Goonerholic: Eat, Sleep, Breathe, Drink, Arsenal

The Real Flops Who Failed To Replace The Departed

Sep 20th, 2012 by 'holic

I am tiring quickly of some of the ludicrous claptrap (yes Charlie Wyett, I mean you and your ilk) being written about Olivier Giroud’s failure to score in three starts and two substitutes appearances for Arsenal. Some of us who have seen the finest two players of a generation (God 10 and son of God 14) take time to get off the mark have also had the misfortune of witnessing our failure to replace the original Judas, Frank Stapleton, when he blazed a trail more recently followed by some Dutch bloke. Olivier will succeed where many before him failed spectacularly to replace a deserter to Manchester.

When Stapleton departed in 1981 Arsenal spent a couple of seasons trying a bunch of has-beens and no-hopers to replace him on the cheap. John Hawley was a journeyman striker who had a decent strike rate in nine years at Hull City, Leeds United, and Sunderland. We splashed £50,000 of the £900,000 a panel believed Stapleton was worth on the Yorkshireman who had played under manager Terry Neill at Hull. Somehow he survived two years with the Gunners, but three goals in just twenty appearances tells you everything about his contribution. He had the first touch of a bull elephant with a club foot, and we were lucky Bradford City took him off our hands without demanding a hefty fee as well.

Hawley, however, was prolific when compared to another former Leeds striker, Ray Hankin. In November when it was dawning on Neill that the former might not be the solution to our goalscoring problem we signed Hankin from Vancouver Whitecaps for an alleged £400,000 dependent on appearances. After lumbering onto the park twice as a substitute in League Cup ties the big old unit was sent back to Canada. The money remained in the bank and the proposed pie factory in Gillespie Road was scrapped.

The following season Arsenal turned to the young Stoke City striker, Lee Chapman, to solve the problem. He scored roughly every third game at the Potters so £500,000 was splashed out to secure his services. Unfortunately for us his services appeared to be just watching what was going on around him or falling over the ball, a lot. He was the original square peg in a round hole, and lasted just a painful and embarrassing one season, netting a none too prolific four goals in twenty-three appearances. Chapman went on to flop the following season at Sunderland before refinding his mojo in two spells with Yorkshire clubs, Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United (them again). With the latter he picked up a championship medal and so he at least was able to forget his year at Highbury. If only those of us of a certain age could say the same.

Not surprisingly faith in the old style partnership of a big fella and a little one fell out of favour during these painful two seasons. Alan Sunderland and Tony Woodcock kept us afloat, but in the summer of 1983 the club invested £800,000 in a player of a very different stature to his predecessors. Charlie Nicholas may have delighted and frustrated in equal measure, but for five years we had a striker who inspired emotion and devotion. That, however, is a story for another day.

Olivier Giroud, you will grow into the job. I recognise a decent player these days because I have seen plenty who weren’t, and dear me Hawley, Hankin, and Chapman were three of the worst.

Posted in history | 197 Drinks

197 Responses to “The Real Flops Who Failed To Replace The Departed”

on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:05 pm1Ollie

First again?
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:07 pm2Ollie

Good ‘rant’, boss
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:13 pm3Goonerholic

Thanks Ollie. Off to watch this Ian Wright vid everyone has been tweeting today…
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:14 pm4behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Top five? Now to read the piece.

Steve T. in the last drinks @180. Good to know you practiced what you preach.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:14 pm5NS Gooner

Nicely put. I can’t understand how not scoring in three games makes you a flop already- it’s completely ludicrous. He has some work to do, admittedly, but his movement is really good, he can hold up play extremely well, and he provides a different option to anything else we have. Not to mention that he’s likely swelling the population of female Arsenal fans.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:15 pm6The Year of the Gooner

Good support boss!
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:16 pm7Catalan Gunner

Mid table? Obscurity? I’ll settle for that!
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:21 pm8Wind

Thanks for the lesson in good strikers Professor Holic!
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:21 pm9zicoinexile

John Hawley, bull elephant with a club foot is quite a mouthful though
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:22 pm10NorCalArsenal

Nice post. Olivier has the qualities and we owe him the time. I’m not worried at all and those that are are further evidence of today’s immediate gratification society.
Olivier has great movement, is a great target man and will find the touch. Gerv the swerve has 3 goals and how many were writing him off?
A little patience will be rewarded tenfold.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:24 pm11And Lester

Played ‘holic – ’tis true our new biggun hasn’t quite hit the Girou(n)d (beg pardon) running – but reckon he’ll get there. A coupla nifty assists more than suggests he knows what his up to. Plus last weekend’s revelation re Gerv The Swerv should hopefully take a bit o’ pressure orf in that area.

Psed – i know he’s ruffled a few Arse feathers in recent times and that – but the Wrighty video you mention is well worth a look.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:25 pm12behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Almost up on my backdrinking. H2H @172 Great link.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:26 pm13Catalan Gunner

Great rant. I’ve been getting increasingly amazed by the growing anti Giroud agenda. Which started after 20 minutes against Sunderland! Incredible but sadly true.

Spot on, Holic. And credit for not going into further detail as to Mr Chapman’s character
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:29 pm14Catalan Gunner

A thinking man’s Kevin Davies, if you will?
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:31 pm15Ollie

he’s likely swelling the population of female Arsenal fans.

He’s not John Terry.

Oh.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:32 pm16Ollie

Thank you, Norcal at 10. But I’m a bit past it if I say so.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:32 pm17les

Paul Vaessen was also seen as a replacement at the time. Unfortunately his knee went. RIP Paul Vaessen.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:34 pm18Ollie

If Eandy turns up (but perhaps he’s at the Stadium) tell him I’m very very disappointed with Sparta
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:35 pm19Oxon Gooner

Bah! Another relegation performance.

Goes to read blog…

COYG ICDDR
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:36 pm20NorCalArsenal

Ollie,
But were you truly satisfied?:)
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:37 pm21The Law

Like you ‘holic, I am utterly baffled by those calling Olivier a flop after 5 appearances (2 as a sub) in an Arsenal jersey, in which he has contributed in some way to at least 3 goals, producing one direct assist.

If he’s already a flop, then heaven knows what DB10 was at the same stage in his Arsenal career. Or Titi for that matter.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:37 pm22Eandy

Likewise Ollie ..I am not at Letná since I am sick-ish for whole week already fighting cold, but yeah ..they arent really up to it, it was just matter of time till Gomis will score after burning 5 good chances before, cant really see Sparta getting anything from this match. Too young and inexperienced side..but would be glad to get surprised.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:37 pm23FunGunner

Good point. A mountain is being made out of a molehill. It’s a non-issue. Fwiw, I don’t really expect anything much from him until Christmas. And meanwhile he is working his socks off.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:38 pm24behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

‘holic I never thought I would read the name Vancouver Whitecaps in your blog, except maybe in the drinks, but if only Arsenal had hired me as a scout back in those days I would’ve told them Carl Valentine was the one they should have signed. He was a left winger though so the Tories on the board were probably against it.

http://www.nsnews.com/sports/North+Vancouver+face+Whitecaps/4064546/story.html
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:41 pm25Oxon Gooner

Good points well made Guv’nor.

While we’re on the subject of impatient feckers, those of use who were supporting the Arse back in 1970 know what constitutes a long time without a trophy.

Just saying, like.

COYG ICDDR
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:42 pm26FunGunner

The fans in the stadium are giving him support, though. But it must be horrible to be asked about it so often, poor guy. And the camera in the tunnel at Montpellier was trained on him the whole time.
The danger is that the pressure will actually hinder his adaptation.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:42 pm27Eandy

Krejci!..hmm…still time to do something with it I guess
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:43 pm28FunGunner

@ Oxon
What does ICDDR mean?
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:44 pm29Johnno

Yes mate, I had the misfortune to see all three of the camels you mention. They were dark old times to be following The Arse. Alot of these moaners who slag off the current side should thank their lucky fucken stars that they never saw the shit on display in the early/mid 80`s. As for Giroud, I make you right. He`ll be a good player for us, I actually think he has started the season pretty well anyway. As long as he continues to contribute to a winning team, I couldnt careless whether he scores or not. I remember a few backward chavs slagging off Drogba when he 1st signed for them and stating that he was no good and they should have signed a proven 30 goal a season man. These prats dont look at a players workrate or his overall contribution to the team. The 1st year Drogba played for the chavs, the likes of Lampard, Duff, Robben and even Joe Cole all hit double figures that season, they wouldnt have done that playing off of Shevchenco week in week out. I bet the likes of Podolski, Gervinho and Carzola appreciate playing alongside the big man though.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:45 pm30Oxon Gooner

Fun – follow the link below

COYG ICDDR
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:46 pm31Goonerholic

Catalan #13, I was very close to mentioning something, but thought better of it.

Thanks for noticing.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:48 pm32FunGunner

@ Oxon
Ah, I see. Hear, hear.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:49 pm33Boz

Cheers, ‘holic.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:51 pm34Goonerholic

BOZ!
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:51 pm35Uplympian

Point put across very well ‘Holic. Having seen a fair few duffers over the years in the red & white, Giroud looks a good player very worthy of being in the team / squad. How many goals he racks up will depend on factors such as service & luck as well as his own skill. As he will not be the main penalty taker, matching the goals scored by an ex employee
( on a season by season basis) is unlikely to happen. He looks to have the attributes of a player who will bring much pleasure to us all.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:55 pm36And Lester

Pardon – he’s up two …
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:55 pm37Oxon Gooner

C’mon ‘holic, Catalan drop us a hint&hellip Pretty Please?

COYG ICDDR
on 20 Sep 2012 at 9:58 pm38Oxon Gooner

37 should, of course, read

C’mon ‘holic, Catalan drop us a hint… Pretty Please?

etc etc
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:06 pm39Goonerholic

Allegations best left unmentioned here please. Google may be your friend?
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:11 pm40Nonny

What concerns me most about this, apart from him missing simple chances by a country mile, is that after his FIRST GAME, he himself was talking about pressure and his manager has seen fit to talk about it more than once since. This suggests to me that he is struggling to cope with the move.

Maybe other people wouldn’t have been so keen to talk up his failure to score if he hadn’t been daft enough to “plead” for time after his first horrible miss in the first game of the season.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:13 pm41Oxon Gooner

I could have sworn I’d tried Google, but had actually only looked on Wikipedia. The first reference I bothered following on Google leads me to say “Oooh aaah” and leave it at that. I’m not really interested. Honest.

COYG ICDDR
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:15 pm42Silentstan

Those bemoaning OG are likley those ‘fans’ that climbed aboard or grew up thru the Wenger years. Us older fans have more patience and common sense
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:16 pm43Dexter

Giroud was written off by that well known high brow think tank called the Sunday Supplement after his 20 minute cameo vs Sunderland.

Since then it has continued and gotten to the point where it would appear certain factions in the media are actually willing him to fail miserably.

What a sorry endictment of today’s throw away instant gratification strictly come dine with my X Box society.

How you doing Fungunner? Long time!
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:16 pm44Snir Geuli

Holic! Don’t you read my posts?! I posted that Wrighty documentary in the previous post

As for Olivier.

Anybody who doesn’t see quality there, plainly doesn’t understand the game he is watching.

He has a deft touch shown both by his assist and his pass with the outside of the foot to slip Poldi in only for him to be dispossessed.

He is a tough ask for any CB in the league to win an aerial duel.

His knock downs are intelligent, ending up on our players’ feet more often than not.

People love to forget the fact, that while the Dutchman scored the most, he also missed the most chances.

This team is a team in transition, which will get better and therefore, create more chances for Olivier in future games. Chances he WILL take advantage of.

I already said I’m backing him to score more than 20 goals this season. Along with Poldi’s 20 goal season, and the defence conceding far less, I can only say – Robin van who?
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:18 pm45FunGunner

Hey, Dexter

Long time, indeed. Nice to see you. How are you doing?
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:20 pm46FunGunner

Some want to turn this into a Torres-esque story. But we won’t let them.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:20 pm47The Neighbour

Lee Chapman?

You nick all my stories
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:21 pm48Dexter

FG; All good, enjoying watching this team gel and develop before my eyes man. Cazorla was always going to be the big noise IMO, but Poldolski is a gem of a player. gervinho and he are sharing the goals too.

Looking forward to sunday’s game, not least as I’ll be there!

You avoiding the old place?
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:23 pm49Oxon Gooner

Good result for the neighbours tonight. They didn’t lose at home. Shame we couldn’t match that ourselves.

Oh.

Sorry.

Oops.

Must be getting tired. Time for bed I think. Night all.

COYG ICDDR
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:24 pm50Goonerholic

Oh, before I forget, off to the bracing West Coast tomorrow. Will try to post a preview Saturday, but may be well late…
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:34 pm51FunGunner

@ Dexter
Just fancied a change.

I feel exactly the same about the squad this year – quality, variety, flair, depth and team players everywhere you look. Fantastic buys over the summer. And we have finally (fingers crossed) got the balance right between defence and attack.
Enjoy Sunday! I’ll be doing the Arsenal Player thing. My first live game of the season will be Weds. Can’t wait.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:39 pm52Nonny

Snir – Some of that description of Giroud’s play reminds me of another non goalscoring striker who used to get talked up all the time by his strike partners …. http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01065/SNN1504HE-280_1065064a.jpg
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:41 pm53behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

One thing before I forget. If Giroud does break through and achieve what his potential tells me that he can achieve based on his brawny presence and deft touch assist for Podolski goal against Montpellier, then that combined with Cazorla, the LFG, the Ox, the Swervin Gerv and other potential contributors, would mean that we would have a very potent attacking force this season. We have already demonstrated that we can be very stingy at the other end of the pitch so let’s just do it by sheer will of force!!!
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:45 pm54Sajit

I dont know the reason for this rant holic. I havent yet seen a gooner criticize OG. And Im sure we generally dont give a toss about what the papers / pundits write/say.

Na na na, na-na na na,na-na na na, Girouuuuuuuuuuuuuu
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:46 pm55Sajit

And personally I think that it was the very close attention given to Giroud by the MNP defence that enabled both the goals.

Hes a class act. And the goals will come.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 10:56 pm56Dexter

Yep, only clueless gullible wing nuts would suggest Giroud aint a quality addition.

Fun; Thanks, enjoy Weds night too. Wonder if Arshavin will get a run out?
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:00 pm57Snir Geuli

Nonny – But Giroud IS a goal scoring striker. It’s only 5 games. The Dutchman struggled to score in his first matches in the new system.

And one more thing – His movement is one of the best in the league. Absolutely magnificent.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:04 pm58FunGunner

@ Dexter
Haven’t a clue. Normally I can get a sense of how AW’s going to play it with the CC selection in terms of the kids/fringe players mix, but this time, I can’t guess. I think the new league and the NextGen setup may sway what he decides. I’m really really hoping to see some of the newer kids like Gnabry and Eisfeld, even Akpom as well.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:06 pm59Northernbof

Although you write excellently well, and have a huge following who will rush to defend, I do deplore the increasing frequency of bloggers making unpleasant comments about players from the past. I’m sure a lot of guys who didn’t score a hundred goals or play a hundred games for the club remain fans, and die a little each time their less than revered names are bandied about. The poor guy(name misremembered through failing faculties) whose slip gifted Luton an equalizer in the League cup final has suffered years of humiliation in print ,when a certain forward missed God knows how many simple goals and a soon to be immortalized fullback missed the clinching penalty. Genius or failure they all had a chance to do what we’d all love to do……..PLAY FOR ARSENAL. I hate to seem censorious but you are far too good and enjoyable a blogger to cater to the lowest denominator.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:08 pm60behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

When Olivier starts blowing his whistle it could be to this tune so should be on the lookout.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrV_NX-MY6w
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:08 pm61FunGunner

Going to sleep now. Goodnight all.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:14 pm62Goonerholic

Northern, thank you for the gentle castigation, but please don’t get me started on Gus Caesar
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:15 pm63Snir Geuli

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/lukas-podolski-plans-arsenal-tattoo-1334911

This is outrageous.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:16 pm64Snir Geuli

In a good way of course
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:17 pm65garsguns

I too think he’s a good player judging by what iv seen,the only small chink by the look of him is an extra half a yard of pace,maybe that will come with the confidence of a couple of goals.the other night I saw an extra gear from the swerve.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:23 pm66Nonny

Nice puff piece on Feo from John Cross.

“Wenger insisted on Monday to a small group of reporters – myself included – that Walcott’s stand-off would not affect his team selection.”

That’s nonsense though, because it is quite clear that if he’d signed his contract by now he’d have been in the team ahead of Gervinho. No doubt about it.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:31 pm67Snir Geuli

Nonny – I’m not sure about that.

I’m not even sure that if he does sign a contract he has a guaranteed place in the first eleven.

We have Poldi who is playing great.

We have Gervinho who not only is playing great, but had the best preseason of all the players. He was just excellent in all our preseason games.

We have Ox, who I think is an upgraded Theo, as he’s got pace, a good shot, a good workrate, but most importantly, he’s useful ON the ball as opposed to Theo who struggles with the ball at his feet.

Theo is no longer a guaranteed starter.

Which is of course a good thing, because it’s a squad game, and apart from Arteta and Santi, nobody is guaranteed a place.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:38 pm68The Sweeper since 54

Holic
What i have seen so far of Mr Giroud,reminds me greatly about the tremendous unsung hero from the late 80′s,early 90′s,a certain Alan Smith.
He never really got the credit he deserved,but his workrate and intelligence off the ball as well as on,was top class.
Scored some really vital goals in crucial matches,Anfield 89 and the Cup winners Cup Final spring to mind.
I loved him for all the unspectacular things he did for the team,that were probably never really understood or recognized,because as we all know,everyone is following the ball,and the camera work in those days wasn’t sophisticated enough to do anything other than follow where the ball was.
But you can bet your life,his team mates appreciated his tireless running and ability to hold the ball up from a long ball out of defence when we were under pressure.
A TEAM player in every sense of the word,and a true Professional who was only ever booked once in his entire career.
As i have said on here before,the glory goes to those who hog the limelight,but the unsung heroes like Alan Smith et al, are the ones who allow them their days in the sun.
cheers
The Sweeper.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:38 pm69Ollie

*waves*

wise words, ‘holic.

I really don’t know why there is such a knicker twistage about Olivier’s scoring ability.

Give the lad a break.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:40 pm70mrswoo

Sorry ‘holic – that earlier post was me – it defaults to Ollie and I can’t clear it but temporarily.

I will give him a clip round the ear when I next see him.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:50 pm71Goonerholic

Hello mrs, always a pleasure
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:52 pm72Trev

Passion, history, logic Holic. Great stuff.

I have to admit I thought he strolled a bit in the second half on Tuesday night, but he was involved in both our goals, and has otherwise worked very hard.

Maybe Tuesday was due to disappointment at not scoring yet, given his comment after the first game he played. He seems the sort to take things to heart, but he’s had THREE games.

Two of those were against Huth and Shawcross, and Agger and Skrtel, not exactly the gentlest baptism into a new league, and he worked very hard throughout.

His movement vs Liverpool also made Poldi’s strike a lot easier.

I hope he plays vs Coventry next week cos any goal will do him good, and may well be the first of many.
on 20 Sep 2012 at 11:57 pm73Trev

Quality Sweeper.

Catalan – brilliant video in last drinks.

Snir – work and not being too well today have prevented a look at your links, but will catch them tomorrow. Cheers.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 12:02 am74Steve T

Nice report holic but like some others I do not see too many Gooners jumping on the media knee jerk panic bandwagon. It is just pathetic shite that lazy journalists churn out in an attempt to justify their existence. Like many, I am quite happy to wait until the end of the season before passing a final judgement. I really do not know why the discerning fan pays any real attention to such sensationalist bollocks. 2 goals to win the game at Citeh at the weekend and he will be the bargain of the summer???

I do like The Sweeper’s comparison with Smudger. I think that could be very valid and prove to be quite near to how OG pans out as an Arsenal player.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 12:19 am75behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

On the other hand…

If these players who retired generations ago haven’t developed thick skins and/or senses of humor about their football careers by now then it doesn’t much matter what people write about their playing capabilities now, Does it?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 12:23 am76Nonny

Snir – no doubt Gervinho has taken his opportunity, but if Theo is/was really out of the picture right from the start, and the intention was always to go with Gervinho with the contract having no bearing on things, Wenger would have sold or dispensed with the three players who scored and created virtually all our goals last year, in the case of Theo replacing him with a guy who only started half our league games, without having the excuse of an injury. Even allowing for the ACN only 19 starts doesn’t exactly put a tick in the ‘total confidence’ box.

It doesn’t really matter I guess, if Gervinho carries on as he is, but I can’t help feeling we’ll regret it if Wenger freezes Walcott out completely because of the contract. For six years he’s been talking about, and so has his manager, playing as a central striker. Now on Saturday, there’s no way Gervinho’s performances warranted him playing in that role. It worked out, but if I was Theo, after waiting all this time for the chance and seeing him get it instead, I’d be off.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 12:25 am77Trev

Bt the way, talking of lazy journos Steve T, I ventured into the dark realms of TalkSh*te radio yesterday morning, first time for a while, and Ronnie Irani – is he real ? – was explaining how Arsenal were on dodgy ground with Lukas Podolski, as he is very moody and left all his previous clubs under a cloud.

He went on to warn that Arsenal could well find themselves in a Tevez type situation in dealing with Podolski.

Honestly, WTF ?!?!?!?

Just how desparate is that station in trying to get Gooners to phone in ?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:07 am78behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Mr. T. Listening to such radio programs has prompted me to self-appoint as a medical doctor, and to make it my first step to advise you to immediately self-medicate.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:13 am79Snir Geuli

Nonny – I didn’t say he should be off. I said he should be a part of the squad.

But he is NOT a guaranteed starter under any circumstance.

I just don’t rate him that highly and his skills on the ball are not top 4 like.

I do however rate him highly for his running off the ball and exploiting space.

If you look at my posts from before the Southampton game and the Gervinho at CF role, I wrote that I think we should start with Theo at CF at the Etihad because I don’t think we’ll dominate possession there and we need a good, pacy counter attacking CF.

Gervinho or Theo can be that man, Poldi or Giroud can’t.

If we do control possession then I’d prefer Giroud up front but I just don’t see it. As opposed to Liverpool, City will commit a lot more bodies forward and our counter attacks will begin with their CBs almost on the halfway line. Our first goal against Liverpool, came from a counter attack, but that’s because Johnson failed to bust a gut. The CBs themselves were actually quite deep.

For City at home for instance, I’d prefer Giroud, but not on Sunday.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:17 am80behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Nonny. If Theo were indeed to point to Gervinho starting one match at center forward as enough adversity to justify his leaving the club, he must have a heart of glass. But I’m not saying that Theo has a heart of glass. I think he can make a magnificent contribution to this year’s Arsenal and we will certainly be able to use him any many critical circumstances, and sticking it out with Arsenal now when the competition is greater than ever before at his position since he first began starting games for us, can be exactly the motivation he needs to push him on to greater greatness.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:24 am81behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Not sure my #80 made complete sense. Snir made good related points, though. It’s interesting that since he said Theo should start against Man City, Gervinho has emerged in two games to be the favorite speedy center forward to start the game. Amazing what a well-timed and taken opportunity can do for a player.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:30 am82Snir Geuli

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/sep/20/nasser-al-khelaifi-paris-saint-germain

A piece about PSG’s new project, but these quotes really caught my eye.

Khelaifi wanted Wenger to leave Arsenal last summer to replace the PSG manager Antoine Kombouaré and oversee QSI’s five-year project. Wenger’s commitment to Arsenal did not waver.

“Arsène Wenger doesn’t want to leave Arsenal, he is very loyal to Arsenal,” Khelaifi says.

A short side-note – AW works for Al-Jazeera which is Khelaifi is a general manager of.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 4:15 am83behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Per Mertesacker has been trashed by Lawro in this week’s predictions. Let’s see who laughs last.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 4:45 am84Aussie Gunner

Agree 100 percent about giving especially strikers extra time to settle in and start scoring, and i beleive Giroud will be a great player for us.
But i want to ask you all gunner supporters.
Was Chamakh given the same patience and understanding by us supporters and manager?
And was he given enough time and oppurtunities to prove himself?
The answer to me would be (NO)
Hope the frenchman starts scoring soon and GO THE GUNNERS.
GUNNERS FOREVER NO MATTER WHAT.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 4:58 am85behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Aussie. You are on to something there in my opinion. In my recollection of things, Chamakh’s first three months were filled with goals and promise followed by the return of Van Persie from injury and the relegation of Chamakh to substitute’s role and a somewhat inexplicable loss of confidence in the player by both himself and the manager. Inexplicable I say because from my distant perspective (almost as distant as Australia, I would say ) he has never been given a tremendous opportunity to prove himself again.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 5:03 am86behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Of course he hasn’t grabbed and run with the opportunities he has had, as say Gervinho has at the start of this season, but still there is substance to the argument that Chamakh didn’t deserve to fall so far so fast down the pecking order.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 5:29 am87Snir Geuli

To anyone who hasn’t this yesterday.

A must watch for all Gooners.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 5:30 am88Snir Geuli

Have a look at 1:42 in the video.

Relates heavily to this post…
on 21 Sep 2012 at 5:50 am89behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Snir, More specific data is required on this end to unearth your meaning. Video, you say? I promise to look at 1:42 if some indication is forthcoming as to the proper video to watch …
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:20 am90Snir Geuli

Oops… It’s a bit too late so I forgot to paste it lol.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrQf_voR9LU
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:27 am91Cannons of Rhetoric

I think it’s fairly obvious that there are parts of the media that want us to fail and so attempt to discredit the abilities of players.
Some of our fans may also feel that if people at the club were saying that he was signed to replace RVW then why hasn’t he scored yet.

But, he’s working very hard on the field and assisting very well with our attack. He hasn’t shied away from running the hard yards so I think he’ll come good soon. In any case, it’s not a problem if everyone keeps pulling their weight and sharing the goals. If he does the opposite of Chamakh and takes a while then hits his stride it’ll be better in the long-term.
Speaking of Chamakh, now that Jack’s back, if they ever play together I’ll think we’ll see the Morrocan on the score-sheet. They linked up really well if I remember correctly…
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:37 am92Harsha

Am I still dazed or has Snir posted the video that he is talking about?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:52 am93Esso

Great stuff. Remember Hawley scoring against LWC’s at home, 1982 I think. We lost 3-1 and it marked the last time LWC’s ever occupied the North Bank in significant numbers.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:52 am94Snir Geuli

I did Harsha

@90
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:54 am95Col

As a Leeds United supporter I say don’t knock Lee Chapman. Yeah, I know he used to fall over the ball a lot, and he was capable of missing the easiest of chances. At times he could be so frustrating but his record for us was fantastic. He fired the goals that won us promotion in 89/90, bagged 31 goals in 90/91 season & bagged a hat-full in our championship winning side of 91/92.
Regarding Giroud, I would say keep the faith. When Henry joined Arsenal he couldn’t hit a barn door. Sometimes players just need time to settle.
Anyway, good luck to the Gunners for this season. Let’s hope it’s not too long before Leeds United can play Arsenal in the Premier League.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:22 am96Harsha

Today is my last day in this company. Feel a bit sad. Easily the best first company ever! Great boss(former), brilliant campus, nice people
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:24 am97Steve T

Ha ha Trev. Ronnie Irani the Lukas Podolski expert???? You could not make it up.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:29 am98Poppet

Those chaps came near the beginning of my supporting days. No wonder I am mostly optimistic and love Champagne Charlie (he still has it). Giroud looks good (I’m talking in the football sense), providing assists, holding the ball up and defending well. He’ll be fine, and likely a great deal more than that.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:46 am99scruzgooner

cuts to the byline and sends it back to the spot for a late night pre-sleep assist for the ton…
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:50 am100Snir Geuli

Gervinho again?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:51 am101Steve T

Podolskiesq left foot drive………
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:52 am102Steve T

Which was clearly off side??????????????
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:04 am103Cannons of Rhetoric

Well in Snir, and unlucky SteveT! I wonder if Snir has a Gervinho-like forehead to match his goal-scoring skills?

@95: Thanks for the vote of confidence Col and good luck against Forest this weekend.

@96: Harsha, was it the “best first company ever” because they allowed you to relax in this virtual bar all the time?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:25 am104bathgooner

A very fine post Holic. I share your confidence in Olivier. He is contributing regularly when selected and only needs to break his duck and relax a bit to begin to show his full potential. The naysayers have an agenda (as ever).
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:47 am105Goonerholic

Thanks Col. I did make a point of Chapman winning the title with Leeds so there was some balance. At Highbury he was in the wrong place at the wrong time. We needed to replace Stapleton (and Macdonald) and anybody at that time would have suffered by comparison.

Morning regulars. Nice lie-in today. Have a good weekend, all of you.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:01 am106Lars

“He had the first touch of a bull elephant with a club foot, and we were lucky Bradford City took him off our hands without demanding a hefty fee as well.”

Oh, get off the fence will ya’, was he any good or not?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:15 am107Trev

Morning regulars – How do you know ?

Hey 8ball -

Same radio station had an interview this morning with a Championship coach who said –
“well, it doesn’t matter who you are, you still have to play for 90 minutes, you still have to score goals, and you still have to defend well”

Great interview – who knew ?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:20 am108Snir Geuli

@Arsenal: TEAM NEWS: Same squad to midweek. Szczesny still injured. Out for 2-3 weeks http://t.co/GSf1QSWy
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:28 am109Ollie

Good goal again, Snir.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:29 am110Ollie

Heskey to Newcastle!

(that’s Newcastle near Sydney….)
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:30 am111Snir Geuli

@Arsenal: Wenger says he wants to give Wilshere 10 days training before playing his first game. http://t.co/GSf1QSWy
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:30 am112Snir Geuli

@johncrossmirror: Sagna one week from full training, Rosicky 2 weeks. #afc
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:32 am113Snir Geuli

@Arsenal: Wenger on Frimpong: “He’s a bit in front of Jack on match fitness. He could play tonight for reserves” http://t.co/GSf1QSWy
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:41 am114Counte Of Monte Fisto

Leeds fan here read this with a chuckle, John Hawley now owns an antique business in my home town of Beverley East Yorkshire. Good luck this season always want you to do well, at least try to give the FA cup a go and win something please. We have no chance of playing you in the league ever (whilst Bates is involved with our club) so no conflict of interest
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:56 am115Ollie

Snir, there’s a site called arsenal.com that avoids you retweeting things on the drinks….

http://www.arsenal.com/digest
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:08 am116Ollie

http://www.football365.com/f365-features/8094699/Friday-Quiz

Quite a few Gunners in that list then.
No Dutch cunt.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 11:55 am117Ollie

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/press-conference-extra-giroud-mannone-golf

heh, does anyone know how the Ryder Cup question came into the press conf?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 11:55 am118Ollie

On my own, I see.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 12:51 pm119Cannons of Rhetoric

I’m here Ollie! Semi-sober…
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:01 pm120Cannons of Rhetoric

Arsenal on this day in history put 10 past the LWCs. I think a Suntory is in order

http://afchistory.wordpress.com/2012/09/21/arsenal-10-tottenham-hotspur-1-on-this-day-21st-september-1889/
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:26 pm121Steve T

Interesting times re our keeper situation. Shezza out for 3 games Poss. Now if we get positive results against Citeh and the chavs and they come off the back of 2 solid Vito performances then AW has some big decisions to make. Shezza hardly covered himself in glory on his one outing so far?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:55 pm122arsabeatbarca

Holic, Mr. Sweeper said something that made me realize what I’ve been doing wrong in the past. Following the ball almost exclusively. It’s why I didn’t notice all the hard work OG does. This last game however, because you and the holics pointed out what he does on and off the ball, I made a concerted effort to follow him. Paid off. Goes with Santi as well. Also appreciate Northernbof’s insights…diverse opinions make me stretch and hopefully a better person. Now on a lighter note, I miss my Vitamin Z (ico)!
on 21 Sep 2012 at 1:56 pm123behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Snir. Having watched the video up to 1:47 I think I can glean that your point was that Stuart Pearce called Bergkamp a waste of money after part of his first season with us had elapsed?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 2:01 pm124TheHotHead

Great blog – I agree totally. People criticising Giroud already are crazy. New league, new team mates, new game, give the bloke a chance !!
on 21 Sep 2012 at 2:03 pm125True Storey

Afternoon all.

Superb, historical post maestro. Puts everything into clear perspective for me. That’s why I love this bar so much.

I fear I am having a bromance moment
on 21 Sep 2012 at 2:04 pm126Ollie

Two outings for Szcz, Steve T
on 21 Sep 2012 at 2:05 pm127Ollie

abb, how we cheered Juve’s equaliser on Wednesday while still in Montpellier!

You’re just a Bus Stop in Fulham….
on 21 Sep 2012 at 2:07 pm128arsabeatbarca

Hi Ollie
on 21 Sep 2012 at 2:23 pm129Eandy

hey Ollie and abb I think that the first matches of CL went on pretty much positivne note, shame Spartak couldnt hold to their lead against Barca though.

As for Giroud, I am among those who see great potential in that guy, he seemed to pile too much pressure on himself in Montpellier game but yet again, involved in both of our goals.

It is rare for the striker of his stature to be this good in link up play and his assist for Poldis goal shows how great his awareness of his teammates is and his ability to do whats needed. In that particular moment he could do many things, like hold the ball, try to turn and fizzle whole moment but no, he leaned on to defender and first touch opened acred of space for Poldi to deploy cool finish. Like I said before, he is doing everything right, just missing the goals and still think that he is going to be massive asset for our squad this season.

On another note, interesting point regarding Woj and Vitos situation, really tough descision for AW should (and hopefully he will) Vito put in good displays against Citeh and Chelski. Also..just cant get enough of pics of Jack back in training again, with TR 2 weeks from getting in full training according to Arsenes word, I cant help but to get really excited about our midfield options.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 2:41 pm130arsabeatbarca

See Eandy, Just what I’m talking about (your 3rd paragraph). This is how I learn.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 3:15 pm131Wind

Hey abb and Eandy

I subconsciously watch Giroud’s running off the ball and link-up play during matches, probably explains how I’m able to put forward such succinct arguments defending him against heathen Manchester United fans and the like who always revert to ‘he hasn’t scored :/’. He’s a top top player, better at linking up with his teammates than Chamakh was in that period where RvPrick was injured 2 years ago or so.

All a matter of getting into the right position at the right time for Olivier
on 21 Sep 2012 at 3:16 pm132FunGunner

http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/912777-olivier-giroud-is-wanted-back-by-montpellier-after-poor-arsenal-start

This is the sort of silliness the post is talking about.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 3:25 pm133Kenyanconnection

Think chamakh might join that list of the dead-feet-strikers?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 3:33 pm134Ollie

FG 320. Piss-poor ‘journalism’.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 3:36 pm135Trev

So, hands up, in the bar, all those who believe that Arsene Wenger and his scouting team recruit a player without really knowing what he can do.

Giroud will have been watched by local, regional, national scouts and Steve Rowley before Arsene even gets involved.

They will be well aware of his capabilities re finishing, link-up play, movement, temperament and doubtless his home life and character background too.

AW has stuck with Abou Diaby for 6 injury riddled years because he knows his potential. The same way he stood by Alex Song until he came good too.

The notion that Giroud has failed after 3 goalless games is too stupid for words.

It is TalkShite fodder, and after two recent errant visits, it, and the red top press are off the radar again.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 3:37 pm136Ollie

Kenyan, Chamakh’s first 6 months already were a better return that the ones I am reading above….

He’s not so much dead-feet as dead-head now.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 3:39 pm137Ollie

One thing I won’t complain about, Trev, is that I don’t even have the option to listen to Talkshite.
Wouldn’t make a difference, as I don’t ever listen to radio anyway, but still
on 21 Sep 2012 at 3:40 pm138Firstlady

A great post goonerholic, gives us the not so old a glimpse into the past.

I have a friend who’s criticized Giroud from the beginning, it has gotten so bad that in the game against Montepellier when he was at it again I had to tell him to shut it or go play football somewhere we see how good he is.

Fungunner 132. These muppets will do anything to see our guy fail. I remember when the traitor was employed as a centre forward it took him about 3 games to score, we all know what happened after he got the first one. As many have noted OG all round game is very good, it is just a matter of time before the goals come.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 4:09 pm139FunGunner

@ 138 Firstlady
ha ha at your middle para
Good point in your last para.

***
Just listened to Arteta’s latest interview on arsenal.com. No wonder even Liverpool fans like and respect him. We are so lucky to have him.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 4:24 pm140Ollie

http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/conor-henderson-joins-coventry-city-on-loan

A little arrangement before the COCup. (he can’t play against us)
on 21 Sep 2012 at 4:30 pm141Goonerholic

Hello all, at the hotel but only getting a few seconds of 3G at a time, and no wi-fi. It will be a struggle to blog this weekend.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 4:47 pm142Firstlady

I just saw Tomas and Sagna in the training pics! are they back in training already!! This team is going places, what with our injured players coming back, and the rest getting into the flow of things.

Sunday cant get here sooner enough, for the first time in a long time I feel super confident going into Sunday’s game as I think we will get a result that will surprise many.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 5:12 pm143Kenyanconnection

Ollie, the dead-head needs to come alive. There is still a tinge of magic in there somewhere…what the hell did he do to lady luck?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 5:32 pm144arsabeatbarca

Spurs were robbed of 2 goals yesterday. Hey Wind. First Lady, naughty @ 138 (smiles). Holic, when a hotel is described as ‘rustic and charming’, well, you know.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 5:38 pm145FunGunner

@ Firstlady
I meant to say before, say hi to Darius Stone next time you guys meet up for a match.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:03 pm146Ollie

Kenyan, given the result, I’d rather not be told what he did to her

abb: Spurs never get ‘robbed’ of 2 goals. We were just given comedy.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:04 pm147Ollie

Firstlady, they’re only doing light training:

Sagna 1 week, Rosicky 2 weeks before full training:

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/team-news-frimpong-rosicky-and-sagna
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:26 pm148Wind

Slow day. Or maybe since I never ran out of posts to read for 5 weeks, every day like this will be a slow day for me.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:30 pm149Ollie

http://news.arseblog.com/2012/09/lehmann-goes-to-town-on-van-persie/

Gotta love the Mad German.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 6:40 pm150Firstlady

Fungunner 145 I will, reminds me there is a derby here of the two best supported teams tomorrow, will call him in the morning find out if he is going.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:10 pm151Oxon Gooner

CoR@120

Marvelous 1889 clipping at the OnThisDay site you link to: “Barbour set the ball in motion for the home club, and they had not started many minutes ere the same player, by a splendid shot, sent the sphere between the uprights, gaining the first point for the Reds”. Wonderful prose. I’ve seen extracts from contemporary cricket reports in this style but had never before seen such football reportage. Splendid, splendid stuff.

Thanks again.

COYG ICDDR
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:39 pm152Snir Geuli

Holic, please check your email.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:50 pm153bathgooner

Ollie@149- it’s great isn’t it. You gotta love Mad Jens.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 7:58 pm154bathgooner

CoR @120 – fantastic link, mate

An important anniversary to celebrate.

A bottle of Ouzo on the bar for all regulars and visitors.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:01 pm155Steve T

Jens. Top fella. Did you read the article that said he may well represent Germany in the next Paralympics? Only Jens.

Holic, poor excuse.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:21 pm156arsabeatbarca

Steve T, mate you have me laughing. Ollie, the Refs in the Europa League are quite suspect. Thank you Gibbsy, for sparing us that fate. My take on Citeh is simple. They bring out the best in our players. If this was last season, would call it going either way. But, this year is different. We’re playing like a team and doing it well. Jenks and Gibbs are growing up right before our eyes. If we protect Vito, (we must), then I see a 1-2 win in their backyard.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:43 pm157zicoinexile

I awake, startled by the landing gear being freed from captivity on the under-side of the plane. My bleary eyes pick out the London landscape hurtling towards us, as we bank westward and descend toward the runway.

I quickly disembark. The Underground is eerily quiet, with only a few tourists struggling manfully with luggage that looks big enough to contain Roxette’s entire shoe collection. I can only assume that some people go on holiday for 6 months at a time, judging by the size of these suitcases, sufficiently capacious to store the little boy inside Van Persie and three of his brothers.

The Picadilly Line is starting to feel like a regular commute, even though I will only make the trip about half a dozen times in any given season. I have come to enjoy in particular the journey inward – in addition to the anticipation of the day ahead, I like the initial traverse overground and the sight of the sun in a cloudless sky before we scurry into the bowels of the city, and then at the other end, the feeling of release that greets me as I eventually appear, somehow regurgitated, onto the pavement at Holloway Road.

Outside the Herbert Chapman, I bump into an acquaintance whose relationship extends to sharing the same employer, and, up to this point unbeknown to each other, a passion for the Arsenal. I am somewhat perplexed to see this normally suited-and-booted businessman stretching outward in an extra, extra large shirt with Cazorla on it, as he is to see me in cherry red Doc Martens, and a fresh number one cut – “appearance is everything” we tell each other, unconvincingly. However, the things that we share do not extend to dipping into the Herbert for a quick sherbet, as he decides to veer away from the pub and off toward some bistro or other, for food.

As the enlightened patrons in here already know, though, solids are for softies and my determined walk takes me in the direction of Tollington Road, and the famous Brolly to meet some brothers in (the Tollington) Arms. At the gate, I am greeted by an all-in wrestler and the bass player from ZZ Top. They demand I flash my Arsenal membership card before they will allow me on to the premises. I get as far as the bar when I am accosted by the irrepressible And Lester, throwing his voice to the end of the bar which brings instant results as a Guinness, in matchday-disposable-outfit, is placed in my fist. Several more disappear in quick succession before I slope off down Hornsey Road.

At the ground, I am tempted to make a quick diversion into the Armoury and look for a gift for the most junior Miss Feelgood , but tell myself that it will have to come by post via an online click, otherwise I won’t see the kick off. As it is, the stewards, the queues for Block 124 and the obligatory call of nature make this a close run thing. But once the technicalities have been taken care of, I’m all set. Seated, eyes front, we’re off.

Cazorla is everywhere, not just the big guy’s shirt. Adept with both feet, it is a joy to watch him in an Arsenal shirt, as he carves out chance after chance for Olivier Giroud. After 20 minutes, one of them goes in, wrong footing the opposition goalkeeper as he gives him “the eyes”. (I once tried to explain “giving the eyes” to Roxette, but she totally mis-understood the analogy and left me bruised in the aftermath). Giroud runs to the corner flag celebrating like a spotty 17 year old losing his virginity. He is totally unplayable for the rest of the game, a mixture of aggression and deft lay offs with his back to the goal, great intelligent runs and assisting the rest of the team in both penalty boxes. This turns out to be the only goal of the game, but how significant?

Back at the pub there is much discussion about the strength of our squad, with everybody now out of the treatment room, bar the Polish goalkeepers with their mysterious injuries. Wilshere champing at the bit on the bench, Koscielny still to make a premier league appearance, Walcott (realising the error of his ways) bringing a pen to every training session. Choices galore for Arsene and Bould. And now a goal scoring Giroud to add to the potent mix. No longer a one man team. Just a team. I stand at the bar reflecting on that thought when for some reason the Blonde Girl from Sainsbury’s materialises in front of me and says, “That’ll be Seventeen Sixty, and that’s the last of the Glenfiddich.” I’m not sure which is the biggest surprise – the new barmaid or the fact that Holic has drained the pub of Speyside malt.

Later, on the tube, the train inexplicably stops for an interminable time at Hatton Cross, before a guy comes over the PA system aand mutters something incomprehensible in a language that could be English, Urdu or even Lallans. Whatever it is, it goes into my ears but over my head. Just as suddenly as it had stopped, the train moves again, a happy train taking me closer to home. I alight at Terminal 5 and despite the delay am well through security and into the welcoming arms of the bar, which to my delight is situated right next to my departure gate , 7. Serendipity or cynically calculated? I’ll let you decide. A swift dark rum adds to the fuzzy warmth that accompanies a home win. I pay and board the plane.

I awake, startled by the landing gear being freed from captivity on the under-side of the plane. My bleary eyes pick out the wet Edinburgh landscape hurtling towards us, as we bank westward and descend toward the runway.

And I’ve just had another strange dream……
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:49 pm158behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Ollie. Shouldn’t there be an FA inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the COCup naming scandal?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:50 pm159Ollie

haha, zico, great work! Welcome back.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:50 pm160behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

At least the Football League should have hold hearings and call witnesses …
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:50 pm161bathgooner

An extremely nice dream though, zico. Fine prose.

Look forward to that OG goal on Sunday, myself.

Slainte.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 8:56 pm162behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Good stuff zico, thanks for livening things up!
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:11 pm163can't be arsed

charlieboy nicholas

now there’s a fella who knew it was all or nothing with regards to a haircut

he jumped into his barnet with both feet

clearly

.
evening ‘hol and ‘hols
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:12 pm164zicoinexile

Heh bath, my premonitory dreams, like my life, tend to run late – here’s hoping you’re right.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:20 pm165Snir Geuli

http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/i-argued-with-arsene-wenger-all-the-time-1336302

Excellent interview with Jens.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:29 pm166Kenyanconnection

There is Only one ZICO, and he ours.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:33 pm167Samurai Jack

Have you seen this Snir?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACBYwGPnizU&feature=endscreen&NR=1
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:41 pm168Snir Geuli

Oh yeah, I have…

Not doing Pat Rice any favors eh ?
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:49 pm169garsguns

Well played dr.F.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 9:59 pm170arsabeatbarca

Zico, When you write like that, straight from the heart, I’m filled with awe and wonder. Someday, when you have time, consider writing a novel. Please.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:01 pm171zicoinexile

It was just a dream abb – you could never get Rox’s shoes into one suitcase…..
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:04 pm172arsabeatbarca

And I forgot to mention the humor, ‘bringing a pen to every training session’, priceless.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:05 pm173arsabeatbarca

Zico, we missed you.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:08 pm174Lars

Evening all, only a short stop here as I am so tired I could… I could… eeh… do something you do when you are really tired.

zico, we’ve seen far too little of you in the bar lately! Great dreamy stuff, let hope it comes true in the near future.

And speaking of dreams, I am now off to bed. Zzzzzzzz…
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:18 pm175arsabeatbarca

Nite Lars…
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:36 pm176Steve T

Abb. The Jens for the Paralympics was true.

Zico. You need to cut down on those dodgy night caps.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:39 pm177arsabeatbarca

Hi Steve, Yes, I knew that. I was referring to your comment to Holic:)
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:40 pm178Steve T

Well, let’s be honest. It’s shambolic really.
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:46 pm179Goonerholic

Zico, you sir are the mutts
on 21 Sep 2012 at 10:49 pm180arsabeatbarca

Shambolic, hey, that’s a great word!
on 21 Sep 2012 at 11:10 pm181Cent

Holic- good post,thanks for the history lesson,we young gooners who visit this bar will always love you for such lessons and more.

Zico @157 you sir are one heck of a gifted writer. Awesome.
on 22 Sep 2012 at 12:04 am182Trev

Zico – brilliant.

Should have sent that to the Guvnor for the weekend’s post, while he is paralytic, sorry, without WiFi in the West Country.
on 22 Sep 2012 at 12:42 am183And Lester

Zico nose – best …
on 22 Sep 2012 at 12:48 am184NorCalArsenal

Cheers Zico, love the dream.
Anyone know the odds of Balotelli going stupid again this weekend?
Sad to hear Aguero may be playing. Ah well, got to play them all to win the trophy.
on 22 Sep 2012 at 3:40 am185behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

NorCal. I’d say there’s a chance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KX5jNnDMfxA
on 22 Sep 2012 at 4:24 am186Bergkamp's The Man

Dr Z, you had me going there. Wasn’t sure if it was a late posting of a visit for the Southampton game or whether you were going to find your way onto the Orient Express to Montpelier or the Hogwarts Express for a quick Quidditch.

Very good though. Look forward to our forthcoming get together.
on 22 Sep 2012 at 5:20 am187Kenyanconnection

Abb170…am apalled he hasnt written one already! He has such an understanding with words. Does he know he is that good?
”suitcase capacious enough to fit the little boy in van persie and three of his brothers!” tell me thats not genious
on 22 Sep 2012 at 5:48 am188Wind

Great stuff Zico The game in question has the feel of Category C about it for some reason…

You lot in the bar heard about us selling out the 3rd Round Capital One Cup Game against Coventry (that’s 60,000+ tickets) and the Tiny Totts struggling to fill Shite Hart Lane against Lazio 2 days ago when they were giving out tickets for free!
Back in your holes you scrubbers…
on 22 Sep 2012 at 7:57 am189Matt (2)

I’m not certain why a lot of people here are so baffled by others saying that Giroud is a flop. If we can say at this very early stage that Carzola and Poldi are successes then the reverse can surely be applied to Giroud.

It’s also a little odd that some of the people castigating Chamakh for not scoring are the same people saying that Giroud is a fantastic player.

He certainly looks okay, but let’s reserve judgement for the time being and support him like we should still be supporting Chamakh – by my last count he’d scored more goals for Arsenal than Giroud.

Just saying…
on 22 Sep 2012 at 8:30 am190Ollie

http://www.francefootball.fr/#!/news/2012/09/22/000121_girard-il-y-a-un-probleme-d-equite.html

Heh. By the same yardstick, did he say it was unfair they had an extra day to rest BEFORE the CL game?
Thought not.

Anyway, usually Wednesday-Saturday or Thursday-Sunday and nobody bats an eyelid.

Friday games are new this season but I don’t see how Tuesday-Friday is any different. Especially as they had both games at home….
on 22 Sep 2012 at 8:33 am191Ollie

In fact, as the comments below remark, Bordeaux, who are playing on Sunday, will have about 7 hours less rest between the games
on 22 Sep 2012 at 9:33 am192Cent

Good morning all,hope you all had a swell night.
Matt(2) @189 you make a good point,ultimately it all boils down to not passing judgement on players based on a few games,i reckon Giroud is a better player than Chamakh though,their records in Ligue1 indicates that too. Moreso Giroud’s movement looks sharper/faster than that of Chamakh and he also has a better shot than Chamakh.
on 22 Sep 2012 at 10:35 am193Ollie

Right, I’m off so I’ll let you assist&score!
on 22 Sep 2012 at 11:31 am194IOllie

Blimey, you aren’t even trying! ;D
on 22 Sep 2012 at 12:14 pm195Cent

Why is the bar so quiet this afternoon? Can anybody hear me? *his voice echoes off the walls of the empty bar so he sits quietly in a corner waiting for company*
on 22 Sep 2012 at 1:49 pm196Goonerholic

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
on 25 Sep 2012 at 12:30 am197Aussie Gunner

What we have to be carefull of is,in a year or two players like Podolski and Cazorla will be well and truly settled in Premier league.
Billionaires, and oil sheiks will open their wallets for them try to take them away from us.
Examples are there for us all e.g V.Persie, Song, Nasri,Clichy,Fabregas,Hleb,Flamini.
They were all good players, most of them have arrived at a very young age, they’ve been nurtured and looked after by the club and made into the players they were.
But at the end of the day money talks.
I don’t beleive loyalty exists anymore (for some)