Van Persie out for ten more days

By Aries

In announcing the Arsenal squad for the home West Ham game Arsene Wenger has decided to rest Bakary Sagna and bring Justin Hoyte as well as Emmanuel Eboue back in the squad.

Sagna has looked, as have a number of Arsenal ever presents this season, a bit tired with his passing and close marking suffering most.

Most expect Hoyte to come in as a direct replacement but Arsene Wenger may still choose Eboue for the right back slot as he has obviously more first team games under his belt and may be considered as more battle ready.


The other interesting news is that Robin Van Persie is still out for another ten days. And that is an “optimistic” ten days according to Arsene Wenger.

This implies that the earliest that Van Persie could make a come back is for the home Carling Cup game against Spurs on the 9th January of the new year.

It would however be unlikely that Wenger would risk him in such a demanding game against our North London rivals. His come back is more likely to happen, if all goes well, in the next game which is at home against Birmingham on the 12th January.

The full squad for the West Ham game is as follows:
Almunia, Hoyte, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Eboue, Flamini, Fabregas, Hleb, Rosicky, Adebayor, Lehmann, Diarra, Song, Diaby, Walcott, Senderos, Eduardo.


Electric Eduardo digs Arsenal out of a hole but still without rhythm for West Ham

Electric Eduardo digs Arsenal out of a hole but still without rhythm for West Ham

By 1970’s Gooner

I don’t think that Arsene Wenger has discovered a plan B as most media pundits are reporting. The long ball, for those who watch Arsenal’s games more regularly, has recently played a bigger part of Arsenal’s play as the midfield has struggled to find rhythm.

This was due to the fact that the team had become more static without a lot of movement off the ball. This is after all essential for the “ball to floor” approach that Arsenal had come to be associated with at the start of the season.

Prior to the game I, along with a lot of others, were calling for the abandonment of the lone striker approach as the balls to the front man especially the long ball that had by necessity been adopted was not finding enough recipients able to take advantage.

What really changed at Goodison Park were two things. The first was the fact that Eduardo was in the starting line up in a 4 4 2 formation. He had started in a 4 4 2 formation before but that was when the long ball to the strikers was more reluctantly used.

And during the first half at Everton Eduardo was again not contributing much nor was he able to hold the ball to any good effect. But in the second half Arsenal started hoofing the ball to the front men and due to his pace and anticipation was able to find the space to use the ball more efficiently.

There was also more space available for him as the Everton midfield were more preoccupied in pressing tight against Arsenal’s midfield rather than staying back protecting their defence and relinquishing space.

The second thing that was different at Everton was the inept defending from their central defenders especially Jagielka who was found wanting for both of Eduardo’s goals.

Don’t get me wrong. Eduardo has proved again that he is an electric, clinical finisher. He only needs the merest of chances and he will convert with ease. A real fox in the box that Arsenal needed to add to the impressive generation of chances that are usually created.


Although his second strike was more like Bergkamp’s famous goal at Newcastle he reminds me more of Van Nistelroy who was lethal within the box and on many occasions his goals were the only highlight of Manchester United’s wining performances and title triumphs.

Arsenal’s emphatic win at Everton was such a performance where the team did not play that well but still got the three points. We will need a few more of these to be crowned Champions at the end of the season.

Which conveniently brings us to Arsenal’s next game against West Ham at the Emirates. I watched their sumptuous if unexpected win against Manchester United and I was very impressed with their strength, tenacity and approach.

They pressed United’s midfield very tightly and in Mullins and Noble they have the players capable of doing that. They also played with a single striker up front in Carlton Cole who impressed with his ability to hold and lay the ball off to his team mates even if under the pressure of Vidic and Ferdinand.

West Ham will bring this attitude to tomorrow’s game and they will rely on the dead ball situations to make an impact especially when they decide to go with two up front by bringing Ashton on if the game demands it.

The probable absence of their more creative players in Solano and Parker may, in a way, work against Arsenal’s favour as this may force them to become even more physical in their approach rather than try and pass the ball around.

I would expect that Arsene Wenger will keep the same shape as at Everton. Adebayor will probably start in place of the banned Bendtner and maybe Rosicky will get a starting place in front of Hleb who was not at his best.

Diaby although below par at Goodison may be kept in the team due to his defensive and more importantly his aerial abilities which will be much in demand.

The game is likely to be decided in Arsenal’s favour if chances are carved out for Eduardo who is on a hot streak at the moment but more importantly if the defence organize themselves well for the high balls in the area especially from set pieces.

Prediction: Home win 1-0


From myself and the other contributors to "Arsenal Analysis" Happy New Year!

Arsene Wenger believes in five a side training for the Arsenal players

By 1970’s Gooner

Arsene Wenger is a strong believer in including five a side games in the training schedule for the Arsenal players. Speaking for Nike’s recent promotion of the five a side game he says that a good five a side player can be a good 11 a side player.

It prepares the players physically but also forces them to develop their skills and close ball control. This is because space is at a premium with opponents being on top of you forcing one touch football and quick movement off the ball.

Wenger considers Fabregas as one of the Arsenal players who could excel at five a side due to his vision, interception and quick passing. He reveals also that when the Arsenal players learn that it’s five a side training for the day it makes all of them very happy.

You can watch Arsene Wenger speaking about the subject on the video on the right hand side of the screen and also for a more extended interview at NikeFive.com

Also as part of the same promotion Abu Diaby and Philip Senderos took charge of two five a side teams and coached for their games. You can watch that also on the video on the right hand side.

Nike are looking for the team with the best 5-a-side moves that showcase technical ability, pure skills, pace and vision. The Champions get to go on a once-in-a-lifetime, money-can't-buy training session with Arsene Wenger at London Colney.


It’s not what Everton can do but which Arsenal will turn up

It’s not what Everton can do but which Arsenal will turn up

By 1970’s Gooner

I was very impressed with Everton’s display at Old Trafford. It was characterised with tenacious marking coupled with positive forward play. They played two forwards in a 4 4 2 formation away at Old Trafford which shows their self confidence and belief that the best way to tackle these “big boys” is to stand up to them.

And stand up to Manchester United they did. Matching them in every department knowing that in Tim Cahill they have a demon who can not be exorcised however hard the opposition try.

He has a knack of scoring in big games as he showed against Manchester United with a beautiful header at the far post rising above Evra to equalise Ronaldo’s earlier deflected shot. And a last minute audacious overhead kick to get the equalizer against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Everton will not restrict their aspirations to just getting a point like Portsmouth did. They will be gunning for Arsenal full of confidence that their form is up there with the big boys but also realizing that Arsenal’s recent lackluster displays mean that they are there for the taking.

Having watched Arsenal’s recent performances I would find it hard to argue with this sentiment. Arsenal have found it difficult to repeat their early season scintillating football.

It started just after that away Reading game where the whole of Europe were rubbing their eyes with Arsene Wenger’s brand of 1970’s Ajax “Total Football”.

For the next four games (Wigan, Aston Villa, Newcastle and Middlesbrough) Arsenal were deprived of their creative midfield players of Fabregas and Hleb (the latter only played for 60 minutes against Villa).

The players also looked jaded unable to find that quick rhythm and precise passing that has been so characteristic earlier in the season. As a result the team struggled to find their rhythm and a way round the hard pressing adopted by the opposition. Points were dropped.

In the next games victories over Chelsea and Spurs were secured partly due to uncharacteristic errors by the opposition but Portsmouth held out for a scoreless draw.

The creative midfield players had returned for these games helping to restore some of the creativity that was not there before but unfortunately not the sparkle, precise passing and more importantly movement off the ball that is so vital in a “ball to floor” type of football that Arsene Wenger’s teams play.

What was also obvious was that the player designated to support Adebayor in the forward positions was more occupied in doing Fabregas’s job in the centre of midfield. The double negative effect was that Adebayor and Fabregas were rendered that much less effective.

There is not a lot that Wenger can do to restore the freshness other than resting some players; but he may be loathed to make wholesale changes. He can also twig somewhat with the formation and the deployment within it so as to increase the team’s overall efficiency.

In this respect he should consider bringing the 4 4 2 system back so as to give some real support to Adebayor. This he should do even if Van Persie is not fit to return.

Maybe he was reluctant to do so having tried Eduardo there for a few games which didn’t work mostly due to Eduardo’s need to get acclimatized to English football.

But now Bendtner has shown that he is more than ready. When he came on at Portsmouth he helped create two goalscoring chances during a relatively short period of time.

At the same time Hleb should be told to keep to the left of midfield and Rosicky on the right so as to let Fabregas run the show again.

We more or less know how Everton will approach the game and what they can do. The result however will largely depend on which Arsenal turn up.

Three reasons why Arsenal have not been at their best recently

By 1970’s Gooner

“I can't remember too many games where we have won playing like that. It increases the belief because we were not at our best and still won, but you can't play like that every week and get three points."

This was Arsene Wenger just after the Tottenham game.

Well he was very right of course. A somewhat similar performance was displayed against Portsmouth and it was only due to the home team’s desire being limited to getting a point that spared us our blushes.

Everton will not restrict their aspirations to just getting a point. I was very impressed with their away display at Old Trafford which was characterised with tenacious marking coupled with positive forward play.

There are three main reasons why Arsenal have been below par recently.

1. The conflicting role of Fabregas vs Hleb

The first concerns the role of Fabregas in connection with Hleb’s license to roam free. What is actually happening is that Hleb is dropping deep in the middle of the park picking the ball up and trying to dictate play from there.

This actually inhibits Fabregas who is taking a step back to allow Hleb to make the play. This means that his creative brain and penetrative passing are really being missed. And when Fabregas is under performing Arsenal under performs.

2. The 4 4 1 1 (or 4 5 1) system does not suit Adebayor who needs support

Hleb’s desire to dictate play has a double negative effect. As Fabregas and Co are getting too much support in midfield Adebayor is being deprived of the extra forward that will give him the support his is craving for.

When a 4 5 1 or a 4 4 1 1 system is deployed it is vital that the midfielders push forward when the front man has the ball. This has not been happening with Hleb being too deep concerned with making play.

Flamini is concerned with his defencive duties and Fabregas…well he is looking for a role at the moment. Rosicky and Eboue are by the nature of their positions too wide to offer support to Adebayor anyway.

So Adebayor is left carrying the baby most of the time. Arsene has to seriously consider bringing the 4 4 2 system back even if Van Persie is not fit to return. Maybe he was reluctant to do so having tried Eduardo there for a few games which didn’t work mostly due to Eduardo’s need to get acclimatized to English football.

But now Bendtner has shown that he is more than ready. When he came on at Portsmouth he helped create two goalscoring chances during a relatively short period of time.

Hleb should be told to keep to the left of midfield and Rosicky on the right. Let Fabregas run the show again, give some support to Adebayor and then we will see more chances created and hopefully goals again.


3. Not enough movement off the ball

Performances have lately been rather flat characterised by less energy, poor passing and more importantly not enough movement off the ball.

If the other team press on you in all areas of the pitch then you need creativity, movement off the ball and precise passing to get round the markers. If you fail to do that then your penetration into the opponent’s areas will suffer.

And you end up more often than not pumping long balls to the forward(s) who have to however be supported by midfielders or the other forward if this tactic is to work.

Movement off the ball is something which characterises all Wenger’s teams. It is the basic philosophy underpinning the “ball on the floor” approach with precise and penetrative passing.

Now why there’s not enough movement is difficult to discern but tiredness could be a factor. The only way to remedy it of course is to bring in a few fresh faces. There is strength in depth in the squad after all.


Football is a zero sum game and if all the pieces of the puzzle are not in place then the whole suffers disproportionately. However the converse is that when those weaknesses are corrected then the puzzle begins to look beautiful again.

There’s no in-between!

Levski: Arsenal positive about trialist Dimitrov

By Aries

Nicolay Dimitrov finished a week’s trial with Arsenal prior to the north London derby and on his return to home soil Levski’s official site has issued a statement which is optimistic about his chances of getting a transfer to Arsenal.

“After today's training session of Arsenal preceding the London derby vs. Tottenham, the coaching teams were positive in their appraisal of Nikolay Dimitrov's five-day trials”.

Dimitrov himself has been very positive about his ability and his chances to play for Arsenal.

"I think I am capable of playing for Arsenal. Of course, I hope my transfer will become a reality in the forthcoming transfer window. I have heard that I have left positive impressions. Arsenal play quick and technical football and that is what I exactly like."

Dimitrov has played 65 matches for Levski, including 43 starts, since making his senior debut in the 2004/05 season, scoring 12 goals.

Touted as one of Levski's brightest talents, he usually plays on the left side midfield, but has also been deployed as a striker.

As you can see from the video clip on the right he looks a very skillful left winger who has a very sweet left foot.


He has a lot of “Wenger” type qualities such as being able to run with the ball at speed, a high level of technical ability and he can score goals. His free kick ability is also very good.

Arsene Wenger is expected to make a decision on Dimitrov in early January. He still has to decide on recent trialist Tresor Mputu who has finished a ten day trial with Arsenal at the end of November.

Carlos Vela the 18 year old Mexican wonder kid on loan to Spanish side Osasuna is due to return to Arsenal this coming year when he gets a Spanish passport and Arsene Wenger has to take this into consideration when he decides who to keep.

Remember he shipped another trialist, Honduran Wilson Palacios, to Birmingham in the summer saying that Arsenal had too many midfielders.

It has been reported in the Bulgarian press that Levski will request 1 million euros for Dimitrov's transfer.

Bring the 4 4 2 back Arsene. Player analysis and ratings Vs Portsmouth

By 1970’s Gooner

There are two aspects of Arsenal’s play and formation that are stifling the creativity of the team. If they are not corrected then we may find it very difficult to get a result at Goodison Park against an Everton side that will not be satisfied with a draw like Portsmouth were tonight.

The first concerns the role of Fabregas in connection with Hleb’s free roaming role. What is actually happening is that Hleb is not only depriving Adebayor of the support that his play craves for but his dropping deep in the middle of the park actually inhibits Fabregas.

Fabregas is taking a step back to allow Hleb to dictate play but this means that his creative brain and penetrative passing are really being missed.

As a result Adebayor is playing a really lone role up front. This was belatedly corrected with the introduction of Bendtner in the last part of the game and almost immediately Nicklas created very good scoring chances.

What is clearly needed is the reintroduction of 4 4 2 with the return of Van Persie or if he is not fit then Bendtner should be paired with Adebayor. Hleb should be told to keep to the left of midfield and Rosicky on the right. Let Fabregas run the show again and then we will see more chances created and hopefully goals again.

Almunia

Very assured and safe. Came out very fast to make Benjani rush his decision when he was one on one against him. 8

Sagna

Had a good game. Defended well and went forward a lot in tandem with Eboue. 7

Clichy

Strong and determined. Kept Benjani mostly quiet and got back very well to put him off when he raced through on his own. 8

Gallas

Had a sound game and nearly scored near the end of the game. 7

Toure

Played well and also went forward but no luck. 7

It must be said that the defenders had a relatively easy time of it as Portsmouth were more concerned about defending rather than going forward much.

Rosicky

Was quite mobile and was up for it tonight. Tried one very dangerous shot from outside the box which James saved very well. 7

Hleb

Was trying to make the play dropping deep but the movement off the ball seems to be a lot less from the rest of the players. 7

Eboue

Was very much involved in the play form the off combining well with Sagna. However his crosses and attempted cut backs left a lot to be desired. He needs to improve on these if he is to keep his place in the team. 6.5

Fabregas

Was rather quiet in the first half probably due to Hleb’s tendency to drop deep although he did try to make those ghost runs into the box. Came more into the fore in the second half and as a result Arsenal looked more threatening. 6.5

Flamini

He played his normal game of protecting the defence and breaking up play. 7

Adebayor

“Too lonely this Xmas”. I feel sorry for him really. He needs some support. But he tried his best under the circumstances. 7

Subs

Diaby: took some time to get into the game and lost the ball too often. 6

Bendtner: made an impact as any substitute ought to. Helped create a very good chance for Rosicky which he should have buried. 7

Nicklas Bendtner could be the new Ray Kennedy: propelling Arsenal to the title

By 1970’s Gooner

I remember when I first started going to Highbury as a young lad. It was the time when all the local and national newspapers were mentioning Arsenal only in terms of its past glories. Of not having won anything for 17 years.

17 years I thought was a very, very long time. Still I had already chosen which team in north London I was going to bestow my allegiance to. This was the team in the area where I lived, the team all my friends and family supported and I did after all believe that with a strange name like Arsenal I couldn’t go wrong!

Strange because no other team in the League had a name that was not derived from the name of the town or area it came from nor a nickname that meant its players could gun down the opposition at will!

So I vowed that it wouldn’t matter if they went for another 17 years without winning anything.

But Bertie Mee’s Arsenal managed to get into the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, today’s equivalent of the UEFA Cup.

It was at this time that Bertie Mee started bringing into the team some younger players to replace a few of the old hands that had their day. Ray Kennedy was one of them. He made his first team debut against Glentoran in the 1969-70 version of the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup.

In fact to my great surprise and of course satisfaction Arsenal progressed to the competition's final and the young Kennedy had a starring role. He came on as a substitute during the first leg while Arsenal were losing 3-0 to Anderlecht away and scored a crucial late goal.

Arsenal had to win 3-0 at Highbury to win overall which they did. It was their first trophy after 17 years. And I was there to see it.

What really impressed me was this strong and tall young lad that had burst onto the first team and played as though he had been around for years.

And what was even more satisfying was that we got him for nothing! He was released by Sir Stanley Mathews from Port Vale when he was 16 and he was working in a sweet factory playing amateur football!


Most of all I was impressed with his ability to receive a pass either to feet or in the air and even if surrounded by opponents clicking at his heels and trying to push him off balance he would still manage to protect the ball until his fellow players were ready to receive his lay off.

I watched Nicklas Bendtner for the first time at a televised Carling Cup game at Doncaster Rovers two years ago when Wenger fielded a B side which included among others Almunia in goal, Senderos at centre back and Robin Van Persie in attack. Bendtner came on for RVP in the 33rd minute (Almunia saved two penalties in the ensuing penalty shoot out).

His physique and style of play straight away reminded me of Ray Kennedy. Opposition defenders found it difficult to cope with his strength and aerial ability which was also strangely combined with a touch of skill and finesse.

I made a point of watching him play for Denmark and in a few of Birmingham’s games last season and he was clearly a handful for most defenders. He carried that form and style of play into this season for Arsenal. He was quite impressive in the pre season tournaments where he showed that he could rough it with the seasoned pros of the foreign leagues and also score goals.

I even argued on this site that he should be a realistic contender for inclusion in the first team “Bendtner makes a case for starting against Fulham” and “Bendtner should start every game. It makes more tactical sense”.

He has been used sparingly by Arsene Wenger mostly in the Carling Cup and a few Champion’s League games scoring against Newcastle, Slavia Prague, Steaua Bucharest and of course that marvelous header against Tottenham.


In fact Ray Kennedy scored a famous goal for Arsenal against Spurs.

During Ray Kennedy’s first season as a first team player (1970-71) he only missed one game in all competitions. He was an integral part of the Arsenal side which became only the second in the 20th century to win the coveted Double of League Championship and FA Cup (Spurs was the other one).

A tight, dramatic finale to the title race saw Kennedy score the only goal of the game against Tottenham at White Hart Lane from a cross by another of my 1970’s favourites, George Armstrong, to secure the title for Arsenal, our first since 1952-53. I was there too “banking” off school early to make sure I got into the ground.

Three days later, Arsenal beat Liverpool 2-1 after extra time to win the FA Cup. Kennedy didn't score in the final (Charlie George and Eddie Kelly did) but did end the season with 27 goals, making him the club's top scorer.

Nicklas Bendtner has shown that Arsene Wenger can rely on him. If given the chance he could help propel Arsenal to the title just like a young Ray Kennedy did when, with the rest of the Arsenal 1970’s greats, went on to make history.


From me and the other contributors to “Arsenal Analysis” we thank you for your support and participation and wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

May all your wishes come true.

Fabregas has added a “Peter Storey” attitude to his vast arsenal of talents

Is Justin Hoyte the new Pat Rice?

Police data show Manchester United's Old Trafford as one of most unsafe Premiership grounds

By 1970’s Gooner

Sir Alex Ferguson has voiced concerns about the lack of security at the Emirates after the two sides drew their game there early last month 2-2.

Well, he will do well to look no further than his own back yard.

Police data, published by the Home Office, show that the club topping the League with the most fans arrested last season at Premiership grounds was Manchester United (195), followed by Chelsea (135) and Sunderland (119).

Newcastle and Tottenham came next, both with 117. Arsenal only had 80 arrests and was eighth in the table.

Football Related Arrests 2006/07 Season

1. Manchester United 195
2. Chelsea 135
3. Sunderland 119
4. Newcastle 117
5. Tottenham 117
6. West Ham 111
7. Manchester City 91
8. Arsenal 80
9. Aston Villa 77
10. Everton 70
11. Middlesbrough 68
12. Liverpool 64

The club with the most well behaved supporters was …Fulham with only 8 arrests followed by Charlton (17), Blackburn (21), Portsmouth (27) and Watford (22)

Almost 3,800 people were arrested last season at Premiership grounds, 8% more than in the previous season. Public disorder and missile throwing was up, but violent disorder fell.



The number of arrests for violent disorder, fell to 337, the lowest ever figure, from 358 the previous season.

Tottenham had the most fans arrested for this offence (30) while Arsenal had only 8.

But Manchester United had the most held for public disorder (98) and had the most banning orders issued to its supporters than any other club (90) twice as many as for Arsenal supporters.

And there's more.

Top of the League for alcohol offences was Newcastle and.... yes youv'e guessed it Manchester United (68) with twice as many offences as Aston Villa, Tottenham and Everton and three times as many as Arsenal (20).

So it's best for Manchester United to get its own house in order first before complaining about others.

Home Office: Statistics on football related arrests and banning orders- Season 2006/7

Trialist Dimitrov: “Toure and Adebayor the big jokers in the Arsenal dressing room"

By Aries

Nicolay Dimitrov has just finished a week’s trial with Arsenal and on his return to home soil has been speaking to Bulgarian sports newspaper “Gong”.

He believes that he has impressed Arsene Wenger:

“I have talked with Аrsene Wenger personally. The opinion looks positive but everything will be cleared in January. The two clubs must agree between each other, Dimitrov commented.

He also talked about how welcomed he was made to feel by the Arsenal players and the fantastic comradeship that exists at the club.

“Upon entering the dressing room one by one they conversed with me, saluted me, asked me how am I, which team I play for etc. The all helped me feel one of them”.

He was particularly impressed with Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor.

"I have established contact with all players at the club. I liked Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor who are big jokers. The atmosphere in the dressing room is very pleasant and this is one of the reasons for the success of the club”.


"I think I am capable of playing for Arsenal. Of course, I hope my transfer will become a reality in the forthcoming transfer window. I have heard that I have left positive impressions. Arsenal play quick and technical football and that is what I exactly like."

Arsene Wenger is expected to make a decision on Dimitrov in early January. He still has to decide on recent trialist Tresor Mputu who has finished a ten day trial with Arsenal at the end of November.

Player analysis and ratings Vs Spurs. No more turning points… please

By 1970’s Gooner

Where do you begin to tell this story!

It had so many twists and turns that it’s difficult to pick a starting place. Everything happened in the second half and every time “it” happened you thought that this will be the turning point that would define the rest of the game. But every time you were proved wrong.

The first false turning point was Adebayor’s goal in the first few minutes of the second half after a sublime back heel by the lackluster Fabregas. You thought Arsenal will now kick off from there go on and dominate the game and get a second goal.

But no. We reverted back to our sloppy passing and allowed Spurs to come back.

Robbie Keane missed a sitter from about three yards hitting the bar when it was easier to score! But this did not make us sit up and take notice and within minutes the very dangerous Berbatov scored from a very tight angle ala Fabregas’s goal against Manchester City earlier in the season.

This goal you felt was another turning point. Could it propel Spurs to go forward and win the game now?

When Robbie Keane was lining up to take the penalty you could tell which side he would put it by the way his body was lined up. Almunia did too becoming the hero of the day. Was this another turning point?

Wenger must have thought so. He went for it and Bendtner showed his worth by scoring with his first touch of the ball.

No more turning points please I prayed.

Almunia

His penalty save was pure intuition and that is a good attribute for a goalkeeper. But his concentration let him down for the equaliser because he was positioned correctly on his near post but the ball flew in over his head. 8

Sagna

Did not venture forward as much as we have been accustomed to and for this reason we lacked penetration on the right wing. He defended soundly bar for the keane miss when he was caught out of position. 7

Clichy

Had the better of Lennon who was kept quiet mostly throughout the game. Was more attacking minded in the second half. Berbatov’s goal came from his side of the pitch but you couldn’t really blame him for it. He gave the most accomplished performance of the game for me. 8

Toure

His usual solid performance but he did panic a little bit when Berbatov had the ball in the area sliding in against his leg and conceding the penalty. 7

Gallas

Missed a few headers he went for otherwise again very solid. 7

Rosicky

A good if unspectacular showing. Busy and energetic but due to the team’s overall below par performance that is as far as it went. 6

Eboue

Was more pragmatic and sensible playing a more controlled game. I don’t recollect him giving the ball away as much as he did in his previous games. He also offered good defensive cover when needed. He has the qualities and I think with more application he can improve his game a lot further. 6

Fabregas

Was not at his usual best. A lot of his passes went astray which is uncharacteristic of him. He did manage to get one right though; the back heel to Adebayor for his goal. However even at below his best he still is the maestro of the team. 7

Flamini

One of only a few Arsenal players who played up to their usual level. Energetic and purposeful and covered a lot of miles as he usually does. 8

Hleb

Showed his sublime skills in the first half dribbling his way past defenders as though they were not there. He dropped too deep for my liking picking the ball up and making the play from there. I think there is duplication here with Fabregas doing the same. This meant that Adebayor was often alone up front when he received the ball especially the long balls. I think his needs his Robin back. 6

Adebayor

Took the goal like Henry would have done by opening his body before striking the ball pass the keeper. Otherwise he tended to concede possession when he should be keeping the ball and trying to bring other players in the game. Wasn’t helped however by the lack of another support player up front. 7

Subs:

Bendtner (74)

This boy is a big game player. He has the potential to become an Arsenal great. He rose for his header beautifully and hang a little bit in the air before he buried it in the net. Even though he could have kept the ball up front a little bit better he still gets a 9 !

Gilberto (82)

Kept in front of the defence and protected the area in the closing minutes. Made one bad pass however and I am increasingly worried about his lack of pace. 6

Man of the Match: Almunia for providing the final turning point

Trialist Dimitrov asked to play like Berbatov at London Colney!

By Aries

It seems that Levski’s unofficial web site has a direct line of communication with Arsenal trialist Nicolay Dimitrov.

It is reporting that Dimitrov took part in an hour long session with the senior players at London Colney ahead of their final preparations for the battle ahead of the North London derby.

Apparently due to his knowledge of Tottenham’s Bulgarian forward, Dimitar Berbatov, he was asked to try and play in a similar style during the training session when the Arsenal players practiced their tactics for the match against Tottenham.


It is doubtful however whether this would have added anything new to what the Arsenal defenders do not already know. They have faced Berbatov a few times already in a number of North London derbies but I suppose every little bit helps.

This was Dimitrov’s last day of his trial period at Arsenal and Bulgarian national sports newspaper “Topsport” is reporting that he is very happy with how everything went and feels that he impressed Arsene Wenger and his staff.

“Arsenal’s style of football which is based on technique suits my style well. I hope that the transfer becomes a reality” he said.

Arsene Wenger is expected to make a decision on Dimitrov in early January. He still has to decide on recent trialist Tresor Mputu who has finished a ten day trial with Arsenal at the end of November.

Carlos Vela the 18 year old Mexican wonder kid on loan to Spanish side Osasuna is due to return to Arsenal when he gets a Spanish passport and Arsene Wenger has to take this into consideration when he decides who to keep.

Remember he shipped another trialist, Honduran Wilson Palacios, to Birmingham in the summer saying that Arsenal had too many midfielders.

The new Bergkamp can exploit Spurs weaknesses

By 1970’s Gooner

Now that Eboue is back in the squad fit again Arsene Wenger has a decision to make. Does he stick to the formation and system that has worked reasonably well in the absence of Robin Van Persie or does he reintroduce the Dutchman back in the first eleven?

During his absence Arsenal played with one forward in Adebayor with Eboue and Rosicky in the wide midfield positions. Hleb has been operating just behind him in a loose 4 4 1 1 formation. I say loose because Hleb often performs play making duties, dropping deeper to receive the ball and direct play.

In fact this is a position he was used to playing in Germany before his transfer to Arsenal. He knows how to play it very well.

In a way the formation is really a 4 5 1 but it is a creative and positive 4 5 1 rather than the dour and defensive minded formations that this system has come to be associated with.

However this style of play means that Adebayor is often isolated up front and unless the midfielders surge forward to support him the attacks can sometimes lose their impetus. Also the lack of another forward reduces the goal scoring potential of the team.

Now if Arsene Wenger decides to bring Van Persie back it means that the system will have to change to an orthodox 4 4 2 with Hleb and Rosicky on the flanks and Eboue dropping to the bench.

In making the decision Wenger will look at Tottenham’s style of play and try and exploit their weaknesses.

Spurs under Ramos are playing with a positive philosophy of going forward. They deploy two forwards (usually Berbatov and another according to availability) and two wide midfielders (Lennon and Melbrangue) in a 4 4 2 system where the wingers play more as orthodox wingers rather than tacking in to form a more compact midfield.

In fact this system will suit Arsenal’s 4 4 2 very well. Spurs will only have two men in midfield and with Hleb coming off his line as he tends to do (so as to create space for Clichy) it is Arsenal that will have more numbers in this part of the pitch.

Spurs also lack creativity especially in midfield. Jenas and Boateng are not that imaginative in their play preferring to play short rather than penetrative passes.

There is another reason why Wenger may deploy Van Persie and that is the obvious weakness that Spurs have in defence especially centrally where Kabul and Dawson, if fit, will play. Considering that Spurs have conceded on average 1.7 goals per game (29 goals in 17 games) it looks good for Arsenal’s attack.

Spurs on the other hand have a potent attack which on Saturday will be manned by the impressive Bulgarian Berbatov and Irishman Robbie Keane.


There have been goals scored in each of the last 13 league games since the 1-0 defeat at Manchester United on 26 August (their only blank in 16 league outings).

However Arsenal’s defense has tightened up this year. Toure and Gallas have formed a very strong partnership and Sagna and Clichy look formidable in the full back positions. Flamini also tends to play in a more restricted role protecting the defence.

Arsenal have conceded on average less than a goal per game (0.8 in fact) and if Almunia plays to his best Tottenham will find it difficult to score.

Bergkamp used to score against the Spurs often memorable goals. The new Bergkamp can do the same.


Prediction : 2-0

The woman behind Hleb’s resurgence

By Aries

Alexander Hleb’s performances this season have been an absolute revelation. His fantastic skills and energetic commitment have been one of the most important reasons why Arsenal are top of the League.

This wasn’t the case last season where his form was at the lowest ebb since he came to the club with a lot of fans voicing their dismay at his inept performances.

“Behind every successful man there is a woman”. And it seems that this saying is being proved true in Alexander’s case.

Her name is Anastasia Kosenkova (Nastya) and sings for the pop group “Topless”


Hleb said: “My wedding will be in the summer. For a long time I’ve been looking for the girl of my dreams and I have finally found her. Nastya is a very nice and pure person.”

His mother should be pleased because at the time of his move to Arsenal she said:

"He doesn't have a girlfriend - he's so obsessed with his career that he has no time. I hope he meets someone nice soon."

Apparently Nastya fell in love with Hleb after watching him on TV.

“I thought: ‘What a Teddy-boy!’” she said.

And what a beauty she is! Well on you Alex.

Can you please score against Spurs on Saturday?

Eboue’s injury more serious than expected or has it vanished overnight?

By Aries

Eboue has developed a reputation for simulation on the football pitch but when he was stretchered off last Sunday after a cynical foul by Joe Cole it did look that it was more serious than that.

Arsene Wenger feared the worse:

"He has injured his medial knee ligaments. We will see in the next 48 hours but it looks as if he will be out for a while." He said.


Only yesterday sources close to the player himself told the Africa Press Agency (APA) that he is now likely to miss the whole of the African Cup of Nations which is scheduled to take place in Ghana between the 20th of January and the 10th of February of the new year.

This would have meant that he would have been out of action for a whole two months depriving both the Ivory Coast and Arsenal of his services.

But surprisingly Arsene Wenger speaking on Arsenal TV Online today Thursday afternoon failed to name Eboue as one of the players who will be missing the derby against Spurs on Saturday:

“The injury news is quite good compared to last week. The only one who is problematic is Theo Walcott. He is not fit to practice. He has had flu and has not recovered completely. Everybody else is available.”

The inference that can be made therefore is that Emmanuel Eboue is fit despite being stretchered off against Chelsea only four days ago!

Let’s hope so……

Wenger’s interview technique impresses Bulgarian trialist Dimitrov

By Aries

As recently reported on this site Bulgarian trialist Nicolay Dimitrov arrived in London Colney last Monday to start his week long trial with Arsenal clutching an English dictionary.

Apparently his knowledge of English couldn't have been that bad as it is reported that he had a meeting with Arsene Wenger before proceeding to take the field for training at London Colney. Present were his agent and an Arsenal representative.

Dimitrov was impressed with Wenger’s questioning which required him to make a self assessment.

“Which are your strongest qualities?” Wenger asked him and when he answered Wenger asked him to describe what he thought were his weakest points and the areas of the pitch he is comfortable to play in.

Wenger also advised him to relax and try and produce his best on the pitch.

On his part Arsene Wenger was impressed with Dimitrov’s English: “I see your English is quite good” he said.

Wenger revealed to Dimitrov that he caught his eye watching the video of Bulgaria’s recent defeat to England for the Under 21’s.

As we recently reported Dimitrov has already undergone a two hour fitness test session at London Colney which he passed with flying colours and then took part and scored in a training game arranged so that he could be assessed under match conditions.

Wenger has still to make a decision on Tresor Mputu who has finished his trial two weeks ago. It seems that he may be delaying so that he can also assess Dimitrov.

Arsenal’s Africans impressed by trialist Mputu but Wenger’s dithering lets in Standard Liege

By Aries

Tresor Mputu, as has recently been reported on this site, has finished a ten day trial at Arsenal but as yet there are no news.

This is after Wenger himself stated that he was impressed with the player and the player’s agent predicting that the deal was as good as done!

Mputu certainly impressed the African contingent at Arsenal. It is reported that they laid out a dinner for him the day before he left to return to Congo where Adebayor even told him that his skills deserve to be displayed in Europe.

"The Football you practice is good enough for European countries such as France where you should certainly have been."

Arsene Wenger is delaying making a decision on the matter despite recognising the player’s qualities:

"He has qualities, but he has never played in Europe. Maybe we'll pursue it, but it will be on a six to seven-month plan, you know, you get the guy in to adapt, and then we'll see how well he does."

It appears that Wenger is delaying making a decision so that he can also assess Bulgarian Dimitrov who has started his trial at Arsenal this week.

However this dithering has energised Standard Liege’s sports director, Dominique D'Onofrio, who had shown a very keen interest to bring Mputu to Belgium prior to Arsenal “high jacking” the player.

“We sent the invitation to the player, it is up to him to decide. For his first experience in Europe Standard Liege can be a good step”. We will not wait forever"

If Mputu ends up going to Belgium he will have good company as his fellow compatriot and ex team mate at TP Mazembe, Dieumerci Mbokane, is already plying his trade there.

Trialist Dimitrov passes fitness test at London Colney

By Aries

As originally reported on this site Nikolay Dimitrov began his one week trial period last Monday and according to the Bulgarian press it seems to have got off to a flier.

First he underwent a two hour test session at London Colney which he passed with flying colours and then took part and scored in a training game arranged so that he could be assessed under match conditions.

“I feel incredible. The setting is excellent at Arsenal. The conditions that this historic club offers are the best and make you think only about your football” he said.

He was also impressed with the friendliness he was met with from the other players.

“From the first day, when I popped into the dressing room all faces turned and welcomed me to Arsenal. They asked me about Bulgaria, about Levski. It is great.

I know I will be happy here"

It is reported that Levski will request 1 million euros for Nikolay Dimitrov's transfer.

This though will become clear at the beginning of January when Arsene Wenger is expected to make a decision.

Player evaluations and ratings Vs Blackburn

By 1970’s Gooner

The good the bad and the ugly. We saw all these three characteristics emerge as this Carling Cup tie evolved.

The young guns with an average squad age of 19.6 years fought magnificently and bravely and totally outclassed Blackburn’s first team for the entire first 45 minutes.

They scored two well carved out goals the first from Diaby as early as the 5th minute from a beautiful cross by Bendtner and the second on 29 by Eduardo who was put through by the very impressive Denilson.

This was mesmerizing football with the result that the Blackburn players were chasing shadows.

A wrong decision by the linesman for allowing a clear offside which led to the cross for Santa Cruz’s first goal just before half time gave Blackburn hope.

In the second half Blackburn played with more tenacity and with long balls over the Arsenal centre backs heads. This troubled them, especially Song, who otherwise had a very good game.

It was a high swerving ball by Arsenal old boy Bentley who took a free kick conceded by another promising young gun, Randal, that resulted in Cruz’s headed equalizer.

It was now turning into a battle and Arsenal’s slick and fine football deserted them as the game showed its bad and ugly side. The boys showed that they can mix it as tackles and hard challenges were flying in.

Denilson overdid it right on 90 minutes sliding in on Dunn with both feet up and even though he did not catch him he saw red.

Blackburn sensed that they could get a winner but it was the young brave hearts who found the resources to come back with a third on 104. Song providing the assist for that clinical finisher Eduardo to slot in his second and Arsenal’s third.

Fabiansky

Had a good game making several saves. He looks a good shot stopper but showed some uncertainty on crosses electing on some occasions to punch rather than catch the ball. When he improves on this aspect he will be a fine goalkeeper. 7

Hoyte

A sterling performance. Very strong and determined in his tackles. Practically saved the day by flinging his body in front of a shot blocking what looked a certain goal for Blackburn near the end of extra time. 8

Traore

Don’t worry too much if Clichy gets injured. This boy has got it. Arsene Wenger probably found a new set of magic to “copy and paste” Clichy and create a clone called Traore! Defended and attacked in almost equal measure and effectiveness. 8

Senderos

Only made a couple of positional errors which resulted in him loosing his player but overall had a strong performance. 7

Song

Impressed me tonight. He was strong, tenacious and calm throughout the game. He was however troubled with the long high balls over the top and this is an area he needs to improve on. A beautiful assist for the winning goal by bringing the ball out of defence and playing Eduardo in. 9

Diarra

His best game for Arsenal so far. Practically won nearly all the tackles he went for and dominated in that crucial central midfield area. If he could release the ball a bit earlier he would improve his overall effectiveness a great deal. 9

Denilson

Performed what was required of him very well. He made himself available to receive the ball and then laid it off with intelligence and accuracy. A very mature performance until he lost his head. He would have got a 9 from me but… 7

Randal

Did ok for his debut. Was played out of position but he nevertheless showed that he has the skills to have a future at Arsenal. Laid a nice ball to Bendtner on the edge of the box who then provided the assist for Diaby’s goal. 7

Diaby

Growing in stature with every game. Just like Vieira you need three players to dispossess him! He will surely become a regular in the first team eventually. Took his goal well. 8

Bendtner

Becoming a class act. He not only is good in the air but he has skills on the floor. He led the line very well and I was impressed with his ball control which is better than Adebayor’s. 8

Eduardo

What a finisher. This boy is a killer. He is the best finisher in front of goal in the club I think. However he still needs to be able to hold the ball better up front as he was often dispossessed. 8

Man of the match: For me it’s close between Diarra and Song. For his assist for the winner…. Song


Subs: they all came on late in the game

Barazite: unlucky to get injured but showed some nice touches
Merida : looked assured
Gibbs : not enough time on the pitch




Blackburn

Brad Friedel, Didn’t have a lot of shots to save 8

Ryan Nelsen, Strong performance 8

Christopher Samba, lacks confidence and positional awareness. Responsible for not cutting the ball to Eduardo for his first goal and missed a sitter right at the end 5

Stephen Warnock (Zurab Khizanishvili), Did well defensively but was not as effective going forward 7

David Bentley, Here there and everywhere. A very good performance 8

David Dunn (Aaron Mokoena), Gave everything 8

Morten Gamst Pedersen, Was not penetrative enough 6

Steven Reid, Looked rusty. At fault for Arsenal’s first and last goal 5

Robbie Savage, not his usual strong performance especially in the first half 6

Matt Derbyshire (Benni McCarthy), A beautiful cross for Blackburn’s first goal 8

Roque Santa Cruz, Excellently taken goals Blackburn’s Man of the match 9

Blackburn will sign Domovchiyski without giving him a trial (plus video)

By Aries

As first reported on this site, Blackburn’s president John Williams has informed Levski Sofia with a fax that Blackburn would like to bring Domovchiyski to Ewood Park.

But the player himself knows nothing about it:

“I don't know anything connected with my possible transfer. Nobody has told me of Blackburn interest”

This is not a surprise as it appears that Blackburn want to sign Domovchiyski from the Bulgarian champions in the winter transfer window and are ready to start talks immediately.

But Unlike team-mate Nikolay Dimitrov, who is on trial at Arsenal from Monday (with English dictionary in hand), Bulgarian press is reporting that Blackburn are ready to hold talks outright without trying the player out on the football field.

It appears that Mark Hughes and his scouts are very impressed with what they saw either from their scouting missions or from the player’s videos.

Judge for yourselves by viewing the video window on the right hand side of the page.

Sorry guys its players and their mentality that need change not the England coach

By the Coach

Once again, history repeats itself.

Based on the wrong assumption that England has the best players in the World (or something close to it), we all rush to agree that the only thing the FA needs to get right in order to fulfill our destiny and dominate world football is to find and employ one of the best coaches available.

Sorry guys, back in the real world everyone understands that no matter who the coach is it is the players and their mentality that need to change.

To put it differently, perhaps in a manner that should easily be understood by all, if Brazil, Argentina or Italy were to appoint Steve McLaren as their Manager, they will still be winning trophies and rule world football.

Capello is a good coach; no one can deny this. His record speaks of itself. But so was Sven Goran Ericsson. However, it is not just sufficient to have a good coach to head the team. After all, the coach does not get on the pitch to play football. Only the players can do that.

But just as you do not find a top team in the Premier League that is predominantly all English , the same is true for the national side.

Yes, exceptional English players such as Gerrard, Rio Ferdinand, Lampard or Joe Cole can be vital component parts of a team capable of reaching the top in the world.

However, the minute you get eleven English players on the field, the team becomes too square, predictable and lacking in flair, skill, imagination and those distinctive competences that are necessary to succeed and be the best in the World.

As we reiterated in previous articles on this site, the problem is not the nationality of the players but rather the way they are brought up.

In England they learn to play the physical game and they are discouraged from exploring their potential to create (dribbling is a sin in English football).

The value system of coaches, referees and even reporters in England is such that is not conducive to change. Footballers have to fit this stereo-type mould that has been created by the trainers, the officials and the media.

It takes years or even a generation for a culture to change.

But first we need to make a start by realising that the coach is not England’s real problem.

McClaren and Wenger blamed for England’s failure: A nation in denial

England will probably never be a world football power again

Wenger’s “top class” Vela makes everyone sit up and notice against Real (plus Video)

By 1970’s Gooner

I made a point of watching Carlos Vela during the summer in the FIFA Under 20’s World Cup which took place in Canada.

He was after all a relatively recent Arsenal signing and obviously any youngster who is spotted and signed by Wenger must have the special qualities of exceptional technique and skills (coupled with a good character).

I was not that impressed. He was not involved much during the games and stayed peripheral to the action. He was however deployed more in the centre forward areas of the pitch or just behind the forward rather than the wings.

He played in all five matches but Mexico were knocked out at the Quarter-Final stage by eventual winners Argentina.

He has since been loaned out to Osasuna in Spain (he was on loan previously to second Division outfit Salamanca)and has been almost a regular for Osasuna in recent games.

You may remember him scoring a wonderful goal against Real Betis which caught everyone’s attention.

So I made a point of watching him in action again last Saturday in the match against Real Madrid which Osasuna lost 3-0.

I was hugely impressed with his performance as he was a constant thorn on Real Madrid’s defense who had their hands full to contain him. They more often than not reverted to fouling him. He was that quick.

He reminded me of a committed and energetic Reyes who was forever dribbling past his marker with pace and ease only to be felled to the floor unceremoniously. He looks like a carbon copy.

Let’s hope he takes to the English weather better than Reyes did.

He was playing on the left hand side of midfield, as an out and out old fashioned winger. Osasuna’s counter attacking tactics suited his style of play very well. And he certainly ran the line with exceptional technique and skill.

On one occasion he nutmegged Sergio Ramos from a very tight position on the corner line and left him wondering where the ball was. Make a point on watching this particular skill on the video screen on the right hand side of this page.

Vela feels himself richer for the experience having played at the Bernabeu against such high quality opposition:

"These matches are a source of motivation, and we were all keen to play well. We went with the intention of winning and we gave them a good match he said.

When Vela signed a permanent deal at Arsenal at the beginning of the year Wenger was 100% convinced of his ability.

"He's top class. I like his intelligence and his pace. He scores goals but he can also create them. "He's a special talent and I believe 100 per cent that he will make it at the highest level."

Arsene Knows…..

Blackburn set to sign Domovchiyski

By Aries

After Arsenal’s interest in Nicolay Dimitrov another Levski Sofia forward has been attracting interest from Premier League clubs.

Bulgarian press is reporting that this week, a Blackburn agent is to travel to Sofia to hold negotiations with Levski owner, lawyer Todor Batkov, over Valeri Domovchiyski's transfer.

Blackburn president John Williams has informed Levski with a fax that his club would like to bring Domovchiyski to Ewood Park.

Mark Hughes liked Domovchiyski's performance in the qualifiers of Bulgaria's youth team vs England and Ireland.

In the meantime the player himself is apparently being kept in the dark.

"I don't know anything connected with my possible transfer. Nobody has told me of Blackburn interest in me and I cannot make any comments," Domovchiyski said.

Domovchiyski, 21, has played in 117 games in all competitions for the club since making his debut three years ago, scoring 54 goals. He is Levski's top goalscorer this season, with seven strikes in 11 league matches.

He has also won three senior caps for Bulgaria and has attracted interest from Newcastle, Fiorentina, Udinese, Sporting Lisbon and Olympiacos Athens.

Domovchiyski is seen as one of Levski's top youngsters and chairman Todor Batkov has reportedly rebuffed an EUR 2,5 M approach from PSV Eindhoven in the past.

Trialist Dimitrov brings an English dictionary to training

By Aries

As originally reported on this site Arsenal have asked permission from defending Bulgarian champions Levski to take youngster Nikolay Dimitrov (age 20) on trial.

The invitation, signed by Arsene Wenger himself was for one week and starts from today 17th December 2007.

True to his promise Dimitrov flew to London yesterday to begin his trial period clatching along with his baggage an English dictionary.

Bulgarian press are reporting that since his English is not really up to standard he took a dictionary with him so that he could understand what was being said.

Just how this may help him, when he is running around with the ball at London Colney or when Arsene Wenger is giving him instructions, is difficult to fathom.

Maybe his agent Traicho Sokolov who accompanied him to London could be providing the necessary translation.

Dimitrov has played 65 matches for Levski, including 43 starts, since making his senior debut in the 2004/05 season, scoring 12 goals.

Touted as one of Levski's brightest talents, he usually plays on the left side midfield, but has also been deployed as a striker.

As you can see from the video clip of Dimitrov’s exploits for Levski Sofia he looks a very skillful left winger who has a very sweet left foot.

He has a lot of “Wenger” type qualities such as being able to run with the ball at speed, a high level of technical ability and he can score goals. His free kick ability is also very good.

Dimitrov could become Levski's second youngster capped at the under-21 level to join a club from England's "big four". Goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov joined Liverpool this summer.

Also his colleague at Levski, Valeri Domovchiyski is about to join Blackburn Rovers.

Player evaluations and ratings Vs Chelsea

By 1970’s Gooner

A significant victory that not only keeps Arsenal on top of Manchester United but pushes Chelsea further behind in the title race.

Our creativity was back and it was obvious in the first half that our technique was superior to their strength and direct way of playing.

As the returning from injury Arsenal players began to tire in the second half Chelsea pushed forward as they had to do. Tiring legs during the second half meant however that fluency was not at its best nor were cool heads ruling our play.

On another day with 15 minutes to go we would have kept our heads and the ball rather than surge forward, sometimes committing five players in attack trying to get that second goal.

Still a wonderful defensive display in the second half gave us the three points and that is what matters in games like this.

Almunia

Had a very good game indeed. Probably his best game for Arsenal so far. He saved everything that was thrown at him. Apart from saving a first half shot in a rather strange way he was there when he was needed. 8

Sagna

Another strong and solid display. Joe cole did not get much change out of him. Did not venture forward much. 7

Clichy

A wonderful display of both defensive and attacking football from the best left back in the Premier league.

Outshone Ashley Cole hands down.

Thanks for leaving Arsenal Ashley. 8

Toure

I keep repeating myself every game but this is due to this guy’s consistency and dependability, game in game out. 8

Gallas

Wenger obviously knew what he was doing when he appointed Gallas as captain. What a leader and what a powerful defensive display. Comes up with the goals in the important games. 9

Fabregas

He was not match fit and that was obvious form some misplaced passes especially as he got tired in the second half. Still he dictated play as only he can. 8

Flamini

Played as though he was never away injured. The lung capacity of this guy is amazing. Patroled the midfield and protected the defence very well. 8

Rosicky

Was more involved in this game and his tracking back and defending was excellent. Became more dangerous in the second half on the counter attack (which suits his style) as Chelsea committed men forward. 8

Hleb

Had a good first half holding the ball very well and laying balls off in the forward positions. He is an important player in the way the team builds up its attacking play and when he tired in the second half we lost some of our penetration and ball possession. 8

Eboue

Probably the worst Arsenal player and the second worse player on the pitch after Lampard. He kept giving the ball away and was frivolous in possession. He is too anxious and impetuous to lay the ball off rather than wait for a better opportunity to find a team mate. 5

He was stretchered off in the second half after a collision with Joe Cole and looks to have suffered a medial ligament sprain. It would be assessed over the next 48 hours.


Adebayor

Was much better in this game than at Middlesbrough. Played the lone striker role very well shielding the ball from the defenders and playing his team mates in. Became more dangerous as Chelsea opened up in the second half. He will benefit a lot from RVP’s return to the team and the 4 4 2 system which suits him more at this stage of his career. 7

Man of the Match:

William Gallas


Subs


Van Persie (69 m)

Played well when he came on but missed two clear cut chances to put the game to rest. Yet he provided a goal threat that was missing before. When the rust goes away he will be back to his best. 7

Gilberto (78 m)

Looks slower and for this reason tends to foul more than before. Gave away a foul just outside the area in the closing minutes which could have resulted in the equaliser had it not been for Almunia’s good positioning and resultant save. 5


Bendtner (90 m)

Had just about enough time on the pitch to set up Fabregas in on goal which he missed.

Who would Wenger take from Chelsea’s side?

By 1970’s Gooner

Every manager and every fan probably thinks that his team’s players are the best. As Wenger once remarked “every man believes that their wife is the prettiest”.

Well if you had asked Arsene Wenger which Chelsea players if any he would put into the Arsenal side which would he choose?

What follows of course is a personal view and I am sure that a lot of you whether you are Arsenal or Chelsea fans would have different views. But remember football, as many things in life, is all about opinions.

Goalkeeper

For me the choice between Cech and Almunia or even Lehmann is rather straight forward. Almunia really still has to prove himself and suffers from occasional lapses in decision making. And Lehmann’s problems are well documented.

Cech has been almost faultless for Chelsea. He hardly has any weaknesses. He is very good in the air and his positioning and shot stopping are second to none. It takes something special to beat him. Cech it is.

Right back

There’s really no comparison between Sagna and Beletti or Ferrera who has played in that position before. Sagna has taken to the Premiership like a duck to water. Beletti has good technique and is useful going forward but defensively he comes up short. Sagna without a doubt.

Left back

Well what a choice. Ashley Cole Vs Gael Clichy. Who’s the best? Cole has not been at his best since he left Arsenal as many other stars who chose to leave Wenger’s tutelage find out to their cost. Injuries have not helped him of course. But they are very similar players which is not a surprise as it is the master that moulded them into what they are today.

Clichy edges it for me as he has shown more endeavour going forward and his pace has enabled him to compensate some of his positional inexperience.

Centre Backs

Here we have a choice of two between four players. Toure, Gallas, Terry and Carvalho/Alex. All very good defenders and a very difficult choice for anyone to make.

My reasoning tells me that Kolo Toure has to be in the line up as he has pace, positional awareness and tenacity. These attributes are mostly matched by Terry. These leaves out the exceptional Gallas and Carvalho but there can only be two centre backs I am afraid. Alex is not in the same league as any of them.

Wide midfielders

The choice is between Joe Cole, Wright Philips, Rosicky and Hleb. There are others such as Eboue and Walcott from Arsenal and Malouda and maybe Kalou for Chelsea but the first four if fit would probably start for either team.

Philips has pace but his crossing and distribution of the ball still needs to improve. Joe Cole is a more mature player now and can score goals with ease but is not as penetrative as a wide midfielder should be.

Arsenal’s pair of Rosicky and Hleb can be penetrative and very dexterous with the ball. Maybe they could score more goals but their overall play and technical ability puts them easily ahead of the Chelsea pair.

Rosicky and Hleb it is then.

Central midfielders

Essien and Lampard Vs Fabregas and Flamini. We are spoiled for choice again. Of the four I would choose Essien and Fabregas.

Fabregas is undoubtedly the most creative of the four and now he has added goals to his repertoire there is no one better to play that pivotal role of dictating play.

He will need a more defensively minded player next to him as all teams tend to have. I would choose Essien over Flamini as he has more strength, goals and generally more experience.

Forwards

Assuming our system is 4 4 2 then the choice is two from Drogba, Kalou, Shefchenko, Pizzaro, Adebayor ,Van Persie and Bendtner. I think the choice is easy for me.

Drogba’s strength, aerial ability and goal scoring prowess easily edges out the improving Adebayor. And to play along or just behind him what a choice we have in Robin Van Persie who will be able to feed off Drogba’s lay offs with ease. What a powerful combination they would make.

Arsenal Chelsea combined 11

Czech

Sagna Toure Terry Clichy

Rosicky Fabregas Essien Hleb

Drogba Van Persie

Wenger: “England got a Rolls Royce in Capello but still complain when I buy foreign”

By Aries

In an interview given by Arsene Wenger to “France Football” he has characterised the FA’s choice of Fabio Capello as head coach of the England National team as “getting a Rolls Royce. It is a very good choice” he said.

“England has very good players. They cannot call into question the talent of Steven Gerrard or Frank Lampard. But there are things to be corrected in the team, essential things. And Capello is a strong man, capable of finding solutions”.

However he proceeded to point out that there is a paradox in the FA opting for a foreign coach.

“They reproach for me for making use of too many foreign players yet England chooses a foreign selector!”

Arsene Wenger is right of course.

It is indeed rather cynical that Arsenal and Wenger have been heavily criticised for buying mostly foreign players when the country’s own Football Association decides to employ a foreign coach over the available English options!

Wenger: “The signs look very positive in training”. Pendulum turning in Arsenal’s favour

By 1970’s Gooner

Only a week ago it looked as though Arsenal’s injury problems to four of its most important players were going to seriously threaten the chances of victory over Chelsea. A side who have began to find their rhythm again after Mourinho’s sudden departure.

It looked as though Chelsea were about to come into this fixture with Didier Drogba having postponed taking a decision on what to do with his injured knee until at least after the festive season.

His enforced surgery after locking his knee in training however has forced their hand and now their most lethal forward will be missing from the derby.

This is a significant loss as Drogba provides the most important link in a 4 3 3 system that Chelsea usually deploy. He possesses exactly those attributes that can make this system a very potent formation: Strength, aerial ability and goal scoring.

His absence will be a big loss for Chelsea and a big gain for Arsenal. Whatever Wenger says about it.

Grant will have to decide whether he will stick with the 4 3 3 formation or switch to a 4 4 2.

If he decides to play 4 3 3 then either Kalu or Pizzaro will be selected to spearhead it. Shefchenko is not really suited to do that. The problem however is that none of these players is capable of holding the line on their own.

So Chelsea may opt to play a 4 4 2 with any two from the above. However their forward line still looks very lightweight and I would expect that Toure and Gallas will be able to cope against them very well.

Under any scenario you would expect Chelsea’s inspiration to come from their midfield. I do rate Obi Mickel (his football ability not his temperament) but this area of the pitch looks much less strong than if Essien was available.

Frank Lampard usually poses a goal threat with his (often deflected) shots outside the area or from his ghost runs into the box and I would expect Flamini, if he starts, would be detailed to track those runs closely.

The pendulum though can swing even more in Arsenal’s favour with the very encouraging news coming out of London Colney that all three recent absentees, Fabregas, Flamini and Hleb, were back in training again on Friday. And it may turn out that all three may start; plus Van Persie.

Wenger said: "Fabregas, Flamini and Hleb were back in training and I will make a decision on their fitness on Sunday morning.

"I want to leave it as late as possible before making a decision on if they will play. But the signs have looked very positive in training. If Fabregas is fit, he will play."

If, as looks likely, Fabregas and Flamini do play then Arsenal will be a much more complete and balanced outfit on the day.

This is due to the restoration of a strong and creative midfield that was really lacking in the recent away games added to the much more potent strike force now that Van Persie is back in action again. Against Steaua he looked as though he was never away for as long as he was.

Although on recent form Bendtner looked impressive (he was voted as man of the match on this site for the game against Steaua) I would expect Wenger to go with Adebayor who will have benefited having rested for a whole week. He looked very jaded against Middlesbrough.

Prediction: Home win 2-0

Arsenal players train with hands in pockets! (Watch them on video)

By Aries

You would think that playing the beautiful game as the Arsenal players are famed in doing would require balance at least. But it seems that Arsene Wenger has been making the Arsenal players train with their hands in their pockets.

The result is hilarious but as you may see from the video Theo and Fab and the rest of the players are quite good at it. Especially Almunia who has to save shots with his head!

This is the video shot with the Arsenal players and Wenger on behalf of the chosen charity TreeHouse the national charity for autism education. Its title is “Be a Gooner Be a Giver”


Wenger, along with Arsenal’s players and directors, are donating a day’s wages, in total about £100,000.

Donate to ‘Be a Gooner. Be a Giver.’ by going to: www.justgiving.com/beagoonerbeagiver.

Wenger decision on Bulgarian trialist expected in a week (Dimitrov on video)

By Aries

Arsenal have asked permission from defending Bulgarian champions Levski to take youngster Nikolay Dimitrov on trial. The invitation, signed by Arsene Wenger himself is for one week.

Levski manager Stanimir Stoilov said:

"Nikolay Dimitrov will go to London in the near future. I am very happy for him because he is young and very talented and an invitation from Arsene Wenger is high praise not only for him, but for us as club too,"

Dimitrov, 20, has played 65 matches for Levski, including 43 starts, since making his senior debut in the 2004/05 season, scoring 12 goals.

Touted as one of Levski's brightest talents, he usually plays on the left side midfield, but has also been deployed as a striker.

As you can see from the video clip of Dimitrov’s exploits for Levski Sofia he looks a very skillful left winger who has a very sweet left foot.

He has a lot of “Wenger” type qualities such as being able to run with the ball at speed, a high level of technical ability and he can score goals. His free kick ability is also very good.

Dimitrov could become Levski's second youngster capped at the under-21 level to join a club from England's "big four". Goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov joined Liverpool this summer.

Sources say that Dimitrov’s trial will start as early as from next Monday 17th December.



Nikolay Dimitrov Fact File:

Date of birth : 15 October 1987 (age 20)

Place of birth : Rousse, Bulgaria

Height : 1.74m

Weight: 64kg

Playing position: Midfielder

Adebayor and two Chelsea players in short list for African Player of the Year

By Aries

A shortlist of five has been released by the Confederation of African Football for African Player of the Year.

It consists of Emmanuel Adebayor of Arsenal and Togo along with Chelsea’s Michael Essien and Didier Drogba, who was also last year’s winner and Mali internationals Fredi Kanoute and Mamadou Diarra of Sevilla and Real Madrid in Spain.

The winner of the award will be announced at the annual African Footballer of the Year awards in Lome Togo on February 1.

Essien, who was third in the last two polls, will be hoping to be third time lucky this time after a season in which he was one of Chelsea’s best performers.

Emmanuel Adebayor, a Togolese international, will be hoping to beat Essien to the title. He told Ghana TV station TV3 that he will be thrilled to be named the winner of the award in his home town.

“I have always dreamt about that, he said. I will be happy to wear an African cloth or a suit and a tie and walk up the podium to pick up that honour. I am confident in my talent and know if I don’t do it this year, I will do it some other time,” he said.

The winner of the award will be chosen from the shortlist by 53 African coaches.

Van Persie and 4 4 2 return for Chelsea. Cesc may be back too

By 1970’s Gooner

Could Manchester United have managed without Rooney, Ronaldo and Vidic, three of their most influential players, for say three consecutive away games? They may get away with it for a game or so but not three on the trot. In fact Manchester United’s recent defeat at Bolton was with a team that was deprived exactly those three players.

Could Chelsea be as efficient if Terry, Lampard and Drogba were missing from a particular game? In fact most of the points they dropped at the start of the season were due to the absence of these players.

Arsenal in comparison have done well considering that not three but four of their most important players this season have been missing for the last four games and nearly all three away successive games: Fabregas, Flamini, Hleb and Robin Van Persie.

This is irrespective of Arsene Wenger’s selection policy in replacing the injured midfielders.

So after the draw at Newcastle and the depressing defeat at Middlesbrough it is with some relief that Robin Van Persie has been training freely at London Colney and has started and performed so well against Steaua.

He has been out since damaging his knee playing for Holland against Slovenia as far back as two months ago from the middle of October. Adebayor has been leading the line mostly on his own and it has become obvious that he needs a second forward with him for support.

Arsene Wenger was probably averse to giving support to Adebayor when RVP was absent as he was probably unsure whether Eduardo or Bendtner were ready to play that role.

In fact he preferred Hleb instead in a 4 4 1 1 formation. This in practice turned into a 4 5 1 as Hleb had the tendency to veer towards the middle of the pitch and try and organize play rather than stay nearer Adebayor as a second forward.

When Hleb became unavailable Eduardo was given his chance at Newcastle and Middlesbrough but failed to impress.

Van Persie’s return to fitness means that Arsene Wenger can now revert to his preferred 4 4 2 again with a player who is used to performing under that system.

Van Persie himself said: "I am fit if the boss picks me. I am available. However, I am not 100% yet. "I can easily make 60-65 minutes”.

Even if it is only for an hour Van Persie should start on Sunday.

And there may be some more good news for Arsenal. It appears that Fabregas has been pushing for a return to action, no doubt against Chelsea on Sunday.

Arsene Wenger has said that "Cesc is very impatient, but he is not back yet. We haven't set any date for his return yet. He is with the medical people being treated and he is working very hard”.

Cesc has been out of action since limping out of the Champions League clash in Sevilla on November 27 due to a hamstring problem.

Straining of the hamstring, also known as a pulled hamstring, is defined as an excessive stretch or tear of muscle fibers and related tissues.


My medical friends inform me that hamstring strains are usually classified under three grades: I, II and III. Grade I is the mildest strain and a slight feeling of pain when the muscles are stretched or contracted.

With a Grade II strain there is immediate pain which is more severe than the pain of a grade one injury. Grade III is what is known as a torn muscle which may require surgery.

As a general rule, Grade I hamstring strains should be rested from sporting activity for about 3 weeks and grade two injuries for about 4 to 6 weeks. In the case of a complete rupture, the muscle will have to be repaired surgically and the rehabilitation afterwards will take about 3 months.

By next Sunday Fabregas would have been out of action for 20 days; that is nearly three weeks ago. If his injury was a grade I type then he must be very close to a come back.

Now whether Wenger will risk playing him with the chance of the injury recurring is another matter. He will have to rely on the medical team’s advice who have done a magnificent job in getting Van Persie back into action.

“Van Persie is ready physically,” said Wenger. “But we have some other players who are injured like Fabregas, like Hleb and Flamini. “Though I will certainly have to take a gamble on one or two”.

Flamini has been reported to be very near fitness and should be back for Sunday. So if Wenger takes a gamble he may have to decide between Cesc and Hleb.

A difficult choice but since it was in central midfield that problems were more apparent recently he may, all things being equal, lean towards Fabregas.

Arsenal Player Evaluations and Ratings Vs Steaua

By 1970’s Gooner

A very impressive performance in the first half with two well taken goals by Diaby and Bendtner. But again became too complacent in the second half and with the disruptions of the substitutions Steaua was allowed to come back into the game when they scored their goal.

Nevertheless the big plus was of course Robin Van Persie’s return to action.

Lehmann

Did not have much to do. He did manage though to give us a scare when instead of clearing the ball he elected to dribble the oncoming forward! He also miskicked a clearance which thankfully went to an Arsenal player. I thought he was slightly out of position for the header which led to the goal and as a result could not react timely. 6

Sagna

Was solid and dependable as usual and did get a number of crosses in from the right. He gave the assist for Diaby’s goal. He is being credited with a lot of assists lately. I think he has three in the Premiership already. 7

Traore

A positive performance with a lot of forays in the forward wide position a la Clichy. Lacks positional awareness in defense and was for this reason vulnerable when Steaua attacked from that flank. As with Clichy, who suffers from the same weakness, his speed of recovery usually bailed him out. 6

Gallas

Strong and solid performance from the captain. 7

Senderos

Had a decent performance. Did not make any mistakes of note but the opponents were not really pushing forward too much especially in the first half. 7

Song

Played in his preferred position in central midfield but his passing let him down especially in the first half. 6

Denilson

I was impressed by Denilson again. He won the ball well and also distributed it accurately and quickly which is what is required in Wenger’s teams as they deploy very speedily when the ball is won. His ball control was also very good but most importantly he plays intelligently, on and off the ball .8

Walcott

Showed us what tremendous speed he has. He was getting pass his markers as though they were not there. Sometimes giving them a five yard start! He got into a few scoring positions but his finishing let him down. 7

Diaby

Considering he was coming back from a period of inactivity he was very good in the first half and took his goal very well. He was using his strength to most effect and was involved in most things that were good for Arsenal. He inevitably tired in the second half. 8

Bendtner

I was impressed with Nicklas again. He was good both in the air, he hardly missed a header, and also on the ground. He shields the ball very well and brings other players in the game. He scored a fine goal by creating the space for himself in order to receive the ball from RVP and took it like a veteran. 8

Robin Van Persie

He played as though he was never away! Excellent control and passing. Gave the assist for Bendtner’s goal and also played his role just behind the front man very well. 8

Subs:

Eduardo (65m)

Looked sharper and created a chance for himself when in on a one on one with the goalkeeper. His lob did not come off however. 6

Diarra (71m)

Strong and tenacious in the tackle. Laid a wonderful 30 yard through ball for Eduardo which put him through on goal.6

Eboue (71m)

Replaced Sagna at right back. Played well and made some key interceptions in front of Lehmann when Steaua were getting dangerous in the latter stages of the game. 7

Man of the Match: Denilson

Arsenal B side for Steaua

By 1970's Gooner

After the last two abject performances in the Champions League against Slavia Prague (draw) and Sevilla (defeat) Arsenal find themselves in second place in group H behind Seville.

Qualification is guaranteed but Arsenal can finish top of the group if they defeat Steaua and Sevilla fail to beat Slavia in Prague.

Finishing first in the group has certain important advantages of course. You get drawn against a second placed team from another group and get to play the first game in this two legged knock out phase, away.

However there are two major reasons why Arsene Wenger may consider fielding an Arsenal B side for the game against Steaua Bucharest at the Emirates.

The first concerns the current state of injuries in the club which have deprived the team of very important players like Van Persie, Fabregas, Hleb and Flamini. What you do not want is to risk further long term injuries to any “first team” player such as Van Persie.


Can you imagine if Toure or Gallas was in the starting eleven against Steaua and subsequently got injured? Or even if the same happened to Clichy?

Any more injuries will severely overstretch an already thin squad to the full. And you cannot risk having any more long term absentees with the crucial run of games during the Xmas period and beyond.

Arsene Wenger himself admitted that he rued playing Fabregas in Spain.

"I should not even have played Fabregas at Sevilla. I ended up losing him to injury.”

This is where Fabregas picked his hamstring injury which has kept him away from the recent run of away games where Arsenal dropped points. It will also keep him out of the Chelsea game.

The second reason of course is the forthcoming game against Chelsea on Sunday. The draw at Newcastle and defeat at Middlesbrough last Sunday has removed the buffer that Arsenal had over its immediate rivals.

A further slip up against Chelsea means that not only will the remaining point lead is likely to evaporate but more importantly the psychological impact will be so bad and morale will sink to such low levels that the whole campaign could be badly derailed.

So it is imperative that no more unnecessary risks are taken and that no more players are missing against Chelsea even if it means running the risk of not finishing top of the group.

So let’s give some deserved rest to as many players as we can and give the fringe players a chance to show what they can do. Arsene Wenger has said that it will be no Carling Cup side. Well it may be an Arsenal B side instead.


Lehmann

Hoyte Song Senderos Traore

Walcott Diaby Gilberto Denilson

Eduardo Bendtner

Bench: Fabiansky, Van Persie, Eboue, Diarra, Sagna

Arsenal Player Evaluations and Ratings Vs Middlesbrough

By 1970's Gooner

Almunia:

Came out too early in the penalty incident and in a way forced Toure into making the foul on Alliadiere. Otherwise did ok. 6

Sagna:

Not his usual self. His passing was sloppy and was not as offensively minded as per usual. Maybe Middlesbrough’s pushing tight from the front had something to do with it. 5

Clichy:

The same goes for Gael as for Sagna. Sloppy passing and no forward movement of note until late in the game. 5

Toure:

Just about one of a few Arsenal players to do ok. Went forward when required but more often than not kept playing those long balls to Adebayor. Maybe an indication that the Arsenal midfield could not be trusted especially since they were tightly marked. This wasn’t the case when Denilson came on by the way. 6

Gallas:

Solid game again but could not do much in the general malaise that was so evident throughout the team. 6

Eboue:

Had his usual game which means he was part good part frivolous. Did not connect much with Sagna when they tried to penetrate from the wing. 6

Rosicky;

Showed desire to get on the ball but his wide position did not allow him to do much with it when he got it as the rest of his team mates were not up to it. Well taken goal. 7

Diarra:

Did not perform as well as against Newcastle. He tends to delay the pass when he wins the ball and his passing quality was below average. 5

Gilberto:

He is getting slower and slower. He tries to do enough just to win the ball and even this he could not do well. No wonder Flamini was the preferred choice at the beginning of the season. 5

Eduardo:

Another inept performance. 4

Adebayor:

Out of the game completely. His control was abysmal and his positioning and running off the ball were as though he was in day dream land. 4

Subs:

Bendtner:

Looked useful but did not have enough time to make a mark really. 6

Denilson:

Had a decent game when he came on the field. Looked positive and had the quality in his passing that Gilberto and Diarra didn’t. Maybe should have started the game. 6

Walcott:

Had some of those pacy runs and looked dangerous on the wing. 6


Arsenal can win at Middlesbrough by dropping Eduardo and playing Rosicky central

Pathetic Mr Wenger

By 1970’s Gooner

What a pathetic performance. What a pathetic choice of formation and pathetic choice of players to play in that formation.

Arsene Wenger must have seen that recently the team were struggling to cover for a passenger of a player called Eduardo. And you can not really play with ten men in the Premier League. Although it has to be said that the rest of the players had a bad game.

He must have also seen in the previous two games that the two central midfielders Diarra and Gilberto were just about average in terms of winning the ball but significantly lacking in being creative.

And when the opponents are pushing tight on you it’s not only strength that you need but skill. Fabregas and Hleb used to provide it but now that they could not play surely Rosicky should have been the one to play just behind Adebayor.

It was bleeding obvious that this was evidently lacking in all the three away games that Arsenal played. We were lucky that with Hleb and Flamini in the side against Villa we got enough goals in the first half to scrape through.

But when these two were missing against Newcastle we were lucky to score in the 4th minute and then had to defend that for the rest of the game.

This was because again Mr Wenger still played Eduardo, who was again a passenger and deprived the midfield of any creativity by keeping Rosicky on the wing.

Arsene Wenger usually gets these things right but when he gets them wrong boy does he get them wrong. Isn’t there anyone in the Arsenal boot room to say anything to him?

Arsenal can win at Middlesbrough by dropping Eduardo and playing Rosicky central

Arsenal can win at Middlesbrough by dropping Eduardo and playing Rosicky central

By 1970’s Gooner

Eduardo has failed to impress in any of his starts for Arsenal. He has not adopted to the Premier League yet and he is even finding it difficult to combine with his fellow players.

He doesn’t seem to be on the same wave length with them and has been rather peripheral in terms of impact. His worst performance was against Newcastle where he made the mistake in not clearing the ball away from goal or even out of play which led to the equaliser.

Arsene Wenger will have to drop him from this away encounter at the Riverside and give him more time on the training ground and in the Carling and FA Cup games to get more acclimatized. I think he has the qualities to come good but like Pires he needs time.

The second change that Wenger must surely make is the most obvious one to me. The team is lacking in creativity in the central areas of the pitch.

At Newcastle Arsene, had to choose a side that could not include Flamini and Hleb. Just like against Wigan, when these two players were also missing, he went for more defensive and destructive players in central midfield. On this occasion Gilberto and Diarra. Rosicky the only creative midfielder left standing was marginalised on the left wing.

The end result, as feared by many, including this site, was that there was no creativity again (other sites were predicting an easy win even with a “depleted midfield”).

There was no one to dictate play in the crucial central areas of the field starving the forwards of the service they deserved.

So Arsene has to change the formation and accommodate Rosicky in a more central role.

This can be achieved in a 4 2 1 3 formation with two central defensive midfielders (any two from Gilberto, Diarra, Denilson and Song) sitting behind Rosicky with three forwards in front of him: Adebayor flanked by Eboue and say Walcott or Denilson but not Eduardo.

Prediction: Away win 0-2

Wenger thinks very highly of Benzema

By Aries

You may remember when we last reported that Arsene Wenger was appointed Castrol Ambassador for Euro 2008.

He has recently in this capacity been speaking to Eurosport assessing each team’s chances for glory in the Euro 2008 championships next summer.

He has pinpointed Karim Benzema, the Lyon striker, as the player that could make a big impact saying that he could be “an immense revelation”. He also showed that he knew a lot about the player’s performance statistics:

“I think Benzema could emerge as a big surprise. He is 20-years-old, in France he scored 11 goals in 10 games and he has fantastic efficiency”.

"But he is also a good link player, he is not only a goalscorer, and I believe he could be an immense revelation at the European Championship."

He obviously looks like a typical Wenger player who has the technique and flexibility to play in more than one position.

Benzema along with fellow Lyon player Hatem Ben Arfa have been coveted by a host of European clubs ever since they burst into Lyon’s first team.


Arsenal were reported to have sent scouts to watch Benzema last October when he scored against Lyon’s victory over Monaco.

Wenger, if he is interested in bidding for the player in the transfer window, is likely to face competition from Milan, Inter and Juventus, who have also been tracking Benzema.

However Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has said the Benzema and Arfa are going nowhere.

"It is out of the question that they are leaving us," he said last month.

However Michael Essien, Mahamadou Diarra, Florent Malouda and Eric Abidal all left Lyon after similar comments from Aulas!


Rosicky Holds the Key to Riverside Lock

Wenger enters the world of advertising but with a touch of class

Mputu to sign for Arsenal for a six month period. Watch him on video

By Aries

Tresor Mputu, as has recently been reported on this site, has finished a ten day trial at Arsenal which has been described by his agent as successful.

This trial period ended at the beginning of this month and it is now reported that Wenger was so impressed with Mputu that he has instructed Arsenal’s top management to open negotiations with the player’s African club TP Mazembe.

His agent was so optimistic that he predicted that his client was as good as ready to sign by next Monday!

Now Arsene Wenger has more or less confirmed this news when in his press conference today admitted that he may be interested to sign Mputu.

"He has qualities, but he has never played in Europe. In the middle of a season, to buy a guy from Congo and think he will give you something more is a little bit optimistic”.

That is why he is considering signing him for the rest of the season and reassessing the situation in the light of his progress by then.

"Maybe we'll pursue it, but it will be on a six to seven-month plan, you know, you get the guy in to adapt, and then we'll see how well he does."

Mputu was top scorer in the African Champions League and scored five goals in ten appearances for the Democratic Republic of Congo.


Former Congo coach Claude Le Roy described Mputu as better than Samuel Eto'o!

You can watch Mputu's football skills on the top of the page by clicking on the video window.

As you can see from the videos we have assembled Tresor is a cool finisher in front of goal.

He is also blessed with pace and good technique which is of course a sine qua non for any player if he is to be given half a chance of making it to London Colney.

It has been reported that his transfer price will be 500,000


Rosicky Holds the Key to Riverside Lock

Rosicky Holds the Key to Riverside Lock

By 1970’s Gooner

Eleven days ago Arsenal faced a Wigan side that tasted defeat in its previous seven games. Absent from this game were two of the most creative midfielders Arsene Wenger has ever assembled: Cesc Fabregas and the Minsk Maradona, Alexander Hleb. Also missing was the magnificent Flamini.

What was evident during that game was that there was neither leadership nor forward penetration coming from the midfield. There was no one to take up the mantle and dictate play the way that Fabregas usually provides.

Both Denilson and Diarra, the chosen pair for the two central midfield positions, were content to win the ball and play it safe.

It wasn’t until Wenger moved a more forceful and creative player, Rosicky, into that area behind Adebayor and the midfield when things changed.

Arsenal suddenly had forward movement and urgency and as a result were circling round Wigan’s area pushing them back more and more. In the 80th minute Gallas stepped up to score and it was game over.

A week later Arsenal traveled to Birmingham to face a very strong and in form Aston Villa. The starting eleven however included two players that were missing against Wigan: Flamini and Hleb.

Flamini’s tireless and powerful display along with Hleb’s fantastic trickery and forward creativity make the difference and Arsenal’s brilliance and domination results in two goals in the first half.

It wasn’t until Hleb’s injury in the second half that Villa assumed the initiative. But Arsenal were already a goal ahead by then and only had to hold out for about 30 minutes.

At Newcastle four days later Arsene, had to choose a side that could not include Flamini and Hleb. Just like against Wigan, when these two players were also missing, he went again for more defensive and destructive players in central midfield. On this occasion Gilberto and Diarra.

Rosicky was, as for the Wigan game, again marginalised on the left wing.

The end result, as feared by many, including this site, was that there was no creativity again (other sites were predicting an easy win even with a “depleted midfield”).

There was no one to dictate play in the crucial central areas of the field starving the forwards of the service they deserved.

As Arsene Wenger said after the game:

“I feel that technically we did not find the right solutions when we won the ball back to get them out of position. That made their physical game easier for them”.

Newcastle are not Wigan. They played tenaciously and pressed Arsenal in all areas inclusive high up the pitch. Just like Aston Villa did in the second half. And more importantly Arsenal did not and could not be creative enough to score a second goal.

On Sunday Arsene has to choose a side to face Middlesbrough which again cannot contain Flamini and Hleb.

Will he still insist on keeping the only remaining creative midfielder away from the area where the team is clearly lacking?

An area from where he could provide the link between the forward line and the middle of the pitch that was so missing against Newcastle?

Football coaches say that a lot of the time they have to adjust their tactics and formations to suit the players they have available. And it looks that Arsene may now have to twig the formation a bit to accommodate Rosicky in a more central role.

And the system that will allow him to do that is a 4 2 1 3 formation with two central defensive midfielders (any two from Gilberto, Diarra, Denilson and Song) sitting behind Rosicky with three forwards in front of him: Adebayor flanked by Eboue and say Walcott (not Eduardo).

Middlesbrough are not the type of team nor do they have the players to pressure Arsenal up the pitch like Newcastle and Aston Villa did. And in ex Arsenal boy Alliadiere and the Turk Tuncay they do not possess a particularly potent strike force.

However Arsenal will still need to be creative and Rosicky can play a significant role in making it seven away points out of a possible nine.


Three reasons why Newcastle will be a tough nut to break

Six changes Wenger made this season are propelling Arsenal to the title.

Medical reports on Henry suggest Wenger was right to sell him

By Aries

Arsene Wenger has a reputation for scouting and selecting the best talent from all over the world who once put through his close and astute tutelage at London Colney more often than not emerge to become stars and world renown.

Wenger however should be given equal acclaim for doing, in terms of transfer deals, the opposite: Knowing when to let go of a player.

He has done it so many times in the past and he has an uncanny way of getting it right. Overmars, Petit, Vieira have all struggled to varying degrees after they departed. But the fees received have all been lucrative especially when considered in hindsight.

One transfer, the biggest and most talked about was that of Henry. Arguably the best player to play for Arsenal and probably in the Premier League. At the time the size of the transfer fee, a mere 16m, raised eyebrows.

Now, what a lot of people suspected, appears to be coming true. Reports coming out of Barcelona are indicating that the back injury which sidelined Henry for five months in his last season at Arsenal has returned and it is so serious that he is out “indefinitely”.

Barcelona club doctors have warned that his "chronic" condition has no cure and tends to deteriorate with age.

Apparently he has been diagnosed as suffering a dehydration of the inter vertebral disc L5-S1 in his lower back. It is believed that his condition dated back a number of years.

Barcelona's former vice-president Sandro Rosell said: "Whoever signed him deserves a clip round the ear"


Three reasons why Newcastle will be a tough nut to break

Will Henry succeed at Barcelona?

Four Arsenal players score high ratings in the Premiership Team of the Week

By Aries

Eurosport tend to like devising their own ratings lists. You will remember when on this site we reported recently about their top 20 European teams.

This list was, prior to the defeat at Seville, headed by Arsenal due to their excellent unbeaten form in the Premier League and in Europe.

Eurosport have also devised a way of arriving at the top Premier League player for each position every week. This is done by using the player ratings as reported by five national newspapers, Guardian, Times, Sun, Mirror and Mail.

The top performer of the past week was Wenger reject David Bentley, following his two-goal display for Blackburn against Newcastle, with a rating of 43 (out of 50).

Arsenal’s Alex Hleb described as the "Minsk Maradona" with his magical display at Villa is joint second with Fernando Torres of Liverpool with 41 marks.

Three of Arsenal’s French contingent also make it in the super 11. They are Bakary Sagna (35), Gael Clichy (35) and Mathieu Flamini (39).

Surprisingly no Manchester United player makes it on the list.

Team of the Week:

Brad Friedel (Blackburn Rovers)- 36

Bacary Sagna (Arsenal) - 35
Joleon Lescott (Everton) - 39
Martin Laursen (Aston Villa) - 38
Gael Clichy (Arsenal) - 35

David Bentley (Blackburn Rovers) - 43
Mathieu Flamini (Arsenal) - 39
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) - 38
Joe Cole (Chelsea) - 36

Alexander Hleb (Arsenal) - 41
Fernando Torres (Liverpool) - 41


Three reasons why Newcastle will be a tough nut to break

Manchester United overtake Arsenal to head list of top 20 European Clubs

Arsenal Players Ratings Vs Newcastle

By 1970’s Gooner

A difficult game against a strong and determined Newcastle side who played with tenacity and vigour. As feared in my preview of the game, Three reasons why Newcastle will be a tough nut to break, Arsenal lacked creativeness in midfield where Diarra and Gilberto although good at winning the ball couldn’t use it in a constructive manner.

These are my ratings of the Arsenal players.

Almunia: Was decisive and safe. Becoming more assured the more games he plays. Came out of his area with pace to clear well when needed and was commanding in the air. 7

Sagna: Had an average game but did not venture as much forward as he normally does. 6

Toure: His usual strong and commanding performance. 7

Gallas: Had his usual strong game and played as a captain.7

Clichy: Not his usual self. Made a few sloppy passes and did not feature as much as usual in the forward positions. 6

Rosicky: Had a quiet game on the wing and started influencing things when he was moved into the middle of the pitch. Faded out again when Bendtner came on and he had to move back to the wing again. 6

Diarra: Very tenacious and strong in his challenges. He tended to delay his passes though which slowed Arsenal’s attacks and gave the opponents the chance to challenge him again! 6

Gilberto: Was rather slower than usual and did not look match fit to me. Some of his passes went astray. 5

Eboue: getting better with more games and a sublime of an assist cross again for Adebayor’s goal. But faded in the second half. 6

Eduardo: Still has not come to terms with the Premiership and with the rest of his team mates I think. He doesn’t seem to be on the same wave length with them and was rather peripheral again. He was put in a difficult spot by Adebayor’s pass but he made the mistake in not clearing the ball away from goal or even out of play which led to the equalizer. 4

Adebayor: Was commanding in the air and scored a magnificent goal. His control and distribution again found wanting. Faded in the second half. 7

Bendtner: Tried his best under difficult circumstances. Won practically all the headers he went for. 6


Three reasons why Newcastle will be a tough nut to break

Three reasons why Newcastle will be a tough nut to break

By 1970’s Gooner

There has been a lot of euphoric sentiment about Arsenal this past few days and justifiably so as that win over Aston Villa epitomized what has been so good this season as compared to last.

The scintillating performance of the first and the fighting spirit of the second half have further instilled confidence in players and fans alike that this team can go all the way.

Amidst all this lies the visit to St James’s Park to face a Newcastle side who have been shipping goals in by the bucketful recently; three away at Blackburn and another three at home against Liverpool the week before.

However this fixture against Arsenal has the potential of turning into a banana skin and there are three reasons for this.

1. “The backlash effect”

The Newcastle players are likely to rally round so as to answer criticism that there’s no revolt from within their ranks.

There has been a lot of criticism of Allardyce from fans and if you believe the papers from some of the players. Whether this is true or not is another matter.

What will matter however is that, as has often been noticed with teams that are under pressure, the players rally round.


They rally round each other and round their manager. They want to prove to every fan watching on the terraces or in their sitting rooms in front of the telly that they are up to it.

That they can turn things round. That they are the players who will get the club out of this mess.

And don't forget there’s the January transfer window looming close where their own heads might be on the block.

2. “The Bolton effect”

"When under pressure go back to what you do best especially if it worked before under similar circumstances. Arsenal are back in town after all".

I don’t believe Big Sam when he says that this Newcastle side cannot adopt the same tactics as Bolton used to do so successfully against Arsenal in the past.


Sam Allardyce will adopt Bolton “in your face” type of tactics and he has the players to do it. Players like Viduka and Smith in attack and Barton and Butt in midfield.

He will have seen how Aston Villa pinned the Gunners in their own half in the second period last Saturday and he will want to do the same. By pressing higher up the field and sticking close, intimidating players and in your face type of marking.

3. “The injury effect”

Arsenal are missing influential midfield and forward players. This did not prove to be a significant problem up to now as the strength in depth available to Wenger proved to be just that.

The players in the current squad are so flexible and technically skilled that they can play in more than one position. Hleb for example has played on the wing, as a support forward to Adebayor and as a central midfielder. Rosicky has done the same.

But now the injury list is so long even this dearth of options and combinations is beginning to run out for Wenger. In attack we have Van Persie missing. In midfield we have Fabregas, Flamini, Hleb and Diaby out.


It’s not as though there are no available players to fill in. Gilberto, Diara and Denilson will be available for the midfield positions and Eduardo or even Bendtner or Rosicky can play in attack.

However it is the quality and creativeness that Fabregas, Flamini and Hleb used to bring that will be missed. And it is this attribute that usually unlocks defences and tight marking.

It was evidently absent the last time that these three players were missing. Against Wigan Arsenal struggled for 80 minutes to find a way to goal and it was not until Gallas stepped up and took matters into his own hands that victory was achieved.

Maybe we will need another inspirational moment from an unlikely source again tonight.

Three reasons why Newcastle will be a tough nut to break

By 1970’s Gooner

There has been a lot of euphoric sentiment about Arsenal this past few days and justifiably so as that win over Aston Villa epitomized what has been so good this season as compared to last.

The scintillating performance of the first and the fighting spirit of the second half have further instilled confidence in players and fans alike that this team can go all the way.

Amidst all this lies the visit to St James’s Park to face a Newcastle side who have been shipping goals in by the bucketful recently; three away at Blackburn and another three at home against Liverpool the week before.

However this fixture against Arsenal has the potential of turning into a banana skin and there are three reasons for this.

1. “The backlash effect”

The Newcastle players are likely to rally round so as to answer criticism that there’s no revolt from within their ranks.

There has been a lot of criticism of Allardyce from fans and if you believe the papers from some of the players. Whether this is true or not is another matter.

What will matter however is that, as has often been noticed with teams that are under pressure, the players rally round.


They rally round each other and round their manager. They want to prove to every fan watching on the terraces or in their sitting rooms in front of the telly that they are up to it.

That they can turn things round. That they are the players who will get the club out of this mess.

And don't forget there’s the January transfer window looming close where their own heads might be on the block.

2. “The Bolton effect”

"When under pressure go back to what you do best especially if it worked before under similar circumstances. Arsenal are back in town after all".

I don’t believe Big Sam when he says that this Newcastle side cannot adopt the same tactics as Bolton used to do so successfully against Arsenal in the past.


Sam Allardyce will adopt Bolton “in your face” type of tactics and he has the players to do it. Players like Viduka and Smith in attack and Barton and Butt in midfield.

He will have seen how Aston Villa pinned the Gunners in their own half in the second period last Saturday and he will want to do the same. By pressing higher up the field and sticking close, intimidating players and in your face type of marking.

3. “The injury effect”

Arsenal are missing influential midfield and forward players. This did not prove to be a significant problem up to now as the strength in depth available to Wenger proved to be just that.

The players in the current squad are so flexible and technically skilled that they can play in more than one position. Hleb for example has played on the wing, as a support forward to Adebayor and as a central midfielder. Rosicky has done the same.

But now the injury list is so long even this dearth of options and combinations is beginning to run out for Wenger. In attack we have Van Persie missing. In midfield we have Fabregas, Flamini, Hleb and Diaby out.


It’s not as though there are no available players to fill in. Gilberto, Diara and Denilson will be available for the midfield positions and Eduardo or even Bendtner or Rosicky can play in attack.

However it is the quality and creativeness that Fabregas, Flamini and Hleb used to bring that will be missed. And it is this attribute that usually unlocks defences and tight marking.

It was evidently absent the last time that these three players were missing. Against Wigan Arsenal struggled for 80 minutes to find a way to goal and it was not until Gallas stepped up and took matters into his own hands that victory was achieved.

Maybe we will need another inspirational moment from an unlikely source again tonight.

Arsenal table concrete offer to Mputu

By Aries

Tresor Mputu, as has recently been reported on this site, has finished a ten day trial at Arsenal which has been described by his agent as successful.

This trial period ended at the beginning of this month and it is now reported that Wenger was so impressed with Mputu that he has instructed Arsenal’s top management to open negotiations with the player’s African club TP Mazembe.

Mputu’s agent Bajo Bujani has said that Tresor has also attracted interest from Spanish club, Sevilla.

“While Sevilla have also shown great interest, I believe Tresor will end up in England. Arsenal have given TP Mazembe until Monday to respond to their offer and I’m convinced that the deal will be completed after the weekend,”

The pint-sized but highly skilful forward currently tops the Caf Champions League goalscoring table with 11 goals to his name.


Wenger, a shrewd transfer dealer, would obviously like to get his man before he bursts on the scene and his value sky rockets.

Former Congo coach Claude Le Roy described Mputu as better than Samuel Eto'o!

You can watch Mputu's football skills on the top of the page by clicking on the video window.

As you can see from the videos we have assembled Tresor is a cool finisher in front of goal.

He is also blessed with pace and good technique which is of course a sine qua non for any player if he is to be given half a chance of making it to London Colney.

He can also kick where it hurts!

Tresor Mabi Mputu Fact File:

Date of Birth 10 December 1985
Country Democratic Republic of the Congo
Playing position Striker
Current club TP Mazembe
Number 8

Six changes Wenger made this season are propelling Arsenal to the title. Last Part

By 1970’s Gooner

Back in May of this year when Arsenal were stumbling to fourth place in the Premier League I felt the need to write an article on what Arsenal needed to do to challenge for the coming season.

It was written in frustration of the so many things that Arsene Wenger needed to fix that to me and many other fellow gooners were so obviously apparent.

In that article all Arsenal’s weaknesses were deemed to be correctable as a lot of the changes needed involved a change of attitude or better coaching and organisation on the pitch rather than radical surgery in the personnel.

So what has changed from last season to this?

- The defence has tightened up
- Learned how to break up packed defenses
- Now kill teams off when on top
- Have become more physical and learned how to win ugly
- Hit the ground running
- Goals are shared round

In an earlier posting I dealt with the first three changes that have transformed Arsenal this season. This posting can be found by clicking here.

This is the second and last part dealing with the last three changes.

4. Have become more physical and learned how to win ugly

Arsenal have adopted a more physical approach to their game. An approach that says : “if you play football we will play football. If you want to rough it up a bit we will do the same. We will not be intimidated”

This started as early as pre season at the Amsterdam Tournament where Ajax of all teams tried it on but to their surprise found that the young guns could dish it back. It continued against Sparta Prague in the Champions League.


Arsenal have shown this season that when the team is not playing well, when things are not going according to plan that they can summon the guts, determination and tenacity to turn negatives into positives and win ugly or get a positive result if required.

Prime examples are of course the two come backs against Liverpool and Manchester United as well as the victories over Bolton, Fulham, West Ham and the unlucky draw at Blackburn.

The ultimate example of course is the victory over a very strong Aston Villa side.

5. Hit the ground running

Both Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have made the point that starting the season on the right foot sets the tone for the remainder.

It allows the team to get more confidence to see themselves up there at the top with the other protagonists and to be talked about as possible contenders for the Championship.

It’s almost a confidence trick but nevertheless significant when the team consists mainly of young and relatively inexperienced kids.

And Arsenal have certainly done that. Granted, the fixture list has been kind and the postponement of the tough Newcastle away game early in the season removed a possible banana skin so early in the campaign.

Now with confidence high this fixture doesn’t look so difficult as it may have looked back in August.

6. Goals are shared round

The absence of Henry not only forced the rest of the players to take responsibility for themselves it also resulted in the goals being shared around. The team was creating chances by the handful last season but the conversion rate was abysmal.

This season Arsenal are the top scorers in the League with the 31 goals scored by 10 players. But only 13 of those goals have been scored by the two forwards Adebayor (8) and Van Persie (5).

This sharing around has meant that the midfielders are getting on the score sheet. In fact the midfielders have scored one more goal than the forwards.


Fabregas already has 6, Rosicky 3, Flamini 2 and even Hleb who last year was afraid to try his luck has 2. Diaby has also scored.


Epilogue

There is one change however that Arsene Wenger is not responsible for. At least not directly.

And this concerns the vast improvement in all the players, young and not so young, who with more exposure and experience in the Premier League have grown more mature and battle ready.

This is most epitomised with the resurgence of Alexander Hleb who has this season been a revelation.


Inexperience is something which characterises Wenger’s teams throughout his tenure at Arsenal.

That is why we have witnessed in the past the fluctuations in the quality of the performance levels between games and also during games themselves.

But now they have achieved more consistency and maturity, they are producing scintillating, dare we say it, Brazilian type football. Football that will be “untouchable”.

Again.

Flamini out of Newcastle clash. More midfield headache for Wenger

By 1970’s Gooner

It's reported that Arsene Wenger’s problems with injuries are continuing. Midfielders Fabregas, Hleb and Diaby are known absentees for the away game at St James Park. Now Sky is reporting that Mathieu Flamini is out with a thigh injury he picked up at Villa Park.

This is a pity as Mathieu was in inspiring form against Aston Villa scoring the equalizer in a more advanced midfield role due to Fabregas’s absence.

Wenger is now faced with a similar decision he had to make prior to the home game against Wigan where again the first choice central midfielders, Fabregas and Flamini were out injured.

Will he go with Diarra and Denilson again or will he call back the experienced Gilberto.

But it wasn’t till Rosicky was moved into the midfield in the later stages of that game that Arsenal became more creative scoring two late goals.

Wenger therefore has the option to pair Rosicky with either Gilberto or Diarra in central midfield and play the impressive and improving Eboue and Walcott on the wings.

He has another option. And that is to play a three man midfield, Gilberto, Diarra and Rosicky in a 4 3 3 formation with Adebayor flanked by Eboue and Walcott.


Adebayor: “We are very proud of our performance”

Arsenal score beautifully but win ugly. The sign of champions!

Aston Villa Vs Arsenal: Players Ratings and Man of the Match

Six changes Wenger made this season are propelling Arsenal to the title

By 1970’s Gooner

Back in May of this year when Arsenal were stumbling to fourth place in the Premier League I felt the need to write an article on what Arsenal needed to do to challenge for the coming season.

It was written in frustration of the so many things that Arsene Wenger needed to fix that to me and many other fellow gooners were so obviously apparent.

In that article all Arsenal’s weaknesses were deemed to be correctable as a lot of the changes needed involved a change of attitude or better coaching and organisation on the pitch rather than radical surgery in the personnel.

So what has changed from last season to this?

- The defence has tightened up
- Learned how to break up packed defenses
- Now kill teams off when on top
- Have become more physical and learned how to win ugly
- Hit the ground running
- Goals are shared round

Due to the size of this post it will be published in two parts. This is the first part consisting of the first three changes.

1. The defence has tightened up

One reason for this improvement is that Clichy and Toure have gained from their experience of one more year in the premier League. And Gallas is beginning to get a decent run again without the injuries of last season.

The signing of Sagna has additionally brought more experienced and better quality defending into the back four.


But the most important factor which has been very noticeable this season is an integrated approach to defending; where all ten outfield players perform their defensive duties when the team loses the ball.

Prime examples are the tracking back performed by players like Hleb, Rosicky and even Adebayor. Something that was not so apparent last season.

As any football coach will testify this is the best way to achieve maximum defensive efficiency.

2. Learned how to break up packed defenses

Arsenal were top of the mini league last season consisting of the top 4 sides! It’s those points dropped against the smaller teams that were crucial.

The reason being that the smaller teams usually played with ten men behind the ball and adopted the physical approach rather than play a more open the game.

Blackburn did not adopt this strategy at the Emirates and they were hit for 6. They learned their lesson and changed their tactics for the Cup games and got through with a goal in the last few minutes of the replay!

So for this season it was crucial for Wenger to find the way to break up packed defences. There have been four noticeable changes in Arsenal’s style of play which have contributed hugely towards achieving this.

One is the speed with which Arsenal are putting together their attacks after winning the ball. The desire to pass the other teams to death and create pretty patterns just for the sake of it is not so apparent this season.

Secondly there is variation in the style of play. Like crossing the ball for a headed attempt at goal as shown below with Adebayor's powerful header against Aston Villa.


Or even, as has been attempted sometimes this season, using the long ball more often.

Thirdly, taking advantage of set plays has significantly improved. Arsenal have begun to score goals from free kicks and corners something that was distinctly lacking the previous season.

Last but not least the Arsenal players are no longer afraid to shoot nor are they trying to pass the ball into the net or score the goal of the year each and every time!

We have this season been privileged to see ugly goals, deflected goals, headed goals and even beautiful goals.

3. Now kill teams off when on top

The beautiful passing game and overpowering football that Wenger’s teams produce allows them so much domination during the course of a game that they lull themselves into a false sense of security.

And last season they relaxed too much and too early when they were only one nil up. But the opponents knew that they will get their chance and like small armies, who out of necessity adopt guerrilla tactics, they only needed one strike. And then it was back to the pumps time again!

This is more an attitude thing rather than anything else. It indeed has been very evident in almost all of Wenger’s teams over the years as they all have been young and inexperienced. It stems from what we would term “the arrogance of youth”

This attitude has, more often than not, been supplanted with a singular desire to get ahead and then stay in front by relentlessly continuing to pursue more goals so as to kill the game.

The remainder of this article will appear in a later posting.

Adebayor: “We are very proud of our performance”

Adebayor: “We are very proud of our performance”

By Aries

It wasn’t that long ago when a lanky Togolese forward was brought to the Emirates in the January transfer window of 2006 from French side Monaco. The new Kanu or “baby Kanu” most media men were quick to point out.

Certainly his tall and lean frame looks a lot like his Nigerian predecessor. He is now wearing shirt number 25, which previously belonged to, amongst others Nwankwo Kanu.

Adebayor said that he chose that shirt number because he idolised Kanu while he was a young player. Like Kanu, he also wears the number 4 shirt when playing for his national team.

In fact, Arsene Wenger even described Adebayor as "Kanu with pace" when he signed him. And Wenger was obviously looking to add variation to Arsenal’s play just as Kanu used to provide.

Adebayor’s pace, aerial ability and body strength have certainly begun to provide dividends for Wenger’s investment. He is top of the goal scoring charts both for Arsenal and in the Premiership with 8 goals.

But more importantly he has, in the absence of Robin Van Persie through injury, been leading the line magnificently for Arsenal as a lone forward when Wenger has on a number of occasions opted to play a 4 4 1 1 formation.

It was Adebayor's superb first-half header for Arsenal’s second goal at revitalised Aston Villa on Saturday that in the end sealed the win which keeps Arsenal on top of the Premier League table.


It also helped maintain Arsenal’s unbeaten league record but Adebayor is keeping his feet on the ground:

"I know people are starting to say already that we can go unbeaten but I know the most important thing is keep on doing a good job and keep on playing our football.

What he is referring to is the scintillating one touch total football that Arsenal have been producing this season in the Premiership.

Yet he is also ready to point out that Arsenal’s resilience is something that the team have learned to produce when the conditions and the opponents demand it. As demonstrated with a backs-to-the-wall display to deny Villa in the second half.

“In the second half it was cold and wet and Villa came at us. We knew we had to fight and we fought to the end. We were very proud of our performance.

Adebayor signed for Arsenal for an undisclosed fee, which was reported to be around £7 million. What would he be worth now?


Arsenal score beautifully but win ugly. The sign of champions!

Aston Villa Vs Arsenal: Players Ratings and Man of the Match

By 1970’s Gooner

Aston Villa

Scott Carson 8, , Wilfred Bouma 7 (Patrik Berger 6), Zat Knight 7, Martin Laursen 7, Olof Mellberg 7, Gareth Barry 6, Craig Gardner 7, Stiliyan Petrov 6 (Shaun Maloney 5), Gabriel Agbonlahor 7, John Carew 9, Ashley Young 8

Aston Villa’s best player: John Carew



Arsenal

Manuel Almunia 8, Gael Clichy 7, Emmanuel Eboue 7, William Gallas 7, Bacary Sagna 8, Kolo Toure 7, Lassana Diarra 6, Mathieu Flamini 9, Alex Hleb 9 (Theo Walcott 5), Tomas Rosicky 7 (Gilberto Silva 7), Emmanuel Adebayor 7 ( Nicklas Bendtner -)

Man of the Match: Alexander Hleb


Simply magnificent.


Arsenal score beautifully but win ugly. The sign of champions!

Arsenal score beautifully but win ugly. The sign of champions!

By 1970’s Gooner

Isn’t this what championship winning teams are made of? To get the three points when the team is not performing well. When it is under pressure and the opponents are pushing forward with at times 68% possession?

Yet it never remotely looked like the game would turn out to be like this. Not after Arsenal scored two beautifully carved out goals to counter the earlier one scored by Gardner as early as the 14th minute.

The first one arriving 12 minutes later after slick interplay on the right wing with Rosicky laying the ball back just inside the area for the on coming Flamini to power it home.

The second on the 36th minute was created on the same flank again with Sagna providing a beautifully weighted cross for Adebayor to thump it home with a strong header.

Villa always looked dangerous especially when Carew was fed those high balls and they started the second half in determined mood.

When the main playmaker and outstanding player on the pitch, Hleb, had to depart limping heavily after he was cynically chopped down from behind by Carew, Arsenal lost their rhythm.

Villa sensed this and pushed even more forward searching for that equalizer. Arsenal stopped playing football and restricted themselves to just stopping the opponents.

Wenger made an astute substitution taking Arsenal’s remaining creative player, Rosicky for a defensive midfielder, Gilberto. This gave the defensive shield that the tiring Diarra was increasingly failing to provide.

When Carew’s header cannoned off Almunia’s cross bar we all knew that it was going to be Arsenal’s day.

It’s probably going to be Arsenal’s year!

Young Guns can win at Aston Villa without Fabregas

By 1970’s Gooner

Martin O'Neill, like a lot of football managers, would probably like to stick to what has brought him success in the past especially against the team that Villa will face today in the evening kick off.

Arsenal’s first ever Premier League game at the Emirates was against Aston Villa. It was also O’Neill’s first with his new club.

He adopted a system that managed to stifle Arsenal’s tendency to use the flanks as an attacking option. Especially when the full backs, Eboue and Hoyte on that day, were roaming forward as a lot of Arsene Wenger’s sides are encouraged to do.


O'Neill used a 4 3 3 formation which had Agbonlahor and Moore as the wide men who tended to drop back and crowd the space out for Arsenal’s wide men.

Once possession was gained they were deployed in counter attacking mode exploiting the spaces that Arsenal’s full backs had left behind. They enjoyed success as their pace especially Agbonlahor’s stretched the Arsenal defence.

O’Neill also deployed a three man midfield to Arsenal’s two. Gareth Barry, Steven Davis and Gavin McCann were outstanding. Arsenal only managed to get a deserved equalizer when Walcott’s cross found Gilberto unmarked to score in the last few minutes.

I don’t expect O’Neill to play any different today. His three players in the so called forward positions are likely to include rumored Arsenal target Agbonlahor and the pacy Young with John Carew, who has scored some vital goals against Arsenal in his days with Valencia, the lone forward up front.

"Aston Villa is a place where certainly we will need to play our football," Wenger said, "but also be strong enough to counter what they are good at. They are a very strong, direct side with a lot of pace and body strength.

Wenger has to decide therefore which system to play. Does he play the same as Villa, 4 3 3, thus avoiding being outnumbered in midfield or does he stick to his usual 4 4 2 or its variation 4 4 1 1?

It will be interesting if he goes for the 4 3 3 because this system will allow him to bring Rosicky into the midfield who could take over the Fabregas creative role but partner him with two more "practical" players in Flamini and Gilberto.


Rosicky’s significant impact when he was moved infield against Wigan was there for all to see and Arsenal will need to have a clever playmaker if they are to undo Villa’s workmanlike midfielders.

The three in the forward positions will then be Hleb if fit, Eboue and Adebayor. Fingers crossed that Clichy will make it as his runs down that left wing are an important part of Arsenal’s attacking play. The alternatives otherwise will be Diarra or Hoyte.

I remember Robert Pires scoring a sublime goal at Villa Park a few years ago by lobbing the ball over Peter Schmeichel after he left a Villa defender stranded.

We won the League that year.