A Wonderful Weekend
Aug 5th, 2012 by 'holic
It’s Sunday evening. I am sitting here with my usual choice of beverage preparing for a second evening of athletic excellence. Well aware though I am that many of you are not from this island, I trust you will allow me to wallow in a day of remarkable triumphs for team GB.
There were Arsenal links of course. Mo Farah’s support of the club is no secret and he will doubtless be presented to the crowd at the Grove early doors this season. The neighbour was the first to alert me to the fact that Greg Rutherford is the great grandson of Jock Rutherford, twice a Gunner between 1913 and 1926 (and no I didn’t, before you ask!).
As I started this piece Arsenal supporter Perri Shakes-Drayton qualified for tomorrow’s women’s 400m hurdles semi-final. As I type these very words Mo Farah is collecting his gold medal for his wonderful run last night. Having watched Usain Bolt’s semi-final run I have a feeling we will be witnessing a quite astonishing 100m Final later on.
The Olympics have provided welcome distraction from the transfer speculation. That isn’t unique to Arsenal of course, although our potential deals do appear to make for more column inches than others. One move that has been completed has seen Manuel Almunia climb through a David Pleat sized hole in the hedge between the Arsenal and Watford training centres.
Now Manuel has had a mixed time of it with Arsenal. Haunted in his early days by those two Barca strikes in the last thirteen minutes of the 2006 Champions League Final that caught him out at his near post, he showed some character to bounce back and oust Jens Lehmann in 2007-2008. People tend to forget he actually contributed hugely to the team’s challenge for honours that season. Sadly inconsistency returned to haunt him after that, and the emergence of Wojciech Szczesny signaled the end for the Spaniard at Arsenal.
I am pleased however he seems to be resurrecting his career with the Championship club, and he has shown some class with his comments in the wake of his departure. I’m sure many Arsenal supporters will wish him all the best in the future. Others might have rocked the boat more in similar circumstances.
So there we are. Less than two weeks now to the first home game of the new season. The Olympics will be a memory. A fresh, exhilarating memory.
Here’s hoping the rejuvenated Gunners take on board what can be achieved by the right combination of perspiration, application, and inspiration.
265 Responses to “A Wonderful Weekend”
First!
Fair play to Alumina – wasn’t his greatest fan as a goalie but respect his latest comments
Lars…should that be thirst π
…and I did read the post before posting – just going “First!” without reading is cheating π
I agree re: Almunia. No moaning (publically at least) or complaining, and a dignified exit. He wasn’t good enough, but he always tried his best. And as you say, he was really, really good in the 2007/8 season.
“Sahin deal seems very close now as Turkish media are rumoured to have confirmed the loan deal. Exiting times.”
From, you guessed it, Twatter. This is a whole new level of layering – a Twitter rumour about not the player in question but about another rumour… i.e. we have a rumour about there being a rumour!
You couldn’t make it up… is what I would want to say but apparently someone has! π
Uplympian, you might be on to something there π
This Kenyan is a bit of a mentalist.
Congrats is in order to all the team gb,great night last night,it’s great that times have changed and having a couple of beers with friends last night we cheered ye on proper order has resumed, respect to manuel A for being so dignified after his release.
Yeah sure you did Lars!
We just all have an itchy chin, that’s all…
Well, I haven’t had the pleasure watching Mr Bolt as I have been out playing the beautiful game but he can’t have been all that…. I had to run for an hour!
Sometimes with the ball, as well π
First?
(after 10)
Lars 5. Yes, the horrible spelling mistake gave me the hint it was from twatter…..
They got it right, Ollie.
Exiting times…. Best thing to do when rumours about rumours are being peddled as “news” π
Nice post Holic and Andy Murray, though a Hibee, has declared an affinity for Arsenal in the Premiership. Have a word with Ivan to get all the Gooner medal winners to a pre-match presentation at the Grove.
Best summer business in years. Welcome Santi Cazorla.
Celebratory Dom Perignon all round to be followed by a nice wee Macallan.
How can Manuel complain after collecting a reputed 60 grand per week the past two years whilst just training.
I would be honourable too if that were me.
The worst Keeper in Arsenal history.
heh zico π
Almunia was always a decent guy and I wish him well at Watford.Even in Paris he made some great saves before that fateful ending. I took my grandson ( age 4) to Wembley yesterday and if Araene was paying attention the Mexican goalie looked terrific- a very legitimate back- up to Szczesny.
Interesting to note the widespread feeling that footballers whilst playing the most exciting game known to man are not always the best role models. The dignity demonstrated by so many of our Olympians is in stark contrast to the likes of Cole,Terry and Rooney.
Exciting times for our club.I suspect RVP is likely to be off very soon.I think the ‘U- turn’ was a PR stunt to try to resurrect his reputation amongst Gooners ( which I suspect will prove unsuccessful) but if Cazorla is joined by Sahin and my new Mexican friend I will begin the season a happy Gooner,especially if Arsene can unload the surplus to requirements lads from the payroll.
zico@13: good point π
Bathgooner @ 14….. Your celebratory taste is exemplary. -:)
How right you are Holic, most definitely an inspiring display from the athletes, very proud of them all. Appreciate your comments on Alumnia. Confident our lads will come prepared (your last sentence).
Nice words from Manuel. Never really liked him but fair play to the guy.
Also happy birthday to Robin Van Persie. Hopefully , today someone knocks some sense into him.
El Tel, hello there. What does anyone prize more then the good of their reputation, their legacy. Their dignity, if you will. Priceless. No amount of earthly goods can come close to the feeling of self worth.
Dignity? If Almunia had dignity he would have gone to someplace where he would have got first team football instead of getting a fat paycheck for being 3rd choice.
Totally unprofessional and thats why I never really liked him.
But such words are always nice to hear.
If I were casting a play about don Quixote I wouldn’t hesitate to pick Almunia in the lead role. Tall, rangy, Spanish, and at times uncertain, lacking confidence, and/or wearing a haunted look. Not to shortchange his positives though. He was an excellent shot stopper, had a couple of good years as our no 1 keeper, and a good man which is not something to sneeze or shake a stick at in my opinion.
Cheers Holic , great post.
What a weekend of Sport, both in general and for this Country especially.
Yesterday was amazing, the highlight being our boy,Mo, romping home in what must rate as one of the most compelling half an hours of Sport ever.
Today, hats off to Andy Murray. His tennis this afternoon at times reached unbelievable levels.
And Usain Bolt. Just WOW.
Night All.
Shit! Just lost a whole big post in answer to Abb by touching I know not what on the iPad, and “boom”, all gone !
Abb, re JW questions in previous drinks.
I was travelling back from the West Country today so couldn’t respond earlier.
It is very probable that JW’s series of injuries has been caused by a long standing underlying condition, as stress fractures do not result from a single incident.
“Flat feet” would be a likely cause as it is not an uncommon condition. It can be inherited or caused by ‘overuse’.
The hyper-pronation caused by flat feet can cause stress fractures in the feet and ankles, and can also cause the tibia to rotate medially which leads to misalignment in the knee joint.
That, in turn, places abnormal stress on the patella tendon, hamstring insertions and fibro-cartilages among other things.
But surely Arsenal would be onto a problem like that ?
You would think so, but I remember being struck by the total lack of support in the player’s boots when I was ahown around the training ground and medical centre.
That was in the days of Robert Pires, in particular, who ran like a duck, but had no arch support in his boots at all.
Things may be a lot more meticulous now, but those would have been Jack’s formative years, and I do remember reading that he had suffered from ankle problems in the past, when this current series of ankle problems began.
Add to that what Mr C said in the last drinks.
I have also said before, in the drinks, that I wonder whether we suffer more soft tissue injuries than other clubs because we tend to play more very young players at first team level than others do.
Damage to still immature soft tissue, at the speed of first team play, could be very difficult to recover. Resulting instability in the joints would cause protective contracting of the muscles, possibly making them more vulnerable to repeated tearing.
Right, ‘doctor’s coat’ off. I’m off before everyone else in the bar is asleep.
‘Holic, totally agree about a fantastic few days of effort and achievement by our athletes.
Strangely the Ollieimpic news is on the telly as I’m tapping this, and they’re showing the women’s weight lifting contest, fought out between two, er, lovelies from Russia and China.
The commentator said that one of them – missed which one – “had victory in the snatch”.
I can only say that she is welcome to it. π
Did you not enjoy the jerk, Trev?
I couldn’t see it for the snatch !
Trev, You are one of the reasons that make this such a special place to visit. Thank you for taking the time to explain what might be Jack’s perilous position. Realize you and Mr C have limited time (at the bar, that is!). We are lucky to have you both.
Nice one Trev. I learn a lot from you when you are not mucking about π
8ball, Couldn’t have said it better, cheers lad.
Clean. Clean & Jerk boys. Keep it clean. The venerable nurse is on the premises …
π
Hi Gooner Terry (big smile, just for you).
Lets not forget that Almunia’s wife’s mother was killed in a car acident just before the 2009 season started which would have affected him significantly
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Arsenal-keeper-Manuel-Almunia-s-secret-family-tragedy-revealed-article207443.html
Wonderful past few days of Olympics action indeed. Big up to my countrymen and woman – Usain, Yohan Blake and Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce – fastest men and woman in the world. Magnificent!
GoonerTerry: How did you like Bolt’s run? Ha Ha.
Almunia seems like a decent man and good luck to him.
Cheers mate, and cheers for the email as well. Ollie – have texted you, cant make Sunderland unfortunately, will be at the Scummers.
Is there a new HT Fantasy Football League happening this season Holic? If so would I be able to partake in the festivities again?
*bats eyelashes bashfully at the governor*
Yeah, got it Esso, cheers. Gutted that you can’t make it.
Good post Holic, love these London 2012 Games as I spend a good portion of the day watching selected events & becoming a new fan of some and seeing our athletes bring home the Gold Silver & Bronze, never have I felt so proud to be British, only think that comes close for me is Will & Kate’s Wedding π
On the matter of Almunia, even after the 2006 UCL Final and those goals he let in, the thing that truly finished Manuel was his mother in law’s death as a99 says @ 35, the haunted look in his eyes appeared in the beginning of that season and he wasn’t going to be the same after π
Hoping that in this upcoming season Jack & Aaron can shrug off any lingering side effects from their injuries that will hinder them in the near to far future.
Been a bit busy and not been catching up with the drinks
But, Usain Bolt is something incredible! It was fantastic to see him run like that
I have a strange feeling the ‘buying a ticket’ experience will not be fun this morning.
I suspect you could be right @ 42 π
Especially when my login window freezes. Well, I’m at the red bar stage then now, we’ll see how this goes….
Nurse ABB
Your friend had her leg amputated?? Why not go for a hip replacement??
None of my business. Just curious…!! π
I fear I may have to settle for the Clock End as I doubt I’ll be in at 11 on the clock (well, 10 for you π )
It’s the new cunty seat selection system too.
I preferred when it randomly picked a seat in a block.
That bar is slow as fuck.
Aaah, the bar’s starting to do that ‘jump back’ bit π
Sorted clock end.
Yes that was all rather painless Ollie – I too will be a Clock End warrior π
Morning all…
Nice preview of us for the season by The Guardian; not all doom and gloom!
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2012/aug/06/premier-league-preview-arsenal
We’re the West Stand, we’re the West Stand !
Morning Holics
Just secured my seat in 112 for the 18th. I too went to Wembley on Saturday and also thought the Mexican keeper was pretty smart. A very competitive game was enjoyed by a colourful crowd of over 81000. It was great fun and totally different to the usual PL fare.
I’m off to the athletics tomorrow on the 4.50am train, can’t wait as a certain Mr. Bolt will be running in the 200m.
Looking forward to the weekend friendly, let’s hope we get to see the new boys and the speculation over Cazorla is confirmed. As for RVP, I just wish he would get a move on with his exit. As far as I am concerned he has well and truly “burnt his boots” at the Ems! ( sorry about the pun).
Does Santi really exist ? Will he be there at Christmas ? …..
Finally it’s official and they are reporting it on Arsenal.com!
Let’s put it like this, it’s now there in black on white that a step has been taken towards that elusive silverware. Forward!
Oh, it’s about Shakes-Drayton.
Damn you Toby you got me all excited! *throws random stuff in his general direction* π
Heh, I’M SO BORED. That’s all.
Actually, I have a sick little thought in my mind. It probably won’t pan out like this, but I’ve got a little tingling that is telling me something. Sadly, that tingling isn’t Snir’s crystal ball, and there are no sources (made up nor factual) that is agreeing with me, so I won’t even whisper it softly yet, but we will see in the next few days if I am correct. *Mysterious man of… er… mystery!*
Santi’s Coming !
Just asked my wife what the weather is doing.
She looked out of the window and said “It looks like rain, dear” ………
Boooo Trev!!! Have you got a book of these puns?? π
Seriously, many thanks to Abb and GoonerT for your very kind comments.
Actually, I think this bar is full of people that we all benefit from mutually.
As we’re being personal, Abb’s constant generosity of spirit makes me stop and think differently at times, and GT induces a herbal sort of calm when some get way too excited.
The Guvnor sets a very consistent standard of behaviour which results in this bar being always full of brilliant people.
This place really doubles the pleasure of being an Arsenal supporter.
Thanks everyone.
Toby
Nicely played — now when SOMETHING happens, no matter what, you can say “That was it! I told you so.”
And weΒ΄ll all fawn at your feet to worship your myteriousnessesesesesss, quite forgetting that you told us nothing at all.
Brilliant. π
Unfortunately not, Catalan.
Do you know where I can get one.
Actually I asked the bookseller for a book on ‘Innuendo’, but he wouldn’t give me one ! π
heh Toby @56
Trev
I thought that was the blonde who walked into a bar and asked for a double entendre. So the barman gave her one.
My patients talk too… π
@ ‘holic
Exactly. Especially agree on Almunia. One of the good guys.
And I second what has been said by various people about how refreshing it is to hear from unspoilt athletes who do what they do because they love it.
@ Trev
in general, ha ha
@ 58 Toby
OI! You can’t just leave it there, you have to tell us more…
Catalan @65 – π
Yeah. Come on Toby, tell us what’s tickling you…
If you get a chance, check out Laurence Okoye, GB discus thrower. He is the largest guy I have ever seen who isn’t a fat bloke. Only 20. So still growing and filling out…!
Here’s a question: if VP joins the red Manc scum, will he be catapulted to the utmost heights of the pantheon of cunts?
Yes.
In a spirit of contrariness.
No
I don’t know now, I just can’t look at him the same any more. I do believe he’s become irreversibly cuntish already I’m afraid…
Afternoon peeps.
Busy, busy, busy, here in the Lowlands, but that’s no bad thing, it has also given me an excuse to steer well clear of all the transfer guff, speculation, nonsense and downright bollox of the silly season.
I’ve been luvin’ the London 2012 extravagansa, I’ve always been a footy man, but there’s just something about the Olympic Games that puts it head and shoulders above any other event for excitement, pride, passion and raw emotion. I’m not ashamed to confess sheding a tear or two over the last week for boys and girls competing in events that I normally would never pay a passing thought for. Totally briliant.
Drink of choice on the bar for all sports lovers.
I am torn on VP, I become done and dusted about him leaving, and still think he will leave, but I cant bring myself to calling him cunt or actually hate him, memories of his goals from last season are still too fresh and the fact that he pretty much carried whole club on by his form in some parts of the season.
The feeling could be most likely described as “meh”, if he goes he goes, if he doesnt I hope he will not become grumpy and affect other players by negative attitude. Also deep down, I still think of joys RvP in full form might bring alongside our new signings.
Going bright red here.
Thanks Trev.
Catalan, I know, I think it was kind of well played myself. See, I’ve got good advisors when it comes to public statements.
All I will say is that in my wierd, twisted (and mysterious, don’t forget MYSTERIOUS!) brain, I’m beginning to suspect a DOUBLE.
“A double what?” you may ask. I won’t say, says I. If I did say it, it wouldn’t double as a way out of this for me if I am wrong.
Pretty much what Eandy said@75. “Meh” describes it rather well.
FunGunner @69. If you mean this Okoye I couldn’t spot an ounce of fat on him!
http://giaoduc.net.vn/Uploaded/hoangquan/2011_10_26/ec5315b69b42c6720eb0d3d5a1b.jpg
Toby
It would save on the costs of a press conference, eh?! π
Trev@26: most interesting. Makes one realize how fragile these young bodies are and the importance of what runners call form.
Talking of which, I happened to see the highlights of yesterday’s Olympics in the US on NBC. I was unaware that there were any British competing, only Americans and the ‘vulnerable’ Usain Bolt.
Re RVP. If have no respect only contempt for City. If he goes there “meh”.
I have respect but extreme dislike for Manure. I also think we are currently stronger as a squad than them. If he goes there, and we allow it, I will be most unimpressed.
NBN. I heard that NBC didnt even show the 100m live. True??
@ 79 bt8bbgfg
Yes, that Okoye. He looks bigger than that on the telly – and I said largest guy who ISN’T a fat bloke.
Would anyone on here be interested in buying a season ticket this year? I have one going. Or any ideas about good way to find a buyer?
IR – Inland Revenue ??
Careful peeps ! π
Too much to quote, but I suggest you head over to today’s edition of Mediawatch.
I’m giggling.
Camberwell 70: yes! Stapleton II?
DR C 65: heh π
iTrev – Ha I promise it’s not, just unfortunate initials! Do they flog season tickets too? Maybe I’ll get in touch…
ping
pong
tick
tock
King
Kong
Song Billong
Alex Dimitri
(that’s what you should have started with, zico π )
The
*lurks it in to the box*
o dear :O
I would have expected ‘Arsenal’ there; can’t congratulate you I’m afraid, Eandylurker. π
Although I do realise it was an intended assist π
yeah I know..this was again meant to be an assist, not my fault that Mr. FΓΌlop is in the goal π
Well in Eandy.
You may call me a conspiracy theorist, but I believe that the squad for Germany (even though theyΒ΄ve already flown) not being announced, and a certain SeΓ±or Cazorla not being announced as having arrived, may not be entirely unrelated.
Sweepstakes for the day and time of announcement?
IΒ΄ll go for 18:00 GMT today.
What squad for Germany?
For the upcoming stupid early season interlull game?
And nah, announcements are never that late, surely any press conference announcing player is never later than 1600 GMT, right? π
You should REALLY be watching the jump off for the gold in equestrian jumping. I’ve been known to be found on horseback at times, and even if I’ve never practised jumping myself, I must say this is breath-taking at the moment. And speed is also very important during the jump off so it’s all very exciting. Two riders left from GB and two from the Netherlands. At the moment Britain is getting the gold having 8 point less than the Netherlands. But that can change quickly.
Perfect jumping now by Peter Charles and you’ve got another gold.
And GOLD! Well done UK. Your first in Team Jumping since 1952!
Or well, GB π
Oh, right, Arsenal blog.
So, this Arshavin fellow, he looks to be a proper owl, right?
Thursday;
Cazorla announnced. RVP signs contract extension. Sahin announced.
Obvious. Just waiting for Sahin to jet in from the US, where agent Snir is giving a pep talk.
You heard it here first….
NURSE!!:::::………
God I hate Usmanov.
The really sad thing is that some listen and believe his motives are pure.
The world’s gone mad.
Ennis wins the neptathlon 800m from the front.
Farrah goes from 600m and wins the 10k from the front.
Now, Kenny wins the Men’s sprint from the front.
Australia win their second Gold Medal – and it’s in a sport where you sit down.
Have we signed anyone yet?
-neptathlon
+heptathlon.
D’oh
Judging by his twitterings, Lansbury hasnΒ΄t gone to Germany.
I reckon thatΒ΄s his Arsenal career over and done with. Shame.
Oxon: Downing scored for Liverpool last week, and Murray beat Federer in a big final.
What next? A trophy for Arsenal?
The end of the world is nigh π
What is going on with these drinks
We have a team
we dont have a team
Just to insert some (in)sanity, here is an email I just received that covers everything
======
I’ve have been in many places, but I’ve never been in Cahoots.
Apparently, you can’t go alone. You have to be in Cahoots with
someone.
I’ve also never been in Cognito. I hear no one recognizes you there.
I have, however, been in Sane. They don’t have an airport; you have to be driven there. I have made several trips there, thanks to my friends, family and work. I live close so it’s a short drive.
I would like to go to Conclusions, but you have to jump, and I’m not too much on physical activity anymore.
I have also been in Doubt. That is a sad place to go, and I try not to visit there too often.
I’ve been in Flexible, but only when it was very important to stand
firm.
Sometimes I’m in Capable, and I go there more often as I’m getting older.
One of my favorite places to be is in Suspense! It really gets the
adrenalin flowing and pumps up the old heart! At my age I need all the stimuli I can get!
And, sometimes I think I am in Vincible but life shows me I am not.
People keep telling me I’m in Denial but I’m positive I’ve never been there before!
I have been in Deepshit many times; the older I get, the easier it is to get there. I actually kind of enjoy it there.
So far, I haven’t been in Continent; but my travel agent says I’ll be going soon.
====
Now can I get on the train???
Good stuff cognac.
Cognac –
Excellent! Get on the train ? If we still have a driver, I reckon you should be the ticket inspector.
Normal channels of course – letter to Edwin etc.
Assuming you are a gentleman of a certain age, those are the only two things that could go against you. π
Catalan, isn’t his shin still injured?
Not LANSbury at all then. π
Just watching the Oolieimpics and a strange thought occured.
Every sport that involves ‘laps’ seems to go anti-clockwise.
But moter racing goes clockwise.
Any disagreements / explanations ?
Just interested.
And when I checked for tickets today and I saw that dot formation on the Interactive Viewing of the Emirates Stadium, I knew I wasn’t going to the 1st Home Game of the Season π
The only ticket I could afford at this time was gone long time and I’m not sure that I should commit to a game with it being 2 days after my results come out, home situation could be… ‘volatile’ π―
iTrev – being of a certain age, everything has gone against me already
I thought the train was ticketless – ooops sorry that was Wind
Hoho Cognac, very nice π
I liked this one.
“Cazorla spotted in Podolski photo on plane, reflection on plane window, very well spotted. http://t.co/ILlW8Jul ”
I am so bored.
So big thumbs up to Trev for the question about motor sports. It made me think about something else than the big nothingness that is the pre-season. I don’t know Trev, isn’t Nascar most of the time counter clockwise? F1 is mostly clockwise though. Ah, I’m not sure.
Interesting indeed, Trev.
I think MotorSport has both really.
@ 123
On the way to the pub, I travel in a clockwise direction.
On the way home from the pub, I travel in both a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction.
The time taken to return from the pub seems to be disproportionate to the time taken to get there.
Any disagreements/explanations?
Toby, that has to be the laziest photoshop ever, heh π
Mr. T. Doesn’t water go clockwise round the toilet bowl everywhere but in England? π
Did Arsenal forget to make the announcement about Cazorla, being so busy with “other” matters?
In a new BBC article Van Persie has apparently expressed a desire to play both for Man Utd and Juventus this season. It will be very interested to see how he plans to do such a thing.
“Privately, Van Persie is understood to have expressed a preference for the prestige and tradition of United and Juventus.”
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19146466
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19086404
Thanti in Germani. Says Beeb.
Interested = interesting in 133.
I suppose I should reserve the use of “it will be very interested” in case Inter come in with a late offer. π
I may be covering old ground here but just been on RVP’s website and his lead picture has changed from one of him in a Dutch national strip back to an Arsenal strip
Let’s have another look at that last sentence.
“Privately, Van Persie is understood to have expressed a preference for the prestige and tradition of United and Juventus.”
Right. That is of course as opposed to the the lack of presage and tradition of Arsenal, or the money of Citeh. π
FG. Thanti in Germany? Have you developed a lithp? π
Giving it a little thought Iβd call RVP’s homepage a pretty significant change. His lead picture at the time of his statement was one to distance himself from us, it scrolled on a timer through other pictures but the homepage was orange. The picture now is Arsenal and it no longer scrollsβ¦ read what we may into that
Still the same journo who said RvP had signed an extension when he attended an AGM last autumn.
Cazorla may or may not be going to Germany,but fuck pseuso-ITK journos π
pseudo-ITK even :$
I read that he is still a hypocritical cunt, fellovergen.
123 iTrev
Horse racing goes both ways, including in at least one instance, both ways on a figure of eight course.
A thunderous laugh at Dr.Feelgood 129 π
Just watched the end of the ladies’ football semifinal between US and Canada. Mental stuff, great show.
Perhaps it’s because the work done along your second trajectory is zero doctor π
Haven’t had the chance to back drink (will do tomorrow). But Mr C, I saw your question. This happened back in the eighties. She had a very pronounced limp, causing her a lot of pain. Great question, though. Nite all.
G’night nurse π
good night all…praying for santi to come down the chimney whilst britain sleeps :-]
Feelgood – π
Cheers Holic @143.
Just tell us about Santi please Arsenal.
We fans have done enough stress. ?!? π
CG@118: in Spired.
Has it gone quiet, or has the Internet broken?
Love the clip on the official site of Mo Farrah visiting the training ground. He is like a kid in a candy store. As someone else pointed out in earlier drinks, it is refreshing to see so many of these Olympians reminding us that it is possible to be a world-class professional sportsman (and woman) without also being a complete self-absorbed jerk.
NBN, nothing is broken. It’s called bedtime. Hello. Yes, agree about these amazing women and men but I do hear there is some serious partying going on as well, God bless them. That’s all I can say.
Ok, who said we looked better than United. Come forward now. Just kidding, but they didn’t look too bad in their last Friendly. Rooney made one heck of a save, have to say. Now Trev @ 61, what a really nice thing to say. But bring your badself on Friday! Catalan, upbeat article, but I thought AW liked going to Asia, I’m confused. Toby and Eandy, I’ve got a job for you two, if you’re available and so inclined. Please do the play by play on the Brazil match, cause I’ll be sleeping. And maybe Ollie can help out too. fellowvergen @ 139, careful mate, Dr Feelgood might recruit you…seriously though, I’ll have to check it out. Cognac, I read it out loud, that’s code for very good.
Alrighty then, saved the Ladies and 8ball for last (thought you would enjoy that 8ball). Delia, I just wish you could stick around for awhile, but with all you got going on, you are one busy lady! FunGunner, I like the way you’re competing for the centuries, good form. Just watch out for Wind And Gooner Terry (you’ll find out). Now 8ball, I got you here, just cause you make me smile.
Chrisgooner, I’ll be watching you, sleeping on the job. Wait till Holic hears about that. Folks, its been a great read. Morning shift won’t be too happy (smiles). Goodnite Ned. And Snir if you’re lurking, you too.
Is this Cazorla deal done yet? I’m frankly tired of the news
Nurse Abb. I don’t see much chance of you ladies and I hitting a century tonight. We need something to get the drinks moving but I don’t mean rabbit puns. π
Anything interesting happening other than idle predictions of what day we will announce the signing of Cazorla?
BT8B, I actually had a prediction, but that went down the hole. This wait is getting to me and I’ve started getting annoyed by all the little things the club does, but I’m trying to avoid splitting hares. Really looking forward to the announcement, it will feel like a solid 24 carrots when it finally comes.
The BBC seem to have measured Cazorla at 5 feet 6 inches which according to my calculations makes him 2 inches taller than either Xavi or Iniesta. Very impressive indeed.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19086404
Toby. Splitting hares? I thought the verdict was no on rabbit puns!!
Splitting hares?
Ouch. Nothing warrens that kind of cruelty π
How is everybody?
I’m so bored, nothing at all is going on it seems.
What’s the verdict on the HT FFL then?
Got a chance to see Kirani James of Grenada winning the 400m hurdles for the first ever gold medal for that country. Very impressive performance, too. Maybe not quite domination on the scale of Usain Bolt but pretty close. Between the Jamaicans and the others, it seems the islanders are the only sprinters who really matter anymore.
I’m sorry! I missed that. Guess I wasn’t…. ALL EARS! MWOHAHAHA.
Anyways.
http://www.metro.us/philadelphia/sports/article/1148979–what-if-every-olympic-sport-was-photographed-like-beach-volleyball
Point well made, says I.
Oh and the Beeb are apparently telling the story of how a players career with Arsenal usually looks by using three exampled on BBC/Football. Here’s the screenshot:
https://skitch.com/drostan/emdct/bbc-sport-football
Hmmph…..
What does it all mean?
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arsene-wenger-being-held-back-by-arsenal-politics-claims-alisher-usmanov-8014665.html
It means Usmanov is a shit-stirring Jabba-looking cunt, I don’t see anything new, CoR.
CoR: I haven’t read the article, but I’d hazard a guess that It means that Usmanov has found a friendly journo to push the line that Arsenal’s transfer policy is run by someone other than Arsène Weneger, and that if he, Usmanov, were running the show then he’d jolly well throw so much money at Wenger that he, Wenger, would be able to run the transfer policy that he wanted, unfettered by any considerations of ling-term sustainability.
As I said, I haven’t read the article, so I may be wrong.
I’m not sure whether I will read the article, probably not, but I’m off to work now and I’m easily bored…
Bugger.
-ling
+long
No heather-related sustainability concerns here, oh dear no.
Heh, yeah, nothing really new I guess. I’m just so starved of Arsenal news I felt like I had to read it though :/
I had a hutch it’d be more scaremongering though…
Toby @166…. think you may have just made WolfieΒ΄s day!
What Ollie said @169
The fact that Usmanov is in with Dein, whoΒ΄s son is serially raping Arsenal for their best players, and then they have the temerity to blame Arsenal for this…. pfffft!
CoR, I think arseblogger says all that needs to be said in today’s edition.
Looks like my Qantas airmiles are about to expire soon, heh.
Can anyone explain to me why Van Persie needs to be off the premises before the no 10 shirt is allocated to Podolski (or anyone else for that matter)? I’m sort of quoting Blogs here…..
He’s already said he doesn’t even see himself being part of the squad so just remove the number as well as the armband – if he decides to see out his contract, we can give him a trivial number, like, oh let me see, 51?
Assuming PArk is off, we should give him the dreaded number 9, see if he can rise to the challenge of unjinxing it.
Like your thinking, Zico. π
Wonder who is captain for the Koln game??
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-sign-spain-midfielder-santi-cazorla
Oh, look!
Quelle surprise!
π finally!:D
I just wish I could understand what RvP meant by ‘not agreeing with the way this club is going’, or stuff like that.
Yay! Santi has made it down the chimney at last.
http://www.arsenal.com/assets/_files/scaled/384×498/aug_12/zp_149882744_SM_MAFC_0C6_B445_copy_2867.jpg?ic=0216b7T
Heh, is he short?
Cazorlaaaa!!! Sorry I can’t help myself. Santi is finally coming to town in red and white. Simply unbelievable!
@ Ollie and CG
Agree about Usmanov statement. It’s so transparent, it’s a joke – fans are feeling positive and he’s panicking. However, the part where he has a go at the late Danny Fiszman, a genuine gooner who gave up the last years of his life to setting the club onto the track which he thought was best for it, is despicable.
Can we do christmas puns now?
Because I would like to take this opportunity to tell this one to Van Persie. He might learn something. So, to Van Persie via Santi Claus:
Why did Frosty go to live in the middle of the ocean?
Because snow man is an island.
Oh, and FUCKING FINALLY! Good job, IG and the team! Great signing methinks.
Β£12 million rising to Β£17million, says Jamie Sanderson, which would reconcile the conflicting reports of the fee. Very good business. Well done Arsene and Ivan.
Just watching his interview and oh my gosh that lad really is smiling all the time! Cant help it but I am smiling too just watching it, I think that is going to be great asset also for dressing room, emitting good mood all around. Simply brilliant signing!
Arteta looks like such a happy bunny, horsing around with Santi in the photos. Santos, Santi and Arteta – the Three Amigos?
via @GeezyPeas yesterday;
Well, Gays will be boys and boys will be gays,
In a mixed up, loving, Santos world,
except for Zorla, Ca Ca Cazorla, Santi Cazorla….
#Kinks
Heh, I love it that when he gets the question about the recent story of the club he gives a really big blushing smile and says “Well, first of all they have been playing Champions League football for the last 15 seasons.”
He is already an Arsenal-player alright!
And as you said Eandy, his smile is really infectious. Looks to be a great lad to have around.
@ 191 CG
ha ha
Morning all.
Do you think Santi has a sell on Clause in his contract?
Bienvenido a Arsenal SeΓ±or Carzorla.
I know some of us have our reservations about Cesc, but I donΒ΄t think that we can doubt heΒ΄s a fan;
Cesc FΓ bregas Soler β@cesc4official
I’m so happy to hear that my mate Santi Cazorla is finally a gooner. Top guy, special player. A great signing! Come onnn!
Also, Cazorla credits him (and Pires) as talking up the club.
Thank you agents Cesc and Pires (sigh)
I bet all the tabloids are going “BREAKING NEWS: ARSENAL SIGN CAZORLA” and trying to pretend they were the first to get the news.
At least we can all stop fretting now and van Persie’s talk of ambition has been even further exposed for the bullshit it was. Still, if he decides to stay and is committed I wouldn’t it at all.
Catalan: agree, Cesc has never said anything bad about the club since leaving. And if he helped us sign Cazorla then all the better.
I remember us facing Villareal in 2006 CL semis, I was rather relieved to hear Santi got injured and wasn’t able to play against us. At the time he was a rising youth star in the Villareal team, just beginning to attract the media’s attention. And now he’s a Gooner. Arteta and Santi, not too shabby at all. Brilliant in fact. Vamos!
Dr F…
Apparently Santi wants to catch a train!! Are we going to charge him??
βIt was always a club I liked very much. Because of circumstances in football things have not gone as well as weβd have liked in Malaga this year, but now Iβm going to have the opportunity to experience the Premier league and I couldnβt miss it. Iβm 27 years old, it was the last train I could catch.”
Morning all,
I’m dispensing with this silly “i” thing but apologies in advance fot the multiple spilling orrors that seem inevitable on the iPad.
What Ollie and Catalan and FunGunner said about Usmanov.
Zico – good stuff on Poldi’s / RvP’s shirt number. Hell yeah ! Sorry I’m reading too much Abb and getting all merkanised !
Off to have a look at .com as it seems we have a new present, all present and correct.
Happy days Gooners. The mugs up the road must be looking at their only striker and er, worrying………
“I could not miss this opportunity – I am 27 years old so it was the last train I could catch.”
This is a theme with many of the footballers we have signed as established players – Sagna, Mertesacker, Arteta et al – coming here is “making it” and they appreciate what they have got. I occasionally get the feeling that *some* of the young ‘uns don’t.
Boom! – http://youtu.be/TT-aL–07TA
I wish we could show some more ambition
Left foot / right foot Santi free kick rocket…….
Hits the post / bar, knocks out the goalie and…..
Heh, looks like the beach footy stuff doesn’t always come off…
Oh my God, I scored without even trying! Yay!
(Runs around doing inappropriate and highly embarrassing celebration which will feature on YouTube for years to come)
Well in Fun’ for the two ton.
A trifle tardy on that Free Kick, Santi! Sharpen yourself up!
Well in FunGunner!!
Oh no – don’t tell me – it was offside? Foul on the keeper?
H2H –
Now look here, I already did a “Santi Clause” pun and the lovely Senora Catalan is already spoken for. Twice. π
Goal stands! Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaay! (Repeats dodgy celebration with no sense of irony whatsoever)
Welcome on board the Happy Train, Santi π
Thanks for the congratulations. I’ll continue to stay humble and work hard for the team.
Hey FunG,
Any time you need to score I’m happy to assist. As, indeed, I did. π
Sorry about that Trev, blame a lack of back drinking for that faux par, but I should of known you’d already got the pun in.
*Skuttles off to the naughty step*
Nice one Catalan, re Cesc.
“Ohhhhh Arsenal we love you!”. π
Forgiven H2H, but don’t do it again. π
Oh dear, just read FunGunner @212 – she’s off next summer then ? π
Hey Ollie, a great day, Bon Santi ! π
Arriba los pistoleros!
Not sure how to say ‘gunners’ in Spanish…
Phew! *wipes brow*
artilleurs
@ 217 Trev
ha ha ha
YES! We already have something new to look forward to on Arsenal.com according to a tweet:
“@Arsenal
…and before the squad boarded their coach there was a penalty shoot-out between Song and Santos. We’ll try and bring you footage soon”
@ Trev
And thanks for the assist
And can I thank abb for showing faith in me.
(finally gets over herself, stops celebrating and concentrates on defending opposition breakaway resulting from her being so excited that she didn’t track the runner through midfield)
If matches really are ‘won in midfield’ , as they say, I think we’ve got the League sewn up. π
FunG –
No need to thank Abb. she’ll already have assumed that and be thanking you for the appreciation. π
JUst on the Olympics again, have any of the triathletes in the swimming noticed the guys at the back on motorised surfboards? Surely that’s cheating?
It’s all gone a bit pearshaped for the Brits in the athletics stadium – lots of injuries and some athletes not performing as expected – the hangover from the other night, perhaps.
So 3 international signings for less than an Andrew Carroll and we are going in the wrong direction?
An elementary course in fence-painting is already showing signs of paying off. π
So the doomers are, Usmanov, RvP and presumably le Cunts….everyone else appears to be delighted, me included.
11 sleeps…..
FunGunner, well in, I saw abb telling you to watch out for me and GT when competing for the centuries but I was like haha come off it 8) and then you go and do that @ 200 π
#TheNurseKnows
And welcome Santi Cazorla! I was asleep when it was annnounced! π³ Now Gooners’ mental states can return to normal along with the levels of paranoia towards the club π
The more I watch him, the more I’m baffled by him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYDwTrJO7pc
He even has the movements of a left footed player, but he also has movements of a right footed player.
I have never seen anything like it.
Never.
It’s truly incredible.
*basking in satisfying new star signing glow*
Lots of worthy people including Snir’s balls think Sahin will happen too.
Icing. Cake.
FUN 186 indeed, I felt sick when I read the Fiszman bits.
And well in at 200.
YOu lot have been posting like mad, it’s like we’ve signed a player or something…
You better not shout,
You better not cry,
You better not fight,
I’m telling you why,
Santi Caz is coming to town.
So, by all accounts three very good signings in the bag. We’ve certainly given ourselves a platform from which to perform better than last season. The only thing that “worries” (for lack of a better word) is that we are now in the rather unfamiliar situation of the team actually having some expectation on it. That needs to be handled well by Arsene who needs to make the team understand that we still need to work as hard the whole season as we did when clawing ourselves back up the table after the horrible start to last season. But if he pulls that off then we should be in for a good season.
Gervinho, Arteta, Mertesacker, Santos, Podolski, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Giroud and Cazorla on permanent transfers. All brought in within 13 months. Wilshere hopefully to come back sometime in October.
Now, could you repeat for us, Mr van Persie, that stuff about “the direction of the club”?
@ Wind and Ollie
ha ha and thanks
Re the GB athletes, seems the crowd noise and the pressure is affecting them adversely – very unfortunate.
Looking at the .com videos etc today… Anyone else prefer the new training top to the away strip?? Why couldnΒ΄t they have gone with that??
Or maybe itΒ΄s just the way Mikel wears it… π
Our Santi certainly seems fond of the clipped lofted pass out wide – and according to Youtube does it brilliantly!
Seriously VP? Kindly shove off, we’ll be fine without you.
When are we signing Sahin then ?
Can’t this club do ANYTHING right ?!?!?! ;). ;). π
Lars – “we have given the Happy Train a new platform ……”
Really ? And stop worrying. π
Santi training in Germany
http://cache1.asset-cache.net/gc/149928077-santi-cazorla-of-arsenal-during-a-training-gettyimages.jpg?v=1&c=IWSAsset&k=2&d=GkZZ8bf5zL1ZiijUmxa7QUzXbm1F4nZgt70mK730zIqYKQbGh4jSLc4sqEr/oIsOy4ADSi8CQaiZj/v1GX91/A%3D%3D
Trev
Too right! ItΒ΄s been at least a couple of hours now, and still Sahin hasnΒ΄t been signed!
WhereΒ΄s my bin bag??
LANS
If Jack can come back earlier than October , we dont even need Sahin.. But now more Barcunts are starting to talk about Song.. FAAAAAK
I see that GB just won the gold in the Triathlon.
That sport was (kinda) invented in Holloway, when we used to bunk into Hornsey Rd baths for a swim, steal a bike outside the Sobell Centre and then have to run away from the old bill.
Congratulations Brownlee.
Trev, don’t tell the doctors but I did say “worries” because I wanted them to administer some of those lovely pills that make one feel all cosy and warm…
Massive heh@245 π
Finally we have an announcement! Kudos to Ivan and team
Does anyone else think we would do better to sign a back up DM rather than someone like Sahin? I mean we shipped 48 goals last season
heh Trev π
That’s TRev @ 240.
AS I said, posting like mad: has this place turned into the arses? π
Que paso’? Is there a new passenger on my Arse or something? π
Cazorla is AANS
I know I’m known for my optimism, but all I can say is Arsenal will need a bigger trophy cabinet. When did we last have such a great squad, been awhile. Santi, welcome. You have great taste. Cesc, love you, always. I want to CHRUSH United this year. Our two worst memories are with them last season. Sorry, Mr Hart. But this is war.
Hey FunGunner, saw you on YouTube, boy they work fast. Congrats on your goal, now if we could only get Delia in on the action, the lads won’t stand a chance!
Harsha, good point. Our back four was in constant disarray due to injuries, but still the number is excessive. When Santos plays (and I do adore his cheeky forays behind enemy lines) he’s got to make defending his top priority. Gosh, I’m so excited.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-train-in-germany-picture-special
Featuring RvP even more prominently than Santi C.
Cheers, abb!
It seems the capture of Santi and pursuit of Sahin is Arsene planning well for the absence and potential long re-integration of JW and the absence of Song and Gervinho in January. The squad has excellent depth for those types of contingencies for the first time in years.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Catalan @237 yeah I have said that when first pics of away kit were leaked, the training kit would be much better option for an actual kit, the colors are not too bad together, but the style of the strip is what makes it that bad π
Hey Fun,remember us when…Now with Robin, I read everyone’s take on him, and I really understand all the different sentiments. Truly. I’m a wee bit older than RVP (rolling my eyes). And boy, I have screwed up so many times and made some pretty stupid decisions along the way. When Robin was on the field last season, you could just see how determined he was to help the team (defensively as well). Won’t ever forget that.
OK – I never seen Cazorla play.
Over the last week or so the excitement of his arrival leads me to believe he’s decent.
But a quick look at his career stats to date (on .com) aren’t wondrous.
A goal every 4 or so games.
So I’d love to hear from ‘holics who know more than I do….
From the latest training photos, RvP has that ‘why the fuck did I back myself into that stupid corner? what a fucking cunt I am!’ look.
While Theo has that ‘how the fuck am I going to play with so much talent in the squad now’?’ look.
Dear Alex
Would you like to go and play for Barca?
Ok.
Before you were good enough to play for Arsenal we had another player called Alex. He went there too….
Enjoy.
What’s up, this weekend is nice for me, since this time i am reading this fantastic educational article here at my residence.