Morning Gooners,
Whilst all the talk is about transfers this summer and how much we believe Wenger has to spend, I thought I would give you just a little food for thought.
Rumours are spreading that we’re after this player and have missed out on another, here are a few we are linked to:
Jan Vertonghen, a Belgian 25-year-old midfielder/defender, but it looks like Jan has picked the mob down the road.
Eden Hazard a Belgian midfielder, 5′ 8” and 21 years old – he has chosen Chelsea.
Yann M’Vila , a French defensive midfielder, 21 years old and 6′ tall.
Apart from Yan Vertonghen who is 25, the others we are looking at are under 22 years old and some of the prices for these players is very high indeed.
We have brought in Lukas Podolski who I must admit I hadn’t heard of until Wenger sprung him on us and after checking on his Wikki page I see he is down as a midfielder/forward/winger, supporters who know more about him than me, believe him to be a great signing but we are also looking for other signings.
Why?
Why we are looking at players, very young players at that who have been plying their trade abroad, when we have our own players who have already been out on loan, or waiting in the reserves for the chance in the first team.
We have a young 18 year old central defender playing for our reserves in Elton Monteiro, he’s 6′ 3” tall, Swiss and is getting good reviews. He has signed a contract with us and is waiting his chance so why are we looking elsewhere when this lad has been learning in England and at Arsenal.
Why are we looking at foreign players that we don’t know when this lad hasn’t been tried and tested?
We won’t have to pay £5 or £10million for the likes of Vertonghen, we could have the right player in-house already and 6’3”, he sounds perfect. We also have Bartley and Miquel…
Supporters are crying out for another striker and many names have been thrown in but again we have Benik Afobe who keeps on getting good reviews. He’s 19 years old 6 feet tall and surely he must be worth giving a chance too? We also have Joel Campbell who has been out on loan, a 19 years old 5′ 10” Costa Rican Striker, another who has been getting rave reviews, where would signing a striker leave them both?
Then, we have Chuks Aneke, an 18 year old English midfielder, we have Lansbury too – all these players are already under contract at the club so why are we looking at players of a similar age from overseas?
Podolski – as said earlier, a winger/striker but we have Ryo Miachi who received great reviews from Owen Coyle whilst on loan at Bolton, so much so, he wants to keep him for another season – I have had the pleasure of watching this lad and he is going to cause sides all sorts of problems if he ever gets into our team.
Guess the point I am trying to make is, we don’t always have to look oversea’s for players when we have so many already within the club, why train all these young players in the Arsenal way just for them to sit back and watch outsiders of a similar age be signed up and take their place?
Surely we have to start playing our young players otherwise what exactly is the point of bringing them to the club in the first place and for the kids who have grown up knowing nothing but Arsenal, why should they be overlooked?
Jack Wilshere, Theo Walcott, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Aaron Ramsey and Kieran Gibbs all came in at a young age. Some of these players have only played a bit part this year but on the market could fetch £10-20 million, we have others here in reserves, young yes, but in one season they could be immense.
Isn’t it worth giving them a go?
Written by Steve Palmer
Nice post steve.
Morning all,
Interesting post Steve, and certainly food for thought but, if we rely totally on what we have in-house, the fans will go crazy.
Certainly agree about having enough youngsters at the club and imho we don’t need anymore for a while, unless they are like the Ox 😉
Youth is killing youth – what we need is a bit of experince in the club now.
Talking of which, looks like we could miss a chance with Jussi, suggestion is he’s off to West Ham 🙁
you didn’t know of podolski!!!!!!! Your knowledge of football must be shocking!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Great Post Steve.
I see a big problem for Arsenal.
If Wenger had come out and said we are going to have two or three quiet years,as we are truly going to give our young guys absolutely every opportunity to grow into first team players,then fans may not like it,but would at least know the direction the club was heading.
This of course would certainly mean a few years of finishing mid table,offering up no CL football and missing out on the pot of gold that goes with it.
This appears to be unacceptable for the club,and puts them between a rock and a hard place.
We know the club can’t or won’t,make up your own minds,spend big money on players,so we are stuck somewhere in the middle.
Our deadline day signings came down to more than the Old Trafford debacle,thats just an easy one to blame things on.
Losing players late in he transfer season and a rash of injuries contributed.
Wenger bought players that were perfect for the situation.
Guys that had plenty of experience,wanted to play for the club and wouldnt cost much money…..it worked,and regardless of other contributing factors,they got the job done.
Wenger and the board seem to realise we can’t trouble for top spot,but I wish they’d come out and tell us where the short term future lies.
The club appears to be treading water,and again,if they told us that his will go for a few more years then fine,but tell us.
What we do not want to hear is that we have money to spend but then don’t spend it.
Do we have enough money to challenge for the League,really??
Would M’Villa,Giroud,Kagawa and Afellay give us enough quality and squad depth to challenge Citeh,Utd and Chelski??
If we were told that Afobe,Aneke,Bartley,Ox,Myachi etc,etc,etc were going to be given plenty of first team football next season,and given every chance to prove their worth,how would we,the fans,react???
Geez just looked back,thats nearly an article….sorry guys…hope it’s worth it lol.
Just watching Mexico v Brazil.
Chelski can have Hulk,he has he turning circle of the QE11,and is almost as fast!!!
Oh,and Mexico are very,very good.
Anther fine example of how easy it is to be a critic and how hard it is to actualy do the job,If we go youth and win nothing its wrong, if we buy at big money (ala Liverpool), its wrong. Fact is Chelsea have bought Hazard and City have bought Silva, Utd have bought Valencia, if you think we can pitch the likes of Cambell and Afobe against those and be immiediatly competative you are dilusional.
If the opposition have there sides packed with international quality then we need the RvP’s and Podolski’s of this world, not kids and potential.
Scott
Not knowing what direction the club is going in is what narks many, since Stan has taken over, he has said nothing.
Maybe if we were told a bit more, we could all try and understand the reasons why.
But all we hear is ‘we have money’ from IG, then AW says, ‘I am not afraid to spend £30M on one player’ – but then we see little action in transfer windows.
Mixed messages….
I honestly believe we have the money, the club, whether it be Stan or Arsene Wenger, just choose not to spend it. They certainly don’t seem to ever really want to spend big on one player…
Is Vela playing Scott?
How have you never heard of Podolski? Seriously?
Good article, and yes we should give our youngsters a chance, but giving them a chance is putting them in a team that has experience and maturity so they can learn and adapt. Throwing them into a team where they have to be the main player would be counter productive (and i am not accusing you of saying this Steve) now i believe so we need to look at signing players that can improve the squad on and off the pitch with how they behave on off the pitch Arteta being the template.
I would rather see us sign good professional players who have made the best of their ability than some unproven in this league superstars. Ideally we should be looking at players in the 26-30 bracket who have learnt from their mistakes and can pass on this to younger players. After a couple of years we could then move them on for a fee and bed in the youngsters.
Calos Vela has scored 12 goals and assists, Why can’t he come back also?
Philbet – Steve is asking why we are looking at players of a similar age to what we have got, not comparing the likes of Afobe etc to signing Afellay, Podolski, or other experienced players.
For sure we cannot rely soley on kids, that would be a sure way to get RvP to leave but, the ones Steve mentions will all have a part to play this coming season, even if it is only the CO Cup…
vernat – i am hoping too that any player we sign this summer proven themselves in their own team/league.
That is what we need to show true ambition…
Vernat,we have Arteta who is a prime example of what you said,and he’s been brilliant for us….a few more,but Podolski is a sensational start. I honestly think people underestimate how good a player this bloke is.
Philbet,another example of someone jumping in without truly reading the article.
Show me one point Steve makes that is negative or critical,please.
Rico,not yet,but it’s half time,Mexico are 2-0 up,so am hoping he gets on in the 2nd half.
Hulk is overrated.
Thanks Scott, Chavs are welocme to him then 😉
jlubegas – he has had enough of afc, he wants out and i don’t blame him…
Couldn’t agree more Scott am so glad we bought Podolski, but I think we need to sign three more players and I would like to see the split in age on these to be two in the 26-30 age group (like a Dempsey) and one in the 21-24 age group so that they can improve the depth of the squad.
Who do you think will make the jump to the first team regularly from the youngsters, I think Coquelin so would not be that disappointed if we did not sign a DM and strengthened elsewhere ,will anyone else make the step ?
RIco,I’ve been one of Velas biggest fans,but am still not convinced he could lead us in the PL.
I reckon he’s in the perfect league right now for himself.
He’s capable of playing for big clubs over there.
Afobe & Ryo if they both stay..
You been ticking AW’s box Scott? 😉
In some ways Vela was the author of his own downfall, always playing for his contry then when he came back he was tired etc, didn’t he have a chamakh experience too?
Coquelin Is an absolute gun,IMO.
His performances last season,when thrown into different positions,was just outstanding.
My position on our main signings hasnt changed…I reckon the priorities need to be a DM and CAM.
M’Villa,Capoue or even De Jong,and get Lucas,Kagawa or,my new favourite,Eriksen.
A few more top up players,and we are in business.
Morning All,
My thoughts on writing this post was of the Great Roman Dominance of the world, and the way the Roman downfall came about, When the Romans were at their height they started to run out of Roman soldiers so enlisted foreign help from outside, sadly those outsiders were no match for the fully trained and passionate Roman soldiers and the fighting didn’t mean the same to them and they never had the same kind of fight in them and the downfall had started, many of you would say that we are not at war and had the Romans brought in experienced soldiers this would not have happened and the young should not be relied on, but i would say that in the second world war when our experienced soldiers had all been killed we also ran out of experience so recruited 17 year olds to fight for their country many with a minimum of training but they had heart and persevered to win the battle. We have the same kind of thing at the Arsenal where we are training youngsters how to do things our way, we believe that this is the way to succeed the difference nowadays is that we have a multicultural country and the same goes with our youngsters but they are learning in the Arsenal way, so these youngsters have all got the same mentality, they are being trained and deserve their place on the front line, some maybe will not turn out hero’s but they have the right background and i believe we should put more trust in them.
Steve was the Roman dominance not ended or at least started when the legions elected the emperor starting with the praetorian legions and then moving on to the legions in Germany etc.. by supplying a donative (bribe) they then used this power base to be elected Emperor. Unfortunately they had already expanded the empire too much and the costs of running and supplying the legions were more than they could afford, added to this was the need to buy off rivals and supporters with lucrative posts where they could make money, this lead to a downturn in the revenue stream to the empire and a clack of productivity.
If you add in the cost of the corn dole for the plebeians in Rome and the cost of games etc.. the empire collapsed due to that as Cicero said “the sinews of war are infinite money”
RICO,I do try my best to take emotion out of things when discussing players.
Quick rundown…
Chamakh,was terrific until RVP came back,lost his spot and all confidence…better off elsewhere.
Bendtner..I’ve always like him,and he’s always dangerous,but he will never be our main striker,so let him go to a smaller league where he will be super….yes,he’s a wanker though.
Arshavin,he’s tough to read,but better off elsewhere,obviously in Russia where he’s happy and comfortable.
Squllaci was obviously a good defender in France,but probably too old to adapt to the PL…..everyone looks with the aid of hindsight and says he’s not good rough,but he was highly rated player previously…send him back to France.
Fabianski….I still reckon technically one of the better keepers around,but too anxious,too nervy. Send him to a club where he’s definitely #1 and watch him flourish.
I’ve probably missed some.
People blame Wenger for not getting the best out of guys,but you know what,sometimes it just doesn’t work out,and you don’t know til it’s too late.
Steve,I agree with you in part,but it’s no coincidence that the PL is the best in the world,and has been since the influx of imports.
In some ways De Jong would be the better option to sign – we all know what he’s about, he’s used to the PL etc but my worry is his temperment – he could end up missing half the season with his record of red cards 😉
Pato is just coming in…RICO,this guy IS the real deal.
He’s worth every cent of 40 million,relatively speaking,of course lol.
RICO,maybe we need a hardhead.
Morning Steve
I totally understand where you are coming from, what is the point in having all the reserve/youth players, if we are just to sell them off as soon as they get to an age where they should be pushing for a place.
But, maybe they are still too young, let them play in the CO Cup or give them another season on loan at a PL club to get them used to playing in the PL.
Personally, I’d like to see them go to one of the newly promoted sides, not West Ham though as Sam has wasted Lansbury’s season imho..
In the meantime, bring in a couple of older experienced players.
i’d still like us to sign Yakubu….
I have been asked to answer why i hadn’t heard of Lucas Podolski, and i will answer because i take more notice of English football, Arsenal being my main concern. Wenger is the expert in these transactions he finds them buys them and install’s them in the team, i watch them and then i can comment on them sometimes he gets it right and sometimes they don’t perform. After watching and reading as much as i can about Arsenal and Wenger i have faith in what Wenger is trying to do, he’s the expert not me. But you can be sure of one thing if Podolski is as good as you all believe he is then Wenger will be right again and i will comment in my usual manner. Not everybody knows everything and i certainly don’t
I read some comments from RVP today.
As usual,we read misquotes and just plain crap from he media.
Neither Wenger nor Arsenal banned RVP from speaking to the media about his contract situation.
The fact is,and it’s straight from the players mouth,is that both parties agreed mutually that NEITHER party would discuss the topic publicly until after the Euros.
The media had us all thinking the club had demanded it.
Scott – some of those you list aren’t capable of getting the best out of themselves, thats where half the problem lies imho.
Should a top class sports person really need to be motivated by someone else all the time?
Most of the desire, passion and will to win, should come from within…
Paddy, Pires, Freddie, Petit, Henry etc, does anyone believe they needed motivating?
Or Adams, Dixon, Cole, Keown etc etc…
No, I don’t think so either…
Vern, you have swallowed a history book and i commend you but i think you got my point 🙂
If only some could show Arsene these palyers. Then maybe we could start giving young players a chance.
Steve,I don’t eleven you need to justify yourself.
Think about this….we all would love M’Villa to sign,but how many have watched many of his games??
Vertonghen…..was never,ever mentioned until Spuds went after him and we were linked.
Giroud…never seen him.
Capoue…never seen him.
Eriksen….until the other day,never seen him.
Mathias Suarez….who??
The list is endless.
I think we need a bit of middle ground. Remember the days of Henry/Bergkamp/Pires/Vieira? We had a Carling Cup team where the most promising youths were given competitive game time. We need to get back to then, I want a first team of experienced, top class players with the rest of the squad, top class potential who can come in and learn their trade slowly. We can’t just throw potential at the league but then, we can’t ignore it but I honestly believe, potential grows when surrounded by class. So, get 2 or 3 more top class players in and give the youth a safe place to grow.
here is the problem these players are definately good but not yet there for first team football… players should not be rushed… they need to first prove they are ready then they should be give the oppourtunity… also players like lansbury, ramsay, miquel, bartley, mayachi, afobe, anke, wellington are all good and could make it at arsenal but they are not ready yet…. they need to be educated and made to understand that 2- 3 years on loan and then they would be ready for first team.
it isn’t necessary that they only go to championships of loan they should be sent all alover depending on their ltalent and which country would suit them best. also thier loans must not be rushed … until the manager dosent fell their education as a player is over they shouldn’t be sent…
and most of all they aer not first temaers we should invest in brining up young talent but at the same time have a first tema squad that could challenge any team.
youth development is very important fo rthe success of a club put it is not the primary reqirement it is secondary… winning tropihies with a goodfirst team is the prinmary reqirement!!!!
RICO,I’m not talking about just motivation.
Look at greyhounds…my other little passion.
I’ve seen great trainers get rid of a dog as no good,only to see it blossom for a no name trainer.
Often,at a big club,a player is a small fish.
Send them to a small club and guess what…they’re the big fish and love it.
It can actually happen in reverse,too.
On Bartley,I reckon Scotland is a bloody good place for any defender to learn his trade.
He will be one tough kid when he returns.
Steve – you don’t have to justify anything, like you, i don’t really follow overseas footie, can’t say i am that interested and i don’t have the time 😉
If we extend the metaphor here from the Roman empire, then the person promising ‘Bread and Circuses’ big signings world class players etc… with no regards for financial stability looks to be appointed to own the club, sound like Ursamnov? In the end the books have to balance and the stability of the institution be it an empire or a club is paramount. Foundations are not as exciting to watch built as the structure above but without them the building collapses look at Leeds, Portsmouth et al.
Let’s spend some money absolutely, lets have a more meritocratic distribution of the wage bill where excellence is rewarded with a larger salary and lets have some tactical flexibility to overcome the financial disadvantage we face against teams that can have international players on the bench and even outside of their named squad. We don’t just need to work harder as a club we need to work smarter as well.
So you saying Wenger isn’t the right coach for all then Scott 😉
RICO,all football is overseas for me 🙂
Scott i agree with a lot that you say and just recently have been told that out thoughts are on the same Lines 🙂
Will, you always come out with sensible comments and i am always open to them 🙂
At the end of the day we all love the Arsenal and want whats best for them we are not all happy with some of the things that happen in our club but be assured we will be here for a very long time where some of the others are riding high at the moment but spending is not always the answer and they will all suffer down the line.
And Rico thank you again for making it readable you run a good ship and i’m thankful of that 🙂
Nobody is the coach for all Rico.
You know I’ve spoken of his failings,and I know your being a cheeky bastard lol.
Gotta tell you….Sean is in is room watching Adele live at The Albert Hall….wife tells me it’s it’s sixth running today(home from school sick).
Steve,we’re either both genius’ or morons.
Which do you reckon??
Exactly Scott, but JV has be linked to us before, maybe thats the reason Arry wants him….
Terry – what narks me is players going out on loan, only to sit on the bench – the club need assurances that our players will play – if that means dropping down a league then i guess that is what we should be doing.
Owen Coyle is one of the better managers in that respect, he takes one of ours and he plays them and looks after their progress….
Fair rough Rico,but you get the point.
Not what i was told last night Steve 😉 My pleasure as always…
Going on from todays post – Allezkev has written a couple of posts on our youth, i’ll post the first one tomorrow as it will follow on nicely 😉
Scott, me cheeky, never 😉 And Steve is not a moron, however 😉 😉
That’s why we need an Arsenal B side Rico.
These kids learn the Arsenal way,let them play the Arsenal way.
If we are to pay average players good wages,let them play in B side and at least offer some experienced help.
I read yesterday how even the Squllacis etc,etc show the kids in the reserves exactly what it takes to prepare for games amongst other things.
Make use of them.
I know Steves to a moron,but plenty will disagree if he’s being compared to me!!
How many would like to watch home games every single week….A side one week,B the next.
Going out for a couple of hours take it easy on me, Scott I’ll leave that for the others to answer but i like ya 🙂
I certainly do Scott, would be interesting to know, just how many fans see the name of a player linked and then hop onto youtube…
And, from what i saw of both hazard and vertonghen the other night, i don’t think either were outstanding. They couldn’t break through an old english defence, they have no chance at Stoke 😉
Enough of that Rico 🙂
Whats the second string champions league thingy thats been started, we are in it aren’t we?
Laters Steve, have a good day….
I comment on players I’ve actually seen,or if unseen,I am open about it.
I’ve had a rap on Podolski for a while.
Alucas,the Brazilian kid is a gun.
Isco,another kid linked to us,is also a ripper.
Eriksen,well,I’m glad I’ve seen him now,and I wasn’t disappointed.
You’re on our own Steve,I don’t even like me lol.
AFC really need to get back on television, used to watch all the reserve games then, but setanta went belly up and with it went our tv channel….
Where would Arsenal B play?
Spooky:
http://arsenalyouth.wordpress.com/2012/06/04/nextgen-draw-throws-up-intriguing-tests-for-arsenal-youngsters/
I’m agree with you steve.. No rush for a big, expensive, unproven star.. Let’s focus with the proven EPL players like Dempsey, Nzonzi or Hoilett and Kalou (both for free)..
What we must do is mixed combination of youngster and stars, than Arsenal will be great..
If Walcott stay, then Affeley need not to come..
But Walcott is 15 mil, and Affeley is only 6 mil, and he is RvP match winger in Holland.. as Walcott in Arsenal so far..
In bussiness calculation, then they will sell Walcott..
If Song is stay also, then I think M’Villa is also not needed..
Song is awsome.. Problem is Song forced to go more further to backup our attacking midfielder. If just we had an awsome AM, not only Rosicky (don’t mention Ramsey), then Song can focus for his ruled.
So we need an AM more than a DM.. Please focus on bring in an AM.. Dempsey and Nzonzi will be great..
If we bring both of them.. Than Hoillet and Kalou (for free) will be an advantage..
But I still dream for Sneijder..
Will,I don’t pretend to know that detail.
Could they start in the lower divisions,because it wouldn’t take long for them to get to league 1 or even the championship.
I honestly don’t know how the system works over there.
In a B league Will, but cant ever see the FA setting one up, but they do that in spain and other countries i think….
What the reserves/b team need is a full calendar, not just a handful of games during the season…
Today we are linked with:
Aleksandar Dragović (born 6 March 1991 in Vienna) is an Austrian footballer currently playing for Basel and previously playing for Austria Wien as a defender.
Never heard of him 😉
Question guys….a few actually.
How many young players we’ve let go have really succeeded elsewhere??
How man young players have been through the academy then reserves only to be deemed it good enough and sold?
Is our culling system in the academy inaccurate,or just not harsh enough?
Rico,I know all about him.
Just watched him on YouTube!!
Now I like the idea of a B league but there would have to be a point to it. This is hard but I believe that Wenger has shot himself in the foot a little with the constant buying of youth. Not because we lack experience but because we have just too many on the books. How many players do we have on loan, does anyone know? I would rather have less youth but those we do have have an 85% chance of making it. We have a bit of a scattergun approach at the moment.
Scott – not many but then they are still only 18 years old 😉
I see where you are coming from, i often think of Merida and maybe even Barazite, two players i wish had stayed just another year or so….
😆 Scott..
Will, we have been saying he has too many kids on the books for a few seasons, but he keeps on buying them – youth is doing one thing imho, it’s killing youth…
We have so many all around the same age group….
As for a B League, it would serve a great deal of purpose, players will learn to be more competative, learn to fight for a trophy and play regular football.
All of which will help them to become better players, the down side might be that the players are on show more and other clubs may try and poach them, but then the up side to that is, we cull our squad and the really good ones will not be sold 😛
welcom henrychan-indonesia
Hoilett is possibly off to Germany
Chavs, Mancs and dippers all want Dempsey
Kalou – he is off to Schalke, thankfully…
Nzonzi, i think he is the most likely player for us to sign, cheaper than most DM’s available and he’s French….
Can’t disagree with a word you say and I think there needs to be a meaningful trophy at the end. I agree that we have to many young players. Look at midfield alone.
I was disappointed when we ought Thomas Eisfeld.
Not because of him,as I think he will be outstanding in the future,I really do.
I’m disappointed that Wenger looked at the academy and reserves and felt the need to buy him.
Is there a dearth of talent in England??
Is there a dearth of young talent at Arsenal?
People blame Wenger and Arsenal for he apparent lack of class players coming through the club,but looking at England’s national team results,it seems our club isn’t the only one struggling to produce.
Maybe we do find the best 12-14 year olds available,but they may be the best of an average lot.
Maybe this explains why we keep looking overseas.
Just off the top of my head.
Wilshere
Ramsey
Frimpong
Walcott – I believe he is a striker but…
The Ox
Coq
I am sure there are a couple more just below the surface as well.
More than just those Will, look at how many are trying to fight for a place in the reserves – 16/17/18 year olds – we are top heavy and dare i say, we are still neglecting the defence….
Scott – i think a lot of that was down to the 50 mile rule but that has now been lifted so we could start to see more young english players being bought…
Will,ow many of those came through the academy though?
Ramsey…no.
Theo…no
Ox…no
Jack and Frimpong are the long term guys.
I’m not suggesting it’s a failure,but are we wasting time and money on some that will never make it?
Do they need to be tougher?
Scott – I cant find Thomas Eisfeld on youtube 😉
I think the youth managers need to change tack slightly. NOt think, are these players good enough to get into Arsenal, they should be thinking, are these players good enough to get into Man UTd/City/Barca as that is the level of player we need.
Morning Gooners.
Morning Rico.
Fair enough Rico.
Again,I do not pretend to know he answers,and these truly are questions.
Morning all,
SteveyP, what have the Romans ever done for us ?
Rico, you don’t half spout some garbage sometimes, keep up the good work, you’ll be rewarded in heaven.
Scott, re 10.38, that could also apply to a new manager being appointed if you get my drift, it nearly always brings out the best in players.
Rico is a goalscorer with composure in front of goal…something you can’t learn or teach.
I really like the look of him.
Oh,and I know he’s midfielder.
Micko,agreed,but it’s only usually a short term thing.
I’d put money on the fact that Di Matteo would’ve hit the brick wall if the season went much further.
Lansbury too Scott, i’d still like to see him get a chance but sadly i don’t think he will now, unless AW believes that he’s another late developer as he lost a year through ilness….
Morning AK.
Rico,that should read Eisfeld is a goal scorer.
😆 Micko, afternoon to you..
Rico is a midfilder Scott, how did you know 😉
I love Lansbury and would be very disappointed to see him leave.
Arsenal through and through,and the heart of a lion.
And RIco is also a he,apparently lol.
I know some Hammers and they are not impressed with our Henri. Poor man’s Ray Parlour is what they call him.
Morning Charlie, didn’t see you sneak in 😛
Blame Sam Will, he has it inside, just needs the right coach to help him, wish he’d gone to Bolton…
Great Post Sir Stevo.
Hi Scott.
Off to read comments
Good post steve and very true
You could be right Rico, whenever I saw him play, I thought he was not as talented as some but full of drive and passion. Maybe that is what we need in midfield, someone who will run through brick walls for the club. We seem light on that at the moment.
He’s got arsenal in his veins Will, just like Frimpong – and sometimes that’s what gets results… He isn’t afraid to shoot either and tbh, based on the last few months, I’d rather see him in the side than Ramsey….
Will,you definitely need heart in a squad.
Someone to make a last ditch tackle,chase their arse off or just run,run and run some more.
Henri is not lacking skill,he’s just not as silky smooth as some.
Have to nip off for a couple of hours, few things to do before watching HRH again 🙂
Laters all…..
So replace Ramsey with Henri but when does he get to play? Rosicky and Arteta have to play and if Wilshere is fit, he needs to start.
Will,he can play cup ties and be on the bench…..he still needs time and experience.
Scott, what would be your starting 11?
Gee Will,thats a tough one,not knowing who will come in.
scz, sagna, boss, bfg, santos, verm, arteta, rosicky, theo, pod, rvp bench, gibbs, coq, jenks, ryo, miquel, martinez, campbell
Morning all. Good post SteveP; controversial as always and makes room for debate. Do we put our young Gunners to the test and suffer the same faith early in the season under ManU or bring in the professional mercenaries mixed with the young Gunners to get the work done? I will go with the latter
Vernat,TV5 as DM,I like that.
Song not even on the bench…..do you know something??
Scott, I mean with who we have now.
I would play a 4-4-1-1 formation.
Ches
Sagna – Kos – Verm – Gibbs
Theo – Arteta – Frimpong – Ox
Van P
Pod.
Maybe change Frimpong for Song.
sorry to say forgot all about song but I stil quite like my team, song for verm maybe or for rosicky more likely. Think verm would give us energy and drive in there and the bfg would give us organisation and calmness in defence
Will, 11.16;
This is off the top of my head so i may have missed a couple;
Botelho, Wellington, Galindo, Bendtner, Denilson, Arshavin, Vela, Mannone, Campbell, Ryo, Frimpong, Bartley, Lansbury, Shea, Murphy, Hoyte, Aneke, Afobe, Yennaris, Martinez, Boateng.
I’m sure there’s a couple more!
How many of those are good enough to get into the teams better than us?
I don’t mind that at all Will.
Yep,I’d out Song in,but he and Arteta wild work well together,and RVP feeding Podolski could be very dangerous.
Looks great.
And in answer to your question Scott, i know nothing about anything and the older i get the less i know about anything at all.
AK, commented the other day after seeing some footage on Wellington that he is just brilliant at beating his man.
He looks the goods,and apparently has settled right down recently.
You’re about as useless as I am then,hey Vernat lol??
No much worse than that Scott i am a pom remember immediate disadvantage over an ocker to start with
Scott, i liked your comment on an Arsenal B.
Plus Rico’s suggestion of a B league.
Reserve football is, in most cases, inadequate when it comes to preparing youngsters for the rigours of the EPL.
Therefore the clubs useage of the loan system.
Coquelin’s progress has shown the value in this and i believe that most fans would consider him an important member of the senior squad.
Vernat,I won’t hold that against you.
AK,Coquelin has improved more in a short period of time than anyone would’ve envisaged I’d say.
Scott, also remember that by Van P dropping deep, it opens passing avenues to the flying machines on the wing and by having an out and out striker already in the box and Van P backing up, we would create more chances.
It is becoming a bit of a joke now with some of the players we have signed, look at Botelho, didn’t we sign him 3 or 4 years ago, is it gonna be the same with Wellington, I remember he was a bit of a coup at the time, talk was he would go straight into the 1st team squad but we couldn’t get a work visa for him and that was 2 years ago, is he gonna go down the same route as Botelho ? It’s bordering on farcical signing these type of players if we can’t obtain special work permits in the first place, I can’t be arsed to even raise an eyebrow when I hear their names mentioned anymore, we might never see them playing at the emirates.
Have to agree with you there Micko.
Myachi gets one no problems……who makes these decisions???
Bloody ridiculous situation.
The Man Utd board make the decisions
The thing is Will, I have no idea how good they really are, impossible to watch their games over here to make a fair comment but if Botelho is even half decent why haven’t we seen him before now.
I’d like to think we have nothing to do with their wages but I bet that ain’t the case either.
I do sympathise with that view Mick.
Although i think Campbell should get a work permit.
Funny how ManUre never have a problem???
I think there is a lack of balls at the youth training ground. We produce highly skilled players but how many truly have that drive to win the very top level have?
Don’t that any of the players’, loaned to Spanish clubs, have cut the mustard.
So maybe the answer is loan our kids to Ligue Un and Eredivisie clubs.
Take them out of their Spanish comfort zone.
Prepare them better for the EPL in the more similar environment of French & Dutch football.
Just a thought?
Agree kev, Campbell should be in the mix next season, a starter for the league cup games and a few appearances from the bench, ease him in gently.
Campbell has played internationals,so he’ll have no problems.
It’s a strange situation,as these guys would hardly be coming to the country looking for work,would they??
I wonder if Flamini and Diarra would have left if they had been given the games Flamini i think felt that the last season was a too little too late situation and Milan were paying more. Hope we dont see that with some of the other youngsters players
Afternoon all….
Afternoon Rico,
Off to bed now,so goodnight all.
Nighty Scott…
off to cut the grass before the rain comes, back in ten 😉
afternoon all
Scott, Hulk is a fantastic player.
Back again, JM, that good??
Hulk, fantastic..?
Not sure on that one JM…
Can’t say he’s ever excited me too much.
But then you see a lot more of him.
What is the fee?
£38million…..!!!
Insanity…
jeorgebird youth:
Besiktas have opened negotiations with Arsenal over the possible permanent transfer of midfielder Oguzhan Ozyakup, according to Turkish media reports.
Charlie – no player is worth £38 Million imno….
Afternoon people.
Just a quick break to post here.
Interesting article and if you had followed the style of Wenger signing players, you will ntoe that Wenegr always said “this player is interesting…” and we will neve rknow whetehr he had submited a bid or not.
I read elsewhere previously that once Wenger started seriously discussion with his target, they are all sworn to secrecy and the deal is off if this code of silence is broken.
For those agents claimng that they had been approached by Arsenal FC, it is either the deal was off and the agent is trying to plug his player like a whore to the hghest bidder.
Vertonghen?
M’vila?
I doubt whether this deal had took off at all. And either the deal with M’vila is already sealed like Poldolski or it was off and dead in the water.
Bear in mind that Wenger had not spent over 20-mil for any player as he had claimed that no player is worthed that much.
Time and time again, Wenger had reiterated that he makes “worldclass player” and not buy ’em at such a hefty price.
His football coahcing and tactical formation is unique and needed all his youngsters to learn to play his WengerBall at youth level, and not “unlearned” from bad habits like Walcott is still struggling to learn WengerBall which needs intelligent players, instant decision making like the French Spine and Cesc, superb peripheral vision like Bergy, Pires, Henry and Vieira. And instant ball control and superb technique like Van Persie to play as “Lone Striekr” and in the forward line.
The failure of last season is simply that we don’t have a “Cesc” with his superb vision, quick football brain that always look up and thinking 2 or 3 steps ahead of his opponent like a snooker player…and instantly “pass and move” anticipating a return pass and moving along to create space for himself knowing that he will receive the ball back after a few passes.
many a tiimes you can see the frustration fo Cesc that after some fine blindside running into open space into the box in anticipation of a quick return pass..only for an Arsenal player to brign the ball OUT OF THE BOX or indulge in Crab FOotball with plenty of sideway and backward passes.
That si why I said that Wenger wil need at least 3 years to rebuild this current crop of youngsters to play WengerBall, and to be another French SPine that devleops telepathic understanding in “pass and move” football…and not Crab Football for teh pass 3 season since 2007/08 season with Rosicky-Flamini-Cesc-Hleb Midfield.
We geniunely has a fine crop of youngsters in Aneke, Benik, OX, Koscielny, Gnarby, Toral, Coquelin, Campbell, Wellington SIlva, and a few more.
Perhaps, with a few astute buys and a fully fit squad, we may surprise a few teams next season……
But don’t get yoru expectation too high as by 2013/14 season, we will know whetehr Wenger’s Youth Project is a definitely dud or we will see a brand-new Arsenal team that can dominate premiership and Europe as well.
People, it si TEAM that wins titles and trophies else Abu Dhabi City and Chelski will sweep all ahead of ’em with those obscene amount fo money they are spednign to snap up all those worldclass whorish palyers that sold themselves to the highest bidders.
Remember how Denmark 1992 and Greece 2004 won Euro Nation Cup?
How BRUM beat Arsenal at CC Cup FInal? It is TEAM.
Just tried to cut my grass Rico but it is a swamp.
That’s some comment Merlin 😉
I reckon with the right kind of signings we will surprise a few this coming seasons and beyond, but first we have to make those signings…
3 more is a minimum imho – and that includes a keeper, however, the injury to fabianski may have scuppered any chance of him leaving….
Mine looks lovely now Will 😛
does anyone know how serious Fabianski’s injury is?
Good Afternoon Fine Folk.
Hope you all are ok.
Good post Sir SP. I agree with your post, but also happen to see the views of Scott and Merlin as great ones also.
Rico…..are you sure that no player is worth 38 million??? Cesc, Messi, Ronaldo. Would’nt you buy them for that amount???
Merlin is spot on. It is a team which wins not individuals although if individuals work in a team it will help immensely.
Perhaps Wenger is eyeing bargains such as:
– Affelay, Van Persie best pal. WIth Affelay, we can sell Walcott to Chelski if he refuses to sign the contract extension plus CHelski or Liverpool submits a decent 20+ mil bid for him.
We have OX, a ready make replacement for Walcott, plus with Van Persie, Poldolski, Gervinho, OX, Benik, Ramsey, Joel Campbell..and Affelay, our Forward Line is spoilt for choice.
If we buy Dempsey and Yossi as squad player…..
– De Jong, a better option than M’vila as he is proven in premiership and gives us a 2-year transitory period for Coquelin, Frimpong, Yennaris, Toral, Aneke, Lansbury, Ramsey, WIlshere plus othehr 18-year old youngsters to mature into the team in readiness to step up the plate by 2013/14 season.
We can only select two players in 4-2-3-1 from a pool of SOng, Arteta, De Jong, DIaby, WIlshere, Ramsey,,,,,COquelin, Frimpong, Yennaris, Lansbury……Toral??
If Van Persie submits a transfer request, will Wenger and GAzidis live up to thier words that Van Persie will not be sold at any price..to the extent of allowing him to leave on a Bosman in July 2013?
Or perhaps, snap up Huntelaar as a direct replacement for Van Persie or signs Drogba on a Bosman for a lucrative 2-year contract?
Merlin we are on the same wavelength today mate. Huntelaar is a fave of mine.
devilgunner says:
June 4, 2012 at 4:03 pm
Merlin is spot on. It is a team which wins not individuals although if individuals work in a team it will help immensely.
____________________________________________
Yes, D_G, like how Denmark won the 1992 Euro with great individuals working immensely as a TEAM.
Or France 1998 and Spain 2008 and Spain 2010.
Unlike Holland 70s and 80s where great individuals destroyed the TEAM due to EGO and Individualism with almost every players greater than the TEAM.
No wonder the Dutch GENERATION never won a World Cup.
The problem is that Van Persie and Huntelaar can’t get along or can’t played together.
Apparently, the “German stint” had matured Huntelaar and is starting to fulfil his potential.
I think he is that type of “Targetman” and instinctive centre forward that we are missing since the days of Ian Wright, and to a certain extent, Eduardo in 2007/08 before his injury.
In fact, Jose Reyes joined us 2 or 3 seasons too early as if he had joined us after Henry left, I believe he is that kind of mobile centre forward we need as a replacement for Henry..with Cecs pulling the strings in MIDFIELD then..******sigh******** what a waste with Henry’s Death Stare and all that jazz then..
Pity also Vela is a “”and can’t settle down in England….
Merlin, good points.That is kinda what I said earlier. We need a team of top class experienced good players with the youths given time to grow. I would love Huntlaar at Arsenal.
Afternoon devil – clubs would have to to sign them, but i just think the price of footballers has got out of all proportion….
Hi all.good read steve but did you seriously not know about podolski beforehand?
Always a pleasure to read your posts Merlin.I agree with you about wengerball but sadly i don’t think we play it anymore.we have no identity at the moment.
I recalled what a stubborn or blind Wenegr did:
Kolo was begging for Wenger to sign hsi brother as he claimed he was better than him…and for whatever reason he didn’t. Wenger claimed it was “work permit” problem but it is rubbish as it did not stopped him from signing Denilson (Special Talent permit), Botelho, Vela, Galindo, Campbell, Ryo, Wellington SIlva……
Eduardo claimed Modric is superba dn Wenger “must” signed him up……Wenegr than laughed it off and said he doubt whether a frail Modric will survive the physical English Game.
Cesc was begging Wenger to sign his good friend Torres…and worldcalss players to challenge for the title……
Van Persie was begging him to sign his good friend Van de Vaart last season…….and if a daft Wenger still has not got the signal on Afellay…and Dutch players like De Jong…..
I doubt whether Van Persie will ever sign a new contract extension as he knew from apst experience from Kolo to Cesc, Wenegr never kept hsi words on signing “worldclass players” and only hinted he ‘needed to sign experinced players..”…mind you, ”
hinted and interested only”..but nary did Wenger ever “promised or committed” to sign any worldclass players..but only DOublespeakese or Wengerese in “I find this player interesting..he is superb and a worldclass player…” ….but never outright saying in public “yes, I am trying to sign him this summer..”
The players are growing into it KT. We saw it in fits and starts last season. It takes time. HOwever I feel that with new additions in the form of new signings and young promoted ones we would be able to do it and win at the same time.
Hi Kt…
Afternoon all,
Reading through the comments i see many good idea’s and proposals the ones that always brings a smile to my face is we only need two perhaps three quality players to make the differnce. I look at comments like that and can see the sense behind them, but then i think to myself that will three players be able to do all that and win us the premier league, maybe maybe not. But the thing i am convinced on is that if Theo used the skills that he has been gifted with with Ramsey’s undoubted skills and Gervinho with all his clever play combined with Arteta’s artistry Songs power and forward runs Sagna’s solid defending style Vermin and kos’s solidity and Gibbs’s skills building, Robin And Pod leading the field and Jack as fit as ever, then yes we could win the league even without 3 signings but they all have to work together be more consistent and put another 50% effort in from last season make no mistake we have the team to win the league but they all have to want it a sight more than they do now and that is for sure.
Rico re 4.02, not too serious, reports say the bus went under him.
Thats exactly the problem devil.once they are now growing into it we sell them 🙁 thats why rvp leaving no matter how much money we get is a disaster.this is much bigger than rvp or anyone.we have to put an end to this vicious cycle that we have created.we have become a feeder club and at this rate we’ll never have that team we all want.
Wengerball was defending at midfield, getting the ball and within three passes, have an attack on goal.
Is any of that factual Merlin, i know in cesc’s programme he was ‘telling’ wenger to sign David Villa, not Torres…
yaya, well didn’t he muck up in his trial?
I personally don’t rate Modric but VdV, i feel we missed a trick with him.
😆 Micko, most things do….
Rvp wants to win the Euros then the CL…he’s off then.
I honestly think this squad is close to winning things. I also have in the back of my mind we have teams in our league who can lose almost £200M in one season.
I read that earlier Kt, he said that he is concentrating only on the euros right now and not arsenal, there is plenty of time for that he said. And he said he wants to always being playing CL footie…
Didn’t see where he said he was off though?
We have always had a squad that is close to winning things, we also have a stubborn manager/board who won’t by 2/3 players to take us one step further…. and win things….
I think Wenger may have learned from the start of last season.
KT and everyone……….RVP will be sold. Not leave out of his own will. All the big earners will be sold before season 2013 starts. So expect RVP, Theo and Song to go. Then when FFP sets in clubs can only spend only 50% of their income on salaries. That means that practically everyone will be playing on a level field when it comes to wages. That is why clubs like shitty and the chavs are promising heaven on earth to players at the moment since then they will be bound by contract and cannot leave to be paid less. Then when UEFA orders a clampdown on wages they will say….we have to pay what is in the contract, knowing fully well that players will not want to leave for less, Take Adebayor….he does not want to leave shitty until his contract expires, and shitty pay half his obscene wages. Then when he is free he will go to the highest bidder. The same goes for Na$ri and others.
Fine Folk…….cant you see that if UEFA employ FFP and the 5+6 rule many clubs will be in deep shit??
Whether we like it or not AFC are moving within these lines and have been preparing for it since the move to the Ems. We can only wait and see if UEFA has the balls to apply these rules and chuck the rule book at those clubs which do not conform.
Consider this scenario………..Shitty give Na$ri 200kpw. They will keep on paying him until they take part in the CL.
Then Uefa tell them that they cannot take part in the CL due to excessive losses. So Na$ri will demand to leave as he wants to play in the CL. So 1) he asked for a transfer so Shitty do not owe him the rest of the contract and 2) he has to accept whatever the club he goes to will give him…..say Bayern offer him 60kpw. Shitty are in the clear in this. But if they wanted to get rid of him they had to pay the whole of his contract……..and will be in the situation that AFC are or where in with Almunia, Denilson, Bendy, AA etc.
The next two months will tell us whether he has, but I have my doubts.
just get decent EPL experienced players. preferably English
Eden hazard ( sounds like a gay activist ) I’ve heard too much about him. He’s a non event with feet
devil – i have to disagree re RvP, I truly believe he will stay, regardless of whether he signs a new contract…
I really hope we don’t sell Theo either and Song, well I have a feeling that selling him and Theo would really cheese our captain off….
D_G, it is not a level playing field and there are “loop holes” when marquee clubs banded togetehr to threaten UEFA.
Remember the days fo G-14 when they threatened to form their own Pan-European League and demanded changes in the then European Cup knock-out tournament?
And how UEFA bend over and formed the current CL Cup Group Stage format?
When the likes of Real, Barca, Milan, Inter, PSG, CHelski, ManU, ABu Dhabi City, Malaga, Anzhi, et al can’t comply with FFP by 2013/14, expect UEFA to bend over to ’em when they threatened again to form a “Pan-European League” all over again.
Example?
None other than Ecclestone who single-handed (with Mosley of course) to turn F1 into a multi-billion business with 12 teams only.
SImilarly, that F1 Model is exactly what Real, BArca, Milan, Inter, PSG, Malaga, Chelski, ManU, Bayern Munich, ABu Dhabi CIty, Liverpool, Tiny Totts, and even Arsenal can look froward to with frmaiton of a 16 to 18 teams playing in Pan-European League.
That is the fear of UEFA and nobody will want a permanent split of European FOotball with plenty fo sugar daddies and oil sheikhs willing to plough billions of dollars into this Professional Football.
Call me a cynic.
But with the likes of Barca, Real, PSG, ANzhi, CHelski, ManU and Abu Dhabi city being a law unto themselves, they will be bigger than UEFA comes 2013/14 when a spineless UEFA tries to impsoe FFP onto them.
You can see how contemptuous that ANzhi, Abrmaovich, Qatar and ABu DHabi thought of UEFA FP when even thsi summer, they are spending hudnreds of millions of dollars to buy 2012/13 titles and trophies.
FFP is still three years seasons, they have plenty of time to balance their books devil….
RIoc, you may be correct as Cesc was plugging for Davi Villa when he was avaialble.
But I do believe that he was also plugging for Pique to join us..then Torres when he was available….
The rest fo them are factual as it was reported by the Press as spoken by Wenger when he was interviewed at his regular Friday “Meeting the Press”.
You knowo Wengegr never refused an answer to any question asked duringn his Friday COnference.
FFP Will not work.UEFA don’t have the balls to kick out barca/madrid/inter…if they don’t toe the line.those clubs bring in lots of revenue to them and they could easily influence other clubs to form an European super league.UEFA don’t have the balls…
‘factual as it was reported by the Press’ Merlin – do the press report anything factual 😉
I see it that way too Kt, no chance will uefa put their money where their mouths are….
Steve, 4.37pm:
We never had a TEAM in 2011/12 season due to injuries and tryign to bed in those 5 or 6 new buys.
It is a mircale that we finsihed 3rd after beign 17th in Spetember…and with Tiny Totts winning 1 in 9 during he home straight…..no help durng the crucial period with Redknapp involved in HMRC Court case and that “tapping” for England job.
Imagine Tiny Totts 10 points ahead of us and leading 2-0 at home durign 1st half……they bottled it big time…every season since Lasagnegate.
You cna see the desperaiton fo Wenger in our very last game…when of all the people, SOng was designated as our creative playmaker with all hsi predictable lobs into WBA box..
If not for Fulop as Arsenal 12th player……..I can’t see us scoring really.
My take:
We do not have a TEAM last seaosn, only a TEAM in embroynic stage which needs at least 2 more years IF, and a BIG IF, that Wenger cnaan keep them all togetehr, refusing to sell Van Persie, and both Song and Walcott sign on.
If they all stay together, and the squad remains fit with key players playing at least 30 to 40 games next season, then we cna really challenge for the title with at least 2 or 3 more experienced players to fit intot he existign squad.
2nd point:
Wenger must get his tactical formation correct with support – a 20+ goal player – to support Van Persie; another wing froward as alternative to Gervinho and Walcott; and a vital creative playmaker that will keep SOng doing what eh does best – DCM; and with an unpredictable forward run from deep as playmaker to unsettle tight defence.
If Song can play like Lothar Matteus, then Wenger will need to buy a ‘Gunther Netzer” to complement Song there….
If that Aneke-Benik pairing that alleged had developed a telepathic understandign from their days with Youth teams…then next season, we will have a nucleus of a 3rd TEAM…..providing both of ’em fulfilled their potential plus with Gnarby,..Yennaris, Coquelin, WIlshere, OX…..
Not forgetting we sitll have oldies like Rosicky, Arteta, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Mertesacker, Gibbs, Sagna, Santos, Gervinho, Diaby,..when they are fully fit….
Most interestignt o observe Wenger tryign to find the best fit and tactical formation for 2012/13 squad.
Chavs have confirmed the signing of Hazard then…..
Hazard – Another player who didn’t want to fight for his place…
He said: ‘I’ve always said I wanted to play in England. There was a struggle between Chelsea and United, but according to me Chelsea has the best project.
‘When they won the Champions League I told myself, “why not Chelsea?”.
‘The team is young and I have a better chance to play there. At 21 Real or Barca would have been more difficult for me. If I play well enough at Chelsea I could win my place in the starting team.’
rico says:
June 4, 2012 at 5:15 pm
FFP is still three years seasons, they have plenty of time to balance their books devil….
__________________________________
Rico, not a snowball chance in hell they cna all balance the books wihtin 3 years with turnover increase to enable them to spend 50% on salaries.
Even in 2011/12 season, I suspect Arsenal FC will spend more than 50% on salaries alone.
Imagine Abu DHabi CIty is spending 170-mil on players’ salaries.
They then need at least 340-mil quids turnover by 2014/15 season.
CHelski?
With a craxzy Abramovich set to spend anther 750-mil to rebuild an ageing Mourinho TEAM…….
And if Guardiola is to tkae over and set to brign in his own SPanish players…certainly, Abramovich may very well spend 750-mil within 3 years to challenge Abu Dhabi City for the title.
With this year as the last year we receive profits from property development, just watch Arsenal FC 2011/12 turnovers collapse from a high of 2009/10 turnovers..with contributions from Highbury Square and Queensland Road development.
One joker in the pack.
What if comes July or October when the Greece Crisis reaches te pit as Iceland Collapse?
Or one major Spanish bank failure triggering another global economy into a deep recession……
And if Israel decided to take out that Iranian nuclear plant in July…..
Especially it is AMerican election year with AMericans preoccupy with Presidential Election…..
How many football clubs will then sink into adminstration like Glasglow Ranger?
Afternoon Steve & alan….
Shame that Joey Barton got a good pasting early this morning 😉
Depends Rico.
If Guardiola joins Chelski, Hazard will certainly improves under his tutelage.
Mata-Torres-Sturridge-Hazard.
A deadly line-up if they hired a better coach than AVB.
Can you imagine a CL without Barca/madrid?…UEFA would lose too much revenue.FFP is never going to work since UEFA have much more to lose than the clubs if there was to be a standoff between the two.
Does anyone realistically think we can challenge for the league next year?
Would Pep join them though Merlin, that’s the question…
Kt, no way would uefa allow that to happen, would be nice though 😉
Esp, if Wenger/Stan/Gazidis show some balls in this TW, yes….
ESP not a chance in my opinion if nothing changes.
Rico, that Ozyakup story is a real suprise.
That kid has a lot of talent.
Wonder if he lacks patience?
Bloody shame if he leaves.
Think we might regret that one?!
Hi KT/Coach.
Busy today. Lata.
Rico i can’t see it, The drastic changes that need to happen just won’t. I see another season of throwing water bottles around.
Just hope Usmaonv pays off Stan and pumps his filthy clash into the club. Would love to see Guardiola come in, I wonder what Cesc would have to say about that!
Charlie – i was surprised too, especailly as the club thought tooth and nail to get him to sign a new contract…
Like you say, maybe fed up with waiting….
ESP, we got third with one of the worst displays i have seen from an Arsenal side for a very long time. we started the season with suspensions and injuries the like i have ever seen, played close to a dozen games with no fullbacks, Jack wilshere being out for the whole season, Our 2 special talents being sold at the end of the previous transfer window, could it have been any worse. To answer your question yes we could be contenders with the team we have now providing they all stay fit. Sagna with 2 leg breaks, yes i still think we have the team but perhaps i’m just a dreamer 🙂
The only way it will be enforced is if FIFA ban players from playing for their countries is the money teams start up a new league. No player worth his salt will want to be banned from playing for his country.
I’m not sure we need drastic changes Esp – just 3 players would make us much much stronger….
Stop conceding and we are almost there…
Off for dinner….
And for the first time in my sporting life I have been beaten in the agility exercises. And by an eight year and a half old. My son beat me by 1 second average in three out of five agility sets, And he is rubbing it in by calling me Old Man, the little rascal. 🙁
I hope so steve.
The way people talk you would think we are a washed up team with an old fool as a manager and skinflint owners, when the reality is that we have been top 4 for 15 years and are the 5th richest club in the world, the only club to have gone a whole season unbeaten even the money teams cant do that. The truth of the matter is that we are a very special club with a very special stadium managed by a very special Frenchman and that makes me proud 🙂
Well said Steve.
devil 🙁
Steve – 6th now 😉
Hi Lady. What was the news on Ozyakup??? Cant seem to find it!!!
Oui Lady. Got beaten. TBh I had seen it coming since he was taking time off from his exercises. But today he surprised me. In the first exercise I thought it was a fluke, but when he got me on the 4th and 5th exercises I had to admit defeat.
I have been doing agility exercises with him since he was four. And it is paying off. Especially in the speed off the mark over the first 5 metres. I had never been beaten over the first 15 metres and to go through it with my own son was something special. That means that my agility training is good.
Only because we brought Podolski Rico 🙂
I must confess that i have absolutely no confidence in UEFA being able to impliment FFP.
To me, it’s just a pig in a poke idea from that stupid jerk Platini. Who’ll soon bugger off to run FIFA, with an even bigger trouth for him to stuff his Gaellic snout into.
Coach, your all washed up…
Just give up… 😀
Calling it a night now as i am going to watch history on TV the worlds biggest concert so nte all 🙂 Only in England
Washed up??? dont bet on it mate. I have been keeping the same time records for the past 5 years. Its just that he is bettering his records all the time. 😉
what has happened with Ozyakup habib??? cant seem to find the story.
He is in talks with Besiktas for a move devil…..
be proud of your son, don’t be sad 😉
Ha ha Steve, enjoy the concert and catch up tomorrow….
enjoy your evening Sir SP. Night mate.
Of course I am proud of it Lady. Happy and feeling weird at the same time. Never gone through it. But glad its against the little prince. 🙂
Besiktas of all teams??? Why not send him on loan???
Not sure what happened with Ozyakup habib.
It’s on Arsenal Youth.
Lata
can you send me the link pls????
Here you go devil
http://arsenalyouth.wordpress.com/2012/06/04/besiktas-enter-negotiations-with-arsenal-for-ozyakup/
Exactly, your lad will be proud too 🙂
I’m having an early one guys, going to catch up on the soaps..
Til tommorrow all, be safe…
Nighty night, have a good evening all….
Good night Lady.
Good night habib.
Thanks for the link. Just read it. rushed up player in my opinion. He he can make it.
Cu all tomorrow
Morning all.
Some good,positive posting overnight,it fills my heart with joy.
Merlin,some good,insightful posts….great to see ya back!!
On Ozyakup….a loan deal,me thinks.
Steve,actually taking ino account the factors that counted against the club last season actually makes you a realist,contrary to what the doomers say,I know.
How anyone could ignore injuries,losing two key players late,refereeing decisions and the like is beyond me,and proves their mindset is such that nothing will satisfy them.
Scott, it looks as if the Oguzhun Ozyakup transfer to Besiktas is going to be a permant deal.
I’ve had a nose around and this is what i understand to be the situation.
12 months ago Ozyakup stalled on signing a new deal and had a look around to see what was on offer.
He then decided on signing a 2 year deal with us, as that was probably the best he could find.
During this last season he switched his allegence from Holland to Turkey.
Maybe he saw more opportunities for himself with Turkey at International level..?
In the meantime he has probably decided to ask Arsenal for a move, as he sees more chance of 1st team football in Turkey.
Apparantly Besiktas will pay a fee of £560,000, and Arsenal will get 25% of any transfer fee if Ozyakup moves on.
I imagine that the management realised that if they didn’t sell him, that he’d probably walk away in a years time anyway.
I think it’s a shame as he looked a very good player to me.
But competition, in the midfield, at Arsenal is very tough & it could be that this is the best for all concerned…
Notwithstanding the midfielders currantly in the 1st team squad, there is still a strong possibility of Wenger signing another midfielder.
Then there is, hopefully, the return to fitness of both Wilshere and Diaby.
Finally Ozyakup has to contend with his contemporaries like Aneke, Henderson and Eisfeld.
Plus the emergence of talented younger competition from the likes of Gnarby, Toral, Olsson, Jebb & Lipman.
AK,I stand corrected.
If a player doesn’t want to stay,let them go,I say,and I don’t care how good they are.
We want Arsenal layers,not us simply wearing our shirt.
The us made his decision,and I hope he goes well.
Better it happen now than in two or three years when an integral part of our squad.
Morning all….
That is the problem with being overloaded with midfielders, they all want to be playing football and they are not prepared to sit around waiting – shame he couldn’t stay and go on loan in the PL…
Howver, the fact that he switched from Holland to Turkey for international football and he is moving to Turkey might say a lot about this move.
One for Steve 😉
ARSENAL’S Per Mertesacker was labelled a weak link in Germany’s defence by Dutch legend Marco van Basten. Mertesacker played in last week’s 5-3 loss to Switzerland and Van Basten said: “He is not fully fit and has been unimpressive.”
I had my doubts about Mertesacker before we signed him. I would have much rather seen us get Cahill or Vertonghen.
Mertesacker is not mobile enough for me and despite his height, doesnt seem to really impose himself.
I hope next season we will see the very best of him though.
Morning all,
Rico 🙂 I’m sorry Merts could come good, but from what i have seen of him not in our team.
Morning LSG & Steve
Sorry guys, you are not alone, I am far from convinced by him to date – maybe his second season will be better?
Def prefer Cahill….
New Post is going up now – see you there 😛
Well I like him,and several German naional coaches have as well.
Everyone is prepared to give some players time to adapt to the PL,but not this bloke….funny that.
Cough cough Scott, i’m hoping his second season is better, like you say, every overseas player needs bedding in time…
I would sell him quick, but know that won’t happen, but some believe he will come good so another season should tell us all we need to know, I’m normally wrong anyhow 🙂