Arsenal Settle For A Draw In Hong Kong
Jul 29th, 2012 by 'holic
The Asian Tour came to a close in the most spectacular of settings at the Hong Kong national stadium as Arsenal played out a 2-2 draw with hosts Kitchee.
There was a relaxed air about the contest, too relaxed at times some might say, but as was evident when close-ups were shown the humidity necessitated a sensible approach. Arsenal obviously threatened going forward with Theo Walcott prominent, but defensively it is clear that Steve Bould has not had a lot of time in between the photo-calls on this tour to get to work with the squad. That is something that will change in the next fortnight as the Gunners are without a competitive fixture before the trip to Cologne
The opening goal was something of a nightmare for Ignasi Miquel, but finished tidily by Yago. Theo had already gone close with one effort from the edge of the box before he was released by Abou Diaby to drive the ball home at the near post. The contest was entertaining at least.
It was interesting to see the midfield set-up with Diaby in the advanced role and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain supporting Francis Coquelin in behind. The young England international clearly has another string to his bow in his pursuit of a more regular place in the side this coming season.
Although always a threat going forward Arsenal’s central defenders allowed the home side to take the lead for a second time as Cancela cashed in. Ignasi Miquel, so impressive against Manchester City, will have better days than this. To single him out would be unfair as the inexperienced starting back four were collectively poor in the opening half.
Diaby could have spared the half-time blushes had he applied the finish to a superb break he himself instigated. Put clear by Chamakh in the final minute of the half he sliced wide when a second equaliser beckoned.
The outfield players found themselves replaced at varying stages of the second-half which turned into something of a procession. Kitchee’s second string lacked the quality of their starting line-up and Arsenal controlled the ball almost throughout. Star-billing went to Gervinho, on for Ryo Myaichi, who tormented his markers although usually double-teamed. It was inevitable that he would provide the assist for young Thomas Eisfeld to score his second goal of the tour.
It was surprising that Arsenal didn’t turn their superiority into a winning goal, but there was a feeling that perhaps the result was, if not contrived, then settled for in front of an enthusiastic crowd who cheered the goals of both sides in equal measure. The object of the exercise was to build on the Arsenal brand in Asia, and it is clear that objective has been achieved. The expected penalty shoot-out failed to materialise, and both teams had the pleasure of being presented with the Jockey Club Cup, held aloft somewhat sheepishly by Mikel Arteta.
Now the squad will return for far more strenuous work on the pitches of Shenley. With the tour over some serious discussions can take place. There will hopefully be a quick resolution to the van Persie and Walcott situations. Hopefully a couple of the various new signings that are under negotiation will also be resolved prior to the trip to Cologne, when presumably we will want to take the only remaining competitive opportunity to blood the new boys before the serious business of the Premiership gets underway.
572 Responses to “Arsenal Settle For A Draw In Hong Kong”
No pun?
Thirst
Well in Ollie.
Well in Ollie. dashed hopes for a summer triple.
Jenkinson was good in Asia.
Off to kitcheen.
Some farmery type (I suppose) once said; make hay while the sun shines, sound advice indeed. Now, I’m not in the hay making business, nor do I have much use for any hay related products, but the sun has been shining, which has been good for beer garden related business plus the dryness of the climate has given me a chance to do some necassary outside renovation on the old farmhouse building. Those factors have meant my internet and tv watching time were virtualy non exsistant. On one hand it has meant I can avoid the tedium of this silly seasons transfer speculation, on the other hand I have missed the fun here in the bar (incl Tabs week, nice articles, sir) and all the pre season games.
I noticed this morning that I got an email for the new FFL thingy, would be grateful if the GH league code has already been posted that someone could repost it, if it hasn’t then I eagerly await it.
A big hello to all the reg’s and a drink of choice on the bar from me for all.
Crap game, but it was nice to be able to sit outside in the sun to watch it on my laptop. I think that is just about all the analysis anyone needs to do.
The weather is nice, and tonight Marillion (one of my all-time favourite bands) are playing here in Stockholm and I’ll be there with an old friend I haven’t seen for a good few years, and of course we’ll meet up down the pub before. Should be good fun!
Last year the pre- season was cocked up by an inability to sort out the squad in preparation for the season. This year it would seem to my untutored eye that we are going into the season with one proper game as preparation. The one against Cologne.Should we sign a couple of he payers we are being linked with even before the season we will ave no time to bed down the team before th serious stuff begins.
It looks like we may well play a different formation next year and we will certainly have a lot of new combinations that need to bed down. Surely it makes sense to bring things together well befor we start playing.This tour might be useful in commercial terms but in playing terms it has been useless
Tiny, was it a bit Hong Kong Poo-ey?
Re the Ox playing in central midfield, I recall AW saying sometime back that that was where he would likely end up playing rather than as a Walcott-type winger.
Oh I see you chaps are behaving so its back to bed for me then. If the boss says its a good result for us then his word is good enough for me … Safe travel back home lads ..
π
Thankz for the match report, ‘holic and enjoy your Sunday roast in a country restaurant. It sounds lovely. π
Very good day all. Holic, your match report is somewhat Tabs-esque, ah, just being cheeky. Player won’t show the match till tomorrow, but now at least I know what to concentrate on, so to speak. From what I’ve heard and read of the match, I’m very optimistic of our chances, this upcoming season. So much raw talent available to us, how can anyone have doubt. Keep the faith all.
We’ve had the raw talent for years, ABB. It is turning it into consistent team that wins week in, week out that has been the struggle. Yet like you, I have this feeling that the coming season is going to be a good one. And if this squad can be kept together and fit for 24 months it will be good enough to win the league plus a lot more silverware.
Evening all. Just to share some of my thoughts and experiences from coming to see the game live today in Hong Kong. This is only my second time ever seeing the Red and White in action live, the first being Dennis Bergkamp’s testimonial match at Ems’ opening. Whereas I sat way up in the stands at the Ems, I was very lucky and privileged to sit at the second row from the front today, behind the bench and to the right.
What was immediately good to see was a sellout crowd at the stadium, I literally saw almost no empty seats. Seeing Arsene from quite close was also a heartening experience, the genius himself at work, and gosh he looks very tall in person I have to say.
As the game kicked off, it’s all too apparent that Arsenal, not for the first time, started the game very slowly and had a hard time getting into the game. Kitchee FC dominated the midfield quite comfortably in the opening stages, we did not press off the ball hard enough for me, and when we got possession our players were rather sluggish in keeping it. Diaby looked a little off the pace, although he did show his odd touches of brilliance here and there. His contribution for Arsenal’s opener should also be applauded. The Ox and Coq will also have better games than this for sure, not because they played bad, but more because we all know they’re capable of bossing the midfield much better. In any case, the most important thing is that the lads got a very decent, and particularly in the first half, competitive workout. Perhaps our midfield just lacked a competitive edge in the first half. I also have to mention that having Arteta in the second half instantly made our build up plays a lot better, and we also kept possession so much better. His experience in midfield was a major miss in the first for sure. It is also nice to see how Arteta really makes other players around him play better, especially Ox, Coq, Jenks, and Aneke. Looks like this season he will have a big role to play in our success, much like last year.
Our defenders kept the line well for the most part, although Miquel will certainly regret his part in Kitchee’s opener. Their second goal was very well taken after Chezny initially made a wonderful close range stop. Still work to do on the defensive department, but I’m sure Bould and AW will work on improving this until the start of the season. It is also good to see Bould getting very involved with the players before the game and during halftime. Legend in my books for sure. Gibbs looked a little off his usual blistering pace as well, although I’m sure this is just down to fitness, as is the case for most other players.
Our two starting wingers, Theo and Ryo, both put in decent shifts. I felt Ryo should’ve taken more risks today going forward, although AW’s postgame revelation of his ankle problem probably explains this. Theo, though, was quite brilliant going forward. He’s prepared to take more shots, mostly decent curlers, and his goal was also well finished. Chamakh, on the other hand, still looked bereft of confidence. Aside from one counter attacking play where he set the ball for Diaby to shoot wide, Chamakh looked out of form. At times he would even get outmuscled by Kitchee’s defenders. For Arsene to consider playing him again, surely Chamakh will need to do better still, and you can feel he may well start running out of time.
Having gone 2-1 down at halftime, the secondhalf subs really made their mark in the game. Aneke was a big presence in midfield, very impressive for me. Yennaris was solid. Gervinho was superb, outsmarting his opponents at every turn, twist, and bursts. I really hope he can continue to build on this form and have a great start to this season. Afobe linked up really well with others around him, and had two great chances to score as well. The first was a sitter, and he unfortunately dragged his effort a little to hit the post. The second was a free header that he put oer the bar, although he deserves credit for leaping high and timing the header decently in the first place. Eisfeld also put in a solid shift, he looks like a really intelligent player, and his finish again solidifies his newfound persona as a clinical, Icecold finisher. Fingers crossed this last minute signing of our last winter transfer window can prove to be an Arsene masterclass in the near future.
Aside from the game, it was also fun to see players warming up near the touchline, namely Eisfeld, Song, Arteta and Yennaris. Song, in particular, warmed up a lot near where I sat, and at one time everyone at my stand chanted “Song, Song, Song” to which he shyly smiled and waved at us. Great stuff. A night to remember for sure. Here’s hoping this could be a start of a memorable season for all Gooners. One of many down the years… But hopefully with a better ending than most in very recent times.
Derrick, Thoroughly enjoyed your first hand observations on the match. How exciting it must have been for you to see it all unfold…! Here’s some trivia on our Gervinho, his favorite dish is rice with peanut sauce (yummy) and his backup team is Barca! Like many, I believe he is a terrific talent, yet to reach his potential, but he’s really trying. You’re right on the mark about Arteta, he is the cement we need in midfield. What is so encouraging, is that we’re seeing the lads not afraid to take shots, and they haven’t been far off the target, either.
Derrick – great post thanks for sharing it with us..
NBN, Yes, plus we haven’t even seen yet how the new signings of Poldi and Giroud, will enhance our game. I’m guessing it’s gonna be something special. Plus remember, Kos, Sagna, BFG weren’t involved in the Asia Tour. Yep, this is going to be one rip roaring season! Oh to be a gooner…
Nice one Del Boy.
Thank you Derrick for your first hand impressions. It’s very exciting to hear about the big game atmosphere but I fear I jinxed Miquel after my positive comments on here about him yesterday. π π
Hey 8ball, no, he did it to throw Barca off. But he didn’t fool us. There’s gold there.
Cheers Derrick. Just like being there.
Thanks for the word direct from Happy Valley, Derrick. Brought back some memories of going there when it was still the old Government Stadium. Been a bit spiffed up since then.
You are spot on about Arteta. The team, and especially Song, missed him badly at the tail end of last season. Hope he stays fit throughout the coming one. He is the finished version of what I think AW hoped Denilson would develop into but didn’t.
Nice post Derrick –
Missed the whole game personally, travelling down to the West Country, so appreciate the effort which must have taken longer than the match !
Good te see a Derrick that reports so rigorously, very refined stuff without any crude remarks. O’ill eagerly await the next issue on this Goonerholic platform if there are any more in the pipeline.
Glad you had a barrel full of fun at the game. π
Thanks Derrick. Just back from the pub and your post means a lot.
Up the Gunners.
Nice one, Derrick. Fortunate boy, you.
BMBD
Derrick, great post. Have a pint on my tab!
Put your card away for one night Lars. This one is on me π
“Steve Bould has not had a lot of time in between the photo-calls on this tour to get to work with the squad.”
What if he has had lots of time and is making them worse? Singalong now… Always look on the bright side of life… π
Behave yerself π
Anybody else worried about this season? We only have 1 pre-season game left. We still havent played a single game with what is probably going to be our first choice strikers yet. We havent played a single game with our first choice defence.
We have a very tough start to the season..
This is 2011 all over again.. coz we look totally unprepared to hit the ground running.
Nice report Derrick. I felt I was there with you. Great stuff ..
@ Sajit: Take two of these and go lie down mate. Freaking out in pre-season doesn’t bode well ..
π
I have watched all the pre season games so far. Defensively we looked very poor during this Tour. Mr Bould need to get going and fast. The highlight for me is Eisfeld, fabulous player, very smart and tidy, a bit like a young Rosicky.
Thanks for the nice feedback guys. Just woke up after what was a really surreal experience yesterday. Theo and Gerv were really impressive last night against the Hong Kong league champions, with a clinical striker to finish our attacking moves we can really push far this season. And at least AW acknowledges there’s more defensive work to do.
Trev @24 *groan* !! π
Gents
I don’t see any major reason for concern at this stage.
There is absolutely no comparison between where we are right now and this point last year. This time last year we had signed only Gervinho as a likely first team starter. We had all but lost Cesc ( the absolute heart of the team) and had Nasri clinging onto the squad like the little parasite he is.
More importantly, and I think this is too easily overlooked, we had a coterie of second string players who were either vanishing on loan (Denilson, Vela) or miserable and praying for a loan move (Bendtner, Almunia, Traore). Throw in the uber-lazy Arshavin and you have a seriously unhappy squad.
This time round, we have signed two quality forwards and are seemingly advanced in our pursuit of a couple of fine midfielders. More importantly, the pre season tour has shown signs that the second string is in much better health – Miquel looked great against City, the Ox appears likely to take another big step forward, Aneke impressed, Afobe looks raw but willing, Elsfield has been a wonderful surprise and Diaby appears to finally be fixed (fingers crossed). Coquelin has also emerged as a potential star in the last 12 months. I’m short, our squad depth looks a hell of a lot better than it did.
I’m not saying we’re going to get off to a flyer – lord knows our opening games look tough and we still have to get shot of the ungrateful Dutchman without too much disruption – but I don’t feel anywhere near as concerned as I did this time last season.
Very much looking forward to the season opening. It looks to me like our squad is easily strong enough to lock down a top four spot, which is the minimum requirement. Whether we can push on and win something will depend on how quickly Arsene can integrate the new elements.
Compare and contrast with Spurs: their keeper is geriatric, their manager is a foetus, they have one recognised forward in the squad, their best CB has retired and they have all those tricky Thursday night fixtures to navigate. Now THAT’s a team that need to worry – I know whose shows I’d rather be in.
COYG
Christ – “in short”, rather than “I’m short”.
I’m actually quite tall.
Morning All
‘Holic – Good point re: a possible contrived result. It’s good for the club to bolster our support out in HK. From experience, there are plent of HK Gooners already so this latest tour should help to swell those numbers (do you have a cream for that Trev?).
Derrick – Nice match report. Haven’t seen the highlights yet but sounds like another decent pre-season workout for the boys. I’m wondering if Eisfeld will get a chance or two in the first team this year?
N7 – No major concerns here other than to conclude the major part of our transfer dealings (in and out) in the shortest possible time now. Easy to type isn’t it? Agree that Sp*rs are, as usual, in worse shape but I would like us to be comparing ourselves to the Manc clubs. They are probably going to be the ones to beat again this year.
Dr.C – Back on the Misters? π
Mr Catalan –
Not quite a gushing remark, but tanks anyway. π
Hey TS –
This Eisfeld lad does seem to have the knack of being in rhe right place at the right time.
Unquestionably the next Goetze at 1/35 the price !!!
Arsene knows. π
N7: I fully agree with you, I have been saying for a long time that the similarities between now and a year ago are very few. We are in MUCH better shape right now than we were then. That does of course not mean that we will neccessarily go on to have a better season but we’ve certainly given ourselves much better chances of doing better this time around.
Trev – Oil drink to that. A definite prospect. May need a year or two of refining though?
Lars knows at #41.
N7 and Lars –
Agreed, agreed.
A greedy, on the other hand, little chap, is Theo Walcott.
I wonder if he has had any time to think – since May, by the way ! – whether or not he fancies staying at a club who have seen him through various long term injuries, surgeries and losses of form.
All this whilst paying him a fabulous amount of money, which sees him proclaiming in the latest edition of the Arsenal magazine that he would not swap his house (“i love my house”), or his car (Ferrari is pictured), with anyone. Or his life. Or his mum, presumably.
The same magazine lists Gervinho’s favourite food as ‘rice and peanut sauce’ – saw that ine Abb – while I imagine Theo favours a platter of caviar and cheeky bloody sauce.
The truth of the matter could well be that Theo looks around himself and sees the blooming talent of The Ox and The new Eis Man, and wonders whether his place is all that safe.
Personally, I hope he stays, but I wish he would blooming well get on with it.
Hurry up “young man”, to quote Brian Clough.
“And sign before The Arsenal change their mind”, to quote Perry Groves.
Mr N7, FΓΆrlorar Lars
Fully agree with you. Barring the obvious benefit from getting an extra game in before the season, I really do not understand some of the negativity IΒ΄m reading in the Interweb. Are we never fucking content??
Mr TS, Mr Trev
I believe that one should always look to uphold high standards of etiquette.
Sir H2H,
welcome back. You may want to restock on your vodka supplies… a few of your Breakfast Specials have been quaffed recently!
Catalan –
We, the positive folks, are very fortunate that the Internet, and it’s cerebrally challenged warriors, were not around in the mid-seventies through to the late-ish eighties.
Coffees on the bar Gents, but no cakes at this time of day.
Holidays are great – breakfast at 10.00 !
Beats elbowing TS’s arse !! π
Hmm, Mr Catalan – “fΓΆrlorar”? To “fΓΆrlora” is to lose, are you calling me a loser? π
Trev@43: you do have to wonder what’s keeping him from signing that new contract which I am quite sure is there for him to sign of he just gets his thumbs out.
Elbowing TS’s arse? Ok, no more details please!
@ Trev: Sir! So what happened to doctor-patient confidentiality? One notes Mr. CG’s post: “I believe that one should always look to uphold high standards of etiquette.” An iThrashing has been dispatched to The West Country.
iOuch ! π
Sorry, that should of course, this week, have read, “Ooh aarrrhhhh!”. π
Mr Lars
So sorry old chap – let down by Google translate! π
Gentlemen, what is the state of the HT?? I hear that there are rumours of another prce increase this year?
@50 –
My seat has been frozen, old chap. π
It needed to be after TS’s iThrashing, too.
Dear Mr. C. Gunner
Re: Your question on ticketing prices for the HT for the 12/13 season. Please refer all such enquiries to Dr. Z. Feelgood c/o The Feelgood Foundation and he will guarantee to answer your questions before the end of the next season when further adjustments to the pricing structure would have been implemented.
I trust that’s clear.
Yours sincerely, Edwin.
PS: It looks like the treatment carriage will be popular again. Will you be taking up your usual position? It looks like Mr.T’s will be elbows down.
Mr T and I are busy preparing The Quackery as I write.
Private & Confidential
Feelgood Foundation Employees Only:
Happy Train MkII has been completely re-furbished for 2012-13 travel. All functionality remains as per 2011-12 but on the inaugural journey, the crew will be decked out in a horrendous purple uniform, courtesy of Mike, the backstreet tailor.
We will use an inverted dynamic pricing model. Renewal of travel tickets will only be available online. We will open a βwindowβ at 10am on 17th August, at which point the user will be able to βaccessβ their tickets. This will of course be extremely inefficient, resulting in the price increasing the longer the user is kept waiting in the queue. We will maximise profit by kicking the user out of the online ticketing system just as they get to the front of the queue, thus resulting in them repeating the process to access the only seats available, which are of course will have become more expensive.
We are confident that this approach to ticketing can be sold onward and Dr Feelgood is looking for an early opportunity to meet with Mr Ivan Gazidis to discuss both the patent of the ticketing system and the price of creosote.
Message ends
TS, MrC, zico – π :). π
“inverted dynamic pricing model” – priceless, if you catch my drift.
Feelgood,
Would you please open a window in The Quackery on 17th August too, if not before. I have good reason to believe that Mr C, who seems to have adopted an inverse dynamic monikering structure too, has been overdoing the garlic and onion relish on the tapas again.
Thanks, in desperation.
Heh! @ Dr.z π
Afternoon HT’ers.
No probs Mr C, vodka supplies are up to max on this end, in fact a round of breakfast BM’s to get the H train back on the rails, so to speak.
… and @ Mr. iT π
Good afternoon H2H. Trust all is well with you and yours. I’ll pass on the BM, thanks but will take a rain cheque if that’s OK with you. What news from the lowlands?
I’ll have a BM, thanks Sir H2H. If you could pop a garlic clove in the mix too, I’d appreciate it. I have noticed Nurse Wolfie throwing me a few glances recently. Need to put her off the scent, so to speak.
Don’t know what’s got into her. Ever since that James Bond made an appearance on tv the other day. Carlos needs to get back from Peru as soon as.
Don’t know what’s wrong with Mr T. Seems to be avoiding me recently.
BM for Mr C.
A raincheck for TS, would you like an umbrella in that?
All here is well in the Lands of Low, cheers, been busy doing bar and renovation related stuff, very time consuming but ultimitly well worth the effort, as not only is the establishment getting busier by the week, it’s also starting to look half decent. (I’ll post some before/after pics on the website in the not too distant future)
Soooo, when is Team GB gonna get off the schnide a claim Gold?
BMBD
– a
+ and
bmbd
Oh yeah, watched a bit of the Olympics last night in the form of a footy game. Totally irratating and increadably tedious to keep hearing Great Britian refered to as Team GB, what are we becoming? Second hand wannabe Yanks? As usual Lawro was completely depressing, when is someone just gonna stab him in the throat and be done with it? But I digress….
The reason I watched said spectacle was when I was zapping through the channels I caught a glimpse of our highly criticised, (even when undeserved) last term, midfielder Aaron Ramsey. Due to not seeing any of our pre-season games I thought it was the very least I could do to check out how the young Welshmann was getting on. Must say, I thought he looked more then decent, was well involved in the game and put in a good shift. Also seems very assured when on the ball.
More of the same this season please Master Ramsey.
Good day mates! Hey Lonestar, that was a terrific game by team GB, 3-0. Our Aaron put in a good shift and the team has finally come together. Now I finally saw the whole Hong Kong game…in a NAME, Gervinho! My nickname for him will remain twinkle toes, what a talent he is. This is just for Dr Feelgood, I did not read your memo, I promise (bad ass grin on me face).
H2H
No umbrella required, thanks!
Well said re: Ramsey. I thought the same thing based on the highlights that I saw.
Hey Lonestar, my Team GB gripe was not aimed at you, but at the commentry team for the footy game on the Beeb last night.
hmm, In my excitement over Gervinho, I reported the final score wrong, twas 3-1. What the heck, we won.
H2H @ 65
You probably could not see this, what, with being on the internet and all, but I put my hand up when you asked:
when is someone going to stab him in the throat and be done with it
although I recoginse that there could in fact be a queue….. 8)
Heh Zico
*recognise*
I know it’s a bit too early to be sure of anything, and hey, I’m not expecting anything other than a good go, but still, I’m officially booking myself a ticket on the HT MkII with this little tune ringing in my ears:
http://youtu.be/W93UG5Vsmus
Such a gritty sound. Heavier than heavy metal.
No worries, H2H. It’s about time I irritated someone in the bar. The season isn’t started good and proper until I do.
Cheers, ABB!
Actually, my question was aimed more at the entire Great Britain Olympic effort (not just footie), yuze guys need to “pop that cherry” and grab a gold medal.
Still, it was good to hear Ramsey is on good form. I really like this kid. I also welcome the more long-distance efforts featured on the Asia tour. We can benefit from adding an extra dimension to our game.
I’m getting amped up over here regarding the season. Edwin, are HT Mk II.5 tickets in the mails for us New-World (and don’t you forget it) travelers?
BMBD
HT Mk II.5 for the New-World?
The American Express?
I’ll take the credit for that….
COAT!
I dont think it’s a huge deal to be frank. Friendlies are friendlies. As long as the lads get the fitness up, it’s a success. We went to China and back with no injuries!
But a short trip to Stoke and we’ll be on life support I bet.
There is no HT Mk II.5
The HT MKII is alive and well.
Watch out for the new lederhosen on one of the Feelgood Foundation employees on match day though, in his/her own words Regal Purple. π
Dr. Z –
So is the upgraded and renovated HT Mk II “like a new train?” (“LANT”)
If so, I question where the DLL Ltd / Feelgood Foundation revenues are going. Have the leadership been properly re-investing in the ridership?
Or have the leadership been “pumping money” out of the organization? Are we spending what we earn?
Nutz, I say. I move for some deep-pocketed, oil sheikh-sugar daddy. Wanger…I mean Edwin OUT!!!
BMBD
According to Le Prof we will have “like” two new signings come October (Diaby and Wilshere). Classic Wenger speak (aka Wengerian).
Let’s hope both Wilshere and Diaby can last a season w/o injury upon their returns. I may be asking too much though.
Oh, and Up the Arse β
No need to fret about where the money is going Lonestar…..
All being invested carefully πΏ
If you say so, Dr. F.
Last thing I want is to be branded a Usmanov-class passenger.
(Edwin out.)
BMBD
On this issue, I shall remain… silent
BMBD
If the Guv’nor pops up, cryptic message: I’ve got it π
@ Lonestar
Silent?
Nice one, partner π
Purple is Donny Osmond’s favorite (favourite) color. Gets car keys. On mission to squelch transfer rumour that Ashley Cole is going to United.
Toby,
I think you will find you have to apply for a ticket on the HT Mk II, you do not just book one.
It’s a privelege to ride along, akin to ordering a Lambourghini. You don’t just get one ‘cos you want one – one has to be of the right calibre.
Unless, of course, things have changed, in which case I unreservedly (no pun intended !) apologise.
Highly skilled professionals such as myself and Mr C are, of course, exempt from such degrading procedures, as our special abilities are in constant demand, in order to keep the staff, and the odd passenger, fit.
Talking of which, Mr C, have the new season’s supplies of Auntie Beechams arrived ?
I have taken the liberty of ordering you a large box of activated charcoal and a window pole. π
I like it best when the HT is in the TT (Tollie Terminus) π
Hah, here he is.
Re: H2H @62. If your renovations look as good as you make them sound I’ll have to plan a side trip to the Lands of Low the next time I’m on your side of the pond. Tollie, Ems, Chez Bar H2H. That’s a worthy itinerary. Now it’s time to start budgeting for it. π
Evening ‘Holic,
I think The Tollie like it best when you’re in there too. π
Hey H2H, good to see you. π
Re: Feelgood @54. Sounds like a moneymaker to me. π
Whoops . I think that was zico’s idea …
Santi Carzola removes Malaga from his Twitter Bio & isn’t present in Malaga’s Team Kit Shoot even though he is their best player, the transfer to Arsenal is imminent π #ITK(FT)
@ 87.
In order to keep the staff and the odd passenger fit
Some observations:
The staff are fit to drop.
All the passengers are odd.
The staff are extremely odd.
Having said all of that, Toby, you get a complimentary ticket for having sampled the ale in The Drovers π
We do our best, Feelgood.
Not even you can ask more than that.
8ball @ 94
I think Feelgood will claim it for his own π
When did Santi Cazorla overtake Messi? π
Takes off his doctor’s coat and dives into rhe six yard box……..
Re: N7 #36. One true forward at Sp*ds? You must refer to Saha?
Wow, trev’s practice pays off….
The master…of the assist π
And he lands bonce first on the ball from the Gun’vor, well in Trev π
Cheers ‘H, and fellas. π
Slotted with surgical precision ……
In the case of NB52 it sounds like a case of “deja vu all over again.”
http://gossip.ladyarse.com/2012/07/bendtner-fined-for-driving-offences-goes-shopping/?
@ 103
Roxette calls it enabling π
Wind – that account is fake despite Llorente following it.
Ok so here it goes – Oil Taci is NOT gonna buy Malaga, giving them 27 hours to save themselves from losing their Uefa license and getting relegated.
Regardless, Cazorla has a change of ownership clause which makes him available for transfer if the ownership changes hands.
Either way, he’s leaving. Either to raise some funds for Malaga or because of the ownership change.
As for Sahin, he will be an Arsenal player as well. He wants RM to add a buy option on the loan, something that they reluctant to do.
In addition, Arsenal are trying to haggle a bit, and not pay 100% of his wages.
M’baye Niang has chosen Arsenal, and if AW tries again, he’ll be an Arsenal player.
M’Vila – Rennes want to sell him and conducted their incomings in such a matter. They want Β£12m, Arsenal are trying to pay Β£8m in initial payments.
Snir,
Good to see you again. That is either amazing news, or you are banned from going within 50 metres of the CMC.
Where have you got all this info from ?
Hey Snir. That drink has the ring of inside information. If it’s all true it’s happy days. Do you have sports management pals scattered across Spain and France? π
Snir the seer returns!
How are you Trev ;)?
That’s what happens when I’m out of the bar, all the info gets stacked up, so it looks like a lot of info lol π
8ball – nothing of the sort (yet π ) , I’m just observant and have an immaculate memory π
I’m ok thanks. You’ve obviously been busy. π
Its been too long since I expressed my love for PHW.
Love you guv’nor, now and for ever!
Never in doubt.
AW again looks like skin and bones in the picture with Steve Bould on arsenal.com. Shouldn’t he explain the reason publically or has he already?
In news of importance to Happy Train passengers, Al Jazeera appears to be out in front with its coverage. Nice photo too. π
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/americas/2012/06/20126215588289352.html
Wasn’t there a Uruguayan gooner posting on here at one point?
Legalised?
Don’t they realise I have children to feed? π
Good thing for you Feelgood that Uruguay is a small market. π
bt8b@116. Same thought struck me when I saw that picture. He has been looking thinner than of old for a while, but his arms are skin and bones in that photo.
Holy Schnikey.
AW does not look well at all in that photo. Somebody has to know something. What is the deal?
BMBD
I’ve been saying it since before the tour, Lonestar. He looks an ill man. Get well soon, Le Boss.
Y’know I’ve been getting this warm inner glow of late (unfortunately not a Uruguayan “glow”) reading between the lines of the potential transfer activity that appears to be still on going. Despite the fact that my Bullshit radar, like everyone else, is on high alert during the transfer windows, I am somewhat buoyed with what I’ve seen so far from Wenger and indeed the current mumblings would also seem to have some element of substance to them.
We’re likely to see at least 2 more signings (and probably more) to add to Poldy & Giroud. Then we have the return of Jack and Diaby. Not to mention the emergence Coquelin and Oxlade to challenge for first team places. And to top it all, we have even younger talents beginning to make their mark in young Eisfeld, Ryo and Afobe. Much different from last year – and quite ambitious prospects I would have to say..!
Someone better tell Theo that he should be more concerned about making the damn team than levering for a better contract..!
Are we taking about Arsenal FC here? No major departures? And 19.5 mi worth of transfer players in the bag.
Meh…
Sajit, do I need to warn you? I suspect not…
‘Holic, Lonestar –
Arsene does indeed look very thin, but he is at an age when he will lose muscle mass. When you are such a thin build anyway any further loss can start to look unhealthy.
All fairly obvious stuff, but add to that the strain he must be feeling.
Trying to rebuild a squad in a market where he knows, if it comes to the crunch, he cannot compete.
The players that he has developed into world class performers continue to walk out the door for their own perplexing reasons.
Long term injuries continue to sideline many of the top players who remain.
Some of those he has put long term faith in have failed to make the grade.
The unrest between the major shareholders cannot help.
The media line up to criticise every move made by the club, the directors, the players and the manger himself.
Many so called supporters are not much better.
And after all that, he is still sitting smiling with the new number two, who has just replaced the assistant who was with him for the last fifteen years.
I’ll join you in wishing him ‘all the best’, and hope that the smile is a good sign.
Maybe he was watching a sprint race between Santos and Arshavin.
G’night. π
Jesus Christ, you need to have a funny bone in your body Holic.. :
How in any form or manner am I abusing Arsenal or Arsene? Im as pleasantly surprised by how things have turned out
‘Holic & Trev,
From your lips to God’s ears. Stay strong and healthy Arsene. We’d be lost without you.
Sajit’s in idget mode…(See what I did there?) π
BMBD.
Trev –
A race between Santos and Arshavin…lmao!
BMBD.
A pie eating race? lol!
My money would be on Arshavin!
Yes, chef!
BMBD
This shirt sponsorship deal between the Mancs and General Motors has a whiff of something not very pleasant. $60 million-70 million a year for seven years and the head of marketing for GM, who negotiated it, is fired within hours of it being announced.
A race between Arshavin and Santos? It would never start. Arshavin too knackered to get out of the blocks and Santos too busy tucking into his grub.
Re: NBN @133. It’s interesting about GM considering they almost went out of business about the same time that AIG, their shirt sponsor before AON, actually did go out of business (about 3 years ago or so). Lesson for corporate sponsors: Sponsor the Man Utd shirt and prepare to flirt with bankruptcy. Both financial and moral, I might add.
Well, maybe AIG are back in business now but they had to do some major corporate restructuring to avoid the absolute end I believe.
Some shirt numbers being dolled out: Woj takes over the no 1 vacated by Almunia. Bartley getting the unoccupied 35. No number for Miquel though. The Coq moves up from 39 to 22. Giroud gets 12, as expected. Podolski still numberless, as is Lansbury. 13 (ex-Woj) is now the highest vacant number, though 9 (Park) and 10 (van Persie) may become available.
bt8b@135: π
Beyond the sheer expense of the deal (more than twice as much as AON is paying per season), what is interesting is that the deal will be used to support the Chevrolet marque, which doesn’t have much of a presence in the UK. Chevy’s top three markets are the US, Brazil and China, followed by Russia, Mexico, Canada, Argentina, Uzbekistan, India and Colombia. Probably gives an indication of where the Mancs will be doing their pre-season tours for the the seven years following the start of the deal in 2014-15.
Lansbury was allocated 46 last season, so will probably move higher. Squallaci’s 18, Arshavin’s 23 or the vacant 30 all possibilities.
Spanish press report Arsenal will sign Santi Cazorla for β¬20m today!
Morning, again, Snir!
As you and I were just discussing, how Twitter is full of shit but also within that shit tends to lie the truth….
Perhaps you could share with the regulars 3 or 4 of the sources that you have found to be reliable (or at least they try their best rather than being wind up merchants)?
I think IΒ΄ve got most of them, but you are undoubtedly king of rumours! π
very happy with the Santi news. Hope Sahin joins too. RVP to Juve? Yes please. A bit disturbed by Barca sniffing around Song.
PLease please please. Before you do anything else this morning, go to Arseblog and watch the video of BFG, Poldi and Bac dancing!
Your day will be better for it…! π
Almunia to Watford?
HE’ll get to retrieve all these balls that he misled into next door’s training ground π
Ned, I suspect Lansbury will move to a higher number…at a different club.
Or did an injurythat escaped me mean he missed out on the tour?
Ollie
A shin injury picked up on day before travelling. Apparently.
Hark now hear the North Bank sing
Snir is the rumour king !
Good dance link CG – the BFG surprisingly good !
LANSbury – no please don’t. π
ayeTrev! π
Nice transfer news Snir π
I’m certain Santi will sign, some big Twitter Transfer News Accounts are staking their accounts on the principle that if he doesn’t sign within the next 48 hours, they’ll delete them. Some high-risks, but you don’t go into them without a certain certainty.
But the Sahin news is heartening to hear, if its such issues as a buy clause or wages then it should be resolved soon hopefully.
Morning All
Heh! @ Ollie re: Almunia. Very harsh but probably fair. How’s the summer going for you, BTW?
Mr. iT – Aplogies, but I have no interest in your surgical slot.
Wind/Snir – There are monstrous rumblings now re: Cazorla as there were about M’Vila. I’ll wait for .con to confim either way before popping any champagne corks. BTW, I’m just as interested to see who wins the race to the exit door this summer. Current top contenders are TGSTEL, Park & Squilly. I wonder what the odds are on both Arshavin and Chamakh staying put?
Mr. Dr. C Sir – I fully endorse your post @ #142. It is the funniest thing I’ve seen since Joe Jordan turned round to the beying Emirates crowd behind him and started offering a few out during the 5pur2 match.
Last but not least, ‘Holic really knows @ #88…. But I really, really hope he’s wrong @ #122
Aaah, thanks DRC145.
Hi TS, fine, well, working but not very efficiently (independent of my own will), in a not-very-healthy company.
Apart from that, fine and chilled, just impatient for the season to start.
Hope you’re well.
I think Ollie knows again @ #144. Lansbury looks like a good prospect to me…. just not at Arsenal. Can’t quite put my finger on why. Suggestions on a post card?
Good to hear you’re keeping your self well, Ollie and in conditions that would suit a decent bottle of white.
Morning all, I see Cazorla is trying to beat M’Vila in the competition to be the player to sign for Arsenal the most times in the least amount of time. M’Vila is still ahead by 86 signings to 55, but Cazorla is closing in fast with Sahin a dark horse for a late run for the finishing line. Exciting times, these!
Joe@123: Theo certainly needs to start thinking about keeping his place in the starting XI before stalling on contract negotiations – or maybe thinking about playing time is exactly what he is doing? I don’t think it is at all inconceivable that he is seriously worried by the competition.
TS@150: I think I’d actually be more surprised to see Arshavin still at the club when the window closes than Chamakh. The latter going on the asian tour but not the former is to me and indication that Arsene hasn’t ruled out keeping him.
Well, when I say “morning” I realize it’s half-twelve in England and one hour later here so “afternoon” would probably have been more appropriate π
Nice one Lars. Just how many Cazorlas & M’Vilas can we sign? I’m sure we’ll make another signing this summer, possibly two, but wouldn’t like to bet on who. In the meantime I’ll continue to stare long and hard at Snir’s fine crystal balls.
Yes, I also think Chammy far more likely to stay than Arsh but it’s just a guess. Perhaps our Moroccan Mauler will re-capture his long-lost form sans RVWho?
Afternoon Swedes and assorted others…
Tonight I will be installing Mountain Lion, so may never be seen online again.
Should that be the case, have a nice life all π
Lars @153: I think Arshavin, like most of our Euro 2012 players, stayed put after an extended break, whereas Chamakh travelled to Asia after a long summer break. The latter was also the only recognized striker in the Asian Tour squad, Afobe aside.
Like all Gooners, I would love for Chamakh to recapture his long lost form, although his recent performances did little to nothing to suggest this could happen.
On the other hand, Arshavin showed in the Euros he still have some magic left in his tank. There should be more interest for him, but with fitness uncertainties regarding a lot of our midfield creative players, I wouldn’t be surprised to see AW keep Arshavin in the squad, especially after his central ‘starring’ role for Russia.
We’ll have the St. Bernard’s standing by just in case, ‘Holic.
I wouldn’t put it past Chamakh to find some form again, TS. In his case, I think a lot of it appears to be about a massive lack of confidence.
Derrick: Russia went out at the same time as England, so Arshavin was back training with the squad well in time to have travelled to Asia.
As a member of both the exclusive groups of being a Swede and Having Installed Mountain Lion I’ll say what I said a few days ago – you’ll be fine ‘Holic. As long as you don’t try to run AutoCAD for Mac on it. The installation is a breeze and at least my computer (2011 MBP) got quite a bit snappier after the installation.
In fact, I’d say HIML is LANS.
Regarding Chammy, I’ll once again have to repeat myself – I would love it if he found some form, he seems to be a good enough guy and he did some serious work for us when he first got here. I do not agree fully that the pre-season games did nothing to suggest that he is finding form again. Overall he played quite well. He just didn’t score and just doesn’t look like the forward that wins you the Champions League. So, yeah, well, probably, he won’t ever make it fully with us, but I wouldn’t mind him at least regaining the form he had in the beginning (even if he doesn’t develop even further than that) and bag us a cup for us before moving on. That would be good enough a return on a player like him – good but perhaps not good enough in our deluded minds π
Afternoon all.
Enjoyed that dance link, for such a B F’in’ G, Per certainly does have the moves.
@ 126 Trev
Very good points to account for AW’s somewhat etiolated appearance. It always worries me that he never seems to take actual genuine holidays. I know he adores football and he seems to have had a great time on the tour notwithstanding the stresses. But still. Does he ever just veg out? Come on Arsene, at least eat up – give in to those alluring potatoes now and again.
Re Chamakh.
I think the quicker he goes the better.
I do agree that he did well when he first came, but since been replaced by some returning from a lengthy lay off guy, who’s name escapes me, he has contributed the square root of buggar all.
I’m also aware that some strikers thrive on confidence and need time to get into a certain rhythm or obtain an acceptable level, and herein lies the problem, he’s never going to be anymore then a bit player, can anyone really see him been chosen ahead of Poldolski or Giroud? If we can’t relie on him as an impact sub, then he’s about as much use as Park.
I’m sorry to say it, but I believe it’s time to remodel our strike force, bye bye Park, au revour Chamakh and that guy from somewhere in the Benelux, can’t recall where, can go be injured somewhere else too.
@ H2H
The Nigerian offshoot of the tour has been a big success, it is claimed. 40 million Nigerians claiming affiliation to the Arsenal. Bac a big star and since his family are Senegalese, that’s as good as being a west African to to the Nigerians. Lukas Podolski charming everyone people right left and centre, BFG impressing everyone with his moves.
Re: Lars @153. Success depends not only on signing a player the largest number of times, but also on assuring that the total number be even rather than odd, which means that in Santi Cazorla’s case we must sign him one more time (using the numbers you supplied of course). Got that?
Catalan, Thanks for recommending the Nigerian dance link. Only two problems I can identify for our preseason training routine.
1) Bakary, BFG and Poldi did not dance long enough.
2) The rest of the club were not exposed to the routine.
Otherwise this dance routine should be the fulkrum of our required training regimen for the next 18 days!!
Howdy 8 ball – Is there no end to your surreal humour? Fish. Wibble.*
* With apologies to Viz Magazine.
Toby @ #161 – If, per chance, Chamakh were to be a significant factor in us bagging a (domestic?) cup then he would surely be exhalted to the status of cult hero let alone being deemed a decent RoI.
I’m guessing that our own selective amnesiac, Sir H2H of the lowlands, does not agree with this viewpoint. He wants him shipped-out along with RVWho.
Nice posting fellas, enjoyed reading both.
‘Holic @ #156 – In keeping with you Scandinavian them, would you like liquorice with that?
*grabs coat*
This is a nice little video… beautifully done.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6NPzZlVxjo&feature=youtu.be
Catalan…hauntingly beautiful, tears in my eyes. Thanks.
Above all, the dignity of ONE man shines through….
Finally, we’ve brought somebody in to replace Cesc. The only problem is he appears to have vFb DNA.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-news/gnabry-signs-first-professional-contract
Re: TS @168: How goes it Prof. TES? Surreal humor, I find, is an excellent way to vanquish reality. π
Maybe 8ball,
But in reality, does your fish have a bicycle ?
TS @150 –
I am pleased and relieved to hear it . . . .
Catalan, the timing of your posting of that video and the speculation of Arsene’s health…kinda says it all. Unlike Sir Alex, Arsene has always taken the welfare and development of our young players to heart, stuck with them through injuries and ‘off’ spells. This is not meant to be a criticism directed towards Fergie, I’m sure deep down he has been hurt by a particular ungrateful player, but it doesn’t seem to weigh him down. I’ve been silent so far about RVP, but really, I believe Robin has broken his heart…not his will though. He will persevere.
Hehs! @ 8Ball & Mr. iT
Edwin is allegedly fine thanks, 8ball although he’s always got one eye over his shoulder for a BMBD’ing Lonestar Gunner.
Trev- No relief intended.
π
Abb –
For goodness sake “man up!”. Have to agree though, actually…
Henry, Cesc and RVP were all captain for one year, as I recall, before taking off (or demanding to be released, in RvP’s case) for greener pastures, while Gallas lasted slightly longer but was no more a successful captain than any of the others. If Vermaelen has indeed been appointed as new captain, is he a better choice than the other four, assuming of course that staying with the club is a desired quality in our captain?
abb
If RvP has indeed broken Le Boss’ heart, what must Cesc & Na$ri have done to it? I’d like to think AW’s battle hardened and too logical/philosophical to be affected like that but who knows, you could be right.
8ball
If we’re writing a job spec for captain, I’d like to add the ability to lead/drag the team over the line to win a championship (PL and/or CL).
Loyalty (your point) equally important.
Speaking of dear Arsene and all that he has to go through, there is now the inevitable media story about Barca’s impending bid for Song, and how oh the poor Arsenal would now fail to hold on to one more of their homegrown stars…
I am sure this is machination of a proud member of the species called the Football Agents.
In any case, we should get Song tied to a new contract before the 12-13 season ends.
Would be good Dr.F and it depends as much on Song as The Club.
Note that Song’s agent is Darren Dein. You may draw a certain conclusion from that or possibly not.
BTW, if you have time, check this out from Angry Of Islington. Spurs baiting doesn’t get any better than this. If you want to waste a further few minutes of your life laughing uncontrollably then the comments from the LWCs are even funnier than the article.
http://angryofislington.com/2012/07/31/who-was-in-north-london-first-arsenal-or-spurs/
TS @ 183: The most significant impression one gets — following Arsene’s career as a football manager — about his persona is the profound contradictions. The kind of contradictions that define, mould and affect artistic personalities.
Here is a polyglot, polymath and manifestly intelligent man (one would say maybe even an intellectual, but one would probably be accused of hyperbole ) who has passionately embraced what in reality is a mad man’s profession. Mad not in the sense of clinical insanity — though some Arsenal supporters have lately accused him of that as well — but a full disregard to any measured perspective and approach through which he can control and dominate over his professional surroundings. And he has assimilated those uncertainties like an Artist would do, by rising above them.
But that doesn’t mean he hasn’t suffered in the process. His sharp wit and nuanced replies to tricky questions do not hide the fact that a stoic he is not, and his emotive tendencies most likely — as is often the case with highly intelligent persons — turn inwards.
That’s a damn fine piece of posting Dr.F. *doffs cap*
I also think AW is a footbal genius and an intellectual. He has his flaws too and events of the past few years may well have taken their toll. It would be completely understandable if they have.
I also believe his legacy will outshine Chapman’s. My father was lucky enough to see Arsenal play under both managers. I’ll consider myself very lucky if I live long enough to see another Arsenal manager as great as either of those two.
Cheers for the link at 186, TS. Highly amusing.
As you say, reactions are even funnier.
Thank you, TS.
I think Arsene is the finest manager of the current era. Maybe he hasn’t won as many trophies as his contemporaries, but in terms of creating a legacy, a brand, articulating and demonstrating a particular vision of how football should be played and how the business should be conducted — all the while churning out teams that compete at the upper echelon of European football and staying fundamentally ethical in his conducts — he is unparalleled.
Deserved drink for Dr Faustus too.
Cheers yourself Ollie.
It looks like we’re drinking to Le Boss tonight. If ever there was an excuse for a beverage or two….
FFS, get a grip.
There is but one Dr F.
YES, I HAVE been enjoying corporate hospitality this afternoon, but there is no excuse for certainmembers of the Executive suffering from “identity crisis”.
Report to HR, you know who you are!
In other news, no new shiny Spaniard?
*proceeds wearily to the naughty step that is HR*
You could be Dr. FG? π
Or how about Dr.Fee & Dr.Fau? That might work…
You are all wrong about Cham. Jack seems to be the only one who can get him into the game ..
Lovely video Catalan – had me tearing up π
Or just ‘Johann’ for Dr Faustus.
Here’s the cross…lurkers.
(Edwin OUT) *will continue until I see DLL, LTD pro-formas or receive a complimentary High Roller Pass for the HT Mk II(.5)*
BMBD
Yeah to 197! 8)
Wearily and grudgingly makes concessions in a “I suppose so” sort of way to 195 but I am telling you now, Dr Disorder only reports to one Dr F and there ain’t no pact! π
Ping.
Well in Lonestar.
Lurker… And… In!
Meh! That’s what you get for seeing 199 for minutes and trying to look for a nice goal clip on the phone! And then giving up.
But well in Lonestar!
@ 198
High Roller Pass?
On the Happy Train?
Let me just deconstruct that a bit….
High? Check.
Roller? Joint, yes check.
Pass? Mmm, depends. Green eyes?
Cheers Ollie and Toby.
A toast and blessing to Arsene . *makes sign of the holies*
“May the Lord bless you and keep you, Arsene. May he make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”
*bmbd*
Heh Toby, I was wondering if you were talking to yourself of congratulating Lonestar at 202.
Heh, you know I have no qualms about congratulating myself, but alas, no.
And Zico, I think the HT just got even better. We might soon be up to Mk III.
Wonderful stuff from both TS and Dr Faustus today π
Here, here GT – well played TS and Dr Faustus.
Great video link CG, brilliant choice of music on there too.
Lonestar scored from his own cross ??? Are cards in order here ? π
Losing the will to live on this os download. Good bit of kit is the 3G iPad in these circumstances.
TS and CG, two very nice links.
Me being a bit of a history buff actually though the bai… erhm article was interesting and not just because of it’s purpose.
And the video… we’ve really been through a lot during the last seven years, not to mention the ten or so before that. So many memories, it’s strange how so many of these moments captured are moments that actually exist in your head and are instantly recognisable, regardless of after effect filters and the way in which they are joined together.
And Wenger. I don’t know what to say, I’ve had uncountable moments just on this blog the past few years when I’ve tried to put into words my respect for that man. And for me to have that kind of faith (don’t get this mixed up with faith in his ability as a coach) and respect (don’t get this mixed up with respect for his ability as a coach) for a man I haven’t met and gotten to know for real is very rare. And it is very much down to his consistency. Again, not as a football coach, but rather his consistent perseverance in the face of, well, almost the world, and his consistency in ideas and his unwavering belief that people can do better, both individually and as a society. He is an idealist and not just when it comes to Wengerball or Total Football, but in how life should be lived and he really, really, really lives as he teaches.
For that, I’ll never stop applauding him, and if I would gladly hear his opinion about anything. I’d get to hear a well formulated, well founded and insightful opinion that would probably make my life richer regardless of if I’d agree with him or not.
Damn it. Here I go again. I have nothing more to add this time around, especially since there’s been a couple of wonderful celebrations to this extraordinary man already written a couple of drinks up, by people really tapping into their poetic veins today.
Thank you, Arsenal and ‘Holics for providing entertainment and education of this class, both during season and almost especially the off-season.
Great stuff Toby. You are one of the reasons this place attracts a following of the knowledgeable and humorous. I’m very lucky you mental buggers choose to congregate here.
Seconded ‘Holic. Great posting Toby. Cheers Trev & GT.
@ #199
I would have thought Dr.Fee would have resonated nicely?
What a post from Toby. Absolutely spot on.
Well played that man and thank god we’ve got Arsene.
Wonderful tributes and comments above about Arsene, enjoyed them all. You know, Tony Adams didn’t always agree with him, especially when it came to AW’s diet regimine for the lads. Tony loved his fish and chips and wouldn’t give them up (smiles). He had this to say of AW, “One of the gifts Arsene has got is that he’s a lovely human being.” Hey, I’d like people to say that about me too! Nite all.
Faustus,
Great writing. I would agree with certain elements of what you say and I would have respectful reservations about others.
I think you brush over the trophy count a little too easily for my liking. Wenger isnβt even remotely close to Fergie who has won 12 league titles, 5 FA cups and 2 CLs. Now that really is unparalleled.
In relation to creating a brand of football. It is true that some of Arseneβs teams have played some of the most eye-catching and entertaining football any fan could want to see. But whatβs the point in scoring four, if you concede five? It might prove to be hugely entertaining, but itβs not very practical. Since 2005, our performances from a defensive perspective have been unbelievably poor and bordering on completely naΓ―ve at times. And until we get this corrected, we will not win. And until Wenger wins, his approach and brand of football will never truly get the objective appreciation it really deserves.
In relation to the business front, Wenger has been exceptional in identifying talent on a fraction of a budget of his contemporaries and keeping the club competing. But this too is not without flaws. For example, I find it hard to believe that Cesc Fabregas would have been allowed to leave Manu for 35m when he was contracted until 2015. Not when you consider Manu got 80m for Ronaldo. Neither do I think RVP would have pulled a stunt like that on Ferguson. No player at Manu would have been allowed to disrespect the club like Cesc, Nasri and now RVP have.
Whatβs my point? Wenger is too soft. Too non-confrontational. Too nice a human being. And I think this translates on the field, when many players donβt feel like they have to put in a shift to earn their coin. Ferguson consistently gets 200% out of players that are not even remotely as talented as some of the players we have.
And as for ethics. Wenger is certainly ethical and has stood by his players. But this has had positive and negative effects. I largely think if your going to look for ethics in football at all, then I think you better blow the dust of your microscope..! The entire industry high up and low down is deeply corrupt and unsavory.
Iβm not arguing with you for the sake of it Faustus. Everyone on here knows that Iβm very firmly in the Wenger camp because I do believe that he is one of the best managers in the world. And while I would be the first to acknowledge what he has done for the club as a fan, I feel that he will only get the objective respect he so eminently deserves by winning at a European level.
I think the kitman needs a word in his ear about giving Prinz Podolski the emperor’s new clothes
http://i.imgur.com/JVwgh.jpg%5B/IMG
Re: 218. Wolfie alert! Wolfie alert! π
Re: Joe @217. Fair points all. Wenger has his faults as a manager (comparing anybody to Ferguson is a hard ask) but as a man he is pure class. Considering Wenger’s tremendous achievements with Arsenal, by any marker he will go down as one of the all time great managers and we are very, very lucky to have had him.
Joe –
I just logged on for a quick late night look at the latest drinks and there is another well thought out piece from your good self, to twist the mind before an early night.
It is hard to argue with your assertions about our defence since the move to The Ems, but in a couple of seasons, 2008 and 2010, we were within a late season collapse of winning the league, and in 2006 we reached the Champions League Final, creating a new CL defensive record along the way.
However, I think you’ll find it hard to find many who disagree that we are unlikely to end our potless run until the whole team improves significantly when we don’t have the ball.
Again, you are probably right that AW will not receive the respect he deserves amongst the wider football audience, until he wins at European level.
However, he has been trying to do that against the financially doped of England, the financially favoured of Spain, and with key players whose disloyalty and disrespect have been shocking.
It is also true that Man Utd managed to wring Β£80 million out of Real Madrid for Ronaldo in a one club auction similar to the ine we faced with Cesc and Barcelona.
However (see what keeps happening here ?), it was Β£80million that Real Madrid seemed more than happy to pay, almost as a way of outdoing Barcelona for the ridiculous Β£70 million at which they valued Ibrahimovic.
It is true that, publicly, AW sometimes appears a little soft on his underperformers.
However, I doubt that the average referee or fourth official would agree with you that he is too non-confrontational.
And although he shows great patience with his players, he also exercises a ruthless streak once he is convinced that they cannot, or will not, meet the required standard.
His ethics and loyalty though, are surely not up for discussion.
I listed the stresses that he has operated under last night. But throughout them all, and with offers from many of Europe’s elite on the table, he has stood by the ambition that he has harboured for our club for 15 years.
I think and hope that the traumas of the last two summers that he has had to try to manage, have galvanised the large part of our support behind him.
I hope that they will demonstrate that like never before when the new season starts.
I believe he deserves that. I hope we deserve him.
Oh Joe I am glad I read Toby before I attempted to respond to your post … now we are good again …
π
Joe, Dr Faustus and Trev: Great Debate. Interesting, balanced arguments and counter-arguments. This is the type of intellectual debate that makes Goonerholic the best Arsenal blog, hands down. So long may it continue. Drinks for all. Lovely stuff indeed.
Thanks Trev …that’s what I would have said if was intelligent enough π
You guys are a bunch of old softies… π
BMBD
Joe, Toby, great drinks π
Lonestar @ 200, well pinged π
Here’s an except from an article from the Guardian today:
“Arsenal, who also have an interest in Real Madrid’s Turkey midfielder Nuri Sahin, have seen their defensive midfielder Alex Song linked with Barcelona. Song has two years to run on his contract.”
Haiti will land a man on the moon before Song plays for Barcelona.
s/b exerpt
@ Roberto:
“Haiti will land a man on the moon before Song plays for Barcelona”
Thanks for the vote of confidence but I wonder what price I will get with William Hill?
π
Toby, Excellent sentiments @211. π
‘Holics, I’ve spent today looking for positive updates on the Cazorla deal while working on my project, and now that I`ve finally achieved success on half of my goals I might as well put it here for everyone:
http://malagacf.diariosur.es/noticias/2012-08-01/traspaso-cazorla-arsenal-parece-20120801.html
DiarioSur is locally based and they put this up a couple of hours ago. The key statement for me is:
“…Incluso, tampoco serΓa fΓ‘cil llevar a buen puerto una oferta mejor de otro equipo, ya que el jugador seguramente no aceptarΓa irse mΓ‘s que al Arsenal.” , which translates as:
” It wouldn’t be possible to even take advantage of a better offer from another team since the player surely wouldn’t accept going anywhere other than Arsenal”
Night all π
Toby@211: beautifully put.
Bird is the word.
Cold Fact.
BMBD
Thanks Bird baby … I have been looking as well but your news is the best news ..
π
Lonestar: I would like to smoke a pipe with you just to see if you’re so smart after an hour or two
π
bird, good news, and I agree on the translation. It seems Santi is short for Santiago, and it sure sounds a lot less geeky, for what it’s worth. Let’s hope tomorrow brings even better news about the deal. π
GT – anytime, bruva…anytime π
BMBD
http://www.football365.com/f365-says/7952947/F365-Says
Something to cheer you up in the morning.
Good stuff by Mr Mangan today:
http://arseblog.com/2012/08/cazorla-deal-unstoppable-clarity-aw-on-money/
Personally, I am getting seriously bored with this transfer malarkey now. I wish the window would close much earlier, never understood why it closes after the season has started.
Joe, Trev, Faustus, very interesting posts about Arsene. My 2p about the greatestness of him vs Ferguson is that while Alex Ferguson has won more titles it is a bit tricky to compare the two. How would Ferguson have fared with the resources Arsene has had and vice versa? Let’s not forget that ManU were after all, from the early nineties and on until a few years ago, the Man City/Chelsea of the time in terms of greater financial strength and the titles ManU have won in recent years were won mainly with players signed before Man City entered the stage. Ferguson is in for a real challenge now when players like Giggs, Scholes, Ferdinand and Evra (and possibly Vidic, it remains to be seen if he can reach the same heights again after his knee injury) etc are tailing off.
Well, got some brekkie to eat and some lazying about to do so better get started!
Right, it’s the beginning of August, 2 weeks + a bit before the new season starts, the month of my birthday and anniversary…
…and nothing has happened on the RVP front, literally nothing. Is it just me or is it almost impossible to find any actual articles about it? For a player of his calibre I’d expect the hacks to be churning out stories almost daily:
“Deal on the verge of completion”
“VP agrees terms”
“X club’s interest cools on VP”
“VP says Arsenal will always be in his heart” (yeh right, just next to his newly-bulging wallet)
etc…
I had high hopes for this transfer but it seems to be turning into Cesc 2.0, not encouraging.
If the holics could have a whip-round for the fuel, I’ll drive him up to Middle OilLands myself, who’s in?
Morning All
Ollie @ #238 – Thanks! That definitley was a cheering article. Football365 talking positively about an Arsenal squad bursting with attacking talent – whatever next? An article decrying the profligate policies of the pertro-fuelled clubs? A paragraph or two that says Bale isn’t actually the greatest player in Britain?
Lars @ #239 – Well said, I’m also extremely bored over this “c-word” deal now and I also find it impossible to believe that the futures of both The-o and RVWho? aren’t pretty much decided already. I guess that’s why it’s important to chill about the whole thing becuase whatever happens there’ll be 11 players pulling on the famous red & white come Aug 18th. Having stared at Snir’s fine crystal balls long enough for their powers to infuse in me, I predict that The-o will be in that squad but without having signed a new deal. I think my earlier set of predictions re: RVWho & M’Vila are still just about holding water are they not?
Have a great day folks!
No need Camberwell. He has a gold plated Rolls and a chauffeur on Β£100K a year to do that for him.
Thanks for all the kind words, ‘holic and ‘holics. Was just s’posed to be a few lines to augment what TS (amongst others) already had said but it did kind of drag on, quite like any old transfer saga. As you all know, I can be quite slow at getting to the punchline. Glad you enjoyed it.
So on that note, a few “short” words about Wenger as a manager. I don’t believe he is the greatest manager ever. There isn’t a single winning strategy to every game of chess, and there isn’t a single great manager that will work out for every club at every time in history.
Wenger, however, was the perfect manager for us at that time, and as far as I can see the time is still “that time”. He suits us, and we suit him. We have faults, so does he. But we’ve grown together, us and him, and like in any old relationship when the honeymoon is over you can see the faults of the other person. He knows us to be impatient, demanding and at times irrational. We know him as being idealistic as far as it at times becomes detrimental to the clubs success.
But I believe that we keep him on his toes and that he feeds of us wanting success. In that way we give him the fuel for his fire. And he keeps us in check, makes sure we don’t get what we ask for all the time and he does sacrifice a bit of that short term success for a long term stability. He is our conscience when we as fans look for a quick fix, or an unethical fix. That is our role. We should be demanding and passionate. His role is to not fall for all of that. If I’d get to sign players and set the wages for Arsenal players we would be insolvent in four months.
I am sure that he could have won us more had he not been so keen on building a club for the future, instead of grabbing a few medals before moving on to Real Madrid. He is not the greatest manager ever, perhaps not even the greatest manager we’ve had. But he is a great man and his decisions, if at times costly, are the decisions that are the hardest to make.
That he is prepared to let the whole world talk about him being soft, when he has the authority and intelligence to be anything but soft and forgiving is worth praise in itself. I believe he would have made a great Bond villain had he chosen that path in life but he didn’t. I don’t want to press him into that mould, especially not as the manager of our club. He’s the good cop. We’ll just have to live with that. Perhaps it would be nice to have a bad cop as well, we’ve talked about that before especially when it comes to the number two position in the club. I don’t know if Pat was a bad cop. I don’t know if Bould is a bad cop. I don’t know if Dein was a bad cop either. Perhaps we have a bad cop in the club now. Perhaps we don’t.
But in the end, if we just have one cop, I’d rather it be a good than a bad.
Or to sum it up:
I may not know anything about football, but I know what I LIKE!
Again very well said Toby π
And I see like me and FunGunner that you read Sian over @ ibelieveinarsenal, getting a little contingent of holics over there π
Zico
How come you and Roxette arenΒ΄t in the Olympics? From what youΒ΄ve told us, you are world class at rowing. π
SeΓ±ora and I were denied by the whole pesky multi nationality thing.
NB. Plagarised shamelessly from Twitter
We ARE in the lympix Dr C – just individual events.
Feelgood is err, fencing and Rox is plain sailing π
Hoofs it up the pitch in expectation of an impending quarter millenium …
Quote Of The Day
“I’m not having it. He looks like a f**king balloon with a f**king Weetabix crushed on top. He’s better off as a skinhead, isn’t he?” – We’re not usually big fans of Liam Gallagher, but this appraisal of Wayne Rooney’s ‘look’ is very strong.
heh
How come the always-badly-injured Spudmonkey keeps playing in their friendly games?
Goes for gold and the righlty little-regarded quarter millennium
Sometimes, bothering just doesn’t seem worthwhile.
*Looks desperately for cheering crowds to acknowledge*
Thanks, 8ball
“Yay! Oxon”
Enough? π
Woo hoo Oxon! I’ll crush a grape and jump off a dolls house in honour of your Olympian strike π
Funnily enough, those are two sports that Edwin is waiting to be granted Olympic status before showing the world what a true sprotsman he is.
Toby, who would you put ahead of Arsene in the greatest Arsenal manager list?
He isn’t young Ox
But he’s deadly in the box
His aim never off
my hat i doff
No – he’s always turned on
take a bow son
for Ox-on
Never has a ‘250’ been celebrated so roundly in the bar.
Even Cazorla is flying over (allegedly) to congratulate Oxon before he stops off at LC to meet some medical types.
Oxon my good man. Well and coolly taken @250. π
Ollie: Excellent quote @248. Is this what he is talking about (see picture from June) or something more recent?
http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/horror_hair/128007/horror-hair-wayne-rooney-unveils-daring-new-do-at-england-training-photos.html
Odd that Tabs wasn’t lurking for 251 …
Nobody. Because he is my kind of manager. But there just is no point comparing, just as there isn’t any point in comparing footballers through the ages. You just find someone who resonates with you and stick with them until somebody else does it better. Wenger is my choice there because of the sum of all he is, including his visions that extend far outside of passing triangles and into the realm of steering an entire club, from top to bottom into a new direction and into the future without ever taking all the credit he deserves, being a bigmouth, and always being ready to accept the blame, sometimes for what he has done but also for what other people did.
He is, for me, the greatest manager especially since he has done all that in the modern age. I mean, you though the age of discovery was through, and that all the white spots filled in on the maps, but he somehow found a way to almost emulate the big company bosses of old and make such a huge change to a club, and even if he didn’t do it all by himself it was in his vision.
All this he has done in a time when it is more important than ever being able to talk with, understand and cooperate with football agents, government officials, town planners, policy makers, players parents, bankers, jurists, players, economists, marking people, spin doctors, future technology guys, TV companies, celebrates, people that are really good at making grass grow, doctors, physios, egos, interviewers, journalist and of course players than ever before. And all of this over country borders and cross cultures.
Running a football club has never been more complicated than in this day and age and it is in this day and age he has been up to the task in all of these fields and excelled at most of them.
For me, those bits are important and add up, alongside of his ethics, to make him the best manager ever. Someone else might just consider the guy with the best training regimes the best manager ever. Or the one who does the best speeches. Or the one who has one the most trophies, regardless of league and competition he/she has been in or faced. For me, it’s the sum of all that and a bit more, and Wenger fits that profile.
So when I say he might not be the greatest manager ever I do that because it’s a question I don’t know the answer to.
But if you ask me, would I consider him the greatest manager ever? Without a doubt. But do I know my knowledge on the subject is limited. Absolutely. Do I understand that he isn’t the answer to every clubs question? Definitely. But he is my answer to a very, very, subjective question.
I can confirm that Mr T and I do have a “SeΓ±or Santi” booked in for a going over this afternoon. Fingers crossed we don’t break him eh?
Sorry for the typos. A combination of autocorrect and laziness.
Got it Toby. It was a simple question that didn’t deserve your comprehensive answer but thanks anyway! π
Heh, procrastinating here. No worries. I love writing myself a little essay instead of doing real work.
A ha! Mr. Dr. C Sir has responded to the “c word” rumours in the manner in which I had hoped. Splendid! π
MrC,
please don’t let Wolfie anywhere near Santi Cazorla, our new potential signing when he comes in this afternoon for his er, comprehensive medical.
This is most important as I have just discovered that Caz’s anti oral !
and you know Wolfie just can’t resist.
iMr. T
Apparently, he’s a bit of a bad boy too…
Or lacz a saint?
*Embarrassedly and belatedly acknowledges screaming fans*
Too true TS,
And gawd knows what will happen when he’s defending in our box ‘cos it appears he’s A Zonal Racist π
i wonder if the wantaway is watching, and if this will affect his decision:
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1127434/juventus-coach-antonio-conte-faces-fixing-investigators?cc=5901
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1128861/juventus%27-antonio-conte-match-fixing-plea-bargain-rejected?cc=5901
ha! from arsene to this? dirty.
too big to fail? maybe manu will take their lead, sadly, from aig.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1128901/manchester-united-shareprice-%27overvalued%27—expert?cc=5901
Indeed scruz,
as the old song says,
“you don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone”.
TS,
he could be really good in the Champions League apparantly,
CL Arizona Star – but does that mean he’s really good, or a cowboy ? π
Heh! @ Trev’s “A Zonal Racist”
and, since it’s always in threes:
http://espn.go.com/sports/soccer/story/_/id/8221485/gabriele-marcotti-assessing-robin-van-persie-next-move
not bad, puts the entire silence thing in a different light.
morning, gents and jillies…coffee on the bar, irish at your discretion.
iT, you’ve got…
But not very environmentally friendly, it seems –
Caz’r aint solar.
*i’ll get me coat* π
Good links scruz –
Arsenal’s rise to the top begins as their competitors either have squads paralysed by gross over-spending, or go bust under the weight of over-borrowing.
COYR π
cheers, iT. not to mention when clubs’ cheating is exposed and their manager suspended and fined. juventus is currently a sick old lady (down, wolfie!).
Just looked at the new pictures from the training ground. Why, I do not know.
But well, the picture of Arshavin smiling… I don’t know, I just can’t help to feel a bit warm and fuzzy. In some way I’ll miss him when he finally leaves, the lazy little owl.
Toby maybe if the club had set him up in a pad at Highbury Barn, he would have settled down here better π
pardon the expression…
http://www.express.co.uk/football/view/336819
who’s this guy song who “has failed to make an impact at the emirates”?
Al Pacino. Best. Manager. Ever.
Cold Fact.
BMBD
Scruz – why would you ever read such a thing?
BMBD
curious about the link to see who the second was. just amazed at the quality of the writing, lonestar.
btw, hope the missus is feeling ok these days…congrats again!
Apparently the cunt told a Dubai Sports presenter he’s staying the PL next season.
If he stays, hmmm, he’ll be like Ade in his last season for me.
If he signs with another club, I prefer it to be UTD. They’re a weaker team, and while our image would be tarnished, it wouldn’t be AS tarnished as it would be if we sell a FIFTH player to City in four years.
And TS – I wouldn’t be surprised if TW signs. Just a hunch though.
@ Uplympian: Bo Boom .. π
OK I will now stake my considerable reputation on the prediction that RvP will not be moving to another club this summer .. sorry that’s how I “sees” it, and that’s how I says it ..
… plus it would be worth it to see Snir choke on all his pent up bile π
Cazorla signing to be announced officially tomorrow.
Apparently we got him for 15m Euros. A bargain. 11.8m pounds for that type of player is ridiculous, especially since Malaga paid 19m Euros for hims last season, and it’s not like he was a failure there that they’re cutting their losses.
Their situation is truly alarming for them to accept such an offer for Cazorla.
Our (former) captain.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VALGPR-7r4&feature=player_embedded
… and following that great piece of news from Snir, if RvP don’t decide to stay now (even after we’ve proven our ambition with this signing) then he’s a dirty rotten Dutch (expletive deleted) ….
π―
http://youtu.be/2itGDdavmsA
This is how to do it Arsene ..:)
Good link @275 Scruz.
Will RVP be the latest to discover that the grass isnΒ΄t always greener elsewhere? Or will he even get the chance to find out??
Snir, whoΒ΄s this TW guy youΒ΄re talking about??
snir, that is CLASSIC. thank you.
and the video is pretty good, too π
288 thanks GT – it takes an Islington boy to get that one.
Great news SNIR re Santiago Cazorla…..after a few years in the transfer wilderness, Arsene appears to have got his act together big time. Our squad depth getting more impressive as the weeks go by. If the coaches can get the “team defensive ethic” into gear, then we will be very very close.
COYRRR
oooh, gt, another downfall version? damn, it won’t let me view it due to copyright issues.
cheers, cg. it’s the first real assessment of his choices i’ve seen that’s not “Β£220k/wk, what’s not to move for?”.
Goal time….blasts ball down t’other end of pitch after recent adrenalin rush….
wondering if toby is going to pitch 300 with another classic video…
On another note, how heartening to see young Jenkinson looking favourite to become the latest boo boy for the BBBΒ΄s.
FFS, what is wrong with our fans??
Oh.
bbb’s?
well in, cg. tabs’ usual?
Trips over boot laces as he attempts to reach the cross which bamboozles the defence….
not even close. sazerac’s on the bar for all and sundry. made with the finest green faerie…
Well in CG, takes tabs spot following up.
Thank you. Must admit it bounced off my arse “a la Gallas”, but purely intentional, clearly.
BBBΒ΄s = Boo and Bleat Brigade (copyright BtM)
Well in Dr C. Evening all. Anything happened today?
excellent, thanks cg. i’d seen it, but forgotten the words.
why jenks? where’d you see this?
Is Snir ‘ITK’ or does he read things on twitter now? 290 is quite a bold claim.
Or is he just warming up for the main act, which can only happen on August 31st ;D
ollie, there’s a men’s ollimpic “team GB soccer game” on shortly. enjoy…heh.
Who are they playing, scruz?
ollie, it’s against those stoners from uruguay.
in other news, rumors (or rumours, if you like) are a-swirl that the HT spur through south america is being re-routed through montevideo to keep up the legal supply of pik…
Cheers, Scruz…the management is fine (I’m the one who is sick and tired at the mo), and you continue to impress – Sazerac? Now THAT’s a tasty beverage…:wink:
The BBB need to fall back. Jenks has heart, pace, and a wicked cross. I likes the kid. And I like our summer acquisitions so far. Has any proper opponent been lined up for the next two weeks? It’s absolutely vital we get some quality skirmishes in before the league starts, imho. Cold Fact.
Excellent video, Snir.
I wonder, if the Dutch Bloke realizes the market is drying up…I would advocate holding him to contract and exiling him to the reserves / Bud cup games.
(Edwin OUT)
BMBD
-:wink:
+ π
*bastards*
BMBD
Scruz,
Just reading the comments on twitter over the last few weeks… all seem to single him out. And hold him up as an example of how “weΒ΄re not good enough”.
IΒ΄m with Lonestar… I like Jenks. HeΒ΄s raw, but werenΒ΄t we all once? Just recently we were complaining that the kids didnΒ΄t get a chance to learn in the 1st team!!
Catalan: I thought it stood for: Bloody Brainless Bastards π
Ah, I see why Suarez made the news today then.
lol, lonestar. so long as you don’t go into sympathetic morning sickness or contractions (when the bell rings)…
sazerac made with, in particular, templeton rye and century absinthe. many of them.
i like jenks too, and not just because his hairstyle led the pack of nutcases who wanted to have a fauxhawk. while he was demonstrably out of position for both goals in the city runout the other week, his recovery graft was nice to see. add the crosses, and that he can continue to improve his positioning, and sagna has his backup nearly ready-made. the next pat rice? maybe.
ollie, he must add crack to his. just sayin’.
Damn it! I knew it would end like this. I’m away for a few bloody minutes and I miss out on getting the goal of my dreams…
300…
…MILLILITRES OF SAZERAC. Especially if I get some proper greenstuff. Most of the time it’s with that Herbsaint. And even if it’s not that shabby I like the proper thing.
Oh, would have liked to get the goal as well. Had a real nice classic lined up but I guess that will have to wait.
Oh and Snir, I’d love to believe you mate. Actually I DO believe you mate. Or rather, I know you’re not here to pull anyones leg. Just hoping it will pan out that way because that sounds like the deal of the year if the bits fall into place nicely. Keep the information coming! It doesn’t matter if it all ends up as you say, just say the things you really believe in and I’m happy enough with that. Getting your summaries really beats reading around the wilderness that is the Internet.
Toby: Take it from me – as a scorer of many, many, many goals – its just not worth it to sit around all day waiting to score … it only makes people jealous and they resort to devious means to cut you down to their level … better to carry on as our Bard and enjoy the platitudes of the many than the fake congratulations of the few …
π―
toby, let’s split what’s left of the bottle. hmmm, two dozen sacerac washes, that takes a couple shots, leaving 4/5 for us. anyone else want to make a louche? barkeep, some sugar lumps and perforated spoons, and a jug of water, if you please. oh, and some highball glasses…
Cheers for the tip Terry. I’ve had my patches over the past few years when I’ve scored loads of them, which usually ends up with me looking for the chances which ends up with me thinking too much of myself which leads to me trying more and more elaborate goal celebrations and with me looking for 220 000 pounds a week. It usually ends up in tears since no one is really paying blog commenters that kind of money, at least not north of Fulham yet south of Manchester.
Put it like this – I’m consistent in patches.
Thanks for firmly planting my feet on the ground again!
Scruz, a Sazerac for GT! Or mayhap a GT for GT, whatever his poison is! And, put it on Lars, will you?
Stop it Scruz, really thirsty now. I am allowed to have a real one, right? After all, it’s vacation and Ramsey’s playing?
Be back in a few…
Did I miss something by turning down my sports scholarship to the States? We learned nothing like that at college in Britain Scruz..
π
Glad I was able to help Toby π
mmmm, toby, for gt and ollie and anyone else who’d like to savoir the fee vert.
gt, it’s all about this, and this is all you need to become a pro…it’s practice, practice, practice π http://www.feeverte.net/
toby, drink up! i am going for pints after work, but might just stop at the local liquor shop on the way home for another shiny bottle of the green stuff…mmmmmm.
heh, heh π
nico has signed a contract extension, and afobe is going to be tutled by le coyle at notlob this season.
I’m with Catalan re Jenks. You cannot fault him for effort and considering he was playing non-league football around 18 months ago he has done extremely well.
No doubt the intention was to educate him considerably more before he was thrown into first team action. But Bac’s injuries, fairly rare in themselves, meant that was not possible.
He still has to learn positionally, but he also needs cover when he is expected to join in with the attacking side of the game, which he does very well.
We positive supporters must realise for our part, that with the limited resources he has had up to now, Arsene Wenger has obviously gone out to sign duds just to wind us all up !
As Catalan said – FFS ! Personally, I have never got involved with Twitter, at all, firstly ‘cos I don’t have time, and second.y ‘cos it seems like blogging with less time to think, and not enough characters to explain anything.
That may be unfair – it’s just an impression, but if it’s the sort of thing people are using to slag off people like Jenks, I think I’ll pass.
Thanks for the absinthe, scruz π
I’m with Catalan and techhy Trev (check him with his eyeTrev) –
Jenks may be young/raw etc but he has the heart the size of a house.
Catalan, ignore the twats on twatter – they’re the same pondlife that frequent Le Groan.
Evening chums.
I appear to be the proud owner of a mountain lion, albeit after three hard nights of work to set it all up, download, and install.
Normal service will resume tomorrow night, and if Snir is right then I will have a nice big juicy transfer to talk about, won’t I?
…I know π
How much does it cost to feed your new moggy then Guvnor? 8)
cheers, ollie, hopefully that’ll be what you need to watch the second half.
We’ll find out soon enough when we pick up the tabby.
(Paws for effect)
One thing is for sure. I am feline much better than last night. If I said anything else I’d be lion…
well in, ‘holic. that’s a lot of investment, though. i’m torn between avoidance and engagement.
Oh dear,
Trev has taken over Holic’s body.
God help the world.
lol@338. what a tale.
‘Holic, I’m proud ! π
Must be the sort of pride you get with mountain lions.
Didn’t they tell you it was going to c’ocelot when you ordered it?
I’m sure I have enough in the kitty…
That’s the mane thing …..
For anyone who’s not watching the GB – Uruguay game, Ramsey’s playing as the team’s lynxpin, pivotal play from our welshman π
Oh God,
trev is Holic and Holic is trev
it’s like a bad “B” movie.
We’ll see whose who when it comes to Guinnessfest on the 18th π
*who’s who*
Sorry Ollie π
zico, but at least tell me Andy Goram hasn’t become Andy Goram and vice versa?
To continue the previous discussion about Arsene — some great posts by Trev, Lars, Toby, Joe, GT, and others — I think it is entirely possible that Arsene’s longest lasting legacy in football would be that of a pioneer, an unfashionable against-the-current visionary to have profoundly impacted in future how football is played, players are nurtured, the business is conducted and maybe most importantly how football stays rooted to the wider world.
He is definitely not the most successful of contemporary top-level managers by concrete tangible vectors, and as some of you so astutely observed that even in those areas he is concerned a master his record does present interesting contradictions.
But when I say he is the finest modern manager, I mean the impact of his ideas and thoughts, and their implementations — with varying degrees of success, one must say — in Arsenal and how those already influence and would influence the game in coming years.
Especially when football — especially the top-level European football — comes out of this fantasy world of financial imprudence.
A small-to-middle club, or even an aspiring football nation, can actually look at the overall philosophy and principles of how Arsene manages Arsenal and find both inspiration and concrete ideas to implement. There can be an ‘Arsenal Model’ to be followed by them…I don’t think the same can be said of him more trophy-rich contemporaries.
heh Lars
How many weeks left now of your 16 week summer break…..?
zico@350, only 18 weeks π
Nah, I have next week off as well and then it’s back to work. And after that week, the Premier League starts again – it’s getting closer!
In other news, a very yoot-ful Arsenal XI inc. Miquel, Yennaris, Aneke, Eisfeld, Gnabry went down 2-1 to Dartford.
BOOOOO! WANGER/GONE4ABURTON AAAAHT!
@352 –
Meh! Another fan with tunnel vision. π
What, we never won a meaningless friendly against Dartford with a really young and inexperienced side?
Aw man, Wagner and Tim Burton have lost the plot.
Boo. Bleat. Brigade.
Just made another B line…..
@353
I prefer to view it as a building bridges to better results.
As it was Dartford, we should lock ’em all up and throw away the key.
Dock them 3 points, I say.
I see tunnel vision is being applied π
Folks. There are more laughs in #338 than you can shake a stick at, or that my cat can pounce on. π
The bloody body snatchers are at it again with Trev and Holic.
When will you fools listen to me??! π
The Central Line. Yep that’s it! This thread reminds me of being stoned on the Central Line when the West End theatres let out of an evening.
You hear lines like:
“..contemporary top-level managers by concrete tangible vectors…”
as you sit there among the heavily made-up punters with pearls & shiny trinkets, Tuxedoes and patent leader shoes and you think to yourself … ??? .. well actually you don’t have a thought but you just start giggling uncontrollably really …
π―
itrev missed yr tunnel vision comment @ 353…will pay you a licence fee to cover my duplication comment…..drink of yr choice on the bar.
No more tunnel puns from me tonight – don’t want to be a bore ….
No, I’ll have Mersey on you and channel my efforts elsewhere.
Hard to believe we’re into August, down here in the West Country it’s so Colditz more like April.
Have we signed that Barcelona youngster Alcatraz yet ? ……
No worries Uply. π
@ scruzgooner
“a fauxhawk” Love it!
@ 335Goonerholic
“I appear to be the proud owner of a mountain lion,”
(Sigh.) Send it back. Now. They look cute as cubs, but you’ll regret it when you come into the kitchen one day and it is belching up a child’s shoe.
GT,
Let’s try and simplify this Wenger discussion then. I’ll tell you why I love the guy and don’t buy one atom of this “sells out to the Board” stuff.
Just look at the joy all over his face the night we won the title at Old Trafford.
That is what he is all about.
End of.
@365. π
Can you all imagine a poker game comprised of AW, Fergie, Pep, Maureen and Harry. Puts a smile on my face just thinking about it. Purrfect. Nite all.
Re: GT @361. Quite interesting. I’ll have to try that sometime. Good thing they invented a smiley just for you. π
iTrev: with you all the way bruvver π
I was at Old Trafford that wednesday night Trev.
And your right – he is a remarkable human being. Much too good for football or football players, especially his own ones at times..!
fungunner@365, -:)
It looks like a natural to me. Don’t they say all the Besiktas strikers smoke hookah?
http://news.arseblog.com/2012/07/besiktas-chamakh-is-on-our-shopping-list/
π
Ollie – I never said I was ITK simply because I don’t have “inside” info. The only inside info I have is on Maccabi and I doubt it would interest you π I’m still confused by your claim that “290 is quite a bold claim.”
What claim? That he’ll be announced tomorrow? Every journo in Malaga is saying so, and whole I’m skeptical of the British press, I have no prejudice towards the Malaga press as I haven’t been “burnt” by false info of theirs yet.
Toby – As I can’t work out here (F-1 visa restrictions) and my car is giving me problems, I spend my day at home, mostly on twitter, on the laptop and/or on the iPhone. Believe me when I say I filter a whole lot of info before I wrote in the bar π
Holic – According to The Times, Cazorla AND Sahin will be announced in the next 48 hours. So you might wanna get ready π
*write it in the bar.
Sorry Ollie, it’s the IPhone’s fault with its autocorrect!! π
Another reason why it pays to stick out a marriage. After 23 years she decides she likes to eat squash after all. Will the excitement never stop??
8thBall: I think that it takes around 15-years for a woman to ‘reveal’ herself. Problem is most men give up on them too soon (with good reason sometimes) but after 17-years I can tell you that I am still finding things to love about Mrs GT ….
π
Drinks to Mrs. GT, one and all. π
You two cats are purrrfectly smitten with your felines…such feelings π
When’s CoR due back in Nipon?
BMBD
Dr F@349: AW is the Martin Peters of management. Ten years ahead of his time.
So, this one goes out to all Los Boquerones out there – take it away ‘Spoon!
http://youtu.be/S0hMZb4gIqc
This feels like the longest off-season ever, not sure why.
For fucks sake. We are actually doing it.
Google translate gives me this from an article at
http://malagacf.diariosur.es/noticias/2012-08-02/cazorla-entrena-malaga-201208021130.html
“Malaga has trained this morning in the Rose Garden with the absence of international Cazorla, who last their march the team. According to club sources had permission to be absent from the session, presumably to close the finishing touches to his move to Arsenal. Everything suggests that yesterday was his last training Asturian Malaga player.”
The article goes on to talk about how Pellegrini looked as he watched the players in session, so at least it gives the appearance of the writer actually being there.
Pictures on Twitter going round now showing Cazorla at Barcelona airport, if those are genuine then it is actually starting to look like we might actually be signing him.
Crap, never chop and change what you have written – it should have been “then together with what Toby posted above it is actually starting…”.
Heh, think it’s time for the Londoners to check the flight status of all planes from Malaga to London and grab a camera and go. Looks like all the flights are to Gatwick, so hop on the express somebody!
LARS – Like A Real Signing. π
I’m sure somebody must already have done that, so apologies to you ? π
Holic,
Get ready to report on this big one !
Hope you’re up to scratch with that mountain lion. π
Trev, I don’t think Like A Real Signing has been done before π
Hey Lars,
Hope Robin finds a club with a direction he appreciates.
Hope he, and the other Dein slaves, sack the greedy bastard and start to realise where they are well off.
If, say, Thierry came back permanently, would that be, Like, A Re-Signing?
Disclaimer: This is idle speculation only. It is not a rumour.
We would like to make it clear that if Bevan signs (sadly it’s now if, rather than when) it would certainly not be Like a Rubbish signing.
Who’s Bevan?
Malaga’s website
http://www.malagacf.com/en/new/last-training-session-of-the-week-at-rosaleda/64652
Underneath the photo of training, the caption says Santi Cazorla was the only player absent, with the permission of the club.
I love waking up and seeing the same websites churning out literally the same story day after day in a bid to maximise revenue.
Gotta hand it to that clown at Le Moan. Some sense of irony he has. You couldn’t make it up.
Ooh. Legs it up the right channel on a mazy dribble with the ball glued to her feet (literally, her control isn’t too good).
I detect a transfer window mania developing here of Snir-like proportions.
Remember, there is only so much medication the Feelgood Foundation can provide – supply and demand is bound to have a corresponding effect on price, particulary for such high-end products. 8)
lurking stab
nicks it away from onrushing defender…
Oxon. Please clarify the differences between idle speculation and rumour.
A philosophical goal, I see, bt8b. Well done.
@ bt8bbgfg
Nonchalant backheel into the corner. Lovely.
FunGunner. Sometimes out of control works out just fine. π
I’m saying you meant it – that’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
8ball,
a) Well in.
b) Idle speculation has, explicitly, no basis in fact.
Dr Feelgood.
Thank you for your warning. It is plane to see that our excitement did runway with us for a while. We didn’t have our seat-belts fastened. In the future I will make sure not to let rumours (or for that matter idle speculation) take off in such a manner. And even if the transfer is completed who knows, it might not work out and he might go the way of JET (even if I have a hard time seeing Cazorla playing for Ipswich). Now that we’ve all landed again after our little charter I would be very happy if you could unstove your tray table and bring us a little… er… trip.
Best regards
Toby
FG. Surely I meant it. Being out of control is another issue entirely. π
Bt8b@400: that there are any is only hearsay.
And well in. The deftest of touches.
Oxon. Is that any different from idol worship then? π
bt8b @ 409
That pun won’t be beaten today. Well in.
8ball @ 409
Lord knows
Toby @410
Laying down the gauntlet for iTrev can be a dangerous thing where punning is concerned. π
But thanks for the plaudits and thanks FG for the cool assist at the century. π
Toby
You need the help of a Professional.
Fecked if I know where you’d find one around here…..
Toby @406. Good stuff. π
Copy of Santi Cazorla’s boarding pass, perchance? If not, this will have to do but I must warn you it is idle speculation, and I am risking being told I need the help of a professional. π
Thu Aug/2/2012 – Departure Nonstop Total travel time : 2h 20m
Barcelona
BCN 4:05pm
Terminal 1
London
LHR 5:25pm
Terminal 5
2h 20m
713 mi
Iberia 7458 Operated by BRITISH AIRWAYS P.L.C.
Economy/Coach (B)
Airbus A321
Fri Aug/3/2012 – Return Nonstop Total travel time : 2h 0m
London
LHR 6:30pm
Terminal 5
Barcelona
BCN 9:30pm
Terminal 1
2h 0m
713 mi
British Airways 482
Economy/Coach (B) Seat Preview
Airbus A320
Trev@390: I think we should start having clauses in all the players’ contracts that said player is not allowed to ever have any sort of relation, professional or otherwise, with Darren Dein. If they are ever seen so much as talking to him, that’s a Β£10m fine immediately.
Ok, that would probably be neither possible nor legal, but still…
So if we sign Nuri Sahin, that would be Like A Real (Madrid) Signing?
Am I the only one who seems to remember that Wenger tried to buy Sahin years ago when he was still 17 or so? The fact that Madrid can’t bear to lose him speaks volumes.
It is OFFICIAL !!!
I think you could be on to something there @ 415
I would also add that in addition to a hefty fine, that any miscreant is also imprisoned in solitary confinement in a 4 x 6 foot cell for 7 days, with a piped recording of Wolfgang Smallballs singing Kumbaya played continuously on a loop.
That’ll learn ’em.
… I am back from holidays.
Heh, well done Olivia. You almost had me going over to check pravda.
Alright. Who am I trying to kid. I did.
Welcome back!
Took my dog for a walk to calm down a bit after my series of morning coffees and Santi Cazorla transfer speculation had gotten me “out of control” a bit. During the walk I resolved, yet again, not to engage in further transfer speculation and to “lay my burden down” as it were. A Youtube search for an appropriate song has yielded this calming ditty:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3fFbg-VxVk&playnext=1&list=PL1199A82802399B61&feature=results_main
Of course by following the links you can get to this one which I like even better. π
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgqsP9BICNE&feature=related
Thanks, Toby. Good to be back. I am hoping for some the good news on pravda later, too.
Song’s departure, should it happen, will be a blow. He and Arteta are together more than the sum of their parts. I know we have the FrimCoq coming through, and both youngsters will benefit from playing alongside Arteta, but it means another season bedding in a DM partnership rather than the one we have kicking on. Song is a textbok example of AW’s genius, under-appreciated raw material patiently moulded into the world-class player he, if not the rest of us at first, could always see was potentially there. It will be a shame if Song joins the ranks of those the Boss has nurtured spending their best seasons elsewhere.
They are starting to do it again, and Lonestar isn’t the only one who is not going to like it. π
http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/163281.html?CMP=OTC-RSS
BMBATVLEATPTITM (Barcelona must be at the very least emasculated and their parts thrown into the Mediterranean)
Sorry if I went overboard there for anyone. π
Congratulations, GB, on your Gold medals yesterday. Fine performances all!
NBN, with all respect, please resist the manufactured urge to start commenting on Farca’s supposed “interest” in Song. FFS, he has 2 years left on his contract.
If we keep this up, before long, we will have to start extending contracts the year after we make them to avoid letting the player remain unsigned with 3 years left on his contract.
I can see the copy now… “PSG is linked with RB Nico Yennaris who only has three years left on his contract at Arsenal…” Puhhhlease…
What ever happened to contract (and business) fundamentals? Player X agrees to provide footballing services to Football Club Y for Z years in exchange for compensation in an amount equal to $M.
The Club pays the fee and salary. The player plays. The Club doesn’t worry about selling the player in (assuming a 4 year contract) year 3 of a 4 year contract to recover it’s investment because (look closely) IT’S NOT AN INVESTMENT. It’s a sunk cost. Business 101. Play the player for 4 years; if he resigns with current Club, great. If not, then the Club received the benefit of its original contractual bargain…and so did the player.
This kind of back-to-the-basics outlook would reduce a lot of the power of agents and the media. Cold Fact.
Thoughts?
BMBD
Damn right, 8ball. I don’t like it one.
But we allow them to do this to us…that’s why it infuriates me even more.
BMBATVLEATPTITM…
Hi all
Personally I donΒ΄t think Song is going to go.. but who knows. Next summer, maybe. He has 2 years left on his contract, so Arsenal hold the aces at the moment.
I was reassured about this by a bloke who is normally spot on woth things, and who seems to know Song personally. I know, I know…
Just remember, Barça talk an awful lot, about an awful lot of other players. Javi Martinez and Neymar have apparently signed for them 5 times each so far.
My thoughts (which are worth nothing, but allow me if you would) to explain ArseneΒ΄s directness in the market this year…
1. Maybe the Grove factor is finally kicking in
2. He realises that it is truly needed, and this time he has had time to make his plans rather than trying to hang on to ingrates.
3. All the signings seem to be about the 26/27 mark. Including LANS Kos.
I donΒ΄t think that after this summer we should expect more big splurges – we will now have a good squad who are not aging for another four years. Perhaps one or two signings to cover outgoing players (of our choosing) every summer.
Finally we have a very high quality SQUAD rather than first XI, and this is what wins trophies when the injuries hit in Feb / March.
And just this final point; Poldi + Giroud + Cazorla = Carroll.
Apologies if I have gone over what others have already written. No time to back drink.
# DonΒ΄t Worry. ArseneΒ΄s Got This.
Drinks??
Volleyball, anyone? Not sure if this fellow is completely serious though.
http://www.espn.co.uk/london-olympics-2012/sport/story/163285.html
NBN@ 424: I don’t think Arsenal would agree to sell Song this season, even if this apparent interest from Barca turns real. No matter how much Song’s agent, or Song himself, may want a move there are still two years left in his contract and Arsenal has no reason to sell him this season.
I am sure that Song himself knows that no matter how much of an improved player he has become — a key one for Arsenal, and I fully agree with your assessment of him being a ‘textbook example of Arsene’s genius’ — he still has many gaps and inconsistencies in his game that would come under more severe criticism elsewhere. In other words, he has rooms to grow.
And Barca is already teeming with midfielders. There is a whole new crop trying to break in .
Finally, my six month old son has received his first Arsenal shirt — the entire home kit for this season — with Song 17 on the back. Apparently only names with for letters or less can be fit on the back of 6-9 months shirts and I chose Song over Ryo. So Arsenal and Song cannot surely afford to lose a fan before he becomes one. π
I’ll have a vodka tonic like me mod-mate Wiggo. Keep the torch burning!
I meant (@ 430) names with ‘four’ letters or less … if it wasn’t clear π
I agree with everything Dr Faustus says at 430 with the exception of putting a player’s name on your kid’s shirt.
If you want to give the club extra money, then put Bergkamp, Henry or Hawley on the back of the strip rather than the names of these 18-month moonlighters π
Once the child has grown sufficiently to warrant the extra letters…..
If you can’t choose between any of the great Arsenal legends, then can I suggest plain “Feelgood”?
Dr. Fa @430: Song is certainly a good choice, but was OX not also an option? Here’s hoping Dr. Fa Jr.’s shirt is still au courant upon his third birthday, not to mention his second. First? π
I’ll re-post this…
What ever happened to contract (and business) fundamentals? Player X agrees to provide footballing services to Football Club Y for Z years in exchange for compensation in an amount equal to $M.
The Club pays the fee and salary. The player plays. The Club doesnβt worry about selling the player in (assuming a 4 year contract) year 3 of a 4 year contract to recover itβs investment because (look closely) ITβS NOT AN INVESTMENT. Itβs a sunk cost. Business 101. Play the player for 4 years; if he resigns with current Club, great. If not, then the Club received the benefit of its original contractual bargainβ¦and so did the player.
This kind of back-to-the-basics outlook would reduce a lot of the power of agents and the media – and nervous supporter handwringing. Cold Fact.
BMBD
Catalan @ 428,
Agree with your assessment of the situation at our Club. I would add that with the shirt sponsor and kit maker deal to end it 2014, this would be the ideal time to add well-established names (like Poldi & Cazorla) to give us the upper hand in discussing bigger deals and when we win the PL & CL in May 2013, we can be even stronger in those discussions during the 2013-14 before the deals are announced (I don’t think we’ll be announcing a future deal like Utd have done)
Zico @ 433,
Agree with the name on the back of the strip..
Afternoon all.
Well said Dr.C @ #428
I going to keep my powder dry re: the other ‘Mr.C’ until I see an official announcement as I believe anything could happen and it’s never over until both parties sign on the line that is dotted. Even if he’s in London and meeting with Arsenal, how do we know that he (or his agent) haven’t lined up meetings with Chel$ki or LWC representatives too? NOBODY does apart from the player, his representatives and those they are meeting.
If it’s true, then we are really building a squad of deep quality and would, IMO, be only a decent/nasty defensive signing and a proper backup for Szcz (sorry Fab & Vito) from having a squad that could challenge for EVERYTHING.
I’m sitting quietly and confidently awaiting further good news.
PS: I think Song could well move next summer and I’d be surprised if it happened in this transfer window but that’s only a personal opinion.
PPS: Theo may well be convinced to stay but my sense is that he’s no more loyal than Song, with or without Darren Dein.
PPPS: Is RVWho starting to look a little superfluous or is it just me?
Drinks on the bar for all of you fine fellows, even you Lonestar despite your open hatred for Edwin π
Lonestar – good points re: buisness/contractual fundamentals but at this point in time and without FFP being enforced, football continues to operate in a mode totally out of sync with ‘the real world’.
I genuinely hope we return to times when a a signed contract, agreed by both parties, is more often than not honoured by both parties.
Right now, those are fairly meaningless terms on planet football.
Toby @ #431
Was that an intentional link between Wiggo, mods and The Torch?
If so, nice one.
IG @ 437.
Good point… makes a lot of sense too.
Prof @438
Go on…. let yourself get a little excited! π
*twitter rumour alert*
Have also read that our interest in the Fire Sale at Malaga may not be over just yet….. according to Spanish journalists that were reporting the Cazorla move.
Malaga have announced on their website the sale of Cazorla to Arsenal. It then promptly crashed..!!!
Nothing yet on pravda, but…
Cazorla is an Arsenal player. Medical done.
and to give credit where itΒ΄s due, the Spanish journalist covering the deal just posted this;
Kike Marin** β@Kike_Marin_
Veo que la cifra que el Arsenal va a pagar con Cazorla ya no es 20-22 millones… NegociaciΓ³n maestra de los directivos gunners: 15 millones
Basic translation; weΒ΄re paying 15m β¬, not 20-22m. The Arsenal directors are master negotiators.
Take a bow IG and the others……you get enough shit thrown at you, so now you deserve a little limelight π
WouldnΒ΄t you agree, Robin??
TS, ‘course it was, what would be the point of the post otherwise? π Well, except for me getting an imaginary vodka tonic, which in itself is no bad thing. I’m an old mod, me, and thought the link was too good to pass up. A bit surprised no headline writer has made that pun yet.
And thank you.
Heh, TS…
*I’ll whisper it this time* (Edwin out).
I’ll be fine with his righteousness once the DLL Ltd audited financial statements are released. My true venom is reserved for Farca, that Spanish Bloke, and that Dutch Bloke.
BMBD
TS at 439 –
My point is that clubs allow themselves to be a slave to this mentality. This has nothing to do with financial fair play. What I recommend is a shift in perspective.
If a club signs a player to a four year contract, and said player refuses to re-up in year 3, then play him in year 4 and let him go on his free.
The Club got its 4 years of service. The player got his 4 years of salary. I think too often the Clubs feel that if a player doesn’t resign in the final year of his contract, he must be sold because the Club can’t afford to “lose” money if the player leaves on a Bosman.
That perspective makes no economic sense…and it gives undue influence to agents and teams who practice the dark arts of unsettling players.
The amount of money a Club spends on a player contract is a sunk cost the moment the contract is signed. If you make money on a player who doesn’t want to sign a new contract, then fine. But a business shouldn’t run its operations by trying to recoup sunk costs.
That’s Business 101.
BMBD
Keep the fires burning Toby. Where’s Steve T?
Now this is proper bullshit if I ever heard it:
“Malaga Football Club has begun a process of internal restructuring within the organization to adapt to the standards of financial fair play, in order to ensure self-sufficiency and sustainability of the institution Martiricos.
This process, which does not mean it has rejected any kind of investment by the current owners, will involve some changes to the current Club organizational entity that will strengthen the future.”
Taken from the Malaga CF official webpage.
I say again what I got Jimmy Witherspoon to sing earlier:
Well, money’s gettin’ cheaper, prices gettin’ steeper
Found myself a woman but I just couldn’t keep her
Times gettin’ tougher than tough
Things gettin’ rougher than rough
I make a lot of money, I just keep spendin’ the stuff
PS. Substitute “woman” for “Cazorla” and you’ve got yourself a theme-song. DS.
Lonestar. I see you have reverted to BMBD. I suppose it does have a certain pithy and memorable ring to it. π
As a matter of fact, I think I’d never be able to remember the longer version …
TS. Maybe the likes of Steve T and Clive Waterman have found something better to do. Nah. It couldn’t be. π
On the other hand, PIK with his California waves, women and reefers may indeed have something better to do … just surmising, of course.
Financial Statements?
I will be away on, err, business for a bit…..
Lonestar
I understand all of you points, they’re very well put. I don’t agree with all of them.
Sometimes it makes very good (business) sense to all three parties involved to sell a player on or before the final year of his contract.
And the revenues generated and presumably re-invested in many cases, can go a long way to ensurng that a club is able to comply with FFP.
But that is my perspective. Yours equally valid. There may not be a clear-cut worng or right in this argument.
Could be 8Ball! π
Heh! at the flake that is Feelgood.
Have we signed ‘him’ yet?
Ollie. The deal is complete. Here is a picture of ‘him’ at the signing ceremony:
http://nextours.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/image-axd.jpg
π
God IΒ΄m getting greedy.
Now I want Sahin.
And whatΒ΄s the situation with N’Yang Bang Kipper Bang??
π
IsnΒ΄t a Mountain Lion a Cougar??
In which case no wonder Holic has gone quiet….. much better things to do!
You lot are worse than I am!
heh bt8
8ball, and here is Cazorla in the away shirt:
http://pic.twitter.com/9g7PnqZj
I can’t guarantee it’s not been Photoshopped… π
Heh, I know the feeling Catalan. Too bad I don’t copy-and-paste things without a source, because I think you would like the news Jamie Sanderson of YoungGunsBlog-fame just posted a two minutes ago on twitter.
The away shirt kind of… grows… on you, doesn’t it, Lars?
Wake me up when something happens π
…and this one from OptaJose sounds rather good:
3 β Three players made over 1000 passes in the final third in LigaBBVA 11/12: Messi (1303), Xavi (1101) and Cazorla (1037). Brains
I really want this deal to go through now.
Toby@463: well, it’s grown on him at least!
lars@466, like a fungus, apparently. slow moving, hopefully long lasting.
Toby @462…yeah, I saw it.
Have also seen from a guy who has got most of everything right so far, that we should prepare for life WITH RVP next season.
Dear Robin, if this is the case then I am more than willing to write your grovelling apology (which is an absolute necessity) to AFC, its directors, AW and the fans. At a price (although, of course, its not about the money).
Catalan – said most of what I was thinking @428 and Faustus fi ished it @430.
The Song thing seems a fairly transparent attempt at this stage to squeeze more money out of the club by panicking them into thinking hr might be next on the outbound train.
Well Alex, ditch that parasitic little git now and think about it.
Busquets is welcoming you….. Really ?
You, Biscuits and Mascherano doesn’t go into two, and one of you will find three is a crowd – if you follow my maths !? Never did really get the hang of all that.
Snir, Snir, Snir. – Hats off to you mate. Posted on here last night that the deal was done at β¬15million.
Those balls of yours are working just fine. π
TS – come on, let it go. Have some fun with this “LARS” for these last few hours. You know you want to. π
Champers on the bar for everyone – and a tea for me, please. π
Catalan @468 – agree and heh! π
Somebody wake GT up. π
Jamie Sanderson of Young Guns Blog – one of the few twitter guys who doesnt mouth off bullshit without doing his research first – confirms that Sahin has rejected Spurs π
Yaay
Mr C –
If we are both here in the bar, who the hell is doing Santi’s medical ?
By the way, has anyone ever failed one – it must be quite difficult. π
By the way Toby, I hear it is written into his contract that Cazorla is to be given every Christmas off.
It is to be included as the “Santi Clause”. π
I know Song is very good and I rate him very highly but I dont know if he is good enough for Barca to be honest. For one, he makes far too many dangerous tackles and in Spain they are generally more strict than in Premiership.
I do hope Song stays though but coz Darren Dein , I can see him leave. If only one of Song , RvP and Theo leave – I’d say its still a great summer for Arsenal. But looks like 2 out of those 3 are on their way out.
@472
Was worth it waiting for the Punchline, it had a certain Ring to it. Doesn’t sound like too big a Knockout-term when it comes to us agreeing. Glovererall, still looks like a good signing. Ali hope is that every year he’ll be back for Boxing Day.
Surely Song having two years left on his contract, that particular saga is for next summer and they’re just planting the seeds at the moment?
On a related note I am very surprised Barca never came in for RvP. They struggled last season when David Villa was out and thought RvP would be the perfect replacement for Villa. (There were talks of Barca moving him on). Even if Villa stays they really dont have any really good back up options for Villa.
Cesc factor etc and their lack of a proper forward would have made RvP an obvious candidate..
I’m not complaining of course – but just my 2 cents.
True thing , Ollie.. Especially with Biscuits saying that Song can fit in at Barca et al.
They probably can’t afford him? Yes, it is a bit confusing, Sajit.
That was about RvP. They can probably afford Song (and maybe they’ll do a DNA test before next summer).
Song will probably change his tune by next summer ……. π
A-Hoy there! Another Gold.
Sing a song of sixpence, Trev?
I’m with Ollie, Song-gate is next summer’s farca. The Club is in too strong a position right now with 2 years left on his contract unless Song gets Dazzer to write a nice public statement on his behalf and physically goes on strike as well. Can’t see it though.
RVWho may just end-up as a LARU like the Manc Roo, only with better hair.
Just saw Stuart Downing falling down in a heap. He cost 20m pounds if I remember correctly. I’m not sure why, with that price tag he is playing a… wait for it… Europa League qualifier. At least Liverpool’s 36m pound striker is not in Belarus.
toby, it’s ’cause downing can hit shots into trashcans.
Catalan@468: I have to say that in the past few days I have started to think that it is not at all impossible that RvP will be with us for at least one more season after all. There genuinely does not seem to be very much interest for him, I think his “advisors” (for I think it is mainly them, sadly he has allowed himself to be misled) seriously overrated his market value. There is no escaping the fact that he is about to turn 29 and that he has an injury history that rivals few (unfortunately, they all seem to be Arsenal players…) players at the top level.
Hopefully such a loss of face, and lack of judgement, may tempt a few of Dazzers Dreamers to find new representatives who are not hell bent on destroying the club.
Will anybody still be cheering Robin Van Pursie if he stays this season though?
I’d be happy with his goals, but I wouldn’t sing any RvP chant again.
http://youtu.be/lidFipyLG8k
Dedicated to Snir … Thanks Trev π
Of course we will cheer for RvP.. As long as he is earning his badge no need not to cheer for him ..
Lets all be grown up here π
If City fans could cheer for Tevez I see no reason why we need to make a big fuss about RvP.
Of course he was led astray by his advisors but everyone gets a second chance.
Well I think Ollie if it turns out that Robin stays with us, it would take public apology and really really good performances for people to start liking him again. I personally got over it and am pretty much “meh” about the whole thing now.
If he goes, he goes, just dont want him to end up in Shitty. Its a shame since I think he was an exceptional captain for us last season, on the other hand..as things are turning out now ..I start to have feeling that he might stay with us, on the other hand some deal might be done already and is only waiting for the announcement by now.
Let me clarify : If RvP does an Adebayor – ie – be a lazy arse on the pitch then its a different story , but if he works for the team.. Why not?
Hey Ollie: I will be chanting his name as usual – but from Kingston, Jamaica it probably doesn’t mater …
On a serious note though: RvP & Le Boss probably orchestrated the whole thing to increase our ‘Brand Name Recognition’ in order to increase much needed non match-day revenue …
* OK I will go quietly – anyone seen me pipe? *
I think he is too professional to do that, and I think that he loves the game too much to do so.
I know what you mean Ollie, I think it would be a subdued atmosphere in the Ems after one of his goals and I wouldn’t sing either unless the goal lead to something substantial in terms of trophies or unless he’s done a full U-Turn and apologised to Wenger in Public (and hopefully with head bowed in private), the Players, the Club and the Fans in Public.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/44342/training-gallery
On the other hand, these pictures genuinely made me smile for some reason earlier today π
Ok, I’ll play the ball out wide.
Calling all lurkers…
BMBD
Too much grey area in the whole affair regarding the capt’n. It depends on numerous things how I will feel about this whole affair and at the moment I don’t know shit, really. I’ll just concentrate on our new toys instead at the moment and take the final decision on RvP after the transfer window is shut and a few games have been played.
Ollie – same here.
But I would still bench him on FIFA!!!
OK so apparently the transfer is 16m Euros and not 20m so that Malaga would get most of the money up front in order to pay for their debt (very unusual in today’s football transfers as most transfer are paid by installments).
Strange drugs you’ve got there, GT….
INdeed Wind, it would take a particularly grovelling apology.
I might ask him to lick my boots for good measure.
Ping.
BMBD
La Boom – http://youtu.be/Fx77iVjGMfc
Cheers, Snir.
And the up front sum thing makes sense if Malaga are desperate for cash indeed.
Wot, not an Arsenal goal, Toby? π
I’m one of the rare person, it seems, who would prefer to see RvP at City than at Juve.
I think I’ve already explained why.
Yep, really sounds like a good hand to have when negotiating with a club that really needs cash and quick. So, it really makes the transfer and us getting him for a lower price than reported much more believable. Great bit of business this.
Great. Now we have a new scapegoat gooners can take their anger off on. Every season we need someone to blame.. Senderos;Squillaci; Arshavin; Theo;Aaron and now its RvP.
Public apology? Haha, you wish.
As long as he bangs in them , thats the best apology he can give.
Only way I’ll sing his name is if he apologizes, gives away the armband and even then it would take a few months before I’d forgive him.
He’d have to earn my trust all over again, kinda like Rooney had to with the UTD fans.
Im with Ollie on seeing RvP at City than anywhere else.. Atleast then we can be convinced its about the $$ and not the success.
I dont care if we are not the riches but it hurts like hell that we have not had the success.
Blogs news says its official
Dr Feelgood has fled the country too – coincidence?
Oh, there there Ollie, I hate that sad look on your face. But I promise that the next time I score with a Caz freekick it will be an Arsenal goal.
richest*
This window is one of the best ever if not the best for Arsenal, simply because of the time it’s taking place.
This is 2012 we’re talking about. Most players are 20m (Joe Allen at 15m pounds anyone) at the very least (not to mention wages, eh).
Yet, we just signed Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud, and Santi Cazorla for 33m pounds.
That is less than one Andy Carroll. Amazing pulling that off in today’s market.
Zico, I wonder if it’s really Blogs that said that or one of his little elves. The quote is from the Twitter account that supposedly is fake, and to me, looks very fake. Really doesn’t look like something he’d fall for?
Z – That Cazorla account is fake.
And now the article on Arsenews is gone.
Eh lads, tha’s bin sup suppin’ round here like. 500+ of the cunts! The little elf referred to above is Sul. Sat with him at Citeh game a few seasons ago. Top lad, even if he has been duped.
Or wait, no it is still there. See how easy it is to make a mistake online? π
And he aint little either come to that.
I’d better stop referring to him as an elf, then.
Yeah, he’s from India as well.
Looks like a Bollywood superstar.
According to @ArseSul you’re wrong, and Sul is a 193 year old Welsh Elf from Snowdonia. Are you saying that account is a fake?
You lost me mate. I know Sul, so does Ollie. He’s from India. Used to live in Toronto. Used to work for OleOle. And he’s a good lad.
If it’s not on Twitter it just isn’t true. Henceforth, Sul is an Elf. From Wales.
Sajit –
Do forgive me for disturbing the harmony in the bar, but will your @505 make you less inclined to jump on AW’s back in future.
Just asking ……
No guys it IS true – Feelgood has left the country….
Wind @ 494: Funnily the photo of Poldi & BFG looking on smiling as RvP looks to be struggling with a barbell is missing from today’s link – it was there last night … hmmm
π
Gone to kidnap Bevin ?
GT @ 526, I’m certain I saw that one today… π
Can’t believe Andrew @ Arseblog News fell for the fake Santi Carzola Twitter Account, just a little bit embrassing π³
Can’t see an article on arseblog news.
What Esso said about sul.
Lucky charm too; we were 1-0 down watching a game in a bar in Paris, sul tuned up late but we equalised just as he showed up and proceeded to win the game.
OK so let me get this straight: Sajit and I are the only ones who are willing to just accept RvP back with open arms without the need for him to humiliate himself. Is that right?
Well I hope he gives you lot a big ‘wankers’ sign when he scores his first goal of the season – that’s what I would do ..
π
@523Toby Yeah and you’re a mug, sorry jug.
The post has now been removed from AB News.
@526 – You mean this?
http://www.arsenal.com/assets/_files/scaled/498×350/aug_12/zp_149714306SM042_Arsenal_Trai_2037.jpg?ic=8ce3a9T
It’s number 3 out of 22 in that batch of photos.
L’Equipe reliable?
http://www.lequipe.fr/Football/Actualites/Cazorla-a-arsenal-c-est-fait/303090
Woah GT, I haven’t said a word on RvP. I will just wait and see what happens. Assuming I am one of “you lot” …..
Settle down, boys. It ain’t FFF, yet.
BMBD
In a bad mood today, Esso, mate? Just pulling your leg.
Ollie: http://news.arseblog.com/2012/08/cazorla-signs-for-arsenal/
But hey, it’s an honest mistake and I don’t care one bit. Moreover, I’ll gladly buy this Sul a drink if I ever run into him, him being a gooner and plying his trade trying to get the rest of us news. Regardless of him being a Canadian Indian or a Welsh Elf.
Not in this case I’d say, ‘holic.
FRancefootball were reporting the source as being the tweet earlier, and they normally share a lot of the info with Lequipe.
Sorry Hurricane. Its there. Must be stir crazy sitting around in front of the computer all day …
π
is this the fake cazorla twitter?
https://twitter.com/SCazorla12
if not, welcome aboard santi!
Oh well, he can sign tomorrow while I am golfing in the rain then π
530 – GT – I’d bust his dodgy knee.
I’m going to #LeaveIt for today on the matter of Carzola’s transfer and check back tomorrow on .com after Tennis in the morning (new racket π no full zipped cover fecking Sports Direct π‘ ), if I’m lucky Sahin will be done as well… 8)
scruz, there’s one clearly fake Cazorla account and another dubious one.
It’s the dubious one that ‘announced’ he’s signed.
GT @ 539, I know mate π No worries π
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TkyDFlMDOs
What do you lot make of this if Sahin signs for us?
If RvP were to perform some sort of u-turn, my bet is the PR stuff would come from the mouth of Arsene Wenger, along the lines of:
“He is a fantastic player, and we never intended to let him go, we need him ya de ya da”
Personally, I still think he’ll be away though….
Seems Blogs has gone all sheepish on the Sul “news” too.
@541 –
And I’ll be not going to the beach in the rain π
Exactly what I make of this.
Handbags.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RaHqTTrFgLE
We could have a replay of that scene in the next Arsenal vs Man City game.
Bring it on!
Wind – one playing for the title, the other to avoid relegation.
What would you expect. A bit of aggression in our team will do it no harm at all.
Adams, Keown, Vieira, Lauren, Storey, McLintock – nuff said ? π
cheers, ollie. how on earth does one ever really know over this internet thing? :eyeroll:
Don’t read it scruz – then you can be sure.
Or wait for Ollie to comment – he knows. π
lol, iT. that’s why i come here…the former is perhaps as sage as the latter. a drink for you and for ollie…
OK so it Trev, Sajit & me .. There’s a possibility that Snir might join us after his little ‘tantrum’ …
π
I’m hearing Downing scored for Liverpool tonight, so the world is about to end anyway.
It was nice knowing you all.
So no time for that little 3-a-side kickabout between Trev, Sajit and GT and Esso, Snir and I.
If Robin keeps his head down, work hard for the team and is banging them in, I’d be willing to move on as well. We are a stronger team with him fit and in form.
gt, i’ll be there with that, pending his attitude. good, contributive, and flexible, and of course. bad, petulant, and bitchy, hell no. in either case, i believe the captain’s armband should pass to another…the verminator would be my choice.
Scruz: I will take that as a yes then! Welcome aboard Impeccable1 .. Hey Ollie make that 5-a-side. Me, Sajit & Trev in attack; the yank in goal (you know they make excellent goalies) and the young Jamaican sweeping up the rear you hateful horrors don’t stand a chance!
Love rules .. π
GT –
I don’t like the direction this team is going in. π π
gt, i’ll play out of position in goal, more of a central defender myself. it’s what you get with 6’2 230# of yank bone and gristle…
iT, if we make you captain, you’ll just leave after a year.
Trev: Is it the money? We can fix that mate. Just pay us what you can afford π―
It never was about the money, GT. I’m just not happy about the quality of some of my team mates. π
Scruz OK I will go in goal. But I want to take all penalties – unless its a shoot-out of course! Don’t want to be accused of being a Preening Fuckwit ffs …
π
Oh, and I’m scared Snir will break my dodgy knee.
He’s mad and full of hate, that Snir. π
Trev: OK if me get a replacement for Sajit he’s history! How about Snir? He’s equally .. how you say .. ‘pernicious’ ..
π
* if WE..
Nah, forget it. I’ll just play anyway. But will my team mates welcome me back now ? π
We are safe if he’s on our side mate.. what you say? π
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Oh no! I’ve started answering questions before they’ve been asked.
It must be Snir’s balls. I told you he was evil. π
Gotta go, see you on FFF !