If We Didn’t Have Bad Luck, We Wouldn’t Have Any Luck At All
Aug 21st, 2011 by 'holic
I really don’t know where to start with what I have witnessed at the Grove today. Perhaps the home support? News reached us at the pub beforehand that Samir Nasri was starting. How would people react after last weekend? A few muffled boos greeted the announcement of his name before the start, but it did not take long for him to win the bulk of the crowd over. Nasri and Frimpong were the shining lights in the Arsenal midfield in the opening half. The only black mark being a booking for Frimpong for disputing a throw in. Not in a snarling at the referee or linesman way, you understand, but Martin Atkinson could never be accused of treating big name players and young kids the same.
Behind those two Vermaelen and Koscielny started superbly, and they needed to in all honesty. I spoke beforehand about the need for the wide players to be our most creative. Sadly both Walcott and Arshavin will have better days. The loss of Koscielny was the first of a handful of blows that those in the red and white today did not deserve. Miquel, preferred to Squillaci (good call boss) came on and impressed for an hour or so.
There is no doubt that the game was decided by the second yellow for the mightily impressive Frimpong. A view of the incident confirmed the decision was correct, but the first yellow remains massively irritating. Liverpool grabbed the lead with the first of two goals shown on Match of the Day to be offside, but to be fair both were close calls. One had to feel sorry for Miquel, who looked distraught when his attempted clearance ricocheted in off the struggling Ramsey.
Suarez hammered the final nail into the coffin in the final minute, and sparked some minor unrest among the home support. It has to be said though that that support had been fully behind the side, and if discussions in the pub afterwards were an accurate measure, most were pleased with the degree of effort put in by those wearing the cannon.
Let’s not mistake acceptance of the effort put in by those chosen today as relieving those in charge of the purse strings from an obvious need to strengthen a paper-thin squad. It was a very strange post-mortem that saw most praise the likes of Jenkinson and Frimpong, both starting a premier League contest for the first time. Vermaelen was most peoples idea of ‘man of the match’, and rightly so.
Then there was Nasri. My neighbour informed me during the game that reports were coming in from France suggesting that his move to Citeh had fallen through. On the basis of his performance today that would be massively welcome, but extremely unlikely, I think. The man turned muffled boos into warm support with his efforts today. If this is his last appearance in an Arsenal shirt he will leave some good memories behind, as well as a degree of bitterness.
I cannot pretend at this stage that one point from a possible six is the sort of start we would have wanted. I shall not even try. I do however recall a discussion I had with a good friend at the start of the season when I suggested it really doesn’t matter what happens in the three League games before the transfer window closes. So there is my ready made excuse for us to fail at Old Trafford next weekend when our midfield promises to be non-existent due to injuries and suspensions. What is important is that we progress in the Champions League qualifier on Wednesday. Domestic suspensions do not apply, but injuries most certainly do. How big will Koscielny’s departure today prove to be?
“It never rains but it pours” suggested the Match of the Day interviewer to Arsene. I have to say the storm is unlikely to abate until reinforcements arrive, but having said that a couple of the kids made quite an impression today. They deserved a little additional suppport from some of their more illustrious colleagues.
426 Responses to “If We Didn’t Have Bad Luck, We Wouldn’t Have Any Luck At All”
Well played ‘holic …
Oh well that’s that game out of the way then, and well done the boys for giving their all –
I normally pretty much subscribe to ‘holic’s view that it’s not worth going on about what you can’t control/influence/know re the club but things there are far from normal.
SOOO wot the eff’s going on at the club??? – i.e. very interesting interviews on BBC radio5live on friday nite with D.Dein, followed by one with Arsene. The 2 were definitely – at roughly the same time – in separate interviews – coming out fighting re what Arsene has brought to the club during the whole of his time here – fair enough on its own
And at first I saw d.Dein interview in a broadly positive light – BUUUUT! How positively viewed is D.dein by the current Arsenal board – so him standing up for Arsene so publicly and suggesting Arsene could walk is interestingly timed to say the least (the modern football person lets their pals tell the media wot they really think – don’t they?). PLUUUS – could Arsene’s current noisiest public backer – d.Dein’s answer to the question along the lines of – “is Arsenal owned/run by the right person/people?” maybe/possibly/perhaps be read as bit of a puff piece for the Rusky Oligarch – who – some would say – is a fraternizer with not nice people (that may or may not include D.dein)?
Suggesting that p’raps/possibly the behind the scenes politics chu-chu at the club has jus’ maybe pulled in to Total Fukkin Bonkersville which could/might help explain why nobody’s saying nothing straight about anything much at the club right now, and why we seem caught up in such a mess – of more-or-less our own making – on most fronts at the moment ??? Or not?
Anyway I base all of the above on little or no evidence, a life time of supporting The Arse, a bottle of spanish dessert whine and the swallowing of Prides
Am now off to the late night bookies to put the housekeeping on us going one step further in second-hand Carling Cup this season – Wemberlee,Wemberlee – we’re the famous AAARRsenALLL and we’re going to …
Ureds!
Blimey, AL. That was quick!
Can I also say a huge thank you to the ‘holics who made today such a good day apart from the obvious.
Zico, TaBS, TS, and Ollie were a very bad influence on me. Gaz and the Santas contributed to the deposits in my Guinness fund as well. Blogs and the Arsebloggers also made sure I was led astray.
And to the Chelsea fans I shared a carriage with on the train home, I lied.
You are all cunts 😉
pardon was about to post the above over the page when i saw this opening – wot can say i’m a midnight poacher,i’m a sniffer, i’m a gamboler – nee a fox in the old posty box
Up The Arse!
Holic, nice post but I disagree re Nasri. To me, it seemed as if he played for himself. He could have passed it to RvP and Theo on both occasions where he tried to take a shot who was absolutely free on goal.
Snowy and Matt – This is from the previous post.
It has exactly what I think about what you wrote.
Matt – I agree.
I’m gonna say something unconventional here but I really think that if Jack can curb his defensive instinct a bit he’ll be great for DB’s role.
That way AW can get 2 DM’s in Song and Frimpong/M’vila to act like PV and Gilberto Silva and beef up the midfield with 2 strong DM’s and two wingers to support the fullbacks.
I don’t really see anyone (!) in this squad that can make chances apart from Jack and if it means we need to change the formation to have more strength in the middle of the park, so be it.
If it means giving Jack the DB role, so be it. Not a lot of people thought Cesc can play in the Cesc role before AW made that change, he used to play a lot deeper and it worked.
Jack would thrive in the DB role (as opposed to the Cesc role which is a role that helps the defense more cause the wingers are much more high up the pitch).
ATG – Cheers mate, I’ll have what you’re having.
Snowy – My 249 is my response to your 247.
We CAN’T find a replacement for Cesc so we need to change the formation which was built for him. If we don’t create as much, the best solution is to limit the other team’s chances as well so 2 DM’s would help with that and let Jack have the attacking burden on him (and no, I don’t think it’s too much for him, he is by far the best midfielder in the country).
‘holic have always assumed that’s wot both the C’s in CFC stood for – and the F – well that speaks for itself surely
Ureds!
Extremely unlucky as Liverpool didn’t deserve to win that game and we didn’t deserve to lose. A draw would’ve been a fair result consequently. Frimpong, Jenkinson and Miquel showed heart, effort and endeavour which are traits that we’ve been crying out for. Vermaelen was a beast and frustrated the over-rated Carrol into oblivion. Nevertheless, it’s time to let this one go and get ready for the massive qualifier in Italy on Wednesday. Chin up Gooners!
I thought Inasi Miquel looked excellent today. He is a Rolls Royce player, with great technique and style; he just needs a bit more experience.
Loved the way Szczesny dropped him deep in the shit immediately he came on for his EPL debut, rolling the ball out to him when he was on the edge of the area and covered! Showed confidence in him, I suppose!
Jenkinson was slow and ponderous going forward and rarely threatened defensively by a very average Liverpool side made to look good by an even poorer Arsenal one.
Frimpong also deserved his red card. The challenge in the first minute was his warning but he didn’t heed it. His abusive and audible language towards the linesman wasn’t amusing.
I find it very hypocritical that most bloggers spent last season criticising anti football yet seem to think our own Chieck Tiote is somehow above that. His second yellow should have been a straight red and was delibrate. He raised his foot to leave something on Lucas.
Worse of all the player lost us the game. Excuse him all you like but a defensive midfielder is supposed to stop goals and keep the shape, no? Surely when you get sent off, you fail that objective? What is so admirable about that?
Give it a few more months of erratic rubbish like that and he will be firmly in the Lee Cattermole, Karl Henry, Joey Barton school of anti-footballers.
I know we are starved from footballers who have any fight but Frimpong’s behaviour is completely counter-productive and makes a mug out of Wenger who regularly criticises other players for similar actions. I am surprised Stoke fans aren’t on here.
Also Wenger’s excuse that Suarez goal was offside was incredibly embarrassing. Does everyone remember Van Persie’s goal against Blackpool last year? Didn’t hear Wenger complain too hard about that.
At least Suarez got himself in line with defenders before he knocked it in.
I am sorry but I hate hypocritical behaviour coming from our club. We used to be a classy club with principles. Now, thanks to Wenger, we seem to moan when decisions go against us yet when they go for us, we stay quiet.
If Andy Cap Carroll is worth 35M – Tommy Vermaelen is priceless – and for everything else there’s King Kenute!
So Kenute and his 100M+ megaspend escaped decrepit Annfield for this season’s single outing to stadium magnificence, attempting to nix a trophy drought now in its SIXTH year. Silver Starved Scousers haven’t even had a cup final or Champions League football to tide them over between Toxteth bonfires.
They’ve been through six managers during Arsene’s reign in London. You’d think the gutter press might focus on that as something of an issue? Not a bit of it. “Wengers French – let’s beat up on him” and so “Arsenal in Crisis” rings loud from the boil sucking teenage pimple pickers who scribe on Arsenal these days.
– Would Kenute improve on his 58M investment in two kippers?
– Would Liverpool’s might make Arsenal’s troubled squad tremble?
– Would AndyCap’s entertainment be in keeping with his fee?
We had Maca the Scouse Moron (MacSMo) and Ian In The Dark (ITDa) commenting here. They kept saying the same things time after time! “Will this be Samir Nasri’s last game for Arsenal?“(ITDa – 14 times)…..and on, and on. I tried to go with the ArsenalPlayer commentary but I was atmospheric-ed out. Can someone please invent an Arsenal crowd noise app for my Mac? Why impose failed UK pundits of a moronic persuasion on a US public whose interest in soccer is growing? It’s an insult to “us Americans”.
Carroll was singularly entertaining. Not as a striker but as a pantomime horse. The man has the head of a horse, absent the brains, and the first touch of Red Rum’s two front hooves. When Arsenal spend some money, lets all pray that it isn’t money swilled down the gurgler on the likes of AndyCap. 35million?? He wouldn’t make it into our Carling Cup Team.
It was a great pleasure to see Tommy V nip every one of Cap’s moves in the bud before it even started. Cap is a second rate striker, but even so, today showed why the Verminator was missed so much for ALL of last year. Koscielny too brushed aside limp Liverpool efforts effortlessly. Miquel is going to be great – what a fine debut from the bench. Quite unfazed by Cap’s neighing, he defended well and did some great distribution from the back.
Despite playing Sagna out of position and blooding a 1M youngster on the right, Arsenal’s back five looked rock solid. Wojcieck only had one easy header to stop in an easy first half. Jenkinson neutralized 20M+ Downing, had him in his pocket and still found time to attack. Kuyt was anonymous against Sagna and had even less luck when he tried some time against Jenkinson and was summoned to the bench by Kenute for his troubles.
Now we all know that Manny Frimpong is going to be a BIG star. But we also know that he’s not quite ready for primetime. We saw some of his best and worst today. A stupid first yellow was followed by 60 minutes of excellent ball winning, holding play, and forward passing. He made Charlie Adam look more like Charlie Corrolli and had Lucas the Butt Pusher chasing shadows in the rain. Anonymous From Sunderland was nowhere in evidence.
Frimpong’s deserved departure, mid-second half, turned the game. Arsenal, having survived a shaky start had surged to 60% possession. The worst outcome likely was a 0-0 draw and the BtM crystal ball’s one-nil prediction was looking good – particularly when Robin should have netted from six yards. Even with a rapidly tiring ten men, Liverpool’s 100M+ hotch-potch looked impotent and unlikely to break the tie. But lino-incompetence and really bad luck undid the ten. Suarez, well offside, attempted to round Miquel who picked him off easily. Unfortunately, Miquel’s clearance bounced off a tiring Rambo over Scezzer’s head.
The game was effectively over at that point. Liverpool scored again in the closing minutes. MacSMo on the 2nd goal: “Yes, Suarez was off-side but he wasn’t interfering with play” as Suarez tapped the ball into an open net. Does HE pay them to speak?
The positives here for Arsenal were the excellence of the back six under huge adversity. A particular “well done” to Miquel and Jenkinson, on early career performances that show real promise. Even had Arsene paid 20M for Ramsey instead of 6M, we’d be waxing lyrical in comparing his performance with 20M Downing, and 20M Anonymous from Sunderland. Aaron is a global star in the making. Frimpong both met and exceeded my expectations. He will grow to immensity.
On the other side of the ledger, Russia’s worst haircut needs to trim up his coiffure or get off the barber’s seat, Theo needs to contribute and Sami’s leaving and that’s a pity. Robin needs “Fabregas-like” through balls if he’s to reach his scoring potential. Nasri is a dribbler who doesn’t have that capability. Rosicky contributes more, but – Hurry Back Jack!
As for the crowd – superb from what I heard until the moronic BBB chant of SSFM started toward the end. I bet that really made the ten who’d given their all feel great about being at Arsenal. I’m sure they’re a small rump, but they do stink the place up.
This is a time of wrenching transition for Arsenal. Cesc and Nasri are a world-class duo that would be missed by ANY club in the world. Add to that some shattering injuries and some bone-headed red cards (unforgiveable in the circumstances) and you’ve got a recipe for turmoil that would sink MOST clubs, but NOT The Arsenal.
We’ll see new faces in the next 10 days, we’ll see Wilshere and the red card brigade back. And best of all – we’ll see Arsene sitting on our bench. He may well be throwing water bottles, but he’ll be there. If you’re wavering, go watch Danny Graft’s Arsenal Anthem and Keep The Faith. If that doesn’t help you, and you’re still wavering and slavering – believe me, you’re not really a Gooner.
Doesn’t take much to impress Holic these days. Arsenal were absolutely dire, and it’s embarrassing that one our best players was Frimpong. Can’t see us winning a single game on the road this season.
Arsene has gone bonkers saying the Liverpool goals were offside. Once upon a time I beleived the refs were the culprits when any misfortune fell on the gunners.Not anymore.
This Arsenal manager simply refuses to face the truth,the awful truth,the gunners aint good enough.He says Arsenal cannot be considered a big club if they sell their best players.Why is this so?
Nasri and Cesc believed he would buy quality players. Instead it has been one wonder kid after another.The worst thing is his one style attacking has reaped no reward.
Sufficient to say if the gunners are eliminated by Udinese,movement of the tremor scale will be overtaken by earthquake proportions.He could be forced to eat humble pie or forced out. By then the damage will have been done.
Bergkamp’s The Man
The best comment I’ve ever read
1st goal was clearly offside and only ten yards from the linesman who refused to flag.
Frimpong’s first yellow card was ridiculous and undeserved. So him fronting like that was the same offence and punishment as Barton hauling Gervinho up from his shirt and snarling at him without letting go to cause a melee.
Arsenal showed some guts out there.
Chesney is outstanding.
Frimpong was a giant.
Nasri was great.
Arshavin needs to pull his finger out or put in a transfer request. I cannot believe Chamberlain or Miyachi wouldn’t do more in his position.
RVP had zero service and Theo was often ignored although when he did get the ball he failed most times.
This is the main fact – Liverpool have spent £120m in a year and were practically full strength. Arsenal were decimated with injuries and suspensions (& departures) but could’ve won it – and certainly would not have lost it if the linesman had done his job.
Liverpool will NOT finish Top 4. No way!
Arsenal will. Just.
i am not feeling confident about winning in Italy. Maybe we need some losses to wake Wenger up to the fact that we need more players. It’s just no fair to have these great younger players not learning from experience players. It not that i don’t respect Wenger , it is just all the fans , tv experts, newspaper experts all know what is needed for this squad, but Wenger just cant see it.
All this uncertainty could have been avoided if he only went and purchased 3or 4 new players in July, maybe even Nasri would sign a new contract given all the new enthusiasm.
Ivan says that they are working hard to sign players and that they are barley sleeping trying to close deals. How hard is it to offer a sum for a player and get him. If you want him you buy him simple.
I am really at the end, i have no more patience to wait for Wenger cause deep down i know we will not get the players we really need. But one thing is for sure i will never boo the players because there work hard. I blame Wenger, Pat Rice,Ivan, and the board, collectively there are letting the players and fans down.
I saw the attendance on the Arsenal website of 60,090 – From what i saw it was never a full house. Again more lies
Can barely see the screen so I will be brief .
TS , Dr Z , Ollie and of course ‘holic , fantastic to meet you all , as great as in person as on the page .
Ben – please , please , please just fucking fuck off – as a man who has been at Highbury and the Ems for 41 years , you are as welcome as a spud fart in a spacesuit . Fuck off you cunt .
Wolfgang – there’s only one Wolfgang on these pages , and he’s got small balls , so you can fuck off as well .
BTM and ‘Holic – brilliant stuff , will post a more considered analysis tomorrow , when the brain is slightly more engaged .
One final thing for today – Ben and “Wolfgang” just fuck off you pair of cunts
I am Wolfgang of Goonerholic . I wear Speedoes and Jimmy Choos . I am an Arsenal fanatic who never slags off Arsene or the Arsenal .
I would never wish to be associated with your cuntish posts so get a new moniker , or best of all , just fuck off .
So pissed i forgot to say that it is you , Wolfgang the imposter , that i am talking to . Fuck off you cunt .
Thanks, Holic, for a well-reasoned write up. Guinness on me, if you’re drinking. Sept. 1st couldn’t get here any faster….
In life, there is no such thing as bad luck. A good manager prepares for all eventuality. That is why successfull clubs have deep benches. Barca’s captain is injured, but that has not stopped them turning over the second best team in the world. Vidic will be out for maybe four weeks, but when he comes back ManU will proudly be sitting at or near the summit in the standings. This idea that genuine supporters find it acceptable that the club has not purchased a top class centreback and leftback, a commanding defensive midfielder, a striker and two creative playmakers two weeks into the season is beyond me. Given the nature of our fixture list which was made public more than two months ago, the known departures of key players which have been in the works for months, and the clear need for reinforcements after the spectacular collapse last season, Arsenal should have been the first out of the gate and sealed all the transfer activity within a week of the transfer window opening. Arsenal are not unlucky the club is grossly mismanaged by an over the hill manager, tired board, and uninterested majority owner. There is no excuse for fielding such a week team against one of our top opponents,where is the planning? By the way, why are our players always injured, why are we not changing the dietary and training methods, something is wrong with current set-up and for those still believing in Wenger, your report cards are coming on Wednesday and next weekend!
He really does wear speedos by the way 😉
Is that the time?
Long day. Arsenal, Bloody Arsenal.
Be at peace Holics, it’s always darkest before the dawn.
up at this hour Dr Z ? Great to meet you my Caledonian friend , who is the imposter ?
A c**t obviously, Wolfie.
Pleasure was all mine mate, will catch up later when I stop seeing in triplicate.
Crash time.
Sure if Frimpong had not been sent off the game would have stayed at 0-0. How many shots on target did we have? two..three?
Me too , Dr Z , Good Night Sir , have to crash but this imposter has got me riled .
Tabs, today surely means Squillaci is done, can only assume AW is bringing a CB ’cause I’d think that Barley would be first to make the first team out of Miquel and him. Dropping Squilllaci down in the pecking order so much so that Miquel leapfrogged him can only mean AW is buying a CB.
I really doubt Miquel being the 4th CB this season in place of Bartley.
Hi Snir ,
I choose to take the positives out of a very disappointing day .
I agree , AW has taken a hard line approach to those whose confidence/form is shot ie Squill and also Chamahk , interesting to see the prince of Denmark got the nod for the last 10 mins .
Haven’t seen enough of Bartley to compare/contrast but Miguel was terrific today , and my oh my , Frimpong is gonna be some player .
Am i missing something with Martin Attkinsons decision on Frimpong…I think he did very well as lets face it if he was not on a yellow he would have got a straight red for that tackle. So instead of a three match ban he gets just one…so lets not justify his wrong doings and be greatfulthe ref took pity on us.
Honestly and truthfully we fans need to seriously take a look at who is responsible for the state of the team. Its not Wenger!!
Reasons can be found in two recent no three recent tranfer stories.
Story one ..Fabregas everyone knows how much Arsene was upset with the Barcelona C**Ts never ending pursuit of Cesc…..yet instead of saying ok you want him bid for him….I am sure if Wenger had his way Barca would never have been able to use our facilities before the CL final at Wembley. So who agreed the poor fee instead of whats right for the club…certainly not Wenger.
Arsharvin…outstanding Euroes and wanted by most of the top clubs. Wenger openly courts him he makes it clear he wants teh move even sitting out training with his team. Fee gets dropped from £22 mil to £18 mil when he comes over..then we had the calamity of will they pay the money even though Asharvin had paid his own fair to come over to be ready….every Gunner remembers that site of Asharvin leaving the hotel to get his plane back…only for a last minute price drop by his club allowing the latest transfer deal in historry to be completed…..Wenger does not control the finances. Thats Usmov and Kronkes boys.
And i think the one that did it for me….We bid for Xabi Alonso when he fell out with Rafa. Liverpool were prepared to sell to us but wanted £16 mil we would nt move from our £12 mil bid….he eventualloy moves to RM for £30 mil. Imagine what our midfield would have been like with Xabi leading it….I think we could have won everything…yet again it was not Wenger its the shareholders who authorise the release of money.
Even Bacon face is subject to the wims of the money men.
I hate to say this but what could benefit us is finishing outside the top four…would scare the living daylights out of Usimov and Kronke.Lets not forget Usimov and Kronkes forst words when they took a slice of Highbury. We are not interested in owning the club just in our investment…closer the club got to paying off the stadium the $$$$$$$ signs started flashing in the blobs eyes.
sooner or later we will end up being floated on some stock exchange or sold to the next Glaziers.
Tabs – I think we were both right today. I was right for advocating a start from Frimpong as I absolutely loved what I saw in last season’s preseason and everybody else was right when they said he’s still too inexperienced and it showed in the sending off.
I mentioned the Squillaci/Miquel/Bartley thing because last weekend I concluded that Squillaci was done due to him not being in the squad and you rightly pointed me to the fact that Djourou was the CB on the bench.
Miquel being on the bench today instead of Squillaci surely means something and like I said, I don’t think Miquel will make the step up to 4th choice CB just yet.
There are a lot of positives to take from this match (most of them effort related) but we have got to do something about our attack, maybe what I suggested @4 would be a good idea, who knows? I’m at a state where I wouldn’t mind anything as long as we see an increase in scoring chances.
Bad Luck?! No its not bad luck when you have reserves/kids filling in two weeks into the season. That is bad planning and management plain and simple. No depth in this team whatsoever. What will we look like in May ffs?!
Hi Snir , thanks for coming back , I don’t think a midfield of Song , Frimpers and Jack is too far away from where we are right now . Will post tomorrow , but must get some shut eye .
@#10 class.that’s why I come here.also u hol.nil all to the arsenal please god on Wednesday!fingers x
Kc,enlighten us all as to how any manager could predict the amount of injuries and suspensions we have. You’re kidding. Typical whinging Gunner “fan”.
Ramsey played terrible. He looked lazy and was constantly losing the ball. The goal was completely his fault, he was lazy in tracking back before the play. I also thought that Miquel was outstanding, of course, it had a lot to due with playing with someone like Vermaelen at his side.
As much as I love some of Wenger’s kids the indiscipline in the squad is all permeating and nauseating. The overpaid, underworked 17 and 18 year olds have too much of attitude and far too little drive to show for that attitude.
Frimpong is just the latest example of dissenting unnecessarily to get the first yellow. I sent a message to my mate at halftime saying Frimpong would get sent off, and Frimpong duly obliged by leaving a high boot in there. And this was after he showed Lucas the middle finger after a tackle. This was caught by the TV cameras but not shown again. I would not be surprised if the FA decides to give him a retro 3 match ban given the way our luck has been going.
Next, Lansbury comes on and makes a tackle; the decision goes against him; he shows dissent; he gets a yellow. NICE.
Song didnt need to step on Barton’s ankle like that and Gervinho did not need to bitch-slap Barton. We are easily provoked into reacting this way and other teams have learnt to use this against us. Its bad enough that referees are waiting to book our players, but we make it so much easier for them.
John Terry raised his hands against Odemwingie yesterday and grabbed his collar. He got a yellow. I remember once when Dennis Bergkamp got sent off for a shove on a Sheffield Utd (iirc) player. Since then I have seen so many others get away with so much more.
As much as we have had misfortune. A lot of our current situation and pain is self-inflicted.
I would not be surprised if we sign atleast 1 player before the United game next week.
Straight after the,Arsenal game,I watched Everyone play. Something struck me big time. What stood out was one simple thing….when we have a winger ready to cross,Arsenal have one or two players in the box. This was in complete contrary to the next game,where it normal to have four or five players pushing into the box awaiting the cross.Can anyone explain this to me. Is it a tactical reason,or is it a lack if effort? As I say,it wasn’t a minor difference,it was huge.
Don’t let pity disguise the fact that our side was ordinary and struggled against an average Liverpool side.
I am beginning to think that there is no way out of this current situation that Arsene Wenger is entirely to blame for.
I think that the side needs a complete restructure, from front to back, I think though that something stood out yesterday – Thomas Vermaelen is too good to be in the back 4, with his talent we have the perfect replacement for what Vieira used to bring us …. watching yesterday the way he began to drive forward in midfield and his committment to the cause was impressive and we could do worse with him as our Defensive Midfielder as the starting point in the rebuild.
Wenger points out the injuries that we have …but – lets face it the players out do not exactly fill anyone with real hope, probably only Jack Wilshire is the one ray of sunshine…. but it would be unfair to expect him to bring it all together single handed
I think critically though the biggest signing the club should make is a new manager who is devoid of the blinkered vision, stuborness and lack of ideas that Wenger has shown for 6 years now. Mind you they are probably scared of the compensation that sacking Wenger would mean….plus who would want the Arsenal job at the moment when it looks such a mess! Sadly I think that we will keep Wenger and become also rans again along with the likes of Everton,Liverpool,Sp*rs, Villa etc., in fact we could end up behind all of those plus a few more along with Chelsea,Man U & City…. but as always Arsenal will leave it and leave it until it is too late and the season is gone…… but this time its different, it could be that we become engaged in the unthinkable, a scramble to stay in the EPL!!!
I’m sorry but some of these people are just plain looney… Is there any way holic you can make it mandatory to watch Danny graft’s Arsenal anthem before entering the site? Sure there’s a lot “WE” can take from this performance but, the bottom line is we’ve made a conscious decision to support this team for whatever reason… The Invincinles is a real good one btw… But again this is a decision that we alone made and like Mr. Graft says ” you can jog on”. We don’t need you here, like my name states…. And as another says…it could be worse, you could be a spud! Give me a f@$&ing beer please barman.
‘Holic, do you think you could create a shadow blog (perhaps one for HT Mk II pass holders)?
All these cunts posing as Arsenal “fans” (you know who you are) are seriously pissing me off.
We all know the squad is light. We all know Wenger’s and the Board share blame. MOST of us realize that there is fuck all we can do about it, and there is no use abusing players like Frimpong (are you nucking futz Alan, Ben, and XX?) or Jenkinson.
Jebus, there really is no satisfying some “people”. I use that term advisedly.
Onwards and upwards. So on and so forth.
Barca must be destroyed.
UTA.
That is all.
Invincibles, damn iPhone only corrects what it wants to…sorry another beer please
Matt, you are a fucking joke.
Matt,
Throw your hand up to take Wengers spot……can’t be too hard, can it?
I mean,a few taps on a keyboard and you have given us all the answers.
Admittedly,you are at home in your study,flicking between Arsenal and porn sites,under no pressure at all,not having to deal with prima donna spoilt brats earning millions a year,not being answerable to a board of directors, and not being given advice a million times a day by people who have never even coached an under 5’s side,but all these things aside,You have my vote……
All those in favour.
The reality is we need at least 4 proven international class players in the next 10 days to make us competitive.
The amount of non contact injuries again shows the conditioning staff are not fit for purpose.
Bringing Bendy on instead of Cham when we are selling him, shows even wenger knows Cham is a dud. Utter madness and incompetence throughout the club.
You guys take whatever positives you want, but by next Sunday we are likely to be 8 points behind already.
Ps Matt,please do not think this is aimed squarely at you,it is aimed at the thousands who have made similar comments.
Give Wenger some credit guys. He gets more respect from fans of.other clubs than he does his own. You do not know what you gave until its gone.
Morning Holics….
Holic good write up it has to be said. BTM very good crystal ball writing yet again chap
When we loose a game especially at home I look at it differently it has to be said. Coming here means I don’t suffer as much and I really appreciate that.
Barman is the MC open my head is about to split open 🙂
AtG, glad you’re back in reasonable spirits. Chin up, boss.
‘Holic, you have mail.
Barca must be destroyed.
Nice post holic
Udinese away is going to take some serious balls – for supporters as well as our lads
Can’t wait!
Come on Arsenal
Win the Champions league qualifier, bring in some new blood into the first team, we will be alright
Arthur, the CMC is always open after match days 😉
Get a result against Udinese,and watch.things turn from there. Money aside,how much worse off will we be if we are knocked out,not that I am entertaining that thought? I am thinking we should want players at the club who want to help us be great,not those who will only come to us if we are already.
It’s the same thing as players who leave because we aren’t winning trophies. Those same players are part of the reason we aren’t succeeding,yet distance themselves from the responsibilty of failure by wanting out.
It defies logic.
The fact that we effectively put out a third string team against an extremely pricey Liverpool team, and held them until one of our players was sent off. Very proud of the young guns. However, I do wonder what changes we will make to the squad. I say, make Jack the creator, and have two DM’s behind him in Song and Frimpong. I don’t know who we have to buy anymore, we ran out of people in our squad who aren’t injured or suspended.
re the Bendtner/Chamakh mystery i read somewhere that because it’s ramadam just now the latter is having to fast (do please savour Chamakh and fast in the same sentence ‘cos it won’t happen too often), and so he’s a bit weak to play at the moment …
seems it’s not just the football gods who are not on our side right now –
Up The Arse!
AL, Nasri is fasting too. AW didn’t mind putting him on.
Always balanced ‘holic.Cheers.
Yes,there are some positives to be taken.
We had the scousers in control until the offside goal.
Well you win some you lose some.
Time to gear up for wednesday.
Frimpong was an accident waiting to happen all afternoon. Naive, unprofessional and indisciplined. He played well generally but he let the side down. He was lucky not to get a straight red and 3 game ban.
And don’t talk about ‘bad luck’ when you have sold our best player and added little more than more teenagers from the 3rd Division.
interesting SG @ 51 – yet another Arsenal mystery then – not a lot swirling round the club makes much sense at the moment and no-one connected with the place seems willing or able to offer up straight answers from team selection (Na$ and Cham) to transfer policy/funds to overall strategy (financial and team affairs etc) blah, blah, blahblahblah – all a little bit dispiriting really – ureds
This fellow knows how it feels …
http://youtu.be/8AodHdQ4O_U
Morning all. Long time no post. Not read through the comments, but watching the game yesterday I thought Frimpong’s first yellow was for not retreating from the player trying to take the throw quickly. He did it deliberately because there was a hole at leftback and a Liverpool player ready to receive the ball. Just my reading of it.
I love Wenger.
Is bad luck selling our best two players and not replacing them?.Is bad luck not sign a commanding CB and a LB? Is it bad luck to have one good striker at the club?Is it bad luck that the manager is tactically clueless.
No the bad luck is we have a manager who is stuck in a time warp.He still things its 2004 and we are still the best team in England
We have a dictator running our club and on the day Gadaffi is nearly overthrown its time our dictator was
The best option for the board to remove Wenger without losing face, would be to move him sideways into another role at the club. Youth coach would be the most suitable. That way the realists like me, get a new manager with fresh ideas, a new approach and who does not neglect his responsibilities. And the A.K.B.’s are spared the trauma of seeing their beloved poster boy humiliated.
It’s then a win-win situation for both parties. The alternative is that the board do nothing, the season goes from bad to worse, and pressure from the fans sees Wenger rightfully kicked out before January.
“In Arsene we rust.”
How can the Nasri deal to City not going through be a good thing?
1.We lose £23m
2.He joins Utd for free.They save £23m
3.It costs us £20m plus to replace him
4. We have an happy player who doesnt want to play for us
5.Sell the cunt
Scott @6;17 – That’s what Wenger is paid 6 million a year for – to deal with those difficult situations and players. In that, he’s no different to any other manager, many of whom are on a lot less salary than him. Don’t defend the indefensible.
“In Arsene we rust.”
Spectrum
Who would you suggest appointing as manager once you’ve shunted Wenger sideways? I’m presuming you have a candidate in mind who will keep us top four in the face of a series of rivals with vastly greater spending power, since you sound pretty confident in your little plan.
And is there a dumber Internet slogan than “in arsene we rust”? Yes, we can all see what you’ve done there, but it doesn’t actually make any sense, does it? You don’t rust “in” someone, do you?
A faulty slogan for some seriously faulty logic.
Spectrum#58
Agree Wenger should be removed but totally from the club.Not have him hanging around the club.Kroenke should judge him on results.
In all honesty Wenger should have been sacked after the collapse of last season.So this disastrous summer wouldnt have happened.We are two weeks into the season and still no CB signed FFS.No fit LB an injury to Szczesny and RVP and its CoCo and Chamakh
When are the AKB’s going to realise Wenger HAS lost it.He is no longer a good manager.The club needs a new leader,a new culture and new ideas
We are being left behind the top 3 and we pay the highest ticket prices in the world to watch a youth team
This summer Cesc and Nasri out,Next summer RVP TV5 and even Wilshire out
N7 Gooner
The same old stupid question who do you replace Wenger with? No one can do better than him can they?
Hiddink
Van Gaal
Rijkarrd
Ancelotti
All CL winners
Morning All & *boilk*
zico, tabs – god only knows how you kept going until that time this morning. Great to meet all four of you. zico, safe travels back to the home of the brave, don’t miss that flight! 😉
Holic,
Great post, summed it all up perfectly for me. Super post match drink and blether too, it turned a disappointing result on the field into an enjoyable afternoon 🙂
Real shame the idiots have crept and crawled their way back here after one poor result in quite exceptional circumstances with nothing to add but p*ss and thunder. Where are these seagulls when we’re having fun and decent debate? How can you write muck like that and think that you’re a supporter? How many of them have ever even been to see an Arsenal match? How many of them are still funded by pocket money? Shameful. Double meh!
Nothing but effort from the boys in red and white, liked seeing Nasri give 100 percent as well. Martin Atkinson, I don’t know where to begin…isn’t it time the FA clear out the deadwood among the referees?
Bad result for us but it might just be the impetus we need at this point in time. Time to pull our red socks up and get stuck in some last minute transfers and Udinese. Next week will be crucial.
A round of Carib beer for all the gooners in here. Let’s keep the red and white flag flying high…
£70m burning a whole in his pocket.But Wenger hasnt got a clue how to spend it
Nothing summed up Arsenal 2011.Than Nasri and Bendtner two players who cant leave the club quickly enough playing yesterday
Nasri will probably stay sleepwalk his way through the season and join United on a free.Remember Wenger saying another Flamini would never happen again.Get Nasri out the club even if we only get £10m for him.
Holic
How can you say the first three games dont matter?
RVP and TV5 playing in the Europa league.Dont think so
Hey tabs, I started doing sketches on the BTA sketch…I’m thinking of making IPA a mini-me type character…what do you think?
Good perspective CoR @ #64 and well said. Wednesday’s match is, indeed, the big one. Cheers for the drink, there another waiting for you when you’ve finished.
BtM @ #10, magnificent!
Trev, AtG and other from pervious drinks. Cheers to all of you. We’ll keep the faith.
Calling True Arsenal Supporters!
Sign the Petition, ‘Back Wenger, Support Arsenal’
http://www.petitiononline.com/Gunners1/petition.html
We need to stand together behind our manager and our club and stop these vicious and unwaranted attacks.
If you’re a true SUPPORTER stnad up and be counted and make your voice heard. The club is suffering and needs our support more than ever now in this difficult time. Sign and show your true support.
Yesterday was a poor performance.Without Szczesny and TV it could have been worse.Nothing going forward.Ramsey awful.Walcott and Arshavin invisible and our captain(sic)missing in action
This after Dalglish giving us a chance by leaving their best player on the pitch.Liverpool are average but fully deserved the win
Wenger is using the youngsters as a shield,but youngsters need to play alongside experience not fellow youngsters.Look how Cesc grow playing with Vieira and Jack alongside Cesc
We need to sign experience and players with premiership experience.Signing 17 year olds from division 1 will not help us now
Hi there Holic!
Alot of points for me to touch upon today. Bare with me as I’m replying almost 24 hours after the event and also my contact lens split on me on Friday so I’m going to try and ensure my typing is up to it.
Firstly, the heart of the midfield Nasri and Frimpong! Rightly so, Frimpong was as I’ve stated in the past, a young guy who loves a tackle. He didn’t quite have the experienced composure of Song yet, but you can see he has a bright future alongside the other contingent who do want to stay and play for this club for many years to come and give us their best as they progress.
Nasri to me was definitely affected by this whole Twitter saga, but I don’t want to get in to the negatives here and concentrate on the positives and there were glimpses of the Nasri from last season, who could shine once again on the back of our ex-Captains departure if he was to sign a new contract. The question would then be, would he still want to leave next season? Well at least he wouldn’t go for free! Nasri’s agents if your reading, it’s not rocket science, we all know football’s gone mad, sort it out guys!
Obviously Vermaelen’s name was the most called name throughout the game by the comentator’s for his outstanding performance, I know it was mainly by Alan Smith (Lol!) but even my neighbours pet cat could see TV was man of the match, even if those others got the full 3 points.
I think Miguel did a good job and Jenkinson too, whilst Theo, Ramsey & co were probably still slightly worn from Tuesday.
Above all we were effected by our injuries, suspended players, red cards etc and Tuesday’s high intensity match, whereas our opponents had an advantage over us in all of those said department’s. Well hoe else were they going to overturn an 11 and a half year fixture domination?
We’ll have one more league game before the end of the transfer window and the international break, where we would have played one and a half of our direct opponents once already, so we can then come back with one maybe two possible new signings, our suspensions back and Jack! It’ll be like last season again where our ex-Captain spent alot of time sidelined, but with a more experienced ‘young squad’ and impressive aquisitions!
I expect us to be back in the top four competing for the title comfortably by the end of September and if we’re not competing in the CL, we will have one less compo to worry about until next season when we’ll be back in all four again with silverware from this season to show!
Have to agree with the boss on this one, ‘it’s not all doom and gloom’, at this stage!
Up the Arsenalage!
🙂
Hadley
I will sign the petiton when Wenger SIGNS a CB a LB a midfielder with experience and a striker
I will not sign anything that backs the way Wenger is running the club now
Deal
tabs @ #16
Also magnificent. I doubt I could even sit up straight let alone type sense and high humour considering how much you probably imbibed by the time you wrote that. You’re clearly made of sterner stuff than me 😉
Again, great to meet you and WS. As for Wolfgang imposters, outrageous. The Security Team are now on a state of high-alert with flame-throwers set to ‘toast’.
Where’d all of these moaning gooners come from? Do you want directions to Le Grove?
tabs,
This will please you. Shame it’s in The Metro which is about as reliable as Farcelona press statement:
http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/872981-kaka-emerges-as-loan-transfer-target-for-arsenal
Maybe some desperate hack was listening in to our banter y’day? 😉
Spectrum @ various,
Do people at LG not like you either? Can’t think of many here who would be appreciating your verbage right now.
Haven’t posted in awhile ( family issues ). Holic, hope you had a good summer …. And when did this site become Le Grove?
There surely must be utter chaos within the board. Surely Wenger’s job description is to have stability both on and off the pitch. But I am alarmed at how the club has reached such a poor state in the space of 6 months. The rot started with the loss in the Carling Cup final. Players are beginning to feel disgruntled, stacking up of injuries, poor on-field discipline etc. I really think Wenger alone is not to blame. The board seems to have ring-fenced themselves and are hiding behind Wenger.
In the corporate world constant improvement in results every quarter will be rewarded while inconsistency would lead to heads rolling in the boardroom. The board must understand that player acquisition is a capital expenditure and would go a long way in boosting top line and bottomline growth. Right now the board seems he’ll bent on improving the bottomline first and targeting the less important factors of top line(read as ticket prices).
Oh Jesus ,spectrum has found this site..is nowhere safe. Your catchphrase is as sad and repetitive as you are. Tabs @16..well put.
The future is bright, the future is frimponged.
Reading between the lines, it looks like AW is dividing opinions and emotions are running high 😉
Positives first. I think you can tell within 5 games whether a player is good enough to make it at Arsenal. So, Frimpong, Jenkinson and Miquel are going to be the real deal.
However, it says in the book ‘Football Management for Dummies’ that you should always blend promising youngsters into a settled team, with experienced senior players to guide them along.
Surely someone should have had a quiet word with Frimpong to curb his enthusiasm
If Nasri’s move to City was a done deal, I cannot see how either club would have let him play yesterday. I think there is a story about Nasri’s agent having links with Bernard Tapie, and there is a long-standing personal vendetta between him and Wenger, after Marseille cheated Monaco out a league title.
After watching Miquel play, I’m still not convinced we need a CB. We definitely need a LB, a centre forward and a signing to wow us and feel optimistic.
We also need someone to give Arshavin and Walcott a big kick up the arse and remind them that they need to put in 8/10 performances week in week out.
Jason
Well done mate – you can name four managers who’ve won the champs league.
Any indication that any of them are interested in coming to Arsenal and managing on a budget?
Any evidence that Arsene Wenger is the sole cause of the club’s problems and that removing him and appointing, say, Van Gaal, will make those problems go away?
Any evidence that any of those managers can keep us top four in the most competitive league in the world on a net negative transfer spend? Of course, maybe you assume that Wenger has had tens of millions available to him in each of the last few summers and has simply refused to spend the dough. Maybe he’s been turning down Benzemas and Kakas all summer and Van Gaal will arrive, give the nod and we’ll set about building the next galacticos?
Or maybe you’re just a chippy keyboard warrior who can’t show the minimum level of respect to a man who has done more for Arsenal than all the moaning cunts who pollute the club’s blogs combined?
Yes we’re in a mess. No, I don’t think Wenger’s perfect (far from it). Buy for fuck’s sake try to grow a pair and stop your high pitched moaning, some of us are trying to support the Arsenal here.
Ah ,shining lights,yes of course they are. 2 spoilt schoolboys telling a bunch of malcontents exactly what they want to hear…every day..the same thing…every fucking day…the same thing.
Morning All ,
First of all may I apologise to ‘Holic and all regulars for my language last night @16 , 17 and 18 . I can offer no excuse other than a barrel full of beer and the fact that the sort of people who chose to visit this fine establishment last night and again this morning get under my skin .
To Ben and Wolfgang the Imposter , I offer no apology .
Canons@67 – Great stuff mate , go for it 🙂
TS , morning mate , great stuff after the game yesterday . Batted on with some friends after and it all got a bit messy , hence the late posts . So Wolfie has a cyber stalker eh ? As if the poor chap doesn’t have enough to contend with . 🙂
Spectrum, there is a saying that goes “be careful what you wish for – it might come true”. We as outsiders have very litte idea of what is actually going on inside the club, and none of us can know for sure if it is Arsene Wenger who calls the final shots. And also, if you demand that someone goes you have to think about what comes in. And if Arsene is not to blame then it doesn’t matter at best or at worst will make things even worse, right? Then it is the board that needs to get their act together – but you or I or anyone else who are not Arsene, Gazidis or a board memeber really knows the answer. I am not an AKB, I am just saying that we know too little to demand anyone’s head on a plate. Maybe Arsene IS to blame, but it can just as well be Gazidis, or it could be the board. Or any combination of the three. Or, for that matter, maybe our financial situation is far worse than we have been led to believe. Or… et c et c et c…
Spectrum, I know you are a dumpling, but seriously go away. When i want to read repetitive rantings I will choose something that makes me laugh, not your drivel. Saying the same 4 words over and over just shows your limitations, so why not go and play with the other dumplings where your limitations won’t be so obvious. Somewhere else! In case you did not understand, please go away. Soon. Now even. Whew, feel better now. UTA
Gone 65.
I do smile when I see those claiming to speak for all true Gooners. Not a clue do they have.
Let’s keep it civil please people. Thank you.
Crap, that should of course have been “but you or I or anyone else who are not Arsene, Gazidis or a board memeber really doesn’t know the answer”
Remind me to have a drink with you boys again some time. You know who you are? 😉
Cheers, thanks for that!
The pleasure was all mine ‘Holic 🙂
Heh, thinking of zico. Nothing worse than getting into a pressurised aircraft cabin with the hangover from hell 🙂
Cheers ‘Holic, you can count on it, like tabs the pleasure was all mine 😀
I reckon zico is made of tough stuff but the boilk might just spoil his flight home 😉
Thanks for the ‘clear-out’ BTW. I think you need to install some kind of keyboard warrior filter to stop the idiots regularly separating from their villages and ending up here. What an invention that would be! Maybe I could ask Edwin…? 🙂
Good write-up, ‘holic. Well done on not ending up in Wales too!
Great to meet some ‘holics yesterday.
Heh 🙂 I suspect Dr Z will need to call on all of his considerable medicinal powers to get himself home today .
I am completely baffled as to how you made it back to Swindon , and then managed to write such great stuff . 7 stops up the Piccadilly line was almost beyond me 🙂
It is a think of wonder indeed tabs.
At least there’s always one great thing on the ST: I go to the terminus.
Heh , Ollie , I can only applaud you on your foresight ! On days like yesterday , I just thank the heavens , I don’t live on the Circle Line ! If that were the case , I think in all probability , I would still be on the tube now , wondering why it’s taken me 8 hours to travel 2 stops 🙂
Heh Ollie, glad to see you made it back in one piece. The ‘homing instinct’ is strong in all of us, I think 😉
Good point tabs @ #93. I’ll also admit to passing out on the sofa after an hour or so with the family when I got home. How ‘Holic managed that journey and a great post is beyond me too.
Presumably that’s why the Circle Line doesn’t go round in circles anymore, right, tabs?
‘holic and co who were (apparently) drinking to forget certain things that happened on the field yesterday – do you realise that you are setting us young(?) things on this blog a poor example
the last thing we need is drink to sort out – doh
Anyway, to serious things – it is clear that none of us could be arsed by the pseudo-Wolfie who is clearly a very cheep sheep at heart
It is clear (to me) that there are tensions within the directorship/management structure when
– AW denied knowledge of negotiations that clearly were taking place re Cesc, so wasnt he in the loop
– he used Sami and Bendy yesterday, possibly in the hope that the board (IG?) will realise that resolution of both bids and sales is urgent to our progress in the season and using these two against Udinese will mean that their sales value is diminished.
Alternatively maybe that is a way of keeping those two – which deep thinking he has always been capable of…
Ollie: yeah, TFL got tired of all those people who never got off the trains on weekends 🙂
Unless of course you’re used to it 😉
Ollie @97 , good point , well made 😳
Morning Dr Z , how’s the head mate ? Speaking for myself , I am finding the effort required to smoke and sit up straight at the same time a bit beyond me .
Well in zico. Get your boots ready for the Old Toilet 😉
Dr Z, ’twas a pleasure to encounter someone with an even greater capacity than meself. How on earth did you carry on until that hour 😉
Oh so that’s what it was. I had stumbled upon a drinkers’ convention yesterday. 😉
How much of a bad influence is that ‘holic?
The flag goes up. Andy Cap is aware he’s offside. He thumps the ball into the net anyway in a Cap moody. Ref gives a yellow card.
MacSMo “That’s a bit harsh a yellow card for that!”
Didn’t the clown know he was commenting at the home of the team who were knocked out of Europe because Robin was RED carded for playing on in Barcelona by a Swiss Cuckoo Clock Maker who will be sans testicules if he ever visits the Kingdom?
Where is the balance in this game?
To be fair, BtM, Andy Cap had a looooooooooot more time NOT to shoot.
And it took a while for the ref to get this yellow card out.
Is NB52 the footballing equivalent of ‘Kate Adie’?
You know your team / country is f*cked when he /she belately turns up on the scene
Sounds like the booze up was better than the game. Liverpool will continue to improve, I’m not sure you will
yes it is already very dark at this stage as we want arsenal to finish in the top four . we may end up fighting not to be in the bottom four .
a bunch of immatures picking up already three reds after two games
This has not been the best week of my life watching football. On Thursday I had to suffer the indignity of my local being infested with scores of ugly LWCs. And then I suffered further watching the team of LWCs put 5 goals without reply against what was a pretty poor SPL side. Such is the nature of that league, the defeat was expected if not quite the scoreline.
But something more pronounced happened at the Grove yesterday as I witnessed for the first time Arsenal losing a match at home. Now admittedly, geography has a bit to do with that, and thus I usually only manage to get to 4 or 5 games a season, but when we had 11 players on the pitch I didn’t see that unbeaten series being broken. Then young Frimpong saw red, in more ways than one, and I agree with the esteemed barman that this was a turning point in the match.
There were still positives to be taken from yesterday, covered above, and let’s face it if we let them win once every 11 years then we can all probably live with that, don’t you think?
It still turned out to be a great day, the football aside. Finally meeting the Landlord was a pleasure, as of course was the introductions to the other players in the side. We had “the ideas” man, True Storey, the inimitable takeabowson, who at some point in the proceedings had a devil in each of my ears, suggesting that I would be best to stand up those who had patiently waited on me getting Arsenal out of my system and continue on the rum and coke (and I haven’t forgotten the “double” trick, Wolfgang). As it turned out he was probably right. Flitting in and out of things, was Ollie, the silent assassin, with the occasional sardonic remark and then giving due concentration to his whiskey. My only regret from yesterday was being too shy to ask to be introduced to the Arseblogger – and I still don’t know what he even looks like – maybe another time.
What was patently obvious was that I was in the midst of real Arsenal fans and it was a privilege to sink a few with them. The difference between these good souls and the keyboard warrior children,like Spectrum above, is beyond my ability to put into words. Suffice to say one group are Arsenal Supporters and the others are whining, needy attention seekers. The antipathy of Supporters in fact.
So I am now calmly sitting at Heathrow, reflecting on whether my next liquid should be coffee or Guinness and poring over Holics words about hangovers and pressurised air cabins. That didn’t take much reflecting – roll out the barrel…..
Afternoon ‘holic & holics. Good to see the recovery powers are still strong after what i can only assume was a right session with copious amounts of nectar had by all. Slight boilk myself this morning but a great way to put it all into perspective. From my throne of misery (a self inflicted drink addled state of mind, not to be confused with the Le Grove et al general outlook on life) i came to terms with what is happening with our club at the moment. Although only a recent postererer…um..erer those who have seen my comments know i am always a glass half full chap. I could go into a long rant and address those ambidextrous “keyboard wankarriors” individually but that would be futile, instead i raise my glass to those of us here who know that come what (in) may, we are red and white, committed gooners for life! As always it’s great to be a Gonner and its more than a moniker!
Cheers zico @ #111
Again, it was a real pleasure. Make sure you get back down to the HoF really soon and another enjoyable ‘swallie and blether’ can be had 🙂
Great post Dr Z . Hope it won’t be too long before the next session .
Oh and the Double thing … is there really any other measure worth having ? What’s that I hear you say … a treble … now you’re talking 🙂
Safe trip home mate .
Cheers guys
Already looking forward to it 😀
Safe journey, Dr Z!
Safe flight Dr Z!
Sounds like you had a superb time yesterday! Glad there is such strong bonding here in a nice way of course.
CMC is still needed head decided to go into a migraine mode…
Up the Arse!
Cusop
50 years of hurting aint as bad I suppose….
BtM @ 106. The only thing to do is to avoid these commentary morons by watching a stream with commentary in a language you don’t speak.
PC playing up again so late to the bar. It may well find itself replaced by a Mac tomorrow so I’ll have a whole new system to learn.
Despite the result and the obvious problems and shortcomings there were a lot of positives from the match; Chesney was outstanding, Verm and Kos very assured, Jenkinson continues to do well considering his inexperience at this level and Miquel looks to be a good, if slightly novice defender – his day will come. Frimpong was quite magnificent although a bit raw and green – hence the red card. I thought Ramsey did OK but he needs experience and to get fully match fit. Robin is obviously class but is he a target man? I’ve always thought he is at his best playing just behind a front man. Arshavin continues to disappoint as did Theo who I have always rated but his lack of progress is worrying. Nasri, as usual played in fits and starts showing some good things but never really imposing himself on the game.
There was some exceptional good young talent on the bench so the future does look bright but we all know what is required in the interim to shore things and up help these young players grow and blossom – I’ll say no more.
We just need a result in Italy…………………………
Dr Z, you silly sod, why didn’t you say. Blogs would have been chuffed to meet a kindred spirit.
Next you will be telling me you wanted a chat with Dara 😉
Zico, you can’t miss with the hair of the dog 😉
Zico, I’m glad you made it back safely! 🙂
TS, that piece was in the metro but it’s a report from the people, maybe that’s a more reliable paper (clutching…)? 🙂
Well captured on yesterday’s game sir. It was a pleasure to see you again and by the way I owe you a pint. Every time I looked over you had a full pint o’ plain to two in operation.
Best regards.
Good post, ‘holic. Agree on Nasri, but I also hope he stays. He’s a big player, regardless of what he’s said.
It’s no problem, aj. As you noticed I did not go thirsty 🙂
Very interesting read:
http://www.thefootballnetwork.net/main/s378/st170548.htm
I can of course not guarantee that it is true in any way, but it most certainly does rhyme well with the theory that Arsene knows exactly what is needed but is not given the resources to do it. And it is not the first article to mention a rift between Wenger and the board either, there is perhaps starting to be a bit too much smoke for there not to be at least a little bit of a fire underneath it.
I so hope that Arsene will one day write a book and let us know what has really been going on in these past few years.
Interesting slant on our strange (in)activity during this transfer window. Explains the whole cock-up!
http://www.thefootballnetwork.net/main/s378/st170548.htm?
snap! (fortunately not another arsenal leg!)
Bath, you were just like Denilson – a bit too slow 😉
Luck??? What a bunch of drunks.
Evening all, getting on here very late in the game when I just wanted to add some positives but they’ve been well covered in the drinks.
Seriously though, the snot-covered kids need to get back to their homework and finish off their algebra while they leave reasoned conversation to the grown-ups.
Listen up bellends:
We know things aren’t great, we know we need signings, noone wanted to lose the game. But for Effs sake we’ve had ONE week of football!
So shut your holes and go and post your immature little toy-throwing crap on Yahoo Sports – it’ll make you look intelligent in that window-licking environment.
Twats!
UTA and thanks for another great post.
Well said, CG.
Holic – Dara is quite funny but I was banking on Internet Joe 😉
Impressively lucid your post last night considering what went on before – well played sir.
http://www.thefootballnetwork.net/main/s378/st170548.htm sounds plausible
haha sorry bathgooner, didn’t realise you beat me to it!
and Lars!
Interesting article Lars, if there is a rift between the board and arsene then the situation is pretty dire. I agree with arsene though on the defence and its quality however he has a blind spot when it comes to the left back position. Unfortunatley money talks and big pay rises are what comes with the teritory if you want to compete, just ask man u “loyalist” spud rooney. Am very dissapointed the mata deal fell through, we are now competing with too many big spenders across the continent and any normal agent would run a mile before he lets his client talk to Arsene who could easily convince the player but not his wallet.
Really interesting article (thanks Lars, bath, and the beast 🙂 ). Who really knows if it’s true, but if it is, then the board have a lot to answer for.
I would say it’s time for Silent Stan to speak.
Noel: if we assume that the article is true and do some extrapolation then it is not very unlikely that Clichy was sold and not replaced against Arsene’s wishes.
In any case it looks very much like cracks are beginning to appear in the once so smooth and cuddly public image of the relationship between Arsene and the board.
Joshua: agree very much, a proper statment of intent from Mr Silent would be quite appropriate now.
Righty ho , the head has cleared it’s time for my take on all things yesterday . Great to see that the Bar has been cleared of the nihilists , and it is the good old regulars propping up the Bar .
First of all , a great link by both Lars and bathgooner . It unfortunately chimes with much of what I had to say about the Board , more of which later .
The mood in the Tollie pre kick off was a strange mix of black humour , bemusement at the lack of established quality signings , and defiance . Defiance because we all knew that a team that had already been stripped of its major creative force had been ravaged by injury and it has to be said self-inflicted suspension , and that the support would be needed against a Liverpool side , which whilst not top draw , will finish top six this season .
First of all the crowd . The home support is oft-maligned as too quiet , too fickle and just too damn spoilt to enjoy what they are currently being offered . There is some truth in all these accusations , but these failings were not in evidence yesterday . The crowd were up for it from the get go . Every crunching tackle , every won header , and every well placed pass was cheered to the rafters . Had we scored , the cheers would have been heard in Liverpool .
On the plus side , Verm and the out of position Sagna were true warriors , showing commitment , bravery , and no little skill in organising and setting an example to their younger colleagues . Kos showed every reason to believe he would have been as equally effective had not an untimely injury cut short his afternoon . Having watched the much lauded Cahill this afternoon , I’m sorry but I just don’t get that he is a better player than Kos .
Miguel came on and did far far better , than any of us had a right to reasonably expect . Calm in possession , precise in his distribution , and more than held his own in the physical challenges . Put a bit more flesh on his bones and we might just have a player there . Time will tell .
Jenks was steady , and worked his young Arse off . He will only improve with the tremendous attitude he appears to have .
For the third time this season our young keeper was magnificent . Back in the summer of 2010 I was staggered we didn’t sign a keeper . Of course I was wrong . The great Arsene Wenger was right .
As regards the midfield , first impressions can of course be wrong , but every now and then a youngster comes along , and you just know he’s got it . Frimpong looked at home immediately . He was disciplined in position , drove the team forward , rarely gave the ball away , and was very close to scoring a cracker . That his reaction to Reina’s save was to exhort the crowd to more vocal encouragement were the actions of a man born to play football in front of 60,000 people . He provided a scare factor which we have lacked for some time . He frightened me , and I was in row Z . Yes , his second yellow was rash and ultimately turned the game , but if he learns from it , as he surely will , then he deserves our support , and not the ridiculous condemnation of some .
Nasri showed both why we will miss him , if he eventually goes , and also why 23m + is too good an offer to turn down . Norfolk Dumpling above is in my view spot on . A very skilful footballer , but how often have you seen him dominate a game ? Rarely , would be my stab .
On the downside , Ramsey struggled . These games are to be expected of one who is still early in his full rehabilitation . He struggled to live with the pace of the game , but until injuries and suspensions subside , or until reinforcements arrive , he will have to struggle on . We’re with you all the way Rambo .
Both Walcott and Arshavin struggled for differing reasons . Arshavin was more industrious than he can sometimes be , but was wasteful in possession , whilst Theo just did not get into the game at all .
VP was too often isolated and failed to make too much of an impact . The system we play needs a conductor and often an eye of the needle pass . With the end of the Fab era , I’m not sure we have it . With our midfield currently decimated , is it too much to ask that at least in the short term we go 4-4-2 ?
That said , I don’t think it is too fantastical to suggest that had Robin’s shot crept in at the near post instead of being fortuitously saved by Reina , our Carling(ish) cup side may well have held on for a victory that would have stirred the blood .
At the final whistle there was a mercifully brief chorus of booing by the disaffected few which provoked an immediate and sustained response from the more enlightened majority . The applause for the boys as they left the pitch was both lengthy and heartfelt for an effort drenched in sweat and showed more than ever that we are all in this together .
And so off to the Tollie with the Guv’nor , TS , Dr Z and Ollie . The chat flowed as did the real drinks . My head still hurts , but boy was it worth it . Fantastic chaps , one and all . I salute you . Roll on the next time .
Finally a word on the “apparent” malaise currently afflicting the Club . As Lars quite rightly pointed out to those of a dogmatic persuasion , unless you’re a Board member , all we can do is speculate . My own take is that the article Lars linked to above probably gets very near the truth .
David Dein is unlikely to have given those interviews without AW’s say so , and there is more than an implicit undertone that AW is at odds with the Board . I would hazard a guess that it is the Board’s refusal to sanction a breaking of a rigid wage structure which is hampering AW’s efforts to make “super quality” signings .
That AW is being hung out to dry by the Board as parsimonious , is I feel a stain on the Club .
Time for Silent Stan and his cohorts to stand up and be counted , to address the appalling PR of the club , and to stand full square behind a man who should be recognised as one of the greatest managers of all time .
A round of drinks for all in the Bar .
Great post Tabs, even on the telly you could sense that the roof would come off the place if we scored, was a real underdog feeling. Pity that moment didnt come, but it will.
Tabs
Spot on analysis of both the good and the bad, and one of the most sensible comments about the Arsenal I’ve read in some time.
With you on every word of it. Particularly liked the reference to Frimpong’s frantic attempts to raise the crowd – highlight of the afternoon that was and not something I can recall seeing previously from many young lads less than 45 mins into their Arsenal career. He’ll be a player will that one.
Re: the issue of Wenger and the board – whether the article is correct or not, it’s time for someone else at the club (probably IG) to step in front of the Prof and take a few shots to the chin on his behalf. The man has shouldered far more than his share of criticism these last few months, much of it from supposed Gooners who demonstrate a fraction of his love for the club, and he’s got enough on his plate right now without becoming the designated punch bag for football’s retard faction.
Noel and N7 ,
Thanks Chaps and if i may return the compliment , magnificent work by the pair of you earlier in the drinks , dealing with the f*cktards .
Evening gents.
I’ve already had my say about yesterday on the previous drinks, so I only wish to add that I was humbled by the compliments from fellow ‘holics (Incl Lars, Trev and CG) who’s opinions I hold in high esteem.
Glad to hear the ‘holic family picnic was a resounding success and releived that you all made it home safe and sound.
From the previous drinks;
251Snir Geuli
Snowy – My 247 is my response to your 249.
====
Now if that doesn’t guarentee Snir the position of HT clarvoyant then I don’t know what will. 🙂
I’m on the lager at the mo, nice cold Bavaria fresh from the tap. You’re welcome to join.
Just got in, so apologies if you have seen this… but it makes interesting reading http://www.thefootballnetwork.net/main/s378/st170548.htm
H2H@146: heh, well spotted! So Snir, what are next week’s winning lottery numbers? 🙂
CG – You’re the fourth one to link that 😀
H2H – I agree :).
Tabs – This is especially for you!
I was watching Internacional Vs. Flamengo (on an Israeli channel) and the broadcasters talked about a possible return to the NT for Ronaldinho and Kaka.
The broadcaster then replied to his colleague (he’s Brazilian with Brazilian contacts) that there are very very strong talks in Brazil that Kaka’s on the verge of an Arsenal move.
I’ve also noticed a different element trying to sneak their way past the bouncers. These “realists” (*tries not to choke on drink*) have differing opinions then some of us. I like to air on the side of positivity and my fingers do not always feel the need to point when the so called blame is ready and waiting to be allocated, but hey, thats me.
Luckily we are also blessed with a landlord who choses the virtue of patientce and delivers his message without condemnation and is a true red (sorry couldn’t use blue) supporter of our chosen club. a reason why I and I’m sure many of you chose to patronise this fine establishment.
I value greatly the opinions of the regular patrons, the dream team as I like to call them, your wit and humour brighten up my days. Hoewever a worrying pattern has emerged, there seems to be a great divide in beliefs about how our beloved club should be run. As you all know I am not in the fire Wenger camp, I think the very suggestion is ludicriss, however I’m also not an AKB’er, of course I realise that the man has flaws, who doesn’t?
I’m also aware that the rise of the internet and our success over a prolonged period has spawned a new kind of “fan”, the keyboard warrior, bandwagon jumpin’, glory hunting, want it all and want it now brigade. These guys have differing opinions to many I respect here (supporters) and myself BUT, in the end we are all here for one thing and that is our love for the Arsenal, so I implore you that we don’t let this bar turn into a sess pool of abuse hurling at fellow gooners.
Fellow supporters. we need to teach these fans what it means to be a gooner, ‘holic has lead the way with his retro stories and memories, we need to show (respectfully) that bitching and moaning isn’t the way forward and the job of a real supporter is to get behind the team through thick and thin, for better and enevitably for worse. I was glad that the crowd got behind the team yesterday, it’s the classy thing to do and it made me proud.
If you are an eternal doom and gloomer then I respectfully suggest that you take a look at 90 or so other league clubs that would die to be in our position, either that, or take up tiddly winks .
To sum up, I’ll try to quote something I remember reading on Arseblog.
We’re all on the same team, yet we’re argueing like Kramer and Kramer, that would make one of us Meryll Streep and nobody wants that do they?
Sorry to go all Ghandi on you guys, just thought it needed to be said,
A drink for everyone, supporters and fans alike.
Arsenal for life.
Cheers,
TABS – could you start some more good rumours please – it’s gobe global! Great stuff.
Snir – hence the apologies in advance! 🙂
Pipe…?
Just catching up on drinks above and only want to echo tabs sentiment of thanks to all the regular holics on here who dealt with the inevitable wave of moaners who come on here after every poor result. I am never more sad to be a gooner than after a loss and it has nothing to do with the boss or the players, who played their hearts out on Sat, but rather that such whiny bitches associate with this great club. This blog and the regulars at the bar are refreshing in the face of that.
Catalan, did you call? 😉
PiK, you disappoint me…
I guess you don’t have it in you to open the ‘Oakland Tollington’ 😉
Great write up, tabs! Man, it was getting rowdy in here earlier. I just finished a match where the guys shouting for everyone to calm down were being more testy then the original protagonists- felt a little like that. When’s the last time you saw a proper bar brawl in here Holic?
If anyone wants a drink, on me. Just don’t scream in my face please, I’m too busy feeling sorry for myself that Wenger doesn’t do what I want.
😉
Right , feeling a little drunk now having trawled my way through all the drinks posted post-game on the previous blog .
H2H magnificent stuff from you . Your usual voddy awaits Sir . As regards your post above , more great stuff though I fear there is no hope for many of the doomers . I disagree with you on one point . Wolfie most certainly would like to be Merryll Streep 🙂
Brazilian Gooner from the last round of drinks – don’t know if you’re still reading , but are you my old mucker from The Better Hearth in Holloway Rd ? If it is , as i suspect , great to see you on here and a massive drink from me for you .
Snir and Dr C – this Kaka stuff is amazing isn’t it ! I was stupid enough to repeat my thoughts on this pre game in the Tollie and I wasn’t even pissed at that stage . I did elicit a belly laugh from the great Blogs from Arseblog on that one , so I will be disappointed if it doesn’t get a mention on his page at some point .
I note that Yogi called the rumours comical this morning , but to me it continues to make perfect sense –
1. Kaka will never be a Maureenho type player .
2. His mother is on record as saying he would be playing in London this season .
3. He is one of the few players in the world who can slot into the Fab role and make our present system work .
4. He is injury prone .
5. He is one of the few players in the world whose name alone has a commercial kudos which could in part offset the astronomic wages .
6. Kaka is on record himself as stating his admiration for both Arsenal and Arsene .
You heard it here first 🙂 I’m after that statue Snir
PIK my old mate , didnt see you there . Let’s get the pipes , and crack open the Californian and ruminate awhile on the turning of the tide .
It will happen – let us hope Arsene wins his battle with the Board .
AW lost his best mate and board member Dein and Dein has come out in suport of AW as you would expect,what is going on who knows but the main thing is not to attack the team the players who ever they may be are in the red and white, we would all love some big names to cheer on to mix with the talented youth that we display,but for now it seems we are in the middle of an Mexican standoff,will be interesting if the Nasri sale still goes ahead,my worst nightmare is lose to the udinese Nasri sale folds so no CL money and Nasri then leaves for free that is a great ceal of coin lost hope this dont happen come on Arsenal
Yes tabs it is me,I’ve been so inspired by your contributions I felt I had to make one of my own.
Any drinks offered are gratefully received.
Heh tabs.
I always saw Wolfie as more of a Dustin Hoffman (Tootsie) type 😆
H2H, you are a top man, thank you.
Heh ,Hello Brazilian , how’s life in the sun ? It quite made my day to see your post , and I also see your boys are riding high in Holic’s fantasy league . Get yourself in Holic’s regulars league .
Was at the game yesterday with Kev M and even managed to persuade him to forsake the Compton for The Tollie .
Holic , I can vouch for this lad , he’s a top top boy .
A drink of your choice Sir .
PS I am a much better squash player than you are 🙂
H2H @160 heh , you could be right , but Wolfie would say he is far more handsome 🙂
Invitation has gone to Brazilian, TaBS.
Great stuff Holic . Thank you .
http://www.thefootballnetwork.net/main/s378/st170548.htm
do you think it s any true on the lattest rumor that wenger and the actual board dont agree how the tranfer budget should be use with the board refusing to pay the high wages and agent fee of the big signing wenger want .thats how we suppose to have lost to mata,they refuse paying the salary and agent fee have ask
if it s any true that could be a scandal
Tabs – It does make sense but if you take a look at the piece that’s been linked 5 (!!!!!!!!) times then you know that the board won’t give AW the liberty to pay top dollar and Kaka is on 175K a week is way above our 110K maximum.
Ah Snir you had to go and ruin the dream with good old fashioned common sense BUT ….
1. astronomical wages might not rule out a loan deal .
2. See my point about his commercial kudos .
I shall continue to dream 🙂
And on that note , I’m off . Catch you all tomorrow .
Blimey! Took some perseverance to get through that lot. Lucky I was out all day.
Good stuff, all the regulars, and thanks to Lars and bathgooner for the links to the ‘Wenger’ article.
I said in yesterday’s drinks that the current situation may well not be AW’s fault, but that he would be far too loyal to say so.
That article seems very plausible and supports that argument.
It simply makes no sense that a man of AW’s knowledge, experience and often demonstrated frustration at our failure to get over the line, would willingly do nothing about it and subject himself to more of the same.
If the article is true, then let’s hope the manager wins this one, and quickly.
Great stuff TABS @142, and H2H @150 😉
Wasn’t even going to mention the idiots who invaded this morning, but they could do with a visit to “Lars’ ” link.
Would they even want to read anything positive about the manager?
What do they get out of following – can’t say supporting – the Arsenal anyway?
Probably too late but nightcaps for the regulars. Lars’ tab, of course 😉
Tabs – AW: “Overall, we will buy. We will bring experienced players as well. People just say ‘buy’ but it’s to buy the right player which is difficult.”
Question is who, I’d say Kaka is pretty experienced 😉
Unfortunately, I haven’t joined the fantasy leagues ‘cos I know I won’t have time to follow and update it, but it would have been fun.
🙁
Been checking in and out all day and i have to say its a great example of why true Gooners of a certain way of thinking frequent the place. Your all a credit to the club folks, have a round of drinks on me. The article linked above it has to be said does provide a best fit for the current scenario and its now time for the board in any case to show us supporters where their true ambitions lie. Back the man who has given us lucky supporters(plenty of great Gooners fans past who deserved to see glory days like we have but didnt) the best period of success in the clubs history, he knows what he is doing despite the now ‘popular’ consensus to the contrary in certain sections. I still believe we can turn this around easily but have real concerns that the doom mongerers may get their way if the board dont get the finger out.
I love Emmanuel Frimpong.
His dialogue with Cunt Morgan (didn’t really get what started it, probably a Morgan dig at Frimpong).
@piersmorgan if u don’t like my hair its kool but don’t start chatting on twitter like that ur a big man show it
@EmmanuelF4 I don’t care if you want to look like Mr T’s kid brother. I do care that you got sent off on debut and cost us the match.
@piersmorgan U should be ashamed to call urself an arsenal fan all u do is moan about ur team y don’t u do ur job and i will do mine waste
@EmmanuelF4 Easy, Tiger. Try winning some games (when you’re allowed to play again) and trust me, my mood will soon improve. #Arsenal
And of course, Jacky boy came to his defense. I LOVE Jack Wilshere.
@piersmorgan easy piers he was one of our best players till then! He wanted to show his spirit and mistimed a tackle! Still a great player!
I love it that even our players know what a cunt Morgan is.
@161
Cheers ‘holic, and you are welcome sir.
You are the sheriff and I was just trying to play the deputy, according to the late, great, Bob, that was the safer job. 😛
tabs/Wolfie /Meryll/Dustin the voddie has endured the same fate as the sheriff and has been well and truly shot.
A good night to one and all.
Tabs – @156.
Your number 2 is not relevant anymore 🙁 (I hate to be the one breaking the bad news, I’d love for Kaka to sign too but it seems to illogical 😥 )
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/191485/Kaka-move-s-a-nun-story/
I for one have put Saturday behind me,(yes it hurts, very bad) but we need to push on and qualify for the CL which means a big payday and most definitely signings.
Que sera sera
Whatever will be will be
Were going to get kaka
Que sera sera
Que sera sera
Were going to stadio friuli
Que sera sera
Push forward holics and fellow gooners the grass is always greener than the city stadium or bernabeau
Holic @164 – heh, guess that’s just relegated The GT Rollers another place!
Trev @171 – what a weird concept – “updating”. Just pick a team in ten minutes and then log in once a week to see how they go. Foolproof. Oh.
Snir @175 -I’m sure TABS’ number 2s are relevant, to him at least.
The fantasy league. I was so busy larging it on Friday night, then making homemade burgers for the barbie on Sat, that I plum forgot to change my team for week 2.
Picked up a desultory 23 points for my trouble. Thinking it could have been worse, only dropped 1 place…
Won’t be picking up any points tonight of course – no IOUs, and most definitely no LWCs allowed near the beloved Boy Racers!
Essex and Arsenal for life.
23points???? Desultory??? 🙁
Heh CG, do I sound like a spoilt doomer?
Camberwell Gooner OUT. Can’t manage a fantasy team. Stubborn old goat. Talks about only bringing in super quality then fails to make any signings before the deadline. Running the Boy Racers into the ground with his failed experiments.
Rubbish manager!
(Now which holics are going to come out in support and tell everyone to calm down and be careful what they wish for?)
Kos is a good player and improving all the time but Cahill is better … than say err – Squealler – The point is surely that we deperately need depth in the squad – quality cover. it was clear b4 the season started and it’s even clearer now that our first choice defenders are falling over like drunken uncles at a wedding
For me the pressing issue that really needs sorting is understanding why Arsene is unable to make the signings he apparently wants to make – and then have someone at the club sort that out effin quickly so that deals can get done in the immediate short-term and the club can begin to dig itself out of this dirty great Emirates sized hole it (almost inexplicably) finds it self in .
Come on the board let’s see you do something positive/useful right now – ‘cos the eyes of wised up Gooners are starting to turn towards you and look at your role in this current mess – so do please pull your fingers out (of the Arsenal pie) and make something happen for Arsene, the club and its fans (even the cocks, they know who they are) … especially as presumably most of Arsene’s time is going to be taken up preparing the chaps for the tricky Itie tie
Up The Arse!
Dr C
Interesting read from your link, just makes you wonder I suppose.
CG – you should go with my policy – after just 2 games I have 5 players injured or suspended. I have also missed the opportunity to make any transfers. That would never happen in real life, would it??
Catalan and Camberwell – the CG twins, heh
Transfers? I never even knew you could.
I have faith in zese players….
8 ball I see you are Top of League …. Fantasy Leage that is 🙂
Just got rid of 5 players and it has to be said I bought Shrek just for tonight as a special treat!
Barman one for the hangover please…. make sure it’s extra cold!
The CG twins 🙂
Hardly anyone can tell us apart. Both hailing from exotic urban locales where the sun always shines, the beer flows nightly and beautiful beaches are a short bus ride away.
The only difference? He has to share his urban space with the world’s biggest bunch of gobshite, tapping-up, big-headed, DNA-obsessed, spunk-covered, cheating, diving, whining, ref-blowing, snivelling, red-and-blue-wearing, Times New Roman-advertising, thick, ugly, short, tippy-tappy, bitching little cuuuuuuuuuuunts.
Wow. That felt good.
Heh – hard to argue CG!
ATG – you are truly the Ranieiri (spelling?) of the HT league! Like Zico, I believe in the super quality of my players, and to sign others would kill them.
Sky Sports jizzing themselves over how thet told teacher about naught Arsene. Snivelling little pricks, the lot of them.
Out of interest – surely Arsene could have just said he was calling a friend – what would they do? Subpoena his phone records?
“they” , “naughty” 🙂
CG – you mean they grassed him up? Conspiracy.
Dr C
It’s my Polish local team name, they are rubbiish now and got relegated last season same colours as Barca though…
Wenger 2 match Euro ban by Uefa for breaking suspension rules,
can it get any worse.??
Clive
I dont think it can get any worse than this!
UEFA will probably tell the referee to award Udinese a penalty if need be now. …
I take it the fine imposed will also be directed towards the ‘fund for improvement of technology in football’? What? Oh. Cunts.
Ollie 🙂
Arthur
it might mate if the players don’t step up on wed night.!!
A bit of good news,Jack has trained for the past 3 days and is a good chance to play on wed.
Further good news,Squilly has a calf injury.!!
Clive
*chuff chuff chuff*
The HT seems to be building a head of steam…
I predict arsene to communicate only through eye brow movements from now on
Clive
Indeed good news regarding Jack and Squilly I shiver at the thought of him being in the team. Surely Arsene knows he is not the quality required?
Could it be worse, we shall see!
However bad it gets Cus, we won’t be waiting 50 years for another league flag.
Don’t you have a borough to rebuild?
Afternoon All ,
Can I reiterate as many others have done before me , what a great source of comfort this site is , to be able to come on here and find an oasis of calm , wit , and yes measured criticism amid the maelstrom of negativity that currently engulfs our great club is truly marvellous .
Trev@169 – Thank you for your kind words and a tip of the hat to both you and AL @1 for perhaps pointing the finger of blame in the right direction , prior to the appearance of the “Lars link” .
Could be worse@172 and You Dont want to be here@176 – consistently brilliant stuff throughout the drinks , and apologies for not pointing it out earlier .
Snir@175 – I’m not yet ready to rule out Kaka based on a report in May that says he’s not going to Chelsea . His mother may have only mentioned London , in the context of a bit of light praying , but how do we know she wasn’t praying that her beloved Son join the mighty Arsenal ? Older Gooners will remember that in 1980 , Arsenal made an attempt to sign the teenage Maradona , funded in large part by outside commercial bodies . The story was reported on the saturday BBC 10 o’clock news just after Dallas and had the young Tabs literally wetting his junior Speedoes . Ok , it didn’t happen , but the attempt was made . I remain confident that you will be building that statue 🙂
Dr C was quite right . Never underestimate the importance of a No.2 . Without a no.2 my posts would of course just be full of sh*t . What’s that you say … ? … Oh 🙁
Now then , this fantasy league , if time allows expect wolfgang Smallballs to pop in later for an MOTD interview exclusive . Sitting pretty in third , he is feeling very gay at the mo .
Camberwell – As regards the Boy Racers ” in Camberwell I trust ” .
Dr C – get rid of your Mancs and I feel the good times will start to roll for the Green Tin Rollers .
Arthur@185 – Shrek !!!??? Sorry to hear you’ve gone over to the dark side mate 🙂
Clive/The Sweeper @192 – Chin up old son , important game this week . Of course it could be worse , as the wise old Bird @172 says , you could be a spud 🙂
The extended ban is ludicrous . What did Maureenho get for hiding in a laundry basket and flouting the ban completely ? I don’t normally hold much truck with conspiracy theories , but don’t be surprised if Udinese get a dodgy pen on wednesday .
Time to get back on the Happy Train boys . The Italian Job awaits . Let’s go there and blow more than the bloody doors off .
Drinks for all in the Bar .
quality strokes @ 202 Wolfie – I look forward to your debut on MotD 😉
Hey Dr Z , how you doing ? Have to say I’m feeling much more clear headed . Yesterday was a bit of a write off after Saturday’s shenanigans .
Tabs – good to hear it. Those Boy Racers may lack a bit the spark but they’ve got Mental Strength (TM) in bucketloads.
As for your Italian Job reference:
*Somewhere deep in the Alps, the HT MkII teeters dangerously on a precipice*
Hang on lads, I’ve got a brilliant idea…
Camberwell @205 – heh , great stuff 🙂
tabs @ 204 – there was a yesterday? 🙂
I’m seriously fine and predictably underwhelmed with life (it’s Monday) – to cheer myself up, I have spent a large chunk of this morning looking at fixture lists, logistics and “excuses” for Management.
That and swearing under my breath at Uefa.
Sounds like a very effective use of your time Dr Z 🙂
tabs
Shrek was only transferred in just for tonight I will be getting rid off him after the game 🙂
Glad we’re going there with Song and Gervinho, as Clive mentioned above Jack will back as well. All of the sudden this looks a lot better than yesterday.
Uefa ban has been blown out of proportion and I hope this won’t impact the team. Bunch of Hansens MK2
ATG – isn’t that fantasy financial doping?
Cusop @ 200
I wish you all the best against the Mancs tonight,hopefully you can pull off a fucking miracle.
Most of the time i want to pour petrol over your bollocks and set light to them,but if you stuff the Mancs before we play ’em,then the Orange juice is on me.
cheers
The Sweeper
Arthur , fair enough , given it’s just the one game and it is against the Spuds , I’ll forgive you 🙂
If Jack can make it back that is a big big plus . Won’t stop the nerves being at level 10 for the game though . A midfield of Jack , Song and Frimpers should be enough to see us home … please God
Cant make up my mind if I want the Spuds to snaffle a point tonight .
Clive @211 – heh , that’s the Clive we all know and love . An orange juice (freshly squeezed) awaits Sir
tabs 202, should I have put a copyright on the penalty story in 194? 😉
Have another drink.
Camberwell 205, haha, nice one!
Tabs
I knew you’d like that one.
I’m popping down to the SU for lunch with the lovely C today,she misses me greatly now i have departed,
She told me she will be wearing her ‘ French Knickers ‘,
Not sure of the difference between French and English Knickers myself,but i guess I’ll find out shortly.
Not sure what we are having for lunch either,C’s shift doesn’t start till
5pm today,so it could be a long one.
I will pop back in to the drinks later on.
Cheers
The Sweeper
Hey Ollie , sorry about that . 🙂 great minds think alike and all that . It also has to be said that rum/whisky sodden minds seldom differ 🙂
Clive @215 🙂 my goodness , are there no lengths you wouldn’t go to for the lovely Cecilia . Make sure you avoid the Degenerates , and don’t end up on another forced stay .
I think Ollie’s the expert on french knickers 🙂
Afternoon all,
Dont often comment here, but read every one of your articles ‘Holic. Thanks for keeping it sane in the media shitstorm that engulfs our beloved club.
I, for one, feel quietly confident this year, even if the meeja try to tell us how fucked we are. An attacking midfielder is the only pressing need imo, and i hope Wenger gets one in in time for the mancs next week. Not sure who is ‘available’ or of the ‘super quality’ we need, but sure le Boss does…
I am really hoping that the complacency that was apparent last year will be replaced by enthusiasm and exuberance of youth from the likes of the Frimp, Ox, Ryo, Jenk… and of course Chezzer, Jack, Rambo etc.
Personally, I dont really give a monkeys whether we win anything, as long as we give it a damned good go, and we get to see the beauty of some of the best 17-20 yr olds on the planet ply their trade at the highest level, wearing Red & White.
Thanks people, drinks a plenty all round!
Catalan – ok, will give it a go. Never done one before, and everyone has been talking about team changes/transfers etc. etc . .
I’m back to work now until 8.45pm – see what I mean ?
Cheers anyway 😉
And to you Tabs 😉
Trev, basically, if you finish below me in the table, you’re totally useless. There is no other way.
This fantasy football is causing a conflict of interest. Am thinking of transferring RVP ffs. Should have known he’s a slow starter. Cannot bring myself to put rooney in though, my laptop might get a virus, or go bald..
Trev – Pick a team, mostly ignore it, check the league occasionally, abuse the other managers. Simples!
And don’t worry – the GT Rollers are here to make you all feel better about your own teams!
Geo @217 – a drink for you, most definitely. A young exuberant Rioja, perhaps?
Haha! Thanks Catalan, sounds good to me! 🙂
Feels like a war’s going on eh? Shots fired at the Arsenal from all sides…join me in some vodka shots as I toast to us getting through a crucial week intact….
*smiles at the thought of Spurs getting smashed tonight*
Noel
Just for tonight though I shall be trasfering him out as soon as they give those silly LWC’s a proper beating 😀
Hilarious biblical quote from the 7amkickoff blog: Then Wenger said to his disciples, “Truly I tell you, a rich man can buy the Premier League but cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to make a club like Chelsea or Manchester City into a club with history.”
Geo @217 – Nice post Sir . Allow me to top your glass up .
Canons @223 – Wise words , vodka-shot me up ! How are the pics coming along ?
Noel@220 – Don’t do it mate , VP’ll come good , no worries . Bring Shrek in , and a laptop virus will be the least of your worries . You’ll spend all your time patrolling the local OAP retirement home making sure your players aren’t abusing their leisure time , instead of on the training pitch where you belong .
tabs, the drawings are coming along but slowly…hoping to take my mind off Arsenal long enough to get it done….wait a minute 🙂
Heh 🙂
we seem to anoint anyone who has a half decent game as a “great” player. frimpong did well for 30 mins or so but his attitude stank. he was looking for trouble from the off – his tackle just before the first booking was a booking in itself and as others have said his second yellow should have been a straight red. he has promise, if he realises its not just about him.
there have others anointed too soon – ramsey, theo, AA. we can add CJ and miquel to the list i suspect.
CoR@225,
It may be too difficult for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, but my llamas are master contortionists 😀
@ i don’t know…
Fella, you haven’t known much for quite a long time. You are also daft to this bar’s disposition. I’ve had about enough of the doommerchants and BBB-ultras. It’s time for you and your band of anti-merry apostles to find your entertainment elsewhere.
This bar is for intellectual adults only…
Cheers.
Barca must be destroyed.
idka, I beg to differ on Frimpong. He was one of the bright sparks of the game, showing the kind of attitude we missed at the end of last season. Besides, he left the pitch to a standing ovation after the red card.
Whew, just above relegation-zone. 😉
Don’t look now, but the Marauders are coming…
Big Ears : Let’s go straight over to Craven Cottaging , home of The Speedo Massive , where I believe John Motson has Wolfgang Smallballs , exuberant young manager of The Speedo Massive with him . John ….
Mottie : Thank you Big Ears . Yes indeed , Wolfgang Smallballs , talk of the Fantasy League , has joined me .
Wolfie : Good Afternoon .
Mottie : Now then Wolfie , may I call you Wolfie … ?
Wolfie : Err .. no .
Mottie : Oh right , well Wolfgang , a fabulous start to the season , you must be very pleased ?
Wolfie : Overall , I am very pleased . I am convinced that this young side , has shown great desire and mental strength , and will achieve great things .
Mottie : More to come , Wolfgang ?
Wolfie : Yes of course . It is part of my job to make sure that everyone comes . I very much look forward to this team reaching its climax .
Mottie : Err right . Have you been surprised at how quickly this side has come together ?
Wolfie : No , no … not at all . My training methods are all based on sychronicity . At the end of the day , everybody must go home satisfied , it is part of my philosophy .
Mottie : So sitting in third , behind The Numpties and Diab’holical . They both use Rooney , are you concerned they will widen the gap tonight ?
Wolfie : Not at all . Of course the tighter the gap , the better I like it , but I cannot control what others do . I know that there is fantasy doping going on , but I concentrate on what we do . We observe both the spirit and the letter of the law . I am convinced that in the long run my philosophy of no mancs , no chavs , no spuds and no mugsmashers will be proved correct . Our supporters should be very proud of what we do .
Mottie : Yes , your supporters , the self -proclaimed Speedo Ladyboy Massive , have created quite a stir . This method of celebrating a goal by frenzied … um … Hardinso , is causing problems up and down the country .
Wolfie : I didn’t seen it .
Mottie : Well , you’re certainly a revolutionary coach , your training gear attests to that . I think that this is the first time I have interviewed a manager who wears Speedoes and Jimmy Choos .
Wolfie : It is non-negotiable . Given this is my first interview , I had hoped to be wearing a Christian Dior off-the-shoulder number , but my directors would not provide me with the funds . What do Directors know about fashion ?
Mottie : Well I’m still a sheepskin coat man .
Wolfie : Quite .
Mottie : Confident for the rest of the season ?
Wolfie : Completely . My team is based on Arse boys . They have had a slow start , but I have no doubts that once these boys start bending over backwards for the good of the team , the only way is up .
Mottie : Any faults with the side at the moment ?
Wolfie : We are slightly unbalanced , too many players in the hole , and so i may look for a player who is able to absorb a physical assault .
Mottie : And finally , Wolfgang , your greatest pleasure in the job .
Wolfie : Bringing players off throughout the game .
Mottie : Thank you Wolfgang .
Wolfie : Thank you .
Mottie : Back to you in the studio , Big Ears . Ok , Wolfgang , we’re off air . Love the dress . Can I take you out for Dinner ?
Wolfie : No . Where’s that nice Barry Davies ?
whoops , seems to have got posted twice , sorry about that 😳
Brilliant tabs, looking forward to a long season of controversial attire and underhand tactics..Dickie Davis more apt tho 🙂
Ha yes indeed Noel , I missed a trick there , or even Frank Bough come to think of it .
TaBs,
Outstanding! The barkeep may need to compile a transcript of the Behind the Arse and Big-Eared Crips Lover series.
I almost laughed too loudly in my office (I work in a very conservative outfit – no pun intended Wolfie)
Barca must be destroyed.
“I didn’t see it.” 😀
Priceless!
Barca must be destroyed.
Cheers Lonestar 🙂
Hello holics
I hear Jack could be back for Udinese
If it’s true, that’s great news 🙂
What’s this? 8ball sitting on top of the league with Shrek and Terry in his team?
Financial doping indeed 😉
Hey LG, what’s this “Barca must be destroyed” ?
Harsha –
I’m an old student of classical history. I have adopted the role of the distinguished Roman Senator Cato the Elder who would end all his speeches in the Senate, regardless of the topic, with the line “Carthago delinda est.”
Loosely translated, it meant “Cathage [Early Rome’s arch rival] must be (or is) destroyed”.
I just substituted Barca for Carthage. The sentiment holds true either way.
UTA
Barca must be destroyed.
Lonestar , have you read the novels of Robert Harris – Imperium and Lustrum – all about Cato . Very good stuff .
Heh 🙂
I watched Game of Thrones – Brilliant show!
Now, I plan to buy the second book in the series
Obviously a quote from brigit jones diary…
joshua
getting an ovation after being sent off is hardly the mark of a great player. often happens as some sort of act of defiance by a home crowd. i am not saying he wasnt trying but that the sending off was always coming. his reaction on first booking was ridiculous for a 19 year old without any achievement to his name. this attitude seems common among our younger players – th14 is at the top of that list, followed by nb52 and a (not so) strong supporting cast
Nice one, tabs.
Lonestar, I think the Landlord was considering adding a section on the website for Behind The Arse and such things.
Take a draw on TABS’ pipe, Wolfie – you’ve earned it!
tabs @ 233 – the Guvnor is right – you are absolutely barking.
Quality stuff – don’t get a day job 😉
Don’t call him Wolfie, Dr C.
Cheers boys – Barking ? it’s a badge of honour 🙂
TaBS – Sorry for the delay. Unfortunately, I haven’t read either of those books, but they sound very interesting. Are they some sort of historical fictionalization?
Ollie – we should do whatever we can to get ‘Hols to create such a section and preserve the writings heretofore created. TaBS’ stuff is comedy gold and must be maintained for our posterity.
At the risk of encouraging the windowlickers, IDKA, I must ask why do you persist in this line of “discourse”? At the very least, for this moment, it most be clear that we (the even-handed regulars) must agree to disagree?
I think many of us will agree that blame should go where it is warranted. I certainly have made clear my dissatisfaction with Wenger’s and the Board’s performance of their obligations to this club. However, what I will vehemently disagree with you on is your cavalier criticism of of youngest players who, at least this weekend, brought a level of committment to the team that I have been dying to see.
If you can’t see the positives in the youngsters’ performances, then I respectfully suggest you go and “support” some other team. it is clear that for whatever reason, this is going to be AFC’s strategy for competing in the future footbal landscape. (Perhaps you should take a listen at Amy Lawence on last week’s Arsecast?) Hate on the leadership, not the young guns.
Barca must be destroyed.
TaBS – as a history man, I am sure you get the irony that the ruling family in Carthage was the Barcid clan (Hamilcar, Hannibal, Hanno, Hasdrubal, and Mego Barca).
So, in calling for Barca’s destruction, I think Cato would approve! 😉
You know what, I have been thinking and stewing, mulling and brewing…I got a good “cyberthrashing” for a drink I “drank” on the last post and it has been rolling around like the ball in a roulette wheel, when it is rolling, not when it has stopped, obviously!
Firstly, I want to say to all those who ripped me a new one for not being able to see the game on Saturday, I live in Peru and it is a bit of a trek. That aside, I have just moved to a totally different part of the country and do not yet have any internet (aside from this very small internet cafe with a 500kbps connection) or tv access. I did have a season ticket for longer than a lot of current fans have been fans for though and I would guess that I have been to more matches than the average fan will sit and watch on television. Whilst I am well aware that I do not have to wave my “stripes” at anybody, especially not in Cyberspace, I have earned them fair and square and I am proud of them.
Secondly I want to say that I appreciate that my rant on the previous blog post was rather long, really rather long indeed, but I think that was probably a result of the frustration of where we are right now, the difficulties in “verbalising” that kind of frustration and certainly NOT a reason to get flamed by “fellow” supporters.
Thirdly, and finally for the “keep it short(er)” brigade, just been reading over at Arseblog and looky what I stumbled upon…
“You look at what we had out there yesterday, and even if you count on the players we had missing we need four or five players before this transfer window closes. A left back, at least one central defender, at least one central-midfielder, certainly another striker and A N Other”
I basically said the exact same thing, albeit with about 3000 words more, and got absolutely MASSACRED for it!
So, let me try again in a more “to the point manner”…
We are not even standing still, we are sprinting backwards. Weakest Arsenal side I can remember in a competitive game and even if those who are injured and suspended return, (Gibbs, Djourou, Rosicky, Kos, Wilshere and Song in the main) half of them (the first three of the six) are ridiculously injury prone and Song spends far too much time picking up cards (1Y, 1R so far this season in 1 game, 9Y,1R last season in 42 games, 2009/2010 – 13Y, 0R in 39) given as he is to tearing around the entire pitch searching for somebody to kick, trip, push, argue with or stamp on!
Be honest, how many times last season were we all hearts in mouths after he got his first card, simply waiting for him to get a second…Ok, he doesn’t actually get that many second cards, mainly due to Wenger using a substitution and changing the entire shape of the side to accomodate it, but the whole thing just stinks of simple stupidity. At least Vieira had the class to get a straight red and be done with it!!! Ok, bad example, worse joke!
Put simply, I genuinely believe that we are in BIG TROUBLE and the way the clubs support has been cleverly divided during the Dein-Wenger era into AKB’s and AKN’s, there isn’t even much in the way of decent dissent going on for fear of the backlash from “the other side”.
Wow, we have “sides”…Shocking stuff that, in reality, NEVER would have been accepted let alone dreamed up prior to “The Invincibles”.
Yes, we have had a few boos and “spend f***ing some moneys” but what do you think United fans would be doing right now in the same scenario?
Protesting…?
Tearing up season tickets…?
Or fighting amongst themselves?
The problems are so crystal clear that I find it hard to actually see what we are fighting about!
Hhmmm…I think that all comes across a little more clearly and hopefully the weapons of mass destruction won’t get drawn this time.
All that aside, fingers crossed for what promises to be a VERY difficult game against Udinese. Time for EVERYBODY to step up and make sure that we ae not looking at the Europa League and, worse, a possible meeting with those Spuddy bastards from down the road!
YOU KNOW UEFA WOULD MAKE THAT HAPPEN!
heh, good spot Lonestar.
So now Hannibal and Mr T (aka Frimpong) will be fighting each other though.
ManU are ripping Tottenham to shreds. 2-0 now and it should have been five or six. But that hasn’t stopped De Gea from almost gifting Tottenham a goal, of course. He’s rubbish on crosses, too bad we can’t play a crossing game even if our lives depended on it.
Always wondered that Lars, we put so much emphasis on getting the ball to the wings but not in getting men into the box, maybe over cautious midfield the last couple of years.
Ollie –
Heh. As much as I love the young Frimmer, I have no doubt that Hannibal would dispatch him to the afterlife post haste.
Too bad we couldn’t have a time-machine, caged death match featuring Hannibal vs. Sir Red-Nose, the oil sheiks, ‘arry Redknapp, the UEFA and FA leadership, all current premiership referrees, Gazprom FC ownership, Xavi (and all the other disrespectful members of Barca – you know who you are), and all Arsenal “fans”.
That would make life soooo much more enjoyable.
Barca must be destroyed.
That is all.
Winstons, that was a much more balanced and articulated post. Cheers for that, have a pint on my tab!
I’m sure a reminder isn’t needed here, but just in case. people who come and argue something that you don’t agree with, but respectfully, are to be encouraged.
I only have a problem with people who are abusive to anybody connected with Arsenal, including players, staff, and supporters of the club, and those who sometimes like to see how far they can push things.
I’ll get rid of those who don’t follow those guidelines. All others who want to engage in respectful debate are welcome.
Cheers.
Winstons,
Wow, we have “sides”…Shocking stuff that, in reality, NEVER would have been accepted let alone dreamed up prior to “The Invincibles”.
This might convince you it did?
http://goonerholic.com/?p=1446
Even predates 1984 😉
‘Holic,
I’d still like to see that caged death match… har har :devil:
Did you get my email?
That should have been 👿
Damned smileys…
Barca must be destroyed.
Lonestar @253 – yes , they are factionalisations . The author makes it clear where he departs from acknowledged fact , and goes off on a flight of fancy of his own . From memory , they are based on the diaries of Cato’s man servant / clerk whose name now escapes me .
Robert Harris started off as a political journo and now writes these factoid novels .
I was drawn to the novels as the young Cato and I share the same profession , but my knowledge of ancient Rome is not extensive so I’m afraid your reference @254 was rather lost on me , but thanks for the info 🙂
I would recommend both books – they’re a good read – not at all as dry as might be imagined .
Ah, for the days when your posts only drew 18 drinks, eh guv’nor? 😉
BMD (Barca must be destroyed).
Cheers Lars! Yet again serving up my drinks!
‘Holic, to be fair, I am all for a good “mass-debate (ooo-er missus!)” but there were a couple of really quite low blows that I felt were not needed. For that reason though, I thought it best to take another pop and try to get things on a more even keel again. I hope that has been achieved.
As for being accused of slating the youngsters, I did no such thing, I was simply pointing out that I believe that they are not good enough to be first names on the team sheet (yet in some cases) but they are going to get a lot of gametime this season as the majority of the players they stepped in for, step out a LOT!
Anyway, take care all…Off to deepest darkest Peru to search for Paddington until Wednesday when, I am PROMISED, I will be watching a stream on my spanky new 3Mb internet connection!!
Believe it or not, been waiting a long time for this connection as it is a special order here! No other 3Mb connection for miles, literally!
LG, yes I did. Have forwarded. Cheers 😉
The bald facts show how unlucky we were. 0-0 until the sending-off, their first goal (an own goal) was patently offside, and the two enforced subs through injury severely limited our options. That said, the introduction of Bendtner was idiotic. Did Arsene really think he would make a difference, when the better option IMO would have been to send on Chamberpot. Who knows what he might have done. Can a football club be born under a bad sign!
We`ve all been scouring the papers and the internet for transfer news, and it appears that we are trying to set up some deals, (Hazard, M`vila et al), but these will stand or fall depending on Wednesday`s result. We all know that faliure to qualify for the CL group stage and we can kiss goodbye to any signings to stir the blood. It could even be the usual tenterhooks on the final day with Arsenal trying to tie up a late, late deal or two at the eleventh hour without success. “We tried but what can you do if they say no?”
Nevertheless it would be stupid to sack the manager now. Perhaps if there was a debate as to who the new man would be, or who we could get, we would realise that such a course could be disasterous. Do we really want Pat rice as caretaker? Shades of `coneman`. Far better to let Arsene get on with it for this season, then sack him (if we want) if we finish outside the top 4.
Good link there ‘Holic. Remember reading that at the time and thinking that I barely remembered half of it!!!
I think that the current situation is different in that we are talking about a much larger number and a much broader divide. Back then we weren’t all hooked up on the web and, well, now that we are, the divisions stretch much further than the halfway line at Arsenal Stadium.
I think that the reactions are much more vitriolic too. If you support Arsene you are some kind of sheep or a lunatic. If you don’t then you are just a reactionary toy out of the pram ejection system and you should just f**k off and support the Spuds.
I guess that what I am saying is that the division has never been quite so black and white with so very little grey area for real debate.
Anyway, thanks for the link and for the drink!
Drinks for everybody who thinks that Arsene has lost the plot
AND that we are a shoe-in for the Champions League on my tab…
…all the rest Lonestar is going to pay for!!!!!
😉
“I think that the reactions are much more vitriolic too. If you support Arsene you are some kind of sheep or a lunatic. If you don’t then you are just a reactionary toy out of the pram ejection system and you should just f**k off and support the Spuds.”
…and OBVIOUSLY, we should not belong to EITHER camp but be free to think that some things are being done well and others badly, which is clear when you see how threadbare and ever less-experienced the squad is but how beautiful the stadium and the bank statement are!
Just thought I better get that added before inviting an internet shoeing from BOTH sides!!!!
Top man, ‘Holic! Thanks.
Winston, you got it , my man. Actually, we might need to talk. Since you are in Peru, the replenishment of my llama stock for the HT mk II may need your facilitation.
BMD.
Winston, where you been all close season? Peru? Poor excuse 😉
There have been a few planks on here over the summer and that was probably part of the reason that you were “jumped on” in the last set of drinks.
I know from your postings last season alone however that you are not one of those planks and therefore please have a drink of your choice on my tab, and as many to follow, paid for by our very rich Viking friend.
Your post also got me wondering what had happened to a few of our other regular drinkers from last season….
Stone Roses? Mark the Spark? Glennw? Let’s be having you – last few seats available on the Happy Train as it approaches Northern Italy.
Up the Arse!
A great article that you linked to Holic – outstanding .
Winstons myth – I missed your post first time around given that it was in the aftermath of the game , but given the intelligence of your post above , I was intrigued and went and took a peek .
I have to say I do think the assertion that you got “flayed” a little exaggerated . I don’t think that anyone doubted your gooner credentials , merely that it was perhaps unwise to go into print with some fairly strong views when you hadn’t managed to see the game , even though there were obviously good reasons as to why you hadn’t done so .
As regards the current divide in the fan base , Holic explains that far better than I ever could .
There has been throughout the summer a sense of ” what is going on ” by pretty much everybody here . And isn’t that the point ? Unless you’re in the know , and none of us are , we can only speculate . We will of course all have an individual take on what is going on and we are all entitled to that .
There is little doubt in my mind though that it is sites such as Le Grove who are the cause of much or all of the divisiveness . One only has to look at their post today where opinion is presented as fact . There is an agenda which goes far beyond a wish to see Arsenal do well , and their abuse of the manager is often beyond anything a Spud would come up with , and which if published anywhere other than on the internet would be the subject of huge libel claims .
With Arsenal and Arsene under such sustained attack is it any wonder that vast majority of the support who perhaps recognise the wider reasons for the current stasis afflicting the club , become hugely defensive about a Club we all profess to love ?
Anyway , a drink of your choice on me .
Cousin Op? Are you still stalking us?
21 shots on target. Usually that’s the kind of stat that happens in cup games against league 2 teams. You mentioned the stench of fear the other day but the stench around your team is that of putrefying garbage… Sack Twitchy, Roy to the rescue!
My word. The girl presenting SSN right now. Where has she been all of my life? I’m coming over all Terry Thomas.
Calm down, Wolfgang.
@Winston’s Myth: Re: Arseblogger and his recent tantrums.
Have you noticed who he mentioned we should get at LB yesterday? Baines.
Do you remember who he was championing all summer in the same position? Enrique.
What happened on Saturday? Sagna in an unusual position was miles better than Enrique. Hell, even our kid RB was better than Enrique.
I don’t know him, nor you, nor the myriad of others who’ve seen the light and claim they have *the solution*. But I’m ready to bet my life savings none of them know anything firsthand about managing a football club. I understand him and you are not happy and you’re totally entitled to your feelings. But so are we to dismiss your claims.
As for the fairweather fans foaming at the mouth, if our lull is to subside it won’t be long before they jump ship. Finally!
Get your pipe out Dr C – always a relaxer I find 🙂
TABS.
The GT is open, as I eagerly await the masses of points rolling in from tonight’s game! 🙂
I, too, appreciate a myriad of historical novels – I can kid myself that I am “learning” whilst reading about Boy’s Own swords and shields.
PS – no point getting the pipe out – wife 120km south with the family for the week. All the more time for drinking…..
Two quick things.
First, Winston’s myth I believe I gave you a dig on Saturday’s drinks and for that I apologise. When the knives are out I can’t help but defend the gaffer and those out on the pitch in red and White but I can see the value in some of what you’re saying.
You’re totally right that you shouldn’t be required to show your stripes to hold an opinion, but one of the great frustrations of the Internet is that it’s impossible to tell the seasoned fan from the gobby sofa jockey johnny come lately. For what it’s worth I’m sure you’re more the former than the latter. Whatever you’re drinking’s on me.
Secondly, CG – would you believe I actually know the SSN girl you’re referring to very well (although I’ve not seen her in a bit)? Lovely as she is, she’s a Chelsea fan, which is an irredeemable blemish in my eyes!
You lucky boy, CG. Spend the time wisely. Or not 😉
BMD.
N7 @ 281. I am speechless. You are a lucky man. Of course the Chelski blemish is a problem, but….. if I can make exceptions for Barca>>!!
Lonestar – I have a few plans! 😉
Tabs – where do you get the time ? More excellent stuff in the Big Ears thing. 😉
‘i dont know anymore’ reckons Frimpong desreved a yellow card for his tackle.
God knows what Wolfgang deserves for his then. 😉
CG – the Catalan one, this going to get very confusing, could one of you please move to somewhere not beginning with ‘C’ ?
“coming all over Terry Thomes” – I say!!
Trev – double heh 🙂
Funny but the more poor old Arsene gets bashed from all sides, the more defensive I’m getting, despite all his faults and frustrations.
As various members of the press (yes, ok) discuss the possibility of him leaving or being removed, you really wonder who else could begin to do things on the scale that he has achieved since 1996.
As he said at the weekend – “you can question my decisions, but you cannot question my loyalty”.
I’m really liking the stubborn old bugger all over again.
Apologies if this is old news – I get on here so late these days – but a French chap I know heard on French radio that Samir Nasri will not leave.
Laurent Blanc has apparantly told him that if he is sitting on Citeh’s bench, he will not play for the national team.
This seems to have kicked old Na Na Na Na Na’s brain back into gear and it is likely he will sign a new deal.
The same guy told me about three months ago that Arsenal were interested in Yann M’Vila, apparantly a genuine PV4 type. Stories are now beginning to surface. I’ve not seen him play for a single minute, but I’m tols that NOBODY goes past this guy.
You heard it here first (?) folks.
* waits to look a complete prat by tomorrow evening *
Rightly or wrongly Trev , I have never left the firmly in Arsene’s camp .
Don’t know whether you caught it , but the “Lars link” made an awful lot of sense to me .
To my mind , a great manager does not suddenly become a poor manager , unless alcohol gets in the way , a la Cloughie .
I did read it Tabs and thought exactly the same.
If he stood on the sidelines unmoved by what happens on the pitch, you could understand the criticism. But his pain at failure is so obvious, it has to be more than his own stubbornness that stops him from fixing such obvious problems.
Right, I’ll try to have a look in tomorrow lunchtime, when we may be able to confirm the signing of our latest Spanish target – Nojuan 😉
It’s goodnight from him . . . .
Totally agreed Trev . Its all speculation , but its an explanation which makes the most sense to me .
As regards Nasri , not old news , though there were reports from France at the weekend that the deal had fallen through . I guess we’ll find out on wednesday . If he plays , I think the likelihood is that he will stay .
As regards M’vila , there were reports today saying that his club were adamant he was going nowhere . Time will tell I guess .
and its goodnight from me 🙂
matt
if you really think that BS or CJ were better than enrique then there is a deeper problem that needs analysing. i am all for championing our own players but, please. some perspective.
CJ is an adequate defender. all things considered (first game ex div 1 etc) he did all but never got forward. i think BS is so over rated its laughable. he bombs forward but seems incapable of delivering anything worthwhile
for those of you that bang on about how many “kids” we had, i hoped you watched the match tonight. av age 22. back 4 av age 21. and they looked like they had played for 5 years together. being young doesn’t have to be an excuse for “not quite good enough – next year”. its a shame that AW doesn’t get on with ferguson or he could pick his brains how he does it time and time again. a year ago the view as “too old, problems coming”. then he fields a team where only 3 would have been first choice last year and they look fantastic. both the 2nd choice centre backs look as good as anything we have with exception of TV. jones will be another booby moore imo
In fairness, idka, they were playing Spurs. And spurs are, well, spurs.
IDKA: the reminder of perspective coming from you is bit of a joke considering you spend all your time here bashing our players in every one of your posts while drooling on other teams, cue your 2 posts from today.
@i dont know anymore, sagna and tv alongside two debutants performed admirably and i think many would agree above a level we thought they would. Sagna is a top notch full back, regular in the pfa Team of the year, who in trying enough circumstances switched wings to mark downing et al out of it for the majority of the game. In relation to Jenkinson, he did in fact venture forward but was always going to be cagey seeing as it was his debut-in fact his simplicity was refreshing considering some of the simple mistakes created from overplaying the ball last year. Im all for perspective when it comes to praise but please try some yourself before trying to cut down other peoples opinions, especially those of which most of us here are in agreement with. As it is i may not agree with what you say but an opinion will always be received here..goodnight 🙂
Oh and a round for all, $amir’s buying!
I love Arsene Wenger.
Please Arsene, make me build a statue for Tabs.
Really no sense in trying to argue w/ someone who cannot see the flaws in their own selves. At this point in the season it’s about as redundant and mundane as speaking about politics or religion. The boys tried we know and trust that in due time on the training ground and playing in games is where they will gel and come together as a squad.
On another note lukaku, modric, mata, Torres, drogba, anelka, etc etc
Wright Phillips( only worth noting due to his namesake) aguero, dzeko, balloteli, Barry, Tevez, silva so on and so forth…. Why other than money do these players continue to agree to terms w/ these clubs? If Sami wants to go it’s clear why but, who what when where and why will they play? Trophies is a likely excuse but we were in for 4 trophies last season only to slip from these same people’s fingers who want to go for the glory. It really is a disgusting thought to think that any sense of loyalty or respect has left the clud when they have been shown nothing but by Arsene himself. I for one can not wait for the day that jack or frimpong or Ramsey score a cracker on Sunday and during their celebration in the pouring down rain they run the length of the pitch to the supporters grab hold o that dear patch that they are privellaged to wear and lay a big fat juicy kiss on it! Onwards and upwards fellow holics and as long as the bar is open may I have a cold beer please?
The Guardian is reporting the Nasri is not in the squad list for Weds. game vs. Udinese so his move will not affected. Any truth or is the Arsenal bashing/piling-on in full effect?
Tabs – 🙁
http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/107165.html
@300, I agree with the sentiments but I don’t know if I can bear to see another player kiss the badge and leave the club :S
I’d rather they jump into the crowd and hug the supporters!
Have a Carib beer with me 😀
Glad to share a beer COR still only 1115 pm here in california. But it makes a great mental picture doesn’t it? Agree with your unwillingness to see someone pose as a gunner but I believe we have some true GUNNERS playing on that pitch and we shall reap the benefits soon enough.
YDWTBH…L (hard to abbreviate your name man!), It’s 3:38pm here in Osaka….I always miss the good chats by hours! Still good fun reading them when I’m supposed to be productive.
I agree we have some keepers/stayers in the squad which is why I’ve always championed academy promotions. I’d prefer hungry, talented academy graduates over bored, talented imports anyday.
Do you think there’s any truth to the Hazard, MVilla rumours spreading around?
Jeeez…… The GT Rollers pick 3 Mancs, selling their soul for a bit of success, and how many points do they get??? 1 (one).
Retribution.
The Manager has to go. Or he has to work out what you get points for in this game!
I think hazard will be here Thursday ( assuming we qualify) m’villa not sure the clubs said no way, from my understanding. I for one would love to see our current squad give united a run for their money but, we do need some serious help and soon.
8 ball, is that you?
could be worse. i regularly praise our players but as a fan dating back to 1968 i cannot stand to see so many overrated prima donnas play for my (well, our) team. there is no glory, or indeed sense in just repeating the sam eold things – next year we will be great, what potential etc etc. an dthe latest one “we were in line for 4 trophies”. in what sense were we in line ? we were in top 2 of league because chelsea had fallen apart, we were drawn against barca in CL and unite din cup, away, both games we would struggle in without disintegrating as we did at wembley. yes, we were still IN 4 competitions but at that stage of the season one of big 4 often is.
fact is that we have got 13 out of 42 points ≈ since wembley that is shocking. i suspect the relegated clubs were close to that. we have won 4 out of 18, and one was against orient. and before anyone says another was against united so that “proves we are a good team” wolves also beat united at home over that period. there is something seriously wrong here and jerking off on a8 year olds that are “better that we thought they would be” hides the real issue. i said last january that cesc and nasri would go if we didn’t win something and was shouted down. the fact that we are in this position is no surprise to me, but ia m surprised wenger has done nothing about it with 7 days left in transfer window.
finally, i enjoy good football. i love the gunners, more and for longer than many on this site but that doesn’t mean i can’t admire what i see elsewhere. i thought united were v v good last night, with 8 new players from last year. whoever said they were “only playing spurs”, well we were only playing liverpool, a side that finished below spurs last year.if united repeat this on sunday some may be saying “they were only playing arsenaL”. that is what makes me really sad.
Zico,
noticed your missing persons poster @273. I’ve been here all along sitting in the corner supping my Guinness
@300: Idka, Are you really a fan for that long? Let me applaud you and grant you permission to moan unabatedly about the club since you remember the Bertie Mee days and we’ve all just started.
Our form after the CL final was shocking, yes. We’ve known for a while that two of our best players wanted to leave, yes. But do you think that our manager wanted it to get to this point? Do you know what’s really happening behind closed doors at the Emirates? And why shouldn’t we promote our English youngsters from the academy and be happy when they perform well? Should we pay 4 times as much for other English youth like Scum United did?
We all want the best for the club but what’s the point of comparing us to or envying Scum United anyway? Nothing they have will ever impress me. Pack of vermin they are…
Sorry that should be 309: I don’t know anymore…
Did you we buy anyone yet?
Instead of doing any work, I seem to be spending most of my time reviewing the web, searching for news about signings that look like they’re not arriving, or locating any snippet of positive news about the Arse. And I’ve been doing this for weeks.
I read this blog because of your fantastic outlook ‘holic and that of most the other contributors here…
It’s starting to dawn on me however that this really could be a pretty bad season for us. It seems to me that we’re not the team that we were a year ago and that means we’re a much less attractive option to players that could make any meaningful difference to our season. And as such, I have doubts that we’ll make any impressive (really, impressive) signings these next few days.
And if we fail tomorrow, I’m not sure we’ll be able to claw much back this season (we only need to look at the Carling Cup fiasco to see what happens when our heads drop). Our season over before its even begun?
Sorry for being so negative — I rarely am when it comes to Arsenal — but, like the rest of you, I’m patiently waiting for some good news…
There`s a strong case for including Nasri in the squad for tomorrows game. If we reach the latter stages needing to score, I can`t see why he shouldn`t come on, when going out will mean the loss of £25m+ anyway. If he then scores or creates a goal that saves our bacon it will have been worth it. Anyway, we shouldn`t be letting those Manc c**ts give us ultimatims. If they really want him, given their stated priority for this season is the title and the CL a bonus, they will still cough up.
@ 314Matt (2)
You seem like you need some cheering up fellow Holic, it’s ceratinly tough times ahead but we must get behind our team.
I feel your pain myself, this is the weakest team we have had for a long time I reckon. I sincerely hope Arsene will make two sigings befoe the transfer window will slam shut next week.
Chin up Matt a drink of your choice on my tab please barman
I really hope Nasri plays tomorrow no questions asked, it’s a must win gam. We forget if we fail there’s going to be no Champions League footy therefore no new signings.
Have not opened Newsnow for over a month and am happier getting info from blogs like this as its less skewed. I know we need theo’s pace tomorrow on the counter but would love to see oxo get a go, hopefully he will give theo some much needed competition. Maybe after tomorrows result we will be able to confirm signings one way or another. If we dont then regardless this young team deserves full support, a lot of pressure on young shoulders and a lot less should be expected of them this season. A cup and 3rd place would be ideal..but if not then fuck it at least you know this lot will try their hearts out. Fair play to anyone heading off to Italy for the match, in this climate it is a huge sacrifice on spending and I really hope it pays off. Could be a famous night. COYR..
Lonestar @254 – those books I was banging on about to you , are of course about Cicero the Lawyer , and not Cato , who was the subject of your original drink . Apologies . I am a complete moron 😳
Snir@302 – yes , i saw that . Oh well , time to send my crystal balls back to the shop – clearly faulty 🙁
Dr C @306 – when do you expect the dreaded vote of confidence from your Board ? I don’t think it’s hyperbole to suggest The Rollers are in crisis .
Noel@317 – Big big game to hand a young lad a debut . Think AW will stick with Theo , albeit with a massive exhortation to ” get involved ” .
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/terms-agreed-with-man-city-for-nasri
Terms agreed for Nasri , subject to medical
If it’s all agreed we can play him tomorrow night then, right? 😉
TABS @318.
As mentioned earlier, the “board” are currently looking after the kids down south. If she arranges a press conference for Sunday afternoon then I’ll start packing my cigars and fedora away.
Was watching the Barca game yesterday and AFFELALLALALfY was sitting in the stands watching. Was impressive when he got a chance last year. Not going to get many games now, and reportedly 8m target for Juventus.
We have at least 60m in the bank. Surely worth a bid.
WTF is going on???
I have it on good authority that Arsene The Magician will put a red and white striped rabbit singing Dixie out of the hat within the next 48 hours, Catalan.
Right well at least it’s finalised now, hardly any chance of a last minute change of mind from $amir citing that he could never leave the club who gave him his opportunity in the lurch in their hour of need 🙂 on the positive(ish) side of things we know now what we are dealing with. This could galvanise those who are staying and with those signings that are badly needed things may look worse than they really are. Case in point being we now have players who are committed to the cause who will lay down the marker to those who join. We no longer have the two most disruptive elements in the dressing room(cesc and $amir saga’s, not necessarily the players themselves but what surrounded them) and we now can start our season properly. A thought occurred to me, we normally capitulate after Feb/march in all competitions but what if we are getting that out of the way early this season? Where is my sarcasm Font when i need it 🙂
Ollie @320 – heh:)
Dr C @321 – Ah , understood !! A tough week ahead for the under-fire manager . With the great unwashed screaming at him to get rid of his Mancs , will he bow to public pressure ? Have the Green Tin Rollers faced a more crucial week in their short history ? 🙂
And @322 – no idea , your guess is as good as mine . Phillippe Auclair , who I think is one of the more intelligent commentators on Arsenal , has just confirmed the rift between AW and the Board , on the Radio . The plot thickens …. it is the only explanation which makes any sense to me .
So, all the people who abused Hill-Wood for saying we didn’t want Kroenke’s sort at the club.
Not looking so fucking daft now, is he?
Just a thought.
6 1/2 per cent gold, 50 percent silver and red, family silver sold off. The man is an asset-stripper, mark my words.
I pray I am wrong, but you can’t deny the evidence of your own eyesnow.
So Nasri is gone who else do we have in this paper thin squad that can lead our team forward? Game tomorrow is of such high importance I don’t think Wenger realises this one bit. 70 million in the bank and we still have not signed anyone to replace Cesc or Nasri.
Something tells me Wenger will not spend a dime! The board loves those millions too much to let it go and please the fans just a little. Time will tell I suppose. I just get the feeling this is going to be our worst season ever!
Great tweet from Frimpers – “Money is the Roots of all Evil”.
Wonder who he is talking about?? 🙂
Someone mentioned previously that this could be the darkest part of the night before the new dawn. I wish Dawn would hurry up and arrive….
Week and a half and we still have not signed anyone to replace these guys!
Come on what the F is going?
ATG: I’m pretty sure he realises it. Just whether he is in a position to do anything about it seems to be the question.
Gross mismanagement, for sure. But on who’s part?
The plot thickens indeed. I shall buy some popcorn.
Dr C at 328, looking forward to seeing the crack of Dawn too.
Ollie, I needed that. Drink on me, mate.
And thanks for the tweet share, Catalan. He seems a bit mental, in the wojesch super awesome way! Come to think of it, rvp and tv have their days too- maybe wenger just needs to sign lehman’s kids and we’ll be a proper side to fear!
I knew there was a joke in there somewhere. I was groping around for it like Wolfie in a darkened changing room.
I suppose if we buy few more 17 year old kids you could say that we bought players of high quality and mental strength for the future that is 🙂
80 mil waiting to be spent!
I am now 100% convinced that there is a huge great big fucking rift between Arsene and the board. There just is no other plausible way of interpreting what has been going on this summer. If I am right about this, then Arsene has been royally fucked over by a bunch of cowards who are letting him take all the abuse. Arsene saying “you can’t lose your best players and call yourselves a big club” was clearly directed at the board, and his decision to play Nasri v Liverpool was equally clearly also a message to the powers that be.
Barman, a VERY large beer please.
Catalan, are you saying that you tried to keep abreast of Dawn?
I think wenger is sorting out the type of mental
Best suited to our style. He tried eboue, not effective mental. Vela has that constant creepy half glazed smile, which I think wenger found promising, but the poor guy just chips all day. I think of Bendtner can chew twice as much gum twice as forcefully and a twitch- kind ofike Owen Wilson in bottlerocket- he’ll surely get a new contract. But frims- that guy almost took the head off someone for daring to throw the ball in- that’s proper. Someone needs to unleash theo’s dopleganger and get chamack on some uppers quick.
Shot, come to think of it our medicine cabinet may be the cure for this season! Quick, someone give arsene the keys!!!!
Frimpong is going mental on Twitter:
“@JackWilshere: Good luck to my friend @Nanas08 (mr Nasri) learnt a lot from him. World class player! Will be missed!”Pffffff comeon Jack”
Not sure I really like seeing our players argue in public, but then again maybe a bit more mentalness is what this team needs? But one thing is for sure: Frimpong does not seem to like Nasri pretty much!
I with you on that one Lars, I think I read an article somewhere not such a long time ago about Wenger telling someone that the board just loves the money side of things more than anything else. Perhaps there is truth in that I’m no too sure.
Something also tells me they prefer to buy kids, you can buy them for less, their wages will always be lower and when they turn 24 you can always sell the for 20-30 million quid!
Laughing stock!
Wow, iPhone speech made that come off mental, sorry for the misspells. Or maybe it’s a sign of good things to come!
Frimpong not letting nasri off lightly . Love it
Lars
He needs to chill out as much on Twitter and on the pitch!
311 cannons
who knows what is going behind the scenes. all i know is we fans have been duped. highest ticket prices by a long way and second rate team. sell our two best players. in arsene we trust. my arse
heh, e-mail back from Barça supporting colleague when I said that holidays hasn’t been so good because Cesc looks horrible in that shirt:
‘I don’t know why Cesc comes back to Barcelona….too much players for only 11 “holes” ‘.
I’ll let you interpret this the way you want.
Go On the Pong Man give it to the Greedy Cunt, Maybe Gallas was right For all the Abuse he received he saw Nasri for what he was and in some ways where the club was heading years ago maybe hes the Notrodamus of the 20th century 🙂
Cannot beleive the state the clubs in mind at this point – What a shambles of a summer and serious questions need to be asked of all the movers and shakers at the club its been one farce after another, If 4-5 players are not brought in by next week they deserve everything thats coming and its not going to be pleasant,
To be honest going out the Champions league might not be a bad thing at least wed have a chance of winning the Europa Cup they wouldnt spend the extra revenue anyway 🙂
idka
Wise words, we seem to be going backwards now. I don’t want to be pressing any panic buttons however I’m kind of worried now.
Bye bye Nasri.
You gave us a good six months in a three year stay, became a bit full of yourself and let your agents sell your soul for a truck load of cash. I can’t really blame you for wanting a big wad of dough, I hope it comforts you while you’re kicking your heels on the sidelines at Middle Eastlands.
I think you may find that failure will not be tolatated and if Mancini is moved out you may find yourself on the unwanted pile just like our former cash gready player and his, Hughes bought, fellow mercenarys did.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2029128/Jack-Wilshere-ruled-key-Arsenal-matches.html
I’m sick and tired of Colin Lewin. Our injury record is a fucking disgrace and so are the number of setbacks suffered by our players!
Unacceptable they the summer dealings have been dealt with:
1. They knew 3 months ago that Cesc was going, he leaves just as the season has started.
2. No new signings apart from Gervinho.
3. Ox and Jenkinson are kids I consider them as future prospect but not for this coming season.
4. Nasri goes two weeks into the season. Weakens depleted squad even further, before important CL tie.
Eight days to go and Arsene is saying this:
“It’s not critical (CL tie against Udinese), it’s an opportunity for us to qualify for the group stage of the Champions League and so it’s a good opportunity and we have enough to achieve that.
“We are short in midfield at the moment and that is where we have to strengthen.”
It’s not critical? So what is important for this club? Winning games and winning trophies or just plodding along with rest? Selling world class players and replacing them with teenagers? Being a selling club?
So are we not competitive to challenge for trophies anymore? Because our squad is paper thin?
Sounds like Wenger has lost his faith in the team himself.
Snir
And that is why you need spend some money and buy decent players so Jack can develop even further. I think it would greatly unfair to drop everything on his shoulders.
Great stuff from tabs above, look forward to more interviews during the season.
My teamwill not being conducting any interviews as I’ve put them all in extra training after this weekends shitty showing, 22pts, pfffff.
Jack can develop further but he’s already at a state where he can carry this team if we look at his ability – Surely one of the top 5 midfielders in the country.
I’m thinking AW saw we can’t create and tried to rush Jack back and he suffered a setback. This has a TV feeling written all over it!!
ATG – Don’t mind what AW says to the media. I can’t remember the last time he told them the truth straight up.
Maybe the setback will be a good thing, it’ll force AW to buy. Problem is, everyone we want is ‘staying’ according to their clubs and I’m getting the feeling AW is having a really hard time attracting established players to sign for us ATM…
The more I read, the more I’m begining to believe that there is indeed a rift between boardroom and management. I can not think of any other rational explaination of the events of the previous months.
Some teams would kill for 22 pts, H2H. !!!
IDKA – would you be happier if we had kept Nasri and then let him leave for free in 9 months’ time?
Cesc – we compromised and he left. A lot of internal pressure from him, I am sure. Hence Arsene’s comments about his head not being right.
The others that have departed – well, they were on everyone’s wish list anyway, weren’t they?
HOWEVER… I do agree that it is incredible that no (adequate) replacements have been bought. Shades of mid-eighties before the blosomming of a whole generation that came through together??
He says hopefully / desperately!
Catalan, we do still have the foundation for something really good – but can we keep the players at the club for long enough to build on that?
Snir @ 350.
I’ve never believed anything printed in the Daily Fail.
That article is speculation at best and kind of falls in the water with this bit;
“Arsene Wenger – who had Samir Nasri training ahead of his expected inclusion”
Oh just to add the rumours doing the rounds well over a week ago were that Young Jack wouldnt be back till October at the earliest as its Achilies related rather than Ankle but they didnt want to make the news public at the time because of the departures and how the news would be taken,
H2H – he confirmed Jack’s setback on Arsenal player.
ATG – Just a taste from AW to the media – ‘We will replace Cesc and Nasri internslly’. I’m certain that’s a challenge to the board cause I don’t think that even AW believes that.
The more I think about it the more I have the feeling that Jack’s setback was planned by AW to show the board we have to buy big with star wages, not just transfer fees. If it’s planned AW is a genius. If it’s not planned Colin Lewin is useless.
And by the way, I don’t care how much RvP loves the club I’m sure this summer is making him think….
BtM @ 323 – I’m hoping that your good authority is more than the Tooth Fairy and an early note to Santa 😉
The only explanation for the current state of affairs that makes sense to me is that AW has been hung out to dry by the Board – Kroenke would be best to stay in the US and there will be no hiding place for Gazidis and the rest within a week’s time if we are in the same shape (or worse) in a week’s time.
As for Nasri, I wanted him sold from day one – the only thing I would have done differently is kicked his arse out the door on day one and told Fabregas to honour his contract. Unrealistic? Maybe, but its the way I feel. At the very least we must learn some lesson out of this for future summer transfer windows. But the damage may already have been done.
Don’t fret too much over Nasri – remember when push came to shove, one on one against Bolton with the League still in the balance, he showed his “mental strength”.
We may have to prepare for a season of struggle people – don’t care. Picked up a ticket today for Bolton on 24th at the Grove. Wolfgang, I think it may be my round 🙂
Cusop sneaks into the bar trying to be unnoticed. With 3 arrow in his bum!! Your done for
Cusop, at least we make money on out mercenaries, not waste it on ’em! If the mancs rake us worse then your lot, drink on me next week.
Only 3?
Taking it easy today, are ya?
When Man City have finished paying off our stadium for us maybe they might want to bid a few hundred million for the naming rights!!
Cousin pre-op slow day down the lane? The bowls in the corner and no chewing the furniture! I see wenger will be allowed on the bench for the game tomorrow, and we have been fined 30k for the opening day fiasco. We are the media’s wet dream at the moment! Still great to be a Gooner tho..keep the faith!
Glennw @ 310
Got ya covered. Plenty of guinness on the Happy Train – all we need is a driver 😉
And clear access to the Medicine Cabinet, for now.
I just think we have to stick with what we have right now and crack on!
I know it’s disheartening to hear players who are only half as good as our players going out say we are not comparable to certain other premier league clubs. At the end of the day we are what we are.
I’m hoping we can hang on to what we have for a good few years and at least bring something back.
How ironic would it be if this team won something this year?
Cheer everybody, here is light at the end of the tunnel!
Wise words as per@362 Dr. Z
I know i first mooted it here meself @1 but re the Arsene/board split – yes, it does make sense in a lot of ways, and yes it is attractive ‘cos it may prove Le Prof has not gone completely Stan Kronke (wonky) in the ‘ead – BUUT if there is truth in it – beware Gooners for ’tis a ye olde football adage that in battles of this sort there is only one winner et it is not usually la manager –
However all will be well -imho- if the following conditions – or something close to them – are met in the next 48hrs or so:
La win in the tricky away Itie tie; Arsene and Stan to go out together on the lash to celebrate the win post match – a la Tuesday Club daze – before waking up together in an Udinese hotel room having partied with – and paid for – a bunch of Euro trash football tarts called say Kaka, Eden and Totti, who they then find impossible to shake off – having signed stuff in their inebriated state – for say between 3 and 5 years –
Following this episode they’ll be bonded old-school stylee, and each time one of the above 3 bangs one in at our place that naughty smile of Arsene’s – that we don’t see enough of these days – ‘ll play about his thin Gallic lips and AW’ll throw a cheeky/knowing wink up to Good Ol’ Stan in the old Dir’s Box – if ‘e’s ever there – as yet another chorus of ‘there’s only one Arsene Wenger’ rings out around The Grove –
Job Done …
The End (of a new and glorious beginning).
u(European)Reds!
Goonertown@370 – Well said mate .
Dr Z – Bolton is in the diary . Will try and get a ticket . The rate we’re going , I shouldn’t have a problem 🙂
I will with heavy heart welcome the present short term malaise , if it does mean that the loaded guns of disgruntled support are suddenly turned on the rightful recipients – Silent Stan and IG – rather than AW .
It is a measure of the man (AW) that he hasn’t said more publicly , but there can be little doubt that recent interviews given by Dein and Bob Wilson reflect what he’s thinking .
I do think all predictions of dire and impending catastrophe are somewhat premature , but fuck it , if we have a bad season , we have a bad season .
Many of us were there in 75 , 85 and 95 when things weren’t looking too clever , and we all came through , didn’t we ?
Now what’s all this about Dawn’s crack , and Wolfie’s gropings ?
H2H – cheers for your kind words .
A round for all in the Bar , doubles all round Barman .
Still in 4 competitions , and clear of the Spuds in the League .
Up the Guns Of Arsenal !!
Maybe Stan is biding his time, waiting for a board room meeting so he can do his Al Capone with baseball bat routine from the untouchables. If I was one of the physios I would stay well clear. Seriously though, there is silent and there is 2000 light years away deep space Stan silent ( as he sings the opening lines from Comfortably Numb)
Goonertown and And Lester.
Hear here….. Like a phoenix from the flames, like steel forged in the furnace of the media glare….. we shall rise again to Frimpong them right and proper.
Like Goonertown I now have no expectations of winning anything this season. Instead I’m going to sit back and enjoy watching the development of a team with heart and spirit.
Backs to the Walls. Nobody likes us. Wolfie leads the revolution…..
Life is what you make it. Perception is reality.
hear here????
Samir Old Story 0 see Guardian ‘The Fiver” of today – says it all
Coyrr – even if the rift is a mile wide
Samir Old Story – see Guardian ‘The Fiver” of today – says it all
Coyrr – even if the rift is a mile wide
AL @371 – Great stuff mate 🙂
The only thing I’d add to your excellent post is that this Board/manager confrontation may be slightly different to the norm , bearing in mind ,
1. The brilliance of Monsieur Wenger and
2. The scary presence of a very rich slug like Uzbeki watching on from the sidelines .
Have a drink on my tab AL .
Dr C @374
I am wiling and ready to do my bit . Vive La Revolution !
I will of course lead from the back 🙂
Power to the peeps, Wolfie….
heh:)
Music to distract us, anyone?
How loaded will Wolfie come on?
Enough of these Rebel Rebels, is Frimpers the new Starman?
Or is Arsene the Man Who Sold the World?
No Ashes to Ashes here Dr C .
Frimpers Schezzer and The Verminator to do a job – all to a soundtrack of Heroes .
Or perhaps this …
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUbBqtxxKDY&feature=related
@383. takeabow(ie)son
Cheers H2H – time to crack open the vod methinks . Join me in a glass ?
And if anyone is still in any doubt that Frimpers is certifiably bonkers , I give you this …
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpG9ub5GSis&feature=related
tabs, Someone had to take the place of Eboue.
So Nasri fucked off?
*sigh*
I’m starting to like Frimpong already
Catalan Gunner et al, you are absolutely right. Decks cleared, fog lifting, concentrate on what’s important. The pleasure of watching Arsenal football. Played with heart and effort. Winning well a bonus. Relax and watch the youngsters grow into themselves. I can handle that. Quite exciting when you think of it like that. Drinks all round. UTA
What a nutter, that was absolutly terrible.
But only half as bad as the Waddle/Hoddle effort. 😛
I’ll have a voddie tabs, gotta warm up as I’m due behind the bar in a few minutes.
Cheers.
Joshua, I saw more heart from Frimpong in 60 minutes on Saturday than I saw in the whole of Eboue’s career. Don’t think you’ll see Frimpong feigning injury like a girl’s blouse, somehow.
Just hope he learns not to drink whole bottles of stupid, like Uncle Alex 😉
Don’t show this one to Wolfgang Smallballs:
http://rantingmad.com/demmands.png
Takeabowson @378,
Not so sure on that- That Fat Uzbek Slug is looking more appealing by the day especially considering the Yank up to this point in his first summer in charge seems intent on asset stripping the club, Could get the worst of both worlds it seems to me Kroenke gets the debt down quicker hence making a tidier profit on a short term investment,
Would be nice if one of the highly paid management team or heaven forbid the actual owner of the club come out and told us what the fuck is actualy going on then again that wouldn’t be The Arsenal Way, In fact why don’t they bring out P Diddy he always seem to calm the fanbase 🙂
zico, I’m with you. It’s nice to have the silliness and fun combined with heart and skill on the pitch.
Can’t believe things are to the point that he’ll be missed on Sunday though.
Time for Usmanov to rattle the Board’s cage, methinks. If he stays mum at this point he is as disappointing as Stan and Ivan. Arsene has been hung out to dry and is too much the gentleman to tell (yet). Can’t see him turning down the next approach from Real.
Lars ,
You outdid yourself there Sir 🙂 🙂 I’m on the first jet to Sweden 🙂
Chippy ,
Don’t disagree with anything you say – wouldn’t pretend to have the foggiest as to how it’s all going to turn out .
I do think , however , that the present Board will consider it imperative to keep AW onside , bearing in mind the dangers posed by Comrade Slug .
Cus, you know you are welcome here as long as the banter is the right side of the line. In my books the reference to Wenger, however humorous your lot and the Manc scum consider it, is out of order.
______________________________________________________
That’s a line drawn under it, right there. Cheers.
Now THAT’S what I’m talking about, ‘Hols 😀
Give it to ’em.
I’ve gone from disappointment to despair.
I’m not sure we’ll sign anybody in what’s left of the window.
To be honest, although I am not satisfied with the footballing abilities of our players right now, I am much more than satisfied with their attitude and behavior.
I’m with you CG (Not Dr. C) when you say it’d be heartwarming to see one of those kissing the badge because they truly are Gunners.
To be honest, I am much more concerned about Jack’s injury than the prospect of not signing anybody…
Get in! Won’t be 299 and 399 without being 400! I’m tired of being an also ran!
Takabowson 396,
Won’t argue with any of that and I think it’s half the problem no one has a clue what’s happening, This summer alone has set us back at least 2 years at a time when all things considered we should be starting to kick on again after the move – we are going in reverse. it’s completley bizarre especially considering the Board know the fanbase is at best tetchy,most are now furious, Oh to be back at Highbury the old girl used to soothe the pain somewhat 🙂
Buy abbey shown the door
Where’s my bug spray?
BMD.
Intersting that Pravda have responded to the Sunday suggestion that the Board have shafted Arsene during this transfer window. Not the usual stiff upper lip? No smoke without fire?
http://www.thefootballnetwork.net/main/s378/st170588.htm
Too right Chippy . Back at Highbury , the sense of continuity , whatever the footballing Gods threw at us , was all-soothing .
Not been shown the door, Cus. Consider it a yellow card, no more.
Some stuff that was considered fair game a few years back I now consider crosses boundaries. The Wenger stuff, the y word. It works both ways, and from choice as the proprieter I don’t want to see it here.
Cheers.
OK, I am now preparing for the worst:
If we screw up tomorrow, then I assume all Saturday kick-offs after European Thursdays nights (my, that felt awkward to write…) will be moved to Sundays, am I right?
bath: quite interesting that the club all of a sudden saw fit to send out an email on this particular issue when the silence has been deafening on every other subject that has been written about on blogs and sites. Surely, it can’t be because for the first time the board as opposed to Arsene Wenger has been subjected to heavy criticism?
Jesus you know things are bad when Holic bans the word Yeti 😉
Lars, Thats pretty much it in a nutshell I think,
I’ll be in St Louis in a week or so I’ll try to hunt down the owner and get Holic an exclusive 🙂 If not I’ll pull his stupid moustache,
Saying that think he might have moved to Denver he can run but not hide !!!
Bath,Lars,
Interesting thats the first I’ve seen of that article and what a badly worded reply, That whole saga has an orange glow to it !!!
Dein had his faults (clearly) but always had more balls than the old Board and Stan seems more in synch with PHW than DD. Fear we are in for a mediocratic philosophy for the foreseeable future.
Wonder will we hear the strains of ” Its in the wrong hands” a la liverpool supporters ringing around the Ems any time soon. Strange days indeed…most perculiar mama…
Bath,
The way things are going and the drip drip of information I fear we may see Dein riding to the rescue after the Slug has brought out Stan, (Nice little earner for a few months of nothing)
To many things are coming out in such a short space eg Deins interview about Wenger now this article + Response Wrightys total the end is nigh article today,(Hes a man that loves Dein) All our best players being represented by his son and scampering of into the sunset, To much us going on for it all to be normal goings on someones behind this campaign, Then again I might just be a conspiracy freak or even better David Dein himself lol
Evening all some interesting comments tonight and it does seem something weird is going on behind the scenes. I will be at the match tomorrow night and will try to do a bit of a match report. One thing I can tell you that probably goes against us is it is baking hot at the moment with temps up to 37 today so will definitely be having plenty of liquid refreshment.
Up the Arse
Lars @ 407 – you know, I never even gave that a thought when I booked my ticket for the Bolton game today. Just as well I didn’t pile in and get my flights booked at the same time 🙄
Austrian @ 414 – plenty of liquid refreshment you say? Lead the way….
Austrian,
Good lad have a couple for me and give the boys your all, I hope you get a nicer welcome in Udinese than I’ve had in Rome on a couple of occasions 🙂
@Lonestar:
Living in the mountains now means that Llama are in good supply…Just send me the order and I will help in any way that I can 😉
@zicoinexile:
Thanks mate, much appreciated. Surprised you remember me but, as ever, trying deperately to become more involved here but the failings in this third world lunatic asylum do seem to scupper those plans whenever I feel like I am getting close.
Never fear, Telefonica won’t let me down again…Will they :s
@takeabowson:
I think that the “aftermath” post was badly worded, badly rushed and badly advised in all truth. You are completely right in what you say regards “what is going on?” I think that this summer, more obviously than those preceeding it back as far as The Invincibles, was a summer where fast and decisive action was utterly necessary. Of course, I cannot say with any certainty that we did not at least try to nail down a few deals early on, but yet again, whilst United and others were actually SIGNING players that they pretty much had in the bag for months, we appeared to be milling around looking for “top, top quality” like we had no idea that summer was almost upon us and this thing called the transfer window would only be open for a matter of a few short months.
At the bare minimum, we have known for some time that a crackiing centre-back was a must and yet, here we are, still without one (albeit the defence, or TV as it is better known, appears to be playing well enough for two so that will undoubtedly be referred to as TWO new signings as he was out for so long!)
Strangely, I had a positive thought today when I found that Na$ri had finally organised his little money-spinning jaunt in the north…What if Wenger has a totally new system up his sleeve and he actually NEEDED to make sure that these players were actually gone BEFORE he could complete the purchases of the players to do the job? Wishful thinking, I know, but why have so many wingers at the club all of a sudden and NOT sell Arshavin or, so far, Bendtner when they basically been restricted to playing on the wings for so much of their AFC careers?
I am thinking that these two may actually get their more central roles which, with the likes of Bendtner and Chamakh getting more games (?) we would mean we would actually need PROPER wingers to supply them where they are, or at least should be strongest…In the air.
Yeah, yeah, yeah…Too many happy pills methinks!
@Matt:
I agree that Arseblogger has been a little leftfield this close season, but I think that he has a lot of fair points to make. Regarding Enrique, I think that the very best is yet to be seen of him. I had a tip-off that Clichy was going in the summer in, I think, January and I immediately started looking for some potential replacements. Gotta say that Enrique looked very much like a great player waiting for the right team. I understand that he may not have had a great game on Saturday and for that I must apologise for believing some of the comments in various web sites that claimed otherwise. That said, I think that ‘Holic nailed it when he relayed the LFC supporters comments regarding Walcott. I think that he genuinely does frighten defenders more than we realise, even if the end product isn’t always there. One mistake and you won’t see him for dust. This limits a left-back immensely and, I believe, is the main reason that Wenger keeps playing him there. He doesn’t have to make a single tackle to perform a fairly sound defensive duty!
Regards Baines, never was convinced either and was pleased he didn’t come.
Anyway, all of that aside, who the hell DO we buy for LB?!??! Ideas?! Surely we cannot seriously even consider thinking about relying on Gibbs for more than half the games this season. That leaves us with Traore, who does not convince at all, Vermaelan, who surely cannot be deposed from his central role as king of the world, Djourou who cannot be relied on to stay fit either and is not a LB by any means and Jenkinson who, in all honesty, I have not seen anywhere near enough of to know if he is that good or not, certainly not enough to make a call on his credentials for switching sides in a constantly reshuffling defence.
I do not have a problem with kids per se, but I do have a problem with asking kids to do an unfamiliar job in an unfamiliar department of an unfamiliar line-up…Difficult in any trade, let alone when there are only 11 of you (well, to begin with!) and the only competition on the day has 11 too.
Regarding “fairweather fans”, there are and will always be those glory-hunters at every club. That said, the road to Manchester is fairly straightforward if you aavoid the M6 in rushhour!!!!!!!
@N7:
“gobby sofa jockey johnny come lately” – Brilliant!!!! Made my day that! That name could apply to soooo many people that I USED to know! Sometimes I think that half the reason I left the UK was to get away from EXACTLY those people…Now they are all over the bloody web instead of just on the phone-ins or in the pubs!
Anyway, drink accepted but spilled on the floor due to fits of laughter making it come out of my nose! It’s ok though, Lars will buy me another 😉
While we are about it, please accept one on Lonestar as he appears to be paying my tab right now! Anyway, he is going to owe me a fortune soon for the exclusive Llama sales contract I am having drafted!
Anyway, nice short response there as always! Verbal diahorrea? Not ‘alf!!! For what it is worth, I think that a lot of it comes from the fact that, apart from the few that support Farcelona here (mainly Real Madrid out of the cities in Peru and they don’t really follow football with any conviction), there really is nobody to spend much time talking football with. Andf let’s be honest, I am not going to waste my time talking to that bunch of wankers!
Until tomorrow when we win the Champions League…Or at least something that may well feel like it!
Take care all 🙂
Very well played Winston, and I kept going right to the end 😉
Your Llama connections are well noted – Professor Storey will be most interested.
“Very well played Winston, and I kept going right to the end”
A very long read deserves a very long drink…
A yard of whatever you fancy on my tab 🙂
Top drink Winstons Myth. Have a drink on Nasri’s tab. If the board isn’t going to spend the money, we might as well get something out of it. 🙂
Like a New Signing 🙂
http://news.arseblog.com/index.php/2011/08/wenger-allowed-on-bench-for-udinese-showdown/
Thanks Joshua and damned good shout…
Not like Na$ri cannot afford a few drinks now…Poor little mite!
Gotta say, glad the little fecker is gone at last, never did see him leading the team this season and if he had stayed I could see Wenger using him in the central creative role and not buying ANYBODY for the middle of the park which would have been fine for about half the season 😉
Soooooo….anybody got the faintest idea who we are going to buy to fill the 5 (LB, CB, CM, CF and back-up GK?) massive holes in our squad?!
The bar’s open:
http://goonerholic.com/?p=3937
I’m quite concerned with all the drinks being placed on other person’s tabs…my bill last month was staggering (I could hardly keep it on its feet – har, har) 😉
Winstons, I hope the altitude isn’t causing many troubles. Lonestar Farms, LLC looks forward to a strong business relationship! Professor Storey can just sit back and let me handle the llama trade – Zico 😛
Personally, come hell or high water, I’m behind this squad, and I am looking forward to seeing the core of champions that is currently being forged in this crucible…
Drinks all ’round, please guv’nor.
BMD.
And just for the record…I think that Citeh are going to get a Toure/Adebayor rooting up the choccy in about six months when they find out that Na$ri wants to go play in Madrid (or Malaga if the truth be known!) and has a hideous drug addiction to go with his horrible cash addiction!
Imagine that! HA! Not to mention how funny it will be when they realise that Clichy cannot defend!!!!!!!!!!! Mancini played in WHICH position?! Aaaahhhh…That explains it then!
Take a quick squizz at this and judge for yourself exactly what size of a c**t Mancini is…
* – “Joining Leicester City in January 2001, Mancini made his Premier League debut against Arsenal at the age of 36, but failed to complete 90 minutes in his five appearances for the club. In early February, he was given leave of absence, citing personal reasons. However, he telephoned the club on 14 February, and informed them he would not be returning to England (he had been offered the manager’s job at Fiorentina). Despite this, he cites his time at Leicester as the period during which he fell in love with the English game, and which later prompted him to accept the job at Manchester City.”
Nowt to do with the cash on offer then?!??! HAHAHA! WANKER!
Seriously, somebody should phone one of the “sheik & vac up all the other teams players” bastards and explain how much fun it would be, exactly, to let a total and utter, never played so much as a semi-pro game in their life, sofa surfing NOBODY manage Citeh for a year and see how many trophies he/she could win given half of the money that Wancini has spent and a salary of, say, 100k per year and a win bonus of 1m per trophy.
Can anybody here honestly tell me that they think that they wouldn’t get at least close to winning something?! I am fecking certain that a CL place and a pot would be well within my grasp and what I know about the real inner workings of a football club would fit on Na$ri’s loyalty bonus paperwork!
Anyway, on a less vitriolic Citeh-hating note, I still think that it’s novel that Chelski fans are “off the hook” regarding tapping up and overpaying players!
Strange times indeed.
(* = Stolen lovingly from Wikipedia.)
catalan 356
it isnt a question of what i wanted to do about nasri. i said on this blog 8 months ago that nasri and cesc would go – the best players are the ones that get restless first and was as clear as day that they would be off if we didn’t win anything. goonertown and others told me that i was crazy. why wenger didn’t take any action to line up others is beyond me.