentZero]

i would like to place good money on van persie scoring first.

[Dundon's]

Well the kid has already broken his duck since his return so that could be a blessing.

Any team news?

[ThierryHenry14]

Arsenal, meanwhile, could start with Theo Walcott as they seek to get a positive result.

"Theo has made a big impact every time he has come on at the moment," said manager Arsene Wenger. "I will use him sometimes with him coming on, and at other times I will start with him.

"We will see. The first game [against Liverpool] will decide a lot."

Bacary Sagna (ankle), Johan Djourou (groin), Tomas Rosicky (hamstring) and leg-break victim Eduardo are all absent from the squad.

Source:http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/02042008/58/champions-league-arsenal-liverpool-team-news.html

[Viperized]

I think its pretty obvious Liverpool will come to us to play for the draw. It will be very important to try and keep the clean sheet.

If the final result ends up being 0-0, I'll be content with that. We can then kill them at Anfield by scoring an away goal.

A win obviously, would be fantastic. But I'd prefer 0-0 than 2-1 to us.

[Cobinho]

I think its pretty obvious Liverpool will come to us to play for the draw. It will be very important to try and keep the clean sheet.

If the final result ends up being 0-0, I'll be content with that. We can then kill them at Anfield by scoring an away goal.

A win obviously, would be fantastic. But I'd prefer 0-0 than 2-1 to us.
Why?

[Stella Artois]

Because of the away goal?

I'd much rather go there knowing a score draw or more is good enough for us.

[Cobinho]

Because of the away goal?

I'd much rather go there knowing a score draw or more is good enough for us.

Even if you did concede an away goal you would have a goal advantage with a 2-1 victory, so you could lose at Anfield and go through. With a 0-0 you would have to avoid defeat in the second leg.

Basically 2-1 > 0-0

[nikos24]

Trying to avoid defeat as an objective through out a game will be extremely nerve-wracking, especially knowing that one goal is enough to lose to.

Away goals are doubled in these legs. If Arsenal can manage to not let Liverpool score a precious away goal, it's advantage for them regardless of the result.

Let's say it's a 2-1 win for Arsenal, in the next leg, all Liverpool can do is score in the last 10 minutes and then defend until the final whistle.

Like Viper and Stella, I prefer a 0-0 than 2-1.

[Joel]

I can tell you one thing - Liverpool will score at Anfield.

I think your team should try and get a 2-0 scoreline, because even 1-0 and 2-1 is not safe enough.

I don't know what comes over them on European nights, but I am pretty sure, that you will realise that they are not the same side that you play 2 times in the league season.

I'll be hoping you win though, well, our game is on at the same time, so I probably won't be thinking about your game, but I do hope you win.

[ThierryHenry14]

But we would all prefer 2-0 or 1-0 win..

[Stella Artois]

Even if you did concede an away goal you would have a goal advantage with a 2-1 victory, so you could lose at Anfield and go through. With a 0-0 you would have to avoid defeat in the second leg.

Basically 2-1 > 0-0

We'd only be able to go through if we lost 3-2 - or by 4-3, etc.

That's hardly like to happen at Anfield.

Let's not forget we drew 0-0 with Milan in the first leg and that didn't exactly affect us too much, did it?

[fick]

But at 0-0, surely the same would apply. Return leg, Liverpool score one with 10 mins to go & then defend...

I'm not seeing the difference. With the Pool's slightly iffy looking defence your should push for 2 or 3 tonight.

[Dundon's]

To be honest Fick the only good result for us if Liverpool did score tonight might be 3-1, even at that conceding an early goal at anfield could knock the shit out of us with the pool then only needing a late winner to steal it.

0-0 1-0 2-0 all the way.

I can't believe this game is on in a few hours now, have we ever player them with as much at stake in recent years?

Micheal Thomas springs to mind.

[fick]

If you can mark Torres round the box & close Gerrard down early rather than leaving him to wander 20-25 yards out like most teams do, then i don't really see where their threat comes from unless they play Crouch (not a joke btw).

[Dundon's]

Crouch will start Saturday I'd say, their back 4 I'm not sure of but that will be the front players tonight.

Bable Torres Kuyt
.......Gerrard......
Alonso....Mash

[fick]

Like i say, except Torres & Gerrard, the threat is limited. The big Argie has only hit the target once, Babel & Kuyt are not goalscorers and Alonso isn't know for even trying.

The Arse have more otpions. I just hope you don't use Bendy, he just doesn't seem to fit in your attack somehow.

[Dundon's]

All I know is if we play with the same heart as we did against Bolton 2nd half we won't go too wrong. Hopefully turn of events will carry us on through the rest of the season.

Sagna is a bad loss though, we are seriously going to miss him.

[Stella Artois]

Crouch will start Saturday I'd say, their back 4 I'm not sure of but that will be the front players tonight.

Bable Torres Kuyt
.......Gerrard......
Alonso....Mash

Spot on. I'd be amazed if it's anything different. They'll use Kuyt to double up on Hleb and Clichy and Mascherano will be his usually self kicking people to pieces and getting away with it.

Apparently that's a skill.

[Keyser Soze]

You're right, Mascherano has no talent man. :rolleyes:

Anyways, I'll be cheering on Arsenal - as many games as possible please. Although I'm not too bothered as I'd love for us to get revenge over Liverpool.

Either way, Liverpool will be sure to try and make these ties as dull as possible!

[Stella Artois]

That's not what I said, man.

Come on, man. Use your brain, man.

Alternatively fuck off out our thread. ;o

[Keyser Soze]

That's not what I said, man.

Come on, man. Use your brain, man.

Alternatively fuck off out our thread. ;o
Heh... no way, man.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Are you a Chelsea fan??

If you are, bog off and post in the chelsea thread...

[Keyser Soze]

Think I'll put my money where my mouth is and whack a fiver on Arsenal to win by 1 goal. If anyone can break down Liverpool, it'd have to be Arsenal. If you somehow manage to lose tonight though, for me, the tie is as good as over.
Are you a Chelsea fan??

If you are, bog off and post in the chelsea thread...
Lol... shut up little boy, I probably contribute more to this thread than you do. :rolleyes:

[ThierryHenry14]

The expected line ups
http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/1774/lineupzc9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Source:http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/champions-league/2007-2008/arsenal-liverpool-229682.html

[Don Sweey]

Destroy them.

[ThierryHenry14]

1-0

oh 1-1

[Guillermo]

:doh:

To be honest though, I can definitely see you scoring at Anfield.

[vanNistelrooy]

Better hope that goes down as an own goal. I'd hate to have to admit my team conceded to Dirk Kuyt!

[ThierryHenry14]

Van Persie injured again???

[Zoolander]

That was hilarious from Bendtner.

[AgentZero]

great piece of defending by bendtner there:doh: :doh:

[Viperized]

Advantage Liverpool. It seems like we like to make things difficult for ourselves.

Van Persie injured again???
Nope, it was a tactical substitution according to the BBC. Pointless sub. Why on earth was Van Persie taken off?

Hleb was pretty poor tonight. He has suffered a dip in form lately. When he doesn't play well, it seems like most of our team doesn't play particularly well. The fact he refuses to shoot annoys the hell out of me.

And Bendtner... :\

[ThierryHenry14]

According to sky sports news they said he looked like he was injured..

We will have to wait..

[Viperized]

Injured again? Just brilliant.

Anyway, is anyone tired of Eboue? He is making me sick game by game. His antics are very annoying and has gone downhill since being introduced to the team back in 2006.

[Keyser Soze]

He's clearly the weak link in your team; aswell as being an absolute disgusting player/person. Very average player.

[ThierryHenry14]

He is a bit shite now..

[vanNistelrooy]

NOW? When was he good.

What's wrong with Tomas, anyway?

[ThierryHenry14]

Like 2006 or 2005 that was his best season(s) at the club..

[Viperized]

NOW? When was he good.

What's wrong with Tomas, anyway?

"April 1, 2008
Tomas Rosicky

There is no immediate return in sight for Rosicky who was last seen limping off in the early stages of the match with Newcastle on January 26. "Personally I don't know when he will be back," said Wenger. "We miss him yes he is a big player and has a fantastic spirit. We have missed his talent. I can not really give positive news about his injury. It is strange injury but not a bad one."

I think it is safe to say we won't see him at all this season.

[Don Sweey]

We're being linked with Eboue :crymore:

[martin_cranie]

Anyway, is anyone tired of Eboue? He is making me sick game by game. His antics are very annoying and has gone downhill since being introduced to the team back in 2006.

He's woeful in midfield but I still think he's a good/very good full-back. In view of that, and the promise he showed in midfield during pre-season, I would give him another season to see if he can rise to the challenge. However, taking into account the fact that at his age his rather petulant mentality is unlikely to change, I would not bat an eyelid if Wenger sold him.

We lacked diversity and dynamism in midfield for spells of the game, however we really did create chances that should have been taken. The little arsehole, Kuyt, should have been sent off for his foul on Hleb. Bendtner's miss was a tad ridiculous too. Flamini, Toure, and Senderos should have prevented Liverpool's goal.

A lot of our problems stemmed, I think, from a noticeable desire from most of our midfield to keep the ball away from Eboue - can't say I blame them - so it was unsurprising that we got bogged down on the left all the time.

On the plus side, Liverpool didn't really bring anything to the game aside from defensive grit. Almunia made one good save and that was pretty much his nights work.

I'm confident we can score at Anfield, but we have to diversify our attacking play and take our chances. Having van Persie and Rosicky back would be a dream.

[Usul]

Eboue is a disgrace on legs.

[pistolpete]

I cant think of an Arsenal player in recent times that i have disliked as much as Eboue,This season he has contributed 1 assist all season (vs Newcastle away) no goals.

What really concerns me is that he seems to be 1st or 2nd choice and is virtually guaranteed a game due to our injuries all season.

Is it time to consider RVP a backup and buy someone (or use Eduardo when fit) as a first choice forward seeing as in the last 3 years he has played less than half a season in each?

[Nifty1Pound50]

I felt tonight was all about two teams playing some of the most intense football I've seen in a long time. I really got the impression that every touch, bit of control, pass, shot and tackle mattered.

As a result, perhaps the football suffered slightly, with little clear-cut chances forged overall. However, if anyone deserved to win it, it was Arsenal - not only did we have a certain penalty turned down, we had the game's best non-scoring chance (Bendtner on the line!).

Though I would've preferred to win 2-1 (which I think would have been the fair scoreline - well, 1-0, but never mind), I think 1-1 makes our task in the second leg more focused, and - perhaps - easier.

There's nothing worse than going out unsure of what is expected of you.

[Dundon's]

It pains me to talk right now so I'll hold back on the rant.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

If the ref was on our side, we would be 2-1 up, the ref was in a brilliant position to see that Hleb was tugged back by Kuyt.

Also, what the hell was Bendtner playing at.

After adebayor's goal, he was shite; whenever in a good position he would either fall over or just give the ball back to liverpool.

Flamini was brilliant, kept Gerrard quiet (apart from the goal which he should've prevented :realmad: )

I dont understand why Arsene can't get the boys to do some shooting practise so whenever they're in or near the box, they can shoot and make the keeper work.

Apart from Theo's wild shot (whoch the fans loved) & a couple of shots from Robin, no-one dare shoot. Theo was alright when he came on, but he lacks strength on and off the ball, the liverpool players were just shrugging him and he would fall over.

It's ridiculous. In the 2nd half, I was counting the passes as I was watching and Arsenal just kept passing it around, it's as if they are paid to pass the ball around rather than score goals, which is what football is all about.

Please Discuss....

[fick]

Woeful game between two sides that lacked control. Of the two Arsenal were the better & deserved to win, but I can't remember the last time I saw the Arse so poor in their pass & move + was Cesc supposed to be playing the holding midfield role?. For too long in the game players seemed to make little effort to create space. Shame as I had high hopes for some real entertainment.

Finally, and as I alluded to yesterday, Bendtner does not fit in the Arsenal system. He was quite frankly clueless. The goal line clearance proved that.

[Stella Artois]

Woeful game between two sides that lacked control. Of the two Arsenal were the better & deserved to win, but I can't remember the last time I saw the Arse so poor in their pass & move + was Cesc supposed to be playing the holding midfield role?. For too long in the game players seemed to make little effort to create space. Shame as I had high hopes for some real entertainment.

Finally, and as I alluded to yesterday, Bendtner does not fit in the Arsenal system. He was quite frankly clueless. The goal line clearance proved that.

It was anything but woeful. If anything this game highlighted the massive gulf in class between the two teams. Rather than sit back and defend, we went for the win whilst Liverpool - after having scored - spent the entire game clinging on for the draw.

Bendtner being unable to get out of the way of a shot means he is clueless? :rolleyes:

I know you're an arrogant Manc, but any chance of some genuine though and reason going into your posts? Would be nice.

[Cobinho]

It was anything but woeful. If anything this game highlighted the massive gulf in class between the two teams. Rather than sit back and defend, we went for the win whilst Liverpool - after having scored - spent the entire game clinging on for the draw.


I agree it was not a woeful game. I disagree that the game showed a gulf class between the two sides. Its clear Liverpool chose to sit back and defend, whether they are capable of doing more remains to be seen but that tactic has put them in a good position for the game at Anfield. If you dominate them at in the second leg, that will prove your point to be correct.

[Barry]

I can understand Liverpool's system with rational thought - tough away game, going for the away goal - but with some emotion and passion, it's everything that is wrong with football. If they do this once in a while it's acceptable but they do it every time. I can't get my mind around the fact that no Liverpool fan is even complaining in the slightest.

Of course this is the view of someone who prefers good football over results almost every time, and I know that isn't the common perception of what is important to 'club' fans so bear that in mind.

[AgentZero]

The expected line ups
http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/1774/lineupzc9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Source:http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/champions-league/2007-2008/arsenal-liverpool-229682.html
thats fairly accurate..but i think its more of a 3-2-3-2 formation for arsenal.

[gollan]

@ Stella - the match wasn't woeful, Fick is an arrogant glory hunter, but Bendtner should be tied to Eboue with some barbed wire and pushed into the fuckin river. Enough already.

edit:

Does anyone remember when was the last time we scored from a goal from open play?

(last night - corner, Bolton - corner, pen, o.g.,)

I'm under the impression that this disgusting goals we are scoring, reflect our mood - it seems the guys just don't want it enough, I don't know. Could it be that Eduardo's injury affected them so badly? Or is it the short bench that's biting our asses in the twilight of the season?

[fick]

It was anything but woeful. If anything this game highlighted the massive gulf in class between the two teams. Rather than sit back and defend, we went for the win whilst Liverpool - after having scored - spent the entire game clinging on for the draw.

So you are saying Arsenal played well? The had a short spell at the beginning of the second half where they appeared to try, then reverted to the lacklustre performance of the first. Cesc didn't show, Hleb couldn't stay on his feet, Adebayor received little or no support, i won't even comment on Eboue. Your only saving grace on the night was that Liverpool were even worse.

Bendtner being unable to get out of the way of a shot means he is clueless? :rolleyes: No, if you read my post it is evidence, not the sole reason. I'll say it again, he doesn't work within the Arsenal system. He's too one dimensional and static within his role.


Edit: Cheers Gollan ;) - 29 years of Glory hunting and long may I continue.

[Stella Artois]

Admit it Flick, you didn't watch the game and you're on a wind-up? Otherwise, I fear for your sanity.

We played well, but there's only so much you can do when the opposition have 10 men behind and absolutely no inclination to attack. Bendtner was unlucky that he was unable to get out the way of the shoot, and we had a clear penalty turned down for reasons nobody can understand. We also created openings but never enough clear chances.

Cobinho: We've already dominated them at Anfield once this season, we'll do it again!

[Dragonfly]

I'm confident that we'll progress to the semis.

[AgentZero]

fick mate, its just one of those days where the world is against you. Arsenal controlled that game for 75 odd minutes, the bindippers were restricted to counter attacking with 2 players really going forwards (effectively).

[fick]

Admit it Flick, you didn't watch the game and you're on a wind-up? Otherwise, I fear for your sanity.

Sorry, i did watch the game and my opinion (for that is what it is) still stands.

We played well, but there's only so much you can do when the opposition have 10 men behind and absolutely no inclination to attack. Bendtner was unlucky that he was unable to get out the way of the shoot, and we had a clear penalty turned down for reasons nobody can understand. We also created openings but never enough clear chances.
I agree that Liverpool were very negative, but also very poor. A couple of months ago the side you had on the field last night would've opened their defence as easily as an essex girls thighs. Last night you failed, mainly i feel due to a lack of invention and for a large portion of the game, effort. I also agree the ref was remiss in not giving the penalty, especially considering his position. I still cannot say you played well.

[Viperized]

I'm confident that we'll progress to the semis.
Van Persie has a 20% chance of being fit, so this means he'll miss the next leg.

The team needs to be more direct (at a higher tempo). By this I do not mean kicking the ball long - we do this many times and fail miserably. Simply, we need to pass the ball along the ball far more quicker and shoot more often, instead of passing it sideways 10 times before trying to walk the ball in the net.

[Dragonfly]

Van Persie has a 20% chance of being fit, so this means he'll miss the next leg.

I know, but I think we've been excellent without him, so far this season. If we play 4-5-1 with Hleb floating behind Adebayor, we should dominate the game again. The wing is where we're weakest. I was thinking of either dropping Eboue to right-back, or dropping him from the side altogether, and playing Walcott and Diaby on the wings.

I just hope we don't lose anyone this Saturday.

[ThierryHenry14]

Almunia has signed a new long-term contract..
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03042008/58/premier-league-almunia-agrees-contact-extension.html

[vanNistelrooy]

Field your reserves, they enjoy spanking the bindippers at Analfield.

[Barry]

Van Persie has a 20% chance of being fit, so this means he'll miss the next leg.

The team needs to be more direct (at a higher tempo). By this I do not mean kicking the ball long - we do this many times and fail miserably. Simply, we need to pass the ball along the ball far more quicker and shoot more often, instead of passing it sideways 10 times before trying to walk the ball in the net.

Though there's only a 10 percent chance of that.

http://www.movieactors.com/freezeframes510/NakedGun5.jpeg

[Dundon's]

I can't even think of any players we can bring in that will be able to do a job against Liverpool this weekend, our squad is in bits.

Surely most of the 1st team will have to take a breather for the 3rd battle, or maybe Wenger will play the match with a strong bench like against Spurs in the semis. Diaby and Denilson would of played this game you'd of thought but now maybe Flamini and Gilberto will probs start in the middle.

Seriously though, we have no squad left.

Maybe this?....


..........Bendtner........

..........Hleb............

Theo/Song Flamini Gilberto Eboue

Just haven't a clue tbh



Discuss...

P.S. Plz I'm worried :/

[AgentZero]

walcott should start ahead of bender.

[Dragonfly]

I can't even think of any players we can bring in that will be able to do a job against Liverpool this weekend, our squad is in bits.

Surely most of the 1st team will have to take a breather for the 3rd battle, or maybe Wenger will play the match with a strong bench like against Spurs in the semis. Diaby and Denilson would of played this game you'd of thought but now maybe Flamini and Gilberto will probs start in the middle.

Seriously though, we have no squad left.

Maybe this?....


..........Bendtner........

..........Hleb............

Theo/Song Flamini Gilberto Eboue

Just haven't a clue tbh



Discuss...

P.S. Plz I'm worried :/

I'm sure we'll play a slightly weakened side on Saturday, because Liverpool are most probably going to do the same. Since all Liverpool have to play for is the Champions League, they'll want all their best players fit for Tuesday. We'll have our main defence out, but Adebayor, Hleb and maybe Fabregas won't start.

I've mentioned a few times that it would have [not "of"] been good to sign a couple of experienced players as back up. It would've definitely helped against any fatigue or lethargy, which I think has caused our slump.

[Keyser Soze]

Are you home or away?

[Dragonfly]

Home.

[mufcsean]

Another draw i reckon

[Dragonfly]

I think Boro could cause you trouble. Haven't they caused you trouble in recent seasons, or is that another team?

EDIT: Complete opposite, apparently. I wonder who I'm thinking about.

[mufcsean]

Boro used to be a pain in our arses, past 2 years haven't been any problems i dont think, but we saw what happened when you went there, they seem to save their best for the big teams. Plus theres no Vidic :no:

[Tigermen]

Boro used to be a pain in our arses, past 2 years haven't been any problems i dont think, but we saw what happened when you went there, they seem to save their best for the big teams. Plus theres no Vidic :no:

I believe they held you 1-1 at OT last season during the title run in.

[AgentZero]

yeh dont like boro they are a bogey team. But i still reckon we can get a 1-0 win

[RB14 ARSENAL]

yeh dont like boro they are a bogey team. But i still reckon we can get a 1-0 win

Agreed.

They nearly did the double over us :no: :huh:

[Viperized]

Adebayor is available, which is good news. Van Persie isn't. But I hope he is ready for Tuesday...

And I hope Eboue doesn't start. He is a clown.

[somegooner]

He started and he clowned around a lot.

[-Rafa-]

Crouch?

[somegooner]

Yeah I know. What is our defense coming to?? First Kuyt then Crouch?? I'm, getting worried. Soon we'll be conceding to Lee Donk Gook!

[Viperized]

Well I expected us to play shit, considering how weak our starting lineup is, and we have been. If we carry on like this we'll lose this game and would take a miracle to even win.

Eboue's decision making is pretty shocking. Bendtner has blown away a golden opportunity to bring us in the lead, but hasn't played well and hasn't done so for several weeks.

Our squad depth is really poor. It's hurting us.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Good goal from Crouch.

We're playing shit except Flamini. How did Eboue get into our starting lineup? He couldn't make a decision like a normal player and losses the ball every time he attempts to run forward.

[Viperized]

I think we should bring on Hleb and Adebayor pretty quickly. Our midfield has looked abysmal and for the most part of the game has struggled to string a few passes together.

It seems like opposition teams need one chance to score. Our defence needs to be tighter. I'm beginning to realise that since returning from the ACN, Toure hasn't look as assuring as before.

Btw selling Diarra was a mistake. Should've kept him. He is a class player. Unless we strengthen our weak squad (as well as getting rid of some completely average players), we can forget about challenging for the title next year, or else we'll lose it just like this year during the latter stages of the season.

[L . F . C]

Arsenal not playing too well! Please may it continue!

On the other hand, you've had some good chances to be winning.

[somegooner]

Bendtner!!!!!!

EDIT: Ade is coming on. 4-3-3 now.

EDIT 2: Guess what. Eboué's booked.

EDIT 3: Sexyness from Adebayor.

EDIT 4: Where is the fucking ref??!

[Viperized]

So much for our title chances, as if we were ever going to win it. Pretty much everything was wrong today.

[somegooner]

Viperized, when I saw that you had the last post I went :doh:!

[RB14 ARSENAL]

So much for our title chances, as if we were ever going to win it. Pretty much everything was wrong today.

What was Hleb doing !?

Alone, edge of six-yard box and just couldn't keep his concentration. That was the golden opportunity to win.

However, we got lucky after Voronin's miss, and Torres' bad communication with Gerrard.

Great substitutions Rafa :laugh:

[Dundon's]

Believe it or not this wasn't a bad result for us. The point pulls us within 5 now of Utd with them having to play us and Chel$ki, course it won't count for shit if they win tomorrow.

[Viperized]

Believe it or not this wasn't a bad result for us. The point pulls us within 5 now of Utd with them having to play us and Chel$ki, course it won't count for shit if they win tomorrow.
Don't kid yourself Dundon's.

[Dundon's]

Look at it this way, with UTD 6 points ahead and with the superior goal difference they'd of having to drop points in 3 games anyways. Before the game today we were in a worst position. If we won and Utd won it still wouldn't count for shit, so we live in hope same as before we got the point.

I'm just happy we didn't get battered going into the Champions league game to be honest, we were shocking in that first half.

[-Rafa-]

Great substitutions Rafa :laugh:
And we STILL drew with you.

[Keyser Soze]

Believe it or not this wasn't a bad result for us. The point pulls us within 5 now of Utd with them having to play us and Chel$ki, course it won't count for shit if they win tomorrow.
Even if you they somehow lose tommorow against 'Boro, and lost another 2 games against us (Arsenal and Chelsea), they'd still have superior goal difference to you so you'd need them to drop more points. That's not forgetting the fact that we'd have to slip up more aswell. I like an optimist, but you're being a bit unrealistic imo.

Edit: Wait, that doesn't work out, does it? I can't be bothered to think as it's late - but I don't think you'll catch them.

[Dundon's]

If UTD win today I'll concede we're out of it.



EDIT: Right well that looks like that then, same old bollox again, if we gave teams half the chances UTD do to score we'd end up getting thrashed every week. Seems like there's a forcefield in front of their goals. We give one chance and the opposing team seem to always take it, what the fuck is that about like?


EDIT:2 Bout time, C'MON BORO!!!!

[pistolpete]

is aliadiere on a one man crusade to ruin our chances this season?!

he played better against us at the riverside than he ever did for us, then he scores against us at home, then he misses from 2 yards against chelsea, now he misses a sitter against utd.

he is having more of a negative effect on us than he ever had a positive one for us.

Maybe its because he was always injured so we got rid of him he is out for revenge.

Frustrating.

[Dundon's]

Fair play to Boro for putting it up to them in that first half and just taking it up the ass like most other sides.

Long way to go yet but we live in hope.

[wrigh2uk]

Title chances are over simple as if Man Utd do drop points I don't see Chelski dropping any.

[-Rafa-]

Well your title chances could still be alive.

[Viperized]

Man United will probably end up winning anyway.

[Guillermo]

If you knew our record against Boro you would know we're more than likely to drop points today.

[ThierryHenry14]

2-2 at the moment..

[Dundon's]

Heartbeat city.

[AgentZero]

must blame the snow for the result...

[vanNistelrooy]

If we do slip up anymore it'll be Chelski who capitalise I'm afraid.

Snow? Really? I blame the poor defending.

[AgentZero]

snow for the finishing towards the end. On a drier pitch no doubt at least 2 of those would have given schwarzer a work out.

[vanNistelrooy]

Same could be said for Boro's chances.

Anyway, not the thread for such discussion.

[Dundon's]

I was impressed with Ali today I must admit, was Man Utd's best player by a mile.

Could this man of single handedly won them the title?

[Rambo]

Ajax And Arsenal To Join Forces?

Two of the European game’s household names, Ajax and Arsenal, are considering the possibility of working out an off-the-field partnership deal from next season, at least on terms of player transfers.

Arsène Wenger wrote in the Londoners’ match programme issued for their Premiership home game against Liverpool (1-1) that he discussed the matter with the next Ajax boss, Marco van Basten, a few days ago.

“Van Basten visited us at the training ground this week. We spoke a bit about the European Championship and about Ajax, because he is taking over there in the summer.”

“We spoke about how he wants to see the future of the club and how he wants to work there, and any similarities with our policy at Arsenal, and about whether they can take players on loan, for example.”

This would defintely benefit Arsenal.

[Dundon's]

Sounds good to me. If anyone has constantly knocked out quality young players over the years it's Ajax.

[Viperized]

Rosicky is out for the season. Nothing surprising there.

It's a real shame, because he adds a lot to the starting eleven. He has a big impact whenever on the pitch.

[Dundon's]

It's no coincidence that we played our best football with that man on the pitch. I think the loss of him cost us the title.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

Although we are able to beat any team in the league with our starting eleven, an injury to any one of our best eleven will disrupt our game. This clearly shows the lack of depth in our substitutes.

[Dundon's]

I'd go along with that. The past few months has been very telling. I think next season we won't get caught like that again.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Maybe we will be able to get Huntelaar if we make alliance with Ajax :w00t :D

I hope so :rolleyes:

[Barry]

I don't think Huntelaar would fit the system to be honest. He's not the type that Wenger would go for if I'm honest. Good news on the possible partnership though, two of my favorite teams working together is always good news.

[Keyser Soze]

I don't think Huntelaar would fit the system to be honest. He's not the type that Wenger would go for if I'm honest.
Adding that to the fact that they don't really need him.

[Tigermen]

Adding that to the fact that they don't really need him.

Don't be silly, he'll cost a lot of money and people have heard of him. And we all know that the only kinds of players Arsenal should be signing are those who cost lots of money and who we've all heard of :rolleyes:

[Viperized]

Don't be silly, he'll cost a lot of money and people have heard of him. And we all know that the only kinds of players Arsenal should be signing are those who cost lots of money and who we've all heard of :rolleyes:
I don't get it?

[Viperized]

Adding that to the fact that they don't really need him.
Van Persie cannot be trusted. He spends most of his season injured. He has had three big injuries in three seasons. That is quite worrying.

[Cobinho]

Van Persie cannot be trusted. He spends most of his season injured. He has had three big injuries in three seasons. That is quite worrying.

Harry Kewell was probably better than Van Persie when he was his age (and yes he was also better than Robbie Keane), now look at him.

[Tigermen]

I don't get it?

Just seems that most Arsenal 'fans' fixate on trophy signings. Like when we signed Eduardo everyone slagged him off cos he wasn't a big name. The same people who asked why we spent £6m on a right back they'd never heard of, etc.

[vanNistelrooy]

For one night only, I am officially supporting Arsenal FC.

COME ON YOU GOONERS!

[somegooner]

The glory hunting United fans over here in Dubai are all hoping that Liverpool win for some reason. True gloryhunters.

[Don Sweey]

I've turned on for thirty seconds and you're ahead :w00t

[Miggy]

Lovely goal. Let's see more.

[somegooner]

How did the goal happen?? Don Sweey, you might be our good luck charm so keep watching. You saw the game against Milan and we won, you flip on for this and we score!!

[Don Sweey]

How did the goal happen?? Don Sweey, you might be our good luck charm so keep watching. You saw the game against Milan and we won, you flip on for this and we score!!

The only way I'll watch two English teams is for the final five minutes of normal time, the final five minutes of extra-time and penalties.

It was a very good goal and hopefully you can get a second just to solidify your position in the tie at the present time.

EDIT: Oh dear, Livescore says 1-1 :no:

[somegooner]

Why do you hate English teams Sweey??

[vanNistelrooy]

The glory hunting United fans over here in Dubai are all hoping that Liverpool win for some reason. True gloryhunters.
If you're following Liverpool you're anything but a gloryhunter.

[somegooner]

If you're following Liverpool you're anything but a gloryhunter.

I don't get what you said. United fans hoping Liverpool win. Something is wrong here.

EDIT: Oh shit! Flamini is injured! It means Calamity Bert will play against United. How does the injury look guys??

[vanNistelrooy]

You said they're gloryhunters, but they're following Liverpool? Ala not a decent team.

Dammit Gilberto is on.

Wahoo Gilberto may play on Sunday!

[Don Sweey]

Why do you hate English teams Sweey??

I don't like the style of play in the league and throughout the 1990s I was surrounded by clueless people who thought, through their lack of knowledge, that the English league was far superior to other European leagues. They, along with TV presenters and "pundits" backed this up by not having a clue about any foreign team they came up against bar the great Milan side I was lucky enough to see so often. I hate ignorant people - such as most of the present English media and the likes of Richard Keys, Andy Gray and Jamie Redknapp who have absolutely no knowledge of foreign teams beyond the ridiculously obvious and yet appear to think the opposing side in each case will never be able to contain the "world class" English team they'll be facing. They kiss the arses of any foreigners who play here - Zola for example (only Chelsea fans can really get away with that and even some of them struggle with the undeniable fact that Baggio was twice the player Zola ever was) - and year after year since the early 1990s I've had to endure the same old crap.

Hope that makes sense :erm:

If one of the big four from England had to win the CL, I'd rather Manchester United did simply out of my respect for Alex Ferguson and his professionalism when coming up against Milan over the years. Liverpool would be my fifth choice, behind the fourth choice of hoping the world imploded.

Back on pundits for a moment, I have high regard for Ray Wilkins who understands Italian football and will speak ill of it when it is deserved rather than for the sake of some old stereotype. Alan McInally understands German football so respect to him and Gerry Armstrong, not English, has very good knowledge of the Spanish league.

[somegooner]

Ok Zissou. Got your point.

Yours too Sweey. It's just that we posted at the same time. No disrespect intended. And yes, what you said made sense.

[vanNistelrooy]

If one of the big four from England had to win the CL, I'd rather Manchester United did simply out of my respect for Alex Ferguson and his professionalism when coming up against Milan over the years. Liverpool would be my fifth choice, behind the fourth choice of hoping the world imploded.
:laugh:

[somegooner]

Is there any chance of getting to see the goals at HT??

[JoeyM]

I'm so fucking sick of Almunia.

[vanNistelrooy]

What has he done wrong? Are you blaming him for the corner that led for the goal?

[JoeyM]

What has he done wrong? Are you blaming him for the corner that led for the goal?

That and for rushing out in the buildup to the corner so he could clear a ball into touch that Toure clearly had covered. Clown.

edit - and for his general shitness throughout the season

[Miggy]

I still can't understand how Senderos starts.

[vanNistelrooy]

Because he looks like a blowup doll? That and he always has a worried look on his face.

[Miggy]

Because he looks like a blowup doll? That and he always has a worried look on his face.

Tell me about it. It's a look of "I aint got a clue".:huh:

[Don Sweey]

I've been watching for 90 seconds and you've scored again. I'm sticking with it now.

[Miggy]

What a game.

[Don Sweey]

What the fuck? I just switched over to the Chelsea game and after watching for fifteen seconds they scored.

What the hell is going on with me tonight? :huh:

[Miggy]

You let me down, guys.

[Don Sweey]

That was extremely naive at the end. Shouldn't have been playing it long. For those three minutes they needed to keep possession and produce crosses or shooting opportunities. Sorry to see you guys go out to them.

[vanNistelrooy]

Not a penalty in my opinion.

How the commentator can say "the penalty isn't so much of an issue now" after Babel scored is fucking beyond me.

[Viperized]

Fucking hell. I feel so distraught. :(

How the fuck did we concede the penalty right after scoring?

Babel is a cheating diving cunt. They were given a penalty while we were denied a clear-cut penalty last week. Ouch.

[Original?]

Not a penalty in my opinion.

How the commentator can say "the penalty isn't so much of an issue now" after Babel scored is fucking beyond me.

It was not a penalty. Of course it made a difference, and the commentators were generally a disgrace. Senderos is so far below Arsenal standard it's untrue. His defensive awareness and concentration just aren't up to the standard required at this level.

I'm bitterly disappointed as it means I have to watch more of the pathetic football Liverpool play instead of the enjoyable technical football of Arsenal. Though, what a magnificent run by Walcott, it's just a shame he was robbed of its significance.

[Rambo]

That George Weah-esque run from Walcott was epic.

Now we have to witness yet another boring Arsenal/Chelsea encounter.

Edit: I mean Liverpool/Chelsea.

[Original?]

That George Weah-esque run from Walcott was epic.

Now we have to witness yet another boring Arsenal/Chelsea encounter.

Liverpool/Chelsea you mean, and yes I nearly cried when the commentator suggested that... those games are so bad it's painful.

[vanNistelrooy]

Walcott raped they're average defense.

Commentator: "Ryan, do you think it was a penalty?"
Babel: "Yes I think so, they pulled me a little bit."

So them pulling you "a little bit" made your fucking legs give way?

[JoeyM]

softest penalty of all time, Senderos is awful, Almunia is an embarrassment (PES quality goal keeping for the 4th, not that it matters), Adebayor decided to stop playing after half an hour, Gallas raped in the air again,

what an awful way to go out

[Viperized]

Senderos is so far below Arsenal standard it's untrue. His defensive awareness and concentration just aren't up to the standard required at this level.
Indeed.

[Joel]

What is ironic is that in the first leg, you had a CLEAR CUT penalty decision waved away.

But now you see how Liverpool get away with a lot of shit in these so called "famous European nights at Anfield".

[vanNistelrooy]

"famous European nights at Anfield" = "referee bottling it infront of the KOP"

[mufcsean]

What a game. So gutted for you.

What a run by Walcott, why he doesn't start more is beyond me.

Adebayor, hadn't scored a Champions league goal before the 2nd leg against Milan, now has 3 in 3 :laugh:

I don't think it was a penalty either, the Hleb one in the first leg was way more of a penalty.

[BarnDoor]

Jamiest bastards of all time. The sooner the kop is demolished with the fans still inside the better. We can only thank god he did his part at Hillsborough

[Dragonfly]

That fucking hurts. I cannot believe they got the penalty. There was far less contact on Babel than there was last week. That has to be the fastest turn of emotions I've ever experienced. I jumped up in the air then fell back and bounced off my wardrobe and landed on the arm of my chair. Then seconds after the replay they get a dodgy penalty.

I agree about Senderos. Just when I was starting to think he's proving me wrong, he has a nightmare performance like that.

I'm still shaking.

I'm looking forward to seeing Walcott play more next season, if he can produce more class like that.

[Jake Small]

The game was Arsenal's to lose, "dodgy" penalty or not. The pen could've been called either way, but I don't agree at all with calling it a dive. Toure's arms were all over Babel.

Anyway fact is Arsenal were playing spectacularly in the first half, but Pool responded and Arsenal could not keep it up in the second, unfortunately. Senderos was kind of brutal, at fault for both earlier goals, but still, Arsenal seemed to have a lot of difficulty getting anything together going forward in the 2nd half...

[Viperized]

What a game. So gutted for you.

What a run by Walcott, why he doesn't start more is beyond me.
Yep - would be such a massive improvement over Eboue, who hardly does anything positive. Again he showed the genius he is by not passing the ball to Adebayor while he was at the byline.

[Charlie: 9]

Disgraceful.

I was goin crazy when Theo went on that run and for Yabadabadoo to bag it, I nearly fainted (I was watching it with Liverpool fans and I love to get them going).

But then Boobel dived and ruined what was going to be a good night. Plus Im out some money, not much though, as I had Arsenal to win.

Ref should be sacked.

[Keyser Soze]

Just seen the highlights; Babel didn't dive, but it wasn't a penalty imo. Walcott's run was incredible, let's hope he can do this more often for England's sake.

[AgentZero]

that sjust football isnt it a clear pen denied at emirates and a soft one given against at anfield.

[Stella Artois]

This probably sounds bitter, but I don't give a fuck.

Two absolutely awful referring decisions have cost us this tie.

CUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUNTS.

[Original?]

Correct, it wasn't a dive. Yet it certainly wasn't a penalty either. There's no way to defend this victory, it was entirely undeserved, unfortunately this is just another example of bad refereeing decisions changing the outcome. Adebayor's goal, and more pointedly Walcott's assist, were more than deserving of settling this tie and that has been robbed, not by Babel, but by the referee.

[Nturtle]

Gutted...just awful refereeing...and Toure's arms were nowhere near babel btw Jake Small...Babel should watch a few replays...before he opens his mouth.

I'm just astounded that we failed to even hold out for 30 seconds, and the glee on Gerrard's face just was so undeserved...when will Arsenal get a break from refs? We have one of the worst players in Eboue I must admit to screw us up by falling all over the place...but hey...not everyone is diving!!

What a way to go out...

[fick]

Compared to last week’s game, this was an exiting encounter between 2 teams that looked like they wanted to score. On the whole I’d say the Arse were the better side barring Senderos, who should be shot and Adebayor, whose touch seemed off and wasn’t helped by a lack of proper support. Seeing long balls played to a sole striker especially by a team who are so good with the pass & move game is most frustrating. Would’ve liked to have see Wenger put his cock on the block & start with Walcott, his input as a sub certainly warranted inclusion.

Penalty or not? I’d say not. We’ve all seen contentious decisions this season, this is just another to add to the list.

[Jonny2J]

My Arsenal have had some terrible decisions against them in recent weeks.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

From these three games against Liverpool, it seems that they have gotten the best out of us. Not only did they crashed our title hopes League but also getting knocked us out in the Champions League. What could be worse?

[AgentZero]

losing on sunday.....

[RB14 ARSENAL]

http://www.arsenal.com/article.asp?thisNav=News&article=489997&lid=NewsHeadline&Title=European+giants+lined+up +for+Emirates+Cup

Another Emirates Cup

Featuring:

Arsenal
Real Madrid
Juventus
Hamburg

Should be interesting......

[Dundon's]

Sickened with that outcome, cruel game football.

[Stella Artois]

My Arsenal have had some terrible decisions against them in recent weeks.

It sounds bitter if I'd have said it, but it's true. I honestly cannot remember many favourable decisions going for us. I can certainly remember the bad decisions, although that always tends to be what happens anyway!

[Dundon's]

Regardless of winning fuck all this season I still believe we surprised a lot of people. If we had any luck at all things would be different on both fronts league and champions league.

Injury after injury didn't help us either.

I think we're about 3 good players away from having an excellent squad.

[ThierryHenry14]

Yeah I agree , most critics said we would not be a top 4 club because we lost Henry and then they started to say that Wenger and Fabregas were going to leave..

[somegooner]

I'm not 100% satisfied this season but I think that it was good in the sense that we know our weak points.

[Viperized]

I'm not 100% satisfied this season but I think that it was good in the sense that we know our weak points.
We had weak points last season but still haven't addressed them.

[martin_cranie]

We've addressed several, I would say. Last season when we lost a game, we generally deserved too. This season our grit and ability to grind something out has improved no end. The fact that we're still in the title race so late in the season is a nice reflection of that, I would say. If we carry on progressing at this rate, we may well be the team to beat in a season or two. Patience is a virtue.

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

We were definitely much better compared to last season.

[Viperized]

Yep that is definitely true, but last season we had a weak squad and now we still have a weak squad. We are also in a dire need of a winger.

[Barry]

It's still a young squad and they can only improve in years to come. And they will, knowing Wenger.

[Jake Small]

If Rosicky and VP had remained fit you'd have the title I think. Your squad depth is kind of shit compared to Chelsea and Man U, unfortunately..


Don't really even know what to say about RVP, will he ever be the same? He looked like he was ready to do wonders just before he got injured.

[Nturtle]

This bloke in the mirroe slaughters us & Wenger...what a plonker!

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/2008/04/12/3-games-when-wenger-myths-were-exposed-89520-20380458/

[Jonny2J]

I never knew Rafa was manager of Sevilla mind. :rolleyes:

[Ronaldo_is_fat]

I smell a Liverpool fan......

[somegooner]

http://www.arsenal.com/article.asp?thisNav=News&article=490220&lid=NewsHeadline&Title=Wenger+-+My+target+is+an+experienced+p layer


So who do you guys think It'll be??

[RB14 ARSENAL]

http://www.arsenal.com/article.asp?thisNav=News&article=490220&lid=NewsHeadline&Title=Wenger+-+My+target+is+an+experienced+p layer


So who do you guys think It'll be??

Surely we need more than 1 experienced player??

Imo, We need a winger (preferrably both sides), Striker, and defender (central)

[Viperized]

One player?

Almunia is merely a decent backup. Nothing more, nothing less. Senderos cannot be trusted since painfully obvious he makes at least one mistake per match, and we are short of a winger (Rosicky is injured 24/7)

We signed three players last summer, so perhaps there is a chance it could happen again.

I don't think we should worry too much about a striker yet - we've got Eduardo, Van Persie, Adebayor, Bendtner and Walcott.

[Bammers05]

I'd be quite happy if it's a centre-back that Wenger signs, because Senderos has cost us far too many results this season. Having said that Song and Djourou both look capable of covering at centre-back, so it would probably be better if Wenger signed a winger, as I can't stand Eboué as a right-midfielder and I'd much prefer to see him as a backup right-back behind Sagna, as I feel he plays much better there.

As for a goalkeeper, I actually think Almunia's a pretty decent first-choice. Admittedly he makes a few mistakes, but I think this season, he's done enough to at least earn his starting position, however I would like to see Wenger bring in another keeper as backup, especially with Lehmann likely to leave.

[Yossi]

You need a winger or maybe two (proper ones, with pace, who can go past the full back and get a cross in from the byline) because Eboue is not Arsenal quality, a centre back to cover for Gallas and Toure because Senderos is clearly not good enough and the others are not proven. Maybe you need another striker because Eduardo is out for a while, Bendtner and Walcott are decent but not proven nor clinical, and that leaves only Adebayor and van Persie. Plus a keeper, because although Almunia has been quite solid, Lehmann is leaving and you can do better.

And one more thing, Kieran Gibbs needs much more development, mainly physical, to be ready for even Championship football.

[JoeyM]

I'll go nuts if we don't sign a keeper. Almunia let's in so many ridiculously soft goals without making the spectacular saves to make up for them. No matter what defender we sign our back four isn't going to be solid with that clown in goal.

You need a winger or maybe two (proper ones, with pace, who can go past the full back and get a cross in from the byline) because Eboue is not Arsenal quality, a centre back to cover for Gallas and Toure because Senderos is clearly not good enough and the others are not proven. Maybe you need another striker because Eduardo is out for a while, Bendtner and Walcott are decent but not proven nor clinical, and that leaves only Adebayor and van Persie. Plus a keeper, because although Almunia has been quite solid, Lehmann is leaving and you can do better.

Agree with this, except for the proper winger part. It'd be nice to have a player like that to add some variation, but I think we've shown this season that with Fabregas, Hleb, and Rosicky fit we can pick most teams apart just fine. Our problem is that the players behind them offer absolutely nothing. Once one of those three are out we depend on two players to create all of our chances.

Like I said, a true winger would be nice, but at this point I'd gladly take another winger-cum-attacking midfielder.

[Viperized]

I'd be quite happy if it's a centre-back that Wenger signs, because Senderos has cost us far too many results this season. Having said that Song and Djourou both look capable of covering at centre-back, so it would probably be better if Wenger signed a winger, as I can't stand Eboué as a right-midfielder and I'd much prefer to see him as a backup right-back behind Sagna, as I feel he plays much better there.

As for a goalkeeper, I actually think Almunia's a pretty decent first-choice. Admittedly he makes a few mistakes, but I think this season, he's done enough to at least earn his starting position, however I would like to see Wenger bring in another keeper as backup, especially with Lehmann likely to leave.
Almunia hasn't exactly been brilliant this season. As Joey has said, he has left in too many soft goals and one 'okay' season doesn't make it acceptable for him to remain as our first choice keeper.

We have been linked with Schweinsteiger (though rumours mean nothing). Wouldn't mind him to be honest. Has a superb long shot on him and is capable of scoring goals - exactly what we need.

[ThierryHenry14]

Line ups according to Yahoo/Eurosport..
http://img359.imageshack.us/img359/8663/arsenalmanuqf7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[mufcsean]

Both look correct, Senderos at the back

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/29/100276794_548c83c4eb.jpg

[vanNistelrooy]

I thought squads etc weren't announced until half an hour before kick off (unless the manager was being a cocky shite and playing mind games).

[ThierryHenry14]

Yahoo/Eurosport always predict the squads before the game..

There usally quite accurate.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Hi,

I have just thought of something that may be good for the team. I have addressed this in an e-mail to Mr Wenger (TH14 gave me his e-mail address)

Hello Mr Wenger,

I am a proud follower of Arsenal FC and I have just thought of a possible line-up that may benefit the team.

Because Bakary Sagna is injured, and Emmanuel Eboue played at right back before Sagna, can't Eboue play at right back until Bakary returns ???

If that happened, then Kolo Toure and William Gallas could play together in the centre, this would make the defence a lot more tighter and stronger.

If Eboue played right-back, then Theo Walcott could play down the right wing. Theo is my favourite player and he did play very well against Liverpool in the Champions League. His individual run was incredible in the build up to the 2nd goal for us.

I hope you consider this possible line-up change. No matter what, I will be always behind the team and cheering on the Arsenal.

Best wishes,

Robert Berry,
Arsenal Supporter

What do you guys think ???

Please Discuss...

[vanNistelrooy]

1) If you just sent that I think Arsene has other things to worry about before checking his emails.

and

2) The email is a good few weeks too late!

[Sully]

Hi,

I have just thought of something that may be good for the team. I have addressed this in an e-mail to Mr Wenger (TH14 gave me his e-mail address)

Hello Mr Wenger,

I am a proud follower of Arsenal FC and I have just thought of a possible line-up that may benefit the team.

Because Bakary Sagna is injured, and Emmanuel Eboue played at right back before Sagna, can't Eboue play at right back until Bakary returns ???

If that happened, then Kolo Toure and William Gallas could play together in the centre, this would make the defence a lot more tighter and stronger.

If Eboue played right-back, then Theo Walcott could play down the right wing. Theo is my favourite player and he did play very well against Liverpool in the Champions League. His individual run was incredible in the build up to the 2nd goal for us.

I hope you consider this possible line-up change. No matter what, I will be always behind the team and cheering on the Arsenal.

Best wishes,

Robert Berry,
Arsenal Supporter

What do you guys think ???

Please Discuss...

:laugh: