Gervinho Gives Gooners A Sniff Of The Future In Cologne
Jul 23rd, 2011 by 'holic
Finally, I got to see ninety minutes live. It was an interesting experience. I shared the afternoon with the good people of Twitter, the drinks, and a couple of other blogs. It wasn’t a surprise, but some people attach rather too much importance to games of this nature.
After a lively opening by Cologne the game turned on a breathtaking first touch from new boy Gervinho, released by Wilshere to chip his first goal in an Arsenal shirt in the seventh minute. The Ivorian almost turned provider with a left-wing cross which was toe-poked away from the marauding Vermaelen, but grabbed a second goal for himself when Walcott played a more accurate ball in from the right side.
Fifteen minute, two goals, not a bad strike rate that. Sadly after half an hour Gervinho was taken off, possibly as a precaution, and Ryo Myaichi came on for an impressive little cameo. Cologne came closest to scoring when Ramsey misplaced a free-kick from the left back berth, and Szczesny superbly paddled away a wickedly spinning attempt from Novakovic. At this point I had to turn the Arsenal Player volume down to zero. Normally I would be inclined to keep Stewart Robson’s thoughts on, but he did seem unduly negative given the nature of the fixture today.
Arsenal, although lacking a little concentration at the back, were in almost complete control of the game, but in added time at the end of the half the lead was dramatically halved. Poor Carl Jenkinson tried to clear an attempted chip over the back four, but his attempt ballooned beyond the grasp of Scczesny. By and large the reaction to that mistake was surprisingly positive, although the self-promoting and irritating bore that is Piers Morgan couldn’t resist a far from amusing pop at a young player. It’s not the first time his words about Arsenal have been cringeworthy.
Not unexpectedly ten changes were made at half-time. That was unfortunate for Myaichi, replaced by Arshavin after just fifteen minutes of action, but the little Russian and Tomas Rosicky started their half brightly. The pattern of the game remained unchanged, with Arsenal dictating the play but appearing vulnerable to the ball played in behind the defence. I don’t know why so many were surprised by this. Most have argued that this side is a couple of new signings short at the back. The manager admits he is looking to strengthen there. I thought in the first-half that Szczesny’s willingness to act as sweeper was one attempt to address the issue. We await developments on the strengthening front.
Kieran Gibbs extended outing at left-back came to an end when Conor Henderson appeared with twenty minutes remaining. Sadly in the final minute he appeared to twist his knee attempting to turn sharply, and was stretchered off. It was good to see so many hoping the injury is not as serious as it appeared at the time.
So, at the end of a friendly you can choose to concentrate on the fact that known issues may still exist, or that we have more positive things to appreciate. Certainly the first half an hour he spent in an Arsenal shirt will have persuaded many of the quality of Gervinho. In the continued absence of Fabregas we have Wilshere and Rosicky looking comfortable in that area of the pitch (and presumably were Barca to mysteriously find the required sum to sign him stuffed down the back of the sofa we would use that money to reinforce that area?).
Having said all of that though I do still have this nagging doubt as we get ever closer to the competitive start of the season with much still to be resolved. I understand the complexities involved in the potential incomings and outgoings. The performance of the team in friendly matches pales into insignificance when compared to ensuring a motivated and strong squad is available to hit the ground running in just three weeks. Yes, three weeks. Nobody and nothing should distract from achieving that goal.
430 Responses to “Gervinho Gives Gooners A Sniff Of The Future In Cologne”
Get in there!!!
Hey , first ?
H2H you bugger ! π
Great write up , Holic , thanks . My God , you follow Piers Morgan’s tweets ?
Answers and questions in equal measure from the match..you’ll see what you want to see. Who’s up next for Gervihno to demolish.
Sorry Tabs, you snooze you lose mate. π
Have a drink on me though and one for your goodself ‘holic, sir.
A very nice summary, I too thought that Rosciky played well, in fact I can hardly remember him having such a positive appearence, his passing and distribution was very good and he hardly put a foot wrong.
I watched the game via sopcast on ESPN, not sure who the commentater was, but he was ok, I left the sound on for the whole duration of the game and am still in pocession of all my hair, so all in all not a bad feed.
No TaBS, I do not follow that boring, self-obsessed fuckwit. Someone mentioned it on my timeline. I couldn’t believe it until I saw it.
That arsehole has long been a cause of irritation to all genuine Gooners.
Had the worst of all possible outcomes – Arsenal player with no picture and only Robsons voice describing what was happening – needless to say I gave up long before FT and watched the cricket …..
Hear hear Holic . Sorry , don’t really understand how Twitter works π
Nice cameo by Gervinho, will reserve judgement but am dreaming of him giving Terry nightmares like Drogba did Senderos
It’s a long way to 600th.
Drink for anyone in the bar!
India all out 286
Nice run out for the boys today. Jack looked very good today running at their defence; hope to see more penetrative runs like that from him this season. Gervinho was very efficient today in getting behind the defence and finishing. Still hoping that we do the rest of our transfer business quickly and have a settled squad ready to battle the evil forces. Cheers Holic. TABS, thanks for your infinite wit and comic relief!
Barman, a drink for all the holics!
and we beat the mighty Stevenage 1-0 what a weekend
A coupleof notable thing from todays game.
1)Wilshire is super class. but we knew that.
2)Chamahk and Vela are Rubbish.
3)Djuorou and Squillaci are a liabilty.
4)Left back area needs looking at.
5)Walcott, Gervinho and Myiachi are pure speed machines and i’m getting tingles at the thought of them playing together.
6)Arshavin is fat.
7)Van Persie needs to be a liitle more selfish.
8) A big strong quick striker is needed. Lukaku please Arsene. and another defender.
Cheers Impeccable1 .
Dr Z , where you been all day ? π
Cheers for the beer H2H .
Very sad news re Amy Winehouse . RIP .
Here’s one for you later, Ollie…
http://www.myp2p.eu/broadcast.php?matchid=123707&part=sports
Of course when I say later, I forget the time difference.
It’s just starting…
holic,
you would really be comfortable counting on rosicky for anything productive once the league starts? the guy has done next to nothing for the last 2 years, he’s clearly finished regardless of how he looks in a friendly. agree with the above, arshavin is clearly out of shape and that reflects a complete lack of professionalism. how can you make your living with your body and not take care of it? amazes me every time i see it. overall the defending was very poor, i really, really hope wenger is serious about getting another defender, but not holding my breath. on the evidence of this outing all the other drama revolving around cesc and nasri i’m feeling less than optimistic, especially with all the important matches we have in august. how can the captain of a club act in this way? he needs to put an end to this and show that he is a captain or get the fuck out.
What exactly did the contract rebel nasri accomplish on the field today to warrant a mega salary?
tabs @ 16 – second sunny day here this Summer π
Heh, ‘holic.
Reported fights between Bordeaux and Marseille supporters too.
Thanks.
wenger should let nasri Go and get mate to replace him we dont need a player who is not loyal to his club
Ap-ollie-gies,
I am getting every sport but football after he turned over π
You said it, just 3 weeks to go, so I think we should be concerned by the poor defending that allowed a mediocre side 5 clear openings. We need a proper centre half to partner Vermaelen as Koscielny is not good enough yet, although I think he has promise.
If we defend like this against Newcastle they’ll stick 4 past us again.
we need a new LB big time!!!!!!!!!,,,,vermaelen was missed big time last season the man just loves defending and was very good today,chamakh is a donkey,,we have GERVINHO!!!!!!!!!!!
I have said from last season that for me Nasri is not as good as people say he is. I would rather Mata all day than Nasri. The guy is good on the ball but hs anyone noticed the extra touch,turn and unneccessary holding on to balls. The guy is not as direct as Cesc and i doubt he will make any impact in Man city or Manu unless his style changes. Overall i enjoyed the game and i think Chamack should be sold. The guy gives nothing to the team, seems he has no hunger.Gervinho is simply good, far better than theo……
Nice overall summary ‘holic. Cheers.
Could not watch the game but quite happy to see our new Klingon signing Worf snatching a brace on his debut.
Up the Arse!
Only seen the goals so can’t really comment too much with any authority. 2 nicely taken finishes. Comedy own goal and yes, 3 weeks to go and I still have major concerns. Still some very major questions nowhere near being answered for me. We need to get a move on boys.
It looks like Arsene has worked out that playing fast breaks out to Theo would work much better if he had a team mate who can keep up with him … Gervinho has that pace.
Arshavin is looking like he will be 4th choice left sided forwarded if he doesn’t lose the muffin top and be more accurate with his distribution.
Frimpong looks promising.
Nasri looked like he was motivated to play for the team.
Cesc … he has recurrent hamstring problems that have limited his performances and the number of games he has played for the last two seasons. He did everything but ask for ask for a transfer at the end of the 2010 season and Barcelona let him down badly.
Does he want to be the star of a team or a squad player waiting until Xavi turns 33?
Even if he did stay, would his hamstrings last the season?
Major concerns won’t be answered either way in a pre-season friendly anyway.
As it was only a friendly I will choose to concentrate on Gervinho’s goals. Good to see two quite different efforts – one cool chip over the keeper and a good poacher’s goal nicked in a collision with the advancing goalie. We don’t get a lot of them.
At the back, blimey!
I think AW thinks that defence is the thing you find round de edge of de garden.
Please get some deals done Arsenal, or get Bouldy on the training pitch with them. Or Keown. Or Adams. Or me!
Jez – agree.
Nasri looked keen enough to get the midfield organised – talking to people and that sort of thing !
Apparantly Cesc played 61% of games last season – not enough to build a team round. Are Barcelona mucking around because he really is still crocked ? Can you expect to get Β£40m for a player who cannot prove his fitness ?
Three weeks to go before a really difficult, and vital, opening month. This thing now needs sorting – like, yesterday.
Holic,
Wow the keyboard warriors are in full force today. All these Chamak haters should remember his contributions during the first half of last season. Yes, I hope he regains his form, but to slate him like the comments above is outrageous. Especially since we got him on a free.
Folks should “try a little tenderness.”
UTA
‘holic, didn’t get to see it but 1-0 : Wendel free-kick.
In other news, the number of red cards in the Copa America is quite impressive.
Or 2-0 in fact. Bloody hard to even get the score on that one. No idea who scored the second.
I’m guessing Paolo Guerrero won’t stay at Hamburg very long now π
Deadly finisher there.
i love johnny cash !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
and U2
Did anyone else notice this during the game?
Every time Gibbs gets caught forward and we lose possession, the back line of defense immediately try the offside trap which is something they didnβt do when Clichy got caught forward.
Not sure what I think about it yet, but one thing is for sure though β The offside trap is a lot easier without Clichy.
Liverpool were beaten 3-0 today. Surely, that must have been by Milan or Real Madrid or some other big team? No. It was… wait for it… Hull. Yes, the mighty Hull of the middle regions of The Championship.
Chelsea on their hand have played two games so far, the first was v Pompey which they won 1-0, and the second v Malaysia where they won 1-0 thanks to being awarded a very late goal where, according to the Guardian, the ball never crossed the line. You know, the same Malaysia that some were disappointed to see us beat with only 4-0. And if I understood things correctly, several of the best Malaysian players that played against us did not play v Chelsea due to other commitments.
So, by the same logic that is used by some to write off our chances for the coming season based on the three games we’ve played so far then Liverpool should be relegation candidates, and Chelsea not much better.
Because, surely, it can’t be that pre-season games really don’t say that much either way, now can it?
Wow, slow night on here tonight am I the only one left at home minding kids. Lars I agree pre season is for ironing out the problems but when you see gibbs making the same mistakes clichy makes and our defence being exposed by a solid but unimaginitive team you get worried. Plenty of plus points today also and an enjoyable first half. 2nd half team were the ones really in need of the work out so it served its purpose. Liverpool ? give me a break, can you really take them seriously ?. Now back to my cheap wine..
At this rate Gervinho will score at least 80 this season… Good signing or what? π
totally agree with Lonestar Gooner at 34. We would have been in a right mess without Chamakh at the beginning of last season. As for Arshavin, he looked fit and slim in Malaysia didn’t he, or did I dream that? Ah well off to bed. Night all. Hot chocolate all round.
Re: Noel73 @5, It looks like we are playing Boca Juniors, A.K.A. Gervinho’s next victims. By doing so we will covering the third continent (South America) represented in our preseason opposition, leaving only North America to be covered after that in the form of New York Red Bulls. Hopefully the attention will soon shift to discovery of our massive new signing(s).
What ? No Barnet ?. Well the south americans always good for a punch up and am sure they won’t be treating playing those stinkin gringo’s as a friendly hopefully. Never seen a massive signing yet for us and not bothered. A nice tidy CB to fight for a starting spot, a left back as I like my LB to be of the kind who when they do go forward crack one in from 40 yards in a big game or to wind the fuck out of an opposition player a la the boy winterburn. Other than that I think we are on the cusp (not cusop) of greatness..A pint for you Nas..
Good Out Tin for the Reds today.
From the last drinks, Dr. Z, Arsh’s wife was feeding a regular old dromedary. No self-respecting llama would ever take weed from a broad.
Guys, on another note, how ’bouts we get behind Gibbs? We’re gonna need him to have a good season, no?
@Lars: Excellent point. Just imagine the media avalanche of apocalyptic articles if it was Arsenal that lost 3-0 to Hull!
@frankie: Indeed a front 3 of Theo, Ryo and Gervinho is mouthwatering at this point!
@LG: Totally agree about Gibbs, let’s at least see how fast he’ll learn and progress over his first full season.
Re: Lonestar. Where did all this wisdom come from? Got it all from the llamas? :):)
Re: Ollie @11, You are correct. At time time of your post it was 589 to 699 but now only 549. That is progress indeed. Drink you say? Don’t mind if I grab a cheeky little microbrew from over here in America on you old boy. π
Not to 699, to 600. Don’t want you to think my subtraction skills are the problem. It’s the vision thing. π
Chamahk is rubbish but Vela is being played out of position.
To quote our former and most notorious president, that is …
Didn’t mean to bring up politics. Must be the beer talking … How about that Gervinho!
Vela’s favoured position include 4 or 5 of buxom luvlies so wait til arsene plays him there before you judge. Have to agree with earlier post on chamack, he did the buisness when he was called on early in the season and is a valuble player, hope he rediscovers that form. Nas hope the beer is going down well am watching re runs of morrisey at glasto and am feeling drunkingly political too, never to be discussed here though, rules are rules after all..
That’s right 8ball. You were offside there mate. You don’t want me to start talking politics now do ya? π
And here’s another vote for Chamakh. That lad is our only Plan B aerial option up front at the moment and he was rather handy before January last season.
No, not at all Stingy. I remember your politics. π
Another vote for giving Chamakh a chance. Come on the rockin’ Morroccan! Or was that a tennis player from about 25 years ago?
Just a thought. All last season we were plagued by bad decisions by the officials, including appeals denied. Since they make so many bad decisions, why don’t we launch an appeal to include in the league standings the three points earned today against Koln? Frivolous appeall, you may say? Possibly so, but who are they to recognize frivolous when they see it?
Need more proof that FIFA is a desperate and degenerate organization? Read on: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/14262937.stm
Evening American chums
Somebody in Turkey offered $4 for Eboue?
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2018079/Galatasaray-bid-4m-Arsenal-misfit-Emmanuel-Eboue.html
They must be planning to give him the star role in a new movie about the life of Ataturk. Is this where Eboue goes to launch his acting career?
Evening, TaBS. How’s the script for BTA7 coming along? Take note of the Eboue story. It has lots of potential IMHO.
4 dollars for Ebuoe Nas , taking the piss , he’s worth at least 8 .
Off to bed .
Evening Nas ,
I apologise , tricky to type , so can I get back to you on BTA 7 . Will have to respond in the morn . Have a good one .
I say if the Turks are willing to pay that kind of cabbage for Eboue then take it. As the saying goes, “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.” π
It looks like poor old 8ball was howling at the moon all by his lonesome tonight. I know the feeling. Check back later.
69!!! Yeah. Get in there ya bitch π
Stingy. First time on here that 69 was considered a round number but I say whatever strikes your fancy. Probably it’s a Kanadian thing. How about that Gervinho! π
8ball,
In some quarters the number 69 is far more favourable than any round number … if you get my meaning π
And if you promise not to slam either of the Bushes I will not go on a political tirade.
I heard Worf did well in his debut. Scored a brace, has plenty of pace, and the face, oh the face. The boy played in Le Ligue Un so he must be in the good graces of Le Boss.
I can see both Nasri and Worf on the flanks this season with both Walcott and Arshavin on the outside looking in for the majority of minutes. Time will tell.
Don’t drink too many PQ lagers tonight 8ball or you’ll be seeing dolphins in your dreams π
I just saw the picture of the lad in the Guardian summary. I must say that I’ve never, in all of my life, seen such a massive melon. This fella should sell advertising space by the square foot.
Pardon moi, Monsieur Stingy. Are you trying to mount a dolphin advertisement on a mobile billboard? Perhaps you should speak to the logistics department of the American section of Goonerholic Enterprises if you want to get the job done right and proper. π
The PQ lager supplier has not been around recently so I’ve been drinking Bitter End Pale Ale from Illinois, which I believe used to be French territory but alas no longer. Too tired to make it to 100 tonight but tomorrow’s another day.
Sleep well tiny 8ball. Sleep well … zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
I’m wearing my Swedish jersey tonight btw Lars. Just thought you should know π
whoever said get behind Gibbs was stay tin, of course, straight ahead good sense – but for me it’s not quite that straightforward. Over the last few years our fully fit first eleven has pretty much been a match for anyone – and i think the same will apply this season too – so – for me – it comes down to quality cover. Who comes in for Gibbs should he suffer loss of form (he’s far from established in the side), injury (that’s happened plenty already) or suspension etc? (TV stays centre-h, surely).
why leave ourselves exposed in this or any other spot in the team – 2 quality players fighting for each position – team with best cover nicks the big prizes.
fink folk should get off chamak’s bak by the way – he did ok for us when we were doing ok last season
Up The Arse!
Morning All!
It was only a friendly, I know, but a couple of quick observations:
1) Gervinho looks like he’s going to do some serious damage this season π
2) Unfortunately, so does our back 5 π
I’m with Trev and many here: Arsene, please get your finger out and please spend SOME f*ckin’ money, even if it’s only on a great defensive coach. A quality signing or even two (*holds breath*) and we’re right on the money.
I’m confident that we’ll score heaps. It looks like we’ve got pace aplenty and width with the new boys. Can we learn to be organised and miserly at the back and hold onto a lead? Fingers crossed ‘Holics.
Hi Holic,
Are you playing fantasy premier league ?
If you do then i would like to Join your private league. Can i ?
Thanks & Reply awaited.
SV, Swedish jersey? Good on ya’, son π
Storey@77, spot on.
And finally, a reminder: today is Sunday, that means that the Sunday tabloids are out. Consequently, any rumours that pop up today can safely be discarded as nonsense.
AL @ #76
Good point re: KG, raised many times in here. Who will be our stand-in?
Cheers Lars. Good point from you re: the Sunday papers. Only good for one thing… That reminds me, I need to park my breakfast π
Re: my post @ #80…. just to clarify, it might be obvious but I’m not a big fan of AT. Hope he makes me eat my works this season. The good folk at YG seem to be positive on him.
Good Sunday morning people.
Now then, slight logistical problem next Sunday. The Tollie is shut for refurbishment so for post game beverages can I suggest the Pins. Close to the Finsbury Park station for the travellers. It was my pub in the Highbury days and remains a favourite.
Let me know if anyone has any violent objections.
Good to me ‘holic (though I don’t have travelling issues for once as I’m taking the ST on monday only ;p).
BtM (and others), I’m around on the saturday though not (I think…) at the game, so might pop up somewhere that day too.
And so it begins, (needles and) The Pins….because of all my pride, these tears I’ll have to hide……. regarding Holics advice on The Tollie.
Ollie, I’ll be one of The Searchers for you on Saturday too.
Holic, you’ve got mail (it’s actually a reply from yesterday that I’m not sure you noticed…) π
We’ll see you When You Walk In The Room then BtM π
With our defence it will be get down in my knees and pray e ay.
Ah, Gooner singing of a much earlier version of the HT, Steve…
Holy Mary, watching Entwhistle play the bass on that reminds me of Bergkamp in his prime. Sublimely easy they made something extremely difficult look.
Great live version, ‘holic. Great times and one of my favorite songs. A few years ago I saw Tommy performed live in Central Park (New York) by an outstanding cast of young people. Great memories.
‘holic @ 90.
A very Yoda like observation. π
Hello holics..
Quick pop in to see everything is fine on here π
Re:Gervinho: Hope he continues this kind of goal scoring into the season
If we keep Cesc and make a couple of signings, I think we are good to go.
Pint please
Cheers
The Who. 5.15. Now you are talking. What a tune…..
Mods Rule.
Great goal by Jenkinson, bloody wish our forwards would take note of his technique.
Hi holic and hols I know ye don’t do gossip an stuff but if and I hope they don’t go Cesc or nas,I’d love 2 c the argentinian javi pastore come in think he would do fabs job nicely,just a thought,take care.
Hello Harsha, How’s the magic mushroom crop shaping up? DLL officials say you are in charge of the brown tin and a number of the HT denizens, myself included, are eager to partake when the crop is sufficiently mature. π
And Lester, Are you lurking to pounce on the 100th drink as you did yesterday on #500. I am suspicious so this time you may not get away with it ….
Wayne Gretzky …
Yeah!!! Get in there ya bitch π
Heh 8ball π
It’s coming along fine and I will be sending the first shipment by next week as the Arab cup begins..
Samples have already been tasted/approved by one Wolfgang fella from DLL(if he is indeed a member of the organization) which I guess helped him with his guest post a few days back π
Cheers
Well played Stingy.
Harsha, I should have recognized the ‘shroom effect in Wolfgang’s writing. π
Le Boss should consider Uruguay’s captain and CB Lugano. He’s not as young as AW likes but if a guy like Cahill is being linked to our club at such outrageous prices then why not? This Lugano is a beast. Strong in the air, very smart, very experienced. On the downside he is a bit slow footed. But so is Puyol on BarΓ§a. The club should be trying to get Lugano.
Attention Lars: Suarez is at it again. Notched the first goal in the Copa Final. He’s a guy you hate to play against but a guy you’d love to have on your team. He gets fouled all the time and accumulates cards against his opponents like almost no other. And in the definition of “fox in the box” his picture is in the dictionary. I just love this guy. Shame he’s not a Gunner. Mind you, I hope he turns an ankle the first minute against us π
Sorry H2H & Lars but Suarez is an absolute menace between the lines. And I don’t mean his spitting or biting of his opponents in Holland or deliberate goal line volleyball save in the WC. He literally makes defenders look silly on a regular basis.
Those Uruguayans are still dirty cloggers, I just saw 2 X-rated tackles. Only yellows, mind, but surely, as has been common in this competition, a red card is just around the corner.
I hate Suarez too π
You’re right about the cards Ollie. Get your cabbage down on a red before the night is done. You’ll make a profit as surely as the sun will come up tomorrow.
One other thing about that boy Suarez. He’s just about the best in the world at turning with the ball in tight spaces. Reminds me of my old Asian girlfriend π
Great first goal by Suarez and a great second goal by Forlan.
Cheers for the post mate, good stuff. Hope you and the lads have a right good day out at the coming weekend.
Stingy, I said something similar on here last year about Suarez while he was still with Ajax, but apparently only Liverpool executives were listening. I think it was H2H who shot me right down then too, pointing out the lad’s recent 6 game suspension for biting an opponent. At any rate he is a great player and he does have an apparent (if extralegal at times) will to win. Maybe Gibbs can make himself useful and cut off the guy’s legs.
Not Naz@98 naaah! one hundred – phffff! i’m sitting tight till 600 comes in sight.
Up The Arse!
Alright Esso? Fancy the Pins next Sunday?
Lonestar @ 47 – ‘how about we get behind Gibbs’
I think you’ll find Lonestar, that it will be the rest of the defence that will have to get behind Gibbs.
I really liked the lad when he first broke into the team at LB, but he is another converted wide midfielder, and for me, he went back a little bit defensively last season.
Hard to judge until he gets a good injury free run going, but he will get plenty of support from me, and my mate Jock, if he finds himself in the team.
I think, with Theo, Fivehead, RvP and the flying Myaichi, plus Jack, Nasri? and Rambo, that Arsene is eschewing defensive prowess in favour of goals, goals, goals at all ends of the pitch.
This season’s plan appears, thus far, to be to win every
game 17 – 16.
Right, everyone seems to be in church, so I’ll get me coat.
Ah ! Evening ‘Holic, didn’t see you there.
“The flying Myaichi” — I like that one. Straight from Barnum and Bailey’s Circus. He’s foreign, he’s exoctic, he’s the Flying Myaichi on the trapeeze.
Steve T @ #94
Why should I care, why should I care……?
And of course…..
Out of my brain on the (Happy) Train. Quite apt don’t you think?
Keep The Faith π
8ball – Don’t ever apologize for stating an opinion or cringe at giving one out of fear of being shot down. He’s the quintessential love him if he’s on your side but hate him if he’s on the other side type of player. Suarez is a fantastic player.
TS – back from Evensong ? π
I just nipped over to arsenal.com – looks like we signed another 4 . . . . Subbuteo players.
At least they should get back up quicker than some of our ex-midfielders. π
Trev @ #111
Just back from church. Agreed. Maybe it’s all part of Arsene’s last hurrah?
We’ll score 120 goals but concede 90 as well…. good enough for The Championship if not our blood pressure? π
I think I’ll be drinking Aussie beer tonight out of respect. Evans being the first from that nation to win the Tour de Frenchie.
Amen brother Trev π
F*ck me Tony Woodcock needs a haircut…
TS@114.
I am with you my friend. Now. let’s chuck some greasy rockers into the sea….
Just don’t check out the first few lines to I’m one. That said, both songs from possibly the best album ever made….. in my humble opinion of course.
And maybe some Uruguayan beer too. Although, I doubt I’ll find some π
Good evening church stragglers.
Roland Bergkamp – King Dennis’s 6ft 3″ 20 year old centre-forward nephew is playing for The Seagulls next season – think i might have to pop down there at some point and wish the boy well … psed – they seem to have a taste for awkward sounding first-names for Dutch fellows in that family – apologies in advance to any Dennises or Rolands that post here – unless of course one of those is Cusop’s real name.
Up The Arse!
Steve T @ #120
Every year it’s the same……
…..I’m a loser, no chance to win…..
Oh…. π
Uruguay. A country of just some 3.5 million people winning the Copa and getting to the WC SF. Incredible.
Salute Uruguay!
Not to mention the two World Cups (albeit a long time ago now) and 14 Copa Americas they had before tonight. I know Suarez is a real panto villain type and he’ll probably score a hat-trick against us next month or something but I can’t help but like him.
Every game 17 – 16. “Here comes your 19th nervous breakdown” – instead of “The wonder of you” before each match ?
Any other ‘new anthem’ ideas ?
“I still get the same old feeling” – was that ‘Picketywitch’ or just my dad’s old tape recorder playing tricks ?
Every game 17-16 eh? I guess AW was expecting Newcastle to score the 4th goal last season then, and it was only after that point that his game plan went awry? If only. π
The season is drawing close. Nerves starting to jangle. CMC supplies in order, I hope …
Where’s Irish Steve at????
After a heavy session in my own bar, I’ll pop in my favourite online bar to answer a few posts.
8ball, you are correct, I was the one who pointed out Suarez’ weakness’ and I stand by my original assesment, he is still a James Hunt.
Stingy, with all due respect, you obviously have a boner for the guy, but I’m warning you, if you lay down with Uraygian dogs then you will stand up with greasy fleas. The guy has no class, the proof will be in the pudding and the pudding will taste like shit. I’m not basing my opinion on a few games here and there, it is based on watching/following him over a number of years.
I watched many of the games in the Copa and the standard of play was extreamly low, I’m surprised that some here were shocked that U R Gay did so well as they were easily the stand out team from that region in the last WC. The historically strong, Argentina and Brazil were as useless as they were last year in S.A. Ollie hit the nail on the head when he said that Uraguay were “dirty buggers”, in fact, that was putting it mildly.
Charlie, I wouldn’t worry too much about him scoring a hatrick against us next month, after his run out in the Copa I’d be surprised if he makes an appearance in the PL before late September.
Lester, Roland Bergkamp.doesn’t do justice to his name I’m afraid.
I saw him playing for Excelsior (Rotterdam) last season, but was unfortunatly dissapointed. Was like comparing (footy wise) Thiery, to Lenny. Henry.
A drink for the bar on my tab please ‘holic….
and make sure that Lars gets one too. (a drink and not an increased tab:) )
So, I’m at a Canuck pub. I’m sitting next to a willowy female who says she’s a vegetarian. She orders a tuna melt and I wonder, to myself, how is fish flesh so different than so-called animal flesh. I also wonder where she is going to get her protein from. I mean avocados can only take you so far. And avocados are high in fat. So isn’t it just defeating the purpose, I wonder to myself? Why doesn’t she just put some meat in her mouth …
H2H,
You’re right. I do have a boner for the guy … footy wise. But this guy is the real deal and then some. You should know better than most if you’re in Holland and watched him with Ajax. His stats don’t lie. And if he came to us and not Liverphool I’m sure you’d be whistling a different tune. He may not be the classiest sportsman with his biting and deliberate hand balls but he oozes footballing class. I’d take him straight up for Nasri at the moment (has a longer track record of brilliance and isn’t bitching about cabbage, ergo less headaches). He’d be a stone cold starter on our squad and certainly is in the same footy class as our top players (Cesc, Nasri, RvP) — although Cesc is at a higher level when not injured (he’s proven it for a longer time but he is in a different position mind you).
Suarez is so good that he would get significant minutes at Barça as a winger. He would be rotating spots with Villa and Pedro (and now Sanchez). He is that good.
It’s fine for us not to like players on other teams but to put them down just because they play elsewhere is like the osterich putting his head in the sand.
I’ll drink to disagreement and buy you a real pint anytime H2H. Cheers.
H2H,
The standard at the Copa is no less than the standard at the Euros. Brasil, Argy, Uru, Par, Chile,Col etc. all brought their top teams. Only the invited teams (Mexico & Costa Rica) brought weakened squads (mostly U23s).
And Suarez was the player of the tourny. Succinctly — enough said. The proof is in the pudding, indeed.
I agree 100% with you Stingy, Suarez is a magnificent player and I’d rather have him on my team rather than against my team.
Suarez is a beast. His will to win, and sacrifice himself for his country is remarkable.
(And please spare me that crap about being a cheater for handling the ball in the QF of the WC, I wish I had one in my team who would sacrifice himself for his nation/club. I’m from the “win by any means necessary” camp anyway so I saw it as heroic)
Diego Lugano and Diego Godin (who didn’t play this Copa) are two excellent CB’s who will kill anybody in their way of the ball.
But my favorites are Egidio Arevalo Rios and Diego Perez. To see two untalented players running their socks off every game and killing everybody that comes between them and their COUNTRY’S happiness is something I admire.
We’ll just have to agree to disagree, gents.
You can throw all the stats you want at me, I still think Suaraz is a twat, in fact here in the Lowlands his twatiness has legendary status. He has even appeared in comercials as a twat, why? Well basically because he is a twat covered twat with a creamy twat centre wrapped around a crisp twatty shell Since his departure Ajax have become champions, something they never managed while he was there, in part due to his twatty presence.
When he was being brandied around ALL european clubs over the last few seasons I literaly prayed that he wouldn’t go to Arsenal, so to say that I have any feeling of sour grapes, vinegar or Spanish wine about that twat signing for the Mickeys, couldn’t be futher from the truth, maybe you guys, (our american cousins) don’t get the same kind of coverage that I am prive to, but if you did then maybe you could see beyond your oh so holy, but ultimetly meaningless stats and realise that this guy is an arsehole of the highest order and is not fit to wear our shirt.
Maybe coming from so far away you don’t quiet grasp what it means to play for the Arsenal. (This is by no means meant as an insult, in any shape or form) Since the days of the great Herbert Chapman, there has been a code of ethics instilled in every Arsenal player, if you do not reach our high standards then you are shipped out sharpish, no matter how much supposed talent you have (case in point, Bentley and Pennant) If Suarez was at the Grove, then I can imagine that Mr Chapman would be turning in his grave.
Also to state that the standard of the Copa is equal to the standard of it’s european conterpart is so wrong that I don’t even know where to begin. If you truly believe this then we must be watching, to coin an American phrase, a totallly different ball game. The womens WC was far more entertaining then the dross served up in the Copa, suffice to say, the games in that tourny made the Serie A look exciting.
Have a drink on me, I’m rolling off to bed.
Peace!!!
H2H – First things first.
I do not see myself as an American “soccer” fan but as an Israeli football fan, and that is just the same as the English passion (I think my shoulder “painting” would testify to that. And believe me when I say this that I watch more football than most people in the world apart from scouts and managers from all the leagues in the world.
I do get what you’re saying about wearing the shirt as I know very well what being a football fanatic is from my days in Israel but I really do think he isn’t a twat off the field, he seems nice, he gets along with Forlan, Lugano etc. He wouldn’t have gotten along with his NT teammates if he was such a twat.
He reminds me of Vieira. Don’t you remember Patrick spitting at Ruddock? Don’t you remember his dive at Anfield? Isn’t he a legend in your eyes? He is in mine.
He just said that the guy that he is on the field is totally different than who he really is since his competitiveness and will to win actually “possess” him and it makes him a twat (towards opponents) on the field.
I think Suarez is the same. A twat on the field and a nice guy off the field, and to be honest I wouldn’t mind a twat (someone who would kick the opponents for kicking our players, someone who would be the first to fight with opponents who disrespect Arsenal or Arsenal players) or two on the field, to have some steel in our team.
Well said Snir. I’ll second that.
In fact, we should go after Lugano instead of Cahill, Samba, Jagielka, and any other grossly over-priced “English/EPL talent”. He’s a poor man’s Puyol.
And no offence to our brothers over on the ‘right’ side of the pond but I always find it a bit rich when they pull the ‘I don’t know how much footy you watch over there’ card on us ‘left’ side of the pond folk. My parents came from Hungary and last time I checked they played in more WC Final games than England (albeit, they lost both) and have won more Olympic footy titles than England. Also, my cable package shows more EPL games and other European league matches than it seems is broadcast over on the ‘right’ side of the pond. And I watch as much footy as I can get my eyes on. So don’t play the sanctimonious ‘I don’t know how much footy you watch’ card. It is a weak argument … always.
Let us not forget that Dalglish signed this beast. We may not like KD (some of us) but that damn Scot sure as hell knows his footy. Full stop.
We can agree to disagree and drink as friends always. In fact, as a sign of our good faith, I’ll drink a couple of Heinekens on tap right now to prove it.
Snir – Have you seen any willowy vegetarians in your pub this evening mate π
I know nothing about the guy’s personal life or the intricacies of what he did while at Ajax but I know a quality, talented and ultra competitive footballer when I see one and Suarez is just that. This has nothing to do with which “side of the pond” one is watching the game from. Nevertheless, a drink of your choice for my fellow Gooners.
After all, the game looks the same whatever side of the pond you’re on π
*sip, sip, sip*
When’s the next shift come in btw?
She says that she’s a beer drinker and has never had liquour. Hmmm, her hips don’t lie. Yet, my beer goggles tell me those hips are fine …
SV @-139 I’m not sure I’m following you there… please explain..?
I wouldn’t say I’m more passionate about football than person X or person Y but I do know that football is my life and I watch every league in Europe.
I get what H2H is saying because getting an upbringing of an Arsenal supporting family is important and it makes you proud to be a Gooner, so you have certain principles that you wouldn’t give up on, for instance, if someone would ask me if I would approve of Nani and Evra playing for us and we’d get a title, I would not approve because there are some things I just can’t give up on, one of them is supporting players who disrespect my club. I wouldn’t want us to sign John Terry even if it would guarantee us the UCL.
But I did get that upbringing from my dad to a different team (Maccabi Tel-Aviv) and being the kind of guy I am (I don’t have grey areas, just black or white, either I hate with passion or I love to death) I adopted these principles and approach I have towards a team to Arsenal.
That’s actually why I understand TS’s hatred for anything Spurs because a derby is the most important thing in the world, it’s what we live for, that’s why I hate them religiously just like I hate Hapoel even though I didn’t grow up in North London and had school fights with Spurs fans from the other class, because I adopt my way of thinking to every club I support.
H2H, I get what you’re saying, but I think Suarez is more of a Patrick than a Joey Barton.
Snir – Just a half hearted joke about fine willowy females at a pub near you. I’m rather fond of females, willowy, or ‘I’m a beer drinker’ types π
Although, to continue a discussion, sort of, from a prior day, I’m not so fond of females behind a burka. Mostly because I can’t see them. Therefore, I can’t be racist π
Snir @ 143,
All that stuff you are saying I can understand to the core. I’m not sure if you are aware of, even through all of your hatred toward FCB, the events which occurred through a certain Portuguese’s transfer from one fierce rival to another. Throwing a pig’s head ring a bell?
And I’m just wondering why some would dismiss Piers Morgan? The last I saw he is a Gunner fan and spoke extremely highly of LJW via Lampard. So, the question is, why would some fellow Gooners try to shoot a fellow Gooner down? Sounds like cannibalism to me without further elaboration. And if I didn’t know better it’s a very Kanadian, and shameful, trait. Unless, of course, it is well founded. As yet, I’ve only heard totally unfounded accusations via this site. Unfortunately, in Kanada we tend to eat our own, especially the successful ones. I can’t believe it could happen in England as everyone there is so much more ‘refined’ π
Suarez debate aside, did I read somewhere that Uruguay got the fair play award at this Copa America?
Mwahahaha, this can’t be a serious competition with that .:p
Stingy, didn’t they say that Obama Bin Laden was a Gooner? π
Ollie lad, it’s true. Uruguay won the fair play award (or the Lady Bing award for fellow Canucks). It’s not your father’s Uruguay, or Homer’s for that matter, after all π
Ollie – I don’t know about OBL’s allegiances on the footy side but I’d send a drone after him and all of his inbred family nevertheless — whether or not he was a Gooner. Need I elaborate?
Please, any ‘holic, implore me … I don’t subscribe to that PC liberal crap if you haven’t noticed by now. Neville Camberlain — hell, I never would have voted for him — much like many of you softy PC crowd over on the other side of the pond btw — cough, cough, cough. You reap what you sow. Never forget that. Take care of your own backyard first. Finsury Park? Londonistan? I rest my case.
I’d rather chase after willowy females myself. Even those females that think they’re ‘rather slim’ whilst pounding the pops.
But I digress …
AW, spend some fucking money and get us a proper CB God fucking damn it!
Think about it. An EPL team in the capital of London. A team that is about the top 5 in the world in terms of revenue generation which currently acts like a selling club. Shameful. If Real Madrid bought a new stadium five years ago I guarantee you that they would not be acting the way we are right now. Bottom line = shame.
/rant
Canuck, you are getting near to the bone. Don’t ever consider Piers Morgan is a Gooner. He is the lowest form of pondsucker.
http://forums.arsenal.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/71010941/m/4691093206
And another, more important, footy Q I have for all ‘holics is this. I am a pro Wenger man but my patience is waning. How long before ‘holics pull the cord? Seriously? We are coming to an end, are we not? Even a great man like AW has an expiry date, like the rest if us, if performance is not met in the workplace. Look at his salary and look at the increase in the ticket prices. Is it commensurate with performance?
SV, I know I might be picking up dog-ends here but Piers Moron is, always has been and always will be a massive, massive twat. A self-promoting big-mouthed talentless one at that. No problems dismissing him with his track record of managing some of the most trashy, bottom-feeding, venal gutter rags these Isles have seen.
And sorry, but what on earth qualifies him to be on America’s Got Talent? He’s a hack for god’s sake! Slimy little lifeform.
And in case you think it is just an Arsenal thing, here is another reason why Morgan is a piece of shit…
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/3716151.stm
Lads,
He’s got Larry King’s time slot on CNN here on this side. And that Larry King was like watching Tutumkhatum after he was dead. Piers Morgan says he’s a Gooner, likes Jack the Lad, and yet the whole lot of you eat your own. You treat Morgan like he was a Chel$ki fan. It’s like the Sunnis against the Shiites. You guys are eating your own.
No offence lads, but it sounds to me that you’re pissing on him because he’s famous. What has he done that is anti-Arsenal? Again, give me your explanation in your own words please. Not this link from anywhere bollocks.
Sounds like the English Isles are becoming Easter Isles. Chomp, chomp, chomp ….
Why does anyone have to be civil to another simply because we support the same club? That’s like one of those situations where you meet one of your countrymen abroad and they come over all pally because “hey, we’re from the same country, we can be mates right?” Wrong. The only thing I have in common with Moron is our football club, a connection which means the square root of bugger all to me. The fact that he’s a gooner, and not a chav, makes him mildly less cunty to me.
And as for the religious parallel. If I was religious man, let’s say an Anglican for argument’s sake, and I met another Anglican who was an overbearing, obnoxious boor, I’d still hate them. Your religion, your club, doesn’t matter a jot. Being a respectable individual takes precedence over all of that, and by the same token if someone supports Man IOU and is an intelligent, well-mannered type, they’re a Good Person of course.
Give me that femur! Chomp, chomp, chomp!!!
A talentless twat would not get the 21:00 slot on CNN. No sir. Never. And he conducts better interviews than Larry ‘I died two decades ago’ King.
Easter Island folks. It’s a sorry scene π
CG – So what the hell did he do to piss you off so? Give me your words, not a f*cking link. He’s successful? He’s famous? WTF??
Stingy, you have been borderline for a while, but starting on fellow posters has tipped it for me. I think you would be better off offering your opinions elsewhere.
Cheers.
Sorry SV but he’s not ‘one of my own’. Being a gooner does not excuse him from being a smarmy git. He might give good interviews in your eyes but for me he comes across as arrogant, smug and self-important – just two different opinions.
Where’s the link in my posts? Anyone else see them? Thought not.
Anyone else think Clichy does a great Amir Khan impersonation…ouch
Try reading the links. it gives you a glimpse of his “talent”. He will do anything to get ahead, however much misery and pain that causes others. Therefore by definition cannot be a gooner. Lying cheating and being a self serving piece of work disqualifies him absolutely. His current charm offensive is disgusting. Luckily he is doing it somewhere else than where I live, so I thank him for that. The less I see of his smarmy face the better.
Ah some sense at last , well said CG @159 .
Stingy , please , you have been asked before by others to keep your politics off these pages . Please do so . As someone who lived in Stroud Green for 4 years ( one mile from Finsbury Park ) , your first paragraph at your post@151 , and especially the last line, is offensive . I’m asking you again , politely , to do so .
Piers Morgan is a self-obsessed publicist who knows jack- all about Arsenal . Do your own research Stingy , although slightly baffled that you consider the BBC ” a link from anywhere bollocks ” .
And whilst I’m on a roll , Dalglish is a busted flush . Was hopeless at Newcastle and any subsequent job since . His buying policy at Liverpool looks to me deeply flawed and they won’t get anywhere near the top 4 this season . I will be surprised if he’s still in the job this time next year .
And Stingy @153 – you’re pro Wenger ? Don’t make me laugh . You can’t go two posts without having a cheap pop at him . I could go on a long diatribe defending his record over the last 6 years , but frankly , if you don’t already get it , then you never will .
Snir – What’s with all the ” hate ” stuff ? Maybe it’s just semantics and I’ve misjudged what you’re saying , and if that’s the case then I apologise . If , however , your words are to be taken at face value , then all I will add is that the world would be a much kinder , nicer place if more people recognised the grey . The world is full of grey , not least on the top of my bonce .
H2H – I’ll have a pint of whatever you’re drinking , funny and articulate even after a session .
‘holic loses another reader because he took offence to something. And I never attacked anyone, for the record, so well done with censors. Be proud of yourself ‘holic. And you’re a hypocrite btw. You start an unfounded attack on Piers Morgan without any basis or explanation and now you play the high ground. Well on you sir.
Good morning all,
So I left last night drifting off to lyrics of The Who and self-indulging courtesy of Steve T (cheers, mate!) thinking the world was a good place and come back to PM and politics!
I know there’s huge amount of feintly football related b*ll*cks talked on this site and I’m one of the worst culprits but at least it’s, on the whole amusing, inoffensive (mostly) b*ll*cks.
I’m going to echo Mr.tabs above and politely request that we leave politics and religion (aside from Arsenal) a million miles away from this bar.
PS for SV: Last year I made a huge mistake, as a new poster, to link what I thought was a nice piece from PM on this site. After doing some research, I realised that my admiration was horribly misplaced and I was, quite rightly, banished to the naughty corner for a week. PM is off the agenda here. Best, I think, to accept it and move on as there’s far too much good stuff in the bar to trade cross words on behalf of people who really don’t deserve the attention that they seek. Hope that makes sense.
Morning ‘brighteners’ for all please Mr.baramn, one for yourself and as H2H said @ #135,
Peace!! π
Mr.Barman!
tabs – I’ll try not to get overtly political but if you find #151 offensive, well, I take offense with you taking offense. You should do some more research and a lot less PC talking out of your arse, with all due respect — it might save some of your loved ones some day — but we will remain PC until the end. That’s brilliant tabs! Keep smokin’ your cloudy substances if it pleases you. I’ll keep laughing at your funny jokes, when they’re funny, but not when they’re not funny just because you come across as a funny man. Love to be more specific but such truth displeases ‘holic so. Fine. We’ll all be PC and sanitized here and not let facts get in the way.
It could be Suarez, it could politics, it could be the royals, it could be AW, it could be our lack of spending, and it could be whatever. Bottom line is, you guys silence informed articulate speech which you don’t like. That’s the bottom line. Back in the day it had a name, Communism (or Kommunism where I’m from — thank you very much π ).
tabs, I agree – Dalglish will get found out big style this season. That, and other footy chat…..
Morning zico, I’m banking on it too.
The same old ‘Arsenal won’t make the top 4 this season and Liverpool/LWCs related bollocks about them being better teams than us’ when a match hasn’t even been played is grating already. Do we need a Gra Tin perhaps?
Sorry, that’s as humorous as I can manage at the mo’….
SV, this time I’m not going to apologise. Telling someone they’re “talking out of their arse, with all due respect” is glaringly contradictory, and is most definitely not – as you believe it to be – “informed”, or for that matter “articulate”.
And – Holic, I don’t wish to usurp your chair here – it could not be politics or the royals. Who gives a flying arse about either of them, this is a football blog.
‘informed articulate’ – dats the funniest thing i’ve ever read on here – and i’ve read stuff that’s made me chuckle for days –
i might even have to force myself to start reading your cliche riddled regurgitated garbage masquerading as insight again, in detail – if you’re going to carry on coming up with corkers like that – or better still why not take ‘holic’s advice in 162 – jus’ sayin’.
Up The Arse!
TS – If it’s PM that blows ‘holic’s stack so then I’ll steer clear of that. I still don’t understand why it’s personal with old GH or how PM offended GH to such an extent, but frankly, I don’t care. Although I think it’s unfair. It’s his site after all. I agree to drop the PM inquisition then. Don’t agree with it but it’s not a big enough fight for me. So f*ck it.
I’m more concerned about getting a no nonsense CB like Lugano. Damn it!
Tabs, you know what I meant π
And pretend to be innocent – You hate Spurs too (and hate isn’t too strong of a word here), just think of Spurs fans celebrating against Arsenal and it’d get your juices flowing ;).
I’m not too sure what PM did but if I understood it correctly, he wrote lies about Arsenal fans’ behavior in Copenhagen which got them banned from Arsenal matches?
And having served in a military, I take personal insult in what he did to the British Soldiers. To publish a fake photo of a soldier “abusing” a TERRORIST is beyond hideous, it’s treachery.
H2H – I don’t know if you’ve seen my posts at 136 and 143, but I’d love to get a reply for them. I know you meant no harm in it, but it’s important to me to get my message through.
*And DON’T pretend π
zico & TS,
If one looks at things objectively they would see that Liverphool has strengthened to a much greater degree than we have this offseason so far. So maybe they can overtake us? Objectively and logically speaking of course.
KD has spent like a drunken sailor. That, I cannot refute.
Right, I’m briefly off to the rat-infested basement to see what’s going on over at Tabloid365.com.
Going to need a stiff one to be able to ignore the stench, so a treble mezcal please barman.
Stingy,
Pm is far far from being one of us he shit on his own and desereves every ounce of hatred he gets from Holic et all, The mans a class A C###
Anyone for a mid afternoon beverage
I’ll join you Chippy.
A real slow English day for me so I’ll take my time over this icy little number.
Snir @177 , no harm done mate π , and yeh you’re right , I hate Spurs π
CG,
Good Man these monday morning/afternoons after a heavy weekend are buggers so always best to get back on the horse as the saying goes π cliperty clop clipperty clop !!
Snir.
I’ve read your posts, well articulated and I see your side of the story. My intention was not to offend you in any way, nor was it to question your football knowledge (it wasn’t you that compared the Copa to the Euros, which IMHO is like comparing chalk with the vilist of smelliest cheese) and I would never question your commitment to goonerhood.
I’m afraid I could never compare Suarez to Viera, I can’t remember Paddy threatening to strike or bad mouthing his team mates in public. I also can’t remember talking to any Arsenal fans that were glad to see him go, which is pretty much the concencus of many (not all ofcourse) in and around Amsterdam, the fans were pretty much sick and tired of him and his antics.
I am however glad that you do recognise the difference in being a home grown local supporter and a supporter from afar, there is a difference even if it’s just a small cultural one, once again, I mean no disrespect whatsoever to our foriegn legion, I’ve never met Ollie or Lars, but from what I’ve read, I’d put my hand in the fire to testify that they are gooners through and through, as I’m sure you are too.
I visit this site because I love the way Mr Holic mixes optimism with humour and nostalga to bring us, in my opinion, the most varied Arsenal blog on the web, also for the witty comments in the bar and to share a laugh. It will never be my intention to allienate or offend anyone, well, unless he’s a Spud or a WUM ofcourse. π
Anyways, enough of this hoo-haa. I’m not much of a breakfast man (i’m never up before noon) and I don’t have time for lunch, but I do dabble in a little thing I like to call Beerunch, you’re all welcome to join.
Line them up barman. Cheers.
The only other Arsenal related site I visit is ofcourse the daily creamy bloggy goodness, provided by Mr Arseblogger, who is as many of you may know also a fan from overseas, no-one would dare question his goonerdom neither. These two blogs are far and away the best Arsenal blogs, no ’bouts a doubt it.
Tabs, TS, H2H – well said above.
SV – may I suggest that the problem is that you are one of those who feels the need for everybody to agree with you. If they don’t, they are “wrong” and you seem to need them to admit it.
You should have been here long enough now to know that all opinions are welcome. Abuse, arrogance and a failure to respect others’ opinions are not.
Religion causes problems all over the world and as soon as it was introduced here, the whole tone of the “debate” changed.
I believe this excellent blog is for other things and personally would like it to remain so. ;(
Sorry CG – well said, too π
H2H – another great post , full of common sense . Cheers for the Beer .
@186 -I think an honorary mention should also go to Yogi at ACLF , and to Tim Stilman , who is consistently brilliant both in his weekly posts over at Arseblog , and on Vital Arsenal .
Uniting not dividing, that’s the proper spirit. Beers all around and a tip o’ the hat to Trev @187. Up the Arse!
Amen to that 8ball and Trev.
Better go easy on these drinks. Work dinner-dance tonight and while the CG Management can live with a half-cut CG, she would not appreciate an absolutely bladdered and incoherent one falling in through the front door.
I do enjoy LD’s posts on Arseblog tabs, have to admit I don’t know too much about Yogi, although with your smarter then the average bear reccomendation, I may just take a gander.
Cheers Trev @ #187.
tabs & H2H – ACLF, Arseblog and anything from Mr.Stillman my fave Arsenal reads too. Gunnerblog, Goodplaya & E.Lower best of the others IMO. I’ll also admit to a daily read of LG just to gauge the temperature of the BBBs/D&Gs and to satisfy my masochist streak but will usually jump in a bath of Dettol afterwards (that really came out all wrong didn’t it?) π
Another round for any that are…er….around.
Good choice, good choice, TS. I am not even tempted by LG though, even for comedy value :p
Ollie,
Let’s just call it a guilty ‘pleasure’. I find it good practice for trying to raise a wry smile having read stuff that you fundamentally disagree with. I find the BTA mental images of GTC and G.Gervais very helpful π
Doin’ a bit of catching up – H2H @129 – niiice comparison work – i like the idea of a nearly but not quite Arsenal side – your Lenny HENRY up top, maybe Bryan ADAMS at CH, with possibly Francis WILSON (the weather man) between the sticks, Louis ARMSTRONG out wide and JFK playing off the main striker etc.
A cider for me please barman!
I see that Pravda are telling that Lukasz is back and ready to challenge Szcz for the #1 slot. Chances for more wry smiles or is that a little on the cruel side? (I’ll agree to the need for competition)
Oh… and our world famous translator of Dolphin could be on his way to Turkey. If it’s true, he deserves a decent send-off.
A replacement would be nice… π
Heh TS.
.con never fail to get the headlines to infuriate the masses.
‘EbouΓ© is a Pass Master’.
AL @ #196
Roberto instead of Terry Mancini as a CB?
in ?
Ollie @ #199
e.g. “Gervinho saved us from dizzy prices”?
Given the current issues that we’re facing, that wasn’t one of the PR teams greatest moments. So much for +ve spin….
AL @ #196
Or even Henry? That way I could link panthers to turkeys to dolphins and justify an open CMC for the rest of the day π
Ah, I see tabs is at the cease again π
*claps from the pavillion*
crease
Lovely .
Good Stuff Trev@187 .
TS – Can’t disagree with the other sites you mention . If BTA helps you with your mental image of Gareth the C and Geoff , then my work is done π
Rarely go there now . Would say that Pedro’s blogs are simply irritating because of his profound negativity and laughably self-important rants on what needs to be done . Geoff Gervais’s posts are another thing entirely , xenophobic bordering on the rascist , and just so lacking in any credible insight , he can only be pitied .
AL – Room for Ludovic Kennedy up front ?
Cheers TS *raises bat*
Ludovic Kennedy, brilliant!!! π
Charlie instead of Ted Drake?
Touche π Sid James instead of Alex as midfield schemer ?
Paul instead of Alan Smith
Nice shirts, shame about his aerial ability
tabs,
Yuk, yuk, yuk π
π π
Nat King instead of Cashley?
Ok last one , Naomi Campbell instead of Sol at the back ? Talented , but a bit of a prima dona .
This could see us to 300 TS π
H2H, what have you started? Well done, beers for that man.
tabs,
You wouldn’t want her making a two footed, flying challenge….
Good thinking TS , Naomi you’re dropped . We need a good manager , Heather Graham ?
A bit of a prima donna, which one?? Naomi or Sol? π
I love the name Naomi, it’s I moan, backwards.
Ah beers, cheers.
TS @193, visited LG yesterday and the comments section was the worst I have ever seen on any type of blog, even the author had to come on to tell them to tone it down.vile..
If your going to have Naomi Campbell at CB you’ll defo need Yves St Lauren at RB..
Heh Noel @ #219 π
Aaron in the kitchen, Gordon in mid-field?
Orville Wright instead of Ian, flying there up front?
Or is that Wilbur?
Hows about;
Vincent instead of David Price, he would of really scared defences.
Mark instead of Lee Chapman, at least he had one shot on target. (sorry, maybe a bit bad taste)
Now TS, you are taking liberties I didn’t dare taking due to the different spelling of the names.
tabs,
As far as I’m concerned, Heather can take any position that she cares to π
Heh H2H, extremely bad taste indeed.
*no no no I didn’t laugh. at all. hides*
Homer instead of Peter?
If were leting the ladies in, then Reet instead of Emanuel, she was after all, “the finest girl you’ll ever want to meet’, ask Bob, eeer sorry Jackie Wilson
Nice one Ollie!
Horatio marshalling the defence instead of Sammy?
1. Francis Wilson
2. Clive Anderson .
3. Horatio Nelson .
4. Sid James .
5. Menzies Campbell .
6. Bryan Adams .
7. Charlie Drake .
8. Lenny Henry .
9. JFK ( capt )
10. Ludovic Kennedy
11. Louis Armstrong .
Manager ; Heather Graham π
Heh Ollie π
Sir Geoffrey instead of Don as manager? He’d be into financial fair play, surely?
Blimey , getting to work on team 2 .
TS , Ollie , Noel73 and H2H – brilliant stuff π
Superb tabs. I’d still be playing Homer at #6 though π
Homer, dΓ³h nice one TS.
Not a bad team that tabs.
Neil, one small step for Geordie (RIP) π
Grace Kelly dancing in midfield instead of doing the chicken walk?
Chippy to be relaced by Carol, Mike, Greg, Marcia, Peter, Jan, Bobby and Cindy, We could also get Alice in to fill the sweeper role.
Sounds like a great bunch H2H
*picks up Ollie’s coat and leaves*
1. The Red Baron .
2. Yves St Lauren
3. Nat King Cole
4. Gordon Ramsey
5. Sir George Young .
6. Homer Simpson .
7. Neil Armstrong .
8. Orville Wright
9. Wilbur Wright
10. Paul Smith .
11. The Brady Bunch .
Manager : Sir Geoffrey Howe .
We have a massive squad tabs but a bit light in goalies π
Right, that’s the transfer market sorted….
Goalie surnames that i can think of TS that we might be able to use – Moss , swindon , Platt , Kelsey , Jennings , Barnett , Taylor , Miller ah … Windy Miller ?
Liz Taylor was always a good back up keeper I thought
Found one (GK). Josh instead of Geoff Barnett. Actually, that would have been an improvement π
Just plain old Rimmer (Red Dwarf) instead of Jimmy?
Liz Taylor gets my vote , tho all good π
TS – showing my ignorance , who’s Josh Barnett ?
Correction at #243 – Arnold J.
Stirling (Moss)
Just (Jennings)
Aaah…. insanity restored π
tabs
An American mixed martial artist. Will admit to Wiki for that one
*embarrassed*
Those Jennings books were terrific . Idont suppose we can sneak in his best mate , Darbyshire (?) instead of Jack ?
More than made up for by Stirling Moss TS π
One more:
Trevor instead of Malcolm π
Allegedly a big Gooner too?
Jack (bish-up) Darbyshire, fantastic!
*wipes tears from eyes, wonders if anyone else will get it?*
π π – didn’t know he was a gooner . Thought he was just a cricket man .
Should also find a place for Kate Hudson if there’s any justice in this world . I feel a C team coming on π
C team? Yes please…
tabs @ #251
My source may be a bit dubious but I so want to believe it.
Can anyone here prove me wrong or right?
Will have a look TS .
Ginger in for Joe Baker ?
Cheers tabs, will give me a chance to fetch my pipe π
Oh yes Trev, get in! π
Midge for Ian?
Was going to have Natalie in for Ashley – better singer than Cheryl – but sort of beaten to it with Nat King.
Not in this list TS , but some pretty good names nevertheless . Brian Walden – get in . On the downside Kilroy Silk π
http://www.arseweb.com/other/celebs.html#media
Condalisa – excuse the spelling – in for Pat ?
Surely Kate Moss has a claim.
The goal line is all hers π
Ginger Baker π Trev , sure you don’t want Cheryl ? Baker that is , not Cole .
Midge Ure – player of the day π
Re: Noel73 and Yves St. Lauren at RB: Ha Ha, that takes the cake. Er, perfume? π
Kate Moss , how was she missed ? Thank you Ollie .
Condaleeza Rice π Trev , brilliant π
Lucille in for Alan – sorry, seem to have some kind of cross-over team going on here. Women with men’s surnames – probably a team in that too ?
Heh Ollie. She beats Stirling… nose down.
*searches for WT*
Bwian Walden a Gooner, well I never….
‘Condalisa’ Rice, excellent!
Thelma in for Stewart Houston (Asst Manager)
Yes Trev, the ‘c’ in C Team stands for crossover π
Roy Jenkins in for David – looking for 300 now! π
Shirley Williams , a terrier in the centre ?
Natalie in for George Woods for the ladies team, Tiger in for the lads, who knows, maybe he has cat like reflexes.
Just when I thought it was safe to come in the bar for a “cold one” [after all the “discussions” with our bar’s own wind-up merchant], I read the latest posts, and I am completely flummoxed.
Guess I’ll just post up in my shadowy corner over here and sip on something smooth…
*sigh*
Anyone instead of Denilson ? π
I think we’re half-way to a P team (politicians) team.
Perhaps best not to go there…..
Precisely Trev @ #275.
Applies to dear old pal Al unfortunately as well π
@265 err? is she not the bird that makes it ? not up on my perfumes. Still has as much chance as playing as kate moss though π
Dennis Neilson Trev π
Bibi in for Viv Anderson on the crossover team?
Heh, Trev.
Oliver Wright just been seen having lunch with old red top sarah ferguson…bloody turncoat..
Hey Lonestar
Do tell us what’s got you f’lummoxed’ as we nned to keep our suppliers ij a good frame of mind (PS: PIK still MIA)
Cheers π
Tabs @ 279 – brilliant, wish i’d thought of that π
Cheers Trev .
Talking of Suppliers TS , where on earth is PIK ? Hasn’t been about for yonks .
I see you’ve got your pipe . I have filled the CMC with Chinese Green , and would be grateful for first impressions . π
tabs @ #285
Er…. Kerr-Pao?
Very agreeable. Fills you up nicely although half-an-hour later you’re left wanting some more π
Re: PIK – @#283 I have asked LG if he has an update. Very worrying…
“Just like that” – Tommy Cooper π
Sorry @ 287 – that was my first impression for Tabs, but you lot are in so quick !
Trev π TS π
Lonestar Gooner is flummoxed ‘cos he’s one of those Yankee chaps from the wrong side of the pond.
I keep trying to point out that these people are just the wrong sort to have around here but you stupid buggers will not bloody listen.
Now, where was I, or rather, where am I ??
Cuddling your Llama PHW ?
290, 291 Brilliant stuff. Anyone for a quick run at 300?
I’m with you Nas . Let’s get the beers in first . What you having ?
Aah, PHW!
You’re on fine bigotted form today old bean. Try to steer clear of Lady N’s pipe and you’ll soon recover.
Careful though, or you’ll arouse Prof TES and he’ll start writing bloody internal memos again.
I also fear that IPA’s going to have a heart attack any minute now. He’s chaperoning a huge American delegation that’s arriving this week with the The NY Red Bulls (inc. Chatty Stan) and he’s decked out the Entire Club Level facilites in Stars and Stripes with free energy drinks all round for those that earn over Β£250K per year. He also told me he’s resisting your attempts to put pictures of Maggie Thatcher and The Belgrano in the Boca’s changing room. Please go easy on the fella π
As it happens, I am. Must be why I have the raging hump.
Anyway, what is it with Llamas these days ? I mean, do they really need TWO L’s.
I’m sure in my day they made do, perfectly well, with one.
Llamas are just too greedy these days. Do you suppose some of our players are llamas . . . ?
Do you, Takeabowson, do you . . ?
Tabs, I’m drinking Bitter End Pale Ale, near the end of a 6 pack. What’s yours? TS?
I do , Sir , I do . I agree with you Sir , always . π
Free the ” L ” one !
Lager and Lime here Nas , or as I prefer to call it Lager and Green π
TS – speaking of Lady Nina and Llamas, only this afternoon she was showing me her camel’s toe, or some such.
Smeely things aren’t they, camels ?
Pint of Peroni please ‘nasri and another pipe full of ‘Pretty Green’, just to re-check the quality levels for tabs.
Cheers!
*raises cap and bat to the crowd in the bar*
Shit, fucking typewriter, that was clearly supposed to say “smelly”.
What ? Check what I’m writing ! Dashed fool idea!
Well in TS – quality !
How about a quick run at 400. Sound difficult? Maybe at first but remember, we are fueled by “Pretty Green’ so sit back and think of England. π
Sixpence short of a shilling, the lot of you π
Apologies, late back from the hospital with the management. Will put something together tomorrow night.
400 should be a walk in the park…
Just saw that Goonerholic chappie standing outside shaking his head.
Do you suppose this sort of chitter-chatter was quite what he had in mind when he started up this blog thingy ?
Quiet now ! He’s just come in !
Sir Peter Sir,
Just to let you know that the Americans land at LHR tonight and that Lady N and her fleet of lamas are all on their way there to collect them. They’ll be welcomed with an energy drink reception staying at her residence in North London and she’s told me to assure you sir that all of their rooms interconnect to her own chambers so that she’s able to administer the personal service that you and her discussed Sir.
I’ve also asked her to contact you directly Sir, regarding decorations for the Bocas’ changing rooms. She advised me that she has several ideas well in hand.
Yours bowing and scraping,
IPA
I do love these Stars and Wipes weekends .
I was away for too long … am only up to 239 and am typing this thru tears of laughter in mine eyes – ludovic, naomoi, heather, nat king vincent and too many others to list – genius gentlemen and i’ve got loads to get thru
Up The Arse!
Ahh PHW,
I hope we have removed that daft sumo-wrestler kit. Let us see you in your au-natural splendor.
Let me reassure you, my llamas are not greedy; just discriminatory. They won’t take weed from broads, and they don’t like associating with camels and other dromedaries. Those camels (and their toes are a right bit smelly).
As far as PIK’s location is concerned, I, too, am quite worried. I loaned him an Appaloosa to go in serach of some lost llama’s and additional “proprietary” ingredients. Lo and behold, the horse (I named her Old Reddie) returned riderless.
I fear he has been “pinched” by Dr.Z’s pursuers, or worse yet, the folks running the Asylum-from-whence-infrequent-missives-come. I dunno what to think.
The source of my flummoxery, er flummoxness… is not my location, but the barrage of plies and replies some hundred drinks ago. I’ve always had my concerns about mein Kanadien freund, but … well, I hope the barkeep’s intervention was enough to quell things. It was beginning to unsettle the llamas…
*sip*
Anyways, here’s something for you gents to ponder. A couple nights ago, I dreamt that Mrs. Lonestar informed me that she was leaving me to go on holiday with Denilson —– yes, Denilson. I dunno what to make of THAT.
Ideas?
*searches for antacids*
pardon i was only up to 229 hadn’t come across orville, gordon or yves st. hahahahahaaaa!
Ureds!
Hols,
I do hope all is well with the Management.
Do have a drink on me tab.
Lonestar , great post . Perhaps you are concerned that your wife has had enough of life in the fast lane ? π
Evening ‘Holic , AL .
TS – just re-read @ 294 – great stuff π
Lonestar, No wonder she is going on holiday with Denilson. He is a good dancer, plays a devilish little ukulele and has all the women eating out of his hand. Not to mention he is probably on his way as we speak to some of the loveliest beaches in the Southwestern Half-Hemisphere. Mrs. Lonestar has not lost all of her faculties, I would dare say. π
Who’d have thought there’d have a couple of mancini’s to choose from – fine work TS – Henry gets my vote
for Dennilson how ’bout Dennis Neilson – not pretty i know but every team needs a bit o’ nasty in it.
Ureds!
By the way, if stories are true that Eboue is headed for Galatasaray, which footballer should we sign to fill his spot in the comic relief role? And, no Crouch is not a good answer. He stopped dancing the robot years ago.
Now just listen hear everybody.
I’ve just been giving Lady Nina a quick head’s up, and I’ll give you all one too !
If there are indeed Americans coming this weekend, it is most certainly without my knowledge, or consent.
Stars and fucking stripes all over the Club Level – never !
Not while I’m Chairman !
What ?!
Well nobody’s bloody told me yet !
Changing Rooms for the Argies ? Are you mad ?!
There’s plenty of room in the car park for their sort !
I suppose if I have to entertain them, I could ply them with some rather disgusting plonk.
You know, get them a couple of Mal Vinos !
AL@317 – DN already in , see @279 π
I’d go for Peter Taylor . I know he’s a spud , but he does a mean Norman Wisdom .
@319 Quality π brilliant .
Thankyou, Takeabowson, now fuck off !
Pardon see tabs got there first with dennis neilson – still reading them thru fully – still making me howl – liz taylor and horatio nelson – top, top stuff Goooners!
Yes Sir π π
PHW, I don’t want to mess up your fun or your pun but as an upper class twit you should at least be able to spell correctly. Mal vinos indeed!
Mates,
I’m not sure you were any more helpful in advice than old ‘Cus would have been. After the dream, I awoke in a cold sweat, and was “this” close to scooping up my baby, Lady Gooner and heading for the hills.
The dream had a profound effect on me – was even contemplating firing the Lonestar Farms management team. But that was a few days ago.
PHW – how would you handle division in your boardro…, oh, right.
*holds head in hands*
Where’s the key to the CMC?
I guess you lot have maybe had enough, but me i had no idea you were gonna run with this like you have .. so i’m still up and er running –
A front 3(?) playing in perfect harmony – the frank stapleton singers
apologies if anyone’s already done it
What, no place for Bruce Hornsby?
Gladstone Small (i’m going bilingual now)
Emmanuelle 2 (Petit or Eboue – )
Now listen Lonestar Gonads, or whatever your name is, If your lady wife is dreaming of a brazilian, I would give her one.
That’s my advice, old boy !
As for your other ponderings, well life IS confusing for all of us.
Only the other day, someone left a huge lump of plasticine in my office, and i don’t know what to make of it.
Oh God, will someone please explain to Lonestar Gonads what “plasticine” is. I don’t suppose he’s ever heard of that, either!
AL , are they in the male or female team ?
Get in there holic
LOL, Mr Chairman.
When I was a child, I played with plasticine (more correctly known as play-doh) along with what you and your compatriots would so uncouthly call aluminium…btw, you could send payment for the comfort-llama you used a while ago.
They don’t grow on trees, you know. π
Verily, verily, I say unto all you Holics, with PHW’s leadership we can’t miss the Beer-Cup championship this year. We CAN’T miss. π
I just gave Mrs. Lonestar the credit card and told her to buy herself something nice and PRETEND it was from Denilson. What with all his impish, IPAnema-ness.
TABS i fear splitting them up would render them almost useless – in much the same way as when Frank and Alan were wrenched from one another they were never really the same again as separate entities – Boy those 2 weaved intricate, subtle and pretty patterns (quite underrated methinks – monday night supping etc is making me sentimental) for anyone that was there – not unlike The Frank Stapleton Singers (ahem!).
And of course AS had the equally underrated ‘tache afro combo!
UP The Arse!
And I was told there ain’t no sanity clause……
Nutters, each and every one.
How come Brian Rix never made the team (still going strong and injured less than Diaby)?
Will Young in for Big Willie?
The good Dr. – of course trixy Rixy nice spot sir – Kid Jensen? again apologies if etc
AL – Good point re The Stapleton Singers – straight in the Unisex team π
Evening Dr Z – straight in with Brian Rix – class π
AL you’re outdoing yourself π Deneise Lewis ?
Surely the whole Michael Thomas thing is up for grabs now! – ta tabs
oh i say – Terry Thomas!
π and who started the move – only Aleisha Dixon
Tabs the proof is here –
http://youtu.be/xYeIlI3gutk
Oh I say!!!
Best football moment ever AL
And was that Anna Nicole Smith in the middle playing it on from Aleisha thru to Terry?
Tabs despite everything Arsene’s brought us – and the sensible among us understand how much that is – by Jove i believe you’re right.
Up The Arse!
all in time added on cos Natasha Richardson went down with cramp
you know i’d forgotten Natasha’s role in that triumph – fair play 2 u
329Goonerholic
What, no place for Bruce Hornsby?
=====
Sorry mate, that’s just the way it is.
Coat!!!
Quality H2H
Its getting to be a right good crack on here. Ever thought about a forum ‘holic? All the best to the management by the way.
We’re only 150 drinks behind the arses. Can we catch up? We can do it for the management! π
Camel Toe. Derivation?
Just out of interest, of course. Shape? Smell?
There must be at least 400 opinions about this, surely.
*Pulls out yellow card*
Nasri, you have been cautioned, young man π
Next question then: Whose toes are more attractive, a camel’s or a llama’s? You should know, LG. π
Right, I have to pack the laptop away now – off to the South West tomorrow.
Missing the Ems Cup this year. “Enjoy” everyone who’s going – say hello to TH14.
Thanks fellas, for all the fun on here today. Some absolutely brilliant posts and laughs.
Cheers, COYRRRRRRSSS ! π π
Nearly 10 of Yer Olde English football minutes but worth a look IMO – as TABS said above it’s maybe ‘the best football moment ever’ –
Pre-Match – Heather’s got a wicked glint in her good eye and PHW gets an honourable mention – as does genuine ledge Rocky Rocastle – the rest is as they say – hysteria!!! Up The Arse!
http://youtu.be/bQmO3S2eLPE
Roy Castle in for Rocky
So thats how graham roberts ended up with a trumpet up his arse..you live and learn..
LG, I’ve heard many a Texan like to yell “hook ’em horns” so was just wondering, How are your llamas’ horns. π
Llama toes are more enticing than camel toes. More fulsome in the furriness category – a mature man appreciates a bit of fur.
Woof!
Alpaca toes are quite nice. But for sheer sexiness…Mrs. Lonestar’s toes are tops. Unfortunately, you fellas won’t get the chance to appreciate them.
Nas,
The horns are always fair… very fair, indeed π
Hook ’em [horns].
Aah! Makes the hair on the back o’ my hands stand up
Noel73 @362 – Graham Roberts – didn’t he partner Pat Butcher at the back for Rangerrrrrs! Rickeeeeeee Villa come ‘ere you overrated, did one half-decent fing in gawd knows ‘ow many years that won the fukwits one of their few trophies of the modernish era.
Up The Arse!
No les that was Audrey Roberts , she used to do rickeeee’s hair before important matches but lost her way when there faaking wer’nt any..
Thanks Esso.
Forum? Blimey, too complicated for this simple soul π
Thanks all re management. Nothing major, just a day procedure. Has now taken possession of the iPad for her Scrabble fix.
We live on the edge here…
Nice one mate. Cant make this weekend, more’s the pity, could do with some uplifting conversation with some decent types. Never mind, it will happen soon, one way or the other. Be sure to tell Paul he’s a fucking Man Utd supporting cunt from me geez.
Noel – of course Audrey Roberts and Pat Butcher, some pairing – no wonder scottish football’s not what it was
Re: Lonestar @364: Indeed no, but on the other hand, maybe Denilson will. π
Does that mean we will have to settle for alpaca? I suppose I shouldn’t complain if you recommend them, LG….
LG @365: Excellent news about the quality of your llama horns. How is their horniness, if I may ask? π
Just wondering how will we meet the New World quota tonight without the contribution of SV if he indeed complies with the ban. Whether posting as Stingy Voyageur, Stingy Voyeur, Theo Van Nasregas or Theo van Nasarshavregas, the man could go on. Sometimes interesting, sometimes not so much, and sometimes a bit much, but at least our quota was being met. Maybe Tabs should include him in his next rant along with the infamous Ben ….
And that is not to mention the continuing AWOL status of PIK, our other late night contributor from the North American continent. Sometimes Snir is around, I assume when in the U.S. and not Israel. But if not these people, who will step up? Lonestar, are you out there?? Carolina Gunner, haven’t heard from you in a while …
We won’t make 400 tonight unless I get some help …
By
when
do
bt8bbnn – First of all, as of 3rd of July I am a permanent late contributor – The next time I’ll be in Israel would be next season π
I’m here with you buddy.
Two things I gotta say that will definitely open the flood gates.
One is this : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTebxpuryvI&feature=youtu.be
Absolutely heart warming, and more.
And the second thing is (drum-roll please!!) – My facebook just told me Lars has a birthday today, I say he deserves a good preseason party cause LINBT, (Lars is not buying tonight!) as one of our most loyal and articulate Holics, a joy to read!
Happy birthday mate, this one is on me (your tab is gonna be empty for the first time in the history of the Holic bar!) π
you need some help?
Just got a warning for ‘posting too fast’. Better desist.
Ah thanks for the heads up Snir . Thought Lars was quiet today .
A very happy birthday Lars . Have a beer on me . I’m paying , honest .
So, our friends and neighbours line-up.
Felicity Kendall,
Beyonce Knowles, Mary Beth Lacey, Julia Roberts, Katie Holmes,
Jill Gascoigne, Sandro Bullock,
Grace Jones, Jo Durie, Amy Stewart, Sam Fox.
Manager – Clare Francis
…and happy birthday Lars. π
‘Holic @384 – a great line up π would give the real Spuds a game I reckon .
Nas,
I’m here to do what I can, my man. Happy Birthday, Lars!
Re #374, like all ruminants, the llamas and alpacas have certain measures of hornyness…I believe llamas have the edge.
Re #381 —-
100% man. Right there fellas. 100% man.
Re#381 fantastic is there the same footage of Bergkamp goals
Unfortunately not.
Believe it or not, I’d rather watch a footage of DB’s assists than his goals.
New Zealand, Now there’s the missing ingredient!
Snir, great video at 381. TH14 is the man, or perhaps, l’homme.
LG, I knew I could count on you. Llama nation!
Esso, Yeoman’s work. Muchas gracias, senyor.
Happy Birthday Lars. You de man.
Righty Oh.
Monday is the day that I close my bar (yes it’s a real one, but I can only wish for drinkers of the above calibre) I’ve just been to the neighbourhood bar (we have a great working relationship) and I’m a little bit shitfaced. (nobody noticed the difference π )
Sir ‘holic, glad to hear that the managements ” check up” was only routine.
Snir, I hope you’ve accepted my heartfelt apolligies/ explantion.
Just as you asked me for a reply I implor you to extend me the same courtosy (artighet in Swedish), I enjoy your posts and overseas perspective and I hope that we are cool. I enjoy banter between differing opinions but once again I will state catergorically that my opinion was never meant to insult anyone, especially not you, Thanx.
On a different note, a very happy birthday to Lars, or as they say in the land of the viking…..fΓΆdelsedagen!! Have a drink on my tab mate, Skol!!
Esso, this site is getting better and better by the day, we don’t need a forum, the “crack” speaks for itself. Stick around and join in the fun, mate.
To all other ‘holics, well played with the name change game, some fuckin’ brilliant additions and I’m sure if Arsene was reading then his shopping list will have increased…!!!??!!! OK maybe that’s a bit far fetched but we can only dream, right??
Drinks all round!!!! (I’m good for it……… Honest!!!!)
Re: LG @387, Maybe that’s why Tabs is so interested in llamas. Now the picture is starting to get a little clearer …
bt8bbnn – You wanna reach 400? Well then start thinking about different monikers for yourself cause Nasri is a greedy bastard!
We’d definitely reach 400 trying to find a moniker for you π
H2H, How shitfaced are you? You are adding more exclamation marks than normal, but I’m sure it conveys the gist of what you are feeling. Have a good one. π
Yeah, Nasri isn’t sounding too good these days …
The drinker formerly known as bt8bbnn?
Well in, The drinker formerly known as bt8bbnn.
BT8ballbutNasriwon’tsignacontract.
I am indeed shitfaced, in fact if you have a moment I am a 50 (true) story building with a big fuck off neon light above with the text “shitfaced r us” flashing in full glory, that is visable to the naked eye from over 50km’s away. THe lokal AA has banned me from their get togthers, a fact that I am not dissapointed with, for as I’ve previosly stated, I am not an alcholic, I am a drunk, I don’t do meetings.
Congrats on your 400, a drink of choice for you sir, I highly reccomend a pint of vodka (TaTS style… hic)
Sorry, I forgot the expaination marks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
bt8bbnn – You got the 400, but that’s only half season, maybe you won’t get the 500 and start playing poorly the second half of the season just like Nasri – Unless you change your moniker ;).
H2H – I’m not offended as I totally understand where you’re coming from as I did get an upbringing of supporting a team. In my case it’s gotten to fanatical proportions so much so that I have a Maccabi Tel-Aviv tattoo so I know exactly what you mean when it’s just “isn’t the same” as a fan who doesn’t know the Seven Sister Road, the Arsenal station, Highbury etc.
But, and this is a big but, just like I previously stated, I’m the kind of guy who only has black or white, meaning if I fell in love with Arsenal (thanks to a certain DB in 95) then it isn’t just my “preferred european/non-Israeli club”, it’s a club I support, there’s a difference.
So, I do get what you’re saying, but being the kind of guy I am I think I make up for not being raised to support the Arsenal by learning everything I can, being interested in the Arsenal 24/7 (and getting updates which drive me crazy π ), going to England about 3 times a year and most importantly – I made my dad and brothers Arsenal fans.
So to conclude, I do understand what you mean, but I’m doing my best to learn everything about the Arsenal so I’ll know everything about the club just like someone from N5 would.
500 anyone? Maybe Tabs will be restless tonight, and if so anything is possible …
Nice one Snir, respect.
But……………..
I’m from N7, Holloway baby, N7, which I’m almost sure, well it was when I was a kid, that Ashburton Grove falls under. (I asked , but no-one has corrected me)
Never the less, thanx for the retort and I look forward to disageeing with you in the future. π
Only joshing, care to share a vodka shot?
Snir, You will notice the construction of “behind the 8 ball but not nasri” actually in itself is not a ringing endorsement of Nasri as a player, man, predatory beast, or snivelling rodent. Indeed, the last word before “nasri” is “not” so before he gives us the final “fuck off” I am giving him the benefit of the doubt. If he is an Arsenal player this season, I will be supporting him, even with my present moniker. (Besides, I’m too tired tonight to make a real run at 500.)
H2H – I just posted on my FB a few days ago that Greygoose Cranberries is God’s way of saying – “I love you” so I think I’ll take you up on your offer ;).
And about disagreeing? Well, in order to disagree with me on a permanent basis your moniker has to be TvN or SV :).
And TBH, as soon as I posted that post I had the feeling that N5 was only Highbury so I googled it and found out my mistake :), I’m still no postcode expert, but I’m getting there π
Nasri was too tired to make a run at the title too π
I noticed the not on your moniker but never fully understood the whole moniker as I’m not that much of a pool/snooker fan.
Snir, I suppose I come off better in this comparison since Arsenal are paying Nasri, and Goonerholic is not paying me (last I checked) so if I’m tired I can just say so. π
410. A landmark! Snir wanted that one, I bet.
Buenas noches.
Good night mate, SV’s ban has made this place a sleepy and quiet place π
SG great vid of Thierry at 381 – is there a similar record anywhere of Lenny’s contribution to the mighty Arse cause?
AL – I’m not sure I know what you mean. Please explain (I’m not that good with nicknames π )
Sorry SG – it goes back to where this name game lark began. In posting 129 H2H humourously compared Thierry HENRY with comedian (ahem!) Lenny HENRY – that got picked up on and run with pretty much all night long – as you can see from many postings above – Hope that makes sense.
Good to hear ’twas nowt serious with her ladyship holic – and nice work with the ladies tottingham eleven – might i suggest that one lily white Allen might be warming the bench.
Up The Arse!
And many happy returns Lars!
Evening Holic & Holics,
H2H@402, brilliant mate. You’ll have a nice hangover today I bet.
Had a good day out yesterday, I got to meet the legendary Patrick Vieira at the LA Galaxy v Man City game in LA. I’m sitting in Garry Cook’s box( CEO/Man City) and I’m introduced to PV before the game & he warmly shook my hand and I nearly tore his arm off. We had a polite conversation, I told him I was a lifelong Gooner, born and raised in Islington blah blah blah. I also told him we needed him back at Arsenal, he smiled when I said that.
So I got to see Man City play and Clichy played the 1st Half, Kolarov the 2nd. Clichy looked a little more bulky, like he’s been working on his upper body w/ Micah Richards. He appeared to play a little more conservatively, less runs offensively and a little more stay at home defensively.
Last season City had the best defense in the League, conceding 33 Goals, 10 less goals than us & keeping 18 clean sheets. They’ve now added Clichy(1st choice) & CB Savic(Back Up) to their defensive depth. It will be interesting to see how Clichy plays next season in a well drilled defense.
One thing very apparent watching Man City was how physically imposing they are. Everyone is massive. Upfront they started the game with Balotelli & Dzeko, both massive fucker’s.
City’s biggest weakness from yesterday still remains their lack of creativity in the middle. Silva looked good, but he is more Nasri than he is Cesc. They need a top creative midfielder to have a real shot at winning things.
Anyway back inside the box after the game, I heard Aguero was a “done” deal & Nasri was a priority. You could probably get 30M for Nasri from City, 3 good month’s in 3 season’s, I’d fucking take it & keep Cesc for another year.
In leaving I got to say goodbye and meet Patrick Vieira again. What a pleasure to meet the last “real” Captain we had, the last Arsenal Captain to win silverware. The guy was a monster on the field, but in person, such a Gentle Giant. Pretty Wild!!!!
This is truly hilarious…
http://tribalfootball.com/articles/ac-milan-beat-barcelona-cesc-terms-struck-arsenal-1774651
Fucking hell.
I came in here to say 400 wouldn’t be a problem, but it wasn’t.
500 then.
A strong coffee for me please whoever’s at the bar right now.
Absolutely brillinat set of drinks this π
Cheers all..and happy birthday Lars
Snir #389 DB’s assists were a treat his alround skill was amazing and paired with TH we were certainly spoilt as fans hope we can have a combination like that again.
Penutimate update from the SU.
Tabs/TS and all the usual suspects,
Great repartee over the past few days,Holic i am sure is quite chuffed at how you all manage to amuse yourselves while he is absent.
It’s a great credit to you all,with a few notable exceptions who shall remain nameless.
My 2 month ‘ Holiday ‘ at the SU comes to an end this w/end,just in time for the new Battles ahead of us this coming season.
So this will be one of my final updates,
As i mentioned in my last missive,The GST’s new offsider Sebastian, aka ‘ Mincing Mary ‘,went missing late last week.
He/She was seen arriving for the 6pm to 6am shift,but no one remembers seeing him at all during the rest of his shift.
The Police have been called in and have been interviewing all the
‘ Guests ‘,but no one can shed any light on his disapppearance.
I must say though that i have been surruptitiously observing the more deviant of the ‘ Guests ‘ among us and they do seem to be strolling about with very smug looks on their faces.
Detective Inspector Colin Clooless who is in charge of the investigation has confided to the lovely C, [ who he is completely smitten with ] that the only things of interest found in MM’s rooms were a pair of semen stained Speedos,which were on the kitchen table,a bloodstained Hot Pink Jockstrap with tiny cannons embroidered on the front along with the initials WSB,which was found in the bath,and a packet of peas which were under the pillow on the bed.
The Inspector admitted to C that those undesirables that ‘ swam both sides of the river ‘,gave him terrible migraines and he was in need of a good lie down,and asked if she might comfort him in his hour of need.
C had to explain that she was already spoken for,and indeed explained to him that to reinforce her commitment to her new love,she had had a tattoo of a Cannon done on her lower abdomen with a message saying,’ All shots to be fired here unless advised otherwise.’!!
She is a cheeky little devil.
Anyway i must go now as i am the last to be interviewed by the Inspector,
Should i mention my fears about the deviant ones among us,i am certain they know what has happened to MM,or should i keep my council,and what of the ‘ Items ‘ found in MM’s rooms,
The Speedos,the Jockstrap and the mysterious Packet of Peas,
Who is WSB ??
Will these items help to unravel the mystery,
I hope to have the answers in my final update early next week.
Take care Fellow Gooners
Cheers
Clive
Morning All,
Firstly, thanks to all for the comments yesterday evening about the posts (tabs, H2H, ‘nasri, AL, Trev/PHW, etc.). After a hard day’s slaving in the drinks I had to go out with Storey Management in the evening to our local gym and test out Trev’s handywork. Tough life, eh?
‘Holic, really great to see you enter the murky depths of our collective insanity and play with the inmates. That LWCs ladies team was pure genius and put us all to shame. Best wishes to your management too.
Bruce Hornsby, Terry Thomas (I say!) and Brian Rix excellent additions to the ‘nearly Arsenals’. Do we have a D team yet?
Some other top, top posts from a sh*tfaced H2H and Lonestar. All I can say is “Lonestar Toes….” π
Snir, top man for spotting Lars b’day on that Facebook thingy. Another spotters badge for you.
Lars, happy birthday for yesterday and skol! Trust you were upside down in a Stockholm ice bar or something equally entertaining π
Thank god for this site whilst the vultures are all still circling over The Ems. I’ve going back to my previous thoughts that the squad we have in Germany right now is pretty much it for the coming season. Maybe one more signing. I think the revolving door that ‘Holic likes to describe is now firmly biased towards out rather than in. Hope Lansbury gets another chance. JET, Eboue, Al, Bendy good luck and thanks for the fish. Cesc & Nasri, who the f*ck knows? Ah…. Lonestar toes π
Damn! Caught out by a change in moniker yet again *red faced*
Ollie morning, didn’t spot you there! Can I join you in a strong coffee. The ST awaits you this weekend. You must be dead excited π
Clive, penultimate post?! How are we going to cope once you are ‘released’ from the Secure Unit? Football is not a suitable replacement for what you write. Regards to the VC and congrats to WSB for what appears to be a mission well accomplished.
bernard @ #417, great post, great insight, many thanks. You lucky, lucky b’stard! Very good to hear that Paddy is a gent away from the pitch. If we would have captured him for our backroom staff that would have been the signing of the season for me….oh well.
Heh TS, I was reading through IPA’s message and thinking : what has this got to do with IPA? π
Drink of his choice for TS please barman!
And Indeed. Can’t wait to find the improvement on the ST, decent papers in the lounge etc.
Yeah, right. I doubt they’ve done a 10th of the work that was done on the HT during the off-season π
I’m confused about the tag line at the top of the blog today.
‘Win Tickets’ ? How? What for?
Ollie,
There’s a new post up mate. See you on the other side….
I’ll have a babycham
Or a Nantucket.