By 1970’s Gooner
The latest injury news to come out of Arsenal is that the excellent Gael Clichy did not travel to Spain due to a thigh injury he picked up against Wigan on Saturday.
This injury comes at an inopportune moment in Arsenal’s fixture calendar as we are about to embark on a series of away fixtures with a game on average every four days.
Clichy’s injury is described as short term and let’s hope it is indeed that, otherwise Traore could suddenly come into the reckoning.
There’s Hoyte of course and Diarra that could fill in if Wenger wants a more experienced player there.
This fixture list includes an away game on Saturday at Aston Villa, four days later on Wednesday we play Newcastle away and the Sunday after that Middlesbrough away.
This is followed by Steaua home the Wednesday after and then on Sunday Ashley Cole’s return with Chelsea. And it doesn’t stop there as we have Tottenham at home a week later!
The heavy schedule coming up is likely to set difficult selection problems for tonight’s game at Sevilla.
Wenger has to rest players in order to freshen them up but at the same time he has to try and have enough experienced players to assist the youngsters and have a chance of getting a result.
I would however prefer that as many first team players are rested and this should include Almunia so that Lehmann can get in some games in case he is needed in the coming weeks.
Lehmann should start in goal with Hoyte, Toure, Senderos and Traore the back four. Eboue, Diarra, Gilberto and Denilson the four in midfield and Bendtner and Eduardo the front two.
This will give a rest to Rosicky, Walcott, Almunia, Fabregas and Sagna. Although in the travelling party, Flamini will not be risked by Wenger.
Some newspapers have Rosicky and Fabregas starting and they would certainly add a sparkle to the line up.
But should Wenger be risking them with such a demanding fixture list and so close to the run up of the crucial Xmas period? I hope not.
Prediction: Whatever Wenger decides will be good enough to contest the game.
The defence is solid enough but obviously keeping Kanute quiet will be a big test especially for the returning Senderos.
The pairing of Bendtner and Eduardo however needs to click together if Arsenal are to have any success; 0-0
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Friday, November 23, 2007
Xmas wish for West Ham fans: Bilic as West Ham's new Wenger!
By The Coach (who is really a crypto West Ham fan!)
Bilic is an ex-West Ham great who has proven to have Wenger-like qualities in building up teams that are young and exciting and most of all effective.
He can be the new Wenger of the Premiership and I am sure he would jump at the chance to coach a Premiership team especially at his old stamping ground, Upton Park.
The West Ham Board should recognise opportunities when they arise and find a way to make them happen.
I was totally impressed with Bilic's ability to bring together young talent and shape a team that can play good football and most of all a team that is capable of beating anyone.
The style of football that Croatia displayed at Wembley the other night is indeed the football that West Ham were known for but sadly now only seen in glimpses.
It wasn’t that long ago when Sir Trevor Brooking et al and even before him when the Great Bobby Moore was the captain that West Ham were admired for the way they played the beautiful game.
Bilic is the man and the Board should be clever enough to see and grasp this opportunity to transform West Ham into a power in football again. It won't happen overnight, but Bilic more than Curbishley knows how to achieve it.
The most Curbishley can manage is to use his old and trusted methods to just keep West Ham away from trouble. But is this enough?
Having been a West Ham admirer for so many years, I think it is time the club moved on. It is time to show a little more ambition.
England will probably never be a world football power again
West Ham Don’t Need a Director of Football but a New Manager
Bilic is an ex-West Ham great who has proven to have Wenger-like qualities in building up teams that are young and exciting and most of all effective.
He can be the new Wenger of the Premiership and I am sure he would jump at the chance to coach a Premiership team especially at his old stamping ground, Upton Park.
The West Ham Board should recognise opportunities when they arise and find a way to make them happen.
I was totally impressed with Bilic's ability to bring together young talent and shape a team that can play good football and most of all a team that is capable of beating anyone.
The style of football that Croatia displayed at Wembley the other night is indeed the football that West Ham were known for but sadly now only seen in glimpses.
It wasn’t that long ago when Sir Trevor Brooking et al and even before him when the Great Bobby Moore was the captain that West Ham were admired for the way they played the beautiful game.
Bilic is the man and the Board should be clever enough to see and grasp this opportunity to transform West Ham into a power in football again. It won't happen overnight, but Bilic more than Curbishley knows how to achieve it.
The most Curbishley can manage is to use his old and trusted methods to just keep West Ham away from trouble. But is this enough?
Having been a West Ham admirer for so many years, I think it is time the club moved on. It is time to show a little more ambition.
England will probably never be a world football power again
West Ham Don’t Need a Director of Football but a New Manager
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Six players are out so it’s a Carling Cup side for Wigan
By 1970’s Gooner
The news coming out of Arsenal with regard to injuries is not good.
Alex Hleb is out for 21 days with a hamstring injury picked up playing for Belarus against Holland (2-1). He was substituted at half time.
Mathieu Flamini was sent home by Domenech after he picked up a thigh injury in the seven minutes he played for France. He will be out for one week.
Abu Diaby hurt his back against the Slavia Prague game and has not participated for the France Under 21s. He will be out for three weeks.
Robin Van Persie’s knee has not healed sufficiently and he needs another ten days before making his come back. He will also miss the Sevilla Champions League game in Spain.
Gilberto will return very, very late from international duty with Brazil and he will only come back on Friday jet lagged!
Cesc Fabregas stupidly went and got himself yellow carded so he is also out of the Wigan game.
Philip Senderos is back though which is small consolation as he is not likely to start anyway.
The selection dilemmas for Wenger will be focused on the central midfield positions and on who will partner Adebayor up front.
Gilberto obviously is a definite starter if he can get back in time from his duties as captain of Brazil.
For the other central midfield position it looks like a straight choice between Denilson and Diarra as Song’s only outings so far have only been a few last minute substitutions.
It will be interesting to see which Wenger will choose although Denilson is more of a creative player and creativity will be needed to compliment Gilberto’s industry and defensive inclinations.
Up front I think Eduardo will get the nod as he looked sharp for Croatia on Wednesday night.
So Wenger will be forced to field a Carling Cup side for Saturday. The possible 11 are as follows:
Almunia
Sagna Toure Gallas Clichy
Eboue Gilberto Denilson/Diarra Rosicky
Adebayor Eduardo
The news coming out of Arsenal with regard to injuries is not good.
Alex Hleb is out for 21 days with a hamstring injury picked up playing for Belarus against Holland (2-1). He was substituted at half time.
Mathieu Flamini was sent home by Domenech after he picked up a thigh injury in the seven minutes he played for France. He will be out for one week.
Abu Diaby hurt his back against the Slavia Prague game and has not participated for the France Under 21s. He will be out for three weeks.
Robin Van Persie’s knee has not healed sufficiently and he needs another ten days before making his come back. He will also miss the Sevilla Champions League game in Spain.
Gilberto will return very, very late from international duty with Brazil and he will only come back on Friday jet lagged!
Cesc Fabregas stupidly went and got himself yellow carded so he is also out of the Wigan game.
Philip Senderos is back though which is small consolation as he is not likely to start anyway.
The selection dilemmas for Wenger will be focused on the central midfield positions and on who will partner Adebayor up front.
Gilberto obviously is a definite starter if he can get back in time from his duties as captain of Brazil.
For the other central midfield position it looks like a straight choice between Denilson and Diarra as Song’s only outings so far have only been a few last minute substitutions.
It will be interesting to see which Wenger will choose although Denilson is more of a creative player and creativity will be needed to compliment Gilberto’s industry and defensive inclinations.
Up front I think Eduardo will get the nod as he looked sharp for Croatia on Wednesday night.
So Wenger will be forced to field a Carling Cup side for Saturday. The possible 11 are as follows:
Almunia
Sagna Toure Gallas Clichy
Eboue Gilberto Denilson/Diarra Rosicky
Adebayor Eduardo
McClaren and Wenger blamed for England’s failure: A nation in denial
By The Coach
Sure, McClaren was never a brilliant football manager and yes, a better choice could have been made in May 2006. But isn’t this typical of a nation that goes into mass denial once again?
The problem of English football is deeply rooted and has to do with an archaic footballing culture that is fostered and maintained by all, including those who are now taking to pieces poor McClaren.
All these experts and professors of football are quick to advise the eternal formula, “sack the coach and start again”. If only it were that simple!
Wait, haven’t we tried that many times before? Terry Venables, Glenn Hoddle, Sven Goran Ericsson and even Sir Alf Ramsey did not escape becoming the scapegoats for the more obvious reality that a whole nation does not want to even consider, let alone, come to terms with.
The fact is that football in England is bad! It is too physical, too square, too predictable, too English!
The mass hysteria has even reached the point of blaming it all on Wenger! Yes, unbelievable as it may sound, some gurus in England actually profess that the problems with English football emanate from having Arsene Wenger type managers in the Premiership!
“If only Arsene Wenger would try to create successful teams in the Premiership using young British rather than international talent, then…”
Wenger is not racist or anti-British! He would love to be able to build a championship winning team using available talent from England. The problem is that there is no such talent (and surely not at the same cost) to be found as could be sourced from abroad.
Looking into the problem a little deeper, the talent that can be developed into the Fabregas, the Van-Persies and the Hlebs of this world is so rare in England for a very good reason.
Young kids in England are unfortunate enough to grow up in England. By the time they learn the rules and have the British footballing values embedded into their persona it is far too late to explore and develop their natural qualities for creativity, imagination and flair on the field.
To use an analogy, it is like having Van Gough or Mozart create their beautiful work while serving in the army.
Back in early September I along with 1970’s Gooner began a series of articles that expounded on this very issue (see our posting England will probably never be a world football power again).
In our opinion the reason for this lies on the emphasis placed by the English society on several character related attributes, which in the end help to stifle any skills that a young player may possess.
These attributes, admirable as they are, concentrate more on the traditional English values of commitment, work ethos, effort and physical and mental strength.
All very important and very necessary elements in what makes a world class player.
But alas not sufficient. And they inevitably manifest themselves in all aspects of the English game.
In the way the players themselves play the game. In the way English coaches encourage their players to conduct themselves on the pitch. In their choice of strategies and tactics. And in the way the referees interpret the laws.
In fact most English players are made to look better when they are playing for their club teams which mostly consist of foreign players.
But when they have to co-exist with the rest of the England squad and line up against their club colleagues and other more skillful players in an international game they have no such “shield”
The truth is that England are really an average team who is made to look a little bit better when a few world class players emerge now and then.
England will probably never be a world football power again
Sure, McClaren was never a brilliant football manager and yes, a better choice could have been made in May 2006. But isn’t this typical of a nation that goes into mass denial once again?
The problem of English football is deeply rooted and has to do with an archaic footballing culture that is fostered and maintained by all, including those who are now taking to pieces poor McClaren.
All these experts and professors of football are quick to advise the eternal formula, “sack the coach and start again”. If only it were that simple!
Wait, haven’t we tried that many times before? Terry Venables, Glenn Hoddle, Sven Goran Ericsson and even Sir Alf Ramsey did not escape becoming the scapegoats for the more obvious reality that a whole nation does not want to even consider, let alone, come to terms with.
The fact is that football in England is bad! It is too physical, too square, too predictable, too English!
The mass hysteria has even reached the point of blaming it all on Wenger! Yes, unbelievable as it may sound, some gurus in England actually profess that the problems with English football emanate from having Arsene Wenger type managers in the Premiership!
“If only Arsene Wenger would try to create successful teams in the Premiership using young British rather than international talent, then…”
Wenger is not racist or anti-British! He would love to be able to build a championship winning team using available talent from England. The problem is that there is no such talent (and surely not at the same cost) to be found as could be sourced from abroad.
Looking into the problem a little deeper, the talent that can be developed into the Fabregas, the Van-Persies and the Hlebs of this world is so rare in England for a very good reason.
Young kids in England are unfortunate enough to grow up in England. By the time they learn the rules and have the British footballing values embedded into their persona it is far too late to explore and develop their natural qualities for creativity, imagination and flair on the field.
To use an analogy, it is like having Van Gough or Mozart create their beautiful work while serving in the army.
Back in early September I along with 1970’s Gooner began a series of articles that expounded on this very issue (see our posting England will probably never be a world football power again).
In our opinion the reason for this lies on the emphasis placed by the English society on several character related attributes, which in the end help to stifle any skills that a young player may possess.
These attributes, admirable as they are, concentrate more on the traditional English values of commitment, work ethos, effort and physical and mental strength.
All very important and very necessary elements in what makes a world class player.
But alas not sufficient. And they inevitably manifest themselves in all aspects of the English game.
In the way the players themselves play the game. In the way English coaches encourage their players to conduct themselves on the pitch. In their choice of strategies and tactics. And in the way the referees interpret the laws.
In fact most English players are made to look better when they are playing for their club teams which mostly consist of foreign players.
But when they have to co-exist with the rest of the England squad and line up against their club colleagues and other more skillful players in an international game they have no such “shield”
The truth is that England are really an average team who is made to look a little bit better when a few world class players emerge now and then.
England will probably never be a world football power again
Monday, November 19, 2007
Spurs Look to Cash in on Wenger’s Prodigies. Not on your Nelly!
By 1970’s Gooner
The People published a story that Diaby, Denilson and Traore are wanted by Spurs. And of course, not to be outdone, the other newspapers picked it up and started regurgitating the same story over and over again.
A sign that we are due to enter the “silly” period that is called a “transfer window”
There are football, financial and rivalry reasons why Diaby, Denilson and Traore will not be transferred to Spurs.
All three players have been handpicked and groomed by Wenger to provide top quality cover for their respective positions.
But more importantly to be ready in the next few seasons to take up the mantle if needed from their first team counterparts.
Diaby in particular has since his return from injury been very impressive especially on the few occasions he has been allowed to play in his natural position in the centre of midfield.
He has been likened to Vieira and in my opinion not without reason. His potential to grow into a great footballer is phenomenal.
So not only has he a great future at Arsenal but also to sell him on now especially when his transfer price will sky rocket in the future does not even make financial sense.
The more likely candidate to be sold on is in fact Gilberto. His transfer will create the space for players like Diaby, Denilson and Diarra to blossom even further.
Also the transfer price and savings in wages makes even more financial sense.
Judging by Wenger’s transfer behaviour so far do not be surprised to waive good buy to Gilberto! But most probably not to Spurs!
Denilson to my mind can be characterised as a prodigy who at only 19 is beginning to show that he can hold his own in that Fabregas role.
Surely he is being groomed to offer cover for Fabregas and also to play along side him if need be. Again why sell him now? It does not make much sense.
Traore is still learning his trade but we have seen how he resembles and plays like Clichy and even Ashley Cole before him. Wenger is obviously grooming him to be the next in line after Clichy.
But the problem of course is that he is still a little bit too young at 18. Wenger will make do at the moment with what he has and provide cover for Clichy from other sources such as Flamini or Diarra.
So again it does not make much sense to sell him on.
And what does not make much sense does not happen.
Especially if Spurs are involved!
Arsenal’s "Totaalvoetbal" a First in the Premiership. Wenger and Michels, Hleb and Cruyff
Lehmann back to his best
The People published a story that Diaby, Denilson and Traore are wanted by Spurs. And of course, not to be outdone, the other newspapers picked it up and started regurgitating the same story over and over again.
A sign that we are due to enter the “silly” period that is called a “transfer window”
There are football, financial and rivalry reasons why Diaby, Denilson and Traore will not be transferred to Spurs.
All three players have been handpicked and groomed by Wenger to provide top quality cover for their respective positions.
But more importantly to be ready in the next few seasons to take up the mantle if needed from their first team counterparts.
Diaby in particular has since his return from injury been very impressive especially on the few occasions he has been allowed to play in his natural position in the centre of midfield.
He has been likened to Vieira and in my opinion not without reason. His potential to grow into a great footballer is phenomenal.
So not only has he a great future at Arsenal but also to sell him on now especially when his transfer price will sky rocket in the future does not even make financial sense.
The more likely candidate to be sold on is in fact Gilberto. His transfer will create the space for players like Diaby, Denilson and Diarra to blossom even further.
Also the transfer price and savings in wages makes even more financial sense.
Judging by Wenger’s transfer behaviour so far do not be surprised to waive good buy to Gilberto! But most probably not to Spurs!
Denilson to my mind can be characterised as a prodigy who at only 19 is beginning to show that he can hold his own in that Fabregas role.
Surely he is being groomed to offer cover for Fabregas and also to play along side him if need be. Again why sell him now? It does not make much sense.
Traore is still learning his trade but we have seen how he resembles and plays like Clichy and even Ashley Cole before him. Wenger is obviously grooming him to be the next in line after Clichy.
But the problem of course is that he is still a little bit too young at 18. Wenger will make do at the moment with what he has and provide cover for Clichy from other sources such as Flamini or Diarra.
So again it does not make much sense to sell him on.
And what does not make much sense does not happen.
Especially if Spurs are involved!
Arsenal’s "Totaalvoetbal" a First in the Premiership. Wenger and Michels, Hleb and Cruyff
Lehmann back to his best
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Arsenal put on the Harlem Globetrotters Show at Reading
By 1970’s Gooner
It was men against boys; only the other way round if you see what I mean. But it was not like that all the way through. Coppell went for the conservative approach packing his midfield with five men and playing only one man up front.
Arsenal started somewhat lethargically and although they were enjoying 60% of possession they could not find a way round the packed Reading defense.
Yet it could have been very different from as early as the 4th minute when Adebayor put through by Rosicky clean on goal rather casually stroked the ball round Hanemann only to see it hit the outside the right hand post and go out of play.
Reading’s defensive formation was working quite well until the 43rd minute when they won a corner! As on many occasions that is when the defensive team is most vulnerable with the commitment of players in the opposite box opening up space on the other end of the pitch.
Arsenal were in the Reading box in a flash and Hleb was squaring the ball to the on rushing Flamini to score his first goal of the season.
That spelled the end of Reading’s mental resilience. The second half was monopolised by Arsenal adding the second on 52 after a sumptuous passing movement.
First Adebayor passed to Rosicky who gave it to Fabregas who laid it back for Adebayor to score from just inside the box with the minimum of back lift and with the inside of his right boot beyond the despairing Hanemann.
Now it was cruise control and exhibition “Harlem Globetrotters” staff as Reading were reduced to just a spectator part.
The Arsenal players were more interested in putting passes together and keeping the ball for very long spells rather than going for the jugular. Just like a cat plays with a captive mouse whose fate is already beyond doubt!
Hleb got the third on 78 after Oster passed to nobody outside his area. Hleb picked it up went through one player dummied the goalkeeper, dragged the ball back to his right foot and shot into the net off the defender’s stretched leg.
Wenger’s insistence on making double substitutions at the same time rather than spacing them out disrupted the flow again just as they did in Arsenal’s last game against Manchester United.
This gave the impetus for Reading to push forward and as Arsenal relaxed a bit more they managed to score a goal after a header hit the post with Almunia already out of position trying to stop it.
Fabregas got an “intended” yellow card and misses Arsenal’s next game against Wigan at the Emirates.
But Arsenal are top of the League again. Where they belong.
Coppell: "Reading have three different ways of playing against Arsenal". Really?
It was men against boys; only the other way round if you see what I mean. But it was not like that all the way through. Coppell went for the conservative approach packing his midfield with five men and playing only one man up front.
Arsenal started somewhat lethargically and although they were enjoying 60% of possession they could not find a way round the packed Reading defense.
Yet it could have been very different from as early as the 4th minute when Adebayor put through by Rosicky clean on goal rather casually stroked the ball round Hanemann only to see it hit the outside the right hand post and go out of play.
Reading’s defensive formation was working quite well until the 43rd minute when they won a corner! As on many occasions that is when the defensive team is most vulnerable with the commitment of players in the opposite box opening up space on the other end of the pitch.
Arsenal were in the Reading box in a flash and Hleb was squaring the ball to the on rushing Flamini to score his first goal of the season.
That spelled the end of Reading’s mental resilience. The second half was monopolised by Arsenal adding the second on 52 after a sumptuous passing movement.
First Adebayor passed to Rosicky who gave it to Fabregas who laid it back for Adebayor to score from just inside the box with the minimum of back lift and with the inside of his right boot beyond the despairing Hanemann.
Now it was cruise control and exhibition “Harlem Globetrotters” staff as Reading were reduced to just a spectator part.
The Arsenal players were more interested in putting passes together and keeping the ball for very long spells rather than going for the jugular. Just like a cat plays with a captive mouse whose fate is already beyond doubt!
Hleb got the third on 78 after Oster passed to nobody outside his area. Hleb picked it up went through one player dummied the goalkeeper, dragged the ball back to his right foot and shot into the net off the defender’s stretched leg.
Wenger’s insistence on making double substitutions at the same time rather than spacing them out disrupted the flow again just as they did in Arsenal’s last game against Manchester United.
This gave the impetus for Reading to push forward and as Arsenal relaxed a bit more they managed to score a goal after a header hit the post with Almunia already out of position trying to stop it.
Fabregas got an “intended” yellow card and misses Arsenal’s next game against Wigan at the Emirates.
But Arsenal are top of the League again. Where they belong.
Coppell: "Reading have three different ways of playing against Arsenal". Really?
Monday, November 12, 2007
Arsenal put on the Harlem Globetrotters Show at Reading
By 1970’s Gooner
It was men against boys; only the other way round if you see what I mean. But it was not like that all the way through. Coppell went for the conservative approach packing his midfield with five men and playing only one man up front.
Arsenal started somewhat lethargically and although they were enjoying 60% of possession they could not find a way round the packed Reading defense.
Yet it could have been very different from as early as the 4th minute when Adebayor put through by Rosicky clean on goal rather casually stroked the ball round Hanemann only to see it hit the outside the right hand post and go out of play.
Reading’s defensive formation was working quite well until the 43rd minute when they won a corner! As on many occasions that is when the defensive team is most vulnerable with the commitment of players in the opposite box opening up space on the other end of the pitch.
Arsenal were in the Reading box in a flash and Hleb was squaring the ball to the on rushing Flamini to score his first goal of the season.
That spelled the end of Reading’s mental resilience. The second half was monopolised by Arsenal adding the second on 52 after a sumptuous passing movement.
First Adebayor passed to Rosicky who gave it to Fabregas who laid it back for Adebayor to score from just inside the box with the minimum of back lift and with the inside of his right boot beyond the despairing Hanemann.
Now it was cruise control and exhibition “Harlem Globetrotters” staff as Reading were reduced to just a spectator part.
The Arsenal players were more interested in putting passes together and keeping the ball for very long spells rather than going for the jugular. Just like a cat plays with a captive mouse whose fate is already beyond doubt!
Hleb got the third on 78 after Oster passed to nobody outside his area. Hleb picked it up went through one player dummied the goalkeeper, dragged the ball back to his right foot and shot into the net off the defender’s stretched leg.
Wenger’s insistence on making double substitutions at the same time rather than spacing them out disrupted the flow again just as they did in Arsenal’s last game against Manchester United.
This gave the impetus for Reading to push forward and as Arsenal relaxed a bit more they managed to score a goal after a header hit the post with Almunia already out of position trying to stop it.
Fabregas got an “intended” yellow card and misses Arsenal’s next game against Wigan at the Emirates.
But Arsenal are top of the League again. Where they belong.
Coppell: "Reading have three different ways of playing against Arsenal". Really?
It was men against boys; only the other way round if you see what I mean. But it was not like that all the way through. Coppell went for the conservative approach packing his midfield with five men and playing only one man up front.
Arsenal started somewhat lethargically and although they were enjoying 60% of possession they could not find a way round the packed Reading defense.
Yet it could have been very different from as early as the 4th minute when Adebayor put through by Rosicky clean on goal rather casually stroked the ball round Hanemann only to see it hit the outside the right hand post and go out of play.
Reading’s defensive formation was working quite well until the 43rd minute when they won a corner! As on many occasions that is when the defensive team is most vulnerable with the commitment of players in the opposite box opening up space on the other end of the pitch.
Arsenal were in the Reading box in a flash and Hleb was squaring the ball to the on rushing Flamini to score his first goal of the season.
That spelled the end of Reading’s mental resilience. The second half was monopolised by Arsenal adding the second on 52 after a sumptuous passing movement.
First Adebayor passed to Rosicky who gave it to Fabregas who laid it back for Adebayor to score from just inside the box with the minimum of back lift and with the inside of his right boot beyond the despairing Hanemann.
Now it was cruise control and exhibition “Harlem Globetrotters” staff as Reading were reduced to just a spectator part.
The Arsenal players were more interested in putting passes together and keeping the ball for very long spells rather than going for the jugular. Just like a cat plays with a captive mouse whose fate is already beyond doubt!
Hleb got the third on 78 after Oster passed to nobody outside his area. Hleb picked it up went through one player dummied the goalkeeper, dragged the ball back to his right foot and shot into the net off the defender’s stretched leg.
Wenger’s insistence on making double substitutions at the same time rather than spacing them out disrupted the flow again just as they did in Arsenal’s last game against Manchester United.
This gave the impetus for Reading to push forward and as Arsenal relaxed a bit more they managed to score a goal after a header hit the post with Almunia already out of position trying to stop it.
Fabregas got an “intended” yellow card and misses Arsenal’s next game against Wigan at the Emirates.
But Arsenal are top of the League again. Where they belong.
Coppell: "Reading have three different ways of playing against Arsenal". Really?
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Slavia do a lap of honour and Arsenal stumble to qualification. Plus player ratings
By 1970's Gooner
It was a disjointed performance in wet conditions with dreadful whether. Yet this is no excuse for a dreadful display by admittedly a Carling Cup side.
You would have at least expected a repeat of the fine display away at Sheffield United with a commitment to the passing game that all Arsenal sides under Wenger are well known for and the creation of some chances; even some half chances come to that.
But no nothing. Diaby was on the ball a lot but was not doing anything with it and he kept trying to use his body instead of adding to his game his undoubted skill.
Walcott reverted to running like a headless chicken and was largely ineffective and Denilson did not assert himself enough in the middle of the pitch. Up front Bendtner and Eduardo were largely anonymous and did not play as a pair.
The only one who can claim he had a good match was Almunia who made two excellent saves. In the first half he tipped the ball over the bar from a strong shot from outside the box but more significantly rushed out of his area to save what looked a certain goal after the Slavia forward escaped Gallas’s attention.
Lehmann's exclusion from the first eleven does tend to point to his departure in the january transfer window.
The result left both teams satisfied. Slavia avoided another humiliation and bagged a point; they did a lap of honour afterwards! And Arsenal got the draw that was needed to qualify.
Almunia; back to form 9
Clichy; his usual purposeful and energetic performance 8
Diarra; played as well as he did at Sheffield United but was not penetrative when going forward 7
Gallas; made one mistake which nearly cost us a goal 6
Song; strong and determined. Had a good game 7
Denilson; did not dictate play as well as he can 6
Gilberto; his usual strong and calm performance 7
Diaby; frivolous in possession and largely ineffective 5
Walcott; was not penetrative enough and did not pose any significant threat 5
Bendtner; below his best and did not connect well with his partner in attack 5
Eduardo; was largely anonymous 5
It was a disjointed performance in wet conditions with dreadful whether. Yet this is no excuse for a dreadful display by admittedly a Carling Cup side.
You would have at least expected a repeat of the fine display away at Sheffield United with a commitment to the passing game that all Arsenal sides under Wenger are well known for and the creation of some chances; even some half chances come to that.
But no nothing. Diaby was on the ball a lot but was not doing anything with it and he kept trying to use his body instead of adding to his game his undoubted skill.
Walcott reverted to running like a headless chicken and was largely ineffective and Denilson did not assert himself enough in the middle of the pitch. Up front Bendtner and Eduardo were largely anonymous and did not play as a pair.
The only one who can claim he had a good match was Almunia who made two excellent saves. In the first half he tipped the ball over the bar from a strong shot from outside the box but more significantly rushed out of his area to save what looked a certain goal after the Slavia forward escaped Gallas’s attention.
Lehmann's exclusion from the first eleven does tend to point to his departure in the january transfer window.
The result left both teams satisfied. Slavia avoided another humiliation and bagged a point; they did a lap of honour afterwards! And Arsenal got the draw that was needed to qualify.
Almunia; back to form 9
Clichy; his usual purposeful and energetic performance 8
Diarra; played as well as he did at Sheffield United but was not penetrative when going forward 7
Gallas; made one mistake which nearly cost us a goal 6
Song; strong and determined. Had a good game 7
Denilson; did not dictate play as well as he can 6
Gilberto; his usual strong and calm performance 7
Diaby; frivolous in possession and largely ineffective 5
Walcott; was not penetrative enough and did not pose any significant threat 5
Bendtner; below his best and did not connect well with his partner in attack 5
Eduardo; was largely anonymous 5
Arsenal’s B team good enough to win in Prague
By 1970’s Gooner
This game comes after two draining clashes against Liverpool and Manchester United and since a draw will be enough to see Arsenal through to the knock-out stages it has allowed Wenger the luxury to shuffle his pack.
Alexander Hleb and Cesc Fabregas are both rested after making 29 starts between them so far this season, while Kolo Toure (calf) and Tomas Rosicky (groin) are carrying minor knocks.
However Arsenal’s squad is littered with experienced internationals and gifted youngsters as well so it’s not really that big a risk to field a version of the B team.
In fact Wenger has blooded the youngsters so early in their career and in competitive matches that though young, immature and inexperienced they are not.
And they have shown that when they are complimented by a few seasoned campaigners such as Gilberto and Gallas they are capable of producing top class performances.
In a recent article after the victory in the Carling Cup tie at Sheffield United I reiterated the idea of teams like Arsenal being allowed to field “B” teams in the championship as they do in Spain. Arsenal’s B team was so obviously a class above the championship side.
Wenger has, in a way, the opportunity to field his Arsenal B team for the rest of the games left in this relatively easy group.
His biggest decision is who to field between the posts. Almunia needs to start in order to recover some confidence and ease his nerves.
Lehmann also needs a start if anything to be match fit and ready to step in the first team if Almunia’s two “lives” are exhausted. My hunch: Lehmann is a goner in the transfer window.
For the right back position Hoyte deserves a start and for left back I would rest Clichy and give Traore his first Champion’s League game. Gallas and Song will play in central defence.
I do not trust Song in defence. Having watched him play for Charlton in midfield last season I was impressed. I think he will be a very good central midfielder rather than central defender.
Denilson and Gilberto will be a strong pairing in midfield flanked by Diaby on the left and Walcott on the right. Eduardo and Bendtner will resume their productive partnership up front.
It sounds pretty strong to me.
For Slavia Prague ex Liverpool midfielder Vladimir Smicer is available, but Ladislav Volesak is suspended. Meanwhile, second-choice goalkeeper Michal Vorel is likely to make his Champions League debut in place of Czech international Martin Vaniak.
Slavia’s best hope is to qualify for third place and enter the UEFA competition. I wouldn’t expect them to play open and attacking football but they will be looking to get something out of this game.
Prediction: Arsenal’s B team find it hard to settle at the beginning but once in their stride can outclass Slavia. 0-1
This game comes after two draining clashes against Liverpool and Manchester United and since a draw will be enough to see Arsenal through to the knock-out stages it has allowed Wenger the luxury to shuffle his pack.
Alexander Hleb and Cesc Fabregas are both rested after making 29 starts between them so far this season, while Kolo Toure (calf) and Tomas Rosicky (groin) are carrying minor knocks.
However Arsenal’s squad is littered with experienced internationals and gifted youngsters as well so it’s not really that big a risk to field a version of the B team.
In fact Wenger has blooded the youngsters so early in their career and in competitive matches that though young, immature and inexperienced they are not.
And they have shown that when they are complimented by a few seasoned campaigners such as Gilberto and Gallas they are capable of producing top class performances.
In a recent article after the victory in the Carling Cup tie at Sheffield United I reiterated the idea of teams like Arsenal being allowed to field “B” teams in the championship as they do in Spain. Arsenal’s B team was so obviously a class above the championship side.
Wenger has, in a way, the opportunity to field his Arsenal B team for the rest of the games left in this relatively easy group.
His biggest decision is who to field between the posts. Almunia needs to start in order to recover some confidence and ease his nerves.
Lehmann also needs a start if anything to be match fit and ready to step in the first team if Almunia’s two “lives” are exhausted. My hunch: Lehmann is a goner in the transfer window.
For the right back position Hoyte deserves a start and for left back I would rest Clichy and give Traore his first Champion’s League game. Gallas and Song will play in central defence.
I do not trust Song in defence. Having watched him play for Charlton in midfield last season I was impressed. I think he will be a very good central midfielder rather than central defender.
Denilson and Gilberto will be a strong pairing in midfield flanked by Diaby on the left and Walcott on the right. Eduardo and Bendtner will resume their productive partnership up front.
It sounds pretty strong to me.
For Slavia Prague ex Liverpool midfielder Vladimir Smicer is available, but Ladislav Volesak is suspended. Meanwhile, second-choice goalkeeper Michal Vorel is likely to make his Champions League debut in place of Czech international Martin Vaniak.
Slavia’s best hope is to qualify for third place and enter the UEFA competition. I wouldn’t expect them to play open and attacking football but they will be looking to get something out of this game.
Prediction: Arsenal’s B team find it hard to settle at the beginning but once in their stride can outclass Slavia. 0-1
Monday, November 05, 2007
Wenger's mea culpa! Plus player ratings for Arsenal Vs Manchester United
By 1970’s Gooner
Arsene Wenger admitted as much after the game. The formation he selected meant that there was no real support for the front striker. Adebayor was more often than not isolated.
Wenger said: "Sometimes Adebayor was a bit too isolated up there. Maybe I could have played Theo Walcott up front, or Eduardo or Niklas Bendnter. But I went for a different approach.
"Without Robin van Persie the balance in the final third was not completely right.
“That's my fault. I'd look at that again.
As I pointed in my post match analysis it was indeed very apparent that the formation was not really an attacking minded 4 4 1 1.
It was actually a 4 5 1 formation, as the outstanding Hleb did not play just behind Adebayor as you would expect but much more behind, in the midfield area, in more of a playmaker’s role.
Almunia
Could not be faulted for the first goal conceded but the same can not be said of the second one. He came out of his area unnecessarily as Gallas was already closing in on Evra. This left his goal unguarded for a simple tap in by Ronaldo. He made the same mistake in a similar situation earlier on but his defenders bailed him out on that occasion. 5
Van De Sar
Could not be faulted for any of the Arsenal goals but can be faulted for his persistency, with the ball so clearly over the line for Arsenal’s equaliser, in trying to convince the referee otherwise. He made a good save from Adebayor’s close volley that eventually led to the goal. 8
Clichy
Performed well apart from United’s first goal. He was nowhere near Ronaldo when he put in his low cross. When the shackles came off in the second half he became more attack minded. His persistency in keeping the ball in play on the left touch line and putting a very dangerous cross which had the United defence in panic resulted in the dramatic equalizer. 7
Evra
Had mixed fortunes. Was instrumental in United’s second goal when he was well placed to receive Saha’s reverse pass and then place it on the plate for Ronaldo to score. However he was at fault for Arsenal’s first goal as he allowed Sagna to steal in behind him and screw the ball to the unmarked Fabregas. 6
Sagna
Performed well and was solid. Played an important part in Arsenal’s first goal and could not be faulted for United’s second as Walcott did not track Evra’s run into the box as he should have done. 7
Brown
Did not have the best of games. He was troubled by Clichy’s runs and looked uncomfortable when faced with fast players attacking him one to one. Was slow to pick Clichy up when he put his cross in for Arsenal’s equalizer. 6
Toure
Had a very solid game. Did not put a foot wrong and also ventured forward in the second half. He is becoming the rock in this Arsenal defence. Along with Gallas made sure that Tevez had a quiet game. 8
Vidic
A solid performance. Very good in the air and did not give much room to Adebayor to operate in. He was lucky that a penalty was not given against him when he was pulling on Hleb’s shirt inside the area. 8
Gallas
He is beginning to live up to his captain’s role. More importantly the rest of the Arsenal players are beginning to realise it. He was slow by his own admission to cover Roonie’s run for the first goal but he was there where it mattered to score the equalizer. 8
Ferdinand
Another solid performance but along with Vidic they only had Adebayor to deal with. His partnership with Vidic looks ideal. One is strong and the other is also good at tidying things up and distributing. 8
Rosicky
Had a subdued game and did not get involved as much as he could have. Kept to his defensive duties well. 6
Ronaldo
Also had a subdued game. He was denied space by the tight marking of Sagna and Rosicky as well as the packed midfield from both sides. 6
Fabregas
The little maestro was again the main pivot for a lot of the Arsenal moves. He was, probably by design, more defensively minded in the first half but he was there again at the right position to score the equaliser at the beginning of the second. 8
Hargreaves
Performed his duties very well. He balances this United side beautifully forming the anchor on which the more creative players can perform. 8
Flamini
Plays in a similar role to Hargreaves and has the same effect on this Arsenal side. He was everywhere and anywhere during this game. 8
Anderson
I was impressed by his strength and tenacity. Supported Hargreaves in the middle of the United midfield helping to keep it tight and competitive. 7
Eboue
Much improved in this game. He seems to improve the more games he plays. Put aside the theatrics and was positive throughout. This was probably because he was much more focused on the job he had to do. He had only one misplaced pass but did not misplace his beautiful cross for Adebayor which led to Arsenal’s first goal. 8
Giggs
Was for me anonymous throughout the game. Not the same Giggs we knew. Will this be his last season at United? 5
Hleb
What a performance again. Top draw. His skill and close dexterous control of the ball is unparalleled in this league. But when used as a second striker the level of his performance is compromised. Kept the ball under pressure from a bunch of United players and found the ball to Fabregas who began the move which led to Arsenal’s first equalizer. 8
Roonie
Tenacious and dangerous as always. Played the role he was assigned very well popping up at the near post to score United’s first goal. He did the same last season at the far post. 8
Adebayor
Played the lone striker role well but did not have enough support from Hleb or from the other midfielders. His control sometimes led him down and he desperately needs to score a goal. Good run and shot on the volley from Eboue’s pass which eventually resulted in Arsenal’s first goal. 7
Tevez
Was quite subdued throughout the game and did not contribute much towards United’s overall play. United will need a front man like Saha especially when they play against the strong teams. His influence when he came on was very apparent. 5
Arsenal’s Formula One Car Cannot Run With The Handbreak On. A Critique
Arsene Wenger admitted as much after the game. The formation he selected meant that there was no real support for the front striker. Adebayor was more often than not isolated.
Wenger said: "Sometimes Adebayor was a bit too isolated up there. Maybe I could have played Theo Walcott up front, or Eduardo or Niklas Bendnter. But I went for a different approach.
"Without Robin van Persie the balance in the final third was not completely right.
“That's my fault. I'd look at that again.
As I pointed in my post match analysis it was indeed very apparent that the formation was not really an attacking minded 4 4 1 1.
It was actually a 4 5 1 formation, as the outstanding Hleb did not play just behind Adebayor as you would expect but much more behind, in the midfield area, in more of a playmaker’s role.
Almunia
Could not be faulted for the first goal conceded but the same can not be said of the second one. He came out of his area unnecessarily as Gallas was already closing in on Evra. This left his goal unguarded for a simple tap in by Ronaldo. He made the same mistake in a similar situation earlier on but his defenders bailed him out on that occasion. 5
Van De Sar
Could not be faulted for any of the Arsenal goals but can be faulted for his persistency, with the ball so clearly over the line for Arsenal’s equaliser, in trying to convince the referee otherwise. He made a good save from Adebayor’s close volley that eventually led to the goal. 8
Clichy
Performed well apart from United’s first goal. He was nowhere near Ronaldo when he put in his low cross. When the shackles came off in the second half he became more attack minded. His persistency in keeping the ball in play on the left touch line and putting a very dangerous cross which had the United defence in panic resulted in the dramatic equalizer. 7
Evra
Had mixed fortunes. Was instrumental in United’s second goal when he was well placed to receive Saha’s reverse pass and then place it on the plate for Ronaldo to score. However he was at fault for Arsenal’s first goal as he allowed Sagna to steal in behind him and screw the ball to the unmarked Fabregas. 6
Sagna
Performed well and was solid. Played an important part in Arsenal’s first goal and could not be faulted for United’s second as Walcott did not track Evra’s run into the box as he should have done. 7
Brown
Did not have the best of games. He was troubled by Clichy’s runs and looked uncomfortable when faced with fast players attacking him one to one. Was slow to pick Clichy up when he put his cross in for Arsenal’s equalizer. 6
Toure
Had a very solid game. Did not put a foot wrong and also ventured forward in the second half. He is becoming the rock in this Arsenal defence. Along with Gallas made sure that Tevez had a quiet game. 8
Vidic
A solid performance. Very good in the air and did not give much room to Adebayor to operate in. He was lucky that a penalty was not given against him when he was pulling on Hleb’s shirt inside the area. 8
Gallas
He is beginning to live up to his captain’s role. More importantly the rest of the Arsenal players are beginning to realise it. He was slow by his own admission to cover Roonie’s run for the first goal but he was there where it mattered to score the equalizer. 8
Ferdinand
Another solid performance but along with Vidic they only had Adebayor to deal with. His partnership with Vidic looks ideal. One is strong and the other is also good at tidying things up and distributing. 8
Rosicky
Had a subdued game and did not get involved as much as he could have. Kept to his defensive duties well. 6
Ronaldo
Also had a subdued game. He was denied space by the tight marking of Sagna and Rosicky as well as the packed midfield from both sides. 6
Fabregas
The little maestro was again the main pivot for a lot of the Arsenal moves. He was, probably by design, more defensively minded in the first half but he was there again at the right position to score the equaliser at the beginning of the second. 8
Hargreaves
Performed his duties very well. He balances this United side beautifully forming the anchor on which the more creative players can perform. 8
Flamini
Plays in a similar role to Hargreaves and has the same effect on this Arsenal side. He was everywhere and anywhere during this game. 8
Anderson
I was impressed by his strength and tenacity. Supported Hargreaves in the middle of the United midfield helping to keep it tight and competitive. 7
Eboue
Much improved in this game. He seems to improve the more games he plays. Put aside the theatrics and was positive throughout. This was probably because he was much more focused on the job he had to do. He had only one misplaced pass but did not misplace his beautiful cross for Adebayor which led to Arsenal’s first goal. 8
Giggs
Was for me anonymous throughout the game. Not the same Giggs we knew. Will this be his last season at United? 5
Hleb
What a performance again. Top draw. His skill and close dexterous control of the ball is unparalleled in this league. But when used as a second striker the level of his performance is compromised. Kept the ball under pressure from a bunch of United players and found the ball to Fabregas who began the move which led to Arsenal’s first equalizer. 8
Roonie
Tenacious and dangerous as always. Played the role he was assigned very well popping up at the near post to score United’s first goal. He did the same last season at the far post. 8
Adebayor
Played the lone striker role well but did not have enough support from Hleb or from the other midfielders. His control sometimes led him down and he desperately needs to score a goal. Good run and shot on the volley from Eboue’s pass which eventually resulted in Arsenal’s first goal. 7
Tevez
Was quite subdued throughout the game and did not contribute much towards United’s overall play. United will need a front man like Saha especially when they play against the strong teams. His influence when he came on was very apparent. 5
Arsenal’s Formula One Car Cannot Run With The Handbreak On. A Critique
Friday, November 02, 2007
Wenger and Ferguson faced with interesting selection options
By 1970’s Gooner
Does a football coach select his starting eleven according to who’s available and on form? Or according to the system that is the most appropriate for the particular game coming up?
It’s usually a combination of both of course and for the Arsenal Manchester United clash at the Emirates it is intriguing to see what formations the two managers will go with.
Let’s look at the visitors first.
Ferguson’s options appear to be much more compromised than Wenger’s.
The injuries to key players such as Neville, Saha, Scholes and possibly Carrick will go a long way in dictating not only who he selects to start but more crucially which system he will deploy.
This is because in that critical area of the pitch, the midfield, he is deprived one if not two of his best midfielders. Scholes of course has been out for some time now and the additional absence of Carrick recently forced Ferguson to rely on new young recruit Anderson.
Carrick is now considered to have overcome his injury. But he has been out for the last four weeks and I am not sure that Ferguson will risk him. There is a chance of the injury recurring but more importantly there will be concerns over his match fitness.
So Ferguson may have to decide whether to stick with Anderson or bring back Fletcher who can add a bit more steel in an area where a lot of Arsenal’s play is directed form. The excellent Hargreaves of course will be the other central midfielder.
If Ferguson sticks with Anderson then he might feel that his midfield may need bolstering further and therefore ask Roonie to drop back into that area in a 4 4 1 1 come 4 5 1 formation.
In fact he may still decide to choose this system even if Fletcher is selected as he has not being playing recently and might also be rusty.
At the end of day we all know that Roonie will be playing in that hole behind the main striker. But it is how attacking minded Ferguson wants him to be that will decide whether he is more offensively or destructively oriented.
Another reason why Ferguson might be more conservative is the vulnerability of the United full backs O’Shea and Wes Brown.
Evra, who might be fit to start, has been out of action too and may lack match fitness. Ferguson therefore might want to give his full backs more protection by detailing support from the midfielders. And a 4 4 1 1 system will allow him to do that.
There is of course a price to pay and that is the forward areas of the pitch might be starved of support.
4 4 1 1 for Arsenal too?
On the other hand Wenger has even more options. He can play the same way he did against Liverpool with a 4 4 1 1 formation with Hleb just behind Adebayor.
This is risky as it will leave only Flamini as the only defensive minded midfielder. Roonie will then find a lot of space as that will be his favourite patch of the field.
In order to counter this Wenger can go for the more conservative 4 3 3 by bringing Gilberto back into the midfield along with Flamini and Fabregas.
Adebayor could then be flanked by Hleb and Rosicky. Gilberto parking himself infront of the defence countering Roonie’s threat and Fabregas and Flamini pushing forward in support as and when the occasion demands.
The second option is to bring Bendtner or Walcott on to partner Adebayor in a 4 4 2 formation.
I watched Bendtner perform very well for Denmark in the Euro qualifiers and also in the Carling Cup. His direct physical style is very effective.
I doubt whether Wenger will try this as he is yet inexperienced for such a big game. The same goes for Walcott who is much more effective coming off the bench at the moment.
This 4 3 3 formation will be my preferred option as it provides defensive cover but at the same time it allows you the use of three attacking players plus any of the midfielders who may venture forward.
Arsenal more than Manchester United have “impact” players on the bench such as Walcott, Eboue, Bendtner or Eduardo to change the game if needed.
Ed: what do you think should be the formations for the two managers? Leave your comment and your vote on the poll we have set up
Does a football coach select his starting eleven according to who’s available and on form? Or according to the system that is the most appropriate for the particular game coming up?
It’s usually a combination of both of course and for the Arsenal Manchester United clash at the Emirates it is intriguing to see what formations the two managers will go with.
Let’s look at the visitors first.
Ferguson’s options appear to be much more compromised than Wenger’s.
The injuries to key players such as Neville, Saha, Scholes and possibly Carrick will go a long way in dictating not only who he selects to start but more crucially which system he will deploy.
This is because in that critical area of the pitch, the midfield, he is deprived one if not two of his best midfielders. Scholes of course has been out for some time now and the additional absence of Carrick recently forced Ferguson to rely on new young recruit Anderson.
Carrick is now considered to have overcome his injury. But he has been out for the last four weeks and I am not sure that Ferguson will risk him. There is a chance of the injury recurring but more importantly there will be concerns over his match fitness.
So Ferguson may have to decide whether to stick with Anderson or bring back Fletcher who can add a bit more steel in an area where a lot of Arsenal’s play is directed form. The excellent Hargreaves of course will be the other central midfielder.
If Ferguson sticks with Anderson then he might feel that his midfield may need bolstering further and therefore ask Roonie to drop back into that area in a 4 4 1 1 come 4 5 1 formation.
In fact he may still decide to choose this system even if Fletcher is selected as he has not being playing recently and might also be rusty.
At the end of day we all know that Roonie will be playing in that hole behind the main striker. But it is how attacking minded Ferguson wants him to be that will decide whether he is more offensively or destructively oriented.
Another reason why Ferguson might be more conservative is the vulnerability of the United full backs O’Shea and Wes Brown.
Evra, who might be fit to start, has been out of action too and may lack match fitness. Ferguson therefore might want to give his full backs more protection by detailing support from the midfielders. And a 4 4 1 1 system will allow him to do that.
There is of course a price to pay and that is the forward areas of the pitch might be starved of support.
4 4 1 1 for Arsenal too?
On the other hand Wenger has even more options. He can play the same way he did against Liverpool with a 4 4 1 1 formation with Hleb just behind Adebayor.
This is risky as it will leave only Flamini as the only defensive minded midfielder. Roonie will then find a lot of space as that will be his favourite patch of the field.
In order to counter this Wenger can go for the more conservative 4 3 3 by bringing Gilberto back into the midfield along with Flamini and Fabregas.
Adebayor could then be flanked by Hleb and Rosicky. Gilberto parking himself infront of the defence countering Roonie’s threat and Fabregas and Flamini pushing forward in support as and when the occasion demands.
The second option is to bring Bendtner or Walcott on to partner Adebayor in a 4 4 2 formation.
I watched Bendtner perform very well for Denmark in the Euro qualifiers and also in the Carling Cup. His direct physical style is very effective.
I doubt whether Wenger will try this as he is yet inexperienced for such a big game. The same goes for Walcott who is much more effective coming off the bench at the moment.
This 4 3 3 formation will be my preferred option as it provides defensive cover but at the same time it allows you the use of three attacking players plus any of the midfielders who may venture forward.
Arsenal more than Manchester United have “impact” players on the bench such as Walcott, Eboue, Bendtner or Eduardo to change the game if needed.
Ed: what do you think should be the formations for the two managers? Leave your comment and your vote on the poll we have set up
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
Posts
