RIP Rocky + More bad news… 31 March, 2009

Today is the 8th anniversary of the tragic death of an Arsenal legend. On the 31st March 2001 David Rocastle lost his fight with cancer and died at the premature age of 33.

All that needs to be said about Rocky has been said, everyone knows that he was a special talent and we were lucky to be blessed with him. The word ‘legend’ is not used lightly.

He will never be forgotten, Gooners don’t forget. His name is sung loud and proud pretty much every single game and I’m sure he will be especially praised this weekend.

Rest in peace, Rocky.

Right so on to the news, and I’m afraid it’s another injury. If you had to put money on one of our players picking up a knock, who would it be? No, not Robin van Persie, we already know he’s injured. Yep you got it – Abou Diaby.

Once again, not sure how bad it’s going to be but he has withdrawn from the France squad and will miss tomorrow’s game. It’s such a shame, not only because he had a chance to play that match instead of the injured Jeremy Toulalan, but also he has been doing quite well for us recently and it’s all going to come to a halt.

What pisses me off is how close we were to a completely fully fit squad before this international break. Now we’re expecting Diaby, van Persie and Bendtner to all return broken. We do have Fabregas, Adebayor and Eduardo to come in for those three but that’s not the point. What do the international coaches do to our players to consistently ruin them?! We’ll hear how bad all three injuries are in the build up to the weekend, lets hope it’s nothing too bad.

Robin van Persie’s been talking about his new contract extension saying it’s not a case of money but trophies. He wants some sort of assurance that we are going forward and will add to the dusty trophey cabinet. You can’t blame him really; he should be allowed to make these sort of demands:

“I’m still in negotiations with Arsenal, and it’s going well – in a very positive atmosphere. There are further meetings planned. Financially Arsenal’s last offer is fine, but that isn’t everything for me. It’s about my ambitions and how they can be fulfilled.

The club and I want the same, and it’s our intention to achieve that. We have all the other factors in place – fantastic stadium, dedicated support and money in the bank. Now it’s about making that final push. In the last four years, I’ve only won one prize, the FA Cup – and that is too little. I want to push through to achieve more.

That is something I feel in my mind and my body. It’s difficult to explain, but I certainly feel I can play an important role in taking Arsenal to a higher level.

I believe the wild days are behind you when you reach 25. From this age on, you should be reaping the rewards of what you’ve learned. After seven years in professional football, I now have what I need to go further. I’ve heard and seen enough – it’s as if I’ve crossed a barrier. I see players between 25 and 30 having their best years.

In a certain sense, it feels like a voyage of discovery – and I feel I’m where I want to be as a footballer. This also applies to physical development. Now, I can play out matches a lot easier.”

He gets a bit mature and weird sounding towards the end but on the whole that is quite a positive interview. I don’t doubt that a deal will be sorted and I think he will agree that this team does look to be on the up from this dip. The only way that’s going to happen is if the big stars hang around until the little ones grow up. He says he thinks he “can play an important role in taking Arsenal to a higher level” so he must believe in the side.

I’m hoping his deal gets done soon; he’s a fantastic player and has shown this season how valuable he is to the side (when he stays fit).

Arsenal.com have reiterated RedAction’s Turn Wembley Red Campaign for the FA Cup Semi final. I will also be getting behind that one on the blog in the build up to the game. There’s also a cheeky link on Arsenal.com’s link there to the Arsenal Shop just incase you don’t have any red clothing…

That’s your lot today. I’ll leave you with this.

Van Persie injured, Club Share news & other bits 30 March, 2009

Just as I forgot about van Persie’s terrible injury record he goes and does it again. Robin’s pulled out of the Dutch squad with a groin injury, no idea of the extent of the problem but it is serious enough to make him miss Holland’s midweek game. I’m hoping that he’s going to be fit for the weekend for us but I’m feeling quite pessimistic about it all.

I’m sure we’ll find out the extent of the problem in the next couple of days when he reports back to Arsenal so I guess we can’t really discuss it until then. We’re also waiting to hear how bad Bendtner’s injury is so we’re facing the possibility of losing both of our current 1st choice strikers in one weekend. Not to mention Theo Walcott last week but he should be back soon.

Not sure if Eduardo’s still out but if not he’ll be available soon anyway, also Adebayor is back now, hopefully he can find some form quickly.

We’ve been informed of some share movement today, Danny Fiszman has sold 5,000 shares to Stan Kroenke. This means that Fiszman has just a 16.1% in Arsenal (10,025 shares) and Kroenke now has 20.5% (12,756 shares).

Danny Fiszman explains the transaction here but I have a feeling that the £42.5m coming his way might’ve had something to do with it!

This is all legal as part of the Lockdown Agreement as fellow board members can trade shares as they please as long as it’s all agreed.

Ivan Gazidis has been saying how this is a positive move for the club but it’s strange how David Dein was apparently thrown off the board for trying to sell to Kroenke and now it is absolutely fine. I guess anything to stop Usmanov getting involved is a positive step forward though. I’m not the biggest expert when it comes to news like this but I guess it can’t be that bad news. We’ll probably get a better idea of what impact this is going to have on the club in the near future.

There are a few pieces of other news to let you know about. We’re now apparently allowed national flags in the stadium again. It was a ridiculous rule in the first place but I’m glad the club has finally rectified it. Don’t get me wrong I can understand how some flags can cause problems to certain people but it’s a fucking football stadium for God’s sake what do you expect? We can probably thank RedAction for the club rethinking the rule, they had a little campaign getting people to bring national flags to the games, which caught on for a while and now we’re allowed them again. Until then end of the season anyway when it will be revised…

There’s another bit of news from RedAction. They want us to turn Wembley red by whatever means possible. It’s bound to be a massive day out – our first trip to the new stadium and a massive clash vs. Chelsea so I’m all in favour of this. I’m sure many of you have just found out whether you were successful with tickets or not this past week and are already looking forward to it. I just can’t wait to be down in Wembley in three weeks seeing the place taken over with Gooners. Lets not get too excited now though, I’ll save the build up to nearer the time.

And finally, Mikael Silvestre has been saying something if you’re interested…

That’s it for tonight then as we edge even closer to the end of the international break. Hopefully I’ll have some good news on our injured strikers tomorrow. Thanks for reading.

I believe in miracles, you Cescy thing 29 March, 2009

I’m so sorry, couldn’t resist.

Cesc Fabregas has been talking to the media at the opening of his soccer school in Barcelona and he’s said he is still hoping we can win the league:

“I believe in miracles. It has happened before in football so why not this year? But it is going to be difficult. Right now we have to think about catching Chelsea and then we will think about the others.

But what we have to think about is winning the eight games we have remaining.”

I guess he’s not wrong. We’re currently 10 points behind Man Utd but Aston Villa has shown us recently how quickly a lead can be lost if confidence is lacking. United have just lost two on the bounce – a humiliating defeat to main rivals Liverpool and a shock 2-0 loss to Fulham. Next up they face Villa who aren’t in great form themselves but have shown they are a good side. So who knows? Miracles can happen and if we do everything we can to put the pressure on, you never know.

Cesc has also been praising new signing Arshavin. What a combination that’s going to be – Cesc Fabregas and Andrei Arshavin. Mouthwatering.

The News of the World has been trying to stir things up this weekend and there’s really nothing more to be said than this. Load of shit story not even worth me linking it to you. End of that.

Some of our stars were in action this weekend for their countries, Adebayor and van Persie both netted for their nations. Nicklas Bendtner was also involved but there’s bad news as he went off with a knee injury. It’s a shame because he’s had a decent run of games recently but with Adebayor now back I guess it’ll be a straight swap for the weekend. Arshavin played 90 minutes or Russia, as did Gallas and Sagna for France. There’s no more big news from our other players in action but if anything comes up I’ll fill you in.

Mark Randall has said he might have to leave Arsenal in order to gain first team football. He’s said that he would prefer a loan but I have a feeling with all the players we have at the moment Mark will have to wait a very long time before he becomes a regular in the Premier League or Champions League. We’ll have to wait see what happens to our reserve team captain, I would be surprised to see him not go on loan or move on completely next season.

Well that’s it for tonight. I’m back in London now for a couple of weeks and I’m already itching to see Arsenal next weekend. We’ll start to get some sort of idea on team news in the week.

See ya.

A quick update 28 March, 2009

Just dropping in to let you know the dull international break hasn’t killed me. Yes, I’m suffering but I think I’m going to make it.

Thought I better write something seeing as I was away yesterday. Haven’t really got time to write a full-length blog post, sorry, but I’ll fill you in on the news.

There’s been a bit of talk today about Cesc Fabregas’ future with us.  He’s said he’s happy at Arsenal for now and is flattered by all the interest in him but he wont be following any of it up right now. He has admitted that he will think about his future at some point but is committed to us for now. It’s been a frustrating season for him picking up the first major injury of his career just after being made captain of the club but I’m sure he’ll be massive for us in the remaining couple of months. Here’s what he’s been saying:

“I do not close the door to anyone and I never did it. Every player has his own way to live his life. Every summer he assesses how the season has been, if he is happy or if he can improve. But at the moment two months of competition are remaining. I have just recovered from injury after spending four months out, and the only thing I must be focused on is playing football because it is what I like.

I cannot control what people say about me, anyway it is incredibly flattering that the two biggest clubs in the history of football are saying such things about me. If Wenger asks me to stay, for sure I will remain with Arsenal. If someone wants me, first of all he needs to speak to Arsenal.”

I like that last paragraph, it makes me feel a bit more confident he will stay. No one will blame him if he decides it’s time to move on, we can’t control that but I’m hoping he’s here for many years to come yet.

He’s also been saying that he is in contention for next week’s game vs. Man City but it is up to the coaches. I’m back in London for a few weeks over Easter and this will be my first game in a while so I’m really looking forward to it, and if I get to see Cesc too that’d be great.

Oh and he’s completely over the whole spitting incident too…

There’s a nice interview with Tomas Rosicky here for those of you with ATV Online talking about his return to football. He should be back playing net month and can’t wait to get back out on the pitch. It’ll be great to see him playing for Arsenal again, this time it will really be like a new signing…

And apparently we never had a problem with Adebayor playing for Togo. That’s that settled then. I expect he’ll be back playing for us next weekend then.

Right I’ve really got to go now. I’m sure there’ll be plenty of fresh injuries or something to talk about tomorrow. Thanks for reading.

The international period will be the death of me. 26 March, 2009

Only day four of the international break and I’m already suffering. What makes it worse is that we’ll have to wait another 9 days until we play again. Well at least next week we’ll have a load of fresh injuries to talk about.

So, some news…yeah. Erm. Not a lot of that about.

Apparently we sent Emmanuel Adebayor on international duty with the understanding he won’t be playing any football. Well the Togo boss has said he will be involved which will surely piss off Arsene Wenger. Here’s what head coach Jean Thissen said:

“Ade did not come here for nothing, he is here to play against Cameroon. He is the main man for the national team. He is my captain, the nation can count on him. He has always given his best for the country so he will be a boost to the squad. He is a wonderful player.”

If it is true that we told them he wasn’t allowed to play then I’m sure Arsene will have something to say about that. If we didn’t tell them that… well I guess there really is no news here then.

The Italian press reckon that AC Milan are getting ready to line up another bid for Ade this summer. They quite publically tried last year but we did everything we could to keep him after a terrific season. This time around I wonder if we will be so bothered?

There’s a hilarious story going around today that we might be interested in re-signing Jeremie Aliadiere if Middlesbrough go down. Probably one of the most stupid stories I’ve ever heard. The striker has scored 8 goals in 59 games for ‘Boro – somehow I don’t think we will be making an inquiry.

Freddie Ljungberg is set to make his debut for Seattle this weekend after almost a year out with an injury (again). I really help it goes well for him, he’s really had a difficult time trying to continue his footballing career and he deserves something for the effort he’s put in. He’s back in full training now apparently but isn’t quite fully fit, I hope it all turns out alright for him in America.

LG’s Blog are running a photography competition at the moment with a £1,000 prize. All you have to do is upload one of your proudest football snaps to go up against a professional’s work. It’s worth a shot I guess and it’s something to do during this Arsenaless depression, I’m going to have a look through my photos later and see if I can upload something.

Well I guess that is all I can churn out for you today. I will try to write something for tomorrow but I’m not making any promises I’m afraid. Might be a few updates on twitter though.

Right then I’m off, thanks for reading.

Possible new away kit photo & other news… 25 March, 2009

Here is one of the first photos of what could be our new away kit for next season replacing the current Anfield ’89 shirt. First impressions – I quite like it in a strange way. Earlier this season I said how it might be interesting to see Nike remake the old green away shirt of the 80′s and it looks like they might be doing it.

Obviously we’ll get no confirmation of what our new kit is until the summer but this could be it. No idea about how legitimate this image is but it looks a decent copy – might be a Nike prototype. Just thought I’d share it with you, if I hear any more news or see anything else I’ll post it up. I know a lot of people don’t like this already but cheer up, it could be worse.

There’s really not a lot going on this week. With everyone away on international duty Arsenal news has been in short supply…

There is a bit of team news, Silvestre is fit again recovering from his ‘three week’ injury after two and a half months. He completed 90 minutes for the reserves on Monday night in the 0-0 draw with Chelsea. I really doubt we’ll be seeing much of him this season. Djourou, Gallas, Toure and probably Song are all ahead of him in the pecking order so it’d take some terrible luck with injuries before we saw him.

Manuel Almunia has been talking about the possibility of playing for England again. He’s planning on applying for a British passport in January and then if Fabio Capello wants him then he will have a think about it. I think it’d be great to see him playing for England, I’d definitely welcome another Gunner representing my country. I can imagine i would be a tough decision for Manuel but we’ll see. I think he might be tempted, I doubt he’d get another chance to play in a World Cup.

Well that’s it for today then. Will try to speak to you tomorrow, might have to make some news up. Until then.

We’re looking up the table, Villa are looking down 23 March, 2009

We go into this international period with a 3 point lead over Aston Villa, in fine form with Villa falling apart. It’s looking good for us and the 4th spot is definitely ours to lose now.

We’re in high spirits and you won’t blame Wenger’s ‘crazy’ title ambitions. He knows that it would be a miracle if we did do it but miracles can happen. We just need to concentrate on our games and keep winning and just see where that takes us. Wenger says he just wants us to get as close as possible. With Liverpool, Chelsea then Man United all still to play in our league run-in we have a chance if not to get ourselves in the mix, to have an impact on where the title ends up.

Over in Birmingham, things aren’t quite so optimistic at Aston Villa. Here are Martin O’Neill’s latest comments:

“You would have to say now there won’t be much of a threat from us to Arsenal’s position. It’s no fluke that the top four are where they are and we are in a dip right now.

We are not as strong as those four clubs. I have said it many times before and I will say it again – we still have a lot of catching up to do. It is still reachable as Arsenal have many tough games to come. But they are getting some of their injured players back and it’s going to be very, very tough.”

Sounds very pessimistic from O’Neill but he is right. I’ve been saying it all along that we were due all our stars back at one point and we’re going through that stage at the moment. Any coincidence we’ve gone through this run of form? Everyone is set to be back after the International break, fingers crossed no one picks up any fresh problems with their countries.

Emmanuel Adebayor has been called up to the Togo squad this week despite not being fit enough to play for Arsenal. He maybe be due to return for our next game against Man City but still… It does show how important he has become for us – someone who sees themselves as the best player at the club. We were certainly in no rush to bring him back for the Newcastle game; instead we’re quite happy to play Bendtner who is now on the same goals tally as Ade for the season.

Wenger has said he hopes Newcastle avoid the drop. He has said he “likes the people” and he “likes the consistency of support. Well I’m not backing down from what I said yesterday – they are a dirty bunch of players and if they have to resort to elbows, headlocks and unnecessary challenges I have no time for time. Wenger’s right, they do have to talent to keep themselves up, why don’t they apply it? Take Steven Taylor for example, I can admit he is a good defender and stole the show at the back for Newcastle on Saturday and kept his side in it. However that blatant deliberate elbow on Arshavin will not leave my memory – nor will all the other examples from him and his team mates.

What pisses me off is that even though Taylor clearly set out to hurt Arshavin and it was caught right in front of a camera – nothing will be done. If that was Cesc Fabregas you can bet your arse the whole country would be protesting. Why? Is it because he’s not English? Well maybe some players can learn a thing or two from our ‘foreigners’. Rant over.

Abou Diaby has come out of Saturday’s game with some praise and has been compared to Patrick Vieira by Arsene:

“There are similarities. They are the same stature and the same size and have the similar style. Also Patrick is from Senegal and Abou is from Ivory Coast. But there is a lot of room for him to get where Patrick was. He is only 22 years-old and Patrick is a good role model for him.

“In the first half I was not always happy with his performance. There was not a lot wrong but our positioning in the middle was not right some of the time. We were on the back foot and did not protect our defence. But in the second half he did well. Abou has power coming through the middle of the park and he showed that on the goal.

That is interesting for me. I feel there are similarities with Vieira and I feel he is growing at the moment.”

I’ve always thought Abou had a bit of Paddy in him. The way he runs and the way he passes the ball are almost identical to Vieira’s body language. He has to work on playing like him though, you do get to see glimpses of it but all he needs it a bit of consistency. Like Wenger said, he wasn’t brilliant all game on Saturday but he was good. He needs to just stop getting injured and put a string of games together – this is his chance.

Well I’ll leave you to it for today then. Things are bound to get a bit quieter now as we move further into the international period. I will do my best to get something written for you! If you look below this post there is a new piece from our new contributor, Sandy. Give it a read and let us know what you think.

Right then, see you later.

Could Arshavin be the missing piece? 23 March, 2009

Andrey Arshavin has been a sensation since he joined, no one doubted the boy had talent but few would have expected him to hit the ground running the way he has, and he is not yet 100% match fit!

Arshavin seems to offer Arsenal a new dimension to their play. We already have creative players in the team but he is the only one who seems to be able to create chances from absolutely nothing and look threatening ever touch he gets.

Our defence is starting to look reasonably solid with Gallas and Toure working well together of late and our midfield looks more piercing with the return of Theo. Our striking options are increasing with Eduardo back playing and Adebayor due back in a week or two and it just makes me wonder could Arshavin be the man to link all this together and finally bring silverware to the Emirates?

If Arshavin continues to produce the displays he has so far then there is no doubt we are going to create more chances and break down teams easier than we have in the past, but the real test will be when we come up against one of the big teams to see if he can handle the attention he will get from the likes of Vidic and Terry but I don’t think the Russian international will care who he is playing against and will continue to torment.

The only regret I have about Arshavin is that we didn’t sign him sooner. He would have been a great help earlier in the season and it would have been great to see him play in this seasons Champions League for us.

This is the first piece from me, Sandy. I might drop in a piece or two from time to time. Let me know what you think.

Thanks for reading,
Sandy

Newcastle 1-3 Arsenal – 21/03/09 – (Premier League) 22 March, 2009

With Chelsea and United both losing yesterday afternoon we had a rare opportunity to shuffle a bit closer to the top when we took on Newcastle. This game was already going to be a big occasion but even though it’s a long shot I was quite excited at the chance of catching up with the top three. And with Aston Villa playing at Anfield at 4 o’clock today there will be even more points dropped by someone.

So we lined up yesterday knowing a win would put us in a strong position. It was the team I expected with Arshavin and Nasri on the wings, Diaby partnering Denilson in the middle and van Persie with Bendtner up front.

The game got into full speed right from kick off and it was the home side making the most of it. We had a few chances but you have to say Newcastle were looking the most dangerous. They had a shout for a penalty after quarter of an hour when Nasri’s pressure made Damien Duff go to ground but it was a bit soft. However four minutes later they did get that penalty kick when Almunia spilled the ball and bundled over Ryan Taylor trying to get it back. Again it was a bit soft but Mark Halsey pointed to the spot.

Martins stepped up to try give Newcastle the early lead. He shot low to his right but Almunia guessed correctly and held it. Great save. I bet the penalty shoot out in Rome has done his confidence a world of good.

We so nearly took the ball up the other end and added to Newcastle’s frustration of missing the penalty. A great combination between Bendtner, van Persie and Arshavin saw the Russian with a clear shot on goal about 8 yards out. He looked certain to score but for a sliding challenge from Steven Taylor blocking the shot.

The game was very open now. Although Newcastle were probably creating more, our chances were a lot more clear-cut and we probably should’ve finished them.

Arshavin almost added another spectacular goal to his account. He brushed off Taylor running towards goal and lashed a 30-yard screamer towards Harper’s net. He was beaten but the ball just brushed off the top of the bar. What a goal it would’ve been though. So soon into the game and Arshavin’s contribution had already been outstanding. I know I keep saying it but he seems to be getting better by the game and a player really suited to out style of play. As time goes on I’m starting to think he’s the best player at the club…

We had another load of close calls down our end which we managed to get away one way or another. Clichy was having a good defensive game and had to make the last man challenge on more than one occasion and Almunia was obviously in no mood for conceding after that penalty save.

Just before half time we had two great chances to score. The first was from a Nasri long ball/cross that van Persie took down expertly but his one-on-one shot was saved by an outstretched arm. The second came when Collicini slipped and Bendtner went clear in the right of the box, he chose to square to van Persie who’s shot destined for the back of the net was once again blocked by Steven Taylor.

Half time came and it was incredibly 0-0… 3-3 would’ve been more like it.

The second half continued as the first half ended and it was surely a matter of time before the goals started coming. In the end it took until the 57th minute when Nicklas Bendtner opened the scoring. Arshavin swung in an excellent free kick from the left and Bendtner rose above everyone else heading it backwards it make it 1-0. A perfect set piece.

Finally we had broken the Newcastle defense! Maybe this was on our minds a bit too much as a few seconds later they had made it 1-1…

From kick off they spread it wide to the left and a long ball was put in to the edge of the box. We should’ve had it covered but two really unlucky slips of the ball allowed Martins a free shot at goal and he put it low past Almunia.

Our lead had lasted just a matter of seconds and we were back to square one. We would need to show mental strength to get back on top.

And so we did. 5 minutes later Diaby latched onto van Persie’s ball putting him straight through the middle of the defense and lashed at goal high past Harper retaking the lead for Arsenal. Diaby proving again that he does know what he’s doing in front of goal.

This all happened whilst Steven Taylor was on the side of the pitch injured. Ha-fucking-ha. I hope he’s gutted that the goal was all his fault, fucking-cheating-diving-handball-Arshavin elbowing- ugly-midget-cunt.

2-1 and from here I knew we would take it. Newcastle spirits had been raised getting it back to 1-1 but that was shattered with us scoring the second.

Three minutes later van Persie’s touch was enough to put Nasri through on the right side of the box and he finished low inside the near post. Great goal, good finish, 3-1 Arsenal, game over.

The rest of the game was spent attacking their goal and they did very well to keep it down to three goals. van Persie had a great chance when Clichy put him through. He tried to take a touch around Harper but the ‘keeper did well and saved it.

Diaby had a chance to grab a second in injury time. He came in from the left and smashed a ball across goal but it came off the other post. A great shot, he must’ve had the taste for goals yesterday.

St. James’ Park was fucking loud yesterday but all you could hear at the final whistle were the traveling Gooners. These aren’t great times for the Toon Army, they now sit firmly in the relegation zone and with a tough set of fixtures coming up. I would say I hope they stay up, but I don’t. It would be strange seeing them go down but the way they played yesterday and the dirty tactics they used lost all sympathy I have for them. The same can be said for Blackburn, I hope those dirty fuckers go down too.

Well that’s it for a bit then, the players go off on international duty in the week and we don’t play again until the 4th April, that’s at home against Man City.

Just before I go there was a bit of good news on Theo Walcott’s injury, it’s not as bad as first anticipated and he shouldn’t be out for too long. With the players off with their countries now anyway hopefully he won’t miss much of Arsenal’s action.

Alright then, I’ll leave you to enjoy your Sunday. Thanks for reading.

Villarreal reaction and Newcastle preview 20 March, 2009

So it’s Villarreal. I think we all have strong memories of them – the Semi Finals in 2006 coming straight back to me with the draw. It also means a return to Arsenal for Robert Pires who is looking forward to the game. The first leg is away on 7th April with the return leg at Ashburton Grove on the 15th April. It’s going to be a massive tie, as will all the others:

Villarreal v Arsenal
Manchester United v FC Porto
Liverpool v Chelsea
Barcelona v Bayern Munich

The draw also told us that we will play the winners of United vs. Porto in the semi finals with the home leg 2nd. We can’t think about that until we get past Villarreal but we now know our possible route to the final. Wenger has refused to admit we are favorites saying it’s going to be a proper cup tie and anyone can win this competition from here.

Well it’s gonna be a cracking game but we’ll think about it more in a couple of weeks – first up we have an important league game to think about.

We play Newcastle tomorrow in the late kick off and it’s a chance to open a three-point gap on Villa who play Liverpool on Sunday. Newcastle are a struggling team right in the relegation mix. They’re never an easy team to beat though. They’ve taken a very ‘physical’ approach this season similar to what we say against Blackburn a few games ago. Kevin Nolan is back from suspension after a terrible challenge, I very much doubt the ban has taught him any lessons. However Barton, Viduka and Gonzalez are all out for them.

As for our team news there’s some good news and some bad news – Eduardo and Alumina are fit but Walcott has picked up a fresh injury. He did his knee in today and we will hear the extent of the problem soon but it’s such shame so soon after he’s come back. Wenger’s hoping it’s nothing too bad:

Walcott got injured today in training. We have to test it, he has a scan on his knee today. We are surprised and worried. He was in very good form coming back and that is very bad news for us and for England. For the rest of the season might be too long, but he’s out of tomorrow’s squad and he could be out of the England squad.

He locked his knee so it could be a cartilage problem. He did it walking back from training. He was fully normal during training but maybe it only came out when he stopped. We have to see how he responds today and I hope it’s not really serious.”

Sounds quite concerning from that quote. I’m sure we’ll hear how bad it is over the weekend.

So with all that in mind here’s how I see us lining up:

Almunia
Sagna – Toure (c) – Gallas – Clichy
Arshavin – Diaby – Denilson – Nasri
Bendtner – van Persie

I’m not sure how fit Eduardo is so I’ve guess he could be on the bench for this one. Bendtner’s got a bit of stick recently but I think he has been quite dangerous but just has to work on his shooting; I wouldn’t be upset to see him start tomorrow.

I think we’ll see the Toure and Gallas partnership to return to defense for a bit of pace; we’ll have Martins and Owen to deal with tomorrow and they wont make themselves easy to defend.

Looking at the league positions we really should be winning this game. Will Villa playing on the Sunday this is a great chance to put some pressure on them and start opening a gap. Liverpool are full of confidence after beating Man United and Real Madrid so convincingly and if we’re not 3 points clear of Villa by Sunday night I will be a bit shocked.

As I said earlier, Newcastle aren’t going to make it easy. We need to prove out class and make it a comfortable win. An early goal will help that; we might struggle if we have to leave it late again.

Well that’s about all I have to say ahead of tomorrow. Enjoy the game, it’s live on Setanta over here in England, not sure about everyone else!

Thanks for reading.

News catch-up… 19 March, 2009

First off, I’m sorry about the site being so quiet recently, I’ve had loads to do for this week but I’m all sorted now so it’s back to 100% full service.

Since we last spoke we progressed through to the Semi Finals of the FA Cup and have Wembley to look forward to. It wasn’t easy though, Hull opened the scoring early after a massive deflection and it wasn’t until the 74th and 84th minutes we completed the 2-1 win – match report here. It was a nerve destroying game to sit though but extreme relief that we completed the job in the end.

Gallas’ winner was a dubious one, he looked a yard offside so of course Hull will be upset but 1. We could do with some luck. And, 2. I don’t care.

They did not take the loss well though and the big talking point from Tuesday night has been the event’s post game. Phil Brown accused Cesc Fabregas of spitting at their assistant manager down the tunnel. Cesc has denied these allegations but Phil Brown is sticking to his word. Obviously I’m fully behind Cesc and think Phil Brown is a total cunt and fucking liar. I could write you another long piece on the whole saga but Brown’s pettiness isn’t even worth your time. I’m sure you’ve read a lot about it the past few days but I suggest you read this great piece if you haven’t already.

It’s over now and that’s that. Hull are meant to be reporting it to the FA or whatever and with no evidence other than what they said they can go fucked. And although completely unrelated, this made me smile today.

Cesc is over it and is keen to talk about football. He’s been saying how the team and fans have changed their mood and are really excited about where the season is going. He’s right, I think we’re all feeling much better about things now – we’re getting to the business end of the season.

We’re also getting close to full fitness. Almunia should be fit for Saturday’s game at Newcastle and so is Silvestre but I doubt he will be involved. Eduardo & Cesc went back in training today but won’t be fit for Saturday, Adebayor is also out of the weekend’s game. However we should see all of those three back after the International break with Rosicky set to follow shortly after. We’re getting so close to having a fully fit squad… cue the injuries then as players go away with their countries next week.

Tomorrow morning is the draw for the quarter finals (and semi finals) of the Champions League. We’ve got a 43% chance of being draw against an English side with Chelsea, Liverpool and Man United all still involved. The other possible draws are Bayern Munich, Porto, Villarreal or Barcelona. There isn’t really a preferred draw in there; they’re all good teams. I guess Porto or Villarreal might be seen as an easier tie than Man United or Barcelona but it doesn’t really matter. I’d be up for a trip to Barcelona in the quarter finals…we’re going to have to play the big teams at some point and there’s nothing better for a confidence boost than beating a top side.

Well we’ll see who we get and see what Wenger has to say about it and Saturday’s game in tomorrow afternoon’s press conference and then I’ll write something on here. Speak to you tomorrow night then, thanks for reading.

Hull Preview: Wembley awaits 17 March, 2009

It’s getting serious now. Tonight is the quarter final of the FA Cup with the winner to play Chelsea in the semi final at Wembley. This is a massive, massive game for both sides. Hull will be well up for it – they have got a great chance to earn a big day out at Wembley. For us it’s our first chance to play at the newly built stadium and we have to show that we want to be there.

Hull are a team that we should cruise past. However they have proved this season they cause a shock or two. I remember too well the last time they visited Ashburton Grove… Another one of them is unacceptable and I have faith that we can put things right this time around.

The main team news ahead of tonight’s game is the unavailability of Andrey Arshavin who has a cut foot. He picked up the nasty injury in the first half against Blackburn and is a serious doubt for tonight. The player himself is not confident he will make it tonight despite Wenger saying he is ‘desperate’ to play. Arsene explains his injury and the other rotations:

“Arshavin had eight stitches in his foot but he is still in the squad. We will make a decision tomorrow (Tuesday). He is desperate to be involved. He just wants to play. He couldn’t practice today but we’ll assess him tomorrow morning.

Almunia is out – he would not have played anyway but he is a doubt for Saturday. Also Kieran Gibbs will play tomorrow night, Clichy is completely rested. Aaron Ramsey is not in the squad too. At the moment he is growing in stature and a bit tired so we will rest him. Apart from that everybody is in.”

After Arshavin’s comments to the Russian press I doubt he’ll play. Arsene says he’ll be in the squad whatever happens so it can’t be that bad. I expect he will only be on the bench incase it’s not going to plan.

van Persie was rested at the weekend so he’ll start, he could be joined by Vela who is also fresh to play however I think it’ll be Bendtner again. I know some of you weren’t happy with him at the weekend but he actually had a good game – his finishing was just not good enough. I’ve got no doubt that he can sort that out. I’m not sure the state of Eduardo, he picked up an injury last week in Rome but there’s nothing official stating his fitness.

Gallas also sat out on Saturday so I expect to see him involved, probably alongside Djourou. Also, I think Song will make way for Diaby who only played the final 10 minutes at the weekend.

We’re lucky to have quite a few options now. And with Adebayor, Fabregas then Rosicky to return after the international break we’re going to be spoilt for choice.

This is what I reckon for tonight:

Fabianski
Sagna – Djourou – Gallas – Gibbs
Eboue – Denilson – Diaby – Nasri
Bendtner – van Persie (c)

There’s also Walcott who would play on the wings or up front, he played 80 minutes at the weekend so maybe he will be used off the bench alongside Arshavin to liven things up.

Whoever we put out should be enough to beat Hull. When we played them at home earlier in the season they were the in-form side and going on a giant-killing spree. Now they find themselves down the table fighting just to stay up.

They will do everything tonight to try put their form behind them and make it to Wembley. Their fans will do all they can too with their larger away section of support. I hope our fans going tonight make some noise in response, it has sounded pretty quiet recently on occasions and it can’t be that inspiring for the team. So I’m asking you, sing up for The Arsenal!

I wish I could be going tonight, the excitement of playing at Wembley again has me already buzzing. I’ll be back to the pub again for this one killing two birds with one stone and having a Guinness or five for St. Patrick’s Day. We’re live on Setanta for those watching in the UK and it’s a 7.45pm kick off.

That about all I have to say about tonight. Enjoy the game.

She wore, she wore – She wore the yellow ribbon!

Some good news and some not so good news… 16 March, 2009

The good news is – WE’RE FOURTH! Not exactly something a team of our potential should be jumping around shouting about but a couple of weeks ago it was looking like Villa were going to take an 8 point lead ahead. We have shown how quickly things can change in football and we find ourselves sitting in the last Champions League spot at the close of play this weekend. It’s all gone wrong for Villa, from being the most in-form and lucky team in the league they have thrown away a valuable lead.

We’re now level on points and ahead on goal difference. Their next three games are Liverpool, United then Everton. Ours are Newcastle, City then Wigan. Hopefully we can start looking up the table now rather than worry about 5th place.

The piece of bad news I have for you today is that Tomas Rosicky has suffered another set-back. It’s nothing major, just another week to add to his recovery time but it is still frustrating. He was due to be back in full training next week but Wenger has confirmed that it will be a couple of weeks now. You have to expect these things though, Eduardo has shown us how stop-start a return from a long period out can be and I’m expecting Tomas to be exactly the same.

I’m not expecting anything from him this season really. It would be nice to see him get a few games but I think the big bonus would for him just to make a nice cameo at the end of the season to find his feet so he can be raring to go for the 09/10 campaign. It’ll be another month or so until he can think about first team football but we’re just going to have to be patient with him.

Happy Birthday to Theo Walcott today, he is officially no longer a teenager. Arsene Wenger has been talking about how much he has changed as a player in the last year and how he continues to improve. He is still a really exciting player and one that does seem to be gradually getting better. I know Wenger plans for him to eventually become an out an out striker, now he’s back from injury I hope we get to see a bit more of the in the season run-in.

Le Boss has also been talking up Andrey Arshavin. The Russian got his first goal for Arsenal at the weekend and what a goal it was. Reminded me of Kanu’s strike again Chelsea going along the byline before putting it in the roof of the net with no angle to play with at all. He’s getting better by the game and is looking well worth the money we paid for him. Keep up the good work Andrey!

It was a dirty game once again at the weekend so no surprises from Sam Allardyce. One of the worst challenges was when Almunia came out to clear to ball and El-Hadji Diouf came in with no intent to play the ball crashing into Manuel’s standing foot. He was so lucky not to have broken anything in that challenge and Diouf was fucking lucky to stay on the pitch. Wenger has been talking about it and is impressed that Almunia just got up and carried on with the game. Arsene said that had that been Jens Lehmann on the end of that challenge: “I think he would’ve headbutted him”. I think we’re all in agreement on that one.

That’s it for today then. We play Hull tomorrow night so I’ll have to get a preview up between now and then, I have to go and do some work – torture with the sun outside and the beach a mile away down the road…

Speak to you soon then, thanks for reading.

Blackburn Preview: Heavy legs must be ignored 13 March, 2009

The drama of the 7-6 penalty win in Rome is over now and we must concentrate on securing Champions League Qualification for next year. However the 120 minutes of football on Wednesday night could affect our game tomorrow. Some players will have reacted better than others but I think it’s fair to say we wont be 100% fully fit.

Eduardo is the only casualty from midweek, he picked up a groin problem in the first half of extra time. It doesn’t sound too serious but it will certainly put him out of tomorrow’s game. Arsene said he is not surprised by these little niggles Eduardo keeps picking up and understands that it is purely down to the lack of football this past year.

Andrey Arshavin is available again though so he will come into the squad in place of Eddy. I’m expecting the Russian to start, as one of players with fresh-legs. Song, Djourou, Gibbs and Vela also sat out Wednesday night’s game so they might be options if one or two aren’t fully recovered from the week.

Arsene says that he will have to make a late decision on the team selection. Sagna, Gallas, Toure, Clichy, Denilson, Diaby, Nasri and van Persie all played the full 120 minutes on Wednesday so I’m expecting maybe some of them to take a rest tomorrow. Le Boss has given no indication who he might rotate other than Eduardo so I can’t give you any news on that, only speculation.

Theo Walcott only played 45 minutes in the week so he could be an option to come in. He hasn’t started for four months and Wenger is pleased to have him back. He described him as “quite fit” so I’m not sure whether he will be given a start tomorrow; It would be great to see him though and a good chance to rest Nasri.

Here’s my guess at the team then:

Almunia
Sagna – Toure (c) – Gallas – Clichy
Walcott – Denilson – Song – Arshavin
Bendtner – van Persie

Maybe van Persie will be feeling the effects of Wednesday meaning Arshavin could get to play second striker again or maybe Vela would come in? Or if any of the defence are not fully fit then we always have Djourou, Song and Gibbs who have shown they are more than capable. We’ll see tomorrow just who is fresh enough to play.

Whatever happens, there will definitely be players out there that played the full two hours on Wednesday and they will have to find their extra reserves tomorrow. They might have some really heavy legs, especially towards the end of tomorrow’s game but they need to dig deep and push through it. We are generally a very fit squad so I’m not too worried about it really.

As for Blackburn, well they played on Wednesday too. Their best player, Roque Santa Cruz out which is a bonus for us. Also Pedersen is a doubt for them. It doesn’t really matter who they field though, it doesn’t matter what team is but if Sam Allardyce is the manager you know what you’re getting. I doubt Blackburn will be coming tomorrow to play pretty football, Allardyce usually sends out a team to come and kick us and it wouldn’t surprise me if they do it again. We just need to get on with our own game and not let it get to us.

It’s a 3 o’clock kick off again tomorrow so no TV I’m afraid. Guess it’s an internet stream for me then. If I find anything decent I tend to post it up for those following me on twitter – I know it has sorted a few people out before. If you’re not following me already my page is twitter.com/the_cannon and if you haven’t got twitter already it’s probably worth you signing up for.

Well that’s if for today then. Have a good weekend, speak to you soon.

Roma Preview: Selection headache 10 March, 2009

We find ourselves in the odd position tomorrow of having almost too many players to choose from. With Walcott, Eduardo and Toure all back plus with others playing well recently Wenger’s really got to have a think about the team he selects. Usually our ‘selection headaches’ are down to countless injuries, we now find ourselves the other end of the scale with still Fabregas, Rosicky and Adebayor to return, it’s starting to look promising!

At the back we have a choice of three for the two centre back spots. Toure is fit after sitting out Sunday’s game, I’m expecting him to come in alongside Gallas. I think Djourou will be on the bench for this one and Wenger will go for experience.

In midfield, we don’t have Arshavin unfortunately but Nasri is back and we are boosted by some good performances on Sunday. On the other flank we can play Walcott, Eboue, Vela, Diaby, Denilson or even Bendtner; I’m guessing it’ll be Eboue though, I don’t think Theo will be given a start so early into his return. Denilson was rested at the weekend so I’m expecting him to start in the middle, Alex Song had a great game on Sunday so he will feel like he deserves to play.

Up front van Persie is pretty fresh after missing out at West Brom and only playing quarter of an hour on Sunday. Not sure who’ll partner him though, I’d like to think it’s going to be Eduardo because he’s been doing really well. Could be Bendtner though, he hasn’t done too badly himself.

So with all that said, here’s my guess at the team:

Almunia
Sagna – Toure (c) – Gallas – Clichy
Eboue – Song – Denilson – Nasri
Eduardo – van Persie

Whoever does end up being picked will have to be well up for this game. Roma will be on top form to try make it to the quarter finals. They have an extra incentive this year with the final in their home town. We go there with a 1-0 lead, better than nothing but they will feel like they can overcome that. However if we were to score then Roma would need to score three against a defense that has only conceded three goals in their last 12 games.

I’m feeling confident. I just think we’re going to do it. I’m not sure how, even if Roma do score first, I think we have enough to take the game to them. It’s definitely going to be a good game, I just can’t wait for it to start! I really don’t know what else to say…on knockout night’s like this anything can happen – it depends on a bit of luck, a bit of who is the most up for it most and maybe just one piece of skill to settle it.

Thanks for reading, enjoy the game.

Arsenal 3-0 Burnley – 08/03/09 – FA Cup 9 March, 2009

One quarter final secured, another one to go. Yesterday’s 3-0 win over Burnley was the perfect warm up to the massive game in Rome on Wednesday night. We rested one or two names but the team we put out was far superior to the Championship side erasing all memory of the Carling Cup game earlier this season.

Arshavin wasn’t rested as I thought he might, his fast track to fitness continued with another good 90 minute performance. Nasri did get a break though so Eboue came in on the other wing. Diaby and Song made up the midfield who all had games to remember. Up front Eduardo returned captaining the side, he was partnered by Carlos Vela.

We started the game well; we were getting forward and putting Burnley in danger. If it weren’t for a few good last-man tackles and work from the ‘keeper we could’ve been opened the scoring very early on.

We didn’t have to wait that long for the first goal though. After 25 minutes Arshavin put Vela through who nutmegged the last man, shrugged off the chasing back defense and chipped the ‘keeper. What a great goal.

We were only half an hour into the game but I could pretty much tell that was game over at just 1-0. The way we had been attacking and the confidence we were playing with I just didn’t see any other result.

However, Burnley did get a great chance just before half time. They had a corner from the left which Fabianski came to claim at the near post. Diaby was unaware of this and his glancing header took it away from the goalie and into the box. We managed to get the ball clear but it was a heart in the mouth moment with an empty net and a crowded box of players. Just after that Eboue went through on goal but his shot was saved.

So 1-0 at half time, pleased to be leading but it could’ve been more. I had no doubt that we would score more in the second half though.

In fact it only took 6 minutes for us to double our lead. Song picked up the ball on the left and put a beautiful ball forward to Eduardo near the back post. Eddy lost his marker and met the ball with the outside of his left foot completely fooling the ‘keeper and volleying into the opposite corner of the net with one sweet touch. One of those goals you never forget, something Dennis Bergkamp would’ve been proud of.

That makes it three in two since Eduardo’s return plus many more chances and all-round performances. Arsene Wenger has been talking about Eduardo’s form saying it is a surprise he’s playing so well so soon into his return. Realistically you wouldn’t expect him to get back scoring so quickly but it’s like he never left.

At 2-0 we could relax a little and Wenger decided to call it a day with Vela, Diaby then Eduardo. All of them can be really pleased with their performances yesterday and will be looking to get a game out in Rome. Those three were replaced by van Persie, Ramsey and Theo Walcott made his return from injury.

He almost scored soon into his cameo, going through on goal but his effort was blocked. With 8 minutes to go he and van Persie combined and scored a well worked goal but it was wrongly ruled out for offside.

A couple of minutes later we did get that third goal. Alex Song’s back heel setting Eboue up who smashed it low into the far corner. One of the unlikely combinations for a goal like that but it summed up a great game for both of them.

So 3-0 it finished. Burnley did have a couple of chances but you have to say we we’re (literally, I know) in a different league to them. We played really well and should’ve scored more, however after that run of recent 0-0′s I’m just glad we’ve started scoring again.

We face Hull at home in the next round at on St. Patrick’s Day setting up a Wembley semi final against Chelsea for the winner. It’s starting to get interesting.

Thanks for reading.

Burnley Preview & Competition Winner 7 March, 2009

I’ve just realised that I completely forgot to announce the winner of the Arsenal TV Online competition earlier the week. Don’t worry I still have all the emails and don’t worry no entries were accepted after the deadline. The winner chosen at random was Mike Kenna, well done to you, you win a 6 month subscription to Arsenal TV Online.

Right then, Burnley tomorrow in the 5th round of the FA Cup. It seems like every game we play at the moment is a really important one and so is this. This is a competition we do have a chance of winning so we have to put ourselves in with the best chance. If we can get past Burnley tomorrow Hull await us in the quarter finals and then after that anything can happen. United and Chelsea will be in the Wembley semis, so too will one of Everton and ‘Boro who also play tomorrow. It’s not going to be easy to lift the cup but we can give it a good shot.

Burnley knocked us out of the Carling Cup earlier this season but that was a very different game to tomorrow’s, we were playing our reserves that night at Turf Moor but tomorrow it will be pretty much as good as we can field.

Walcott and Eduardo should be back in the squad tomorrow and Wenger hinted that we could see Theo at some point. I’m not expecting to either to start though. As for those two we have no one else returning; Cesc is back in training but we wont see him for another four weeks.

Almunia will be rested and I have a feeling so will Arshavin. He said last weekend he was absolutely exhausted after his 90 minutes so I was surprised to see him play another full match this week vs. West Brom. Obviously Andrey would be one of the first names on the team sheet for tomorrow but I’m wondering if another start is going to be too much for him. We’ll find out tomorrow.

Toure is injured; it’s nothing too serious though and will be back for Roma. Wenger hinted that he would probably be ok to play tomorrow but will not risk it seeing as Gallas was rested on Tuesday. van Persie was also given a break this week so he is fresh and good to go for tomorrow. I suspect he will be joined by Bendtner who is on a decent run of form.

Here’s my guess at the team:

Fabianski
Sagna – Djourou -Gallas – Clichy
Nasri – Song – Denilson – Diaby
Bendtner – van Persie (c)

If Arshavin is ok to play then one of Song, Diaby or Bendtner will come out of that team with the others shuffling around. As I said, I’m not sure whether the Russian will be rested or not, it’s just a hunch.

This week Arsene has been talking up the quality of Championship football. However this doesn’t change a thing and there is no excuse for not beating a lower league team. We need to avoid another replay too, the last thing we need is another fixture. Another West Brom-type performance would do very nicely – if we can see this one off by half time that’d be perfect.

An early goal would really help, it opens the game up for us and we can play our own game. I don’t want to see us desperately pushing for a goal in the final 10 minutes.

Burnley aren’t going to be easy to beat though. They might be concentrating on their promotion hopes but they will be really up for this game. Tomorrow we’re going to have to prove our superiority and class to send us through to the quarter finals.

Don’t forget it’s an early kick off tomorrow, we get underway at 1.30pm and it’s live on Setanta 1 over here in the UK. I’m going to a bar down here with a couple of mates and I’m really up for this game now, come on you Gunners!

Thanks for reading.

Cesc & Wenger rumours + Walcott & Eduardo back 5 March, 2009

Today the Daily Mail printed this story with quotes from Cesc saying he could follow Wenger out the door if we was to leave. This coming off the back of rumours linking Wenger to Man City. It all sounds a bit ridiculous to be honest, I mean it is plausible but why has this come up right now? To me it looks like a made up story to sell a couple of papers on a slow Thursday.

The Mail has quoted Cesc as saying he would have to consider his future if Arsene left and that he is the main reason behind him staying at Arsenal. I know they have a good relationship with each other but I just don’t see Cesc saying this.

Arsene responded to these stories in today’s press conference:

“I have never allowed anyone to question my commitment to this club, in the good and in the bad times, that has not changed in my mind. You have told me I am on their wanted list, I do not know if that is true or not. It is certainly not true because they have a very good manager in Mark Hughes. He is doing a good job. They have to keep confidence in him.

On my side, I am contracted [with Arsenal] until 2011 and until 2011 I do not envisage to go anywhere else.”

Nothing more than I expected him to say really. He also spoke about Cesc following him out the door when he leaves:

I hope his future will last longer than mine because I think he can still be here in 10 years. He should be one of the bases of this club. I think the Club should be built around personalities like Cesc and that’s why I hope he will still be here.

He was born in 1987 and he is 22 years old in 2009 and at 32 he will still play.”

When I think about the future of this club, I don’t see Fabregas sticking around forever. I think everyone knows he might leave for Spain one day and I think we will all take it quite well because he has always said it was something he wanted to do and he has been a great servant to us. I’m certain Wenger will be with us until 2011, unless something goes horribly wrong. Whether Cesc is still here come that date only time will tell.

Walcott and Eduardo are back in the squad for Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Burnley. Wenger isn’t sure yet whether they will start but says they are ready to return to the squad. He also said that Toure could make it but will probably not risk it and play Gallas and Djourou.

The manager is looking forward to having Theo back. He is a player we have really missed, we could’ve done with his creative flair and pace recently. He’s been out since November after picking up a shoulder problem with England. It was such a shame when he was ruled out after that injury but I’m glad he’s back now to help the season run-in. He’s not going to simply walk back into the team though, with Nasri and Arshavin out wide and van Persie, Eduardo and the in-form Bendtner up front he’s going to have his work cut out.

Andrey Arshavin’s been talking about English football saying it is a lot more difficult than it looked on the television in Russia. He’s also said that he wants to score soon but is more concentrated in getting us qualified for the Champions League. I’m sure that goal will come, he’s getting closer and closer to his first for Arsenal with every game and I bet it’ll be a great goal too.

Ok well that’s it for tonight. Our reserves are playing in the youth cup tonight at White Hart Lane, it’s live over on Setanta if you have it. Just thought I’d let you know.

Alright then, thanks for reading.

West Brom 1-3 Arsenal – 03/03/09 – (Premier League) 4 March, 2009

Thank god for that. The incredibly frustrating and depressing run of 0-0′s is over and things are looking slightly more positive. That win took us 3 points off Villa and as I type City are 1-0 up against them, which would be a great result. From Villa almost having 4th in the bag in the weekend we’re now looking in a really strong position.

We started with a bit of an irregular team, van Persie was rested and it was Bendtner and Arshavin up top. It was something we haven’t seen before and it really worked, both players were well up for it and both were a big threat in front of goal.

We ended our run after just four minutes when a Bendtner shot went through the crowd and into the back of the net. A great start.

However just 2 minutes later we had conceded a sloppy goal. We allowed West Brom to win a free kick in a decent position and a low shot went straight through the ball and into the bottom corner.

Bit of a disappointment and the way things have been going lately I was worried we might crumble. The home side had a decent spell following the equalizer. We soon picked up our heads and were in control of the game.

We re-took to lead after 38 minutes. Arshavin took a free kick from the left and Toure met it at the near post with his head. A perfect ball from Arshavin and a good run from Toure to set up an easy header.

Just before the break we opened a two goal lead thanks to Nicklas Bendtner. Toure put him through down the right side of the area, The Dane took a great touch with his thigh to bring it down and then an even better finish inside the opposite post to make it 3-1.

3 goals in the first half was a great response to all the goalless draws. The early goal always helps our game, I think maybe that gave us that extra bit of confidence.

At half time Toure was replaced by Diaby and Song dropped back into defense. Wenger confirmed after the game that Toure has picked up a calf problem and that they would find out the extent of it today, heard no news yet but I’m sure we will know by tomorrow.

We weren’t happy with just the 3 goals and we started the second half with a bit of urgency and went for the big win.

Bendtner came so close to completing his first Arsenal hat trick, a couple of decent saves and a shot hitting the post after a run through the defense stopping him. Andrey Arshavin also came really close to his first goal, he looked lively again last night and put in a great 90 minute performance – he’s looking better and better every game.

This carried on pretty much for the rest of the game. Diaby and Eboue both had decent chances too.

It was a shame that we couldn’t add to the lead but I was just happy we had managed to score again.

It finished up 3-1 and a good result for the Arsenal. Made even better by the news that Man City have just beaten Villa 2-0. From being pretty down about our chances this weekend I’m now feeling really optimistic about things.

We’re now three points off 4th place and Aston Villa’s next four games are Spurs, Liverpool, United then Everton. Ours are Blackburn, Newcastle, City and Wigan. With a bit of luck we could find ourselves above Villa especially with Walcott, Adebayor, Eduardo, Fabregas and Rosicky to come back during that period.

Before then we’ve got Burnley on Sunday and Roma next week.

It’s starting to look a little bit brighter isn’t it?

General thoughts & Arsenal TV Competition 2 March, 2009

Sorry about the lack of match report… I didn’t really get to see the game so I don’t feel in a strong enough position to comment; I tired to get it on a stream over the internet but it was awful and kept breaking. Also, I just didn’t know what to say after the game.

It felt like I had just watched up throw away our Champions League spot. After everything I had said in the match preview I was just speechless that we had produced another 0-0.

After the game, I was (along with a lot of other Gooners) almost certain we would not make 4th. With Villa to play Stoke on the Sunday I did not have a lot of faith. However, we did get a mini-miracle. Stoke scored 2 goals in the final few minutes to salvage a 2-2 draw and give us a glimmer of hope.

That means we are six points behind them rather than what we all expected to be eight. If we beat West Brom tomorrow night then that brings us to just three points behind Villa who go to Man City on Wednesday. It all seems a bit better then doesn’t it?

Thanks to Stoke’s last gasp goals our top four finish still isn’t out of the question. I’m going to try and stay positive about it after a weekend of being down in the dumps about it.

We need to really, really get a decent run going immediately. We travel to West Brom tomorrow night and we need to find some goals. I’ll try do a match preview tomorrow if I get a chance early enough but everything that needs to be said is exactly the same as the Fulham preview: We need to stop the 0-0 streak, we need to win, we need to go on a run, we need to pick our heads up, we need to start playing better etc…

The team news is that Gallas is out. He is being rested because of an ankle problem and it will mean the return of Djourou.

I just want to remind you of the Arsenal TV Online competition running at the moment. I’ve been given a free 6 month subscription for me to give away. Here’s the question to win that prize:

1. What year did Ray Parlour leave Arsenal for Middlesbrough? Was it a.) 2002 b.) 2003, or c.)2004

Send your answers and any feedback of ATVO’s coverage to atvonline@the-cannon.com.

You’ve got all of tonight to enter and I’ll announce the winner tomorrow. Good luck.

Ok well I’ll try get something written for you tomorrow ahead of the West Brom game, things are a bit hectic around here at the moment. Thanks for reading.