Almunia Misses Liege Trip
Sep 15th, 2009 by 'holic
It is very difficult to believe that sixteen years have passed since Arsenal thumped seven in without reply at Standard Liege. The night was memorable for us because Ian Wright was missing and we were allegedly vulnerable to having our three goal advantage from the home leg turned over. That was indeed a night to savour, and trust me, I did.
I suspect that the Champions League meeting that is now less than twenty-four hours away will provide a much sterner test, although pre-match omens appear to favour the Gunners. Steven Defour, the Standard talisman, will be missing having picked up a serious injury at the weekend. We, of course, will have Eduardo available after UEFA decided to dispense with the tin opener when presented with a real live can of worms.
The main talking point about the squad announced by Arsene Wenger is the absence of Manuel Almunia, reportedly with a chest infection. Those who recall what happened to his predecessor, Jens Lehmann, after a couple of poor performances against Fulham and Blackburn at the start of the 2007/8 season, may be wondering if this is a shot across the bows of the current number one after two difficult trips to Manchester.
The injuries to Denilson and van Persie may also lead to the sort of shape some have been calling for. Diaby will surely drop into the midfield trio alongside Fabregas and Song, and Bendtner can move into the middle of a front trio, likely to be flanked by Eboue on the right and Eduardo on the left. Eduardo and Bendtner can interchange and drag the Belgian defenders about, I would imagine.
Second-half appearances from the bench appear likely for Rosicky, Ramsey, and Wilshere, should the need arise to shake things up or change shape. I’m thinking that provided Vito Mannone doesn’t suffer from nerves on his Champions League debut the visitors just about have enough depth to get a result.
For Arsenal to get a result though I have to confess that Eduardo looks the most likely scorer of that selection. William Hill offer a best 7/4 on him to score at anytime. If that is a little skinny for you then how about 2-1 to the Arsenal, with Blue Square offering eights? I will have a little punt on the latter, but the ‘holic pound is going on Eduardo to score and Arsenal to win, available from Paddy Power at 11/5. Come on Eddy, I have a new car to pay for!
If you are among the 1800 lucky Gooners to get a ticket, be careful, and keep a low profile until you are in the ground. Then I have no doubt you will give the usual fantastic support to the lads. The rest of us will be relying on Sky Sports, or streams, and the calming influence of our favourite tipple. One thing is for sure. In the unlikely event that we win as comfortably as in 1993, I will be very calm indeed come the end of the evening!
12 Responses to “Almunia Misses Liege Trip”
Why keep a low profile?
Holic — I’m travelling to Liege tomorrow, why keep a low profile? Liege notorious for trouble? Surely can’t be worse than Celtic or Man City away, both of which I attended without incident.
As far as I’m concerned – and my sister lives in Namur, not far away from Liege – Wallonia is relatively safe, especially comparing to big cities of the Flemish north – Anderlecht in Brussels region or Antwerp. Nevertheless prudence should be advised always and everywhere 🙂
It’s the Belgium police they need to worry about.
What new car have you got ‘holic?
I’ll have a cheeky red please, btw.
Oh la laaa injuries strike again ! Seriously dude did we do something wrong to God ?
look i rather see those boys make mistakes than fucking Almunia fucking about week in week out.He’s shit.because of him and Wenger we wont win shit.
It is a bit of a joke, a team like arsenal do not have 1world class GK.
Are we for real?
Same as any big city club, there will be those about who will look to isolate vulnerable Gooners. I would personally be more wary there than either Celtic or Citeh, with whom we have had few gripes until very recently. Just be careful and you’ll be fine.
Newer old Rover, Snail. I should do advertising so I can afford something a bit better 😉
What’s happened to Fabianski? Is he injured too?
bring back jens lehmann
Jamie, from arse.con
LUKASZ FABIANSKI
September 7
Lukasz has had surgery to cure a knee problem and is expected to return in October. “Lukasz has had a cartilage surgery,” confirmed Wenger.
Personally, I feel very comfortable with Vito in goal. I think he has a great opportunity to do well and claim the number 1 shirt. From what I have seen of him so far, I think he is certainly competent. I wish him well.