Arsenal

[Meyyappan]

Wish he could play DMF as his best position.

[Yossi]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't he a winger for Cardiff?

[TheBishop]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't he a winger for Cardiff?

No idea but he can play anywhere in midfield and full back.

[Dragonfly]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't he a winger for Cardiff?

I think that's where he played most, but he's been touted as being versatile and being able to play anywhere in midfield and as supporting striker.

[DJ Clue]

I think CM.

[Meyyappan]

I hope DM and did Cesc start featuring in the Prem for us at about the smae age?

[I.N Extasy]

I believe, yes.

[Meyyappan]

Well better not get too hopeful as all 17 year olds are not going to be Cesc Fabregases.

[TheBishop]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_4344831,00.html
Gallas being out will give Silvestre a deserved chance, Eboue in for Sagna at right back, where he plays better anyway and Bendtner out means Vela will most likely feature. Glad Diaby is back in contention.

I think the Everton game is more important than Fenerbahce, cos we should qualify with 2 home games left.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Interesting article: http://www.thetimes.co.za/Sport/Article.aspx?id=865466

Your thoughts?

[DJ Clue]

Fabregas - I am 100 per cent behind the boss

Cesc Fabregas is “100 per cent” behind his manager and young team-mates, believing they have the collective quality to challenge for the title once more.

The Spaniard returned to Arsenal’s training ground on Thursday afternoon with a broken nose sustained on international duty over the past week.

However the injury is unlikely to stop the 21-year-old playing against Everton on Saturday. Fabregas is the lynchpin of the Arsenal midfield and Wenger’s faithful lieutenant in a very young side.

Likewise, the self-proclaimed ‘veteran’ has unshakeable belief in the man who signed him from Barcelona five years ago - especially his confidence in younger players.

“Arsène has built an unbelievable squad here,” said Fabregas.

“We have great spirit and I have complete trust in the manager’s policy.

“Arsène is the best at giving youngsters a chance. No-one else comes close to him for that. He doesn’t care how old you are, as long as you are good enough, and has the confidence to give young players a chance.

“Anything said to the contrary is simply not true and I would like to reiterate to all Arsenal supporters that I am 100 per cent behind the team and the manager.

“The future is bright,” Fabregas went on. “Players like Denilson, Theo Walcott and Samir Nasri have shown real class this season and I’m positive we have the quality to challenge for the title.

“Yes we do have a lot of young players, but they have all shown they can handle it at the top level in the Premier League and Champions League.

“It’s hard to imagine I’m one of the oldest players at the Club now but it will be a privilege to help guide some of these youngsters through.

“We’re the envy of every other club and it’s so exciting to be a part of that.”

[TheBishop]

Interesting article: http://www.thetimes.co.za/Sport/Article.aspx?id=865466

Your thoughts?

Pointless article. Rooney was only comparing Belarus' passing style to Arsenal, not the quality of the team. We've played the same style under Wenger for 12 years, it's never gonna change. It worked for 3 league titles so people use it as an excuse when were not winning anything.

As for Fabregas, i'm getting tired of hearing all these quotes. One week he's praising the team, the next he's criticising. Just play football.

[Meyyappan]

Pointless article. Rooney was only comparing Belarus' passing style to Arsenal, not the quality of the team. We've played the same style under Wenger for 12 years, it's never gonna change. It worked for 3 league titles so people use it as an excuse when were not winning anything.

As for Fabregas, i'm getting tired of hearing all these quotes. One week he's praising the team, the next he's criticising. Just play football.

Shut up all direct quotes from Fabregas are positive of the club,just give me a link where he talks negatively.

[Miggy]

Read the link that TheBishop quoted.

[DJ Clue]

Good match yesterday, 3-1, Nasri ftw! :happy:

[Usul]

Shut up all direct quotes from Fabregas are positive of the club,just give me a link where he talks negatively.
Be quiet, insolent one. I'm growing tired of your nonsense.

[AgentZero]

this mildly off topic but for next season surely Cesc or Denilson should get number 10, it doesnt look right being at the back.

[Meyyappan]

Cesc wont swap his number for any other because he has taken it due to Pep Guardiola being no4 and also Patrick Viera having the no 4

[mufcsean]

this mildly off topic but for next season surely Cesc or Denilson should get number 10, it doesnt look right being at the back.

and complete nonsense

[I.N Extasy]

Shirt numbers don't make a player.

Edit:But he gets the job done and it doesn't seem to be a problem to Arsenal fans that he wears the number ten.

[Meyyappan]

Shirt numbers don't make a player.

Edit:But he gets the job done and it doesn't seem to be a problem to Arsenal fans that he wears the number ten.

And we do not seem to want give a player No 10 as Cesc does not want to swap,maybe in the future Ramsey or Wilkshere.

What do you guys think about Arsene saying Walcott being better than the Messi of 19 years

Let this season be over and we shall compare the 19 Messi season to19 Walcott season

Arsène Wenger believes that Theo Walcott is better for his age than Lionel Messi.

“He’s different [to Messi at that age] and I think he’s more,” said Wenger at Friday’s press conference

“If you have to look for a weakness in Messi you would say it is his ability to run without the ball, behind the defender.

When he takes the ball to his feet he’s like a Ferrari. But Theo is more a guy who has the timing to run off the ball and that is something that is difficult to find.

And we all know Wenger would not intentionally hype him up seeing that he has been trying to protect him all these years from the media.

Lets wait and see because this man believes so

[Phil W.A.F.C]

And we do not seem to want give a player No 10 as Cesc does not want to swap,maybe in the future Ramsey or Wilkshere.

What do you guys think about Arsene saying Walcott being better than the Messi of 19 years

Let this season be over and we shall compare the 19 Messi season to19 Walcott season

Arsène Wenger believes that Theo Walcott is better for his age than Lionel Messi.

“He’s different [to Messi at that age] and I think he’s more,” said Wenger at Friday’s press conference

“If you have to look for a weakness in Messi you would say it is his ability to run without the ball, behind the defender.

When he takes the ball to his feet he’s like a Ferrari. But Theo is more a guy who has the timing to run off the ball and that is something that is difficult to find.

And we all know Wenger would not intentionally hype him up seeing that he has been trying to protect him all these years from the media.

Lets wait and see because this man believes so

That's complete nonsense and i can't believe i'v just read that :shocking:.

[TheBishop]

I'd be happy if Walcott could become 50-75 % the player that Messi is. Still, who knows.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_4356717,00.html

Arsenal linked with Defour, don't know too much about him but if he's captain at Standard already at 20 and already an international, he must have some quality.

[Meyyappan]

He needs to get a look in,he is one hell of a player i remember getting excited about him a year before knowing he would be arriving soon.
Maybe the game against fenerbace seeing a lot of games coming on.

[DJ Clue]

Isn't tonights CL match live on ITV4?

[Meyyappan]

I do not live in England.

[DJ Clue]

Whats that got to do with my question?

[Meyyappan]

Well the fact is i think you get those channels only in England?And anyways i dont have it and by the way what do you think about Vela.

[DJ Clue]

No worrys.

He needs time and in time he can be a huge superstar.

[TheBishop]

Yeah we're on ITV 4 tonight.

What's everyone's expectations tonight? I'm predicting/hoping a 1-1. Fenerbahce are undefeated in 15 straight home game and won 8 of the last 9. A loss wouldn't be a disaster. Even if we did lose, with the next 2 games at home, 2 wins there and that'll be enough to qualify.

[I.N Extasy]

1-1

[Meyyappan]

What are your views on vela and about him getting a start/apperance tonight

[TheBishop]

He'll be on the bench and may come on, definitely if were losing.

Its good to know that we have another talent like him to come into the team if another striker gets injured. That being said, i'm still counting the days till Eduardo comes back :erm:

[Meyyappan]

He should definately be back in 5-7 weeks.

[Dragonfly]

I'd be happy if Walcott could become 50-75 % the player that Messi is. Still, who knows.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_4356717,00.html

Arsenal linked with Defour, don't know too much about him but if he's captain at Standard already at 20 and already an international, he must have some quality.

That would be brilliant news, if we signed. I think he's going to be a top player. I love him. Sweey knows.

[mufcsean]

Certainly does look quite a player, i'm going for a 1-1 draw.

[ThierryHenry14]

1-0 or 2-1 to us.

[DJ Clue]

1-1 me thinks.

[Viperized]

I predict we will win by a minimum of 4 goals to us.

[ThierryHenry14]

So much for all the 1-1 predictions.

[Rossy Boy]

Wow was supprised by songs strike.

[ThierryHenry14]

4-2 now.

[uA - 1905]

Ramsey :thumbsup:

[TheBishop]

That result is as good as 5-1 over Inter, yet i thought Fenerbahce played alright. Our defence wasn't that good at all really but going forward we were just clinical.

I hope all the Diaby doubters were watching. That performance shows why i have so much faith in his ability, he can be as good as he wants to be.

Fabregas, Diaby, Walcott, Ramsey...... i have a boner.

[Bammers05]

What a result! :w00t

[RB14 ARSENAL]

What a result! :w00t

Absolutely, great performanes by Diaby and Ramsey in particular. Judging by those performances, surely they deserve to start next game? :D:w00t

Good to see Theo score again :cool: Great volley by Song.

Hoping the boys can follow up this great win with a win at West Ham on sunday. They certainly should if they can beat top Turkish side 5-2!!

[DJ Clue]

I am stunned 5-2.

What a great result.

[Barry]

Fabregas is a god among men.

[Meyyappan]

Fabregas is a god among men.

Quoted in agreement and

Arsene Wenger is king among gods.

[CDDRodrigo]

Just think when Fabregas and Walcott get to their prime :O

[Meyyappan]

Walcott
RVP
Fabregas
Diaby
Nasri
Clichy
Ramsey
Eduardo
All in their prime and Rosicky getting back to his best oh my god what a sensation it would be.

And all the above stated are reasonably loyal and may finsh their careers here bar maybe maybe Fabregas.

[TheBishop]

Walcott
RVP
Fabregas
Diaby
Nasri
Clichy
Ramsey
Eduardo
All in their prime and Rosicky getting back to his best oh my god what a sensation it would be.

And all the above stated are reasonably loyal and may finsh their careers here bar maybe maybe Fabregas.

Agreed. Only thing missing is quality centre backs. I believe if we had Man Utd's or Chelsea's centre backs, we'd win the league.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Walcott
RVP
Fabregas
Diaby
Nasri
Clichy
Ramsey
Eduardo
All in their prime and Rosicky getting back to his best oh my god what a sensation it would be.

And all the above stated are reasonably loyal and may finsh their careers here bar maybe maybe Fabregas.

Yeah I agree with all those names you have mentioned. All these players are young-ish and still have a lot of years still in them. Arsene has done wonders to sign these players for such a cheap price, especially getting Cesc at such a young age when he was virtually unknown. Arsene must have saw major talent and potential in him and he has turned out to be an awesome player for us. I reckon we haven't seen the best of Fabregas (just yet). Let's hope he stays at Arsenal for life.

Speaking of which, Cesc has revealed that he was approached by an Italian club over the summer:

"Yes, it's true. I did have offers from an Italian side which were interesting from an economical point of view," Fabregas told Sport.es.

"However, nothing really happened after that."

LINK (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_4370081,00.html)

[vanNistelrooy]

Just think when Fabregas and Walcott get to their prime :O
Yeah, they'll be taking La Liga by storm ;)

[DJ Clue]

:lol2:

[Usul]

I wouldn't get too attached to Fabregas, if i were you. :lol:

[Meyyappan]

That idiot Mourinho labelling Robin Van Persie a diver,it seems that he just did not want to leave Arsenal out so he told the first name that came to his mind if he had to accuse any Arsenal member it certainly should have been Emmanuel Eboue.

[Dragonfly]

I wouldn't get too attached to Fabregas, if i were you. :lol:

:realmad:

[DJ Clue]

Eduardo on verge of return
Croatian set for mid-November comeback from horror injury

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger expects striker Eduardo to return from injury by mid-November.

The Croatia international suffered an horrific broken leg against Birmingham City back in February following a challenge by Martin Taylor.

Eduardo's rehabilitation has been progressing well and Wenger has confirmed he could return to action next month.

The 25-year-old signed for the Gunners from Dynamo Zagreb in 2007 and netted 12 goals in 31 appearances before he suffered the break.

Speaking at Arsenal's AGM on Thursday morning, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger said: "Eduardo is three weeks away from playing competitive football."

Tomas Rosicky, meanwhile, looks unlikely to feature for Arsenal before the turn of the year.

Wenger added: "He should be back after Christmas."

The Czech playmaker has been sidelined since January with a troublesome hamstring injury.

[Dundon's]

I wouldn't get too attached to Fabregas, if i were you. :lol:

We better just enjoy the next 4-5 years so while we have him in contract. :happy:

[TheBishop]

Eduardo on verge of return
Croatian set for mid-November comeback from horror injury

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger expects striker Eduardo to return from injury by mid-November.

The Croatia international suffered an horrific broken leg against Birmingham City back in February following a challenge by Martin Taylor.

Eduardo's rehabilitation has been progressing well and Wenger has confirmed he could return to action next month.

The 25-year-old signed for the Gunners from Dynamo Zagreb in 2007 and netted 12 goals in 31 appearances before he suffered the break.

Speaking at Arsenal's AGM on Thursday morning, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger said: "Eduardo is three weeks away from playing competitive football."

Tomas Rosicky, meanwhile, looks unlikely to feature for Arsenal before the turn of the year.

Wenger added: "He should be back after Christmas."

The Czech playmaker has been sidelined since January with a troublesome hamstring injury.

I'm so happy, i think i'm gonna cry :crymore:

:w00t Great news. As for Rosicky, I've never known a hamstring injury to sideline a player for a year. Hopefully he doesn't turn into our sicknote.

[Dundon's]

Hopefully he doesn't turn into our sicknote.


Erm... :mellow:

[TheBishop]

Erm... :mellow:

I mean like a Ledley King. Hopefully once he's recovered from this problem, it won't come back again, like King's knee does.

[Joel]

I mean like a Ledley King. Hopefully once he's recovered from this problem, it won't come back again, like King's knee does.

Still, it's not like Rosicky has had a long run of games for Arsenal. He plays about 7 and then misses a few. He's already your sicknote, buddy.

[wrigh2uk]

Yeah, they'll be taking La Liga by storm ;)

Just like Ronaldo:happy:

[TheBishop]

He made 37 appearances in his 1st season. Its only really last season when he's had problems with injuries.

[Dragonfly]

Just like Ronaldo:happy:

No one else is good enough. :smug:

[Meyyappan]

Just like Ronaldo:happy:

And Tevez

[TheBishop]

St Etienne midfielder Blaise Matuidi admits he could join Arsenal at the end of the season.

The 21-year-old was a target of Gunners boss Arsene Wenger before the beginning of the current campaign, but St Etienne opposed any possible move.

However, Matuidi - who is understood to be valued at around £10million - has now confessed that he would be keen on a move to Emirates Stadium.

The France Under 21 international is set for talks with St Etienne at the end of the season as he considers his future.


"I asked myself questions at the end of August after Arsenal showed their interest," Matuidi said in The Sun.

"An opportunity to join them is not something ordinary. It gives you great self-esteem - it is Arsenal.

"At the end of the season we will have talks, anything is possible."

Matuidi has yet to receive contact from Wenger - who has previously demonstrated his faith in talented youngsters - but he insists he is not upset by the fact St Etienne do not want to let him leave.


"I did not talk to Wenger - but I did not get angry that St Etienne did not let me go," added Matuidi.

Meanwhile, St Etienne president Roland Romeyer has confirmed he spoke with Wenger in the summer and that he will discuss Matuidi's future.

"Wenger called me at the end of August to ask if Blaise was for sale. He didn't make an offer as Blaise was not for sale," said Romeyer.

"Next June we will have a meeting with Blaise and his agent about his future."

I've seen a bit of him and he is a talented player but do we need another centre midfielder?

Fabregas, Diaby, Denilson, Ramsey, Song(can play there), Bischoff(eventually).


EDIT: Just seen that Ian Wright and Ray Parlour will be on 'Goals on Sunday' this weekend. Don't think Wrighty has even been on Sky before as a pundit.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_4378789,00.html

[DJ Clue]

Wenger - Smoking is not acceptable at Arsenal

Arsène Wenger intends to speak to William Gallas after the Arsenal captain was pictured holding a cigarette in a national newspaper on Friday morning.

The 31-year-old was not smoking and the cigarette was not even lit however his manager feels the need to clear up the matter. From what he said at that day’s press conference, Wenger will have stern words for Gallas if he was lighting up.

“I didn't see the picture,” he remarked. “But I have been informed about it and I don't like that. I will check it with him.

“He has a responsibility as captain of Arsenal Football Club and [smoking] cannot be accepted.”

For Wenger, the skipper’s armband always brings extra scrutiny. The manager admits that his captain has made errors in the past but, at the same time, he believes the amount of mud slung in Gallas’ direction far outweighs his culpability.

“It is a public job with a public responsibility,” he said. “That is exactly the same for everybody.

“But he has learned a lot. He has taken a lot of criticism, of course, but I think he took it in a positive way. He himself has come out and said 'I made a mistake last year and I will change and redress my attitude’.

“Personally, I believe he has got a lot of unfair criticism too. But what you can never fault with William is his motivation. He wants to do well and he wants his team to win. He has made mistakes but who has not?”

[ThierryHenry14]

Here's the pic.
http://d.imagehost.org/0437/article-0-02374AFA000005DC-895_468x286.jpg

[Yossi]

Wenger - Smoking is not acceptable at Arsenal

Arsène Wenger intends to speak to William Gallas after the Arsenal captain was pictured holding a cigarette in a national newspaper on Friday morning.

The 31-year-old was not smoking and the cigarette was not even lit however his manager feels the need to clear up the matter. From what he said at that day’s press conference, Wenger will have stern words for Gallas if he was lighting up.

“I didn't see the picture,” he remarked. “But I have been informed about it and I don't like that. I will check it with him.

“He has a responsibility as captain of Arsenal Football Club and [smoking] cannot be accepted.”

For Wenger, the skipper’s armband always brings extra scrutiny. The manager admits that his captain has made errors in the past but, at the same time, he believes the amount of mud slung in Gallas’ direction far outweighs his culpability.

“It is a public job with a public responsibility,” he said. “That is exactly the same for everybody.

“But he has learned a lot. He has taken a lot of criticism, of course, but I think he took it in a positive way. He himself has come out and said 'I made a mistake last year and I will change and redress my attitude’.

“Personally, I believe he has got a lot of unfair criticism too. But what you can never fault with William is his motivation. He wants to do well and he wants his team to win. He has made mistakes but who has not?”

I understand where Wenger is coming from, but it is a bit over the top. Barthez used to smoke 40 a day when he was at United, and he used to sneak into the laundry room to do it.

[mufcsean]

It'd different for a keeper though, they don't need to run around for 90 minutes

[vanNistelrooy]

Just like Ronaldo:happy:
Oh well, at least he helped win us some trophies ;)

[mufcsean]

Apparently they aren't interested in him any more, probably bullshit mind

[TheBishop]

I've defended Gallas quite alot in the past but i'm starting to think his time at the club is starting to come to an end. He's 31 and this season his form has been dropping.

I think he'll still be 1st choice for rest of the season but I can see Wenger bringing in a centre back next summer.

[Dundon's]

How badly could we do with the next wonder kid in the Arsenal ranks been a center back eh??!! A world class English defender is what we're lacking, something in the Adams/Keown mold.

[Meyyappan]

Oh well, at least he helped win us some trophies ;)

Just as Fabregas will do so and there is definately a chance of him staying for life compared to ronaldo;)

[TheBishop]

How badly could we do with the next wonder kid in the Arsenal ranks been a center back eh??!! A world class English defender is what we're lacking, something in the Adams/Keown mold.

Don't know about you but I'd like us to get David Wheater next summer.

[wrigh2uk]

Oh well, at least he helped win us some trophies ;)

By helped you mean single handedly of course ? ;)

[vanNistelrooy]

By helped you mean single handedly of course ? ;)
http://d.yimg.com/eur.yimg.com/ng/sp/empics/20080512/14/1992719468-soccer-barclays-premier-league-wigan-athletic-v-manchester-united-jjb.jpg
I'd say this fella played a vital part too.

Mind you, he wasn't anywhere near as good as Gerrard was :rolleyes:

EDIT:

Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor has claimed that money is killing football.

The Togo international, who put pen to paper on a lucrative new contract at Emirates Stadium in the summer after hinting he wanted to move away from North London, also believes he has won over the fans who initially booed him when talk of a possible exit surfaced.

Adebayor claims some players are purely motivated by the wages they can earn, and that if he was the same way inclined he would have left the Gunners for pastures new.

Decision
Adebayor, speaking at the launch of EA Sports' Fifa 09, said: "Money is killing the spirit of the game. I don't want to mention a name here, but good players are made to be in a great team.

"And most of the players are not in a bad team, but they are not in their right place or position. Money is killing football because some people are making the decision because of money.

"If I had made my decision because of money, I would not be at Arsenal. I would have been in Milan or Barcelona. You know how I could be earning a lot more money than I am earning here.

"I made my decision because I love playing for Arsenal and don't regret anything."

Many Gunners fans were left distinctly unimpressed when Adebayor did little to quell reports he could be leaving Arsene Wenger's squad during the transfer window and made their feelings known.

But the forward clearly has a different recollection of events, claiming he was 'innocent', and now has his sights set on securing silverware for the Emirates Stadium trophy cabinet.


Leaving
He added: "I think I've won the fans back and they can't ask me to do any more. I'm fighting for the team, I love playing for Arsenal and at the moment we're in good shape.

"I've done quite well in my career so far, but I'm still empty-handed. I now want to fill my hands with trophies, which is the reason I stayed at Arsenal. I want to repay them.

"It didn't hurt me when the fans booed as I knew what had been happening and that I'm an innocent guy. If they booed me and I didn't know why, I'd be upset.

"But I knew people had been saying I was leaving and wanted to leave, so I understood. But it never came from me and there's no one that can say today 'Adebayor told me he wanted to leave'.

"I decided to stay at Arsenal, told the boss I wanted to sign a new contract and eventually we did."
Source: Sky Sports

Quite funny from a player I'm sure refused to play for his country because of an issue over bonuses.

[Meyyappan]

Or quite a serious one as he did not leave Arsenal as he stated.

[wrigh2uk]

http://d.yimg.com/eur.yimg.com/ng/sp/empics/20080512/14/1992719468-soccer-barclays-premier-league-wigan-athletic-v-manchester-united-jjb.jpg
I'd say this fella played a vital part too.

Mind you, he wasn't anywhere near as good as Gerrard was :rolleyes:

EDIT:


Source: Sky Sports

Quite funny from a player I'm sure refused to play for his country because of an issue over bonuses.

Please tell me that you are not referring to me as a Liverpool fan

[vanNistelrooy]

No, it was just one of those jokes that everyone but Liverpool fans have each year ;)

[ATH10]

Hilarious.

[Cannon ball]

Adebayor is such a hypocrite.

[TheBishop]

Adebayor is such a hypocrite.

But you gotta love the speed of his interviews.

[Cannon ball]

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x4cu42_carry-on-adebayor_people

Definatly.

[Yossi]

And accent. His interview is often more entertaining than the match that precedes it.

[Usul]

Just as Fabregas will do so and there is definately a chance of him staying for life compared to ronaldo;)
Fabregas will be in Barcelona next year, son. The sooner you accept it, the easier the blow of 'losing' him will be.

[Viperized]

Adebayor is such a hypocrite.
"Pay me like Henry"

[TheBishop]

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x4cu42_carry-on-adebayor_people

Definatly.

Yeah seen that before :D

[TheBishop]

We were average today but we still deserved to win. Green made a few top saves but he was lucky to be on the field after handling outside the area. Important win.

Bendtner is so unpredictable. One minute he looks clumsy, the next he looks elegant.

[JoeyM]

We improved ten fold once Ade came on.

[DJ Clue]

Fabregas will be in Barcelona next year, son. The sooner you accept it, the easier the blow of 'losing' him will be.

You wish. ;)

[wrigh2uk]

Fabregas will be in Barcelona next year, son. The sooner you accept it, the easier the blow of 'losing' him will be.

Is the air very thin in the clouds where your head is ?

[Meyyappan]

After five successful seasons in Mexico, with 99 goals to his name, Sánchez drew the attention of several Spanish sides, and signed with Atlético Madrid in 1981. He turned down an offer to play for Arsenal FC, a prominent English soccer team. It took him a while to find his feet in La Liga, but by the 1984-85 season he was scoring regularly with a team that won the Copa del Rey, finished in second place in the Spanish League and won the Spanish Super Copa. That year Hugo also won his first Pichichi trophy for being the most prolific scorer in the league.

Can someone shed somelight on this?

[L . F . C]

After five successful seasons in Mexico, with 99 goals to his name, Sánchez drew the attention of several Spanish sides, and signed with Atlético Madrid in 1981. He turned down an offer to play for Arsenal FC, a prominent English soccer team. It took him a while to find his feet in La Liga, but by the 1984-85 season he was scoring regularly with a team that won the Copa del Rey, finished in second place in the Spanish League and won the Spanish Super Copa. That year Hugo also won his first Pichichi trophy for being the most prolific scorer in the league.

Can someone shed somelight on this?

Does that not basically tell you everything you need to know? Basically, he turned Arsenal down because he chose some other team! Ruddy noobs:no:

[Nturtle]

We were average today but we still deserved to win. Green made a few top saves but he was lucky to be on the field after handling outside the area. Important win.

Bendtner is so unpredictable. One minute he looks clumsy, the next he looks elegant.

Well...it was a classy Bendtner pass that helped Ade get the second...and the one combo down the left was pretty good, with Ade firing just over after Green spilled his first shot.

Bendtner should start a few more...and Ade can be a good impact sub and vice versa. Shame Vela is not being used more, and if Eduardo returns, he might be used even less.

[Dundon's]

Bendtner was my MOTM anyways and I think it was his best league game for us in a long time. He looked well up for it.

[AgentZero]

Fabregas will be in Barcelona next year, son. The sooner you accept it, the easier the blow of 'losing' him will be.
the arrogance of this post is reminiscent of a los merengues supporter, how ironic.

[Meyyappan]

Some good central defenders coming through with:

Kyle Bartley, Nordveit, Miquel, Botelho adn this guy we had signed that none knew about....
Ignasi Miquel

http://youngguns.wordpress.com/2008/02/22/arsenal-sign-ignasi-miquel-from-cornella/

[jpmanu2005]

It's a real shame utd didnt buy walcott, he would've developed so much faster at a club like united

[AgentZero]

tbh we would of shipped him off to few clubs and then losing them for good ala Rossi and Pique.

[jpmanu2005]

he would've developed much faster tho, look at ronaldo now, that cudve been walcott, he'll leave soon for a big club i reckon!

[Miggy]

he would've developed much faster tho, look at ronaldo now, that cudve been walcott, he'll leave soon for a big club i reckon!

Just like Nani is developing at United?

Can you not see past your own arse? You're doing a good job of starting to make me want to see United fail.

[jpmanu2005]

nani is class, im just saying fergie is class and develops so many good youngsters, including k richardson who on current form at sunderland must be recognised to play for england again, his freekick at the wkend was magic!

walcott cudve been amazing at united but picked a smaller club, he should've waited

[Miggy]

I can't be bothered to bite. I'll just ignore you forever more.

[jpmanu2005]

IM just making a point

[Miggy]

It's more of an opinion you're having and a very biased and ridiculous one at that.
You're just a wind up merchant and the sooner people just ignore you the better.

You shall now be going on my ignore list so don't expect to see me reply to your drivel again.

[Viperized]

Bendtner was my MOTM anyways and I think it was his best league game for us in a long time. He looked well up for it.
Surely you're joking? Other than that great pass, he didn't really do much which indicated a good performance.

[jpmanu2005]

bendtner is below average!!

[Meyyappan]

IM just making a point

Thing is at that time you guys had no right winger so ronaldo had every game for 2-3 years at the highest level to develop if walcott 2-3 years at any top 6 club he would have been better than he is but then again the english media could have ruined it so wenger raised him hidden.......

So talking about devolopping why is not rooney at a better level than ronaldo as expected when he was 18 surely at that time you were expecting 5 years from then for him to be among the best four in the world now i am sure with Arsene nuturing walcott,he shall be at a better level at 23years regardless of him being more or less talented.

If no Hleb,Reyes,Ljungberg and Rosicky.Wally and Pires would have taken the wings and in 2-3 years he would have been around the level your Ronaldo is now albeit being younger.

[Usul]

the arrogance of this post is reminiscent of a los merengues supporter, how ironic.
I was messing with him.

The irony is that he didn't bite and you did.

It's reminiscent of an arrogant fool.

[Dundon's]

Surely you're joking? Other than that great pass, he didn't really do much which indicated a good performance.

If he was as bad as you're making him out to be he wouldn't of finished the game. I remember him ripping into them from the left hand side on numerous occasions and linking up well in all our best moves.

Also apart from what the pundits are saying I thought we played excellent in the 2nd half and were well worth the 3 points, we conceded a couple of chances but in an away game who doesn't?

bendtner is below average!!

Sorry we can't buy the title every year like yourselfs but we'll swap that for the total football our "average" team plays. You've also some neck stating that young players get a better chance at Man U.

[Meyyappan]

Yep thats why wenger took wally out.

[mufcsean]

Please nobody listen to that idiot jp, he is a bad representation of a United fan we aren't all that stupid and arrogant.

[vanNistelrooy]

Please nobody listen to that idiot jp, he is a bad representation of a United fan we aren't all that stupid and arrogant.
Well, most of us are.

[Jake Small]

I was messing with him.

The irony is that he didn't bite and you did.

It's reminiscent of an arrogant fool.


You're retarded.

[Usul]

You're retarded.
And you're a nosey and insolent cunt.

[Cannon ball]

nani is class, im just saying fergie is class and develops so many good youngsters, including k richardson who on current form at sunderland must be recognised to play for england again, his freekick at the wkend was magic!

walcott cudve been amazing at united but picked a smaller club, he should've waited

:fplm:

You're doing a great job of hijacking club threads with your non sensical babble.

[Viperized]

WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS SHIT?!

I just fucking knew this would happen. Fucking brilliant stuff.

How on earth did we concede those two goals? Absolutely horrid defending.

Almunia is clearly no where near good enough to be a first choice keeper for a club like Arsenal.

And why did we take off the likes of Van Persie and Nasri for Song and Diaby? I'm 100% sure we would not have fucked up had these two players remained on the pitch.

They are far better at keeping possession unlike the latter two.

Clearly we will not win the title. It's absolutely clear. We have dropped too many points and will obviously continue to drop more points.

[vanNistelrooy]

It's called shutting up shop, which to be honest you were right to do. Shame your players are too interested in scoring more goals when they should concentrate on not conceeding more.

Cracking goal by Jenas though, and I hear Bentley's wasn't half bad?

[JoeyM]

One of the few moments where I feel truly embarrassed.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

One of the few moments where I feel truly embarrassed.

I second that.

Any normal team would've simply kept the ball and time wasted in those late stages. But not us. We always have to go for more goals and play dramatic football but we end up drawing games instead of winning. That's why we are not genuine challengers for the title. Pushing for a 5th goal turned out to be a fatal mistake. Horrible mistakes from Almunia and Clichy :no: I wouldn't like to be in that Arsenal dressing room tonight.

[Bammers05]

:fplm: FFS.

[nev1612]

It's called shutting up shop, which to be honest you were right to do. Shame your players are too interested in scoring more goals when they should concentrate on not conceeding more.

Cracking goal by Jenas though, and I hear Bentley's wasn't half bad?


Yeah he thought the game was won, which we all did I think!

Bentleys was a peach!!

[Rossy Boy]

:fplm: what a match though

[TheBishop]

Were clearly not disciplined enough to win the league, which is what you get with youngsters. I never felt content even at 4-2, everytime Spurs went forward they looked like causing damage.

The players we've got have got the quality, their attitude is what will stop us from winning anything this season.

Just hearing Wenger speak, he's still going on about potential of the players. That just somes up the last few years, we've always been potential future champions, never present.

[DJ Clue]

Someone beat me to death with a bat Please. :shocking:

[vanNistelrooy]

Just seen Bentley's goal.

Wow.

[AgentZero]

2 goals in 2mins arsene must be furios.

[Viperized]

Just hearing Wenger speak, he's still going on about potential of the players. That just somes up the last few years, we've always been potential future champions, never present.
Many Arsenal fans are still in the delusion phase assuming 'don't worry we'll shine through. Patience!'.

I'm sorry but we've been in transition for long enough. If they aren't going to shine now, they never will.

Our defence is fucking terrible and Almunia is not good enough.

[Dundon's]

I hate coming down on our players but that goal keeper is offering us zero, everything on target hits the net.

I'm distraught.

[uA - 1905]

I hate coming down on our players but that goal keeper is offering us zero, everything on target hits the net.

I'm distraught.

He was good against Fenerbahce though, could have been a different score if he hadn't saved some one on ones.

Being a goalie is tough, one day people think you're brilliant, and you're useless the next.

[mufcsean]

As neither an Arsenal fan nor a Spurs fan, it was a fantastic game to watch, but if i were a gunner i'd be extremely pissed off, mainly at Almunia, what the fuck was he doing.

Silvestre doesn't look right celebrating an Arsenal goal :no:

The celebration by van Persie and Adebayor for the 4th was brilliant, i don't mean the kneelin, i mean that bouncing walk and the "low five". Anybody got a gif of that?

[Stella Artois]

WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS SHIT?!

I just fucking knew this would happen. Fucking brilliant stuff.

How on earth did we concede those two goals? Absolutely horrid defending.

Almunia is clearly no where near good enough to be a first choice keeper for a club like Arsenal.

And why did we take off the likes of Van Persie and Nasri for Song and Diaby? I'm 100% sure we would not have fucked up had these two players remained on the pitch.

They are far better at keeping possession unlike the latter two.

Clearly we will not win the title. It's absolutely clear. We have dropped too many points and will obviously continue to drop more points.

http://i38.tinypic.com/21k9pad.jpg

[Meyyappan]

I am not saying we should do some knee-jerk reactions but to be absolutely sure of getting the premiership maybe in January we should get:A world class Centre back and Holding Midfielder.Actually Alumunia is very good and he is reaching that world class level as he showed against Fenrbace and West Ham.Or simply a world class holding midfielder.

[nath_scfc]

I have to say, after watching Almunia and some of our deliveries into the box I'm not as concerned for Saturday. The height of your defence is something what could play into our hands somewhat. Of our three main outlets in the strikeforce, our smallest has three inches over Toure, your biggest according to Wiki.

I suppose there's chance we could face a backlash, but I'm just hoping we come out with our pride intact. The result last night afforded us the chance to drop points on Saturday so hopefully that can something swing in our favour in so much as being able to play without pressure.

Van Persie's deliveries looked top notch last night.

[BarnDoor]

I have to say, after watching Almunia and some of our deliveries into the box I'm not as concerned for Saturday. The height of your defence is something what could play into our hands somewhat. Of our three main outlets in the strikeforce, our smallest has three inches over Toure, your biggest according to Wiki.

I suppose there's chance we could face a backlash, but I'm just hoping we come out with our pride intact. The result last night afforded us the chance to drop points on Saturday so hopefully that can something swing in our favour in so much as being able to play without pressure.

Van Persie's deliveries looked top notch last night.

I'm afraid there's a little thing called talent, and that generally shines through in the end.

[nath_scfc]

I'm afraid there's a little thing called talent, and that generally shines through in the end.

I'm glad you're an Ameobi fan too.

[Viperized]

http://i38.tinypic.com/21k9pad.jpg
Care to post something useful for once?

[Viperized]

I am not saying we should do some knee-jerk reactions but to be absolutely sure of getting the England League maybe in January we should get:A world class Centre back and Holding Midfielder.Actually Alumunia is very good and he is reaching that world class level as he showed against Fenrbace and West Ham.Or simply a world class holding midfielder.
Almunia is reaching world class level? Keep the jokes coming.

[Miggy]

I am not saying we should do some knee-jerk reactions but to be absolutely sure of getting the England League maybe in January we should get:A world class Centre back and Holding Midfielder.Actually Alumunia is very good and he is reaching that world class level as he showed against Fenrbace and West Ham.Or simply a world class holding midfielder.

:lol:

The day Almunia comes close to the Spanish squad is the day we can talk.

He's average. Much like Valdes tbh.

[TheBishop]

I'm not gonna blame Almunia that much. Before yesterday, i can't remember him having a nightmare game for the past year. The goalkeeping situation isn't are main worry.

Wenger once again blames the result on naivity, which happens with younger players. Surely last night has convinced him it's time to buy some experienced players who know how to win.

[Viperized]

I'm not gonna blame Almunia that much. Before yesterday, i can't remember him having a nightmare game for the past year. The goalkeeping situation isn't are main worry.

Wenger once again blames the result on naivity, which happens with younger players. Surely last night has convinced him it's time to buy some experienced players who know how to win.
Almunia has made plenty of blunders - going right back to the time when Man United beat us 4-2, to the CL Final and then last season.

[TheBishop]

Almunia has made plenty of blunders - going right back to the time when Man United beat us 4-2, to the CL Final and then last season.

I've said before that Almunia was shit when he first joined but since he became our number 1, he hasn't made that many mistakes. You say last season without giving any examples.If you can think of a clear one, i don't know any.

After conceeding that goal to Bentley, any keeper would of been rattled for the rest of the game. Even Cech, Van Der Sar have made mistakes in the last few seasons.

[Miggy]

The thing with Almunia, same problem I have with Valdes, is that he's not the sort of keeper that I think defenders look behind them and think "It's OK we got this guy in goal" he doesn't bring that sort of confidence great keepers do. That's just my impression.

[JoeyM]

Almunia is a midtable keeper at best. He's bottled just about every big game possible for us. I've been saying it for years, he just get's off because rather than making a few massive David James style howlers every year he just continually concedes soft goals throughout. I swear having had him in goal for so long makes people forget what an actual good keeper looks like.

[Dundon's]

Exactly Joe, he doesn't bring anything to the team and has seldom won us games. That's what we need, someone like Shay would do nicely.

I seen that lad play an entire country on his own on many occasions during the Stan era.

[TheBishop]

I don't think Almunia is our main problem, but if we could get someone like Shay Given I would be more than happy. Plus, we need a centre back that loves defending. I've been saying David Wheater for a long time now.

[Viperized]

I don't think Almunia is our main problem, but if we could get someone like Shay Given I would be more than happy. Plus, we need a centre back that loves defending. I've been saying David Wheater for a long time now.
I think a goalkeeper should be a bigger concern for us. Almunia quite possibly cost us the game and was easily the worst player on the pitch yesterday.

[Miggy]

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid958992159?bctid=188784104 9

[TheBishop]

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid958992159?bctid=188784104 9

No matter how pissed off i was last night, it's hard not to smile at that.

[Miggy]

Yeah, at the end of the day it's just a game.

[DJ Clue]

Pfffft, and Almunia says he would like to play for England after last night display against Spudz, Cappello can kick him in the nutz.

[Meyyappan]

Ok.Stop enough negativity on here.Lets just fill the rest of the page with positive stuff and why we adore Arsenal:

I'm a young supporter and it was Arsene's brand of football that lured me to the club and now I can't imagine supporting any other club. Yes we should be able to play beautiful football AND win. Meanwhile, lets get behind the team and be grateful for the mere existence of the Arsenal.I wont simply be able to support another club even if i wanted to i just wish to thank them for all the joys and emotions they gave me.

[nath_scfc]

Me Dad's just seen the Arsenal team get off a bus in Crewe.

I'm also informed Abdoulaye Faye is on his way down to ask them all if they want a fight.

[Stella Artois]

Me Dad's just seen the Arsenal team get off a bus in Crewe.

I'm also informed Abdoulaye Faye is on his way down to ask them all if they want a fight.

I'm gutted I can't get a ticket. Any chance of touting it you reckon? Seen them on Ebay...but for like £250. :fplm:

[JoeyM]

http://shop.tottenhamhotspur.com/spurs08/detail.php?productid=ST39060&proddesc=Arsenal+4++4+Spurs+(D VD)&supercategory=&branch=&wcategory=CAT00084&catdesc=&super=0260CAT00084&treecode=TRE00017

[Dragonfly]

:fplm:

To be fair though, you don't have to be a Spurs (or Arsenal) fan to want to watch that game again. It was very entertaining, however painful.

[mufcsean]

Why show off getting a draw, thats just ridiculous, even if it was a good result

[DJ Clue]

Hope we can get our focus back tomorrow against Stoke.

[Viperized]

Why show off getting a draw, thats just ridiculous, even if it was a good result
Exactly. Hardly something to boast about.

[TheBishop]

It just highlights the lack of success Spurs have had against us in the league for the last 10-15 years.

As for Stoke, I really don't know what to expect. If we play like we did at West Ham, we should be alright. Anyone else think Song should be in instead of Denilson? He's stronger on the ball and offers something defensively.

[DJ Clue]

Anyone else think Song should be in instead of Denilson? He's stronger on the ball and offers something defensively.

Yeah i agree with you there.

[Viperized]

Fabregas and Denilson have looked better as a pairing than Cesc and Song.

[vanNistelrooy]

Why show off getting a draw, thats just ridiculous, even if it was a good result
Considering they've been in fucking dire form lately, I think they can smile a little.

Plus, they're probably the first visiting team to score 4 at The Emirates? Probably one of times in most recent history that Arsenal have shipped 4 at home (other than to us).

Remember this is Spurs too. It'll be another 9 years until another Carling Cup comes along, so let them have their moment ;)

[superot2008]

arsene wenger would have been sacked if was manager of any other club! the man has no ambition, and despite people who say he's good with the youth, you're judged on what you win, he wont buy the kind of class that man utd have, and we know arsenal have the money to do so, that is a pig headed attitude from the manager of a team who'll win nothing again this season, sorry but you are no longer a big team, but a selling club, look at the proof - vieira, pires, henry, hleb, flamini - who's average at best!

[mufcsean]

Be quiet

[superot2008]

i'M RIGHT THOUGH, IT'S JUST THE PUNDITS ARE TOO SCARED TO SAY THAT, THEY JUST BANG ON ABOUT THE PRETTY FOOTBALL, ARSENAL HAVE NO GRIT THOUGH!!

[TheBishop]

Considering they've been in fucking dire form lately, I think they can smile a little.

Plus, they're probably the first visiting team to score 4 at The Emirates? Probably one of times in most recent history that Arsenal have shipped 4 at home (other than to us).

Remember this is Spurs too. It'll be another 9 years until another Carling Cup comes along, so let them have their moment ;)

Charlton beat us 4-2 at Highbury in 2001 :no:

Still we won the title that season.

[Bammers05]

Anyone else think Song should be in instead of Denilson? He's stronger on the ball and offers something defensively.

Quoted in agreement

arsene wenger would have been sacked if was manager of any other club! the man has no ambition, and despite people who say he's good with the youth, you're judged on what you win, he wont buy the kind of class that man utd have, and we know arsenal have the money to do so, that is a pig headed attitude from the manager of a team who'll win nothing again this season, sorry but you are no longer a big team, but a selling club, look at the proof - vieira, pires, henry, hleb, flamini - who's average at best!

:fplm:

[superot2008]

u know im right! you tried to give us a title challenge last year but failed when the chips were down, this yr you wont even get close!

[Meyyappan]

Well isnt this guy JP in disguise?

[TheBishop]

Arsenal team to play Stoke: Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Silvestre, Clichy, Denilson, Fabregas, Song, Diaby, Adebayor, Bendtner.

Subs: Fabianski, Nasri, Van Persie, Walcott, Vela, Ramsey, Djourou.

[DJ Clue]

Nasri, Walcott on the bench, why?

[TheBishop]

Nasri, Walcott on the bench, why?

Because Stoke don't play with any natural wingers (Lawrence still injured) so Wenger has decided to play with more central midfield players to combat Stoke's physical presence, that's why Diaby and Song are starting especially.

Not surprised Bendtner is starting, we'll need him for Delap's throws.

[DJ Clue]

Oh i see.

[Yossi]

A team like Arsenal really shouldn't have to make a large number of changes to try and stop Stoke.

[DJ Clue]

FFS 1-0 down already.

Hopefully there will be a comeback.

[Rossy Boy]

:fplm: Whats Wenger doing, dropping RVP Walcott and Nasri

[Viperized]

:fplm: Whats Wenger doing, dropping RVP Walcott and Nasri
What are you on about? Wenger clearly knows everything, especially as he has put a flat four midfield of four central midfielders. His love to consistently play Diaby out of position is also a delight to view.

Looks like we're going to lose today! Yipee!

[wrigh2uk]

I had a bad feeling about this game before it even kicked off, the teams confidence is shakey at best atm!!!

[Zoolander]

http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/7078/menwomenlaughoutloud01aff4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[I.N Extasy]

http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/7078/menwomenlaughoutloud01aff4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

:d

[Bammers05]

2-1 now.

It'll have to be a pretty quick comeback.

EDIT: Fuck's sake.

[TheBishop]

We've lost to Fulham, Hull and now Stoke. It's embarassing for a team who Wenger says EVERY season, were good enough to win the league. Fair enough last season we were strong enough but we have a weaker squad this year.If he doesn't sort this out in January by buying some proper strong centre backs, he's obviuosly not as smart as we all think he is.

Absolutely gutted for Theo, hope his injury isn't as bad as it seems.

[vanNistelrooy]

How bad would things have to get before Arsene left/got the sack, do you lot reckon?

[Dragonfly]

I had a bad feeling about this game before it even kicked off, the teams confidence is shakey at best atm!!!

Same here.

We didn't look very confident or even like we wanted to be there. We needed someone who was willing to take charge and make things happen; to take it to Stoke. We don't seem to move the ball as quickly as we used to. It was a poor game in general.

If he doesn't sort this out in January by buying some proper strong centre backs, he's obviuosly not as smart as we all think he is.

I have a feeling he's testing out the boys for the first half of the season and if they don't impress, he'll use the cash we have to buy players.

[TheBishop]

How bad would things have to get before Arsene left/got the sack, do you lot reckon?

You know what, i think this is the closest he's ever come to having his job questioned. I think if we started to drop off the top 4, then it could be his time. Mourinho says he wants to come to England once his contract at Inter is done. I'd easily take him here.

[ThierryHenry14]

WTF I'm embarresed to be a Arsenal fan at this moment in time.

[Wan]

Can't control yourself eyh, Van Persie?

[vanNistelrooy]

There were rumours that talks were already underway to get him here after SAF packs it all in.

If I were an Arsenal fan I'd be starting to get a bit tired of hearing his excuses, and opinions that next season will be the season Arsenal win the league.

Maybe I'm jumping the gun, but if we say a team can afford to lose between 3 and 6 games in a season, you might include away trips to the other big three teams. With Arsenal already having lost 3, that doesn't leave them in a great position, does it?

[TheBishop]

There were rumours that talks were already underway to get him here after SAF packs it all in.

If I were an Arsenal fan I'd be starting to get a bit tired of hearing his excuses, and opinions that next season will be the season Arsenal win the league.

Maybe I'm jumping the gun, but if we say a team can afford to lose between 3 and 6 games in a season, you might include away trips to the other big three teams. With Arsenal already having lost 3, that doesn't leave them in a great position, does it?

Exactly. The fact we've lost to, no offence to them, smaller teams, means were not even looking that good for 4th place.

I have been getting fed up of Wenger talking about the quality of the team and the belief and spirit in the team etc. Always saying he believes in this young team and there good enough to win ALL 4 trophies, let alone 1.

I can't believe i'm gonna say this but i'd be delighted if we won the Carling Cup :fplm:

[vanNistelrooy]

You've got to work your way up again. If buying a new stadium has restricted the club's finances, and therefore Wenger not being able to buy "the finished product", then you're gonna have to grind out results here and there.

It's all very well playing all these talented youngsters, but you need the right mix of potential and experience. Something the club can't financially achieve at this point in time?

[DJ Clue]

http://www.meikathon.net/roflmao/facepalm.jpgWTF!

[TheBishop]

You've got to work your way up again. If buying a new stadium has restricted the club's finances, and therefore Wenger not being able to buy "the finished product", then you're gonna have to grind out results here and there.

It's all very well playing all these talented youngsters, but you need the right mix of potential and experience. Something the club can't financially achieve at this point in time?

We were able to spend about 15 million on Nasri. Peter Hill Wood always comes out saying the money is there for Wenger to use. As a football club, i think there's hardly any that's better run than ours. Surely we have enough money to buy some experienced players in January. Even Newcastle and Spurs have spent more than us in the last 10 years.

[Viperized]

Wenger has lost it as a manager. I personally think this is the final straw.

We have so many problems with the team it's embarassing. We have too many average players too.

I've been sick of hearing 'Wenger Knows' and 'Just be patient'.

Can anyone remind me what he has done over the past few years? That's right. Nothing particularly good.

It's only been several games in the season and we've lost 3/4 games already. Not good enough.

The performance of the team today was embarassing. The midfield doesn't even track back and help the defence properly either. The players need a kick up the arse and the manager needs one too. Wenger can only blame himself. He is still probably disillusioned enough to

[vanNistelrooy]

But do they have to pay for a new stadium?

I think Wenger has TOO much confidence in his youngsters. With the right players around them they will shine, but at the moment they don't have that.

[DJ Clue]

Anyone correct me here, whats the Emirates Stadium got to do with manager?

[I.N Extasy]

But you've still achieved more than the other two in that span of time.

Wenger has done well all these years, why lose faith now? I can agree to a certain extent that he exaggerates a fair bit when talking about his squad. But should he be blamed for that? I think he knows what he's been doing - he knows his players and their respective personalities more than anyone else, at least more than any of us in the forums. Slating them would only get their morale down. Which is why I think he praises them that much.

:erm:

[Rossy Boy]

What did they do to Walcott and Ade?

[Barry]

They ( I would say 'we' but I only do that with Ajax really) must've forgot Delap was on the pitch :chanlaugh: Fair fucks to Stoke though.

[Meyyappan]

Same here.

We didn't look very confident or even like we wanted to be there. We needed someone who was willing to take charge and make things happen; to take it to Stoke. We don't seem to move the ball as quickly as we used to. It was a poor game in general.



I have a feeling he's testing out the boys for the first half of the season and if they don't impress, he'll use the cash we have to buy players.

Hopefully

[TheBishop]

But you've still achieved more than the other two in that span of time.

Wenger has done well all these years, why lose faith now? I can agree to a certain extent that he exaggerates a fair bit when talking about his squad. But should he be blamed for that? I think he knows what he's been doing - he knows his players and their respective personalities more than anyone else, at least more than any of us in the forums. Slating them would only get their morale down. Which is why I think he praises them that much.

:erm:

Wenger's probably the best manager we've ever had but the english league is as tough as its ever been to win now. You have to buy world class players to win it.

If the club came out and said we don't have the money to afford players like Torres, Tevez etc, then fair enough.

[DJ Clue]

After the likes of Robert Pires, Patrick Viera, Wiltord, Henry, etc we've been quite bad, only last season was a good signal but then again the luck of good players had to be sold.

[I.N Extasy]

Wenger's probably the best manager we've ever had but the english league is as tough as its ever been to win now. You have to buy world class players to win it.

If the club came out and said we don't have the money to afford players like Torres, Tevez etc, then fair enough.

Yes, but the club did state that Arsene had 70m to spend, some time last season.

Little Mayapen was all over excited. :\

[wrathchild_uk]

That’s the thing though Arsenal should have brought in some players with abit experience to help the young players...i think someone like Senna would have been great along side Fabregas, but then maybe it was abit arrogant of Wenger to think he didn't need to bring in a few old heads..

[Meyyappan]

Okay guys shut up Wenger shall turn on the style as from next week mark my words.Then you idiots shall be around saying all well we won we must keep this going,add in january keep that going keep momentum and all and all blah bla bla

[I.N Extasy]

Lool.

WrathChildofUK:

Yes, Wenger's arrogance was/is what landed him in shit. It's not that he could not find the proper balance between experience and youth, it seems more like he chose not to.

For instance, our "Golden Generation" was playing along side experienced players, in Schmeichel, Cantona and Hughes. Ajax of 94-95, despite fielding young players like Seedorf, Davids and Kluivert had old players too.

[nath_scfc]

WTF I'm embarresed to be a Arsenal fan at this moment in time.
:lol:

What did they do to Walcott and Ade?

Walcott's was a was timed tackle from Delap. It was the fall that injured him however. Adebayor jumped into Shawcross then went down. No idea what happened as I'd lost interest in his plight after the twentieth time he went down holding something, the lanky minge.

I'm afraid there's a little thing called talent, and that generally shines through in the end.

Spot on, Barn.

Sorry lads, but Wenger's tactics lost you that. If there's anything we can't handle it's counter-attacking and pace. We couldn't go toe-to-toe in technical ability because you'd tear us apart. Similarly, it's foolish of you to go toe-to-toe with us physically.

[TheBishop]

That’s the thing though Arsenal should have brought in some players with abit experience to help the young players...i think someone like Senna would have been great along side Fabregas, but then maybe it was abit arrogant of Wenger to think he didn't need to bring in a few old heads..

Senna would have been a perfect signing. Not a surprise our overall defending has got worse since Gilberto left.

[I.N Extasy]

Sorry lads, but Wenger's tactics lost you that. If there's anything we can't handle it's counter-attacking and pace. We couldn't go toe-to-toe in technical ability because you'd tear us apart. Similarly, it's foolish of you to go toe-to-toe with us physically.

Exactly. ;)

[ThierryHenry14]

:lol:
It's true a club like Arsenal should never ever lose to teams like Hull and Stoke, yet somehow that has happened this season.

[I.N Extasy]

It's true a club like Arsenal should never ever lose to teams like Hull and Stoke, yet somehow that has happened this season.

:lol:

:rolleyes:

[Wan]

Next week, home against Man. United. Another loss?

[TheBishop]

I forgot, we always seem to have shit Novembers.

Won't be expecting much against Man Utd, especially if Theo and Adebayor are injured.

[ThierryHenry14]

I fear the worse for the match against United.

[Meyyappan]

Yeah so wenger is the best ever manager of Arsenal F.C none going to challenge that?
So he tried to create a ever lasting legacy of his greatness in football not only at Arsenal and he failed so spare him guys,it could really be true we are on a tight budget and if that is indeed true not even SAF or in that any manager in the history of football do better than he is currently.Okay he was a bit stubborn but after all he achieved he earned the right to err.

He will set things right this season,forget about fa or carling i promise you a final apperance in CL if we do not challenge for Premiership.If liverpool and porto of 2004 and 2005 can win it why not us?

Thats where we have performed best this season with no complemacy winning big against teams that had beaten chelsea last year.

[Meyyappan]

Yeah so wenger is the best ever manager of Arsenal F.C none going to challenge that?
So he tried to create a ever lasting legacy of his greatness in football not only at Arsenal and he failed so spare him guys,it could really be true we are on a tight budget and if that is indeed true not even SAF or in that any manager in the history of football do better than he is currently.Okay he was a bit stubborn but after all he achieved he earned the right to err.

He will set things right this season,forget about fa or carling i promise you a final apperance in CL if we do not challenge for Premiership.If liverpool and porto of 2004 and 2005 can win it why not us?

Thats where we have performed best this season with no complemacy winning big against teams that had beaten chelsea last year.

[nath_scfc]

It's true a club like Arsenal should never ever lose to teams like Hull and Stoke, yet somehow that has happened this season.

Yeah, I agree. I just think it's ace. :lol:

[Jonny2J]

WTF I'm embarresed to be a Arsenal fan at this moment in time.Fuck off. :lol:

[ThierryHenry14]

You support Newcastle need I say any more?

[mufcsean]

How long are Walcott and Adebayor out for, if they are out next weekend along with van persie, that only leaves Bendtner and Vela to play up front.

[TheBishop]

Come back Eduardo!!!!!!:erm::crymore:

[vanNistelrooy]

Anyone correct me here, whats the Emirates Stadium got to do with manager?
Finances/transfer money having an affect on who he brings in, or doesn't in this case

[Jonny2J]

You support Newcastle need I say any more?Quite a typical comment actually of a lot of the apparent 'fans' on this website who wouldn't even know what it's like to see their team play a home game.

[Nifty1Pound50]

How long are Walcott and Adebayor out for, if they are out next weekend along with van persie, that only leaves Bendtner and Vela to play up front.

Don't count your chickens too soon.

Big derbies are often decided by big performances from players outside of the bracket considered "potential matchwinners."

Not that I'm saying for a moment their absence makes us more likely to get a result, unfortunately.

[AgentZero]

Vela and Bendtner against United would be quite comforting on paper but their youth and exuberance could be a huge threat.

[Viperized]

But you've still achieved more than the other two in that span of time.

Wenger has done well all these years, why lose faith now? I can agree to a certain extent that he exaggerates a fair bit when talking about his squad. But should he be blamed for that? I think he knows what he's been doing - he knows his players and their respective personalities more than anyone else, at least more than any of us in the forums. Slating them would only get their morale down. Which is why I think he praises them that much.

:erm:
Just another post by another deluded or disillusioned poster.

No trophies in the past 4/5 years is doing well? Barely achieving 4th place every season? Is that what you call doing well?

Of course I'm going to fucking lose faith. We've lost too many games already, have a shit squad (in comparison to Liverpool, Utd and Chelsea) and continue to sign average youngsters as opposed to quality experienced players.

I have no doubts that under similar circumstances i.e the Arsenal's record over the past few seasons Rafa and Chelsea manager would have been sacked, with Fergerson under questioning, with the possibility of losing his job.

I'm not calling for Wenger to be sacked, but perhaps he should step down. Things do not look like they are going to improve for Arsenal. We're going downhill. We are letting far too many quality players go while bringing in unproven and unfinished products; some of this players are utterly average and will remain to be if they continue to play the way they are.

[Viperized]

Oh and http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_4442152,00.html

Adebayor and Theo injured. Can anyone suggest exactly who Wenger is going to play, if anyone? We barely have enough players as it is, let alone the good ones.

[RB14 ARSENAL]

Just another post by another deluded or disillusioned poster.

No trophies in the past 4/5 years is doing well? Barely achieving 4th place every season? Is that what you call doing well?

Of course I'm going to fucking lose faith. We've lost too many games already, have a shit squad (in comparison to Liverpool, Utd and Chelsea) and continue to sign average youngsters as opposed to quality experienced players.

I have no doubts that under similar circumstances i.e the Arsenal's record over the past few seasons Rafa and Chelsea manager would have been sacked, with Fergerson under questioning, with the possibility of losing his job.

I'm not calling for Wenger to be sacked, but perhaps he should step down. Things do not look like they are going to improve for Arsenal. We're going downhill. We are letting far too many quality players go while bringing in unproven and unfinished products; some of this players are utterly average and will remain to be if they continue to play the way they are.

I agree.

Tony Adams, if he does well as Portsmouth manager, would be the ideal replacement for Arsene in my opinion. Ex Arsenal, legend, English. Hopefully he would get more English players into the team and bring another bright era.

It seems the glory days of late 90's, early 00's are truly over, and I believe Arsene isn't able of making a squad quite like the standards back then. Like you said, he doesn't replace top players properly when they leave. All the income every week due to the Emirates Stadium surely give Arsene enough money to improve the squad by splashing out on on a world-class Goalkeeper, Central Defender, Defensive Midfielder, Winger and a Centre Forward. If he got these, then we would have much stronger squad and perhaps be strong contenders for the League Title.

Unfortunatly at the moment, we are not. If we are not careful, Aston Villa may sneak 4th position from us. Our players really need to pull their socks up and show their true abilities. There needs to be more effort and agression shown in performances, wanting to really win games. I really am not liking this showboating but not winning games; passing the ball round the opposition, dominating in possession but not trying to score goals. Not enough people shoot. It's as if they are scared of the ball and pass it onto the next player until it gets to the stage where the chance is not there anymore.

I really can't wait for the game against Manchester United now.

[mufcsean]

It's not that long since everybody was bragging about how good the kids were, now all of a sudden Arsene has to step down because they aren't good enough to fill Adebayor, van Persie and Walcott's boots. :no: Nonsense, Wenger's only mistake was leaving van Persie on the bench.

The game was lost by Almunia's lack of confidence and your defenders not being able to cope with Stokes height and power.

Anybody who think Wenger should go is a ruddy idiot.

By the way what was van Persie doing :fplm:

[Meyyappan]

Yeah so wenger is the best ever manager of Arsenal F.C none going to challenge that?
So he tried to create a ever lasting legacy of his greatness in football not only at Arsenal and he failed so spare him guys,it could really be true we are on a tight budget and if that is indeed true not even SAF or in that any manager in the history of football do better than he is currently.Okay he was a bit stubborn but after all he achieved he earned the right to err.

He will set things right this season,forget about fa or carling i promise you a final apperance in CL if we do not challenge for England League.If liverpool and porto of 2004 and 2005 can win it why not us?

Thats where we have performed best this season with no complemacy winning big against teams that had beaten chelsea last year.

.

[Dundon's]

The only positive I can take out of today is that we started off 6 points behind the league leaders and we ended the day in the same position. As for the actual game it's pretty much the same old ding dong again for us so I'll save you the moaning.

That said getting rid of Arsene isn't the answer (google spurs) the man is a fucking genius and would walk into any job in the morning if he left us, it's more a case of the players are letting him down more than anything and aside from that, most of the goals going in against us are wonder strikes, anybody notice that?

P.S. Almunia can't make big saves, period. [o.O]

[Meyyappan]

Well then guys what do you think of our CL chances?

[I.N Extasy]

Just another post by another deluded or disillusioned poster.

No trophies in the past 4/5 years is doing well? Barely achieving 4th place every season? Is that what you call doing well?

Of course I'm going to fucking lose faith. We've lost too many games already, have a shit squad (in comparison to Liverpool, Utd and Chelsea) and continue to sign average youngsters as opposed to quality experienced players.

I have no doubts that under similar circumstances i.e the Arsenal's record over the past few seasons Rafa and Chelsea manager would have been sacked, with Fergerson under questioning, with the possibility of losing his job.

I'm not calling for Wenger to be sacked, but perhaps he should step down. Things do not look like they are going to improve for Arsenal. We're going downhill. We are letting far too many quality players go while bringing in unproven and unfinished products; some of this players are utterly average and will remain to be if they continue to play the way they are.

Seriously fuck off, fickle cunt. :)

[Meyyappan]

What about a new poll guys?

Who should be Arsenal's captain in your opinion?

Almunia
Gallas
Toure
Clichy
Cesc
RVP
ADE
Rosicky
Eboue
Other

[BarnDoor]

I'm not even an Arsenal fan and I was glad when Van Persie floored Sorensen. Stoke are fat cunts, who can't play football and foul people off the park. I fucking hate them.

[vanNistelrooy]

most of the goals going in against us are wonder strikes, anybody notice that?[o.O]
True. I expect Olifinjana's to be up there for goal of the season, with Fuller's coming close also.

[AgentZero]

if viper has his way Arsenal would furtehr down the pan. Wenger built this team and i doubt any manager can walk into the dressing room and make them committ the way arsene has done in the past when this young squad has peroformed so well.

[Viperized]

So are you telling me if Wenger improved the team, we'd further down the table?

Anyhow, Man United next week. No Van Persie, Adebayor injured, Walcott injured, Sagna injured. We're going to see a (formidable) midfield 5 man of Denilson Cesc Song Diaby Nasri and the superb Bendtner upfront.

I can't wait.

Seriously fuck off, fickle cunt. :)
Care to remind me why you began supporting Man United?

[DJ Clue]

Gallas infuriated by Gunners
Defender urges Arsenal to change style

William Gallas believes Arsenal must stop putting so much emphasis on playing 'beautiful' football.

The Gunners have again received plaudits this season for their attractive style but they have also slipped to a number of shock defeats.

Stoke beat Arsenal 2-1 on Saturday, just three days after Tottenham had fought back to salvage an incredible 4-4 draw at Emirates Stadium.

Gallas feels Arsenal need to learn to be more flexible and not be afraid of adopting an 'uglier' approach at times.

"Maybe we give too great importance on playing beautiful football," the Frenchman said in the News of the World.

"I agree with Gael Clichy, who said you need to boot the ball into touch on occasions to preserve your lead.

Failing

"But I think our main failing is that we are not always clear in our minds."

Gallas admits it was devastating to drop two points against Tottenham in midweek, as Jermaine Jenas and Aaron Lennon both struck for the visitors in the closing stages.

He said: "It is really infuriating. We lacked clear-sightedness and we made mistakes that we paid for in full.

"I scored in the game but the pleasure has been spoiled by the result. It felt like a defeat.

"There is great disappointment, especially as we let ourselves get pegged back in the final few minutes."

[K.1.N.G.]

Senna would have been a perfect signing. Not a surprise our overall defending has got worse since Gilberto left.


Tbh, I think Gilberto had his time a few yrs back - last season he didnt have the best of times, but tehn again he didnt get too much game time and lacked sharpness.

Losing Flamini was a blow alright and we could have done with s/o like Senna replacing him, but then again AW wanted to give people like Denilson and Diaby the chance to shine. My only gripe there is that neither is a typical DM who will break up opposition attacks, and that is what we're lacking in the middle imho.


@whoever suggested Adams replacing AW, that is ludicrous. I cant see Wenger leaving this season or next, but after that who knows. I dont think s/o like Adams is the man to replace him when he does go though!


Jus tmy musings on the situation, we do look like we need some solidity at the back, a new GK (please, please Shay - you know it makes sense!), a typical dominant CB and a midfield general in the mould of Makelele. Every team needs a core to build from, and if we get that right then everything else should slot into place.....



On a final note, I dont think Wenger's position is, nor should it be, under threat!

[ThierryHenry14]

I don't know why Wenger let Flamini leave and especially for free.

[Jonny2J]

I don't know why Wenger let Flamini leave and especially for free.:lol:

[Calzone]

I don't know why Wenger let Flamini leave and especially for free.

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/5050/003cn7.gif (http://imageshack.us)

[Barry]

Like it's impossible to stop throw-ins without Flamini there?

[TheBishop]

I don't think Wenger just let Flamini go.

And i don't agree with Gallas that we need to change style. We won 3 league titles playing this way. What we need to change is our defending, or lack of it. I can't think of too many at the moment but someone like Wheater, Mertesacker. I was gutted Wenger didn't get Kompany cos he's been watching his progress over the last few years.