Did Arsene Wenger do the right thing?

Morning all.

Jack Wilshere has been talking about his World Cup place.

I was panicking a bit about the squad, I wanted to be in it.

I thought I was ready but he said: ‘No, you’re not. You need to train alone if you are to have a good World Cup. You need a good fitness base and to be right in every aspect’.”

In other words, despite Jack believing he was fit to play for his club, Arsene Wenger knew just how important getting to Rio was for our midfielder and didn’t risk him just in case he suffered a set-back which would have ended his summer dream.

A short appearance, but very solid appearance in the FA Cup Final was clearly enough to prove his fitness and with it, a place in Roy Hodgsons England squad. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is in there with him too, despite not playing before the season ended.

But was it right of Arsene Wenger to put country before club?

As it turned out it didn’t matter as walked away from Wembley with the trophy in our hands but as said, he, Tomas and Sanogo all made a big difference to the way we played and some could be tempted to suggest that had they started, we may just have made the game easier for ourselves.

Hindsight is a wonderful thing eh and it must have been a hard decision to make leaving Jack out because with him playing we won 67% of our games, compared to just 57% without him.

Just like not signing a striker last summer was a crazy decision, just like not overplaying certain key players and had one been done and the other not, we could have won the double this season. It really was that close, a fit Aaron Ramsey and a striker with pace and scoring ability or even a winger with pace who can score would have given us something much different up front.

Nigel Winterburn has been talking about this summer transfer window:

A lot of people will be frustrated if we go into the last week of the transfer window and Arsene hasn’t made any major signings.

A lot of people are talking about three players that would really strengthen them. Obviously they need another centre forward, if not two.

People are talking about the right-back situation and maybe bringing in a strong holding midfielder. There are four or five positions [that need work].

Our old left-back isn’t the kind of man who’s all bitter and twisted when it comes to his old club. He speaks as a fan and he’s right, we need five signings to make us real challengers on all fronts.

Speaking of the World Cup that will happen on June 12, 2014 – who is your money on to win it?

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AndrewH
AndrewH
11 years ago

Morning rico and all. Been away on holidays, all over now before World Cup!

Can you do me a favour and save me tons of reading? Can you provide a quick summary list of all our summer buys so far?

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Morning again Rico,

It is good AW ensured JW was available to featured for us in the WC… if AW had done the same for France, the ‘ginger sniper’ at Talkshite and his likes will be out in arms protesting…

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Morning all.
I reckon we all know, just as much as NW, what is required.
Let’s assume Arsene not only agrees, but does something about it.
I believe Wenger did right by Arsenal in not playing Jack.
If he went I. Underdone, he’d have failed to himself or the Arsenal justice, and probably injured himself again, to an extent we will not know, thank goodness.
No, better leave a player off the pitch a week too long than bring him back a week too soon.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Hi Ah… hope you had a good one..?

The players we have signed are too numerous to list as you may suspect… 😉

Rico, when either the WC or the Euros is approaching it has an effect of a double edge sword imo…

As an example Poldi upped his game for us in order to make it to the WC…

Santi was on the verge of missing out but in the last 2 months he upped his game too in all areas… he was even defending and tracking back…

I think Per slacked off in the last 2 months.. we could factor fatigue into it but when Loew makes comments such as ‘Hummels is returning from injury at the right time, which will make him fresh for Brazil’… I guess it could make a player like Per think hold on a second I might get injured and miss out even though he had been superb for large part of the season…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

I sincerely wish Spain flop… how can Del Bosque choose Torres over Llorente?

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

All hypothetical as you said Rico…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

It worked out well with Jw so hopefully he helps us out to a good world cup..

Scott, you still haven’t given me your views on Jedinak your national captain…

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

Morning all,

got a good feeling about Jack at the world cup and next season. it’s his turn to shine, in his cameos for england and Arsenal he looked sharp and fresh

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

The less JW and Ox play in Brazil the better it is for us in August as we have to play in the CL qualifier plus the community shield so…

It looks like OG12 will be playing in most of Frances’ games…
Poldi will be a bit part player but Germany will be expected to get far in the tournament…

SC19 too is in similar situation…

We will have CJ25, Ramsey, Abu Dhabi,Gibbs, Flamster, MA08 who should be frsh and ready to go so fingers crossed…

rogerbij
rogerbij
11 years ago

Top players want to play always – just look at Costa and the Champions league final. He believed he could play, but anyone who has had a hamstring injury (I’ve done it too many times) knows this is a 3 week layoff. Now, with Jack, Wenger shows he cares about the player, he knows he’s not at peak fitness yet, and knows that the WC experience will be a big one for Jack. He’ll take that experience back to Arsenal – especially if he/england do well – and he’ll be a happier, more settled player for us. I didnt mind him on the bench for the final because we had more than enough midfield firepower on the field and he wasnt match fit. He still got his cameo, we won the cup, and now its the world cup. Bingo, good management from Wenger, and one hell of a final!

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

ditto- Roger

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

I’d personally like jack and ox to get a decent world cup under their belt. Boost their confidence. Couple of weeks rest before season they’ll be fresh

potter
potter
11 years ago

Nickie it will be good for their confidence to have a good Brazil trip but that doesn’t mean getting flogged to death , half hour at a time should be o.k. The conditions out there will mean squad management will be all important , thank God Wenger’s not in charge.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Lol Potter… ‘thank God Wenger’s not in charge’.

Our manager and AW are cut from the same old cloth…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Loew’s latest comments on Ozil is worrying to say the least…

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

Hodgeson definitely has a soft spot for the pair

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Come on Rico… we will get to quarter finals at least… 😉

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Sorry Ginge, I missed that request mate……
Medinak is fantastic.
He is big, strong, courageous and skilful…..remember his volley that shook our crossbar early in the season?
He is also a very well respected man, and a sensational choice as skipper.
Honestly, I would be rapt to see him at Arsenal, because he is an Aussie, naturally, but also because he is good!

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Guys, I am actually tipping England to perform better than the experts predict.
It seems they have finally rid themselves of some of the old guard, and have some fresh legs that bring pace to the squad.
I don’t mind them at all.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Ghana and England can’t both be out in the group stages… 🙂

I may end up supporting Belgium or Chile..

My plan B teams Germany and Holland currently look more suspect than AW against Chelsea…

Has anyone seen the Holland squad… ? the worst in decades imho…

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

I’d like to see this team Start Wednesday

———Hart———
John–Jag-Cah–Bain
——-Gerrard——–
—-Bark—–Wils—–
Ox——————Lalla
———Stur————-

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Nickie, imho Sterling is much much better than Ox currently… Sterling will start.

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

Ts

I can deal with Sterling taking Ox’s position. Ox supersub

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Ginge, I’ll have a friendly wager on Ox being the better player in a few years time /)

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

😛 Rico.. 50p? Are you taking bets?

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Of course Scott; Ox has the world at his feet.. in my view what is holding him back is his want to play centrally which I doubt he is ready for… not in the next 2 seasons at least…

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Fair call.
I still see him as a striker…one day 🙂

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Yes top 2 out of 4 in group…

AndrewH
AndrewH
11 years ago

Ts, rico, good thanks, all the better for that cup final win before I went. Daft how much one game can make to a summer!!

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

At this stage I see Serge a better all round player than Ox but Ox is obviously more exciting to watch…
Obviously Serge is more continental so he is a bit more advanced tactically than most players…

Its like Llalana… I like him a lot but most assume he is only 22y.o but in actual fact he is 26 y.o

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

You ‘chickening out’ of a 50p bet? 😛

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Personally, Barkley is the best English player… his football brains is superior even in his teens as compared to players like Llalana and even Sterling.. I know different players and all but…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Scott, re Ox as a proper no.9 or a sort of advanced no.10?

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Nickie, your midfield 3 who will be the no. 10? And what role is Barkley playing assuming its a traditional 4-2-3-1 set-up?

AndrewH
AndrewH
11 years ago

Barkley reminds me of Rooney breaking through and being a potential world class player. But despite the hype, he has never really made it to the very top level. Maybe this WC is his chance, but I suspect he wont take it by the scruff of the neck. Barkley has potential to go further, be interesting to see. Bad news for JWs place though!

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Totally agree Ah…

Barkley can play across the whole midfield too… Barkley is a big game player as well and because he is right footed he is a bit more fluid.

I have always said to friends that Rooney should become a CAM instead of a striker to make him a top top player…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Pleased for Ricky.

😀 Rico…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

It looks like the saints are being lynched from all angles… they may struggle next season…

Morgan for me please AW…

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

TS

Barkley furthest forward out of the 3, Gerrard deep and Wilshere the one who can make runs from deep linking defence to attack

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

I may upset some people but I don’t think Rooney should be a starter

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

I like that Nickie, good mix but all our opinions…

I see Hodgson playing JW as a no.10 though…

Watching footie this weekend every team I saw was playing AW and Peps 4-1-4-1 now..

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Ginge, not as lone striker….never.
For me, playing off the shoulder of a Giroud could be dynamic.
He is smart enough to time his runs, and that’s what we miss when Giroud gets his head to the ball.
Ox is fast, direct and can shoot.
He can also beat his man.
I can’t see any downside, to be honest.
Now…my turn…..what do YOU think of our big Aussie.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Rico, I remember that; I think it was Dna who said so… 😉

I if you recall I was calling for Barkley instead of Fellaini all last summer…

potter
potter
11 years ago

Barkley is now flavour of the month as Jack was before the combined thuggery of the Premierleague decided to kick him out of it. Barkley will get similar treatment but is bigger and more able to deal with it. Like Xavi and Iniesta Jack needs to learn when and where to put himself in danger and with a long uninterrupted run of games will start to kick on again.

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

If we wasn’t so spoiled in midfield I’d want Barkley at arsenal. I was the same Rico, was excited at the prospect of Rooney but he has looked pants all season and doesn’t deserve the England start.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Which big Aussie?

Scott, I am with you on Ox as a no.10-ish but until he improves how he shields the ball with his back to goal it is not going to happen…
Most teams do not play with the high back line anymore…

Like JW and loads of our English based players they struggle in that area…

Ox likes it when he has acres in front of him to turn on the turbo-chargers… ;0

It will be like Theo struggling with teams playing very deep as his pace can’t be utilised…

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Yes you have, Rico 🙂
I don’t think Rooney is finished, unless he stays at Yanited.
They were so ridiculously naive to pay him 300k a week.
He is set.
He is in his comfort zone.
That’s a bad place to be for a footballer.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Ginge, if Theo learned how to time his run off Giroud, he’d smash it!

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

On the comfort zone thing, I will throw this one up.
If Messi ever leaves Barca, he will go up a notch as a player!!!

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Ginge, THE big Aussie 🙂

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

I have to agree Potter…

The issue is always with us on this Island who view players like Townsend as exciting…

I always ask how often you see Ronaldo, Gotze, Robben etc just run with the ball for no reason?

Even Salah has stopped running with the ball since he joined Jose…

JW, I have always said should keep it simple like a proper no.6… he has the God-given talent.

That is why I like Barkley; at his age he knows when to dictate play or just keep things ticking along…

The issue with JW and most of our English players is that they assume they have to do something exciting to be appreciated…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

I like Wooney; I agree with you Scott but just maybe he hit his peak too early in his career and so the only way is down from here…

AndrewH
AndrewH
11 years ago

Scott, if TW stays fit for a year, and alongside Mesut, I think he will smash it anyway.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

If you referring to Jedinak then he should be playing Aussie Rules not in the EPL. 😛

Saying that he is with the right Rugby coach at Palace…

Joking aside… he has it all for his height. At 28 he looks liek he is hitting his peak and he is the type of signing AW should be making imho…

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Morning all, maybe the penny has finally dropped with Arsene, only play players when they’re fully fit. As for the Ox, needs to stay fit and used on a regular basis in the first team, a talent but in what position.As for England, can see them just getting out of the group, though not really interested. More worried about Ozil performances, missed a sitter last night.Big up for the Ladies yesterday, great way for Kerr to leave, Rico any ideas on the next manager? The demon Fake Java bug appeared again last night, as i was catching up on the Cesc lovefest. dam that bug.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Ginge, what did I say about Aaron…..once he simplifies his game, he will show his true worth.
Yes, Jack can learn that same lesson.
He has an incredible gift, so should stop trying so hard to do it all.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

true Bt, that Ozil miss was very worrying…

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Andrew, I agree.
Theo has shown a massive improvement in his football brain over the last 18 months, when playing.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Ginge, Jedinak was a late bloomer, so still has plenty to offer.
He’d be a ripper signing for Arsenal.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

True Scott re Ramsey but Ramsey had a bit more tactical brain and engine though imo…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Oh I agree with Rico again what is happening? 😛

Last summer when B04 rejected our bid for Lars I said I would pay £19m for Barkley instead but his rating is so high this time round Kenwright would expect £30M.. but if he is offered 60k salary it won’t be a bad investment imho…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Scott, wiki say Miles is 29 y.o…

Will Pulis accept £8m for him?

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

tbh, I don’t really want Cesc to make a return. Like you say i’d rather Barkley for 25mil. I’d hate to see Cesc go to our rivals though, I lose in every possible way unless he goes elsewhere in Europe

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Ts, if Ozil has a bad world cup and not feature a lot for Germany, his fragile confidence could take a big hit.

potter
potter
11 years ago

Jedinak ? We need a panto villain , Flamini isn’t cutting it.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

I doubt Pulis will want to lose him, Ginge.
Still, we could get him for a good price, and as I said, I reckon he’d have plenty of years left in his tank.
Of course you were right, Szczesny saved it….no crossbar intervention in that one 🙂

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

I don’t want Cesc either but I don’t have a lot of ambition… 🙂

Cesc was another big game bottler in his last 2 seasons with us… when he started off his performance against PV04’s inter was world class but when he hit the big time I thought he started to bottle it in the big games… just my humble opinion of course.

Cesc also never had the engine; I guess Aw played him into the ground but I could stand him going missing in the winter..

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

I will take that Rico… when ever I agree with you it makes my day.. 🙂

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Bt- Loew has put his whole managerial career on Ozil…

As I mentioned earlier I didn’t like how he tried to blame Ozil for that performance…

Loew is an idiot for not picking Keisling and Kruse… tbh

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Ginge, do you reckon Cesc was NOT a player that a team could be built around, or have his side lean on him?

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Scott, if Pulis sells to AW? lol

It will be like Mark Hughes refusing to sell your other country man to us after Al Fayed had agreed to sell to us…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Scott, imo Cesc thrived on being the center of things… that is why he probably ‘failed’ at Barca… (I am not saying he failed btw….)

It was interesting how his comment digging at AW about lack of specified tactics back fired on him at Camp Nou… he could not handle linking play between Busquet, and Xavi and Messi… too many cooks comes to mind…

😀 Potter

rogerbij
rogerbij
11 years ago

Hey Rico 10:37, but I totally agree with you actually – that when they came on we had more freshness and zip. I just dont think Jack shouldve started or played more than 45 mins or so. Hull were dead on their feet in extra time so fresh legs (and quality) got us over the line with a great win in the end 🙂

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Fair enough Ginge.
He loved it……..but it may not have loved him….that’s what I was trying to get at 🙂

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Rico, I must say that at the time…actually, until recently…I was of the opinion Cesc was simply homesick and did little wrong.
I have changed tack a bit.
He is quality, but the info I got was no way he will be back.
Time will tell, as always 🙂

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Anytime a personal deal is agreed before both clubs have agreed a deal it is dubious imo…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

lol.. re Cesc… shame but I put my neck on the line..

He will sign for Pelle’ and join Sagna and Nasri.. more money too

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Rico. i think i read somewhere it can’t be confirmed till 10 of June or perhaps Arsenes trying to get him for a fiver from QPR. lol

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

As I always say to Micko obviously internet has ears so I have to be careful but he was hardly ever injured with his 3 to 6 weeks hamstring injuries so…

And that dubious back pass well???

Canadian Gooner
Canadian Gooner
11 years ago

Good Morning to The Lady of the House and all fellow Gooners in residence.

Rico – Idon’t think Arsene was thinking about England when he delayed Wilshere’s return. I think he was trying to make sure he was fully fit before returning and trying to impress Hodgeson to make the England team. Many of the younger players don’t listen to their bodies and ar prone to re-injuring themselves. The last thing we need is an injured player sitting around moping and watching his national team at the WC.

I think it was Scott that said “better a week late than a week early”. Did I just quote Scott, what’s next?

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

Sky Sports sources believe Man City aren’t interested in Fabregas

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

CG, it is becoming a trend……ask Rico 🙂
Ginge, Citeh is what I heard for Cesc……..

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

I thought clubs would be all over him due to quality and his HG status.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Rico, I resent that.
I made thousands of rude comments and stayed.
Credit where it’s due, please 🙂

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Rico, can’t really answer that one,thought that strange myself, the other side is, have Arsenal agreed a fee with QPR yet?

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Nickie, it’s limited to clubs that can afford him, and I’d suggest he wants Arsenal to have every chance to buy him before he sets his sights elsewhere, but we may not be interested.
Who knows?
Bloody transfer windows!

Gunnerdna
Gunnerdna
11 years ago

Morning all, Good post rico..

“Rico, I remember that; I think it was Dna who said so”… 😉

Ts, which Everton game was this home or away?

Don’t get carried away with the hype on Barkley just yet, see what happen to JW. As soon as a english player have a couple good/average games in EPL he is deemed world class. Which other team in the world would carry Raheem Sterling to a world cup?

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

I think there is a cabbie somewhere crying in his tea reading that we don’t want that bloke from Barca to return to us…. As for the lunatic that is Balotelli………….. Why would any sane manager buy that nutcase….!

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

I see this Fabregas situation as a distraction for Wenger. He will dither all summer, should I? or shouldn’t I? over Fabregas which will take away from the signings we actually need. In the end I can see Wenger being so caught up with Fab that some of the more important areas aren’t addressed and because we have no time left he just signs Fab.

potter
potter
11 years ago

Is that a question regarding Wenger’s sanity ?

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Rico, apparently window officially opens July1, deals can be annonuced beforehand, I think all parties involved in these deals, have to be in agreement. Maybe it was July 10 i saw, don’t even trust myself anymore! lol

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Would I ever do that Potter 😉

Hey wait a second here your all jumping the gun… I not said anything about our esteemed one being a headcase…!

Canadian Gooner
Canadian Gooner
11 years ago

Regarding Cesc: even the Spanish papers can’t keep the story straight. One had him staying at Barcelona and 24 to 48 hrs. stated he was definitely going for the equivalent of 30 million pounds. We’re just going to have to wait until some team or the player makes an announcement.

Rico – Arsenal never announce a player is signed until all the paperwork is done (player, clubs, FA) and his registration received by the FA.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

I tested the waters a few times though, hey Rico lol

potter
potter
11 years ago

Financially the Cesc deal shouldn’t be too taxing. They still do owe us apparently for both him and Song so a deal could be struck and if we insert a delayed payment like they did with us it’s just a case of Wenger saying yes and sending his minnions to do the deal. Barca do not have Laporta twisting his parents this time and playing on his “” DNA “”. Perhaps we should play on his daughter living in London . As for him going to Chelsea , it’s just like Maureen to stick his oar in but just tell Santi to keep whispering Mata in his ear throughout the World Cup and that should make him see sense.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Yes Rico, once Ramsey came good you all loved me a hahahahaha.
Potter, I read Barca still owe us 15 million or so…..I can’t say that news is 100% accurate though.

Canadian Gooner
Canadian Gooner
11 years ago

Scott – You say people quoting you is becoming a trend. Is that another indicator that this is truly the ‘Silly Season’?

As for Cesc, one source has him waiting to talk to the new coach about his place on the FC Farcelona team before making up his mind. I doubt he will want to leave unless he has no part/place.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

🙂

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

The last guesstimate from Swiss ramble was 15million euro end of August 2013 but now it could be as low as 6/7 million euro…. Still a nice chunk for a down payment on Alexis Sanchez….!

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Rico, i was taking the July date from the Daily Mirror article on the transfer windows opening and closing.lol. Still if there is no agreement with QPR, then no announcement. I only seen personnel terms agreed, so confusing!! lol

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

CG, it’s the world gone mad!!
Ask Lee, I’m never right, so you lot quoting me must be even worse lol.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Wath, so that was only a guess and old info…apologies……I never realised that bit.

Canadian Gooner
Canadian Gooner
11 years ago

Scott – I was already questioning my own sanity.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

And rightly so!!
I am not sure I want to discuss all things Arsenal with people who agree with my opinions.
You lot may have no standards, but i most certainly do.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

I’m off guys…..enjoy the day/rumours/denials…….

southyorkshiregunner
southyorkshiregunner
11 years ago

Afternoon all.

Would I want Fabregas to return?
Why not. He’s an 83-cap international with plenty of goals and in him.
When he played for us the team had holes in it – Almunia, Eboue, Denilson etc and he was for most of the time the stand-out performer.
We now have a proper team …

We have loads of midfielders already? Really?
Diaby is bollocksed, Arteta is almost washed-up, Flamini is Flamini – Rosicky -as much as I like him – he is 34 this year…..

Fabregas would be a good purchase and you know with him in the team that we wouldn’t be getting caned 0-6, 1-5 etc..

Is he the solution to a problem?
No, but he would help and he is world class.

Javier Martinez is also part-solution to the problem and he is also a £30M midfielder.

Canadian Gooner
Canadian Gooner
11 years ago

Scott – I’m sure us agreeing with you is only a temporary aberration, normal service will be resumed.

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Rico, yip they can be done if you stump up the cash wanted by the players club.

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

Wenger seems confident of deals so we just have to play the waiting game 🙂

Nickie
Nickie
11 years ago

I’ll lose all respect for Cesc if he decides to play for that clown

potter
potter
11 years ago

I repeat what I said earlier :- As for him going to Chelsea , it’s just like Maureen to stick his oar in but just tell Santi to keep whispering Mata in his ear throughout the World Cup and that should make him see sense.

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

I see Grizemann scored a cracker for France, Arsene likened it to a Pires finish. Smoke and mirrors ref Arsenes’ transfer quotes, hard to do before world cup, hard to do after, players on hols, Market congested with big money buyers, expects signings early!! Aah!! lol

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Cesc to the Chavs means he gets to stay in London with the Mrs and kid and also gets to earn a huge salary… Am sure he’s smiling big time…!

Lee
Lee
11 years ago

I reckon Rik Waller would be a better replacement….

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Wath, and he gets to play for Maureen! lol

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Bt, Don’t forget AW also likes to make others think he wants players that they then buy at inflated prices when he wasn’t interested at all… He wants to try buy players with as little fuss as possible hence his comments from all over the place.

We still like to do our business as quietly as possible but in this world of social media it’s becoming harder and harder but still not impossible.

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

As an aside Bt, It would be interesting to see how someone like Moreenyo would play Cesc…!

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

He’s at the age Rico where he now has a list to remind himself… It works for Grandad Kev he been doing it for years…!

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Hi WAth… Balo’ is a mad genius ask Einstein? 🙂

Syg, stop dreaming Sir and lay off Eboue and the Spanish waiter? How was your trip to Cyprus? Did you see the photo of Song and Poldi throwing up their ‘gang’ signs? lol

Song was really making Ozil and Khedira look very average but that is another story..

For those who missed the Belgium game.. lets put £25m down for Lukaku..
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1xycj2_sweden-vs-belgium-0-2-hd-all-goals-highlights-friendly-match-01-06-14_sport

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Ts, no doubting the talent of Balo but the bloke is a complete headcase and who ever takes him is just taking on so much trouble he just not worth the risk even for free…!

I’d rather Hazard Ts 😉

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

lol.. and those who think Tv is average and 3rd choice material… him next to Kompany was colossal imho…

Again Fellaini was on the bench for Witsel, Dembele starting…

😀 Dna re Barkley it depends on what you expect from a player…

If Xavi was from this league he won’t be talked about same as Carrick because he hardly scores…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Wath Lol.. £30m plus and a 150k a week salary; you want to kill AW?

Seriously, though I agree with you.. I just believe he is bound to grow up eventually…

Gattuso was sent to the SPL before he matured so…

Bt62 Gooner
Bt62 Gooner
11 years ago

Wath, as i said smoke and mirrors, it would be a lot easier to keep deals quiet at times, if he didn’t make insulting offers. Couldn’t see Cesc being allowed to roam the pitch under Maureen.

Gunnerdna
Gunnerdna
11 years ago

Ts, ” Dna re Barkley it depends on what you expect from a player…

If Xavi was from this league he won’t be talked about same as Carrick because he hardly score.” lol

Using Barkley and Carrick in the same sentence with Xavi, u r a brave man. lol

England leave their best left back at home for a WC and fans calling for Raheem Sterling to start so u might have a point.

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Ts, Only 30bar on Hazard… more like 45/50….! Yep you just know AW would have a kitten parting with such money lol be worth seeing his face though 😀

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

I also like Sterling, quick and direct and causes defenders problems….! Can’t see what your problem is with him Gdna….

BrainwashedKev
BrainwashedKev
11 years ago

Typical, the Chavs get Cesc and Barkley, meanwhile Arsenal’s busy summer grinds on snoozing…

Afternoon All.
Afternoon Rico
Afternoon Wath

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Lol WAth… the look on AW’s face will definitely be a box office moment.

Hiya Kev… I didn’t get much for birthday and Christmas as a child so my expectations are as low as it can get. 😀

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Afternoon Grandad, hope your well mate…

No crying in your tea it waters it down..!

southyorkshiregunner
southyorkshiregunner
11 years ago
southyorkshiregunner
southyorkshiregunner
11 years ago

Hiya Ginge…

Lukaku ….. £25M …. Bony …. Benteke … £25M ???

You’re getting as bad as Clarence Seedorf ….

Adam
Adam
11 years ago

Afternoon Rico.

Wavy
Wavy
11 years ago

Afternoon Adam and Rico and SYG and Kev and WATH and…..transfer discussions are all very well but they are really only like playing fantasy football or champ manager!
I’m not holding my breath waiting for our first signing (if there is one), as I fear I will die first and then I’ll never know! Not a good plan for the future!

Rick
Rick
11 years ago

Afternoon Rico and the house.
Wow whats up all the big Guns on together.
Sorry one missing
Wake up Scott.

Rick
Rick
11 years ago

I dont know Rico it’s been great reading the last few days.
Like you I think something big is on the cards.

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

I saw Lee earlier Rico, he posted a pic of himself on twitter gazing out of a window….! Quite bizarre then realised he was waiting for the pub to open.

Wavy
Wavy
11 years ago

Last time I had ‘a feeling in my bones’ it turned into flu!

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

You need to wrap up warm then Wavy………… 😉

I find a bottle of whiskey helps……..

Lenz
Lenz
11 years ago

Tgsh

sorry,but van buyten was the guy who was with kompany yesterday and van buyten was superb
he led the counter attack for the eden hazard’s goal
Vermaleen played at left back.have to say but witsel and dembele looked good

Re:lukaku
good goal but doesnt know how to connect with his mildfielder,would defo improve with age even at everton he struggled with this.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

lol… Syg.. I haven’t even come to why Benteke who is injured is worth £30m plus yet… 🙂

Hi Rick

Rick
Rick
11 years ago

Hi Ginge hows things
Did you see Ozykup played for Turkey last night and is reported to have had a good game. Pitty he saw fitt to leave.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Not too bad Sir.. and you?I saw highlights because of klinsmann…
ozykup heeded RVp’s advice apparently…

BrainwashedKev
BrainwashedKev
11 years ago

Ginge, my expectations are what they usually are…

We are in the archetypal early transfer window, with the oh so boring but predictable pre-season ticket renewal bullshit behind us and now several weeks of frustration ahead of us as Chelsea, Man City, ManUre and maybe this time even Liverpool, hoovering up all the targets we’d hoped to see at Arsenal…

Imagine this Ginge: Mourinho bringing in Costa, Fabregas, Barkley, two fingers to FFP eh?

In one summer, any EPL hopes Arsenal had, blown away…

Still we might get Remy…

Lee
Lee
11 years ago

Or Bent or Kalou?

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Grandad…. Behave or I’ll have to put you back on your tabs……..

Only team who has actually bought anyone is Liverpool, a 32yr old striker…! Don’t tell me that’s upset you…?

As for all the other players who are linked with Tom Dick n Harry until it happens nothing has happened…!

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Rico, I really don’t care where he goes as long as we buy what we need… let him take his attitude elsewhere… Funny how today I have read stories saying Barca upset with his attitude….! Funny…!

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Tabs on their way Rico……! 😉

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

good question Rico… already made Xavi replacement apparently but they are prepared to allo someone with that dna to leave..

Barca could make more money selling Alexis if it was about money…
then again I am bitter so… 🙂

Kev, I want Jose to buy want he wants and still fail so that Roman can sack him… lol

BrainwashedKev
BrainwashedKev
11 years ago

We’ll all be taking tablets, by the August 31st deadline… 🙁

Lee, the only thing that keeps my spirits up is the thought of seeing Kalou and Bent leading the Arsenal attack….
Mind you, add a Bender to that mix and now your talking…

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Him cause problems in the camp… never Rico… unheard of….! lol

One of the big reasons they bought him back as well was due to the usual presidential battle….!

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Luis Enrique was a fine pragmatic player who I suspect would value Cesc if something was not brewing in the background…

Do we really want Darren Dein sniffing around again?

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Lol… Rico…
I am just coming back to football so lets look at next week 😉

Wavy
Wavy
11 years ago

The only news around is that there is no news!
We are presently in the false war period! It’s a bit like the false no 9. It’s an intangible bale thing everyone can see it and feel it but nobody can quite put their finger on it!
A transfer is in the offing but we don’t know who, we don’t know when and we don’t know how much!……………but it is going to happen………..is t it?

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Morning all.

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Rico no idea obviously and lets be honest one minute he off the next he staying but it does seem he’s ruffled feathers at Barca….! They obviously want as much as possible for him which is also why it’s all smoke n mirrors….

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Morning Scott….

Mate those number I commented on are from Swiss Ramble… what you said about the 15mil was right according to Aug 2013 but no one knows whats been paid in the interim…! SR estimated that the figure would now be approx 6/7million outstanding. BUT no one will know exactly until next financial results are released.

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

As is the norm Rico… Marca and ElMundo are complete and utter bullshit artists… they make our red tops look like proper investigative papers with full on 100% proper inside info…!

Wavy
Wavy
11 years ago

I’ll see what I can do. Don’t hold your breath and just to say I gave up pens in 2009 now I only use swords!

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

No worries, Wath.
Let’s hope it’s still 15 million…gives us more leverage whichever way it plays out.
Let’s get Messi!!
Nah, from what I’ve seen of them, Sanchez is the man that would upgrade us, and Alonso from Real would do as well.
They are the two players from Spain I’d love.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

I mean from the Spanish league……

snaparse
snaparse
11 years ago

I’m a big Alonso fan Scott would definitely take him even with his age

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

He is now Jedinak though 🙂
Kidding of course.
Alonso is no nonsense, get the job done type of player, and we can use one or two like that.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

What is happening on HH… Scott into Alonso? 😛

To me he is what a DM should be; he is not the destroyer but he does the job perfectly…

We were going to get Alonso last season when Asier was signed but against the Cesc rumours slowed things down…

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Scott, the FA are going to ban Jedinak.. he is an Aussie Rule player… 🙂

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Rico, Alonso still better than both Benders though… imho

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

night Rico

snaparse
snaparse
11 years ago

Alonso is also an excellent distributor as well…

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Night Rico.
Ginge, I’ve always rated the guy very highly.
Jedinak is big enough and strong enough to play Aussie rules lol.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

True Snap..

Lol he is a big man indeed Scout but according to wiki just 6’2

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

Scott even; sorry

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Ginge, he is tall enough, but with a solid frame as well.
As with Alonso, no nonsense, get the job done.
He’d never take a backward step and I will say this….with his heart, we would NEVER be beaten 6-0.

tsgh
tsgh
11 years ago

night Scott, Snap and all… stay safe

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Later Ginge.

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Nite Ts…..

We fcuked up big time not getting Alonso when he left Livpoo…..!

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Yep.
We do that a bit, hey Wath?

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Yeh just a bit Scott lol….. We do it quite well too…!

BrainwashedKev
BrainwashedKev
11 years ago

Wilfred Bony for £19 million?
Or
Mario Balotelli for £20 million?
Or
Jean-Christophe Bahebeck for a Free+ 50% of any sell-on fee?
Or
Saloman Kalou for a Double Pie n Mash…?

Wavy
Wavy
11 years ago

Bent?
And
Bender
he perfect ‘match’!

Wath
Wath
11 years ago

Kev… stop reading the bloody gossip columns lol

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Kev writes the gossip columns 🙂

allezkev
allezkev
11 years ago

Wavy, I like it…

Wath/Scott 😀

Night All

potter
potter
11 years ago

Morning all , just to start the day they Cesc and Mourinho have history.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cvoudp4STF0

then of course http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2562729/Shut-Cesc-Fabregas-bites-Jose-Mourinho-slams-Barca-worst-years.html
I will try to find the coverage of their argument at Highbury too for later.

Must get off to work now.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Hiya Rico.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

He’s a tosser 🙂

Lee
Lee
11 years ago

Morning all, I hate all this transfer bollox! Trouble is, looking at newsnow is so addictive but also a massive crock of shit!
Saying that, the dippers are trying to nick Aurier! 😉

Lee
Lee
11 years ago

Touche Rico

Sukky
Sukky
11 years ago

Despite leaving in 2011,Fabregas has played the most accurate 2RU ball in Epl and he has picked up the highest assist since he left.Can’t see why we should be debating on That type of player.World class players is not too many in a team.

Lee
Lee
11 years ago

Why are you picking on Potter?
Free Potter!

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

We need to talk about transfer rumours because there’s nothing else happening lol.

Scott From Oz
Scott From Oz
11 years ago

Here is a Little snippet on Sean’s football school.
Coaches from all over the world have our kids hanging on their every word….
http://www.internationalfootballschool.com/2014/06/03/right-place-right-time/

potter
potter
11 years ago

The links :- I went to work not Golf.