Daily Bits and Bobs, Match review

Arsene, you must, even if you don't want to! Alexis makes his mark…..

Posted on by rico

Morning all.

You have to love Paul Merson sometimes:

Man Utd have one bad season & they’re out of the Champions League. Arsenal have had a couple and still qualify every year!

We did, but phew, that was tough eh!

Besiktas came to The Emirates and at times, played like the home side and to be honest, what else did we expect? Slaven Bilic, up in the stands last night for his naughtiness during the first tie has been saying all week that his side weren’t heading to London on a sightseeing trip, they were going for a win and his side nearly did just that.

We had a couple of good chances through the game, but then so did they, especially towards the end when Ba headed into side netting and with just a slender 1-0 lead at the time, had that gone in, we would have been out. That’s how close it was.

We weren’t helped by Mathieu Debuchy receiving a second yellow card with fifteen minutes left on the clock either but what came out of that was a truly superb defensive shift put in by Santi Cazorla who I thought had a good game. Jack Wilshere too. He’s had a bit of stick lately but last night he showed glimpses of the player will all know is inside his body, it was a shame his shot went wide, he deserved a goal. Cazorla, Alexis and Oxlade-Chamberlain missed further opportunities to score, the best fell to the latter of the three players and really, he should have done better.

Our only goal came from Alexis and what a night to pop up with it. Debuchy had made a run up the right and fired in a low cross which looked like it was all for nothing but Wilshere had other ideas. He played a one-two with Ozil and as the ball fell for Alexis, Jack left him to it. Talking of Alexis, those legs of his never give up do they, his work rate is immense. Monreal was another who stood out and another who has been criticised by many all too often…

Chile Night in August....
Chile Night in August….

That was enough! Our players ran their legs into the ground last night, well most of them so their commitment can’t really be called into question but, it was very clear that the squad is lacking in a number of areas but then we have being saying that for a while.

Hope of further signings has been hanging on last nights match because without Champions League qualification, Arsene Wenger would no doubt be tempted to carry on through this season with the bare essentials. Well we have now qualified and if he really wants to win this big trophy, or the Premier League, then he really has to secure three signings between now and 11pm on the 1st September.

A big ask in just five, but not an unreasonable one as football is all about winning, not about merely surviving and if we carry on through the season with the squad we have now, we will seriously struggle.

Yesterday we drew Southampton in the Capital One Cup, thankfully it’s a home fixture but regardless, it’ll be tricky.

Who will we get...
Who will we get…

This afternoon we’ll find out who we’ll face in the group stages of the Champions League, the draw takes place at 4.30pm.

Then of course, it’s a trip to Leicester on Sunday followed by an International break….

Come on then Arsene, go and show some intent during the last few days of the transfer window!

You may not want to but you know you have to!

That’s it for another day…..

 

rico

308 thoughts on “Arsene, you must, even if you don't want to! Alexis makes his mark…..”

  1. Nickie says:

    Morning all…

    Thanks for the post Rico.

    Looking at those pots we’ve got to be in with a shout for an easier draw this year

  6. kel says:

    Nice post Rico. . Last yrs group was tough, let’s hope for Basel, Ajax, Maribor… ya know a group utd would have got.. lol

  7. George says:

    I knew you’d like that one Lee…

    I’m sure Europe will be quaking…I’ll add it to this post as well to amuse others

  11. Woody says:

    It’s a nice thought Nickie but we never get the easy draw. You just know already that Liverpool will get an easier draw from pot 3!!

  17. rico says:

    Nickie, Wikki says he’s already signed for us and wears the number 5.. 😉

    I won’t be buying his shirt if he signs, cost too much in lettering…

  19. Hell Raising Devil says:

    Good Morning Munchkins and Chipmunks.

    Good match report Rico. But one thing I do not agree with. Although they played well they only threatened. They did not test Ches. not once. Infact if you look at the stats they did not have a single shot on target. Side nettings, over the bar, wide of the post….yes. but not one shot on target. And if you do not shoot on target then you do not score. unless the team scores own goals.

    George…..that video had me cracking with laughter. Whoever did it is a genius.

  23. BT62 Gooner says:

    Nice post Rico, last nights efforts will be all for nothing, if the squad isn’t strengthened. Good result, on a edgy night.

  31. Luznic says:

    Morning everyone, nice post Rico, Papasthadopolous……..don’t you like that type of signing……….Alonso to Bayern………

  32. southyorkshiregunner says:

    Morning all.
    It was a great game last night.

    Our system is set up to play with a big man up top to hold up the play. The system with Sanchez is very different and as yet players are on different wavelengths, however that WILL come.
    Sanchez is a good player of that there is no doubt. It’s a totally different system, which is good as it gives us an alternative. It’s just a pity re: Giroud.

    The good points were the relationship if you like that Debuchy is forming with Chamberlain. That could really, really prosper and is a ‘big thing’. Don’t underestimate that one.

    Wilshere played well, however – and there is a however, he gives the ball away cheaply and it is no good bombing forward like Paul Gascoigne of old if there is no end product. He got into great positions last night just to fluff the final ball. Unfortunately Ozil is being sacrificed out of his favoured position to accommodate Wilshire. Maybe someone will have a point to make on that.

    Flamini? Now here is tricky one. He is a vociferous individual as re: other players, however he needs to take a look at some of his own play. There was a couple of times last night he reminded me of Alex Song – “I aren’t running for that fcukr.”
    I reckon Chambers would be better placed there if he is as good as Wenger reckons he is in the anchorman role. Whatever, there is no doubt that Chambers is a cracking little player.

    —

    As for Besiktas – They never troubled Szcesny once all night regardless of their pressing, Assume what you will from that.

  34. Luznic says:

    Arsenal, Shaktar, Cska, Malmo but knowing our luck we will probably have Arsenal, PSG, Athletic Bilbao, Roma

  36. Woody says:

    SYG – for me Flamini is not good enough for Arsenal. Yes he shouts at his team and is good at keeping people focused, but there were two occasions I specifically remember last night where he could have cost us.

    One where he took ages to make a clearance and pretty much gave them the ball in our box. I think he just has those moments that could cost you in big games.

    For me we need Carvalho in there.

  38. southyorkshiregunner says:

    As I’ve said before Woody, I don’t profess to know enough about Carvalho. Maybe he’s good, but coming from the Portuguese league it is a risk … especially given his price tag, the fact that Mourinho doesn’t want him and Veloso is the main man in his position for his national side….

    That could just be me reading between the lines ……

  39. bondex says:

    Good post rico. IMO players mentioned earlier came to the party andshowed great mental strength… we need to fill in the missing areas to complete this “great team” .. a CB,DM and CF will do. Ming not just players from obscure leagues in the world ,i mean capable and competent players.

  40. Nickie says:

    Nice comment SYG. I got that from Flamini too.

    Is it just me but when Flamini makes a slide tackle it’s like his whole body is already on the floor, almost like he’s on a water slide lol his hair getting wet from the blades of grass beneath him. Then his whole body makes contact with the ball, there is no control haha. There’s something about it that makes me chuckle

  41. southyorkshiregunner says:

    Four games gone. no defeats. Keep this up and we’ll do the quadruple. That’s me being positive.

  42. rogerbij says:

    One thing I do like, Wenger doesnt give much away. Now that doesnt mean he gets everything right, but most of the rumours are pure fabrications of ‘interest’. And then BAMM, Wenger makes an offer for Sokratis – noone saw it coming till after it was made. I like that. Its prevents other teams getting too hot on the same leads…

    And it also shows we can cut Wenger some slack about supposed rubbish targets, because it is only the fantasy of writers that create those. Eg yesterday some on here were actually thinking Zigic was being considered.

  43. Woody says:

    I know what you mean SYG, but I have read some good reports. I can’t claim to know too much about him, but when I read or look at alternatives…

    Plus, he must be an upgrade on Flamini if they wanted £30m+ for him. Flamini has never been close to being in that category and apart from anything else, it’s another body in the squad.

    Mourinho may not be after him but thats because he just bought Matic and has Ramires!!! I read that United want him if they don’t get Vidal.

  44. bondex says:

    Guys AW has raised the bar..our fears are in two folds. 1 to buy the players we need. 2. to use those players in their primary positions.
    We don’t want him buying a carvalho for instance and and then play him as a CB.

  45. Nickie says:

    Roger, as it stands it is just paper/journalist talk. As far as we know there could be no bid and it’s complete nonsense. You’re right with Wenger though, very clever at playing people…Including us lol

  46. Ashley says:

    you heard it from Arsene last night , ‘ I bought Sanchez to play as a striker , Theo is also a very good striker , we have Sanogo, Campbell and also Podolski ‘ …. there’s no way he’s buying another striker after that bit of spin is there .. i think he’s still annoyed about buying the ‘fox in the box’ Franny Jeffers so he doesnt want to risk trying to buy another out and out striker in case that happens again 😉 …. In all fairness to Mr W , if we cant get the goals we need from that lot i’ll be very surprised , especially when Theo comes back , what he lacks in other areas of his game he makes up for in some quality finishing at times …. Now Sanchez has his first goal he’ll relax and start firing and now we have qualified the whole team will relax and start to enjoy the season

    I do think that we need a world class dm with a bit of flair tho , i dont think Khedira is the right choice so glad we’re not getting him

    As for Ozil , im stil not convinced ……………..

  47. rogerbij says:

    Exactly Bondex, we want Carvalho as a DM, because we really need a beast of one. Its just a handy fact that he can cover CB in an emergency because he has some experience there, but this is NOT his main function in the team at all.

  48. rogerbij says:

    True Nickie, but I dont think he means to drag us fans along in the rumours, but there’s no other way is there!? I mean we also like very much to cling on to them too. Human optimism eh. Until it gives way to cynicism 😉 Plenty of people on HH are better at just sitting back and taking a wait and see approach than me!

  50. Woody says:

    I quite like a bit of business on deadline day.

    Let’s be honest, if you watch it and Arsenal don’t do anything it’s a bit boring eh!

  51. southyorkshiregunner says:

    I’ve said it loads of times, we do not need a fckng beast.

    —

    Beast.
    1. any nonhuman animal, especially a large, four-footed mammal.
    2. the crude animal nature common to humans and the lower animals: Hunger brought out the beast in him.
    3.a cruel, coarse, filthy, or otherwise beastlike person.

    by beast you mean a great big ugly fckr that will scare the living daylights out of someone before he smashes into them to relieve them of whatever it is they have that he – the beast wants ….

    —

    We want a football player that plays football in the said position and possesses an engine, skill and a brain. A beast does not. A beast shits on the floor and feeds on other mammals. However a man (or footballer) with the skill and a brain can always outwit the fckng beast. Always.

  54. Woody says:

    SYG – I think the term beast is just used for someone with a bit of grit in the tackle.

    For example, Vieira was a beast when he needed to be, but boy could he play!

  55. Woody says:

    Too right Nickie – if we did all our business by now you’d be annoyed on deadline day…

    Not saying I wouldn’t like at least another body in buy now, but remember that supposed trolley dash after the 8-2.

    Well, 2 of those players are now captain and vice captain!! Some trolley dash!

  58. Woody says:

    England = Not bothered.

    It’s boring watching…I love football and watch a lot of it, but whenever I Watch England I am easily distracted.

  63. Woody says:

    Yeah I guess,but it means he now definitely can’t be dropped.

    Let’s be honest, since 2004 he hasn’t played anything like he should have done for England and this basically says it won’t improve. The only way to make him play better is to drop him.

  65. Joaquim Moreira says:

    Like I wrote yestrerday: my favourites are Basel, ajax and Maribor.
    For the second pot, all of the others (and we can’t play with the english teams are dangerous). spaniards, russians,turkeys, italians and germanys (for diferent reasons) are always very complicate.
    Next sunday at 7 p-m Benfica-sporting. Those who never watch Carvalho playing can watch him
    However, if he plays probably stay where he is.

  66. Woody says:

    Haha, it’s actually quite laughable…

    How long ago was it he was shouting abuse at England fans?

    #captainmaterial

  68. rockyrocastle07 says:

    Afternoon all. Well… That was nearly awful last night. The highlight being Goonsters declaration “I almost farted when that went in”. Poetic genius!

  69. Adam says:

    Hi Rocky. I have noticed the Goonster has become that rare combination of poet and philosopher. He does not suffer fools gladly though and I fear that his outspoken rhetoric may result in a suspension soon. 🙂
    I speak as his greatest fan of course.

  70. rockyrocastle07 says:

    Hi Adam. I hope there is no suspension…. He always brings a lot to the table! I too am a big fan!

  71. rockyrocastle07 says:

    Why has Wenger suddenly got a lazy lob for Greek defenders? Is he trying to recoup some of Arsenal’s cash reserves in the form of sales of names on the back of shirts? How much per letter these days?!

  72. Adam says:

    Rocky. Like all great players the Goonster stretches the rules to their limit. He is our greatest weapon against the rise of the remaining delusional AKBs.
    Only Nixon could go to China as only the Goonster could go to Old Hampton Street.

  73. Hell Raising Devil says:

    Goonie is always a Goonie. even when he gets a trolloping he will always remain philosophical about it.

    Without him HH would sort of loose part of its identity. With him commenting we become mutants or develop a sort of multiple personality.

  78. rockyrocastle07 says:

    I always look forward to him having a go at AKB’s. I see he had a little spat with Joe last night…….! Hurry back Stan!!

    Adam – Old Hampton Street would be in disarray if it wasn’t for him. After all, he did come on here yesterday declaring how sore he was…

  80. Hell Raising Devil says:

    On a different note……those pundits, managers and supporters who hide behind the abject failures and lack of development of English players by stating that its because of foreign players that they dont play should bear in mind that Chambers is in the team on his merit. He was a nobody (apologies) when he was at Southampton and he came to AFC…..saw….played and conquered. And at 19 he might be considered undroppable. I just hope he is not burnt out.

    the fact is that he is so composed and astute plus a good attitude (hope he keeps it) and a will to listen and learn backs up what I have been always saying…….if you are good enough you play. English or not.

  81. AndrewH13 says:

    Afternoon Rico and all. Very good post. In Cala D’or for the week. Thought a damper on holiday last night when Debuchy off, but we hung on well. Get moving now AW, we had a bit of fortune for once, Now don’t let it go to waste.

  83. Bob John says:

    Hi all. I think the overwhelming feeling from last night is one of relief. The alternative doesn’t bare thinking about!
    How bad were Sky last night? My god, even the ex-Arsenal players kept banging on about non-penalties and a missed chance! The fact that Chezza only had one save to make in two legs says it all really. Yet it was made to sound like we were lucky! They even said the guy handballed it before Debuchy’s tackle but that didn’t seem to count! Take into account the two joke sendings off and it was a job well done in the end. Sky keep televising us in the hope that they will be there when we lose. This Sunday is a case in point. Tw@ts!!

  84. rico says:

    Afternoon Adam, Rocky, Woody, Andrew and all…

    Soon as the whistle went I was mightily relieved Rocky..

  86. Adam says:

    Devil. Unfortunately, with a capital U, Roy Hodgson was always going to pick Chambers after his performances. The man is far too ordinary to have spotted Callum himself.
    So, we begin a never-ending scenario of pointless friendlies, trips around the world and the inevitable string of major and minor injuries that he will sustain as Roy attempts to squeeze a few more quid out of the FA for himself before the inevitable happens. Why couldn’t he let boys like Callum get settled into his high level career and get his body conditioned and his fitness levels sorted before this really totally predictable event?

  92. Wath says:

    Amazing how Wenger now brings up not making panic buys due to there being five days left in the transfer window yet our need for a central midfielder and centre back goes back to May and longer in regards to the midfielder. He knew TV was leaving months ago so why wasn’t he replaced then….? why the big wait….! He makes a rod for his own back with his lack of actions and his comments for the last few months saying if TV leaves we will buy…! Sorry Arsene you should of bought months ago knowing TV was leaving…! So unprofessional to always be reactive instead of proactive.

  95. potter says:

    Scott , Here is a copy of the message I sent to your friend this afternoon . As you can see I am not a happy bunny and I can’t help feeling that they are just lying to cover their arses. When you see Joseph again let me know how he got on. I cannot see the point in pursuing the argument any further as I don’t think that they are being truthful anyway.

    Joseph although I was promised that all was sorted out I can only apologise for it all going wrong. Did you get to see the game / I have tried to get an answer as to what went wrong this morning and all they will say is that the ticket was not collected. I am not happy about it and will not use that service or lack of it again. Not only did you have to buy a red membership but I lost the money for the game that I could have exchanged. All in all a total disaster and I am sorry that you were mucked around

  102. NashuaGunners says:

    Good Afternoon Rico and All
    Nice Match Report. But I was expecting more goals yesterday, we been the superior side and at home.

    Syg said “Four games gone. no defeats. Keep this up and we’ll do the quadruple. That’s me being positive.”

    Well, I would love to have whatever you had this morning. This squad is a paper weight to face all the competitions we are suppose to challenge for this season. If AW fail to address all the weakest links and then we are hit with another injury (injuries) we cannot even make top 4.

  103. rogerbij says:

    lol Syg, how about a handsome football playing beast, who washes in pearly waters? I think you know what I really mean – Vierra, Yaya Toure mould is really it. Obviously not a thug who cant play, but someone who adds a presence to the midfield, is mobile, and who can play 🙂 Carvahlo fits that.

  105. dublingunner says:

    Afternoon all, Utter relief last night, but got the job done, Ozil,for me is a big worry.he just doesnt look
    happy and his performances are proving he is simply ineffective, when not playing in his central posi,, surely wenger
    must see this, a man of his wisdom. he simply must play im centrally or drop him ,as he is only hindering the team.
    He has done the same to cazorla, rosicky, arshavin, took them from attacking midfielders to wide men. some say he
    ruined arshavins career, and to a lesser extent rosicky,s. Lets hope he,s not doing the same to ozil, who lets not
    forget with Madrid he was shortlisted for the balloon d,or twice.

  107. Bob John says:

    SYG Jorge Mendez is Moronho’s big buddy so can’t see him letting us get Falcao as much as I would like it to be true!

  109. rico says:

    Afternoon Ng, I think we all expected more goals but we had our chances.

    This squad certainly needs additions and all we can do is hope Wenger thinks the same. If he doesn’t, then he’ll reap what he has sown….. Again.

  111. rico says:

    dublin, watching Ozil is heart breaking, a stunning little player if used in the right way and with the right players – I can see he and Alexis forming a great partnership over the coming months though…

  118. Lee says:

    Real have no chance….the lure of playing week in week out with that European powerhouse Sanogo will clinch the deal for us!

  119. southyorkshiregunner says:

    I reckon you’re right, Lee.

    A once in a lifetime opportunity. A bit like copping Ebola

  121. southyorkshiregunner says:

    https://twitter.com/NicoSchira

    This is the Italian journalist that has stated that there is a meeting re: FALCAO and Arsenal in Monte Carlo.

    There is also something re: an agreement between Arsenal and the Belgian centre back Toby Alderweild …. I can’t get it to paste into HH

  123. Hell Raising Devil says:

    Falcao to RM will only mean one thing…..Benzema will have to be transferred.

    AW will never say he will need a striker. It will simply drive the player’s price up

  126. southyorkshiregunner says:

    Who would have thought we would ever lay out £42M on one of the best players in the world last pre-season, Dev? But we did.

    The striker role is now a problem.
    Even though we have Podolski, Campbell and the ‘Stalker’ Wenger knows these players will never form part of our a three-pronged assault for the EPL, CL and FAC honours.
    Podolski was in and out – although I do like him – Campbell is untried, yet he may actually be half decent – Sanogo – I’ve said enough about him – his level is Championship.
    We can’t rely on what we have. We need a proper striker.

  128. ozgunner says:

    syg – yes we do and have for some time in truth – evening all – good post Rico – we got there in the end but will need massive improvement on our seasons start to avoid the defeats racking up to the better sides once again, me thinks

  131. dublingunner says:

    lets hope so rico, it would be a shame for a player of ozil,s talent to get disheartened with the club,

  132. NashuaGunners says:

    Why most believe we have to go oversea to look for another CF, MF and CB? They’re all in the EPL. Enough qualities already. Look in the right teams for the right players.

  133. Nickie says:

    Break the wage structure
    Break the clubs record transfer fee
    Run him into the ground
    Push his confidence to an all time low
    Just shove him out wide

    Wenger on “how to ruin on of the worlds best players”

  136. Nickie says:

    Ozil looks so disinterested during games yet after the game he posts pictures/tweets/status’ like he’s the one who cares most about Arsenal. Difficult person to read

  139. rogerbij says:

    Statement of fact, Ozil played wide for Germany at the World Cup. not saying I prefer him there, just that this is not Wenger ‘killing’ a player. Last season he played just behind Giroud mostly, and I bet he will end up just behind Sanchez too. Slow down everyone. Also, not at all convinced he is not happy -he just doesnt have a Podolski personality! Give him a break already.

  142. Nickie says:

    Ozil is one of my favourite players Roger. I think he frustrates people mainly. We know what he’s capable of but he rarely produces anymore. Also when you look at sanchez’s work ethic it’s second to none. You look at Ozil and it’s almost non-existent. One example of this one in the first half, he was in our area “defending”, the Besiktas player fakes a cross, Ozil flailed a leg out and turned his back while the Besiktas player cut inside. He got away with that one……now you might be thinking that’s not Ozil’s game, I agree…if it’s not Ozil’s game why is he out wide doing what a LM should do?Only Wenger can answer that. I’d prefer Ozil in a free roam role more centrally, not in a position where he has to track, defend, put his body on the line like so many others were yesterday.

  143. Nickie says:

    BT, Oz…

    Those would be the only 2 I could name but i’d rather search abroad. Maybe Benteke but he’s not fit, again, I’d rather search abroad.

  145. dublingunner says:

    I dunno there,s just something not clicking with ozil and arsenal imo, Has he had a man of the match performance yet.? and if not, why not ?. 42 million.

  146. rockyrocastle07 says:

    Rojer – I agree there. Various pros / trainers etc who have worked with Ozil say he is a sensitive person who “needs an arm around him and to be told he is good”. He is very insecure so will always look like he is disinterested. I don’t for one second believe that is the case though. Podolski is the exact opposite. He knows he is good. He exudes confidence, and is a generally happy guy. Horses for courses.

  147. rockyrocastle07 says:

    I am with Rico – when Ozil finally clicks with Sanchez. Ox. Walcott and hopefully our new striker, we will see the assisting machine of old. Bit hard to do that when faced with the task of playing in Bambi on ice Sanogo or Donkey Giroud.

  148. BT62 Gooner says:

    Oz, Remy who they say failed a medical and to be your number1 CF, Bony just think of the fee he’d cost, if we came a knocking, a good CF, hardly world class.

  149. NashuaGunners says:

    Bt62, let us not forget that Ian Wright was bought from Palace, a lower league player, who came in and won the Golden Boot.

  153. Nickie says:

    I just worry what happens when we run out of excuses and Ozil still isn’t playing to potential, what then? lol

  155. rockyrocastle07 says:

    The thing is, I remember reading about Remy’s heart problem YEARS ago. Long before he came to England. I can’t work out why, if I knew about it (because it was in the Sun) the Liverpool medics knew nothing about it? How bad can it have been to have failed the medical? Worse than our own Dorito Headed Kanu’s heart problem?

  156. rockyrocastle07 says:

    BT – Just let him float about wherever he likes. If he assists in a shitload of goals, I wouldn’t care less where he played. Jesus,. I’d let him buff my helm if it meant he supplied the goals / assists that won us the league.

  158. rockyrocastle07 says:

    Thing is Nashua – The game has evolved a hell of a lot since then. Its rare that would happen again.

  160. NashuaGunners says:

    My point was, there are qualities players in the epl. We don’t have to look overseas all the time.

  161. BT62 Gooner says:

    Benteke, not bad, when fit, but think he’s still injured, Jay Rodriguez is he back from injury yet? Would Southampton sell?

  164. southyorkshiregunner says:

    Ian Wright was a great player. A total moron as a pundit as he always has some form of agenda.

    However Wright as a player was always the focal point of the team, the same as MacDonald was. When their form dropped off so did the team – if they weren’t scoring then where would the goals come from?
    Anelka taking his place in the side helped us to our second double. As big as a dick head Anelka was – he played a team game.

    Last year we had only a Plan A
    This year we had a Plan B

    it’s just a pity Plan A has gone to shit due to injury.after three games in.

  167. Bob John says:

    Syg. Mendez is moronho’s agent along with a whole host of Spanish and Portuguese players. When he was at Madrid Moronho signed and favoured players who were on Mendez books to the detriment of those that weren’t. Caused lots of unrest in the dressing room with non-Mendez players being frozen out. The likes of Casillas and Lassana Diarra stood up to The Special Need One though.

  168. Hell Raising Devil says:

    You are right Kev. We would do with a player like him……

    maybe 15 million will do the trick…….

  169. NashuaGunners says:

    20M and + for just Falcao on loan?

    Any of those players I named in the epl, with the right offer, we could get them.

    Falcao, Cavani, etc, they’re a big name players but there is no guaranty they would mustard it in the epl.

    Southampton is a selling club.

  173. rockyrocastle07 says:

    Lee – That website could be the best thing I have ever seen…. Other than the one you emailed a couple of years ago which included a picture of a dog getting hit in the nuts by a tennis ball!! Still laughing about that one now as I type this!!

  177. BT62 Gooner says:

    Just the other day, they we’re quoting 12m for Falcao, Rodriguez is still injured, maybe not back to November, Southampton unlikely to sell now. Then we have thing, for bring in, injured players.

  178. NashuaGunners says:

    Rocky said “Thing is Nashua – The game has evolved a hell of a lot since then. Its rare that would happen again.”

    I agree but why cant we take you on your offer that you offered yesterday?

  180. Joaquim Moreira says:

    rico, Monreal, in my opinion, was played very well yesterday.
    Falcao probably goes to Madrid. Last year he didn’t go but I think was a planning for going in the fist year to Monaco and then to Madrid. He is not a player for Monaco. Moreover, were a few problems (Spain law) with the direct transfer from A. Madrid to R. Madrid. So, that was the provisional solution. Of course, the things can change but I don’t believe. Let see. I’m quite sure he doesn’t stay in Monaco, event they are in the CL.
    If he buy two or three foreign players, we must loan or sell some foreign players too.
    Alderwield was a name in the media yesterday. I don’t like him burt I respect others opinions. He can plays in diferente positions and that is good.
    Good Greek defenders ara usually good but a little “hard to kidneys” and not very faster. But they are good in the one to one and they know how to defend.

  185. allezkev says:

    It doesn’t really matter about the CL draw.

    Arsenal will still end up 2nd in the group and get Barcelona in the knockout stage…

    But Southampton in the League, now that’s what we should focus on as we have a chance of winning the League Cup…

  186. Joaquim Moreira says:

    yes, if we are the second (our normal position…) on the group stage, we play versus Barcelona (the 2th versus the 7th). The order of the teams in the pot.

  188. Joaquim Moreira says:

    And Zigic? Is he in London? 😉
    Alonso (Madrid) – Bayern
    Madrid is interesting in Luis Gustavo

  205. rico says:

    I’m with Kev, matters not who we draw, we won’t win it.. It’s all about how far we can and how much money the club can make…

  209. rico says:

    And that’s where the club let themselves down, if they put as much effort into the squad as they do making money, we’d be PL champions every season…

  215. BT62 Gooner says:

    Rico, i’ll give him another ring later, tried a couple of times, got ans machine..Though did mention it to him, when he dropped of disc, he said it was on the disc.

  217. rico says:

    Thanks Bt, the key code should be on the inside of the box which the disc was in… If not, don’t worry honest, don’t want to mess you around…

  231. dublingunner says:

    In fairness to wenger ,he always said he,d be interested if the right player came along. could they possibly get im for a season, surely not

  233. Rick says:

    Good Evening Rico and the House.
    The u21 team against WBA at the Emms tonight is,
    Ilieve Bellerin O’Conner Ajayi. Ottawill, Coquelin, DIABY Hayden Crowley Akpom Cambell.
    May be Shop window. for Scouts

  238. BT62 Gooner says:

    Rick, Jonkers and Co, seem to have things moving in the right direction, in a short space of time.

  239. Rick says:

    Thats OK Rico Good Night
    Into the 2d half it is now 3-0 Akpom has scored twice.
    Diaby agreed sub at half time.
    Campbell and Crowley very lively.

    It is being stated,( but not official.) Miqual to Norwich in £2Mill deal.

  241. Micko says:

    George 10.54, cracking video earlier, think it might be a spoof though, there again they can’t all be wrong !

    Not a bad draw for us this evening, wouldn’t want to swap with citeh, we just need to hang in there, Giroud will be like a new signing in January, quarter finals here we come !

  242. BT62 Gooner says:

    Nice shades, Micko…not a bad draw at all. Just love it when we get a new signing, in January…

  243. Micko says:

    BT, don’t like to see you taken advantage of, give rico an inch and she’ll take a mile, watch your back buddy.

  245. Scott From Oz says:

    Morning all.
    Forget who we might get…does our heads in.
    Sit back for a few days and enjoy watching our season unfold, or unravel 🙂

  246. Rick says:

    Final score 4-2 .Hattrick for Akpom.
    Campbell very lively made Akpoms 2nd goal.

    I think Coquelin was in the shop window for a move.
    Hayden and Akpom in the England U19 team next week.

    Micko Bt not only is it a good draw for the first team it is for the U19s as well. They play the same teams in the next generation league at the same time as the first team. We are in for some good games.

  247. Micko says:

    Got no reason to lie BT !!!

    Is it just me BT or does Slavin Bilic and Martin Keown look like they were seperated at birth, both seriously scarey looking guys !

    Surprised Debuchy took a little bit of stick today, though him and the Ox were great last night.

  248. Joaquim Moreira says:

    Hard september… 31th Leicester away and we play:
    M.city – (h) – 13th
    Villa – (a) – 20th
    Totts – (h) – 27th
    B.Dortmund (a) – 16th
    Galatasaray (h) – 1/10
    Southampton (h) – 22/09 – League Cup
    and with national teams 3 and 8/09 many players will be cal-up

  249. Micko says:

    Rick, what did you think of the England U19 captain by-passing the U21’s and getting a call up to the full squad today, the future looks bright.

  250. BT62 Gooner says:

    Had forgot about that Rick…good to see Akpom, bangin them in. Do like what i’ve seen of him, the last few years. Hope things are going, well for you.

  251. BT62 Gooner says:

    No problem Micko, met Keown in the street, after i think we lost 4-1 against Chelski, at the Ems. He’s a big unit and a gent, can see the resemblance….

  252. Rick says:

    Micko his future looks very bright .I only hope that the are not rushing him too much. A month ago he was a Soton reserve now in the England full squad, thats some going.

    Thanks for asking BT, I am on the mend but still have another month of treatment, which I can put up with.
    Thats all for tonight night all.

  253. Micko says:

    I was over for that game as well BT, it was pishing down that day, I was front row, might as well have had some-one chucking a bucket of water over me every 2 minutes.

    Over and out.

  254. Scott From Oz says:

    Apparently Crowley scored a cracking free kick, and Akpom banged in a couple of rippers.
    Who needs a new striker 🙂
    Has anyone heard we are chasing Klose??

  264. allezkev says:

    Thanks for the info Rick, maybe Akpom will get a run-out against Southampton?

    I’d like to see Wenger go with 3 or 4 of the best U21’s in that match.
    Bellerin, Hayden, Campbell, it would be a good line-up imo…

    Evening BT, how do you see the CL draw?

  266. allezkev says:

    Miquel to Norwich seems a good deal for Arsenal and the player…

    £2m is quite a nice fee, no doubt there will be sell-on clauses…

  267. allezkev says:

    Suprised to still see Coquelin at the club, does Wenger really see a role for him this season?

    Maybe as a stand-in full-back, he did ok in that role a few years back before injuries, loss of form and confidence took their toll…

  268. BT62 Gooner says:

    Hi Kev, not a bad group, should have enough to see off Gala and Anderlect, both could be tricky, though. See ourselves and Dortmund, fighting it out for top spot. But you never Know..lol

  269. allezkev says:

    Borussia Dortmund aren’t the team of two years ago. They’ll be tough opponents and Reus will be diving all over the place, but no Lewandowski this time.
    We should be able to take 4 points from them.

    Having experienced Besiktas already, Turkish stadiums shouldn’t hold any fears for our plagers…
    We fcuking owe Gala some payback for the UEFA Cup final…
    I’m looking for 6 points off of them…
    And especially a win in Istanbul…

    Anderlecht shouldn’t be dismissed, but if we don’t take 6 pounds from them, then I’m gonna take up ballroom dancing….

  271. allezkev says:

    BT, yeah it’s between us and Dortmund as you say.

    About time Arsenal did a proper job and won the group, instead of fannying around and scraping home second, usually on the last tie…

    We are supposed to be a big club, so I am constantly being informed by the club itself…

    A pity our manager doesn’t seem to see us as the big club that we should be and act…

  276. allezkev says:

    Potter, you should write direct to Gazides…

    Things will only improve, in that regard, if we complain…

    There is a definate complaicency at that level of the club…
    Some of those employed in the offices, treat us as if they are doing us a favour, taking our money…

    Night All

  277. potter says:

    I have asked for a refund of his red membership that he took out purely to get the ticket transferred. Not his fault they cocked it up and he will be back in Australia before the next home match.I think it’s the least they could do but they won’t.

  286. frednerk says:

    Morning All..well nickie.
    This player Sokratis may have legs,
    Wenger says he wants a player to play in two positions he plays in three,wonder if BFG has anything to with it.
    Drawing Dortmond yesterday Hm….

  292. frednerk says:

    I know it’s already been said on here..
    but that little chilien geezer..can he hav’it or what.
    wish I had gone now,must have been great seeing take on them centrebacks.
    I can see him having a big influence on players.
    He reminded of a very polite Suarez

  296. frednerk says:

    No Probs rico..looks a bit like me anyway.
    No one talking football yet..joke time.

    THE doorbell rang this morning. When I opened the door there was my mother-in-law on the front step.
    She said: “Can I stay here for a few days?”
    I said: “Of course you can.” And shut the door in her face.
    boom boom.

  297. frednerk says:

    “My wife said: ‘Can my mother come down for the weekend?’ So I said: ‘Why?’ and she said: ‘Well, she’s been up on the roof two weeks already’. Bob Monkhouse

  298. frednerk says:

    Last one then.

    My Wife said to me – You hate my relatives!

    No, I don’t! In fact, I like your mother-in-law more than I like mine.

    Off now.

  300. rogerbij says:

    #3 was the winner for me Fred!

    Love this from the Wenger conference:
    ** Wenger – I am on alert for transfers
    ** ‘We have an unbelievable number of strikers’
    ** Wenger – Transfer window like a poker game

    I read point three as meaning everything I just told you might mean nothing at all 😉

  305. Nickie says:

    :p lol Seems as though we will miss out on Falcao and Cavani (who actually believed we would have got one anyway)

    Likely incomings, Sokratis, Raboit, nostriker

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