Braga, Storey, Ta Muchly, And Top Podcasting!
Sep 14th, 2010 by 'holic
Lots to get through, so straight into the preview. Braga, otherwise know as the Arsenalistas, provide the first Champions League opponents for the not surprisingly injury hit Gunners on Wednesday night.
As I type Arsene Wenger is telling journalists that Abou Diaby will miss the next couple of matches. Thanks for that Paul Robinson. Also Thomas Vermaelen remains unavailable and misses out again, along with Robin van Persie, Theo Walcott, Aaron Ramsey, and Nicklas Bendtner.
Braga are no pushovers, having qualified for the 2010-11 Champions League group stage in impressive style, knocking-out Celtic and Sevilla, and scoring nine goals in the process. New boys Laurent Koscielny and Sebastien Squillaci will need to produce a second consecutive impressive display.
I would expect to see Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy return to the full-back berths, but Emmanuel Eboue could appear further forward on the right side, with either Tomas Rosicky or fit again Samir Nasri slotting in alongside Cesc Fabregas in midfield, although both Denilson and Jack Wilshere remain options available to the manager.
I did see the second-half of the second-leg of Braga’s win over Celtic, but ahead of the draw I have to confess I wasn’t concentrating on them. Therefore, whilst I am confident of an Arsenal win tomorrow, I cannot boldly tip a correct score for the ‘holic pound. It really could be anything. So it’s a first goalscorer punt for me, on little Andrey Arshavin.
If I am right about us starting with two creative and offensive midfielders then I expect to see lots of balls knocked in behind defenders for the Russian to exploit just like last Saturday. Hopefully this time his finishing will be a little more clinical. William Hill apparently offer 11/2 so I will be off round the corner as soon as I hit the publish button.
True Storey Competition Winner
Congratulations go to Max Milner who correctly answered that ‘Snouty’ scored seventeen goals in his Arsenal career. Those who relied on Wikepedia for their info missed the small-print that revealed nine goals represented his tally in the domestic league only.
Max, I have sent you a mail requesting your details so hopefully I can get the prize posted before I head off for a short break on Wednesday morning. Thanks also to nez and IndianGooner who guided me to the winning entry in this mornings drinks.
Shameless advertising time. If you would like to get over the disappointment of not winning a free copy of the book you will see a link to True Storey on Amazon in the sidebar of this blog. Whilst it would be a good read for Gooners of today, it would make a great birthday or Christmas present for that Gooner Dad, or Mum, who brought you up the right way!
Thanks To All Holics
A quick bit of sycophancy never goes amiss, and enables me to repay so many compliments that accompanied your competition entries. Thank you everybody for taking the time to type a lot more than just the competition answers. It is both flattering and humbling to read your comments.
Cheers also to Bill for pointing out Goonerholic’s new number four Wikio ranking in the UK for football blogs. I had missed it, even though it is in the sidebar. I see also the excellent arseblog has rightfully reclaimed the top spot.
Top Podcasts
If you haven’t heard the latest It’s Up For Grabs Now podcast then I suggest you do just that. My weekly routine is not set in stone, but must include this excellent show at the start of the week, and the equally un-missable arsecast at the end of the week. Both have a healthy back catalogue for you to catch up on if any of you are facing long journeys, so load up the mp3 player and give them a listen. You won’t be sorry.
189 Responses to “Braga, Storey, Ta Muchly, And Top Podcasting!”
Am i first?
Weird! There was no way i was gonna get that answer correct ‘Holic, so if it’s enjoyable enough i might just get it on amazon.
Work is a B***** to day.
Juice please
Love the Alan Davies podcast. Has me pissing myself on my commute.
Arshavin seems like a good shout ‘Holic for first goalscorer – I might have some of that as he won’t spurn the same number of chances again in one match like he did on Saturday.
Holic, I LOVE this blog – sorry I never expressed this into my competition enrty!
A Jack Daniels for me and one for yourself ๐
Oh and Congrats to YOU and Arseblog for work well done.
Congratulations ‘Holic
I love how almost all of the top blogs are Arsenal blogs. Quite nice. Hopefully this will be the season for our squad to have to have similar successes on the pitch.
Thanks zico, ette, and Joshua.
Now, a message for nellydee has been despatched via the wonder of electronic mailing. If you are reading, drop me a line ๐
‘Holic the plaudits are all richly deserved. Squillaci and Koscielny to shine against Braga, and I wouldn’t be surprised by an Arshavin brace. Bicycle accident puts me in need of brandy please.
Not a bad prang, I hope, bt8bbnn?
Wikio must have a shitty ranking system for not putting you at the top spot!
Looks like the Braga game will pit the master against the apprentice:
“Way back in 1921, Braga changed their original colours of two large green and white vertical stripes to red shirts and white shorts.
Why? Because their then-coach Jozef Szabo was so enamoured by Arsenal during a trip to Highbury that he decided to adopt the London club’s colours.
Such was the Gunners’ influence on Szabo, Braga even renamed their youth team Arsenal do Braga. And ever since their club changed its colours, the Braga fans have been known as Arsenalistas”
from http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/braga-arsenal
Like everyone else I’m fairly confident for that game and hopefully Braga will play football instead of trying to intimidate us physically, it could be one of a few games this season where everyone involved comes out uninjured. That would be a welcomed boost given the high-intensity month ahead.
@Joshua: 50% of the top 20 football blogs are Arsenal blogs, impressive isn’t it? Gunners are certainly more brainiac and chatty than the average football supporter…
There’s no place like the ‘Holic Bar you have to admit, this nice community keeps growing bigger and bigger, way to go boys and girls, keep it up Holic!
๐
Braga is a good team we cant take them for granted and I believe the lads won’t disappoint, I think I will go for a correct score line on this one there are few deals out there.
Check them out they certainly do look like Arsenal in those kits:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYlcOw9yKlI
Evening ‘holic.
Congrats on the success of the blog chap. Easily up amongst the best.
Looking at the squad, as bad as it could have been, I’m encouraged that Diaby is thought to be not quite as bad as first thought.
An early evening cool Red Stripe for me please barman.
Keep on believing ๐
Looks like the bar of love tonight !!! As others have said by far my Favourite blog in blogland and all of the old stories are a treat as are most of the comments that accompany them keep up the good work Sir! I’ll order the book tomorrow from your link as it sounds a cracker and nothing beats a scallywags tale or two ๐
Just been watching the highlights of Zaragoza 3 Malaga 5 and Mr Quincy Abeyie had a blinder for Malaga such a shame he took the wrong path as the boy has bundles of talent,Its not just the English lads that waste God given talents at times.
I can see goals galore tomorrow as Braga are no mugs on the break but will never have come across a side as good as us going at them don’t laugh but I can see a 4.1 or 5.2 tomoz, Maybe I’ll just do the overs on Betfair ๐
Anyone who fancies the Arsenal reserves instead of Champions League, they are on live at Man Citeh here now…
http://live.mcfc.co.uk/
Szczesny; Hoyte, Djourou, Miquel, Evina; Aneke, Eastmond, Randall; Deacon, Afobe, Emmanuel-Thomas.
Good opening, end-to-end stuff.
Bugger,
Citeh one up.
Eastmond hits the post.
Nice one Holic, will post updates on the game in Bremen ๐
A top 4 finish for ‘holic, briliant!! Does that put you in the CL ? ๐
A cheeky half cider please guv.
Cheers.
Half-time Citeh 1-0 Arsenal
Only Citeh know how…
Good evening Holic & Holic`s
Let me start by saying well done and most deserved Mr Holic for superb writing and the best place to discuss the ins and outs of the Arsenal.
For the game tomorrow I have high hopes for a Arsenal win, call it a feeling in my water or just confidence but I really believe we have what it takes to win the game.
Yes we have suffered the usual injuries already but the strength in depth of the youngsters has shown promise this season. with a few of the lads coming back from injury we will pull it off.
Coke with ice please barman
Spuds are one nil up Crouch 12th min
Spuds are on fire, 2 nil Crouch again!
Might have to sack you soon, Arthur ๐
Rocky spell for Young Guns. Citeh have hit post twice in second-half. Murphy on for Deacon.
1-1 with a wonder strike from Jay Emmanuel Thomas. He deserves it.
Are you still open?
A small Pinotage for me please – Bayerskloof if you have it.
Cheers
I know Holic I aint doing too well in Bremen am I? ๐
Bremen just scored 1:2 44min
…and moneybags Citeh’s stream dies.
Get more money from Sheikh n’Vac…
Half time here Holic Bremen 1:2 Lilly Whites, looks like FC Twente are having a good game with Inter at home 2 all in that one at half time.
I’ll have ice cold coke please barman
Evening bald.
Better work, Arthur ๐
Citeh plug back in. Young Guns playing well again.
The Up For Grabs podcast is brilliant, anyone who hasn’t heard it should check it out.
A pint of Boddingtons, please.
Incredible save denies Arsenal a late winner from a corner.
Goal for Bremen it’s 2:2 I’m getting good at this ๐
Hehe 2-2 need another from our german friends, and one for Reading, then Cardiff hull and Lyon to hold on and the beers will be on me again ๐
Evening ‘Holics
The tide at Werder B is turning…. which is a shame if you’re a bit of a twitcher ๐
It’s 2-2 and for once I don’t want the Germans to stop their bombardment
Er, better clarify that last post for fear of offending anyone – it was only a footballing metaphor ๐
Heh!
Looks like Manure are having a bit of horror show of their own tonight…
Come on Werder, you must want to beat those LWCs @ home.
Full Time 2-2 here in Bremen Holic…
Good work, agent Arthur. You keep the job ๐
Thanks Holic,
I would be a lot happier with 3:2 but hey best things come to those who wait :)! Time tomorrow for Almighty Arsenal to out score the opposition, I say 4:1 if we score earely then it’s definitely a possibility.
I hope so Arthur. The Braga game will be my first trip to The Ems this season so 4-1 would do very nicely and is certainly possible with the type of football we’re playing.
Holic is betting on The Meerkat to open the campaign tomorrow – sounds like a good call. I saw Bendy miss a dozen sitters at home to Burnley last year and follow it up with a cracking game against Porto. It bodes well for our diminutive Russian.
Either way, come on you Mighty Reds!
Looks like Antonio Valencia was injured Diaby/Rambo-style. This week-end it was Bobby Zamora’s turn. it’s a lot considering most clubs have only been playing 4-5 games so far this season. Let’s hope we won’t cave in to the trend…
Evening one and all. Had to give my ticket away for tomorrow due to an impending cycle tour and the fact that I could not afford a divorce. Hoping we really come alive and sparkle tomorrow night. I can see Denilson sitting in next to Song to add a bit of balance to the middle. Agree re the full backs.
A good performance and a good 3 points required to get the group stages off to a flyer.
Re the last post…..
@BTM. Have not seen the head butt again. I sit quite away from where the incident was, but my thoughts were these. The ref blew up for a free kick so he must have seen it as a foul. Therefore at least it has to be another yellow.
@Snir. I can only tell you what I have seen over the last 5 years and tell you what I saw on Saturday. It also did not go un noticed by those who sit around me. Interpret it as you see fit.
Yes, twud be great to see Arshavin get on the scoresheet tomorrow. Sure he missed a hatful on Saturday but I’m still taking my minority seat in congratulating him for getting into the scoring positions for those possible opportunities in the first place…..courtesy of some fine passing from Cesc and Rosicky.
Talking of which, I wonder what odds on Cesc scoring tomorrow?
Come on you Reds!!
3-1 Arsenal is my prediction.
A glass of that Glenlivet for me please barman…plus a couple of ice cubes. Thanks a bunch.
NB. @bt8bbnn ~ hope you’re not too badly injured as a result bicycle accident?
Evening all. Sky + all set for tomorrow evening. Can’t wait.
Just seen a photo of Valencia’s injury. Wish I hadn’t. Are these breaks increasing in frequency or are we just more aware of them? I hope the latter. Anyway, I wish him a full and speedy recovery.
A soothing brandy before bedtime please landlord…
Good points Matt. I haven’t yet seen what happened to Valencia. I did see the assault on Diaby several times on the internet (before it was removed) and it struck me that if soemthing like that had happened on the streets, Pig Robinson esquire would be facing a GBH charge. Mr. Henry at Wolves is another one who allegedly prides himself on being an accident waiting to happen. It’s too easy for us keyboard warriors to pass judgement on players, they have their own stories to tell, but it really feels like something has to be done if we’re to avoid the horror injuries happening on a weekly basis. Rant over – perhaps a calming cup of camomile tea is the answer dear barman? ๐
@ 48 True Storey
In a way….I’m glad to see the sort of prominence these leg breaking incidences are attracting. I don’t know how the stats compare to previous starts to the football calendar but anecdotally it seems a lot higher. OTOH, and as selfish as it might seem (and in wishing a speedy and full recovery to ANY player on the receiving end) it will imo only serve in the best interests of Arsenal as referees become increasingly vigilant. Strong robust tackling has always and rightly should be part of the game. But outright thuggery needs to be dealt with severely…..and hopefully hounded out of the game!!
well that valencia injury is nasty…….. u guys can see it herehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhShie2OR-0&feature=youtu.be
Agree with you Don. Recognition of a problem is usually the first step to fixing it. Here’s a question that might warrant the attention of the collective ‘Holic IQs: What can be done practically and by whom to eradicate the nasty stuff but still leave the EPL with fair and robust tackling? The reason I ask is that leaving to refs and the FA/UEFA doesn’t seem to be working….
@ things to cheer u up Holics….. DIaby the man himself and…http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_6376838,00.html
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11672_6376503,00.html………Holic does posting links like these count as spamming?
Good questions True Storey. Arsene Wenger has been a bit of a lone voice in calling for more protection of players over the years. Perhaps more managers will join forces with him in his efforts to preserve the fair play rules of the game!? And don’t get me started on the press with their xenophobic ‘Arsenal don’t like it up ’em’ nonsense. To my mind, they are very definitely part of the problem.
Thanks for that Usama, I think…. horrible but it didn’t look like the fault of the Rangers guy. More of an awkward fall maybe? Not sure…. but I do wish Valencia a very speedy recovery, poor fella.
A medicinal brandy now please barman.
Don, sorry to get you all wound up at this late hour :-). The media indeed has its part to play. I used to love the way hacks were portrayed in Spitting Image as pigs in pork pie hats – it helps me to laugh at them everytime I read some ridiculous made-up story or a xenophobic pop at our great club. Trotters on the pitch on Saturday, pigs in the press and pork-pie hats – look like we’ve landed in porcine heaven.
Can I have a packet of bacon flavour crisps to accompany my medicinal brandy?
@true storey
He stuck his foot in the ground very unlucky chap. im disappointed to see diaby calling the tackle strong instead of fuckin criminal…
@all
don’t take the press and media to seriously they r all degenerated lunatics…… doing dirty work and spinning everything to support their theories.
prang painful but xray tomorrow will tell more. maybe it’s a sympathetic prang in line with all our injuries.
That’s hilarious, thanks usama ๐
Well it would be hilarious if it wasn’t for the fact that his colleague (yes you, Mr.Robinson) went unpunished. Maybe he’ll decide to change his on-pitch behaviour now? Oh look, I can see a pig flying past my window as I type this.
A very good night to you all. Tomorrow we start our CL campaign and the chance to show Braga what Wengerball is all about. Fingers crossed.
@ usama
Whoops! My sequencing was way off there. The “hilarious” comment was aimed at the link to the failed appeal by Bolton on behalf of Cahill. Nothing more.
Bed really does beckon now…
Alle the best to Valencia jsut saw what happened and it doesn’t look good.
Hang on in there son!
@ true storey
i got it the first time mate….. gud night im of to its 4am here!
True Storey, you are a welcome addition to the holics. The standard goes up just a little more ๐
Arsene explained today why he remained vague on Diaby’s return:
“I’m vague [about the length of Diabyโs absence] because it’s the ankle on which he had surgery. I was very anxious because he had a scan yesterday [Monday] and with Diaby there are always bad surprises on the scan. But the scan looks quite promising. We don’t know how long he will be out as we don’t know how long the inflammation will take to go down.โ
Always bad surprises on the scan with Diaby? Really?
Anyway in case you missed it there’s a cool video of the pre-Braga training session. Denilson has clearly morphed this summer, he’s super-wide now. Hope will see him tomorrow.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/free-video-arsenal-train-ahead-of-braga-game
Top Four ‘Holic – that’s all we ask for at The Arsenal! Just kidding, before I get slaughtered.
Well done, anyway – richly deserved.
bt8bbnn – I’m sure the x-ray will show “only a small injury”. With our record, you’ll be fine in about 18 months.
True Storey – the best idea I can come up with to eradicate these horror tackles, is to say that the offending player should be allowed to play again only when the injured player is also, once again, fit.
If intent or malice is judged to have been involved, then the offender should be suspended, without pay, until the injured player is fit.
The only problem remaining then, is to formulate a panel that is not made up of halfwits who simply say, “oh i don’t fink ‘e meant it, ‘e’s not that kind of player, e’s a real smashin’ bloke et. etc.etc”.
The problem with the current Diaby incident is not only physical though. How many times is a young player going to be hit, like he has been, before it affects the whole way they play. We’ve seen it already with Eduardo, where a calm, clinical finisher became panicky and snatched at chances, clearly due to the fear that he would be clattered again.
Ultimately, no rule will be effective though, unless referees have the determination to consistently enforce it.
Better still, the potential punishment should be so severe – i.e. a life ban – that no player WANTS to commit such a foul.
I think that is the only true way to eradicate such incidents.
Right, I’m off to bed – everyone else has gone !
@Trev: I have been really keen on banning a player who injured another for the duration of the injury ever since I witnessed the first broken leg in a football game. I’m more radical than you, I don’t think there should be any panel. If there has been contact and it results in a fracture, you’re banned. If it’s bad luck it’s still not as bad luck as the player whose leg was broken.
That said it will never happen even in a milder form. I’ve lost all my illusions when Roy “the thug” Keane ended Hรฅland’s career and openly admitted it without any consequences. It will never happen though.
Hello barman, a JD for me please.
Im still not convinced we will see Diaby after two games (as promised by Wenger) ,.
Hope there are no more serious injuries in our camp this season. We’ve already our share of rotten luck all these years.
Sajit, it might be too premature but Diaby himself thinks he’s gonna be out for a couple of games only, probably it doesn’t hurt as much as thought at first.
“I will miss our first game in the Champions League but to be honest I am lucky to only miss two or three games, I really thought I would be out for a long time,” Diaby said.
“Bolton is a very physical team and to be honest the tackle was a strong one, but it is Premier League football, people are committed, so it is fine for me.
“I hope the team start the Champions League with a victory, the first game in any competition is always very important.”
Decidedly average performance from Man IOU against the Teddy Bears tonight. The fat sheep shagger was joined by his bedmate Auld Slapper when the Welsh dribbler came on and slavered his way through the last thirty minutes or so on his bus pass, the only half-decent pass he was associated with in the entire game.
Rangers closed them out all too easily. Not one of the 700Mill-in-debt brigade would have made it into the team that I watched thump Bolt-on 4-1 on Saturday. The old purple nose on the Famous Red Grouse burst a few more blood vessels as his old lags slumped to their third draw of the season.
Holic. Et tu, Brute? (smile). DENILSON, Fabregas and Song will provide the platform for tomorrow nights win. Nasri, Chamakh, Vela to start up front. Agree your back four, although I think Gibbs has already surpassed Clichy as our best attacking left back and might just get the nod.
Got to be The MacCallan for me tonight. Can we stretch to the 18 year old do you think? (OK, make it a “Jack” MacCallan then).
@Trev, True Storey, Don et al.
For all the talk of how karl Henry, Shawcross, Robinson etc “didn’t mean to hurt him” and “aren’t that type of player’, that it’s just about commitment etc, then how come we never see Ferdinand, Vidic, Adams, Campbell etc snapping peoples legs?
Because they have enough inherent skill to be committed but not need to resort to clogging people.
So the players themselves need to either improve or give up compensating for their inadequacies. I have no doubt that they didn’t mean to break their legs, but they certainly went out with the intent of stopping a better player by any means necessary.
FA, UEFA etc slump in their spineless way and accept it as “part of the game”.
I watch kids football over here and the technical standard of all play, including tackling, is so much higher than over in England. Which may explain a few national sides’ fortunes…
Coffee please. Black and strong.
And that is precisely the point Catalan Gunner (@72). You are so right sir!
Your list of great players acknowledged…as well I’m thinking Steve Bould, David O’Leary, Martin Keown, Lee Dixon, Nigel Winterburn were all lauded as ‘hard’ but excellent, highly professional and competent defenders of their day…..who as the years pass by will be remembered as just that. NOT as slow, mistiming, unskilled cloggers lacking in the foot and brain department who had to make up for their personal deficiencies by taking a physical swipe at the first sign of any opposition player! Wenger, as per usual, is spot on ~ the players (and not only Arsenal players) need protecting!!!
As much pressure as possible needs to be applied to the FA (I think UEFA are a little bit better) in making changes and this needs to be reflected in the refs decision making. The more this kind of play is commonly regarded as acceptable, the English player will be left further and further behind and the international game will continue to suffer.
An early morning bitter lemon and lime for me please barman ๐
Forgive my rudeness (above).
Good morning ‘holic and to all fellow Gooners. Really looking forward to tonights game.
๐
BtM,
I have left you a missive at the email address you leave on your drinks. Will ye no come back again? ๐
Morning all,
Only my road to the motorway could be closed on the day I am going away ๐
Morning ‘Holics one and all.
@ Trev #66, Matt #68
Thank you for your thoughts, those are all really good points. I’m with you on this: For every match (ALL competitions, nasty eh?) that a player misses through some form of “proven” poor/dangerous tackle, the offender/clogger/thug misses exactly the same amount of matches with him. That would probably make video technology a must at all grounds so that the incidents can all be analysed by a specially appointed team of FA f*ckwits, sorry experts but if that was put in place and the refs were inlcuded and all fully bought into the process then it just might work. ‘Holics solve the issue of on-pitch violence – aren’t we a bunch of clever dicks? ๐
@ Catalan Gunner #72
Again, really good points. Rightly or wrongly I’m convinced these highly trained profesionals know exactly what they’re doing – I’d wager that in 99% of cases they choose to go in with either their foot on the ground or at mid-shin level (shudder). The truly great defenders are agressive, committed AND skilfull. They don’t snap legs and I believe they would be just as mentally scarred by such an incident as their victims if they did (a tip of the hat to Trev again). Spot the difference in the behaviour of young Shawcross. Snaps Ramsey’s legs with a ridiculous tackle in the middle of the park, gets a pitiful 3 match ban for it, and only a week ago goes whining to the press about how he thinks Arsene has something against him – does that not beggar belief? Is he really that dense? Jesus, I’ve gone all Alan Davies…. better get back to work ๐
A grande latte if you wouldn’t mind please barman?
Did anyone else notice how Condescending the commentators were on the United Rangers game last night
Jesus youd have thought Glasgow Rangers were a team thrown together from the Dog and Duck and that their supporters had never visited a ground with seats and toilets – dont get me wrong im not a massive fan of scottish football but Rangers and Celtic are big clubs in stature and have good European records and sometimes commentators would do well to remember European football dosent revolve around their magical Man United,
The standard of commentary and writing on the beautiful game seems to dillute each passing year
Sorry to hear about your travel problems ‘Holic. Hopefully the road will be open again soon. Going somewhere nice? I’m sure we’ll all miss you ๐
Chippy @ 78 – as condescending as Ferguson – when you look at the team that he put out, with 10 changes, he expected to romp that game. Another draw so ha, ha red nose.
An early morning Americano to wake me up please.
Sorry meant Chippy @ 77
Zicoinexile,
Agree but as a Manager thats his choice a poor one as it turned out ๐
But commentators are meant to be impartial and hearing them talking of the Merits of a visit to Old Trafford which in my view is a shithole compared to Ibrox or Celtic Park and many other grounds (it may be Big but its in no way pleasant) was vomit inducing.
For the first time in many years i looked at Uniteds back ups last night and realised they are in trouble if they get 2-3 Key injuries, You can never write them off as they have that winning mentality but they are as weak as they have been for many many years and seem to be a side in decline,
Just a few days in Somerset, TS. Any minute now, in fact.
Have a good one people. Think I will have a little flutter on 3-1 again tonight…
Have a great break ‘Holic. Very excited about my trip to The Ems tonight. Allegedly the crowd might be thinner than usual. My fat body might help bulk it up a bit. Come on you Mighty Gunners – I’m plumping for 4-1! ๐
TS
I’m with you on 4:1 and shall put some money on that one too!
@ chippy 81.
Agree with you about the strength in depth of the Manchester United drug. They really do seem to be in decline. I’ve always admired them (at the same time is hating them with an indescribable passion) for their winning mentality but this year it just feels different. I just can’t see them having the squad to cope over what is a very gruelling term…..made worse still now with this Valencia injury.
A late morning cappucino for me please barman.
Chippy, I agree entirely – the main thing I took out of last night’s United game is how poor their “fringe” team was.
I see a lot of the SPL (unfortunately) and the current Scottish Champions are far from a vintage crop. United’s inability to get through them said a lot about their lack of creativity.
As for a visit to Old Trafford compared with a visit to either of the Old Firm’s grpunds? A plague on all their houses, I say ๐
don,
Agree, i despise them and the manager – but youve got to respect what he and they have achieved,
But yes im with you something feels a bit different this year and they seem to rely heavily on Giggs And Scholes who for all their sheer class surely will not stand up to a full season at their respective ages, As we say its always dangerous to write them off but i would be majorly surprised if they won either the League or Big Ears,
Valencia is a big blow as you say due to the amount of goals they scored last season that he was involved in – he is in no way as Flash or as big a goal threat as Ronaldo was but he had become a vital ingrediant to the attack and that attack was looking a touch thin as it was,
//the strength in depth of the Manchester United drug//
‘Drug’? Huh? Where on earth did that come from?
My sincere apologies to all. I meant ‘squad’.
And I promise, I am in no way under the influence, although applaud you for interpreting correctly the general tone of that message.
Come on you Gooners ๐
@ Arthur #84 – I wonder what the odds will be in the stadium tonight? A very modest flutter might be in order.
@Chippy #81 and all – Great thoughts. We seem to finally have that depth that we’ve lacked in recent seasons. It could be argued that Manure and Chelski do not – wonderful! I love the way Hansen and Co. dis’ us on TV when it comes to our chances for EPL.CL glory. We’re dark horses and let’s keep it that way. ‘Can’t wait for Hansen to turn round one day soon on MOTD (when he realises that we are in fact serious challengers) and start eulogising about Arsenal, our squad and the way we play the game. When that day comes, I’ll still have the same thoughts about him and his ilk. In the meantime may I propose that we sometimes substitute the four letter C word with Hansen? e.g. “Oi Shawcross, get off the pitch man, you’re an utter Hansen!” ๐
Hansen? He still thinks Liverpool are going to win the league doesn’t he True Storey?
๐
Probably Don, he’s such a, er, Hansen! ๐
He also thinks Shawcross, Henry and Robinson are not those kinds of players… Heh!
Alan Hansen is deranged – best avoid him, the same way you would the guy on the bus with the soiled clothing who is mumbling away to himself.
He’s never forgiven us for Anfield ’89 – the tosser.
Any other candidates for “Hansen of the week” dear ‘Holics? May I start the proceedings with Robbie Savage ? ๐
@ zicoinexile #93
Hilarious – made me LOL, thanks!
Most of the MOTD are a bunch of ignorant Hansens! ๐
Holic have a safe trip and great time down in Somerset!
I just can;t justify that they didn’t even show the Diaby incident, I watch some Polish league games on my TV package, they do have MOTD so to speak and every tackle of this magnitude is analysed.
Just goes to show how ignorant the so called experts have become in this country, truly awful conduct! They should be helping the game but no, they seem to desire to sweep more shit underneath the carpet!
@ ATG #96
Great! So we now have The Crisp Salesman, Lawrenson and Shearer as candidates too. ๐
Quick Qn: Can we give Lee Dixon a pass? I can’t help but have a huge soft spot and a debt of gratitude for all he did for The Arsenal.
TS
No probs we shall give Lee Dixon a pass, I also have a soft spot for him, but he needs to stick up more for his former club!
Agreed Arthur – he is a little bit of a Hansen when it comes to what he says about our club.
Maybe, just maybe he’s knocking us down now to build us up high later? I’m guessing he’d be pleased to see us return to our rightful place as champions.
… and as we’ve given Dixon a pass, how about Sylvestre as a more than capable substitute (for once)?
…. which naturally leads us to Big Bad Billy Gallas ๐
I noticed he was unable to participate in the match with Werder B, last night. Hotly tipped by The Twitchy One himself to be the new LWC captain.
I’d call that a match made in heaven, thoughts anyone?
True Storey, agent Gallas has been programmed on destroy destroy destroy
@ BT8BBNT – Hah! Very funny, thanks mate!
I’m so hoping that he plays next week against us in the “Milk Cup”. I think he might just notice a few changes in our team (for the better) since he was let go by Le Boss. it will be very interesting to see how his former colleagues treat him on the pitch.
Enjoy your trip ‘holic sir. Bring back some scrumpy for the bar.
Looking forward to tonights game, Come on you reds!!!
Shot of vodka please.
Following last nights comments on bad tackles – Sky S News have just shown (shock, horror) the Robinson assault on Diaby, AND all three of our sadly famous leg breaks.
They then showed stats proving that over last season, Arsenal were the second most fouled team in the league.
They showed AW giving his views on commitment, fairness and intent to play the ball, or otherwise.
All good, so far.
They then invited an expert opinion on the situation from –
no, seriously, wait for it – JOEY F*CKING BARTON !!!!!! Oh, nearly forgot – he was on a RIFLE SHOOTING RANGE at the time.
To be fair, he was fairly balanced, but what has he ever done to earn the right to express his views on reckless/dangerous play.
You couldn’t make it up.
So, off to the Grove tonight –
Come on all you still uninjured RREEEDDDSSSS !!!
Good afternoon Trev.
Excellent post. May I now add Joey F. Barton to the candidate list for “Hansen of the week”? (cf 94, 98, 101 & 102) ๐
Let’s shout ourselves hoarse tonight – there’s normally a good edge to the atmosphere for the evening matches.
Trev, they probably picked him because he was targeted against Wolves, poor little lamb.
To answer last nights question, I will repeat something that Arseblogger has mentioned on numerous occasions. The only way that the F.A. might take an interest in this issue and attempt to do something about it is if it happens to one of their darlings, e.g Rooney or Gerrard.
If one of the England/meedja favourites where on the end of a career threatening tackle the red top backlash would be huge and the FA may then be forced to do something about it. Untill then it will be swept under the ever swelling carpet.
@ H2H – sad but true, well said.
A pint of strong continental lager please barman and come on you
Rip-Roaring Reds!!!!!!
Greetings from cider country. Guess who left his whistle at home. Quick trip into Weston has provided new one, couple of shirts and a tie. Panic over ๐
Sounds expensive sir! Talking of whistles, the opening match of our CL campaign is almost upon us. I’m off to meet a mate and catch a train to St. Panc! Enjoy the match everybodt, I know I will :-0
Have a great night TS
@ Trev 106
Ahh….now there’s the voice of balanced, objective and a reasoned argument, Joey Barton!? Let it not be mentioned ~ he is in no way a complete fruitcake (in all honesty ~ he’s probably sharper than his actions would necessarily imply).
๐
Anyways……anyone remember back to his first game (at Ashburton Grove about 2 years back) after being released from chokey……after he came on as sub, acting like the big ‘I am’ as per usual……only to be shot down by Nasri who tripped him? That was really funny!!!
Up the Goons tonight. Really looking forward to a victory!!!!
TS – What an acquisition to the Holic Bar, right on mate!
To be honest, I’ve stopped hoping anything from the British media if Lee Dixon goes out on Arsenal the way he does, and Stewart Robson who gets paid (!!!) by the club on ATVO says things which are completely the opposite on Sky than what he says on ATVO and it seems as if he justs wants to be seen as objective but man, don’t be over objective by knocking the Gunners when we all know that’s not what you think…
I cannot believe I’m typing this but although a nutter and a disgrace to himself and others on occasions I’ve actually heard and read certain interviews with Mr Barton that have been well written/spoken, When the mood takes him he can be quite interesting and his thoughts are not what you’d expect from a person of his character,
Holic, Could be a double celebration in that part of the world if Somerset clinch their first title tomorrow plenty of sore heads ๐
Did Chamakh first scorer and Arsenal 5.1 + 5.2 Of to Spain Friday morning for a 2 day stag so the extra pennies that would pay would cone in handy !!!!
Blimey have my manners become so bad that I forgot to welcome TS to the bar,
If you will Barman a pint of the Black stuff for me and whatever TS+Snir fancy !
Andy Townsend – the challenge for the CL in London will come from Chelsea – what a surprise. And what a wanker (or Hansen if you prefer).
Come on you reds!
That 10 minutes span was one of the best attacking 10 minutes span of the recent seasons by any team in Europe.
Chelsea, United, Man U – My ass.
Best attacking threat in Europe apart from Barcelona. What a joy to watch.
Looks pretty good to me so far my fellow Gooners. Methinx we could be looking at a few more goals.
How good is young neutron? He’s playing like an experienced veteran.
My god what a game!! and how many times do u hear the commentator saying ‘he’s holding his left buttock at the moment!’….. Lovely lovely play.
A shout out to uefa u can have 8refs but u still wont see a pen dancing naked in front of u.
@119 – Man u – Man City ๐
It’s going to end like it always does. Vela coming on with a smile, missing some half-chance after some great dribbling. Then he is going to smile some more. In the end he’ll score a beautiful but totally unimportant umpfteen-nil goal and smile bigger than biggest.
Fab just made it 4:0 I should have put a bet on at least 6:0 ๐
@Toby: Vela didn’t miss his first half-chance ๐ Still smiling big though!
Read 123
Fair enough Matt ๐
Sounds like we’re tearing them up!
He didn’t miss his second either ๐
Vela is one helluva finisher. That was class!!
Come on Fab…be nice if could finish with a hattrick ๐
Don, don’t forget Vela is on a hattrick as well!
Sorry, Holic, for turning this into a chat room!
what a lovely night!! amazing brilliant…….proud to be a gooner!
I’ll lift a glass to this Champioins League goal difference table:
Arsenal +6
Chavski +3
Spuds 0
Mancs 0
Probably badly timed message on my behalf Toby. I meant before Vela got his second. Yes, apologies to you ‘holic for slightly abusing your blog mate. I blame Arsenal for the superlatives.
Stand out performers for me….Cesc, Wilshere, Gael, Vela, Kos. I suppose I could go on.
Great day at the office.
A pint of San Miguel for me please barman. I’m feeling good…..my card is behind the bar. Enjoy….
๐
@don
COME ON!!! Chamakh was brilliant too….
Wow, exquisite performance by Arsenal Globe Trotters from beginning to end. Braga may not have been the most dangerous opponents we faced but our 14 players played like gods throughout.
Cesc has something like 6 assists and 2 goals in 2 games. He’s definitively back!
Great to see Cesc back to his best (or is there still more to come?)
Great to see Vela getting goals for us these days
Great to see Chamack continue his goalscoring run
Great to see Arsh get the goal his play deserves
Great to see ManU and Spurs struggle
Yep, a pretty good start to the Champions League.
Hey ‘Holic,
Now THIS is the kind of pub-debate I can enjoy. Arguing over which Gunner was masterclass… unfortunately for me, I am still at work so will have to watch the tape-delay.
Is there any doubt, any longer, that we play the most beautiful football? All due respect to ‘The Team That Shall Not Be Named’, when we are healthy and in rhythm, we are irresistable.
Up the Arse!
@ usama
Indeed mate. Chamakh was great. He’s added a new dimension up front. He is dangerous both on or off the ball. Very intelligent player.
Brilliant night of football.
@don
yup really loved it…. only bad point was watching it on a stream every time it stopped my heart did too…..
What can you say about that performance…but really also the season so far? We all know about the flair but what about the hunger…the hunger is so bloody evident. It’s a cliche but I see so much desire in the squad right now…to win the ball back, to defend with courage, to track back, to win headers and simply want to own the pace of the game.
So many good signs – let’s keep it going.
Heh Fella, mine’s a Rum and Coke. And none of that shit you sell the tourists!
What a great preformance tonight, Cesc was awsome, Jack was brilliant, Chamakh makes all the difference, Koscienly was top notch. Arshavin missed few passes but made a very decent effort, Sagna was solid as always, so was Squilliaci, Clichy and Song were had a very good game too, Vela what a cheeky finish was that Eboue
I have noticed Song likes to go forward himself ๐ , we simply turned on the pressure from the start and we looked so comforatble with ball, outstanding stuff to watch, true masterclass!
Braga was taught a lesson nothing else, baby this is the real thing ๐
I mentioned earlier that Braga was a good side perhaps they are but we are and it showed tonight simpy IRRESISTABLE ๐
Opps…
…Vela what a cheeky finish was that Eboue solid and Alminua with another clean sheet….
Easy.
A lot of good performances but what about Cesc – Steve T – are you now re-assured?
Lets hope we can keep it going – winning breeds confidence and its own mental strength.
Win the next match.
A virtual drink to all my arsemates, barman ๐
I did say the overs on betfair may be the way forward ๐ Fun to watch and in that mood no side are better going forward.
I’ll drink to that performance but harder tests await and that starts on sat but if the boys put in the hard yards I can see another 3 points on the way back to the sunny surrounds of N5.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again although not the best player on the park tonight we’ve got an absolute gem in young Jack, and if he carries on his rate of progression we may just have the new Chippy!!
Arthur,
Good point that, For me the most pleasing aspect was the clean sheet as make no mistake Braga are dangerous on the break, Ill make a prediction now that they score away in their other group games !!
That was a great game.and we kept a clean sheet.vela is now our super-sub.
Have to get up early tomorrow so I haven’t got the time to read everything that has been said tonight, but I’d just like to say that we really put on a masterclass tonight. And I have to say that Almunia had a really good game, he was rarely called upon but when he was he was focused and did not make any mistakes at all.
I’ve already had a few pints of Boddingtons tonight so just a glass of orange juice, please.
Yes, a clean sheet……..which impels me to say a word for Almunia……a calming present between the sticks tonight. Never had much to do, but when called upon, he performed very capably.
Seems to have got his mojo back. Let’s hope it continues ๐
A Talisker 10year old for me please guvnor with a couple of ice cubes thrown in. And whatever your having of course.
What a game… What a performance.. One of the best…
Sorry Lars….I was typing when you placed your 149 ~ didn’t see it till after I posted mine. Clearly we are in agreement.
It’s a goodnight from me but just before I retire….I have to mention….a 17 pass move leading to Vela’s final goal (after the 24 pass move leading to his goal last weekend against Bolton).
That.is.some.serious.going!!!
Privileged to be a Gooner ๐
don,
Vela’s first goal was the 17-pass one..
Here’s the goal courtesy arsenalist: http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xeu1dt_braga5017passes
Hey Zico –
‘Holic might not censure you, but let’s not start the “win the next, match” stuff… too many bad memories from last year ๐
Right you are IndianGooner. Forgive please…correction accepted my friend. Either way….we are playing some divine football right now. Long may it continue.
Keep on believing ๐
don,
No need to apologize.. Todays performance was mesmerizing and I know most of us are on heaven after such a performance.. I’m watching the game again even though its past 1am here in South Africa and I need to go to work in the morning..
Arsenal 6 – 0 Braga.
AKB’s are derided by some fans for their supposed slavish support for Arsene Wenger, the implication being that those critics, in fact, know better than Arsene what Arsenal need in order to become successful again.
I have just got back from the Grove where I spent an entire match jumping up and down out of my seat, along with the rest of the crowd, who were laughing – not just smiling – and punching the air in real joy at the football being played in front of them.
If Arsene had brought on David Copperfield, Merlin and Paul Daniels as subs tonight, he could hardly have created more magic than we had already seen from a team lacking van Persie, Vermaelen and Walcott, among others.
Braga finished above Porto last season in the Portugese league, but were outclassed from minute one tonight. Carlos Vela scored his first goal of the night at the end of a 17 pass move, following up his strike on Saturday, which was the culmination of a 24 pass move.
Some say that Wenger is a puppet of the board, and is happy to fulfill the only requirement of his mission, which is to provide the board with a net profit at the end of each season’s transfer dealings.
This is assumed on the basis that he does not spend vast sums of money on superstars.
Well if he is a puppet, he is an extremely gifted one, who has produced another incredible team with a tiny amount of money compared to the spends of the Chavs and Man Citeh, and we should feel lucky to have him.
It was a joy and a privilege to be at tonight’s game. We have now scored 16 goals in our first 3 home games. The new central defence looks calm, strong, organised and capable of integrating into our pattern of play. Chamakh, cost ยฃ0, is a revelation who already adds hugely to our capability. Almunia is doing fine, for now.
AW clearly tried to strengthen the goalkeeping position but it didn’t happen for whatever reason.
Do I count myself among those AKB’s ?
You bet.
Chippy @ 146
Jack reminds me very much of Brady – the way he moves and passes the ball out of his stride with such ease. He is always looking for the best option and when he adds that ability to find the extra yard of space, he is going to be something extra-special.
The only cautionary note would be that he keeps his personal life in check – but he’s 18. As long as it’s only the odd mistake, you can’t ask much more than that.
Like Trev, ATG and no doubt a few others, I’m just back from The Grove so felt compelled to write something as I believe I’ve witnessed a truly outstanding exhibition of team football – possibly one of the best I’ve ever been priviledged enough to see.
Maybe Braga didn’t represent the sternest of tests but surley they’re no mugs and the way that we opened them up at will was, in a word, breathtaking.
It must say something when by far our worst player on the night was little Andrey and he made a great assist, scored an excellent goal and completed one or two wonderful flicks and passes.
For me, it’s so hard to pick a MoTM. Koscielny, Song, Chamakh, Wilshere and Cesc were all fabulous so you decide. More than that though, we played as a team that loved playing football together. It was a joy to watch and I’ll wager the players felt it was a joy to be on the pitch.
On tonight’s performance, I don’t think you’ll see football played better anywhere in Europe and I include the Camp Nou in that statement. I realise that I’m horribly biased but the way we played even shaded our demolition of Porto last year and yes, I did go to that game as well.
For the flutterers amongst you, me and a mate put a whole tenner (yes really!) on 4-0 and 4-1 at 9-1 and 14-1 respectively. At 4-0 up early in the second half we could have kissed Andrey’s lazy butt when he kindly smacked the ball against the post instead of scoring. It really was that kind of a night!!!
Signing off for some sweet dreams now about an Arsenal side that must be serious challengers for both the CL and the EPL. It’s very early days I know and Sunderland will bring us right back down to earth on Saturday but I’m dribbling already at the prospect of our first real litmus test away at The Bridge on October 3rd.
Good night one and all and a sedative for me please barman ๐
PS: Just read Trev’s post match thoughts. I think he says it better than me, so read his first!
You get some rest TS, i’ll sweep up then.
Just got in from the game and caught the highlights. How funny to hear spuds coach Les Ferdinand going overboard about a glittering Arsenal performance. Even funnier to hear him say that we will be one of the favourites and that the spuds need to try and emulate us. Caps off a fine evening.
Not going to go too overboard. You win a game 6 nil and you do not really have to. The result speaks for itself. Cesc was outstanding. Chamack just gives us so many more options up front that I can see him being a fans favourite for many a season. No real weak points for me.
I do want to mention Wilshere. He has always had massive potential to be a special player. I saw him pull Madrid apart 2 years ago in the Emitates Cup. What has impressed me most is the way he has developed. At 18 he actually looks to me to be a better player than Cesc was at that age. Now I know that is a bold statement but I really believe that. He could turn into something very special indeed. I can not wait for Ramsey to get back to full fitness again. The thought of the 2 of them playing together in the future is quite breath taking.
Steve T – I know you’ve been worried about the lack of cover for Alex Song. Having now seen Kos and Squelchy together and how comfortable they look, that could spare TV5 to play defensive midfielder if needed.
What about Kos, Squelchy, Song AND TV5 to all play against Chelsea ?
I must get to bed, but I can’t calm down after tonight !
Trev. At the last members day I was lucky enough to get invited to the press con after the session. TV5 was one of the players there. The same question was put to him as you have posed. He looked absolutely horrified, laughed and then dismissed the idea out of hand.
My only problem has been this. As a club I think we need to be the best we can be. Maximise what we have. I do not want any negatives on a night like this but in my humble opinion our dealings in the window have not made the best uses of the resources available. I hope it does not cost us. You only have to look at Chamack so far this season to sit and wonder what might have been last year had he signed then??? Yes he may have cost money but who knows, it just may have been worth it.
We will never know now.
Keep the faith.
Things are really looking up and I have a smile on my face! had to watch the match on delay on Fox soccer channel as my wife booked our holiday and I have to miss 5 matches, absolutely gutted as we could have gone on the interlull.
So jumping up and down on my own in the middle of nowhere in Michigan, gutted I wasn’t there tonight but really happy with the performance, could have been 9 if Chamakh had stayed on, everyone inpressed me tonight with the exception of Song. Great at breaking up play but his ditribution was shocking, picking holes really.
Very happy with the performance, 6 Coor’s lights please barman, one for each goal (when in Rome and all).
Hey everybody, hope I’m not too late for the pub tonight.
Seriously? One of the best first halves in recent seasons by any team in Europe.
It could and should have been 7 at the break.
To be honest, I don’t have one bad thing to say about the team, and I really do believe that the only thing we need this year is luck.
Luck with injuries.
A full squad Arsenal is second only to a full squad Barcelona.
I just didn’t want the match to end and got quite depressed that the ref blew for the final whistle!
This team really looks together, as if playing for each other, AA going to Almunia and talking, Almunia reassuring Koscielny before a corner, Squillaci organizes the defence with his words, Cesc telling players where to pass.
This team is just great, I feel lucky to be able to support a team that I’m having fun watching.
I too am one of the AKB’s.
SteveT: it’s too early to say for sure, we’ll know more at the end of the season but I agree that Jack could be better than Cesc at the same age. He’s definitively stronger already.
@Snir: Second only to Barca!!! What’s up with you? Go wash your mouth with some soap right now ๐
AKB indeed. Just saw Chamakh’s breathtaking goal for the first time. We have a striker who’s not afraid to take his chances, and Wilshere’s backheel was amazing. The goal celebrations are indicative of a team who care about and like and respect each other and the 3 new players are going a long way to improving our team spirit. There’s great competition for every place in the team but the players are cooperating toward a common goal. Very much an improved atmosphere from recent seasons.
Hey Snir @ 167…
Let’s not go and sully a right perfect night by naming “That Team That Shall Not Be Named.”
Thanks… I’ll go and take out the trash. Come with me, Mr. John Terry.
Lol Matt, you know there’s no team I hate more than “the team that shall not be named” but unfortunately they do have the best player in the world in Messi and the best passer (for now) Xavi.
About Jack, well, you know what? As much as Jack looks the part as of now, I really do rate Aaron higher and am sure He’ll be a legend, he’s just a phenomenal player already at the age of 19.
Damn, Im starting to echo Steve’s thoughts.. What if we had spent that extra 6 million and got Chamakh last season?
Chances missed i guess.
If Wilshere can 1. avoid thugs like Shawcross
2. keep his head right
he is going to be a legend at Arsenal.
Aww fuck it! The bar’s dry – only negative to speak of.
Can’t add anything that hasn’t been said.
Except, had a warm feeling last night (now, now chaps, Mrs ’74 was in bed long ago). Can you imagine even drool over what we could do in the future with a holy trinity of Fab-Jack-Aaron!!!! Fuck me you would have to have a box of tissues every game! Of course that’s if Fab is around.
Don’t know why, but I have a funny feeling about Saturday… Hope it’s just me being too cautious…
We have to get those 3 points. We’ll then have W.B.A at home and Chelsea will play away to Man City, that’d be the day we’d either be level on points with Chelsea or pass them in case they lose, meaning we’re going to the match against them in the best position possible against them.
I just love this team.
The thing about posting pre match and then looking at it after is hilarious.
What was i thinking!! I hear myself say…
But seriously, on paper this Braga team knocked out Celtic and Seville in CLQ’s, I think that stands on it’s own.
The trouble is that this Arsenal team, it just comes steaming out of the blocks, year after year, and makes teams such as the respectable Braga look BLOODY ORDINARY.
We tonked them, and it could have been ten. Not a boast, TEN!
Sunderland, are you watching?
Love it, Love Arsenal
Trev @ 159,
The only cautionary note would be that he keeps his personal life in check โ but heโs 18. As long as itโs only the odd mistake, you canโt ask much more than that.
Funny enough i had a conversation on the bus into work this morning with a Fulham season ticket holder on that very subject as he was waxing lyrical about the boy, It is indeed the only thing that may hold him back as his football brain is way advanced but as i said to him i made many mistakes at 18 and still do to this day ๐ Wenger obviously now trusts him with a starting berth above more seasoned campaigners so he needs to knuckle down and repay that faith and if he does Wow a midfield of him cesc and young ramsey (who i still think could be the best of the lot) would be mouth watering !!!
Morning ๐
In the words of the late great James Brown – ‘I feel Good’!!
Two comments from me…
1. Apart from being out at 3am (no bad thing inself), young Jack had done nothing wrong. In fact, as I understand, one of the reasons he found himself in front of the local constabulary is because he wanted to help (someone in distress). I’d bet the decreasing value of my house that Wenger has already reminded him in private about his responsibilities and the need, at times, for restraint. Not forgetting he has been set a pretty decent example in the form of Cesc…..who young Jack already idolises. I personally think we have nothing to fear in that department.
2. @ Snir 175 ~ I’m feeling a similar air of cautious optimism as we look ahead to Sunderland on Saturday. Performances like we all witnessed last night will be go down in the history books just as long as we can build on them and prove our special qualities. I do so hope we can do the same again in a few days time.
Keep on believing ๐
Chippy, hilarious to think that Song Diaby Nasri and Denilson is our second best midfield line up now lolol
What’s AKB someone please?
Still buzzing with last night’s game.. It was ‘Magic’..
Snir, one good thing about the match against Sunderland is no Lee Cattermole. He was sent-off in the last game. So we’re spared from atleast one of those hard-but-fair-english tacklers.
Mark the Spark….
Arsene Knows Best
AKB = Arsene Knows Best which he does despite the best efforts of so many luddites to argue otherwise.
Thanks guys.
I’ll join the AKB’s then.
Whilst last season, the non signing of a striker in the January window had me scratching my head, I can’t honestly name another manager *right now* who could fill Le Prof’s shoes.
Love the comment above… “This is not football… this is WENGERBALL” ๐
Ain’t life grand the morning after… laaaa la laaarrr!!! ๐
Doesn’t AKB stand for ‘Arsene Knows’ Brigade??
Jack need to keep his head straight thats for sure, he doesn’t want to derail his career in any way, he’s got the best attacking midfielder in the world to learn from. Cesc was just incredible, he was everywhere, hiw he chased back to our own box. The whole team is hungry and I have feeling we’ll get the result we want at Sunderland.
Chamakh just gives as so many options up front, he can keep the ball, pass it well and he can run too, on a free transfer we got ourselfs hell of a striker.
Ok we can’t get ahead of ourselvs here but Braga are no fools right? I think we just too damn good!
Win the next match!
Come on you Almighty Reds ๐ฎ
Yes Indian Gooner ๐
I’ve heard both tbh. You’ll find ‘Arsene Knows Best’ on the tinterweb as you will ‘Arsene Knows Brigade’. They both mean the same thing.
I don’t read Le Grove.
I want an AKB T shirt!!! ๐