Morning all.
A dreadful afternoon on many levels. The persistent rainfall, the very underwhelming Arsenal performance and perhaps the most odd Arsenal display was from the manager himself. Since when did he sit in the dugout with a tracksuit on? Come on Arsene, get back to the suit and red tie, please!
Perhaps the relaxed approach by Le Boss filtered through to the players because they really were off their game and on days like yesterday, the old complacency accusation will always be thrown at the team..
Can’t say that about Petr Cech though as he really was at the top of his game and made a number of crucial saves to keep the scoreline at 0-0. Then in the second half, when it was hard to see where a winner would come from, up popped Laurent Koscielny to nick all three points.
And to be fair, we did nick all three points because Newcastle gave as good as any side at The Emirates has this season, well, apart from Man Utd of course and as easy as it to identify Arsenal’s failings, a bit of credit has to be given to Steve McClarens side. They bossed the midfield, had the better clear cut chances on goal and overall, gave a lot more than our boys did and it wasn’t until the dying minutes of the game, that we really looked a threat going forward and at that stage of the game, protecting the lead should surely have been more important?
Regardless, we hung on and secured three points.
Man Utd, City and Chelsea have won many a Premier League title by winning matches in a similar fashion to the way we did yesterday and the footballing world were in raptures over them, so why shouldn’t we make the most of a bit of good fortune, especially after a busy festive period.
We all know this Arsenal team can play a lot better than they did yesterday, in fact they have played much better but not always have they earned three points at the final whistle…
We needed to win, and that’s exactly what we did so I’m pretty happy.
Morning all.
Job done.
Put that performance to the side and pocked the 3 points.
We must improve, but we all know we can as we’ve shown plenty of times this season.
FA Cup next, so rotation, or does he go for it again…?
An away fixture on the Wednesday after that match against Liverpool…
Tough one, Rico.
I’d be tempted to at least rest Ozil.
“Since when did he sit in the dugout with a tracksuit on? ” 🙂
Good!
So would I Scott, maybe one or two more too..
Gabriel, Ospina and Campbell will no doubt all start, Chambers, Gibbs and Debuchy too if they are all still with us…
Wouldn’t start Alexis though, leave him for the Liverpool game..
Walcott and Giroud could do with a break too but what’s in reserve?
You like the tracksuit Jm? 😉
Probably lost the puffer jacket franchise! He’s been up rated to tracksuit ‘working’manager!
Morning all. Dull, wet but not windy here.
Rico, as far as Alexis goes, I’d rather we bring him back a week too late rather than one too soon.
Dreadful here Wavy, very windy, pouring with rain and my garden is like a huge puddle.. 🙁
Ditto Scott…
I just read Wenger changed into the tracksuit ST halftime due to his suit being saturated.
Boring explaination lol
Morning All, just catching up…
Stokes and Bairstow, that is quite amazing and very exciting for the future…
With our new Aussie coach and a clutch of young, attacking players, we could be in for some interesting years of cricket in all its formats…
If Ramsey proved anything yesterday it was that his best position is right of midfield, where his wunderlust don’t leave our back-four exposed…
We’re really beginning to miss Le Coq now.
But if Wengers hints are accurate, both Coq and Santi could return early’ish…
Fingers crossed…
Scott, that’s what happens when I don’t tune in until half-time… Why didn’t he have a brolly? 😉
Not sure Rico.
I didn’t notice the suit or tracksuit, to be honest lol.
Well done Jonny Bairstow…
Maiden ton…
Ton up for Jonny 🙂 🙂
Great cricket, it really is….
Maybe you were sleepy Scott… lol
Kev, are you watching the cricket?
Thought Campbell improved us once he came on yesterday, on his recent performances, surely AW will be keen to keep him…
Good Morning to The Lady of the House and all fellow Gooners in residence.
Rico – An accurate assessment of the game I’m afraid.
Ramsey is a liability in the DM role. He is all over the place trying to everyone else’s job, but not his own. He should have passed instead of shooting. I’m not sure who he is trying to impress. It certainly isn’t me.
Arsene should play young Chambers, at least until Aaron is willing to show some defensive discipline. Even better Arsene, buy a certified top level DM during the January transfer window.
Talksport apparently:
Following the 1-0 win over Newcastle United, Wenger was asked if he would care to comment on any of the latest transfer rumours regarding Arsenal, to which the Frenchman replied: “I don’t give much away [about transfers] because I don’t know [what’s going on].
“I want to talk about them and hopefully we are capable of doing something in the next 10 days.
“It’s more about quality than quantity because our players will not stay out injured forever. Francis Coquelin is starting to run, Santi Cazorla will be back in mid-February, and Mikel Arteta is back now so, hopefully, if we can add one and, if needed, two maximum.
“It’s not a dream. Nobody knocks at your door at Christmas and says ‘I have a fantastic player to sell to Arsenal.’ You have to be realistic.”
Morning All
Morning Rico, good post…
Listening to the radio boss…
Our cricket in in a good place atm…
Who have we got touring England this summer?
Ox has been shit for two years now,i know some will but he doesnt start many games as he wishes or injuries…everytime he start a game he gives a shit performance meaning the next one he is on the bench.you have to ask yourself why this is happening?
The answer is pressure(being an arsenal player,team,media) and he is not the only one because jack is another player with th same problem.the thing is they believe the hype the media gives them.you always find them talking to the media when they should be focusing on their performancies.you rare find our best players talking with the media.that why sometimes i wish gibbs all the best because he so different from our english boys…
How do we solve this? It simple loan them out next season…jack would get a chance to fix his playing style, while ox will try to be more consistant…but there are talks of ox going on loan this jan and i hope he does because seeing a player gotze perfoming very well when he get simila playing time like ox makes me a bit worried.
I hope you all dont take it a wrong way because im not bashing bashing our players,these are straight fact we cant run away from that these two try too hard to impress that they end up getting it wrong.
I hope im not late since it my first comment in the new year so HAPPY NEW YEAR to everyone
Morning Kev & Cg.
Kev, you need to nap someone’s SkyGo password and then you could watch it… 🙂
Brolly ? McLaren would have thought he was taking the juice.
This is the 3rd season for ozil as an arsenal player,why jack isnt asking for advirse? That how you grow your game by taking notes from someone better than you.same goes with ox take notes from sanchez.
Sanchez do many wrongs but makes up for it with his work rate and goals.so the solution the solution is look up to someone like grizmann put work in,know how to pass…everything will fall in it place once you learn how to keep it simple
Rico, every time I post, I get this poxy advert for Gala Bingo…
It might explain the lack of posts on HH today?
Anyway;
Alexis…… 9th Jan
Arteta…… 13th Jan
Rosicky… 24th Jan
Welbeck.. 6th Feb
Wilshere.. 13th Feb
Coquelin.. 27th Feb
Cazorla…. 1st Mar
Those are the return dates from Physioroom…
Good Afternoon Lovelies and Hunkies.
Back from a 5k run. Weather here is heavenly and although I was a bit off colour these last few days a run always makes me feel better.
Nice match report Rico. Straight to the point and a very good assessment of the game itself.
It was a frustrating game for us supporters. But we must keep in mind that NUFC made a game of it and a game is always played 11vs11 on the pitch. Behind the scenes its usually AFCvs11+5+FA+press+away supporters. Credit to NUFC and Mclaren though.
Potter ……the juice comment cracked me. loved it. lol
Drake, mate, you put it perfectly regarding Ox. Yes I would love it if he is sent elsewhere to play. But to a place like Italy….where they teach them tactics on a very high level. A team like Sampdoria, Genoa, Sassuolo, Chievo…..would play him every game. And he would be forced to improve tactically as Italian coaches are very strict on it. Ask Theo when he was under Capello.
So yes I agree….Ox should be sent on loan for a year.
Incidentally, I was going to suggest resting Flamini for the FA Cup and play Chambers plus Elneny if he comes.
my line up would be…….
Cech
Bellerin, Gabriel, Per, Gibbs
Chambers, Elneny
Ox, Aaron, Joel
Giroud.
I think were we to loan them to other premier teams they would probably consider their Arsenal careers over . They are too far down the line for it to work. Jack’s problem is about injury not attitude but I agree about the Ox and trying too hard, perhaps he needs to realise that the work he puts in is not jut about going forward.His attacking workrate is fine but going back he seems to switch off rather like Theo did yesterday . Campbell’s cameo was a breath of fresh air but maybe it’s the coaching that needs to be more pragmatic instead of the go out and express yourself attitude that seems to prevail. I heard Ray Wilkins talking about the Chelsea youth development and the way that youngsters don’t listen and even at 18/19 yrs old think that they have made it and pay little attention to experience and after training jump into their Range Rovers and drive out to see their mates. The people guiding them can talk until they are blue in the face but if they have a £65k a week contract only the really driven will push themselves for greater success.
Happy New Year Drake..
Potter, exactly would have been funny… lol
Portuguese TV said yesterday some like this: “AW today with a tracksuit…”. Rico, i’d like to have an Arsenal tracksuit and if I am a coach, I always be at the bench with it and not with a suit and a tie (red, of course). With a tracksuit and a tie will be hilarious….
well, we rotate, but probably Debuchy will be on loan next week, we still waiting for permission for the new sign, those who are injury still injury or start their preparation, so probably on the end of January will be someone “fresh” and “new”…
Nice post Rico.
Yesterday was uncomfortable viewing, nothing new there but something that is new is that more often than not this year we are grinding out results.
The ox criticism is unfair I think, I will restrict judgement once he’s started a run of games. All players need games to find form. Granted he seems to break down with injury after a run of games…
Theo on the other hand frustrates the hell out of me, against city he showed what sort of player he can be, skillful, hard working and his pace tore them to shreds. Since then he’s been a passenger, we can’t afford any of our players to be passengers.
You shouldn’t Kev, just one and then closes I believe….
🙂 Jm..
Lewis, Walcott likes the big games, he’ll be back at Anfield…. (She types whilst hoping) lol
Devil im so happy for theo this season he really is an improved player especial his work rate…as for ox will wenger he send to italy?because those clubs you named do really allow young players grow and shine
Lol i have been saying this from i started to comment on this blog allezkez Canadian gooner &drake … Ramsey best position is right wing. I hope elnenny comes and wenger push him back wide. Ox is not arsenal quality 6 goals in 96games in five season at arsenal 2 being league goals… Overrated as usual..
Kev there is no return date for jack and welbeck(these are wenger words) the only player i look forward to have in our team is rosicky…as for arteta he is washed up.
What gabriel has to do to be a starter because we all know he is better than per…this is favourism
Not one goal 2015 lol. Didn’t he get a run of games last year
I doubt Elneny will be in by the weekend Devil, AW suggested ten days for the Permit to be granted…
Kev 12.08, sounds to me you need a cup of tea…..number 3 !
rico, Arsene like everyone in the first 20 rows would have looked like drowned rats yesterday, was definitely a first seeing him in a tracksuit matchday.
Drake, those dates are, I guess, based on the info that Physilroom gets from it’s contacts…
Wilshere’s return date has gone back, from just after Christmas to where it is now.
I suppose it’s not an exact science, as we have seen with the setback affecting Alexis.
The fact that Coq is running again, is positive…
5th Jan; Stoke vs LFC, LCSF
8th Jan; Exeter vs LFC, FAC
13th Jan; LFC vs Arsenal, EPL
Rest n rotate against Sunderland.
Have Alexis on the bench and give him a bit of a run…
Then go up to Anfield and put on a performance…
Old Arsene was up and down like a yo-yo yesterday. The weather was extremely bad. Kev and I got very wet on the way to the ground. Still, by his own admittance AW will be “very active” in the transfer window so the PL looks nailed on. 🙂
I am Mick, as I blog, supping on a cup of Yorkshire tea…
It’s pretty damned good mate…,
Micko, looked odd to me, but I guess he didn’t have a spare suit….
Hi Adam, I’m quite looking forward to seeing our fringe players getting a run out against Sunderland next weekend…
The oranges are on me… 🙂
I wonder if Big Sam will rest and rotate his players. After all, he’s going for the Premier League too. Survival… 😉
Hi Kev. The Clementines were one of the highlights yesterday mate.
Yes, I think he’ll start a few of the fringe players. I’d throw that fat walrus Allardyce a herring and then beat them convincingly.
Hope they didn’t have pips in….
One pip per fruit Rico.
Only four days between Sunderland FAC and going to Anfield…
So a tricky rotation job…
Could Hayden, Bielik, Ospina, Debuchy, Iwobi, Jeff and Crowley come into the squad..?
Gibbs for Monreal.
Chambers for Flamini.
Gabriel for Koscielny are pretty nailed on…
Ozil, Giroud, Ramsey, Walcott need a rest?
How annoying Adam, ours have had no pips.. 🙂
11.13 Kev… 😉
Great minds….
Does Theo need a rest??? lol
I would prefer him to lead the attack although in the above formation I put in Ollie. The latter does need a rest and be introduced later on. With an attack of Joel, Theo and Ox the Sunderland defenders would have many things on their minds instead of beginning attacks of their own. Then later in the game introduce Ollie and Sanchez in place of Theo and Ox and keep a front three of Joel, Ollie and Alexis.
Ozil too needs a rest, and if Elneny is signed he should partner Chambers in the middle of the park with Aaron in place of Ozil.
that would give us a back four of Bellerin, Per, Gaby, Gibbs. A def midfield duo of Chambers and Elneny with Aaron in the AM role plus an attack of Joel, Theo and Ox.
I still think that is a good line up.
But if Debchy and Ospina are angling for a move I am not sure that playing them would be a wise option. Their minds would be elsewhere and not on the game.
Afternoon all good post Rico!
This whole chat bout world class gk’s bein worth 10 points is so f-in true I mean De Gea has kept united in the top half of the season for the last few seasons Cech was the difference for Chelsea winning the league a few times and so on anyway I digress!
My point is it has been so long since we have had a keeper capable of winning us points and it feels good, damn good! Title winning form, we are told is playing badly and still winning this often involves the keeper bein MOM and Nick one of the few chances that present themselves! The MOM keeper is in place I just hope we can continue to score n win when we mite not deserve it!
If Debuchy is to go on loan to WBA then I would ask for Berahino on loan in return or maybe a permanent move what a kick in the teeth to the spuds loldiggity?
One thing is Palace with Cabaye; other, is Palace without Cabaye.
We must rest mostly of the players but it’s impossible because we haven’t enough players and it’s not a good idea make many changes in the line-up.
Ramsey, Giroud, Bellerin, etc needs a rest…
Happy new year HHers!
Tough game it was. But how shambolic were our guys (insert Ramsey and Ox here). Ramsey has managed to piss off lots of arsenal fans. How could he miss that! How do they look at Ozil after fluffing his chances?
Ox thinks he’s already made it, IMO I think he’ll never be. He’s had more than enough run of games, hell Joel played less games than him and he’s better than Ox. In every business you count and write off your losses. I say we strike Ox off. Wouldn’t miss him if Mahrez replaces him.
Ask yourself this question……..if there was no English players quota, or home grown rule in force….how many of Theo, Ox, Gibbs, Wilshere, Welbeck would have a place in the team??? I have left Chambers out because I feel he has the brains and humility to progress. He does not think he has made it.
Imo none of them would play. Personally I prefer Joel instead of Ox/Theo. I prefer NAcho instead of Gibbs. And JW10……no comments.
Oh again ox out mahrez in
True HRD, problem is superstardom gets into their heads- me thinks. I see Gibbs as calm headed too. JW and Ox are ever on IG and twitter. Am sorry these lads will never cut it.
All AW needs to do is to buy a foreign speedster (Aubemayang ??? ) and put him on the right wing. The 1st 11 would have no Englishman in it……
Cech
Bellerin, Per, Kos, Monreal
Coquelin, Cazorla
Aubemayang, Ozil, Sanchez
Ollie
As many have pointed out (Marshall being the recent one) those who are English think they have already made it. Imo, besides that reason there is another……they feel comfortable that there is a rule protecting their place. Take that away and there will be no place for them. Take that away and they will no longer cost more than 5 million each. Take that away and they will become easily dispensable. Take that away and the top 5/6 clubs will not play one single Englishman.
Recently I was telling a friend of mine that the only way that the English national team will improve is by removing the home grown or quota for the national team. My friend stood open mouthed and then I told him that real talent will begin to emerge once they begin working their socks off. It is then that they will improve….since they will not want their place to be taken.
Take Alexis…….he knows that he can easily go elsewhere like Bayern, RM, Manure, Chavs, Shitty and command a higher salary plus bigger stage atm. Why??? It’s because he is a winner with a 110% good attitude.
Are Gibbs, Theo, Wilshere and Welbeck winners???
Sorry to disappoint you…..imo they are not.
winners want to keep on improving and compete against themselves. But if a player like Ox gets around 60kpw and scores just 6 ib 96 and knows that the EPL rules are protecting his place, how much motivation does he need to keep improving??? The answer??? ZILCH
Our poor English players are getting a battering today….
I wouldn’t be so quick to write off OX, Theo or any of our home grown players myself.
Rico and Adam….I am not battering English players. Far from it. Its the reality. Answer the question I posed……How many of those English players I mentioned would claim a regular place in the starting 11 of AFC if Aubemayang was brought and everyone was fit??
Cech
Bellerin, Per, Kos, Monreal
Coquelin, Cazorla
Aubemayang, Ozil, Sanchez
Ollie
You have to remove one to include one.
Neither would I Adam… Seems rather odd really….
This could be a long afternoon. Everton are shocking!
Can’t pick a team on if’s and buts though Devil…
And as for ‘Ox out Mahrez in, well we could all go through players all over the world and select a squad we would like to have but football doesn’t work like that..
In fact Shanice, considering you profess to be an Arsenal fan, do have anything positive to say about anything to do with the club? All you do is moan and think you know everything. Not really sure why you other contributing on here. In fact you don’t really, other than to leave a negative comment every day…
Rico. Yesterday at the game I met a bloke who had bought a ticket outside from a tout.
£400. 🙂
Just as they go 1-0 up Bob 🙂
Not so bad , Spuds 1 down.
🙂 Adam, bet he was pleased…. lol
I reckon so Rico. He was there with his girlfriend, so double that and add £20 for a couple of burgers. They are talking about £1500 for the home tie against Barcelona. I’ve offered mine to Kev for £1485.50 🙂
Adam, makes a ST look like a bargain….lol
He said the tout had an incredible syrup and a carnival moustache.
Crazy money Adam, I’d love to be able to do that, although I’d skip the burger. I had a cheese and onion on my last visit and it was vile… Meanwhile, my friend stuffed a big steak and onion one, I think he was hungry… 🙂
Yes Rico but Spuds should be 4 up!
Adam, does that include the programme as well !
The fast food at the Emirates is best avoided Rico. Though the chips are better than might be expected.
Micko. No programme I am afraid. 🙂
Devil the media and the national team is killing them…look at spain there is bellerin,thiago,olivier torres,saul,valencia lb and isco they are yet to be regulars or promoted…a 16year old is a leading assist maker in la liga
Agree Bob, thank goodness for the woodwork eh…
It was only a few fried onions and a slice of cheese Adam in a bun. Can’t believe how bad it was though.. Most went in the bin… 😉
Sounds delightful Rico. 🙂
1-1
Totts 1-1 two balls hit the post
Alli again. where were our scouters in england?
I’ve watched for 3 times the same: a long ball for the belgian defender, Alli appears and scored. 3 times the same move! 3 goals for Totts!
Isn’t he English though Jm, apparently they have no brains lol.
He was very impressive at the Emirates earlier this season, schooled Cazorla that day.
As for the scouts, that’s anyone’s guess.
Jon Stones is another who’d look good in red….
Well i never critize ozil r question his value rico.. . How many here as.. And im not the only one who as question ox ability as a footballer of arsenal quality. ..i hope there is a english man to take his game one of real quality not just hype.. . Criticism is important maybe if the English media was more about substance than hype he and others ox Walcott wilshere would be better players…
Good result for us….
If ox wasn’t english.. Rico im sure u would be slattering him.. . Campbell was criticise by u
Isn’t that u being negative rico..
Perhaps that’s simply because he cost a lot of money and he’s not English Shanice….
I do wish for your sake rico there is a English player to take ox place.. And if i ever thought i knew it all i wouldn’t be reading your blog. .. Not because i am of a different view .. Every one is entitled to there’s. .isn’t that what u said.. .
Six points ahead of the Scum, that’ll take the wind out of the Middlesex mobs’ cheerleaders in the Press…
Adam, I shall give that Barcelona ticket some serious thought mate…
What if I get you a banana with your satsuma this Saturday?
A defeat for Totts everywhere, is only the good result for us
And what have I said recently about Campbell??
No because class is permanent ozil is class
You miss my point Shanice, I don’t give a toot about a players nationality, it’s you who bleating on about the English being rubbish!
🙂 Kev, I read a headline suggesting this is the Totts best chance to win the league since the 1920’s
Evening all, It seems Ox is certainly getting his fair share of stick, he hasn’t really lived up to his potential yet, but he has been plaqued by injuries which have undoubtedly hindered his development. But apart from that, his performances haven’t really helped his cause either. Some say it is a confidence issue, and I tend to agree, but definitely needs to try to avoid anymore injuries at just 22, he has a lot of time to set things right, but I would not quite write him off yet.
Well what can u say now about him.. . If ox was improving ill do the same change my tune.. But he isn’t .. Did u see ozil face when he took that shot when there was a pass on.. He needs to feel heat so we’ll know for sure if he can’t handle the kitchen. Lets see his reaction to the massive criticism he is facing now…
Kev. That’ll do me. 🙂
I here u rico.. . Lol. I can’t celebrate r support average that’s affecting arsenal.
Neither would I write him off yet either Dublin, I think there’s a great player in there and it’ll soon come out…
That’s a deal Adam, in fact, I’ll even throw in a kiwi fruit… ?
1951 and 1961…
That’s it for the Spuds, Rico…
Easy to remember as it doesn’t happen hardly ever.
And long may that be the case.
The injury excuse continues.. Even vanpssy was injured regularly but when he was fit for two three games he showed his quality. . Ox has gotten games also he didn’t get any massive injurys like Ramsey so y is he so fragile in his mind… Weak mentally
Anyway …….exit…. ..
Just kidding Kev 😉
Maybe it,s the mentality side that has to be worked on, same with gibbs and Theo, but I don,t think there should be any doubting their talents.
Good Evening Lovelies and hunkies.
Please do not get me wrong. I would love to see AFC field a side of highly technical English players. Infact I would like to see AFC beat the record they set in the 1930’s of the most English players present in the national team.
DG, technically Gibbs, Ox, Danny, Jack etc are skillful. They have to be in order to play at the highest level.
However, as you said…..its the mentality and attitude that has to be worked on. But a mindset cannot be easily changed. It has to be intrinsic. So they need to listen and learn. Of all the above I feel that Theo and Jack are too deep rooted in their mindset. Danny might change as he will be allowed to express himself. Gibbs might change if he gets the right coaching. Chambers is at the most advantage…..he learns from Per, Kos, Gaby, Coquelin and Cazorla.
Theo has been much much better this season, tracking back and defending too. A bad game yesterday when so many were off their game was hopefully just one of those days…
Devil/Dublin, perhaps that’s where the managers approach comes into their game?
True devil, how can you change the mindset of these players, as we know AW truly believes that his team have the mentality and mental strength to go on and win the title, I suppose May will tell us a lot, and until we win something big they will have to live under that cloud,
A different manager may well change the mentality, Rico. It,s hard to say.
you have to feel Van gaal is really putting his head on the chopping block with his 35, 40 million pursuit of Felipe Anderson from Napoli ,a 22 year old attacking Midfielder of who reports have said he is infuriatingly inconsistant. good luck with that luis.
Catch up tomorrow, night guys…
I think he’s a bit too protective Dublin, but then I don’t know what goes on behind the scenes so I could be totally wrong….
Night….
Rico, this season Theo has stepped up for sure. But at his age he should be terrorising defences. Just look at Alexis. Same age bracket. But different levels in attitude.
Yes you are right regarding the manager’s approach. But when Capello tried to make Theo understand tactics and where he wanted him to go, Theo’s face went blank.
I still see their attitude as a problem though. Gibbs does not have an attitude as JW. However, I feel that his place in the team BN (before Nacho) was guaranteed only because he was English.
Good night Lady.
Incidentally……do you remember how many times we slaughtered Gibbs BN??? Many times.
Now, the few times he has played, how many times has he been slaightered?? Imo he played really well. Not on Nacho’s level though, as Gibbs is more attack minded, but i feel he has observed how Nacho goes about his business and he has learned to adapt.
I feel that if Nacho leaves AFC in the summer (I hope not), AW will not buy a new LB. Rather, Gibbs will become 1st choice with AW getting a younger LB, or promoting from within.
Lay off AR16 all…
He needs MA08 next to him to play better in CM.
Night Rico, I think the problem with Gibbs was, he had the no,1 position far too young, when a mentor would, ve been better for his development, his willingness to get forward was sometimes naive as it often left huge space behind. Maybe now he is learning from Nacho, which can only be a good thing
I,ve always said i,d like to see Gibbs tried as a winger with a player like Nacho behind him.
Night devil.
Gibbs is going backwards in my opinion and Wenger’s insistance in playing him forward whilst he tries to shut games down doesn’t really help. Most of the time when he gets the ball he just holds it and passes inside or backwards I agree he is really a squad member but keeps the quota up.
Good night everyone.
We may all have our different opinions….but at the end of the day its what the 11 which are on the pitch which count, whether they are English or not…….we should always support them.
Hiya Ginge. how are you???
tsgh, quite enjoyed the last 10 minutes of the Ozil & Ramsey show myself, they were linking up lovely, couldn’t tell ya what they were doing for the previous 80 minutes though.
Suddenly I’m reading Ramsey is better played wide, yet it’s obvious to everyone his best performances have been when played central.
Gotta laugh.
The one time he apparently did play a more defensive role was exactly the same game that our forwards put in a shift and defended.
Coincidence?
Seems am not the only one criticising the English players. The truth is they are average. Someone here said they all have talent. That’s funny if you say Walcott and Gibbs are talented. The one thing they both have is pace, no brain, can’t dribble, one dimensional, switch off often in games, tactically poor(can’t blame them for that, all English players tend to share that problem) and poor attitude. Ox and Welbeck is another story, they both have everything physically – pace, can get pass opponents even if it’s not magical, physical, stamina, body balance, shot but they have no footballing brain. Wilshere is obviously the most talented but he’s hunted and when he plays, he hardly improve us. The big question is if there’s no home grown rule, how many of our English players will be with us?
Gibbs is the most useless. He can’t defend, he can’t attack, can’t keep possession, injury prone, no brain. Why wenger always bring him on when defending a lead, I will never know. Our performance level tends to drop anytime he’s on.
tsgh
JANUARY 3, 2016 AT 8:36PM
Lay off AR16 all…
He needs MA08 next to him to play better in CM.
I think that can work but not this current Arteta. And ramsey seems to have lost all disciplines these days.
Xhaha will be the perfect signing. Tidy Passer, discipline, Composure, tall and athletic.
Sukky, it’s all a matter of opinion. But I do find labelling Gibbs as useless is rather daft, as is suggesting both he and Walcott have no footballing brain…
The latter scored a stunning goal just a couple of matches ago and s having a good season and when he Ozil, Alexis and either Ox or Campbell are playing up front together, the system works rather well I think.
Still, we are top of the league and have just won a match whilst playing crap, so there’s every reason to moan I guess…..
Morning all…
Morning All…
It’s quite amazing that Arsenal are top of league, when so many of our players are useless…
Just goes to show what a brilliant manager Wenger is I suppose?
Morning Rico… 😉
Isn’t the January Window exciting zzzzz
Morning Rico and Kev. I could comment but I won’t 🙂
Pierre Emerick Auberayang, or something like that, looks to be a headline grabbing rumour that’ll be recycled, endlessly, by those usual shite blogs, full of adverts and pop ups and cookies and god knows what else, for the rest of the month and beyond.
And if all fails, Zlaten Ibrahimovitch is always good for a headline or two.
Hey Morning Adam…
Bring back Merlin… 😀
The reason we are top of the league is the brilliance of our 3 world class players. Cech, Koscielny and Ozil. A man who save anything that comes his way, a defender that’s not only doing his job but giving up chances with his good passing range and the best number 10 who created staggering 9 chances in a game.
Morning Kev and Adam.
Wenger must be an absolute genius Kev…. lol
Never said all our English players are useless, I said Gibbs is useless while others are average.
Merlin? Now you’re talking Kev. 🙂
Crikey, no Alexis behind the reason we are top of the league, nor the goals from Campbell, Ollie, Theo and Gabriel and no praise for Cazorla and Coquelin who were very good in the first half of the season…
Just a three man team it is then…
Never said others didn’t contributed even Walcot of all people contributed greatly. But that doesn’t mean with upgrades on Ox, Flamini, Arteta, Walcott, Gibbs, we won’t be way better. I didn’t mention alexie among our world class players who contributed this season because if he’s any near the level he was last season, we would’ve been 12 points up by now.
Morning Rico and all…
Micko, that link up play in the last 10 minutes was a reward for the the die-harders who had not left during the proceeding 80 minutes. 😉
AW is useless as we know; the best managers like Mauren-ho work for short periods and get big pay-off bonus after getting sacked….
The world has gone mad; whats with all the flood catcats getting 6 figure bonuses whilst ‘regular’ folks homes are still flooded
Doesn’t Ollie deserve a slating too Sukky, he’ll feel left out if you don’t mention his lack of pace or ability to finish enough of his chances….
Interesting looking at goals for and against with and without Le Coq.
I doubt AW will be hurrying to get the ‘beast’ of a CDM sections of fans want…
Gibbs has regressed but that’s surely down to lack of game time?
Wilshere will always be a perma crock and I’d of sold him a while ago….
Chamberlain is a mystery, really flatters to deceive imo…
Walcott blows hot and cold but is definitely tracking back more this season than any other…
preceding*
Rico. I’ll do the Ollie slating today if you like. 🙂
I think the last 5 minutes link up play between Ozil and ramsey is down to Newcastle losing their shape and committing more men forward in search for a equalizer. Some fans said it’s because Giroud and Walcott are useless.
To be honest, I think it’s unfair to Giroud for most of his slating. He’s never gonna be suarez or lewandoswki but he’s using everything to help the team. He’s hardworking, committed and his stats are way better than the average British players you worship. His hold up play is great, his passing is good, he defend, he assist and he score goals.
Morning Ts..
Sukky. Where do you sit in the stadium to gain all these fascinating insights?
Sukky- I think Gibbs has been far better than even the likes of over rated baines for a long time; so maybe you a bit harsh on Gibbs.
Theo- is a big game player and so is always useful…
Ox- definitely definitely over rated; I have been saying that since we signed him but fans liked his explosive no end product football so…
JW10- well, he should never have been given that no.10 shirt imho…; when i think of number 10’s I think of modern greats like DB10, Ruud, Hagi, Laudrup, Baggio, ToTti, kaka. Not even mentioning the likes of Puskas.
Gibbs- I rate but obviously was moved from a no.11 position to no.3 position for obvious reasons. He lacked composure he infront of goal.
comparing Monreal to Gibbs would be a bit unfair as Monreal before Euros 2012 was the best LB in La liga eventhough before that he played loads of time under Pelle’ as a no.6 next to Toulalon and sometimes SC19…
Behind the Goalkeeper
Which end?
Lee – I’d love to see the likes of Gibbs, Ox etc playing under a different manager when AW goes, I think we’d see a change in approach and their own displays.
What other team would be going for a second goal when just 1-0 up and with minutes to go…?
And of course, Ollie is not English Sukky… 😉
I know many people will slate me on this. Bellerin just doesn’t cut it for me. His poor delivery is a major downfall. He’s not comfortable with the ball, he lack Composure and his positioning is wrong most times (his monster speed helps him out on that.). Am not saying he can’t improve, am just saying he’s the same player since his debut.
Seems am the villain here already. Lol. Well, am comfortable with that. But remember it’s Highbury house-where it’s okay to disagree
Not at all Sukky, but just as you choose to slate players, others see things in them which is worth defending…
And, you assume I worship all English players when I truly couldn’t give a toot what nationality they are so I’ll defend myself there…
I think you have a point on Bellerin ‘plateauing’; butI also agree with Rico, a different emphasis on different phases or transistions of the game wpuld transform certain players; a bit of extra coaching from maybe SB or Per telling him to go on the inside or outside of the LW would resolve that.
An example was Cj25 who played better when MA08 was in team talking to him with AR16 or TR07 playing in font of him…sometmes in my limited knowledge as an armchair expert, young players need experienced/tactical players next to them… 😉
Just one query though Sukky, you sit behind the goal at The Emirates, but haven’t you said before that you are an overseas resident?
Sukky- who do you think has betetr delivering the Sagna of Arsenal post injuries or Bellerin?
If you note, almost all our LBs’ or RB’s have regressed in terms of delivery since Lauren or Cashley Cole days.
Even Eboue was voted as best RB in the UCL in 2006 but he regressed after that…; Monreal until was moved into the middle temporary was also getting slated by loads of fans on here and on the blogosphere…; most wanted their own version of Leighton Baines who only looked good on MotD. imho…
You should know that’s a pun. I meant to say inside the Goalkeeper’s net. Lol. Never got the chance to Emirate but soon I will.
Good Morning Lovelies and Hunkies.
And a brilliant good morning it is……since Ginge mentioned Baggio on the level of No10 legendary figures. Ginge, I could hug you for that.
A few days ago I said AW should give the no10 to Ozil.
Although I chirped in with some comments on English players, in no way I meant to slate them. I just said that if every one was fit and AW got a speedster of a forward not one English man would feature in our first 11.
I would like to see AFC one day emulate the record they set in the 30’s when 7 players played against Italy in the 3-2 win. However, imo, the present English players are there simply because the quota of homegrown players available to the English team is protecting them.
I do not agree with you Sukky regarding Gibbs as a LWF. He protects Monreal much more better than anyone. And it does give our left side a strong look when protecting leads.
Nor do I agree about Welbeck as I feel he still can learn. Atm he is not yet a top level player but he will get there. Esp under AW.
But Theo and JW I am afraid they will not go beyond their present level. I agree with Lee when he said that JW should have been sold…….imo if any manager offered AFC 25mill I would bite their hand off.
Theo will never be the finisher many expected him to be when he was bought. AW bought the wrong one…..it should have been Bale.
But with regards Bellerin, Sukky I will say nothing. I know what I see when he is playing.
Sagna improved towards the latter stage of his arsenal career, I hope Bellerin improve soon
Ts – my own view is that playing time helped Monreal rather than him playing central and not all of us slated him.. 😉
I’m glad you confirmed that Sukky as I have your ip address… 😉
Just remember that Bellerin is only 20 years old. The male athlete does not develop fully until the age of 22. Bones, muscles and fibres are not at their peak before the age of 22. Even the brain and speed of thought do not mature before 22 years. And lifestyle and up-bringing have a lot in this as well.
Ginge pointed out something that many fail to even conceive……An example was Cj25 who played better when MA08 was in team talking to him with AR16 or TR07 playing in font of him…sometmes in my limited knowledge as an armchair expert, young players need experienced/tactical players next to them……..remember that Aaron and Joel are all young players as well.
Bellerin has only Per and Cazorla guiding him. And he is still very young.
lol Dev. what I know you love the Baggio penalty. 😛
Agreed Rico… re Monreal
How are you doing Dev… how’s the weather like in your patch?
here its how I like it Ginge. Cloudy, a bit rainy, no wind and the sun playing peek a boo.
I am fine mate. soon will do around 5k.
I am still in holidays so I take it easy.
That’s about as much as AW spends in a transfer window Devil…. 😉
Glad to hear buddy.
At least its not speedos weather quite yet where you are…; its horrid down here; driving to work this morning was like jet skiing…
Gnabry to come back…..
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/12080038/Arsenal-transfer-news-Serge-Gnabry-recalled-from-West-Brom-loan-spell.html
New post up now..