Weakened Arsenal Thrash Weakened Champions
Aug 10th, 2014 by 'holic
Well that was fun, wasn’t it? Arsenal (no mention of the missing World Cup Germans or that we started with Olivier Giroud on the bench) thrashed a (media emphasis, much-weakened) Manchester City 3-0.
Arsene surprised a few with his selection of Yaya Sanogo to start in the main striking role, and although the former Auxerre youngster missed a golden opportunity to double Arsenal’s advantage in the first-half he contributed two assists as a rampant Arsenal simply overpowered the City midfield, Yaya Toure and a certain Mr Nasri included.
From the off the Gunners coveted possession and City were reduced to attempt countering on the occasional break. Arsenal’s right flank, with new boys Mathieu Debuchy and Alexis Sanchez prominent asked questions that the champions couldn’t find the answers to. Early chances were traded, Clichy heading clear under pressure from Sanogo and then Debuchy and Alexis retreated to thwart Nasri and Fernando respectively.
The lead that Arsenal richly deserved came in the 21st minute. Alexis fed Sanogo on the edge of the box and he found Santi Cazorla who made room for a left foot drive into the far corner. Remember the play, because you will see more of the same this season, I’m sure. In fact we did just 22 minutes later. Alexis burst down the right with pace and fed Sanogo on the edge of the box who in turn set up Aaron Ramsey for yet another Wembley finish from the scorer of the FA Cup winner in May.
It was mesmeric stuff, an intoxicating blend of passing and movement at pace with the ball, and solid defending with new boy Calum Chambers catching the eye alongside Laurent Koscielny. Few wanted the half-time whistle to arrive, but it did and signalled a trio of substitutions by Arsene. That of Nacho Monreal for Koscielny is the most concerning, given that it was because of an Achilles problem for the French international. With Per Mertesacker unlikely to figure next weekend it means we could face Palace with the Chambers and Nacho Monreal partnership that played the second-half at Wembley.
Alexis made way for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and, most significantly, Giroud came on for Sanogo. After City had twice tested Szczesny it was the big Frenchman who calmed the nerves, thumping a glorious left footer home from 22 yards out while surrounded by three blue-shirted defenders. In truth that knocked the stuffing out of a dispirited City. Their half-hearted attacks foundered more often than not on the rock that was Chambers today. He may struggle to get a game when we are back to full strength, but how often do we stay in that happy state?
Indeed looking at all three new boys who started today it seems clear that the squad is stronger already, although another couple of quality acquisitions would be welcome. Chambers, if as versatile as he is being touted, could do a more than adequate job in three roles. Debuchy I thought was excellent as an attacking wing-back. The quality of his crossing was a delight to the eye, but defensively he may need to concentrate a little more, having been beaten a little too easily a couple of times in the first-half. Nobody will be surprised, I’m sure, to hear me being effusive about Alexis. He seems to have so many qualities, and all allied to a willingness to work his socks off from back to front, on the right, and in the centre of the park. I’m salivating at the prospect of watching him play with Mesut Ozil and Theo Walcott.
Yet from effusive it is time to plant one’s feet firmly on the ground again. Thirty-eight Premier League matches lie ahead. Beating the champions in a friendly, albeit a competitive and prestigious friendly, doesn’t put any points on the board. In the coming nine months we will hopefully close the gap on City that existed last season. We were the best team of the calendar year of 2013. Now let’s convert that to being the best team for a season, just for the fourteenth time.
470 Responses to “Weakened Arsenal Thrash Weakened Champions”
Drink!
Get in!
Bugger! Esso, you fast gentleman!
Borussia Dortmund announce Mats Hummels as new club captain in the hope that he avoids being tempted by other clubs…
Captain eh? Little do they know…
😀
Cheers H. That put a FRIENDLY smile on my face.
Nice summation, ‘h. We saw the same game.
That’s right, BBC typically says City was rusty and missing EIGHT main players and goes on listing Sagna and Lampard amongst them. WTF?
Nice day out. Very comfortable. The new boys look good esp young Calum – very classy.
Job well done.
Now for the finishing touches to the squad and the real stuff.
AL,
Yes , read that too… indeed WTF!
😀
Arsene : “Of course [I take confidence]. It’s a trophy. People remind you that you lost a trophy when you lose it and when you win it, it’s only the Community Shield. It was an important game in our minds and it can only boost the confidence and the belief of the team.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/20140810/boss-on-chambers-and-another-trophy
we really need a new CB….monreal did a good job today in that position…but am nt takin any chances….sign us a new CB plzz wenger!!
The goals on BT Sport. Not sure if this will work outside the UK…
http://sport.bt.com/video-01363814401986?videoid=3723725432001&videotitle=Goals%3A%20Arsenal%203%20Manchester%20City%200&videoimage=d21%2Funsecured%2Fmedia%2F2503979514001%2F201408%2F1670%2F2503979514001_3723923349001_shield-crop.jpg
Very level headed, ‘Holic. Everything pointing encouragingly in the right direction but not a ball kicked in anger yet.
Citeh’s defence has always looked vulnerable (this was, after all, the second time in three games that we had put three past them) but today really showed up how important Kompany is to them.
re: 11: This should work most places:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fr8KItNDjJ0
US highlights on FOX
http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/video?vid=317005891511
nice one ‘holic
just traipsed up
a weakened hill
to get to my
wholly undedeserved
house of victory
.
gonna take me shoes off
leave me shades on
and sing the cows goodnight
.
#Arsenal
ssshhhhhh
#Arsenal FC
ssshhhhhhhhhhhh
.
grand write up fella
top man as always
.
i’m fuckin chuffed
🙂
@al
Hart
Zabaleta
Kompany
Demicheles
Kolorov
Nasri
Fernandino
Toure
Silva
Aguero
Negredo
That’s eight missing from the starting line up. Not only that Boyota is fifth choice centre back and a left back was playing right back.
Arsenal were missing three at most.
Well done you took a friendly more seriously and won. You played well.
Can’t comment until I’ve seen MOTD but it’s a very satisfactory start and one that appears to have upset the Northern fixated media. Michael Owen in his whiney, banal and quite inaccurate way is becoming a huge hate figure for us Gooners and long may our side’s success irritate him as much as he irritates the hell out of us.
I hope Arsene can add a couple of additions. Palace will be awkward next week and the CL qualifier is absolutely vital to our season. I hope we can find a CB and another versatile midfielder who can help us develop and maintain our momentum .
I now await Lawrenson, Lily Savage or Shearer looking aghast as their beloved Citeh a side whose squad should be strong enough to put up a better performance than this are shown up by our full- strength squad
Lots to feel good about ahead of the real stuff this weekend. Most importantly the team seemed energetic, confident and cohesive, with lots of players seemingly intent on making a point to their manager (I’m thinking in particular of Jack Wilshere, Sczcesny and Sanogo, all of whom will want to stake claims in different ways to playing time in coming season). All three of the new boys who took part today looked excellent. I was especially impressed by Chambers – it seems he will be backup this season at three positions, which will be a great boon to the boss. Whatever position he eventually ends up playing in, his versatility will always be a huge asset to his career. It looks like at least to start the season he’ll be used predominantly at center half, though there’s no question we need another one.
Expect the cries for new signings and the aimless speculation to ramp up in the coming weeks. Not particularly looking forward to that. But we’ll have REAL FOOTBALL to distract us.
COYG
Pfffffffft
Fair enough, Invading Opposition. You’ll find most in this bar very reasonable on that count. You’re right that much of City’s lack of fluidity and cohesiveness can be chalked up to all the missing players. But with the oil money City have and the way they like to spend it – with virtually two first-teams at Pellegrini’s disposal – you can imagine how Citizen’s complaining sounds to us.
And it’s worth repeating, Ozil, Mertesacker, and Theo in particular are not exactly fringe players for Arsenal.
The real thing starts next week.
Btw, referencing a conversation in the bar from a few days ago: I was talking today with a Bayern Munich supporter who was livid that Pep Guardiola has pressed their returning World Cup stars back into competitive football so quickly. And notice that Wenger isn’t the only manager giving his World Cup players some time off – Pellegrini will start the season with quite a few absences. Just for a little perspective.
It was a better day out for me at Wembley than my last one, less stressful as a whole. My main thought was that we looked a lot more compact as a team, and Jack truly had an excellent game for the majority of the time he was on the pitch, even as he was getting the stuffing kicked out of him. Santi always seems to know when we need to score an important goal at Wembley, and duly obliged the collective need from the Gooners in the crowd. Ramsey’s goal was probably the best technically out of all of them, and Giroud showed great strength and patience to hold off the City defenders before netting his spectatular strike.
I was glad to see Sanogo vindicate Arsene’s decision to start him with two good assists, if he doesn’t score as many goals as we hope in the next season, I hope he can garner a respectable assist tally. On Sanchez, I have a feeling it will take one goal and he’ll be unstoppable for a while. A word for Chambers as well, no fear for him starting next weekend as RCB, the composure he showed today dissipates any inkling of that. Him and Debuchy sorted out any mistakes they might have made which was pleasing to see. It would’ve been nice to see Campbell get many 10 extra minutes to show more of what we know he can do but they’ll be more time for that as the season goes on, I’m sure.
When we all started doing the Poznan to mock the City fans, you just had a feeling it was gonna be a good afternoon haha, very glad I was able to witness us lift a trophy in person for the 1st time, something I won’t soon forget. Looking forward to Saturday’s game with tempered optimism, come on Arsenal!
Nice one ‘Holic
Well drunk Esso.
You can only beat the team you’re playing and I thought we did that comprehensively. Their 4-4-2 played right into our hands as we were able to boss the midfield (Yaya Touré looked old, has he had another birthday?).
Going into this game I just hoped we wouldn’t get battered as that would dent our newly found confidence. As things turned out I think that this win is something we can really build on. Add a centre back and a proper power house DM (who shouldn’t play all games as we usually don’t need a player like that) and we are good to go get that league title.
Kos’s injury is obviously a big worry since a Monreal-Chambers pairing isn’t something that would make me very confident.
Almost forgot, very nicely penned ‘holic. Looking forward to seeing you and others at the usual place on Saturday 🙂
howdy wind
i hope a few windy epics
will be left on ‘holic’s doorstep
this season
.
always a crackin good read
they are
If the goals don’t work on the BT site, they’re on the BBC website (assuming that works for the overseas viewers)
Highlights (4 mins) – http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28732380
Cazorla goal – http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28732363
Ramsey goal – http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28732361
Giroud goal – http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28732379
Invading Opposition Fan:
Considering how useless they both were I can understand that you thought they weren’t on the pitch, but both Nasri and Toure started the game. Silva was subbed on after half time, and Hart wouldn’t have made a blind bit of difference to the result either so that list of yours is considerably shorter than you make it out to be.
Anyway. A nice win and a very good first half and it can never be a bad thing to create some nice Wembley memories, but like the Guv’nor said the real deal starts on Saturday.
Evening Holics
It really was a fun day out, massed ranks of Gooners verses the empty top tier at our opponent’s end.
For me, this was a game of two halves. Arsenal, with what may well be their starting line-up for next Saturday, controlled the first half, playing stunning football. Some of the moves were Wengerball at it’s very best. Santi & Rambo scored two great goals with Alexis, Chambers, Gibbs and Debuchy all taking the eye. I was particularly impressed with the industry of Alexis, tracking back helping out his right back and the attacking play of Gibbs.
The changes made at half time and a City side stirred up during the interval took some of the wind out of our sails in the second half. The midfield were less effective with Flamini replacing Arteta and apart from one great run into the box, the Ox spent most of his time defending.
When Giroud managed to get his shot away I never thought it would end up in the back of the net.It took many of us by surprise, thinking the ball would clear the bar, amazing!
The back 5 did really well to maintain a clean sheet. There were one or two strong tackles with Kos, Gibbs,Ches,Chambers and Ramsey coming off worse, here’s hoping all are available for next Saturday.
We looked exciting albeit against under strength opponents but you can only beat those that are put in front of you.
Nasri got the full treatment from me and the hoards of Gooners in attendance, the shirt that finished up in the charity bag still rankles.
COYRs
Holic, Your report makes me even more eager to watch this match! 22 yards out … Yahoo! Like the old days 😉
Can’t take your advice yet, head in the clouds. xx
Haven’t seen anyone else mention it but BT said this afternoon that Aaron Ramsey has now scored 26 goals in his last 35 games – from midfield !
Blimey !
First half was pure silk, Nursie. 😉
nurse abb
if yer at a loss
sing to the cattle
they love good tunes
well sung
.
try some Ronettes
.
lemme know how you got on
.
if you rile them
there’ll be trouble
yup
Tea
Our
Owe
You
UBBLE!!!!!!!!!
Oh Trev, and everybody… this place is so magical. Can’t describe how it feels to see my friends here and read their thoughts. You lot mean the world to me.
I believe this is a good time to read this; The Big interview featuring our new club captain; http://www.arsenal.com/news/features/20140522/-i-am-so-proud-to-be-part-of-this-club-
cba,
cows love mooosic ….
who knew ?
😉
Abb, 😀
Trev, cba, Cent, Delia, allof you. Lovely to see you all celebrating. This is when football is fun 🙂
Invading Opposition Fan,
BT were claiming that two of your important missing players were Sagna and Lampard so I take it there are a couple of errors in your list.
Seems Zabaleta and Toure are yesterday’s men – or were BT possibly exaggerating ?
At least you know you can count on Nasri when the going gets tough 🙂
Heh, Holic !
Fun indeed, maestro, fun indeed. 🙂
nurse abb 🙂
.
trev
cattle are bizarre
crazy big lumps
that would trample
over you
to get ahead
.
not unlike
some twonks
i encountered
in my ex-life
but
like all of us
they like a good tune
.
indeed
a bitta king tubby
calms dem rockers down
You know it, Holic! I’ve missed this feeling so much, I can’t wait for next weekend to come so I can get another dose of The Arsenal.
Invading Opposition Fan,
Please, don’t compare starting line ups, because things on that front are quite simple.
For example,
Kolarov costs you 25m more then Gibbs costs Arsenal.
Nastasic cost you the prize we paid for both Kos and Chambers.
Clichy equals the price of Debuchy.
Transfer fees that City paid for Yaya Toure and Fernando are 5 times more then what Arteta, Wilshere and Ramsey cost Arsenal.
City paid more for Navas then Arsenal for Cazorla.
The cost of Dzeko is equal to the one of Alexis.
Jovetic fee is almost 30m more then the one of Sanogo.
Caballero is a free transfer as is Woj.
So, City’s starting line up cost around 100m+ more then ours and you had a weakened side?
TaBS, mate, wherever you are, you are been missed here.
Nice one, Lurky, really nice one!
howdy ‘holic
didn’t see you there
.
isn’t it great
tension
excitement
week to go
.
THE ARSENAL
.
fuckin mighty!!!!!!
.
🙂
It’s starting to feel a little bit good cba 🙂
Can you picture Ozil feeding Alexis and Theo?
Good job we have loads of injuries or we wouldn’t keep everybody happy 😉
Thanks Cent,
City fan blaming their starting line up when losing makes me sick, so some things needs to be said. And I even forgot to mention their 25m boy Nasri, maybe because I saw him just twice during the game.
Lurky. Nail on head sir. You said what I meant to say earlier, albeit much more clearly/thoroughly.
Fuck the mancs.
I Roy and Big Youth
blastin me wee speaker
most o me walk home
must say
had a wee thought for
GoonerT
god rest him
.
this bar is real
.
44 ‘hol
Yup e doodle
😉
Pajama Party in full swing! And some cute cows lending to the fun courtesy of cba 😉
Invading Opposition Fan. You have a very respectable Manager. Navas is a work horse and a real threat. Clichy seemed to give his all and you have Sergio (such a pleasure to watch) to look forward to. So cheer up! 🙂
Cent, Arteta (like TV), is a real gentleman. xx
Solid Gooner, I read your link on Nasri (last set of drinks).
Still reeling from what he said. Very hurtful and I’m afraid I will never be able to recover from “I am not an Arsenal Fan”. Surely he could have kept that to himself 🙁
nurse abb
glad you noticed
the girls moosturise regularly
*giggles*
Cba, God rest him indeed! It would have been great for him to have been around to share at least one of our recent trophy triumphs. Anyway, I’m sure he is up there beside the Almighty persuading Him to give us more days this.
cba @ 24, good to see you mate, & I’ll see what I can muster up on occasion 😉
great write up Holic – in particular the following line:
“It was mesmeric stuff, an intoxicating blend of passing and movement at pace with the ball”
the days of sideways denilson pass seemed a distant memory. It was great to see the team so aggressive in attack and press so hard in defence. they were indeed a pleasure to watch.
For those yet to see the match in full, every minute worth viewing.
Of special note was the creative side of Alexis in attack and his high work rate in defence. great player, top shelf buy from AW.
Calum Chambers, very cool and calm for a young lad.
But the best part for me was seeing the Gunners fans doin the Posnan to the city fans. The arsenal fans were having heaps of fun at the expense of City fans.
Priceless
Hey guys and girls I hope you enjoyed watching that thrashing of City!
My favourite part was us doing the Poznan!
Brilliant bants 🙂
Anyhoo, you may have noticed I’ve been in and out of the bar recently, it was because I was busy making preparations for my wedding to CoRette which took place on Saturday 9th!
I got an Arsenal wedding cake made and everything so thought I’d share those pics with you. Check out my twitter or maybe follow the link below if you don’t do twitter 🙂
@Jetlifari: Just got married 🙂 http://t.co/EYLfdBi92i
https://twitter.com/jetlifari/status/498261682901110784
Congrats CoR!! Nice touch with that cake, mate. All the best to you and the lovely bride!!! COYG!
Congrats COR!
CoR Just saw your wife’s picture and you are a lucky so-and-so. Be sure to hold on to her. 🙂
Congratulations CoR!!!
Great day all round, more impressed by the attitude and application than the final result to be honest. Well done boys.
They just need to keep the fire burning and then stay fit. If that defender/midfielder is added, there could be a series of pleasant surprises awaiting us come May.
Congratulations CoR, happy married life.
Abb@49, he isn’t the sharpest tool in the box as Steve T said. Outside further alienating himself and being more open to derision, he’s now under undue pressure to prove ‘us’ wrong. Long may it continue.
Abb,your positive disposition and contribution makes for a better bar. Thank you.
Well done, CoR! Best wishes to you and the missus.
congrats, cor. May your married life bring you blessings and unconstrained joy!
great write up, guv. saw the first half here in the bar, then left for the day. just watched it, and wow, what a shot by og! beautiful stuff, though a quality team could have punished us towards the end of the game. feet fully on the ground, for now.
Very satisfying. A better start to a season than I can remember in yonks. Some obvious rust, some missing stars and a disappointing second-tier opposition but very encouraging nonetheless.
Now, what’s this I read about Galatasaray officials in town to discuss bids for Joelthegoal and Poldi? http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/393635/Arsenal-close-on-next-BIG-SALE-of-the-summer-as-Galatasaray-officials-fly-in-for-talks
If there’s any truth in the above it suggests to me that we are indeed serious about a bid for Marco Reus. I would swap those two for him in a nanosecond. Fingers crossed here…
Then again it could be just a loan spell for JC.
Öskar
Congrats CoR and CoRette!
No offence taken, LHTG (previous drinks), I may have given the wrong impression somehow. Perhaps I should also have qualified that my style involved a large degree of risk-taking. I have never been one for the safe approach when a more spectacular result can be achieved taking risks. The trick is in how to control the risks within bounds.
If I were AW I would have risked demanding ALL my stars be available for the new season. And with Kos injured today and unavailable for Palace, it wouldn’t be hard to justify that demand.
Öskar
Agree on Reus, Oskar, it would be a massive signing, but most of all a clear sign that we can beat the best clubs in the world and get a player whole world is trying to get.
Howerer I highly doubt that is going to happen with the financial power of Man Utd or Bayern, but you never know. He is Rosicky fan and all that, so it may happen.
As for Poldi, if an offer of anything around 12m+ arrives, we should sell, without a doubt. I like him a lot as a person and I think he is very positive for the team spirit, but we overcome him as a player. I read a very interesting article on him just yesterday, a good analisys of his contribution to the team thwt highlits his weaknesses and limitations. With Holic approval of course.
http://wearethenorthbank.com/podolski-lies-damned-lies-statistics/
If what we see this year is much more ruthless Arsene than usual, I am afraid that Poldi is gonne if a good offer arrives.
The financial power of Manure and others isn’t as far from our mark as it used to be, Lurky. The ‘new’ AW has a much more liberal attitude to Arsenal treasure than the old one we became used to during the stadium-funding years.
As for Reus there have been rumblings in the media lately suggesting our interest is real, as opposed to the wishful thinking I’ve been doing for at least the last two seasons. Plus the release figure in his contract is remarkably low, and the contract runs out soon. So, although they have no intention of selling him now Dortmund could well be bulldozed into parting with him sooner rather than later.
We can hope. Imagine, a front three of Reus and Sanchez either side of OG. Mouth-watering!
Öskar
If his departure is to make way for Reus I agree entirely about selling Poldi. We would have more than enough on the left side, including the best, Reus (after Ronaldo).
I think the article you link to is a little unfair though. It talks about games played, without clarifying minutes on the pitch. In the comparison with Theo I doubt he played as much actual game-time, often being subbed on late in matches.
Öskar
Oskar, the teasing parts of your latest post linking us to Reuss, will send El Puno and GT into overdrive.
what time do the USA come on line…..
good stuff all round and mouth watering indeed.
BTW Oskar – how did you rate Santis performance yesterday as I know you have him in a similar rating as my second favourite player Ozil11. (please don’t tell Mesut my new favourite is Alexis)….
I already feel torn between the two
Congratulations CoR!!
After a long day at the beach, finally saw the recording. Had the phone turned off all throughout the day, stayed off the Internet, and Massachusetts shoreline not being well populated with followers of English football didn’t accidentally get to know the result. Possibly my longest not-knowing-the-result suspense after an Arsenal game.
A team performance that brings smile to the face. Many notable individual displays, and all have been talked about here. Thought Santi & Rambo were just fantastic for the first half an hour. Sanogo’s runs were exciting, and Chambers looked way composed and clever than his age. Gibbs and Debuchy were very solid as was Szczesny except for one or two odd moments.
People wondering about Giroud’s long-range cracker, he had scored a few goals like that at Montpellier, and with us had a few attempts before, most notably the pile-driver against the crossbar in the last minute last season at home against Everton. Has a much better left foot than what most people give him credit for.
Sanchez is evidently still learning to play with his team mates and choose the best options, but everything about him seems such a natural fit. The direct runs, the twists and turns in the small space, always being available for a pass…already good understanding with Debuchy and Rambo.
Congratulations to Arteta! Much deserved captaincy for the leadership shown on and off the field since he joined. He won’t probably play that many match this season though.
Arsene, apparently, is looking for a versatile defensive player. 🙂
“You make your position with your performance and you have to accept that. With the boys who have chosen to live in a competitive world, who plays? I cannot tell you. But maybe a guy who can play in two or three different positions would be a better asset for us.”
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/20140810/wenger-on-winning-and-attacking-options
Lurky @ 40: Good response! I really hope Pellegrini drives Hart away from the club, and gets another Argentinian or ex-Malaga player. 🙂
Given the way Argentinian economy is heading south — not really due to too much of their fault — won’t be surprised if City wants to buy all clubs in Argentina, just to be sure. 🙂
Morning. I have only seen the highlights but there was some impressive stuff in there I must say. You’ve got to feel sorry for Citeh. They have only spent 1 billion pounds and they did have a few players missing. Bless their little cottons. It was just totally unfair.
The more I watch Rambo the more I am starting to expect great things from the young man. As someone who has not been to the World Cup I guess it’s only right that he looks that bit sharper at the moment. If he stays fit this could be one very special season for the young lad.
3 well taken goals. I’m still far from convinced with Sanago. I hope I’m wrong but he just does not look good enough to me. I’m also worried about Jack. Every time he gets tackled he seems to get hurt???
Some good performances from the new boys. All looked more than comfortable.
Nice report h. A preview and a match report!!! It’s back. It’s been a while but it’s back. Fantastic stuff.
Many congratulations to you and the missus COR!
Oskar@65 – with tantalising transfer stories like the Reus one you posted above, you will have El Puno and GT in transfer heaven.
What time does the dynamic USA duo check in.’
great stuff all round and mouth watering indeed.
BTW Oskar – what did you make of Santis performance considering he is not your favourite player along with my second favourite player Ozil11.
(please don’t tell mesut he is now second favourite to Alexis)
Steve T@74: I was more convinced this match by Sanogo as he showed more strength and presence using his size.
However, Jack looks more out of his depth every game as the gap between him and Aaron is now significant and ever more noticeable.
Too early to opine about anyone yet, Aussie. But I agree with Steve T that Rambo looked readier than most. Young Chambers looks very promising, but he’s going to get a lot more pressure than he had today. I liked Debuchy’s attitude, in attack anyway. Mikel worked hard, but … ? Sir Chez certainly looked as if there was another gloveman threatening. Etc etc. Santi? A nice goal and better than some … without standing out particularly.
No, too early to book a venue for title-winning celebrations. But we’ve now won the last two trophies on offer in England, so a third or even a fourth isn’t as unlikely as the pundits are forecasting for the new season.
And I’m expecting a much better season from Mesut. I think he owes us one.
Öskar
A very measured and polished response Oskar….. well played sir.
the Bait (santi cazorla) was ready to reel in the big fish, but alas no luck on this occasion….as the big fish was full on a bountiful meal of citeh served on a platter for all.
I want to be very wrong about Sanago but I think he needs to improve massively. At the moment I just don’t see that he has it at this level.
I agree about Shezza although I think he needs games. I don’t think that playing behind an all new defence helped. I’m sure with some game time he will be fine.
I still think we need three in to be truly competitive this season.
Steve, Shezza never seems to look totally confident even when the backline is rock solid.
The most notable area he seems to lack total confidence in, is when he starts to come out, then changes his mind and goes back and gets caught in no mans land…
However it is interesting that many on here believe he was/ is the best keeper in the EPL?
Just finished back drinking on a day that began early with Arsenal (7:00 am local time) and just finished a short time ago with my second favorite team, the Seattle Sounders, in a scrappy (lucky?) win over Houston.
Not much to add to the above comments other than I still think Sanogo looks like an young uncoordinated giraffe, albeit one who managed two assists today and four into the back of the net last weekend. I’m beginning to think there might be a good player in that pile of flailing limbs!
Can’t wait for the start of the season next week.
CoR – congrats on your marriage!
COYG!!!
Was lucky enough to see Juventus play a friendly match in Sydney Olympic park last night against an Australian A league all stars, just prior to the Arsenal kick off.
Could not believe how good and how big Paul Pogba was then watching this young man playing Live. that guy truly is a man mountain as far as football players go
what a talent and find it hard to understand why UTD let him go or how they managed to let him go….
aussie – I agree and disagree with you on Shezza. I think he oozes confidence but I think his tendency to start to come out then change his mind is more a factor of inexperience in reading the flight of the ball. Hopefully with the challenge from Ospina, he will work harder on reading crosses and continue to improve. If not, then maybe we will have a new number 1 by the end of the season.
aussie – Pogba is definitely a soon to be dominating player. I think Manure let him go because they had been scouting Fellaini for several years and wanted someone with more experience… *belly laugh* 🙂
quite unbelievable ecg – what a mistake all round…
classic fergie ego…..
no one can have a bigger ego than fergo in that squad.
Pogba was quite amazing to see live in action…
wow what a player.
we didn’t even notice Pirlo was on the pitch as this kid stole the show.
Big, strong, fast, tough, skilful and scored the winning goal with a power shot from outside the 18 yard box….
Morning all.
Fine way to spend the Sunday before the season restarts.
We should make a habit of it……again.
Aussie. I think the one thing in recent years that let Shezza down was his decision making. However I thought that was one thing that greatly improved last season. I don’t think there are many better around.
A note of caution
http://233livenews.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/david-moyes-community-shield.jpg
I am glad Ospina is here none the less and Martinez.
Both good hands there.
On other subjects – Puma must be bloody happy.
Trophy in first month of new sponsorship !
Good contract deal I would have thought.
Congrats cor always remember happy wife happy life 😉
There’s a problem with those Puma shirts, they do NOT fit regular people! Judging by what i see so far.
Maybe it’s part of their marketing strategy, you gots to buy 2 or 3 and stitch ’em together before you can make a sleeve.
Arsenal should have got more for that deal!
😀
——–
Some Trivia :
Sanchez’s nickname in his impoverished youth in Chile was “the Squirrel”. No tree, apparently, was too high for him to climb to retrieve his precious football.
“Without football, I’d be pushing a wheelbarrow around on a building site,” .
who’s bored of all this trophys now? 😉 with a trophy here.. and a trophy there..here a-trophy, there a-trophy every-where a trophy trophy..Ol’ Mac Arsene had a Team hiya hiya hoo..http://gidigooner.blogspot.com/2014/08/charity-shield-review-arsenal-3mancity.html
Nice one Maestro.
A great day out featuring the delights of Harrow-on-the-Hill, Wembley & The Tollie.
Only the pre-match weather and the awful Wembley PA put a slight dampener on very pleasing events.
Watching Alexis for the second time, it’s clear to me he’s everything we’ve been missing. Pace, power, movement, link-up play. Once he gets a few goals under his belt we can safely say that he really is Suarez without the mental issues.
Should be a cracking season assuming a defensive bolster or two are on their way before the TW shuts.
UTA!
BB 95
🙂
Assist!
ping
*takes the ball off Szczesny until he learns how to distribute properly*
As rightly said by the boss, it was a game we did not want to lose and so it proved. Imagine the headlines today- Arsenal lose the only realistic chance of winning a trophy. Arsenal lose even in a charity shield game to city.
We won and did so on some style. The first half was one of the best pre season performances we can wish to see. So simple, yet so mesmeric. Jack for one had an excellent half but sadly the boy again in the second half, held on to the ball too long was guilty of giving it away.
Chambers though was terrific bar one moment towards the end of the game when his pass was a bit short. My sincere hope is that he is not over played. He will get exhausted playing at the highest level and i pray that is not the case.
Santi yet again showed his class, i hope he is not going anywhere. Ramsey absolutely brilliant, i mean he is so fit. Again whenever i see him, i just hope he stays fit and he is rotated once in a while atleast because its so tough to see a team without him.
Alexis is still not match fit but boy he does have an aura about him, defenders are scared to go to near him for he may just make them look silly. He and Theo running on to Ozil and Santi’s passes will be a sight for sore eyes.
Puma, Mikel and new season start has been promising. I still feel we need a DM and a CB, i think striker will be a bonus but the other 2 are absolute necessaries.
Well for the whiners, we now 2 trophies 3 months, beat that.
Lastly, nasri said we are stupid. Flash news Samir, Deschamp apparently has said you can try in the french women’s national team, go on try, i doubt you will get through for they dont do rats like you there as well.
One more thing worth mentioning is we have the Puma home and away kit launch here in Bangalore tomorrow. We have the man himself, Freddie Ljunberg coming over and walk us through the tunnel of Arsenal history before unveiling the kit officially, all though most of us have already got the home jerseys by now.
I do intend to ask him if i get the chance- what was better, the 13 game run to win the league, the invincibles season or that goal at wembley when he shrugs of a certain terry and curls it past cudicini, Freddie o freddie, cant wait for tomorrow.
Well that was fun wasn’t it 🙂 Saying that I tend not to get to excited or to down over pre season games they are just a warm up for the bigger things ahead – A few little notes tho, This is the most excited ive been for a long time in what lies ahead, We have a verve about us and an attacking threat which we haven’t seen in a while – Weve added that all important quality – Pace. Add that to Girouds hold up play and we could see the Goals rain in especially if Giroud converts some of Debuchys crosses which im sure he will.
Weve also got the added bonus that teams will be shit scared of pushing high up the pitch to close the midfield down now as one ball over the top and they are split further open than Jordans Legs, Will hopefully put a stop to teams crowding us out early on in games, and should leave us to get a foothold early on – No more 6-0 drubbings at Chelsea.
On the downside although we won and won well yesterday im still concerned about our positional awareness. At times we were all over the shop with regards leaving space for the other team to exploit – We still badly need a back up Centrehalf and A Dm with the positional awareness to cover the space left exposed.
Not sure we are quite there yet even if we fill the two above positions, And it may take a season or two to really challenge for the big ones, but make no bones about it we are back and in a big way – The Future looks Bright and Red and White, Lets get it on !
Up The Arse.
Great read Vinay
And very Lucky to meet Freddie.
Truly one of the best
Hope it goes well and would like to hear his answer
congratulations CoR
all the best to you and Mrs CoR
As I sit here tonight after our community shield win I find myself wondering why such an unimportant trophy seems To have made such an impact on me.
I couldn’t seem to concentrate on much else today at work and did bugger all to be honest, except Look up arsenal stuff and enjoyed reading every piece of news and images I could find that showed the celebrations and trophy hoisting by the players.
As I tried to put the victory in some perspective I of course realised that this was not a more important trophy then the recent FA cup, but yet it feels so much more important to me as a simple single arsenal fan based in far away australia, a long way from London and all things arsenal.
I enjoyed the whole match so much more because the players seemed to know they played so well and seemed to believe in themselves with a quiet confidence, as if they knew they would play well.
When Ozil came to the club it seemed to spur on the team for a while, but it was like the whole team rested on his shoulders alone.
Now we have alexis and it already seems like he understands the responsibility of sharing the star billing load with mesut.
Aaron also seems to be massively stepping up also realising the responsibility he has to share the load as a not so young gun now who also seems to have a quiet inner confidence and belief.
I enjoyed watching images of the team such as OG give alexis a massive man hug after the match as if to say, forwards and brothers in arms going forward and welcome alexis, glad to have you on board.
We have the new young gun in chambers who is just so cool and calm, it is like he has been here for years, yet he’s been here for only weeks.
We have debuchy who came into the team with little fanfare or excitement and to be honest most were just ho-hum about his signing including myself, but after today, I can’t believe what an individually great job he did for the team, yet also only been here weeks.
But something feels a bit different about this win, about this season already and it has not even started.
Something feels different about this newly assembled squad, that is also kind of not all new as there are plenty of regular faces who have had various levels of good and bad days in recent seasons.
Why do they even seem different today or a bit more special.
Nacho monreal played with so much confidence and belief, for a moment I forgot he is not even our regular central defender.
I can’t quite put my finger on the reason of why today felt so different. We seemed to play with belief and a quiet confidence as a team.
Even the way Arsene was simply smiling during the celebrations seemed to have a smile As if he also knew something special just happened to this team or as if he had also known for a while this has been coming.
After all They just dominated one of the big world powers in football and they seemed to do it with quiet belief and 100% commitment as if they all knew.
Or maybe it was just me who has regained a bit of belief in Arsenal again today, that may have been a tad lost in recent years as we have struggled beating some of the top 6 teams on a regular basis.
Whatever Arsene and the team did yesterday, it meant a lot to me for some reason and I really enjoyed the arsenal experience again and the arsenal football style again and the arsenal players again and I enjoyed watching arsene winning again.
I felt a lot of arsenal pride again today as if this was finally the turning point for the new arsenal, that has just been waiting for the next phase of the future of the club, and maybe a bit like a turning point for me too as an arsenal supporter.
Whatever it was or is that made this most unimportant of wins seem so special to me, I am enjoying it very much.
Thanks to Holic and this bar for giving me somewhere to pen my thoughts on arsenal today.
Well said Aussie, an enjoyable read, paragraphs or not 😉
What Wind said.
And well in TS!
CoR: おめでとうございます。末永くお幸せに。
What Wind said @108.
Brilliant read Aussie or should i say mate.
Felt wonderful because you can see the happiness and bonding in the team. They would felt the pain as much if not more and now when we are seeing the sheer happiness, its just wonderful.
Yes this maybe false dawn, we still may not win anything this season but then its always not about winning or losing. It is about us, its about our Arsenal and its about our sense of oneness that nothing else apart from family will give.
So to the Gunners, here is wishing them a great season ahead and may it culminate in a trophy or 2 and if it doesnt, there is always the next season. In Arsenal we trust.
Happy Monday holics!
Cor and Corrette,
Congratulations! Raises her glass and smiles. Wishing you both a lifetime of precious memories xx
Solid Gooner, Thank you. You are too kind!
It’s interesting to read all the different opinions of Sanogo. I wonder if it’s all part of Le Boss’s plan. Maybe he is the ‘ghost in the machine’. If we are all confused, I bet he confuses opposition defense similarly. If he doesn’t get his shots on target, the giraffe-like gamboling legs and arms seem to end up in the right place and create space for others. Opposing teams don’t seem to know quite what he is up to and neither does anyone else! 🙂
Sorry to point out the obvious, but with Bacs and TV gone, Kos injured today and Per still on his holidays we will be facing Palace, and possibly the first CL qualifier against Besiktas, with a CD pairing of who exactly? The inexperienced Chambers and … Monreal? Hayden?? Miquel??? Ormonde-Ottewill????
Just askin’.
Öskar
Aussie@107,
That was really touching. You put your finger on the pulse many of us are feeling at this moment!
Vinay@103
Get pictures! 🙂
ecg@85: “Sanogo looks like an young uncoordinated giraffe.” 🙂
You “regained a bit of belief in Arsenal again today”, Aussie? You should never have lost it man. Call yourself a Gooner??
Still, nice to have you back among us hard-core, loyal, faithful, never waivering followers of the cause. Don’t ever think about backsliding again!
Öskar
ecg@85
Mate, Very happy with your likening Sanogo to a young giraffe!
And your darn tooting right about there being a player in him.
He is the opposite of our Theo, in style, for sure. No Fred Astaire!
But pleasing to the eye, none the less 😉
nice one aussie
Better a young uncoordinated giraffe, Ned, than the young, uncoordinated gaffe that was TGSTEL I’m thinking. 😉
Öskar
now
behave oskar 122
picking on that poor wee shrinking bendy violet
ya big bully
🙂
2.30am here in Kiwiland, cba, and I am far too pissed to be behaving. Time for me kip I’m thinking. How’s the spelling? I’m not focusing too well… hick!
Well done the boyo from Hollywood, three shots behind with 9 to play and takes a two shot lead down the 18th. It’s golf I’ve drifted into here, and young Rory winning his 4th major …. just brilliant to watch this morning.
Did you know I gave my daughter an Irish name? Two in fact … Tara Christie, me being a Chris in the unvirtual world.
But time for the bed, if I can move the dog, Oskar himself, off it.
Night all.
Öskar
Thought long and hard about whether it is better to win the Community Shield or to lose it claiming that you fielded a “much weakened side.” All this consideration involved diverse factors including psychology, honor, achievement, pride, and of course karma.
Conclusion: It is better to win. 🙂
Well said bt8.
The amount of bile and sour grapes from Mancs doing the rounds on the usual platforms this morning is, well…I was going to say ‘ridiculous’ but then I remembered I’m not surprised at all. Explaining failures away with flimsy excuses, and sneering at those who succeed, are very much the modus operandi of most football fans – or is it that the voices that shout loudest are the most spiteful?
Empty vessels and all that.
g’night oskar
🙂
Oops, Barca.
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28739152
Wow… Barca must want Vermaelen really bad.
BB @ 129: Other than chasing after big names, Barca hierarchy quite frequently doesn’t know what they want. Some of their decision making fiascos over the years have been hilarious … not being able to hold on to Ronaldo after a phenomenal season, buying Ibra for Eto’o and 70 odd million quids etc. etc. They didn’t need Cesc and gave in to the sentimental demands, and they never had any use for Song. 🙂
I think TV5 once fit would be a good solution for that Puyol-shaped hole in their defense.
Well I do hope that we get a proper replacement for Vermy, otherwise once Kos or Mert gets injured and they will, we’re in trouble.
Unless of course Chambers can be a quick learner, but he looks more suited for a DM role to me…!
BB@131: Irrespective of whatever rapid growth plan Chambers might successfully follow we would absolutely need at least another defensive player. Arsene is talking about a versatile enough player who can cover DM and CB, but I think the safer option would be to get one CB and one defensive minded but versatile enough midfield player.
Doc,
Will wholeheartedly agree with you that the ideal solution would be to get a DM and CB.
Methinks that Arsene got Chambers to play him and not actually sit on the bench, as to reports that Kos is injured, that plan might just be accelerated.
Hence my best guess is Arsene will buy only a CB if he can get one he deems ‘quality’, last word is he’s working on it now. He’s more than willing to wait it out too it seems.
Other than that i do not foresee anymore developments, but I would be happy to be proven wrong though!
😀
The home match against Palace would be Giroud’s 100th for us. 40 goals and 20 assists in 99 matches so far.
The next challenge for him is to score more consistently against the very best defenses. And I think the rest and squad rotation facilitated by our recent acquisitions and developments would actually help him play much better. The crosses from Debuchy and fast wing plays from Alexis and Theo would help as well.
Song for Danish Gooner that I hadn’t listed to in years.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPHaN20om_U
What a different world it was back then. 🙁
oskar 124
wi names like that
yer daughter coulda been at Italia 90
for Big Jack and us
indeed
more qualified than several 😉
.
aye golf
fair play to young rory
he’s a bit handy
if there’s one thing the north of ireland
does well on the world stage
it’s golf
well
that and wee wirey boxers and sectarianism
indeed
it’s
a legion of featherweight golfing bigots
form the majority
of
the tourist board’s newest campaign
😉
the posters should be brilliant
When i think about our squad and how well we played against the oilers, seemed to forget that we have not even had these guys back in the team! : http://www.standard.co.uk/incoming/article9662535.ece/alternates/w620/Walcott.jpg
Oh good times ahead i tells ya!
😀
Heh @ cba @ 136
What’s the ‘Hand of God’ doing nowadays?!?!! :
http://thebiglead.com/2014/08/11/diego-maradona-slapped-a-journalist-in-the-face-for-allegedly-winking-at-his-ex-wife/
😀
Congrats CoR! That cake is killer.
Interesting stat on OG Dr. F. OG gets so much more stick than he deserves. Though I’ve always thought that he could/must improve his goal tally. Still – his numbers are actually quite decent. (goals + assists).
C’mon OG – take it to the next level!
Sanogo is going to be great. He has all the ingredients needed to became one of the best strikers in the PL.
He is faster then Costa, stronger then RvP, much better build up play then Lukaku, taller then Aguero, better positioning then Dzeko, exploits the channels better then most of the strikers in the PL.
He needs to work on his shooting, though.
Interesting thing is that many seems to forget that the young man spent large portions of the last 2 years injured, so if that can be used as an excuse for Wilshere’s poor form last season, can be used in Sanogo’s too.
Nice one, Aussie @107.
If I may, I think that indefinable quality you’re trying to describe is something that is quite well known to those of us who live a lot closer to London and the Arsenal, and are lucky enough to be there week in, week out, come good or bad, smelling the atmosphere, feeling the cold dark winter evenings, and lookung for something to cling to in the face of impossible enemy financial clout.
It boils down to pride.
Pride in a club that has insisted on doing things the right way.
Pride in a club that has had a vision and, thanks to an incredible manager, has had the ability to see it through to fruition.
Pride that some truly world class players are now saying that they themselves are proud to be at such a great club.
We lucky ones have been there to see the glimpses and promises of a better future. Time and again those glimpses have evapourated and left only a stain of disappointment. But still we would rather have failed than bought success with someone else’s money. Those are the experiences that lend some of us the “boring endless perspective” with which we try to view events. Because we have had to,
We still can’t match the ridiculous spending power of some but we are, through skill and management, beginning to be able to properly compete again.
Imagine what that first League title or Champions League win is going to feel like in the face of the financially doped. The Szczesnys, Oxes, Wisheres, Ramseys, Walcotts, and even The Jenkses, allied to the Özils, Mertesackers and Alexises …….
There will be some choked up Gooners that day.
That’s pride, mate. 😉
Congrats to CoR too. Brave man. 😉
Lars,
As FFP guru, can you tell me how much Man City are allowed to spend in this summer of financial restrictions ?
They now have Fernando for £12 million, Mangala has just joined for around £30 million, and Frank Lampard has cost them $100 million on loan via New York City FC.
Some restriction …..
Aussie @ 107 and Trev @ 142 – Nail. Head. Nice work.
Speaking of pride, one of the things that has changed for me over the past couple of years or so, is that it seems the players are also proud to be part of Arsenal. From Jenks with his Arsenal bedroom, the BFG saying it is a dream to be playing for Arsenal, Giroud with his support of teammates when they score, to the pure joy of Rambo when he has a good assist or scores, the players clearly enjoy playing for Arsenal. And in my opinion, one man is responsible for that attitude, Mr. Arsene Wenger.
And I just re-read Trev’s post @ 142 and saw the whole player-pride thing. So my comment is just an expansion of Trev’s concisely worded sentence. 🙂
Trev @ #142
Can I stop saluting yet? Great words. Pride of London…. and perhaps foolishly I believe that several in our team even feel that way now too.
UTA!
Cheers TS – i actually think they do too.
Cheers, ecg.
Sanogo is going to be great….
“He is faster then Costa, stronger then RvP, much better build up play then Lukaku, taller then Aguero, better positioning then Dzeko, exploits the channels better then most of the strikers in the PL.” …….. But couldn’t hit a cow’s arse with a banjo????
Not sure how that works for a striker. I would love him to make it but at the moment I just don’t see it. I also don’t see him even making the bench if everyone is fit. I think he needs a l
….. A loan to get games under his belt to see what he can do.
Trev, Aussie, great stuff. Pride in our club is what it’s all about. It is in the blood. There is nothing you can do about it. As I have had to remind Mrs T on occasions, I was in love with Arsenal a long time before I met her…… Oh yeah, Many congrats CoR.
🙂
That was fun. The match was played a little slower than I remember these serving plate affairs of old, but it will do. Can’t quibble with a handsome 3 nil, a squad bubbling up nicely and three weeks left for Arsene and BIG Ivan to put the final touches to it.
We still look well short of fit in lots of spots, but that will just spice up the next two weeks a bit. Wouldn’t it be lovely if we could get ourselves to 9 league points after 2 tough away fixtures before having another pop at those Shitty Sheiks? Praise be for the return of serious football.
Transfers… I’m having my punt on 2 out, 2/3 in, with one being a striker. My guess is a striker and a defender. I’d be very excited to see Gnarby go out on loan, if he could play 25/30 Prem games this year that would be fun viewing.
Forward
Trev, as far as I know they have no limits on what they spend on transfer fees. What they are not allowed to do is increase the total wages in the squad.
Want to make a bet Steve T?
I win if Sanogo scores 15+ goals in all competitions this season, you win if he doesn’t. The bet is on if he manages to stay fit for most of the season.
Lars – I think City has a net 49 mil transfer fee limit.
15 goals a season from our second choice striker in all competitions???? That does not bode well for a title challenge I would suggest.
Thanks for the offer but I won’t take the bet purely because to win it would require an Arsenal player to fail. That I can’t do.
I would love to see him come good and make it. However, at the moment I have seen very little that makes me think he has got what it takes. I hope he is a work in progress I really do. That is why I think he needs a loan spell. To actually play regularly.
The 5 strikers you list in comparison are streets ahead of Sanogo at the moment. I would have welcomed any one of them this summer.
“Sagna’s WAG Ludivine ready to tour Manchester” Daily Mail
Well, that should take just under an hour! 🙂
I’m with Lurky on Sanogo; if he manages to stay fit, which I think he will do, he will get goals. It might not be up to 15 but I won’t be surprised if he gets up to 15.
I don’t think he needs to go out on loan, I think he is a very delicate project that needs to develop under the watchful eyes of Arsene and his staff. I think Arsene thinks the same too.
He is clearly our 2nd choice in the lone striker upfront department and if you know and understand Arsene and his approach to this things you will know we won’t be signing any more forwards inside this window except someone picks up a season ending injury.
cheers to all.. (and fair call too Oskar)
Trev, great summary of the seemingly indefinable
you guys truly are the chosen ones to see the arse week in week out, win lose or draw, rain hail or sunshine.
For me this week being able to watch Juventus with their near full squad only 20 mins from my home in Sydney, my first thought was this is what some Arsenal fans get to do every week.
even better after meeting at the tollie and post match back there togeather… nice
Anyway, us O/S supporters we are lucky enough to get the feeling of the matchday experience and the week through this bar, hence why it is so important to so many.
and the news gets even better for us down under today.
breaking news hot off the presser is the Arsenal are red hot favourites to play in Australia as part of next seasons pre season tour and play against the A league all stars.
now that would be a dream come true….
Peter@156 : Got ‘Holic’s email, expect a response soon.
Perhaps Arsenal could manage a game in Wellington if they do come Australia next year, Aussie. And hopefully any such tour will be more successful than their last trip Downunder in 1977 when several players (including Malcolm Macdonald and Alan Hudson from memory) had to be sent home for spending more time boozing than playing.
I went to the match played in Sydney during that tour and made the mistake of taking the then wife. Most of the time was spent shielding her from louts fighting in the seats behind us. Bodies flying everywhere, buckets of blood spilt, police in large numbers. Wife wanted to go home before the game finished ffs!
Öskar
thought nothing could bring me down from my arsenal-induced cloud of satisfaction from yesterday’s win.
but robin williams committing suicide…well, fuck. rest in peace, robin.
http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Robin-Williams-dead-in-suspected-suicide-5682190.php
scruz knows. Rest in peace, Robin Williams.
Very sad news. Robin Williams was a comic genius. RIP.
Oskar. I heard the insurance company would not support a trip down under due to the risk of “aggressive kangaroos,” nightmares featuring psychotic mothers screaming “the dingo took my baby” and the like. 😉
But was he a gooner?
Öskar
PS: every time I type gooner spell check automatically changes it to ‘goner’. For once spell check could have been considered correct!
Pfft, bt8 … of the ten most poisonous snakes on the planet Aussie has ten of them, plus the most dangerous spiders, jelly fish, stone fish and sundry other horrors. And you can include the women in that.
It’s a man’s country where even prime ministers go swimming in the surf never to be seen again. I suggest Arsenal go somewhere safer … Ukraine for example, or Congo?
Öskar
Yeah, sad news about robin Williams. Brilliant.
Oskay – ” … and sundry other horrors. And you can include the women in that.”
That was hilarious. Big LoL!
Opps, sorry. “Oskar”.
Aussie @107
As another Arsenal fan down under, you summed up the feelings well.
I did not watch it live on Setenta , as tried to convince myself it was only a ‘friendly’. Did copy it to watch last night.However got up just into the second half for match…cannot sleep knowing they are on live!.
There never is just a friendly for Arsenal……
Impressed with Sanchez,Chambers, Debuchy….looks good for the future.
I still think Sanogo is an asset, causes defences plenty of concerns.
he will be a star,can feel in in my sav blanc.
Us down under love the gunners as much as the locals in uk.
i had 29 years in uk before coming to Aus, and first game was in early 1960’s so a lot of history(same gen as holic).
I feel excited about this season more so than for quite a few years..
re: Sanogo getting 15 or more goals this season, here are the stats by season for the past 10 seasons of every one of our players who have scored at least 15 times:
2013/14 Giroud (16)
2012/13 none
2011/12 van Persie (30)
2010/11 van Persie (18)
2009/10 Fabregas (15)
2008/09 none
2007/08 Adebayor (24)
2006/07 none
2005/06 Henry (27)
2004/05 Henry (25)
You have to go back to 2002/03 for a season in which we had more than one player scoring 15 or more goals.
Cheers Sydneyred.
Agree nothing like watching live even though we endure some very early mornings or very late nights to do so.
That is certainly commitment of a different kind…
Hope you enjoyed your recent birthday celebrations and enjoyed the aussie Sav Blanc ( not the NZ) type.
Good to see our clever Ruse to keep out the tourists is working.
Oskar has well described our scary wildlife that roams wild in all the cities especially near our beaches and BBQ’s.
Oskar- our prime ministers are also famous for sculling schooners at the cricket and shouting the locals after famous test match victories against NZ or England.
They are also famous for declaring any boss a bum who does not allow staff a days off work with a hangover from any treating sporting victory such as the Americas cup.
We do love sport…
NBN@ 170: Interesting stats that can be interpreted as good (many players sharing the scoring burden) or as bad (not enough top class goal scorers in the team). I guess both of which have been true in our case especially in recent years.
NBN, also a request for you if I may: what is the comparative goal/assist record after 100 games for key Arsenal strikers who started playing in Arsene era? Homer and I were earlier discussing about Giroud’s solid if unspectacular record of 40+20 after 99 games. Wondering what it was for RVP or Ade or Henry.
Apropos to Lurky’s confident comments, I share his enthusiasm about Sanogo, and his observations regarding all the things Sanogo does well. Add it to the fact that he has been quite the goalscoring machine in the various underage level (rather phenomenal goal/game ratios whenever he stayed fit) so everything put together it augurs well. But I don’t share his absolute confidence. There are two distinct steps of increasing difficulty for Sanogo to cross to become successful: a. Start scoring goals in PL and b. Once he does that and the opposition defenses specifically plan against him and studies his game still continue scoring consistently. I think (a) will happen soon enough, but then we don’t have any parameters yet to determine how he would step up for (b).
Dr F: the point the stats were making about Steve T and others’ bet on Sanogo getting 15 goals was that if he is to make 15 then others, especially Giroud, would not be likely to be scoring that often. Were I a betting man, which I am not, I would peg Giroud to score more goals than Sanogo this season. Thus it is going to be tough for Sanogo to get 15. (And I am only asking for 10% of whoever wins the bet’s winnings — to be paid in liquid form distribute among the bar in the time honoured manor. )
As for your specific request, I am looking at a lot of grumpy looking monks. But if I can find the cattle prod, they might be induced to get you some numbers, at least for the quartet you mention. I do, however, remember them running some numbers last season that showed that Giroud was ahead of RvP in goals scored at a comparable stage of their Arsenal careers.
And not just “famous for sculling schooners at the cricket”, Aussie. That larrikin Australian prime minister Bob Hawke was in the Guinness Book of Records for his world record downing of a yard of ale while on a Rhodes scholarship at Oxford University. Sadly his record was later eclipsed by the English gourmand Peter Dowdeswell, holder of literally hundreds of eating and drinking world records.
Öskar
Dr F: Quick and dirty:
Henry after first 93 games: 46 goals, 2 assists
Giroud after first 98 games 39 goals, 24 assists
van Persie after first 106 games: 33 goals, 7 assists
Adebayor after first 107 games: 46 goals, 16 assists
which gives run rates after first 99 games of:
Henry 49 goals/2 assists
Adebayor 43 goals/15 assists
Giroud 39 goals/24 assists
van Persie 31 goals/7 assists
all of which shows Giroud’s overall value to the team and that he plays a different role to out-and-out strikers like TH14 and RvP.
Why is that larrikin is only used to describe Australians?
Sanogo 15 goals? In his dreams. 5-10 max would be closer. He simply won’t get the opportunities. But it would be good to see multiple scorers in the side for a change. Man $hitty had three players scoring more than 20 last season. No reason why OG and Alexis can’t be two, and Theo if he stays fit could make it three. I think Rambo will get much closer attention this time, so will be lucky to get another 16, imo. I hope he proves me wrong.
Öskar
Larrikin used to be a derogatory appellation, Ned, meaning someone with criminal tendencies. Aussies have this habit of using words to mean their diametrical opposite. ‘Bastard’, for example, is now a term of affection. As is larrikin.
Öskar
Methinks Giroud would get 30 goals before Sanogo gets 20!
What about Campbell then? It seems we have a striker selection problem once Theo comes back on the flanks!
Good Times!
😀
Oh captain my captain… RIP Robin Williams.
NBN @ 176: Thanks a lot. I had guessed the pattern along these lines, didn’t remember Ade’s numbers would be that high.
Would Giroud be a hundred goals striker for us? I think this season would tell us about how much he can push his game further and whether he is someone who would be around at least for a couple of more seasons after that.
BB@180: I have an intuition — that is the only way I can say it, nothing concrete to prove — that we would use Campbell to make weight for a deal somewhere before the window closes. The guy is an unquestionable talent, has excellent attitude, he needs to play regularly and even though I would love him to make it with us this season I think Arsene would try to weigh in the relatively less opportunities he would get with us which might hinder his progress. I could be wrong though and Theo still at least a month away to match fitness we might not let him leave (loans) at least before the January window. If he stays I am sure Arsene would give him enough chance to prove himself.
Ned and others. Two points.
If Giroud is out injured for 3 months are you confident that Sanago can lead a title charge? Having seen him play several times and taking note of his current scoring record my initial thoughts are not good.
As good as Giroud is the fact is that We don’t have a world class striker like RVP or Henry to lead the line. Giroud brings an awful lot to the table but I don’t ever see him as an Henry or RVP.
DocFaust,
Methinks that Sanogo needs to work on his speed if he wants to be the very best, he just seems lacking there but that is not surprising considering he’s still young and you are absolutely right, he needs games!
Campbell can play as a winger and striker which gives us more versatility but Sanogo fits more into the mould of Giroud which is a better fit for us. Difficult choice if one or the other is to go on loan.
I say we keep em both but play them exclusively in the league and FA cup competitions, give Giroud a rest there.
😀
Daily Star (yeah, yeah) saying that Koscielny picked up an Achilles injury and is a “HUGE doubt” for the weekend’s game. It is in capitals in the tit-rag, so it must be true. Chambers and Monreal to take on the might of Maroune’s Men? Eeek.
On the Giroud stats per 99 games listed above, worth noting he is 6/7/8 years older than those other players when they started out for us. This is as good as Giroud gets you’d figure and he arrived as an international. The others were all learning their trade when they put those numbers up.
I think Giroud is decent and would be a superb squad player in tandem with a “super quality” striker, but until he does less of this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DC9YSarNzA
And this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBPpvWgzsNE
In big games when we really need a goal he worries me. Great when the pressure is off, but never shows up when the stakes are high. (The 1-0 at home to the scum last season the only exception I can think of. And they are shit anyway.)
Forward
Ps: Sonogo 15 goals? Pfft. No chance. Boy has 14 competitive goals in his career so far. Only 1 of those came in the French top flight, the rest split between lower leagues and U20 internationals. Arsene was being a bit naughty with the facts when he spoke about his “frightening” goals record pre-injury, unless he meant Emile Heskey frightening.
El Puno, you are up for a bet then on Sanogo?
If you win I will never drink in this bar again.
If I win, every single post of yours in this bar will start with the:
King Lurky you are by far the Greatest One and I kiss your feet.
Deal?
Ned: you did slightly misread what Lurky said, he said all competitions which would change your list a bit. If I am not mistaken, all of Giroud, Podolski and Walcott managed 15 in all competitions in 2012/13 and maybe also Cazorla (I know he scored more than 10 in the league at least). And didn’t Ramsey get 15+ in all comps last season?
Steve T: first of all, let me just say I agree with you that I doubt (and really hope I will be pleasantly surprised on that count!) Sanogo can get 15 goals this season and I would not feel confident with him leading the line for any extended period of time. However, I’m not at all sure he would be first in line to take over the central striker role should Giroud get injured. It could just as well be Alexis, I think. We could, for example, play Poldi-Alexis-Theo as a front three. Should we want to rest Alexis then we’d play Sanogo. And we did after all beat Liverpool in the cup with Poldi-Sanogo-Chamberlain as the front three so at least we know it can certainly work in individual games.
Also, hopefully Sanogo can be used to be subbed on for Giroud a bit more this season to give the latter a slightly lighter overall workload. Playing 75 minutes instead of 90 is, after all, a rather big difference as
Oops, managed to post prematurely there 🙂
“…a rather big difference as by far the biggest strain on the body comes after about 70 minutes.”
Ned@177- I believe Oskar has clearly and articulately described the typical larrikin aussie character and spirit in one.
A beer guzzling, cricket playing RHODES scholar.
Would not be too many of them around I would have thought.
Dime a dozen in AUS.
Very well done Oskar..
May god rest the soul of Sir Robin Williams – Nanoo Nanoo!
Mork and Mindy!… 🙁
Trev @ 142 – superb post, mate. Should be in lights.
That day will be a wonderful day and you might even be persuaded to have a second pint! 🙂
Sad news on Robin Williams. Funny and talented man.
Bloody cold & wet in sydney tonight
Fire on
White in hanhave a good day all gooners in uk
Had chance to go to all stars / jutventus game on Sunday
Said no as really can’t get exited about other teams
Only go to see the socceroos with my son
He at 12 is now into his 7 the season playing soccer
Cannot understand why dad calls him viera
Lurky @186 – Up for a bet along those lines. Don’t see any sense in your not posting again, how about a like-for-like. (Maybe we can do this for a month, rather than in perpetuity?) If I win, you start our posts with:
“Commandante El Puno, son of BIG Ivan, doyen of the transfer tattle, we salute you.”
Deal? 🙂
186 – Would be a bet I would be very, very happy to lose I should add. If BIG Yaya goes for 15 goals we might just add the Carling Cup to our treble elsewhere 🙂
Lurky,
I agree with you on Sanogo’s potential, but like Lars and Steve, I think he needs more time. He’s a great prospect, but very raw.
Lars point on Alexis is very interesting and one I’d agree with. I think Alexis will be played in a central role as a main striker for some games. I can see Giroud being chosen for other games. But when it comes to playing the serious teams in Europe, I just don’t think that either Giroud or Sanogo have what it takes to play the lone striker role up front and make a real difference at the highest level. I would be glad to be wrong on that front. But I believe that if another top class striker becomes available in this window, that Wenger will buy him along with a DCM who can also provide cover at CH.
Hello all.
A fine win on Sunday that, cheers for the write up ‘holic, sir.
On a personal note, I had a terrible week. I had to say goodbye to my four legged friend, who was ravaged with tumors. He was still young (6 years) but I couldn’t stand to see him suffer anymore, a hard choice, but in the end you have to do what’s best for your pet.
In better news, only a few more sleeps until the big kick off. I’ve got my ticket for the Palace game and will be watching from the Clock End, together, once again, with my ‘holic brother, young Wind. I’ll be flying into London (Heathrow) around 7:30, so that should give me time to check in to the hotel, make a pitstop at The Amoury and arrive in time for first orders.
Hope to see as many of you as possible for follies and jollies under the Tollie Brolly.
Can hardly wait.
=======
Congratulations CoR and Mrs oR.
Ramsey-style lay-off .
Am I the only one who becomes disappointed when a potentially good 3 o clock game goes to TV after tickets go on sale?
Nanoo nanoo! 😉
Bang
See how disguised that pass back was Porco?
trev
excellent chest swelling 142
.
howdy h2h
tough to deal with indeed
.
El Puno and lurky: nice bet lads and good even contest from you both.
heres how I see the Spread of side bets:
Should lurky win then arsenal win and funny future postings for el puno and full bragging rights for lurky.
Should El Puno lose then arsenal win
A win win for arsenal there and full bragging rights for lurky also.
Should El Puno win then funny postings from lurky and good fun for us all in here with lurkys future posts…. And full bragging transfer rights for el puno.
El puno – brave call though as the (baby giraffe) if tou remember correctly he did just score 4 in his previous match after ably assisting 2 in his last match.
Enjoy lads and may the bet begin this weekend.
Howdy cba, it is indeed good sir, luckily the Arsenal are back to keep my mind occupied.
Good call on Trev’s post @142, sterling stuff.
203 – Good shit Aussie. Hope I lose and as ever, Arsene KNOWS, but this is robbery at even money 😉
You can get 9/1 Rambo scores the most Prem goals for Arsenal this season at the books. Looks decent.
h2h
countdown to a palace poundin’
gonna be a goodun indeed 🙂
excited already
the telly in for another shoutin’ at
and
here’s hopin the lads on the pitch
and the tollie eejits on the piss
fire wind’s blackberry’s imagination
😉
Sanogoooooooooooo
Boom.
Bugger.
See, told you. Couldn’t hit a cows arse with a banjo.
🙂
Have a good one, H2H, Wind, ‘Holic and every other person who will be privileged to be at the game on saturday.
Heh @ Steve T.
H2H- sorry to hear about your four legged friend.
Must have been tough.
Not easy to watch your pet/ mans best friend in pain like that.
steve T
🙂
cracker
el puno – we all hope you lose
Steve @208 (used to be RL when I were a lad, and not Ralph Lauren), I see you’ve transferred your angst from Fabianski to Sanogo!
It’s got to go somewhere I suppose.
I’m hoping that Bambi learns how to run like a stag this season and I do see promising signs over the last few months that he will add in a very positive way to our attacking variations.
Limbering up here. You up on Saturday?
El – the smiley face thingy did not appear at the end of that reply to display my attempt at happy mirth in your direction.
U don’t have much luck with those smiley things at making them stick on the post
Nor do I have much luck with auto spell check on my I devices.
Apologies for appalling grammar.
H2H my condolescences on the demise of the mongrel.
Bon voyage and many happy returns for you and others attending the “Palace pounding” this weekend, and apologies to cba for the reuse of a copyrighted phrase but as they say plagiarism is the sincerest form of flattery. 😉 Besides, attributed plagiarism is not the same as unattributed plagiarism, or so my English teacher (that would be the equivalent of your Irish teacher I suppose) once told me. 🙂
condolescences = condolences
(just to avoid one fewer grammatical error in a drink including the phrase “English teacher” and a really bad definition of plagiarism)
I think a large dose of pre-match lubrication and bonhomie is a certainty on Saturday along with a second post-match dose of variable quantity coloured by the events in between.
However I am disinclined to predict a ‘poundin”. Pulis is a wily opponent and will have his Palace team working on such weaknesses as he has identified. I am confident that young Calum will be faced with a physical and psychological challenge that is close to if not beyond the letters of the laws. I will be happier to see him paired with Kos than with Nacho.
Palace will be primed to sit deep allowing us lots of possession and aiming to dispossess out dribblers on the edge of their box (LJW and Sanchez were both at fault seeral times v $hitteh) to hit us with speedy breaks with runners exploiting the space behind whichever (or both) fullbacks are in line with our attackers.
We will need to be at our best both offensively and defensively as this is now a different Palace to that faced last season. Mikel needs to have a big game.
I’ll take any type of win but won’t relax unless we are at least 3-0 up at half time.
COYRs.
OtD and others: Thanks for the explanation about larrikins. They sound so playful. Perhaps beer guzzling, cricket playing Rhodes scholars are.
Steve T: While I think Sanogo is a prospect, I wouldn’t for one minute suggest he could replace Giroud for three months in a pinch and we wouldn’t notice the difference. Thankfully, we now have options in case of that eventuality in Sanchez, Theo, even Poldi, as well as Sanogo. My first set of numbers @170 was intended to show how rare it is for us to have two strikers getting 15 goals each in a season and thus how unlikely it is that Sanogo will get that many, given that Giroud, Sanchez, Ramsey and Theo are all more likely candidates for scoring at least 15. And, believe me, I would be delighted if all five scored that many. The second set @176, requested by Dr F., shows, to me, that Giroud, with his mix of goals and assists, is a different sort of striker to pure finishers like Henry and van Persie. In his first 99 games, Giroud has provided as many assist as Henry, Adebayor and van Persie combined. I agree with you that he isn’t and probably never will be a Henry/van Persie quality finisher (El Puno makes a good point about his advanced aged compared to the other two), but the question is whether his combination of goals and assists makes him a world-class forward.
Lars: Fair point: The 15-in-a-seaon numbers were League goals. Ramsey got 16 in all comps last season.
NBN,
The wizard of stats you are indeed!
😀
8ball
spelling?
pffffttttt!!!!
if ye can’t career outta control
and wrap a few words round a lampost
what point is there pickin’ up a pencil
.
and bath
silly me sayin have a goodun
but
have a goodun !
say hello to all the tollie nutloops
from me –
a telly nutloop
.
all the best
.
THE ARSENAL!!!!!
oh fuckin yes
Afternoon Bath.
I have nothing at all against Sanago and I genuinely hope that he develops into a superstar. I just think he is a long way from that at the moment. If all are fit I don’t see him getting much game time and I think he would develop far quicker if he went out on loan and played regularly. I thought that not buying a top striker last year was a major error. We were clearly in the market for one. We got lucky because Ollie G stayed fit. But he looked exhausted at the end of he season.
I accept that there are others that could fill in if necessary but I am not sure that needs to happen. I would far rather see us bring in the quality we need and not resort to having to flog Ollie to death.
As for the Flapster???? He was just not good enough. Never was going to be good enough. Not his fault, he just wasn’t that good.
Oskar @179, re larrikin.
Surely everyone in Australia has criminal tendencies – that’s why they’re there ……. !? 😉
Bath, cba, H2H, thanks for the kind words.
And dead right, bath, re Crystal Pulis. No longer a soft touch
day spent
120 pt bottles homebrew stout filled
.
they benefit from bitta storage
6 months
found that out by accident
that was a happy find one christmas
.
anyhoo
.
pologies
case of one for me
one for the cupboard
.
big empty fermentin buckets
oy vey
place is like a fruit fly hoor house
wee flyin full stop cunts can ruin a whole batch too
.
“Avast, ye wee winged varlets”
People power, anyone?
http://www.arsenal.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=545239
lovely sentiment bt8
fubble is big business now
bums on seats an all that
increasingly different bums too
increasingly affluent bums
.
i have been on many marches
for things considerably more important
than ticket prices
and
in the main
marches count for fuck all
.
there’s several regulars in here
with more eloquence
who i’m sure will have a better word on this
Between marches, letter writing campaigns, and boycotts I’m sure the latter would be the most effective but also the most difficult to organize and to unify. It is a certainty though that there is a price level that is too high for fans to be able to afford, no matter their income, and that level seems to be getting closer and closer. What is the farthest thing from a boycott? Idle summer transfer speculation.
And, yes I plead guilty to having participated in idle summer transfer speculation on occasion but we all have bad habits we are trying to break. 🙂
in the same shower o shite
marches i was on
70s/80s
routes lined or finished
by cops and soldiers
machine gunned up to their teeth
but
when i moved to london
and saw my first police horse
at a game
in full armour
i thought – fuckin ell
this place is nuts
🙂
cba @ 206, these days the poor Blackberry rests with pride of place on whatever table is nearest where I’m staying, the messages come from my Sony Xperia Z1 or my laptop now… 😉
Cent @ 209, thanks mate, you put it all into perspective when it needs to be the most. I guess the people that leave matches early in a flippant manner, win, loss or draw don’t know any overseas Gooners or even worse, just don’t care or know about how lucky they themselves are. Hoping you can join us for a matchday sooner rather than later 🙂
Get Benedikt Höwedes Arsene ..come on!
😀
That Chambers fella is something else.
19 years old and playing with such confidence and vigor in the heart of the best defence in the world.
Un – fuckin’ – canny.
El Puno, the bet is on. It is going to be a good laughter either way. Hope you are here after next Tuesday when Sanogo scores his third of the season 🙂
Sorry to hear about your pet H2H.
SSY,
Chambers.. Arsene uncovered a gem here, exactly the versatile player in a position that we Need too!
Now let’s get Howedes!
😀
232
yer blackberry
it did you proud 😉
.
match reports?
matters not a jot
where they come from
studies permitting
pile ’em in
i read every drink here
but must admit
i don’t need told
what we lack
what we need
i have eyeballs meself
though
some of the financial stuff
and
eccentric advice for arsene
is drunk up by me big time
.
drunk-me-one sentence
Who’d a thunk it
.
whats interestin too
is what you crazy shower
get up to
cos
if ye werent all interesting gooners
ye wouldn’t be drinkin here
well, well. looks like our right side could be seriously fast, once theo gets back, and if bellerin needs to spell debuchy.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2723154/Arsenal-s-Theo-Walcott-40m-club-sprint-record-broken-Hector-Bellerin.html?ITO=1490&ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490
scruz – just saw that on arsenal.com. And when Theo is healthy, Alexis will probably move over to the left in front of Gibbs. Speed on the left and right! And combine that with Per, Arteta, and Giroud up the middle…
yeah, ecg, the fast wings and slooowww middle 🙂
so much to look forward to this season!
Oops. Actually saw that on blogs.
Alan Sugar: “It hurts me to say this but I think Arsenal could be the dark horse here.”
Darker then black, eh…
Hmmmm, homebrew stout. *licks lips* 🙂
Wind, cheers mate.
P.S now you’re using a Z1; cheeky Skype call from the Ems or the Tollie 😉 ?
Szcsesny!! 🙂
on what attracted the players to join Arsenal…
Szczesny: Arsène Wenger.
Szczesny on his save of the season…
Szczesny:We are in pre-season so I haven’t made any saves yet! I’d say the save I made against Robin van Persie v Manchester United in February last season.
on whether the goalkeepers should train with a tennis ball like Keylor Navas…
Szcesny: He saves tennis ball shots, so probably not.
on who they’d want to play for if not Arsenal?
Szczesny: Absolutely no one.
on advice Szczesny would give to young goalkeepers…
Szczesny: Always enjoy what you’re doing. I was not a goalkeeper by choice, I was just really bad in every other position. I was a striker and I was awful. I was nearly as bad as Chuba.
…
Less colorful comments from others, but some good observations a few.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/20140812/members-day-qandas
Beamish stout for me, please.
The old one.
‘holic
come the glorious day
when i can offer you
and yer merry band
a swally
🙂
last tooter to the bar
for the shitty wallop
my hip flask
was a particularly brilliant
(even if i say so meself)
double distilled
carbon filtered
liquorice root infused
work of drunk bringing genius
.
i was offered several lifts home
as i walked back
nope
i nipped and sidled
jamaica guiding my ears an feet
.
walking isn’t a disease
DO IT PEOPLE
🙂
mind you
the news
now
makes me fuckin angry
people who can do something
are in a position to do something
should be fuckin doin something
anything
.
just dreadful
.
sorry ‘hol
politics
i’ve done it again
but
sorry
can’t help it
Poly
ticks?
–
Oh
F
F
S
cba!
–
you’ll be
getting Lyme’s
disease.
make sure not to leave the head behind baff eh?
dem ticks be crazy
‘arry has one…..
allegedly
–
not sure where
he picked it up.
as are the lurkers
not the great band
no
the ‘holic lurkers
like a pride of “hold on a wee minutes”
.
come the 3 ton
there’ll appear
assisters
shooters
and
banjo arsationalists .T
.
😉
Howdy do
Tuning up
Plucking
Plucking tunes
Bugger
Still
Way off the mark.
🙂
On another matter, anyone seen the Alan Sugar interviewed on Sky ????
Priceless, absolutely priceless.
Don’t have a link I’m afraid. Maybe worth trying to find one.
Quite right, Trev (#224). I myself did a 26-year stretch in Aussie between ’67 and ’93. And real hard labour it was with all that surf, sea, sand and sexy Sheilas. And beer, lots of it. And some of the world’s finest wines. I missed all those lovely foggy, wet, miserable summers in Blighty something awful as you can imagine. Even Sydney winters were warmer and sunnier by comparison. 🙁
We poms (Prisoner’s Of Mother England) really have it tough mate.
Öskar
I expect OG to have his best season by far with us this term. 20 goals minimum, probably closer to 30.
Öskar
Heh @252.
cba @ 237, indeed it did, and indeed I shall, you’ve inspired me somewhat 🙂
Cent @ 244, send your Skype name through one of the back-channels, I’ll see what I can do come matchday 😉
Agree with cba on walking. The best thing you can do for yourself. Running of course too hazardous at my age. Biking isn’t half bad, mind you. 🙂
oskar – another fine job of describing a typical Aussie weekend above @255. isn’t that just normal for everyone.
It has actually been terribly cold and near freezing here in Sydney of late. today it is near the middle of our winter and it has dropped below 15 degrees with blue skies.
we all have our thermals and beanies on 🙂
Wait wait !!
This weekend real football starts!?!?
YESSSSS!!!!!!!!!
Oskar – OG on 20 – plus goals?
Amen brother.
BB: Cheers.
H@H: Sorry to hear about about your pet. But better he rests in peace than suffers.
El Puno: I took a look at how many games it took for Henry, Giroud, RvP and Adebayor to score their first 50 goals in senior football. It comes out:
Giroud 126 games
Henry 148 games
van Persie 177 games
Adebayor 181 games
Another measure of their early impact is how frequently games they played early in their careers:
Games played after three seasons/after five seasons:
Giroud 49/133
Henry 79/172
van Persie 76/151
Adebayor 84/139
Giroud, Henry and van Persie hit the 50 goal mark in their fifth season; Adebayor in his sixth.
Sad to hear of your loss, H2H. Pets do get to you don’t they.
I was luckier, I thought I was going to lose my boy earlier this year when he was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver and very poorly. I even picked a spot in the garden where he would go (with a Pohutukawa tree on top). But he made a surprise recovery and the tree-and-Oskar-planting has been postponed indefinitely.
I hope you find another pet eventually, when you’re ready of course.
Öskar
NBN – interesting data from the monks. I think what rankles many is Giroud’s so-called inefficient goal scoring. Would be curious to see the shots per goal ratio for the players you reviewed (including Giroud pre-Arsenal vs Arsenal).
I did a quick look at last year’s league numbers. Suarez managed 31 league goals, but took 181 shots to get there for 17% success rate. Giroud was 16/112 for 14%. The best of the EPL was probably Toure – 20/64 for 31%. Just for fun I looked at the other “great” scorers. Ronaldo also had 31 goals, but took 216(!) shots for 14% conversion rate. Messi was 28/160 for 18%. And by the way, new guy Alexis was 19/66 for 29%!
So if Giroud takes as many shots as Suarez, he ends up with around 25 goals for the season.
Interesting stats, Ned. Should go some way to answering Homer’s question mark in #262.
Öskar
H2H – just saw your post about your dog. So sorry. My buddy Dante left this world in early June – the most gentle soul I’ve ever met. It is always hard to let them go.
NBN,
Thanks for the stats!
It seems that whatever perception people may have on Giroud, he is ahead of the curve (in terms of goals scored) of our most recent strikers of the past.
Methinks that he can only get better and people are forgetting his assists which are also the hallmarks of a good player.
I feel that Giroud has not reached his full potential yet and will still improve on his goal tally.
Foremost on my mind is also Sanogo and Campbell, they should have more games to allow them to reach their full potential, play them in cup games, league and FA!
😀
H2H – sorry about your four- legged friend. You were obviously very cut up. Hope the Gunners can put a smile back on your face on Sat although we are very short at CB . Not great planning to sell Vermaelen and leave us so exposed.
Also surely the Chieck Tiote stories aren’t true? I always worry that Arsene can’t shake off skinflint mode. I thought he looked a spent force when we played them last year and he is headstrong and rash. I’m sure with the financial resources we have we could do MUCH better. Hope it is press rubbish.
Ooooh, Kostas Monolas eh? Sounds like another AW master stroke. Kostas is a quality name too, always liked that. Think they knocked down his barber shop to build the N1 centre if memory serves…
I hope these reports that BIG Ivan is looking to get this done asap are true. We are really taking a risk rushing the BFG back whilst Kosc has – if the tattle men are trusted – a lingering a chiles injury. Chambers can only play one position at a time however versatile he is and he’s never juggled European and domestic football before. Quite a step up for a 19 year old. Getting dragged about to hoof balls for England will probably happen next time they gather too.
Another early-twenties international at a good price who we can bring in and develop into true “super quality.” Mega shrood. (We should have got three of those last year, but anyway.) Now for that holding player and a striker please BIG Ivan.
Forward 🙂
264 – Quality research there NBN. I must say I am surprised to see Giroud the fastest to 50 goals… Can I ask at what level he was playing? Also, did you count subs as full games?
Starting every week in a lower division is a bit different from working your way in to the team at Arsenal mainly off the bench. RVP started behind God and Son for example.
UTA
El Puno – a chiles injury? Sounds like a rice and milk poultice combined with a cold beer should get him ready for Saturday!
Morning El – That Monolas dude sounds good. My mate is Greek Gooner so I know he will be over the moon if he does come to us.
I still hope we will try to get a couple more in before the window closes. I am still very much in the camp that feels we should be safe than sorry, although considering we still have Theo to come back and Campbell, we are still looking good!
There’s still a few games to really gauge where we are before the window closes. Fingers crossed!
All Hail the club for their business this summer. It can only get better!
Who’re we signing next?! Manolas?… brother of Legolas??! This is becoming legendary 🙂
It can only get better indeed!
274 – Morning KING GT. Certainly be plenty of people in Norf London who enjoy a Greek in the side. Looks to be pretty decent business by all accounts, he’s certainly highly rated by all the paid chatter. Fills a glaring need. Think the idea of getting someone in who can develop for a season, or two, then join in full-time rotation with BFG and Kosc makes a lot of sense.
No doubt these are exciting times. We are clearly a team on the up. More so than anyone else in the league I’d say, so that 7 point gap looks less and less from where I sit. I’d still love us to get in a couple more of these AW projects. We all know the spots. It’s a huge vote of confidence to make Arteta captain, but he and Flamini only have a year left each on their deals. We could do the same there as with Monolas. Get someone the manager can mould into the next big thing, which he does so well. Sanchez looks wonderful, but he doesn’t look like a lone striker to me. I think adding a third player to the Giroud/Sonogo axis could help push both of them, that’s not really a competition at the moment. If Giroud goes down for any extended period of time I can’t really see that the options are particularly appealing. Sonogo twice a week for two months? Eeek.
We’ll see. 3 games in 7 days to look forward to now. It’ll hit the ceiling if we can take 6 Prem points out of that 🙂
Forward
#FreeCarvahlo
#FreeBalotelli
El P,
Methinks Sanchez will eventually be tried as a lone striker once Theo gets back as well as Campbell, if he doesn’t go out on loan am sure he will be given a shot as striker.
We do have enough personnel on the wings, it’s a glut of attacking midfielders!
AM more concerned about the defence, would really ease my mind if we could get a DM or CB or both!
😀
BB knows – Sanchez for the main striker role at some stage as he has the creative and scoring side nailed down pat.
Giroud will be much better when actually not physically stuffed for more then fresh.
Campbell seems to be the scoring goal machine sleeper that seems to continually miss any serious discussion. I understand many think he still may be sold or used as a sub, but AW would have done that by now and not bothered to bring him back.
he is a small version of henry and balotelli in one without the stupidity of balotelli.
El Puno – Aaron for top scorer at 9/1 odds you say 🙂
nearly as good as the deal you managed to get from Lurky 🙂
Good call on Campbell, Aussie. I think (and hope) he will surprise a few people.
one key point that AW did mention re Alexis, was how effective he could be for us on the break. He was truly quite something to watch in the red and white against Citeh.
Alexis created so much trouble for their backline with his creative running, passing vision and accuracy, I can only imagine how strong we can be when he is also able to feed theo on a fast break…
add to that if Ozil11 can also have the option to feed both Alexis and theo, then that is truly the attacking power we have lacked.
Kostas Monolas ?
I thought AW would be more likely to go for his cheaper team mate Kostas Notalotadosh …… 😉
H2H,
Sorry for your loss, mate.
Bloggs makes salient point this morning about the possibility of getting a DCM.
£16m for 19 year old Chambers is a serious sum of money for any manager and quite an extravagant purchase by Wenger for a defensive player, let alone a “back-up” defensive player all things considered. And while Diaby’s availability has become a joke at the club, the reality is that he is supposed to be “available” this season and now that we have signed a fitness guru in Shad, our dependence on that “availability” might become more fact than fiction this season. Then there is the fact that we have plenty of other midfield players who would do a job there. Furthermore, Arteta has not only been retained in the squad, but is now club Cap-i-tain……so it would appear he’ll at least play as prominent a role as he has in past seasons. All of this may be indicative that Wenger will not purchase a DCM at all. I think the rumours arounds Manolas contain some element of substance and it would suggest to me that he has opted for a specialist CH as opposed to spending big money on a versatile player who could have played in both roles.
This would come as no surprise at all. While I, like others, would like to see a Gustavo, Carvalho or a Pogba arrive, I find myself asking the question: When have we ever seen Wenger spend considerable money on a DCM? I just feel Wenger has a general propensity to spend money in creative areas and not necessarily in defensive ones as a rule. Look at our current defence and estimated costs: Per (10m), Kos (10m), Debauchy (12m), Gibbo (home grown), Arteta (10m)………backed up by Chambers (16m..!!), Flam (free), Monreal (10m)….and possibly Manolas (8m).
The plus side to all this, is that we may well be in for a surprise and that he’ll buy another striker if the right player becomes available. I just feel that there is a greater chance of him spending big money on an offensive player than there is on a defensive one if past behaviour is anything to go by.
I’m not really sure that this versatile CB / DM exists.They are completely different roles and I’m not sure there are any at top level.
A centre back plays looking at the whole game in front of him most of the time.
A defensive midfielder will have to play facing all directions with opponents closing down from all directions. He needs to have quick feet, good all round vision and awareness and make very secure use of receiving, retaining and passing the ball.
It also involves almost constant running – quite different to a centre back who needs to be very tight positionally with his partner, and full backs.
Probably of the two, far more likely to find a DM who could play at CB than the other way round.
Like Joe, I don’t get the impression that AW sees it as a great priority to sign a defensive midfielder.
With our front six options the opposition are never going to have the ball to attack us anyway. 😉
Trev, you could say Mascherano fits the CB/DM description.
Joe: If Paul pogba is still available then he’s the one.
he ticks all of AW’s latest key transfer boxes:
“he is versatile and can play many roles for us”
which is AW finance speak for:
if his real cost is 20-30mil, we can amortise the cost over 3 different positions, therefore his arsenal cost is only approx. 10mil per position (potential)
very clever AW, I like it…..:-
Thank you all for your kind words, highly appreciated.
Pogba would be some signing, he has everything but I think that if Juve are going to sell him, it would be for astronomical sum of money.
Pogba would be a monster signing, in more ways than one, but can’t see him costing anything less than £40 million, or Juve letting him go come to that.
re: Giroud/Henry/Adebayor/van Persie stats, thanks for kind words, and yes, the no of games include sub appearances as well as starts. Giroud’s early seasons were spent in the French second division.
Well i can say proudly that i met an invincible. I met Freddie Ljunberg yesterday as he had come to Bangalore for a Puma event and the man is humble and i mean really humble.
He had a press met and an interactive session with that idiot called Paul Masefield who asked him such cliche questions that the great man embarrassed.
Yet in all that, there were a couple of fantastic things freddie said, he stated he never had one best mate, he said everyone was one another’s best mate. He also said Dennis God Bergkamp was the best player he played along with it and among ths current crop he wanted Sanchez to join us desperately and was delighted when he did so.
But what strikes the most is he always said Us, not Arsenal, he always said we and us. Shows how much The Arsenal is imbibed in him.
He spoke so highly of the boss and the respect is so evident.
The event was fantastic and the man was so cordial. He called a few of to come and meet him in his room and even there he was like i am so amazed with the following of The Arsenal and how well informed you are about me.
He signed every thing that was given to him including my Arsenal tattoo hahahha and he said he tried his best always. It was literally 12 in the night when he left and he asked do we want to join for dinner, i was barely concious then, what a gem, what a legend.
Nice one, Vinay!
Glad you had a great experience Vinay. Sounds like Freddie was enjoying himself as well.
Good stuff Vinay, Freddie talked about his role for the club during the Legends Q+A pitchside at last week’s Members Day and it seems like he performs it as well as he performed on the pitch for the mighty Arsenal 🙂
Sorry for your loss H2H .
Great experience Vinay! Did you guys take Freddie to the Pecos? Is it still around and alive as it used to be?
About the base of the midfield position, a few weeks back some of us were discussing here that one way or another — either through acquisition, or through tactical tweaks, or a mix of both — Arsene would find a solution to our ‘problem’ in that aspect.
And there is a problem for us in that position. It has less to do with Arteta’s abilities but more with how we want to play our football: Arteta is a quality #10 converted back into a quality pivote player with technical silk and tactical nous at his disposal, he cannot suddenly add long strides or fast horizontal movements to his game.
We want to play attacking game in the opposition half. Closer to their goal than ours, exchanging passes at a rapid speed and switching play from one flank to another.
Switching play from one flank to another is a key aspect to the attacking moves, against both dour defenses of lesser teams and more quality defenses of better teams who also would have two or more players ready to capitalize on our mistake in the intricate passing to launch counter-attack. Switching play destabilizes the starting positions of those counter attackers and their feeders from the defense.
Switching play works best when we have both flanks in an aggressive stance, at least two players available readily to interchange quickly and create a overload for either a playmaker to assume critical position in a space that just opened up or one of the runners to dart through and receive a pass right onto his path.
That is, both the wingers — whether a speed merchant like Theo, an inside forward like Alexis, or a nomadic playmaker like Santi — should be ably supported by their fullbacks to have the switching of the play work well.
Now in this formation once we lose possession and a counter attack starts against us the opposition has multiple possibilities: run with the ball down the middle, run with the ball down one flank and have the other flank load with a striker and a goal-scoring midfielder to exploit the empty space, or play diagonal passes the first time to a runner in the opposition flank.
In all of these cases our defense needs to be able to recover its shape quickly in response to each of these variations. To do that our fullbacks must return to their starting positions — a singular weakness of Nacho who is otherwise a very good player — quickly, and the DM must be able to anticipate, react and then recover. Arteta is good at anticipating and reacting, a good tackler actually, but never at recovering once he has committed himself. Once he is beaten he is out of the defensive equation altogether.
This is why players like Poldi and Santi look so poor when we are facing counter-attacks, because they need to hurry back to cover their side of the defense as well — often deep in the penalty box — and backtracking in speed is not really their forte.
And if we need our wingers to get back too deep defending counter-attacks we become too narrow again when we want to launch our own responses as there are no outlets down the flanks. Theo often hides this problem well because of his tremendous sprinting speed but otherwise when we have just brought back our entire forward line — except Giroud — deep in defense and Kos nicks the ball and runs with it forward and passes it to Arteta there is very little option ahead of him. And Arteta is a great passer of the ball, but not even a very good runner with speed at ball on his feet. He circles around, looks for Rambo or Jack or a run down the flank and the impetus is sometimes lost.
So in those situations too we can do with a defensive minded midfielder who can surge forward with the ball on his feet to drag the opposition defense towards him and then release the ball to the flanks which now offer more space to our wingers who to begin with did not drop themselves too defensively.
If we don’t have that defensive minded MF who can also recover after being beaten and surge forward with the ball, we must find a tactical solution to this problem.
One solution on display was the rotating box-to-box of Jack and Rambo against City where one of them stayed with Arteta in defense and once released drove forward with the ball whereas the other quickly moved himself to a #10-ish position. It worked well, not least because Alexis and Santi were very good at proving outlets and protecting the ball and City defense was under-par. The rotating aspect was the key as City couldn’t man-mark or anticipate whom Arteta would pass the ball to and hence Jack and Ramo interchanged seamlessly.
But how would that work when Ozil returns? Would he play like Santi? Playmaker on the left? And rotate with Santi in terms of starting position? Or we will play this rotating two box-to-box only against stronger oppositions and against lesser opposition Rambo or Jack plays down the middle and Ozil/Santi in the #10?
If we don’t get another player capable of playing the DM role, I think Arsene will try out Chambers in that position sooner than later. In any case Arteta cannot play two games a week and Flamini has the same problems as Arteta while offering less in terms of technical or tactical abilities.
Trev/ Joe
I don’t see a specialist DM coming in either because I don’t think Wenger thinks we need one. Certainly he doesn’t factor in a Makelele type who prowls around in front of the back four and gets a nosebleed in the opposition half.
Usually players who do move back ; like Frank McLintock and Peter Simpson) move back from midfield as they get older and tend to read the game very soundly.
I’m just pleased I haven’t heard Cheick Tiote mentioned anymore.
One of the few Arsenal blogs with good sources is Gooner Talk. They believe Wenger has made Carvalho his number one target as he believes he has the necessary versatility.
I think the Cavani rumours are rubbish
@Doctor Faustus, no he stayed in the upmarket Mall called UB city and he had his schedule that was followed. So no going out anywhere apart from the soccer school he visited as a part of the itinerary. Nice to know you know about Pecos, yes the place is still there but hidden in the more swanky ones that have come up in Bangalore.
I for one cannot buy the reason of not wanting a DM. It is the most glaring piece missing in the jigsaw and it has been the most glaring one since Gilberto Left.
A defensive DM is the security needed in a fluid system like ours wherein we do not get run over on counter attacks. We cannot have the likes of Ozil or Cazorla or even a Ramsey to track back always. We need that defensive cover and that is a must. The sooner we do so, the better it is for us.
CB and the greek defender seems to be the latest on the name but it is alarming that we are seeking him now knowing for a fact that TV5 was bound to leave. Remember we have a fixture pile up and also tough games like Besiktas and Everton away as well as Man City home, so we need a proper DM and a CB right now. Come on boss.
For H2H and ecg: “Women and cats, will do as they please. And men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.” ~ Robert A Heinlein
A bit misty eyed, puts 2 doggie biscuits on the bar and raises her glass xx
Ventures up into the final third…
assist
check your DM mate.
Boom! 😀
Well in BB 🙂
well in, BB.!
It was a team effort Wind! What am I Messi?
Couldn’t do it without you and cent!
Expect us to get many more over the weekend!
😀
Btw- Bayern vs Dortmund ‘Live’ currently in their super cup. For those interested.
Still find it hard to believe Pool shipped 4 past Dortmund.. May they use up all their luck before the season starts!
with you on that BB, Dortmund were dominating Bayern pretty much whole first half.
Eandy,
Dortmund are impressive! Anyone we can nick from them?!
😀
Mkitharyan (probably wrong spelling) looks a handful, but we do not need another creative midfielder, at least not now. Aubameyang looks pretty good aswell.
Wonder how they allowed Klopp to wear that yellow jacket by the touchline…
Pep looks a little lost.
BB: from what I saw, Dortmund had far from their best XI against Liverpool.
Lars,
That’s a relief! For a moment I thought we had to start worrying about Pool. 😀
Dortmund completely dominating Bayern!
I missed the earlier post H2H, but my heart goes out to you.
Put my four legged running mate, counselor, and all around best mate – down a few years ago. Terrible business and it broke my heart. Still does.
My little brother said to me, hey look: dogs come and dogs go. That’s the way of things. Not sure if that helps you at all, but it made me feel better.
Cheers H2H.
Aaanyways, anyone can recommend nice Bed and Breakfast in Islignton area? (preferably as close to Ems and Tollie as possible).
Just checking my options so far but it might so happen that me, my better half and few friends might visit HoF for the Burnley match in November.
Great analysis Dr F, in particular “It worked well, not least because Alexis and Santi were very good at proving outlets and protecting the ball.” It was failures in this area that cost us against Liverpool and Chelsea. I also think that Arsene will play Chambers in front of the back four when Per is back ready to play. The power and accuracy of his tackling will enable him to win the ball without conceding free kicks and he has demonstrated great accuracy in distributing the ball out of defence and into midfield and the forwards. Playing in front of Per will speed his development as he will talk him through games. I have been astonished by the quality of his performances so far, given he is settling in to a new team.
Thanks Joeos @ 313.
Great points about Chambers. I think everyone has been equally impressed by the maturity of his performance. Now the question is of course one of fitness. He is nineteen, the body is still going through growth pains and if the various medical analyses are to be trusted you do expect one or two injury-induced lay offs. I am sure with introduction of an upgraded medical/fitness team it would be much less of a concern compared to what we had suffered with respect to the other young talents from Southampton who joined us early in their career, but still I think we should not plan excessively on our new defensive prodigy’s availability in the first couple of years. He will grow rapidly in his role(s), by all evidence would be a great player for us, but in the first year or so I expect some stretches of him spending time in the recovery room.
I agree, sorry if I gave the impression that he would play regularly in that position. I expect Arteta to continue to play the majority of games in that position for this season, with Chambers being introduced for a certain number of games based on discussions between Wenger and the new fitness team.
Here we go again
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28742392
At some point of time, these dolts should take a look back at their prediction of Arsenal outside top four in the last ten odd years and realize may be once, just once, they should pay heed to what history is telling them. 🙂
Joseos @ 315: Right, unless we get another defensive minded player who can play that role as well. 🙂
I could be wrong, but I think Arsene still has some transfer business — in and out — in mind.
Among the youngsters, I think Iggy and Coquelin would be sold, Gnabry would be loaned out, Ryo would be nurtured back to fitness in the first half of the season before being loaned out for a final chance (even there he is already behind Gnabry) or sold, Akpom would go out on a loan. I think many of the ‘weaker’ PL teams should take a look at Akpom. He will offer them pace and finishing they are not going to get easily on the market.
One or two of them may also be used to help in a deal for someone coming in.
Joeos and Dr. F re: Chambers:
There’ve been nothing but positive signs from the youngster so far, and every indication that he has what it takes (in spades) to make it at any of RB, CB or DM. But I fully expect some growing pains this year. So far we have only seen him in preseason friendly games, and only 3 of those. Defenders usually (read: always) have growing pains. Remember Kos? And Gibbs? At positions where maturity, positioning, reading the game and lightning-quick decision-making are so vital, and where one mistake can be so costly, you don’t usually find players really ready to perform at the highest level until their mid-twenties.
My 2 cents.
There must be negotiations for an experienced backup centreback in progress to provide cover for Per and Kos. It would be too risky to allow the deadline to pass without making such an addition and I don’t think the Vermaelen deal would have yet been closed unless they were confident of getting an upgrade. I think you are right about the players going out. It is a pity that Iggy and Coquelin have not developed into first team squad players. If Hayden is not to be considered for the League Cup because of the size of the squad, he is another who could benefit from going on loan.
There is good reason Fabregas’ purchase price was cheaper than Alexis Sánchez, Diego Costa, Luke Shaw and Ander Herrera. THE MARKET NEVER LIES!!!
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/11031433/Chelseas-capture-of-Cesc-Fabregas-is-the-best-Premier-League-signing-of-the-summer.html
That’s leaving aside the effects on the rest of Fabregas’ season after Flamini applies the dementor’s kiss. 😉
@ 316 DocFaust
Phil McNutty is at it again!
He’s forgetting his meds more regularly now, sign of alzheimer’s maybe. Needs to take more turmeric!
😀
318, apologies but I don’t have the keyboard skills to type your non de plume. In general I agree with you, however there are exceptional talents who can handle it. For example I believe Duncan Edwards was a regular for Manchester United from the age of 17 up to his death at 21 when he had played around 150 games for them. On the other hand there is the charmless Michael Owen who was probably overplayed at a young age which may have shortened his career.
nom not non!
The more fragile of the former Southampton fullbacks has already begun his injury problems at his new club.
http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/aug/13/luke-shaw-manchester-united-injured-hamstring
For You Ropey regulars, it seems you can renew from last year as nine of us appear to have done.
If you cannot let me know at goonerholic@virginmedia.com and I will send you the code.
Cheers all.
As perhaps you might be able to tell, I’m based in Turkey. I saw last night that there were tickets available for the Besiktas match so I booked them – because they were cheap and because I could though I doubted I would get hold of them as my membership is associated with an English address! I contacted an Arsenal fan in Istanbul through Facebook (whom I’ve never met) asking if she’d like to go if (big if!) I could get the tickets over here somehow. Courier at great cost maybe? End result: FB ‘friend’ has confirmed bed and ensuite for the night. Arsenal box office told me my tickets will be waiting at an hotel near the stadium for me to pick them up. Wow! I’m off to the match when I find a flight tomorrow and have a new friend to meet. What a wonderful family we are 🙂
Nice one, Bodrum. Let us hope you will have a good trip and get to celebrate a good result too!
Great stuff, Bodrum.
Efes.
Lars is paying. 😉
That’s great news Bodrum, really glad to hear it 🙂
I have to say I was mightily impressed with the mighty Arsenal box office. I was expecting the usual ‘we can only send the tickets to the address registered to the …’. Well, they did at first and suggested that I needed to change my address online and cited data protection act etc. Try telling someone you’re on a boat trip in the middle of the sea with no internet access etc etc and expect sympathy! Please, please don’t send the tickets to my English address because I’m actually in Turkey. On a boat trip. In the middle of the sea. With no internet access. But they listened! Hallelujah, we are still a club and not just a money making conglomerate!
Yes, Zico, Efes, tesekkur ederim. And I’m glad that Lars is paying because this is fast becoming a country with alcohol that no-one can afford! Despite that, a bottle of Raki is on the bar for all 🙂 And, another one if (when) we’re triumphant in Istanbul! Whoops! I need to find a flight to Istanbul!
Well played, Bodrum !
Pirating tickets on the high seas ! 😉
Good news Bodrum.
Is Raki maybe a rakija, alcoholic drink made of fruit, usually grapes or plums? If it is, count me in, I love raki and like to try new, preferably homemade types which I enjoy served with different vegetable salads and lots of cheese and sausages.
Nice one Bodrum. Fair play Arsenal.
Indeed Trev! What a day!
Lurky: Raki is a grape distilled alcoholic drink with aniseed flavour normally served with white cheese (Feta) and melon. However, it is very strong and I tend to avoid it these days. It has a personality changing affect and I have no wish to suddenly become a Sperz fan. As if!
As for sausages, without pork in this Muslim country, they’re not proper sausages!
“What no sausages ?!”, came the chorizo dissent. 😉
I’m surprised they don’t have sausages in a Muslim country as even for “Hello” they say ” A-Salami-Like’em “. 😉
Thanks ‘Holic. And I thank you for this wonderful forum where I always look for all things Arsenal but rarely find I have anything worthwhile to post. I probably should change my name to Bodrum Gooneress. I still remember the day when my older brother took me to the Arsenal in 1967. And my mother forbade me from going. I went! And that was that!
Trev. Chorizo! I could dream! I will view the mosque differently from now on.
Bodrum living the high life I see. 🙂
Allah akbar and raki down the old drainpipe. 🙂
Too true BT8GG 🙁
There is sujuk and the merguez … non-pork sausages 🙂 I rather like merguez…
Bodrum Gooneress, an absurdly wild conjecture: but are you a journalist who by any chance had written a piece on rivalries between Istanbul clubs in New Yorker couple of years back? An excellent piece of football journalism if anyone is interested …
Evening all.
Bodrum, High Seas Adventure and Arsenal all rolled into one great first chapter. Sure was fun just reading it. Good luck and enjoy xx
Vinay, Very nice mate. Think you and Freddie represented our club admirably.
Quick repeat. There will be more 🙂
For You Ropey regulars, it seems you can renew from last year as nine of us appear to have done.
If you cannot let me know at goonerholic@virginmedia.com and I will send you the code.
Cheers all.
I don’t know merguez – have I missed something? Sucuk, of course, I know.
Dr F: No, sorry, I don’t have that claim to fame. Maybe I should claim it?
Cheers. Dr F. I am now Bodrum Gooneress.
Bodrum @ 343: Merquez is Moroccan, lamb based and spicy. Good stuff.
You should definitely claim it. A protective double blind in case you turn out to be the one. 🙂
Enjoy the game and your match day experience. Carrying flares? 🙂
Anyone we can knick from Dortmund, BB (#306)? How about Reus and Hummels?? I’ve been dreaming of signing that pair for a couple of yseasons now.
As for a DMF, an extra defender is a waste, imo. Any midfielder with the right attitude should have his eye on any gaps behind him. I’d much prefer another attacking MF and get back to simply scoring more than the opposition does.
Öskar
Vinay@290- you are a lucky man.
Freddie is one of my favourite arsenal players due to his unique footballing skills and equaly his fighting sports spirit and personality style.
I get the feeling AW has been trying to find the unique qualitities of freddies old team for quite some time and obviously it is a monumental task.
Debuchy on life at arsenal….
“When my agents told me Arsenal were interested, I said yes straight away! There was no question, no debate, no doubt, nothing! You don’t turn down a club like Arsenal. A lot of players would like to be in my shoes right now.
“This is another dimension. If you compare the training grounds for example, nothing at Lille or Newcastle can match the Arsenal one. It is another world.
“Everything here is made to optimise your preparation and you as a player. So you can be in the best condition to play and win football games”
anyone see the new watches on the arsenal website
not bloody cheap
limited edition red, with limited edition price unfortunately.
If we can hope for a Palace pounding there must be hope for a Besiktas bashing as well?
Palace pounding first though. And if we come through with a marginal 1-0 to the Arsenal I will call it a Palace pounding nonetheless. 🙂
Interesting to note that German World Cup players Philipp Lahm, Manuel Neuer, Thomas Muller, Toni Kroos, Mario Goetze and Jerome Boateng all turned out for their clubs in Super Cups two days after none of our three were available for ours.
Just sayin’
Öskar
Bundesliga has a winter break!
Just sayin’.
OTD – and other than Kroos, how did that work out for them? Our German WC contingent returned on Monday. In the absence of a time machine, they could not have played on Sunday. Besides, who cares? We won!
A time machine, ecg? Where were they holidaying, in the ’60s?
Öskar
OTD – maybe Poldi! 🙂
Good morning, all!
With ‘holic’s permission, here’s an article I found VERY thought-provoking as well informative http://desigunner.wordpress.com/2014/08/13/reading-the-game-part-i-defending-is-significantly-easier-than-attacking/ it’s a bit Wind-ish( 😉 ) but it’s worth it in my opinion.
The headline of the above article is a bit simplistic but trust me the article goes beyond that.
352 – Might want to fact check that Oskar, Toni Kroos plays for Madrid now mate.
352 – respectfully withdrawn, I added Bayern to that all on my own 🙁
I am probably among the minority who feel that without a DM we will be found out in the games that matter. In the smaller games, we will have enough position and everything will look nice but a DM is a must when we play the likes of a city or a chelsea or a united or even a besiktas. Is it Chambers?? no i dont think so, for the kid needs to settle down at Arsenal first, play at his natural position of right back or as things look centre back. Just because he started off as a central midfielder does not mean we play him there. Football now is full of specialist roles and the DM is a specialized role which needs to be played by a carvalho or even a Diame than a Chambers and this in no way is doubting Calum’s ability.
Juventus have supposedly signed a CB so this may make our CB signing of Manolas( not sure how to spell) hopefully quicker.
lastly the Cavani rumors is bull shit. I mean amounts like 300k per week, 50 million bid etc is ridiculous. He is not even worth half that money and if he were to be so good why are the likes of say a Madrid or a barca or even a Bayern not interested???. I think he is more or less a glorified Giroud. I think if we do get a striker, it will be a loan deal on the last day and thats that.
Fully agree on all your points, Vinay.
Without a strong mobile defensively orientated MFer, we will be vulnerable to the likes of Bayern, Dortmund and Chav$ki.
Chambers must be eased into the first team gently not thrown to the wolves.
If the numbers being quoted are correct, then Cavani is total fantasy. Can’t see him as a priority myself. Never been convinced that he is an outstanding talent. Closer to Giroud than Henry imho.
Vinay –
As someone who has previously been openly and directly critical on here of AW and arsenal FC due to some of our past player choices and our lack of squad depth, I can honestly say Arsene does know best and his new purchases so far stand testament to that.
Look at debuchy, sanchez and chambers if you have any doubts.
They are absolutely awesome to put it bluntly.
We just beat citeh without the mystical must have new DM.
Citeh surely are big enough, are they not
I dont for a minute believe the BS about their reserve squad for that match. They have two world class players in every position.
They got beat fair and square and with no new DM
In the match v citeh, chambers went on his first serge forward and I swear he could have been a striker.
Cant we for once just enjoy the end of the transfer window, whatever that brings or not and then lets just enjoy the season just watching Arsenes decisions actually work.
AW seems to have no financial restrictions we know of, he has a good base squad and academy to work from and we just beat citeh playing in second gear, with some new players who are about 1-3 weeks fit.
If he bought a midfielder and put him as a DM, a centre back or as a goalkeeper, I would expect that arsene knows what he is doing.
To me Aw looks very relaxed, calm and happy. He doesn’t have the big constant scowl marks across his forehead as last year.
If we don’t trust him now, we never will.
The DM debate is becoming less important to me as I watch the team unfold slowly but surely.
If diaby is out for ever, AW will buy the appropriate replacement.
Vinay, I rather think Football is moving away from players in specialist roles, apart from Centre-backs and ‘keepers every other position has undergone considerable change; Full-backs are turning into wing-backs; Wingers have to be able cut inside and take shots or make inside runs these days as opposed to always sticking to the by-line and looking to cross the ball in earlier years; strikers have to be creators and assist goals too nowadays while no 10’s have to score more goals too; the DM position is no longer about just having physical presence and breaking up the opposition’s attacks, these day the DM has to be a pass-master too, a sort of deep lying play-maker who almost never loses possession and always makes himself available for a pass from his teammates.
Real Madrid won the UCL last season with Alonso, Di-maria, Khedira and Modric in midfield. Their opponents in that final, Atletico, who also won La Liga, had Gabi, Diego and Koke. Barcelona prefers Busquet to song in midfield. Bayern sold Gustavo and converted Lahm to play alongside Schweinstiger, Kroos and Javi Martinez in midfield. Liverpool came close to winning the league last season with Gerard, Henderson, Joe Allen, and Coutinho in midfield. The only team that achieved anything of note last season with a ‘specialist DM’ sort of was The Manc Blues. Now it looks like they think Fernandinho is not physical enough so they bought Fernando who was fouling everybody he came across last sunday but still ended up losing 3-0. I don’t think we would have dominated them in midfield as much as we did if they had Fernandinho in place of Fernando in that game.
Good Day all.
As it happens, Aussie, Abou is fit and in training according to the excerpts from the manager’s presser today. That to me is good news.
It fits in nicely with your thoughtful summation above. Also Kos is fit.
The best thing to do now would be to kick back relax and allow AW weave the magic that he undoubtedly still possesses.
SG. Kos and Diaby fit? I’ll throw my pound on a 2-0 to the Arsenal with our French duo scoring the goals then. Note I didn’t name the French duo by name exactly. 😉
About 48 hours to go and I can’t wait.
With your permission H, a good piece by Little Dutch http://www.arsenal.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=545322
While there is no assurance that Diaby will remain fit throughout the coming season, it wouldn’t be too much of a gamble to rely on him, Arteta and Flamini in that position till next summer. AW must surely be looking for the final solution to the deepest lying midfield position we all like to refer to as DM. Let’s just trust that he knows exactly what he’s doing.
bt8, I was shocked myself to say the least. Your odds on ‘the duo’ look good to me though:)
*prediction*
Matchday stats show that we’ve drawn 3 and lost 1 of our last 4 opening games of the season.
I’d put those results mainly down to our lack of preparedness on the opening day, with fans, players and probably even the management all wondering where the hell any new players are coming from. This time will be different!
Solid gooner – if abou is fit and ready than all power to him and AW for both of their patience.
I was expecting to hear abou was injured again.
Im firing up the barbie for a long enjoyable spring and summer of football.
Again, thank you for the kind words, ladies and gents, they really mean a lot.
——-
Congrats on the ticket capture Bodrum, I know exactly how you feel, because……..
The countdown is well truly on now, two more sleeps….well…one and half really, as I’ll have to leave home around 3 o clock to catch my flighty to Blighty, could of taken a later flight, but that would of seriously cut into the pre match drinking time and i can’t be having that. THOF here I come…….
Bring it on!
For The Your Ropey League members, all you have to do is activate your team and you should be automatically signed up for the league.
Full injury news:
http://news.arseblog.com/2014/08/wenger-koscielny-should-be-fit-for-palace-opener/
Good thing our other three Germans are back in training because apparently Gnabry is a long term absentee. And here I was depending on him to fulfill our Deutscher quotient.
H2H. Does that make us auto-ropey?
I agree with Cent on the specialist player being a dying breed. The strictly defensive midfield player is a thing of the past, something Arsene and other managers have also said. The collapses at Anfield and Stamford Bridge had little if anything to do with the lack of a defensive midfielder and much, much more with the wrong game plan and not sitting back from the start while working our way into the game. At Stamford Bridge, we clearly tried to surprise Chelsea by going on the front foot and it damn near worked as Giroud had a great chance to make it 1-0 for us which could very well have changed the entire game. Anfield was a collective fuckup of gargantuan proportions (manager and players together), and a defensive midfielder would probably have made no difference at all in my opinion.
Afternoon all,
It’s been such a busy, hard week that I was slightly shocked this morning when whoever it was on the radio said it was TWO days until the Prem kicks off again. Two days – cannot wait.
Great news above that Shad Forsythe has clearly been feeding Abou and Kos the horse placentas left over in The Quackery from RvP’s ankle.
Has anyone else noticed how “horsey” Robin looks these days since rubbing in those vitamin packed chunks of afterbirth. Sorry !
I agree with everyone on the DM debate – Vinay and Bath, that we need one against the biggest teams, and those who say we don’t because our midfield dominates higher up the pitch withiut one. In any case, the days of the bonecrusher DM are gone as he results in too many dangerous free kicks and too many yellow and red cards as the rules now stand. The current DM is more a ball-nicker, capable of winning the ball while staying on his feet, ready to launch the next counter attack.
Whichever side of the fence you come down on – or just sit on it like I do – please let’s have no more suggestion that Diaby is the man for the job. A fit Diaby is potentially a marvellous player, but a defender, or sniffer-out of danger, he is not.
I really think that if Arsene could be guaranteed to win every game 8-7, and not bother about defending, he would be happy. And so would I. Bloody hell, that would be fun !
Trev: absolutely agree about Diaby. He has never been and will never be a defender.
In other news, the CaS has upheld the Suarez ban although he is now allowed to train with the team and attend matches.
Okay holics – what is the real deal with Gnabry? what is this long term injury? because it sure has been long term! I like him, and think he has a future at the club. Also, are Bellerin and Zelalem going figure in the first team? Can’t imagine Diaby staying fit at all, sadly, he does seem to be made with glass. If we get this Greek guy, we’ll have a whole new contingent of Arsenal fans…just like in NY we have a new contingent of fans from Chile and Columbia
On another note – I’m looking forward to seeing Chamakh again, always interesting hair! I’ve got a soft spot for him, and I think Boss does too
Peter, the reports back in April was that it is a knee injury sustained during a youth team game.
Zelalem is listed on arsenal.com as part of the first team so you’d have to assume he’ll be in the squad every now and then during the season even for league games.
H2H. As an owner of many canines over the years my condolences. I know what you are going through my friend and it’s never easy.
I found this interesting piece on line. I guess it’s something we all knew but it’s nice to see it in black and white. Perhaps the club will have a bit of a rethink????
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/revealed-arsenals-missing-120000-supporters-at-the-emirates-9668489.html
Re a holding player???? For the last 3 seasons we have been crying out for a holding player and a striker. We are still missing both. I agree with everyone above. If we don’t get the balance right then we all know that we are likely to be on the wrong end of a hiding more than once this season.
Thanks Lars, shows that Bellerin is still listed in the Academy list. Hope he gets some first team play this season, he looks good imo, some great crossing, and pace to burn
Cheers, Trev and Lars. Glad to know I’ve not been talking to myself all along.
P.S. I would really like to know what you guys think of the points made in the article I posted a link to earlier @357.
P.P.S. I’d also like to clarify that I have absolutely no relationship with the writer and stand to gain nothing(apart from your thoughts) from people reading it.
To be perfectly honest, Cent – that piece you linked to was far too long for me to read.
@ Aussie, i never doubt the boss, never in my last 17 years of supporting The Arsenal and i never will. All i meant was why is it that when he can nick of brilliant deals like Sanchez and Ozil, he still seems hesitant on buying a DM???. Is it because he does not believe in that role, is it because he believes players need to be versatile??. I agree on the versatility part but in a team of fluid and technical players, the insurance of a DM is most important. He need not be the hacker but he can be a terrier. When we have seen this repeatedly happening that we lose out on games mainly because we have opposition stand on our toes and do not allow us space, then i think its logical to hustle them the same way. The players we have are not that, definitely not a Arteta and neither is Flamini, i mean for me Flamini was more guilty of such lapses than Mikel. Flamini was way out of position far to many times throughout the last season.
I am sorry i do not want to sound pessimistic. I love the team like my life and i can genuinely feel that we are so close to be the perfect team which can compete and win. No i dont mind if we dont win, afterall its a sport of uncertainties and not fool proof. Yet i want us to be competitive till the end and not regret with the if only if feeling.
P.S- Greek website confirm Arsenal set to sign Manolas who has been left out of the squad.
Vinay,
If Manolas comes, then Chambers will be the DM or perform DM-like duties.. !
😀
Re: Trev @377: On your recommendation then I’ll lay a standing dollar on 8-7 to the Arsenal. Like a house of cards, really. 😉
Vinay. It would be good news if we have signed Manolas but I’m not sure about trusting a Greek website. Have you seen the indecipherability of their alphabet. 😉
I think Lars sums it all up perfectly @ 376.
Diaby, or any other player for that matter, all have to do their share of the defensive or attacking work irrespective of what their primary area of speciality is.
Like Lars, I also feel that the defeats at Chelski and Liverpool were not all down to our lack of pace in DCM. That said, there are much better players out there than either Arteta or Flamini and I do feel we should bring in a DCM. In much the same way as I feel Cesc is a far superior player to some of the attacking midfielders we currently have. There are of course other factors that have to be considered, such as harmony, loyalty and togetherness…..and thats where you have to trust the manager.
All that said, for reasons I outlined earlier, I cannot see Wenger now going for a DCM, especially one that would cost a huge amount of money. I think he’ll try to sign another striker.
Ttg @ 295,
On the Cavani front, a note just to say that Wenger has already tried to sign Cavani last January 12 months, before he left Napoli. Obviously, he failed. But then again, he also had serious interest in both Ozil and Sanchez before their respective moves to Madid and Barca……and look who they play for now. It shows that Wenger is tenacious in going after his targets – so I feel the interest in Cavani is very real.
Cavani would make overall level of handsomeness of our squad significantly lower than now.
Haha, Lars, it’s definitely a looong post, that’s why I said it was Wind-ish 😉 .
Daily Telegraph are reporting that Tony Pulis is not impressed about the lack of transfer funds available at his disposal… They did sign Martin Kelly though.
So good times ahead this weekend?!
😀
Good news about the You Ropey League, I see I feature again, so no one else will be propping up the table.
CoR – Congratulations and the very best of luck.
H2H – Comiserations, but best of luck for the trip this weekend.
Sorry about the delay, but I felt only three bits of fluff would justify a post. Thursday evening drinks on the bar for all.
COYG
Good time to face Palace?
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/tony-pulis-crystal-palace-cochairman-steve-parish-unable-to-guarantee-manager-will-be-in-charge-for-saturdays-opener-against-arsenal-9669942.html
I am a mixture of agitated excitement and frustrated rage.
On the cusp of a new season, I cannot wait for 5:30 on Saturday evening for the real football to begin. Till then, like a kid on Christmas Eve I will toss and turn sleepless at night, distracted by day, running through imaginary formations and scenarios trying to second-guess how the game will go.
The frustration emanates from having my now routine attendance on opening day at the Grove being kyboshed by Sky. With their mitts all over the fixture list, they usurped a grandiose plan: one which had me climbing the Emirates steps on Saturday, scooping at sea level with some Holics and still getting home in time to engage in the more demanding ascent up Ben Cruachan on Sunday. It all hinged around a Saturday 3pm kick off.
Thanks, Rupert.
Still gaga for it to start, though. All the transfer twaddle has left me cold as it does every summer but I have from time to time smiled wryly as others got bent out of shape over things they can neither predict nor influence. That’s not to say that I am not impressed with the work that Arsenal have done in the transfer market. i had expected us to revert to shopping in the less-than-platinum range, so the arrival of Alexis has been a big pleasant surprise, and apart from improving us significantly, we upset the thieving Scousers into the bargain. Nice.
Everything that needed to be said, and it’s not much, has already been said about the pre-season fixtures that Arsenal have tuned themselves up in. Whilst its much more preferable to start the season by winning, especially at Wembley with a trophy to boot, the 3 points against Palace is what really counts. And with 3 games in the first week, the importance of a good start at home cannot be overstated.
I have seen a few revisionists on the web of late (perhaps not here) suggesting that Mr Pulis is, well, not a cunt. Let’s be vigilant people. OK, his mob served up a fantastic slice of schadenfreude by putting the final, telling, rupture in Liverpool’s title challenge last season. And he proved to be instrumental in saving the Eagles from certain relegation. But this is the man who demanded a public apology from Aaron Ramsey. He is still a dinosaur, an ignorant, disrespectful self-serving baseball-capped twatspatula. And we will be doing an enormous service to the human race if we can provide him with at least 90 minutes of excruciating torture. If he’s still there!
With concerns easing about our back line, it will of course, be what we do at the other end that decides the game. There’s goals in this Arsenal side. Lots of them. Would be lovely to see Sanchez open his account. I expect our Welsh maestro to be in amongst the scorers as well. I’m going to predict the following line up –
Szcesney, Debuchy, Chambers, Koscielny, Gibbs, Cazorla, Ramsey, Arteta, Wilshere, Sanchez and Giroud.
And a three nil win to the Gunners (Ramsey, Sanchez and Giroud).
The team selection at the Tollington will be somewhat more predictable.
I will raise my glass down my own local to a bunch of absent friends : Lars, tabs, wind, H2H, Baff, (Baff Jnr?), Snowy, Steve T, BtM, Trev and of course, Goonerholic. (Apologies for anyone I have forgotten). You have no idea how gutted I am at not being able to be there.
Have a fantastic day out and Come on You Rip Roaring Reds.
Especially if we splash the cash to sign a top drawer defensive midfielder, center half and striker.
Name: Godzilla, who plays all three positions at once. 😉
Well spoken, zico. We must never forget what an enormous twat Pulis is.
Wish I could share your confidence about the result, but Pulis will have spent all summer getting his players fired up for this one. I know many won’t agree, but as long as we get the three points that’ll do me. I think we are in for a real fight on Saturday.
Good stuff, Zico. And you’re spot on about Pubis!
Nice one zico, you will indeed be missed.
Lars, don’t think Pulis has ever won at The Grove.
Still a cunt though.
*Cheats one in*
*Looks towards the linesman, sees no flag, reels away brandishing a middle figure on each hand pointing towards the capped bell in the away dugout.*
Well in H2H!
🙂
H2H@399: no, I don’t think so either. To be honest I’m not sure he’s even got a point there. Someone will no doubt correct me if I am wrong, but I can’t recall anything but wins v Stoke at the Emirates. Doesn’t change the fact that any game against a Pulis side is a physical and hard one.
True that Lars, but we’ll be up for it. Good to see some of the players pointing out that we lost our opening game last season and are willing to put the record straight.
zico, you will indeed be missed, mate. Hope you can enjoy it on TV.
Lars,
you are quite right. There is no point to Tony Pulis 😉
Heh@Trev!
H2H: we will definitely be up for it, I’d be very disappointed if not. And anything but a win would be a crap result, I just don’t expect an easy win where we barely have to get out of second gear.
Superb zico. I would have published that!
Sorry all, absence this week owing to good reasons for once. Busy, busy, busy.
On the arsecast tomorrow, I will post a several pint preview tomorrow night, and you can read even more garbage from me in the match programme on Saturday.
Famine and feast 😉
Great to contrast this year’s optimism with previous years. I remember in the year of the Fabregas/ Nasri sale, being asked by the Editor of the Gooner to write a piece for the first edition of the year and jointly commenting that we weren’t looking forward to the season at all. Last year the atmosphere at the Villa game was poisonous , due in part to Anthony Taylor.
This year things are much more bubbly. I always feel Wenger never quite does enough in transfer windows. I’m in the Steve T camp in this respect. However it’s hard to say we haven’t done enough when the window is not over. It’s nonsensical to start the season and close the window two weeks later. It should close as the season opens.
Although we have a stunning CL qualification record ( up to now!) I am always bemused that have left our transfer investment until after the qualifier. A few years ago I guess we had to ensure the money was available and maybe someone like Ozil wouldn’t have joined until we had qualified but it’s such an important game that I thought we would want our best eleven out there for both legs. It’s a big gamble to go to Istanbul with a weakened side let alone one that is incomplete in terms of team- building although if Arsene is to be believed we are only looking for one player probably now. Still Arsene has been quicker off the mark this year and last week’s result helped morale.
It’s just that my built in barometer of likely success feels that we are short of what I think we need. Those thrashings at our rivals last year ( and the flat performance at Old Trafford) are a real concern to me and I hope the penny has dropped to stop them being repeated this year. A high- tempo pressing game, a much quicker front line and a slicker passing game will all help.
But can Mikel Arteta stop Chelsea, Citeh or Liverpool in full cry? Not convinced that he can despite a decent performance against Citeh reserves last week. It’s a long season and Calum Chambers is a terrific acquisition but unless we clone him he can’t play at Centre Back, anchoring midfield and deputising for Debuchy. Still the sack for Pubis tomorrow would get the season off to a promising start.
Ooooo.
In the official programme guv?
I’ll have to pick one up in the Armoury……
You’ll have to sign it ofcourse. 😉
Reports (unofficial) that Pulis has quit.
Like to think it was me that put the hex on him
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28797071
A reason for reading the programme! I had an article published in the programme the night bobby Moore field when we played Leeds. My Dad was still alive and was incredibly proud. I shall read it with interest- something I don’t usually say about the programme!
Yes I hear Pulis has gone. Typical Palace crisis – they won’t find many who can do what he did last season. But he is still loathsome and his treatment of Ramsey was awful
zico – nice work!
Ttg,
Just to remind you that transfer windows are never just “over” – neither do they ever “close”.
They always SLAM SHUT !!!!
Heh ! @411 – zico-in-hex-file. 😉
Pulis is gone.
LOL, is the term. I think.
We need to remember Pulis has prepared this team already for Saturday. Even though the players’ heads will be reeling at the moment, by Saturday they will be ‘doing it for Tony’. Still the hard task predicted by Lars. At least unless we can take an early lead. If that happens their roof could fall in.
Fine piece there Zico. You will be missed, sunshine. A pint of black and a wee chaser of Macallan on the bar for you.
Holic in r’afeeeshal programme! A reason to buy my first programme in three years.
Can’t wait for Saturday.
COYRs.
Off to bed now, then half a day of work tomorrow and then it’s off to the airport… I can almost taste the beer now! 🙂
Lars, you lucky bugger! Have a good one, mate.
In the case of the Kostas Manolas transfer negotiations it appears to be a good thing Wenger was playing futevolei on the Copacabana beach with Olympiakos “strategic advisor” Christian Karembeu. Futevolei seems to be the modish mode of negotiating these deals, and AW’s skills seem to have been up to par if the deal goes through as appears likely to happen. Who else was on that court now, and do they have connections to a defensive midfielder?
420 was based on Karembeu’s appearance in this story:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/11035665/Premier-League-Olympiakos-tell-Arsene-Wenger-they-want-8m-for-Kostas-Manolas.html
Lost track of the number of times I’ve heard a Tottenham manager saying this.
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/394518/New-Tottenham-boss-Mauricio-Pochettino-not-feeling-the-pressure-of-working-for-Daniel-Levy
Vinay@385 – never doubted your gooner-ness for a minute. 🙂
I think this year is different as AW has much more control over what he can actually do versus what he needs to do, than in previous years.
If he feels he does not need this specific DM type player for all the valid reasons you and others note, then I would suggest he has a pretty decent reason why he is not seeming to be jumping in quickly for this type of player.
Pulis Gone – hilarious stuff. what a tosser that bloke is/was.
that is good stuff and worthy of another smiley face:)
all we need now is a few arsenal disliking refs such as Dowd and that dean fellow to also follow mr pubis out the door, then I would apply one smiley face thing for each of their departures. 🙂 🙂
the only negative in our team unfortunately is the ongoing news that Serge Gnabry is indefinitely out.
a real shame as this could of been a great season for him to make an impact….
Given how Pulis saved Palace last season, it is idiotic that he has been eased out. Shows why a club doesn’t need a megalomanic owner.
Cool if the BFG is quoting international football to focus on our double, then treble, then quadruple master plan.
Quiting FFS.
So spent a little fortune on arsenaldirect yesterday but I am all set for this season shirt wise, home kit with Mesut, away kit with Alexis and lady cup kit with Santi for my better half. Now I need to figure out accomodation and tickets and visit for Burnley match on 1st November is very much on the cards 😀
Laurent Koscielny is available for Arsenal’s game against Crystal Palace but the Gunners boss adds: “The Germans are not ready yet”. He adds: “It will be a similar squad that faced Manchester City in the Community Shield.”
🙂
Similar squad meaning Sanogo starts again??. I really dont care who starts for i am certain we will win.
Manolas still looks likely because i believe Abidal has signed for Olympiakos.
Daily mail/fail suggests that DNA boy will be the signing of the summer. Paul Shit scholes saying we wont win the title and Sanchez was not what we needed, well this means the season is upon us and the same mongers are grumbling the beaten track.
Please as much as i sound rhetoric, DM is the need of the hour, whatever system whatever we do, whatever pivot or excel sheets we try, a DM is a must.
..Or get a CB replacement for Vermy and push Chambers up to DM!
😀
Sat waiting to leave on the eurotunnel to the land of Ollie for a family holiday. Whilst it will be great fun I will miss catching up with the Tollie Brolly regulars. To all those going on Saturday enjoy your day. I hope it is a thumping Gunners victory. To those travling from places near and far have a safe journey and enjoy. Brother Holland, I will catch you next time you are in Blighty.
Sing loud, sing proud. Never ever forget who you are and what you represent.
Burnley would be your first Arsenal live game Eandy? Great news if you can arrange it.
I fear I wont have the pleasure to see my beloved club in the near future so I am happy for you as I know what that means for every Arsenal fan.
BB knows – chambers for DM and a CB new signing to replace verm
done.
we shouldn’t even need a CB replacement for palace. just throw Nacho back there again.
he did a great job v citeh
Yeah Lurky, I am planning to take my better half and couple of friends. I have always wanted to see Arsenal live in some kind of derby but securing tickets for four persons to sit next to each other for such matches is more than problematic while I presume for Burnley it will be with not much fuss (I hope as I am Red level member).
Now scouting for accomodation options near Holloway road, some B&B prefferably. Need to coordinate with friends who are on holiday now aswell…but yeah, targeting it for the Burnley game hopefully 🙂
Good luck with that Eandy.
Cheers brother Steve, I’ll probably be around again some time in the new year.
Something to amuse you all in the mean time, look… the tiny Totts top a league;
http://www.offthepost.info/blog/2014/08/will-spurs-defend-their-premier-league-basket-case-title-from-west-brom-aston-villa-and-co/
Eandy. Best deals for B and Bs/2 3 star hotels on Trivago, they’ll always reroute you to the cheapest one.
Tip.
A flight to Heathrow or City usually cost more, but in the long run are cheaper because you can take the tube (Underground) directly to Holloway Rd, Arsenal or Finsbury Park which works out a lot cheaper then the trains from Gatwick, Luton, Stanstead or Southend.
Thanks H2H, I will definitely look into that 🙂
Late to the party, but top report ‘H.
I wouldn’t have got too carried away had we got thumped in what remains a glorified friendly so I won’t do the same with what was a very comfortable win, but nevertheless there were hugely encouraging signs. I would add my voice to the general clamour of anticipation and excitement at what Sanchez might achieve in an Arsenal shirt this season. I was also hugely impressed again with Chambers’ contribution. It’s been many a year since a young centre half has enthused me so much. He looks to be some player.
Ramsey continued where he left off and it was good to see JW have an impressive half alongside him.
I agree with those that have defended my man Sanogo above. Raw he may be, but the kid has something. He changed the impetus of the Cup final, and his movement and strength (if not his finishing), caused all manner of problems for City in the first half.
We aren’t far away. Guessing at who might come in, another centre half is hopefully a must. Any incoming is likely to be a workaday player rather than top drawer, with Chambers, even at this early stage, having done enough to suggest that he is good enough to be first choice deputy for Kos and the Bfg. Either the journeyman centre half or the elusive DM who can also fill in at the back would be my guess.
As for any more stellar signings, your guess is as good as mine. My preference would be for the mythical DM rather than another striker, (unless it was Reus – players like him are just too good to turn down), as it would be a mistake imo to go another year with Arteta in the role, but we shall see. I guess the unquantifiable in this line of thinking is how good AW sees Chambers in the role and how quickly he could adapt to it. Up front, I think we have more than enough options with Sanchez and Theo both able to play through the middle in addition to Giroud, Sanogo and Campbell.
Good news that Tony Pulis is out of football. Not as fantastic as news that he has been eaten by rabid dogs, but good news nonetheless.
Cent – Ta for the kind words. Still here, albeit not as often as I’d like these days.
Top stuff above from Trev, Aussie, DrZ and the inimitable cba. Looking forward to seeing the usual tollie patrons tomorrow. A new season. Bring it on.
UTA!
Eandy, I asked the Islington of London (on twitter via DM) to recommend some B&B’s: The Arsenal Tavern has backpacker rooms and is thrifty on the wallet 😉 the other is on Aberdeen Park N5 for rooms around 60 pounds. Wherever you all end up, it’s sure to be an adventure! 🙂
Now to read… see Tabs is back 🙂
..eaten by rabid dogs, that’s a bit harsh on the dogs no?!!? 😀
My prediction:
We sign no more strikers.
We shall get another defensive minded player, if not this window then the next, after which barring any long term absences of anyone we do not sign anyone else.
We win the league or CL. Would prefer the CL though..!
Sanchez to be a regular starter and Campbell and Sanogo to give Giroud some healthy competition, hopefully they can get some playing time.
🙂
Hi Abb, hope things are all good at your end.
Indeed BB. Apologies to the rabid dogs 😉
Hey Tabs, Yes, I’m ok. Like Zico, looking forward to this season!
You have a good eye. Sanogo is my Gervinho, someone who is sure to entertain and keep me happy 🙂
NBN, agree @424. From a Palace perspective, seems ungrateful as he was instrumental last season in furthering their cause.
Zico, agree with your take also. He needs a lesson in manners. 🙁
I have no problems with his cap, however 😉
There is a unspoken etiquette at the bar NOT to comment in excess (sighs), but before I listen to Holic on arsecast, good drinks by all. Really getting me in the mood! Ta 🙂
You never comment in excess abb. Enjoy the arsecast. The Guvna is in good form.
Hi all just having a Friday brew in anticipatation of the big ko,agree with brother tabs that we do need the mythical dm,don’t think it was just tactical when we got buggered by the big boys.we need a specialist that can sit and hold and protect against quick breaks,unfortunately artetas legs are as good as my own!problem is we only need that holding player against the top sides as smaller sides park the bus,arteta keeps us ticking over nicely but when he’s trying to chase a break it’s embarrassing not to mention if ol mert is one on one.anyway hope we all have a great wend enjoy h2h!
Oh dear…
http://metro.co.uk/2014/08/15/arsenal-have-last-laugh-as-tottenham-fan-breaks-arm-skateboarding-over-gunners-sign-at-the-emirates-4834356/
The sheer stupidity of the spuds knows no bounds….
http://www.epictv.com/media/podcast/how-to-eat-sht-and-break-your-arm-%7C-epictv-choice-cuts/600248
Especially like the slow-mo replay and exclamation .. ohhhh shheeeett…
Aptly sums them up!
😀
Ha Ha, twat.
Meanwhile some illustrious Chav history : http://imgur.com/gallery/niQED3x
😀
I have to go to a wedding tomorrow on the start of the season.
I have never met the nuptials.
I don’t even know their names.
Yet still I apparently “have to be there”.
These are the little challenges that marriage sometimes present.
Joe. My sincerest condolences, sympathies, and since I have experienced much of the same on various occasions, even empathy. 🙂
TaBS is back 😀 ! Now to back drink.
That a thumbprint on your forehead, Joe?
Buy her some shoes, and you’re sorted. 😉
H2H, nice link @435, I couldn’t stop chuckling.
Eandy, goodluck with your proposed trip.
TaBS, great comeback post, mate.
Abb, what Bath said @445.
447 &448, priceless!
That would mean she’d no longer be barefoot Z.
Can’t have that. What would the neighbours think.
Christ! Are you supposed to let her wear the shoes? That must be where I’ve been going wrong.
Tabs, good to see you back, and thanks. 😉
Since I was waxing lyrical about Gustavo as the ghost of Gilberto throughout the World Cup, I have decided to come down off the fence and go in favour of the specialiat, subtle, modern DM.
I will bow to your superior on Sanogo as I’ve only seen him very briefly twice in the flesh. On TV he looks to have less ball control then Boris Becker in a broom cupboard, but if his contribution lies in other areas so be it. In any event, I wish him luck and hope he comes good.
Looking forward to seeing the same old bunch of incurables tomorrow 😉
No, Pangloss – that’s trousers you’re thinking of. 😉
The down side to the Pulis thing is now we’ll probably get to see him sitting at the pundits’ desk talking shite about whether or not it was a foul, and are Arsenal legitimate title contenders?
At least he doesn’t wear his hat on TV. Or does he? I can’t remember.
2 other things to be excited about this year:
Spurs look like being pretty shitty again. We beat them three times last campaign, and they didn’t manage a goal against us. To be fair, Pochettino looks like a more capable manager than AVB or the hilarious Tim Sherwood, but they haven’t made any substantive changes to the squad that was so laughable at times last year, and he’ll have his work cut out for him. I can only hope we come up against them in the FA and League cups so we can beat them four times this year.
I honestly don’t see Liverpool making the top four again. Who knows what will happen and all that, but (a) they’ve lost their superstar, without whom they wouldn’t have been anywhere near the title last year, (b) they’ve brought in a load of chancy new transfers, Spurs-style, and (c) they’ve got to cope with European football this year – in other words, their big advantage last year is now their big disadvantage.
The entertainment potential in both cases is very high.
Just downloaded the programme. Not in it after all. Hey ho, off to scribble a four pinter 🙂
She’s been wearing the trousers for 28 years so far Trev. Not made a blind bit of difference.
Multiple hehs – almost like old times in here tonight. 😉
Hi Holic Everyone,
Whats the code of GoonerHolc fantasy premier league?
i wish to join it.
Thanks.
BALSAAVO seems to be the acronym of the day.
For the few who didn’t figure it out already, BALSAAVO stands for Ban All Last Season Against Aston Villa Occurrences. 🙂
Normally find his blogs a bit syrupy for my tastes, but this is decent from that Stillman bloke on Arseblog:
http://arseblog.com/2014/08/contractuality/
Main points are fairly well worn, but good to see someone else picking them up: Poldi looks a prime candidate to get flipped if Reus/”super quality” is available and Arteta/Flamini is a short term possible solution that is getting upgraded sooner rather than later.
Don’t know about the out’s, but certainly two in’s we need soon. Why wait? By my count we have 25 players at present who would need to be Prem registered. That includes Coquelin and Gnarby, one of whom could be sold and the other loaned respectively if we needed space.
Looking forward to tomorrow… All the tipsters calling it a tight one 1-0 or 2-0. Just so long as we win.
Forward
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Joe
My daughter got married on the day of the first game at the Emirates against Villa…….to a Tottenham fan. There was a sweepstake on how many anti Tottenham jokes I made in my speech. Nobody got as high as fifteen which was the actual total. One a minute.
I felt I had to be there particularly as I paid for it.
I was invited to a wedding on the day we played Leeds I the Final in 1972. I turned it down saying I was buying an engagement ring. Expensive way of excusing yourself from a wedding! I never got a ticket either .
Good luck Joe you will be there in spirit!