Morning Gooners,
There really is only one place to start today and that is with Mo Farah!
What an athlete and winner he is and he’s a Gooner!
I doubt there is an Arsenal fan out there who wasn’t sat with a little tear in the eye when our man crossed that line for his second Gold medal of the Olympic Games.
Me, I was bawling and I am not embarrassed to admit it!….. 😉
Maybe Farah’s medals will give the club he loves some inspiration to go into this coming season with a real focus on winning something, anything….
Even a Capital One Cup victory could be enough to make this squad realise just how it feels to be a winner. Getting their hands on a cup and to have a medal around their neck would no doubt fill them with that extra hunger and desire to go on and win more.
The gossip:
Newspaper reports suggest that Fergie is going to up his offer for our captain to £20 million this week, not really sure which part of the £30 million valuation of RvP Man Utd don’t understand do you? I really don’t think our manager wants to sell to them and I hope Arsene Wenger gets his way with this one.
Fergie opted not to travel with his team for their pre-season friendly which has given the football journalists something to write. They all seem to share the same theory and believe that Fergie stayed at home to try and sort this deal out. Another Fergie/Wenger player war could be on the cards as we are reported to be interested in signing Malaga’s Isco.
He’s a 20 year old attacking midfielder who’s described as being:
‘A skilled dribbler and capable of playing through the center or drifting in from out wide, Isco goes past defenders for fun, has a keen eye for a pass and is capable of striking the odd goal or two as well’.
The Song rumours continue to gather pace but most stories do when they are just re-written, time and time again but if he’s off and we are lining up Yann M’Vila we better be quick as suggestion is the Tiny Totts have already made an offer of €12 million for him.
M’Vila featured for Rennes yesterday as they suffered a 1-0 loss to Lyon at home and he was on the receiving end of a number of strong challenges. Gourcuff scored the only goal….
So, back to today and our final warm up match before the season kicks off next weekend.
Cologne today will be a real test, it will be nothing like playing in the far East.
Players will be that little bit more fit, the playing surface will be much better and above all, the opposition will be a lot stronger and we’ll truly see just how well prepared we are for the new campaign.
Thomas Vermaelen has been bigging up Steve Bould and his training methods, well today we will see for ourselves if they have paid dividends.
We have three new players who should make their first appearance in an Arsenal shirt which is something to really look forward to and Robin should be leading us out in Germany with the same commitment he showed last season, after all, he is still an Arsenal player and I still believe he will be when the 2012/13 season gets under away.
So what do you hope to see today?
Robin finding the back of the net?
Santi Cazorla sparkling in midfield and creating many chances?
Podolski and Giroud bossing the forward line and showing just why Arsene Wenger signed them?
Maybe all of those things but the main thing for me is to see a much improved defensive display topped off with a clean sheet.
Enjoy the game, I’ll have to settle for catching the replay later…
Have a good day all….
Morning all,
I’m off out for the day, hopefully back in time for the game…
Have a good one and catch up later….
Morning. Just in – ISCO reports in Spain.
http://www.as.com/futbol/articulo/arsenal-podria-ir-isco/20120812dasdasftb_13/Tes
Just in 1hr ago
http://www.mundodeportivo.com/20120812/fc-barcelona/song-arsenal-negociaciones-barca_54336289050.html
Will Song play in Cologne and risky injury?
Maybe the club should invite Mo for a chat about developing a winning mentality. It appears we borrowed the old Chinese slogan. Friendship first, competition last! Or l
be seen to look good, but without guts there is no glory!
The club can bring in whoever, but without a winning mentality throughout the entire club, we are just going through the motion. “It has taken GP a long time to learn this simple lesson – Play to Win”. Team GB certainly grasp hold of that lesson and demonstrated it to the world over two weeks, so much so that politician took notice!
mvila.jpg
Ligue 1 club Rennes have received a bid from a Premier League club for defensive midfielder and Arsenal target Yann M’Vila, the club’s chairman has confirmed.
An as yet unnamed club have put forth an offer for the 22-year-old in an attempt to bring him to England’s top-flight.
M’Vila has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal in recent times, but Gunners boss Arsene Wenger ruled out any chance of the Amiens-born player making his way to the Emirates back in July.
Chairman Frederic de Saint-Sernin has confirmed an official bid for the France international has been received by Rennes, but a decision on the youngster’s future has yet to be decided.
“He has a very concrete offer from England,” Saint-Sernin told Canal+ after his side’s opening day loss to Lyon on Saturday.
M’Vila joined the Ligue 1 outfit aged 15, and has made 110 first-team appearances for the French club since making his professional debut in 2009.
IF we did put in a bid for M’vila and its a big IF (as I have heard its the spuds) it would mean that the song to Barca rumours are true. I don’t think it will be good. Although I cant complain with the summer transfer policy but gutted about the squid!! (joke) I feel that we should act like the other clubs and add to the squad with quality and NOT sell players.
If we got M’vila and song it would make both players perform 50% better than they already do as they will be fighting to be better than each other to be the regular player.
We are in a fantastic financial position to build a squad of top top players adding to the quality we already have to strike fear into the rest of the league AND Europe. City did it last year and it worked, United have been doing it for 10 years and look at them.
Huge hopes for the next few years and I feel Wenger has now changed the direction of the team building side of his game and I really feel it will transfer onto the pitch too.
Keep RVP to his contract to show him and others no-one is bigger than the club and if he wants to go on a free next year then go…. hopefully he will have to make the choice in 12months of leaving the champions and this will send a message to all the other players too.
As Barcelona have written into the stadium, “MAS QUE UN CLUB”
This is what we have to be, we have to become a legacy
Nice one Rico,
VIP BOX are showing the game so you can watch it. the stream is somthing else, i will try and get it, will be interesting viewing lots of new faces new tactics and hopfully players intent on winning things this year, places will be tough this season and our players will have to work hard to get places. Am a bit worried about Sagna as haven’t heard too much about him reserve keeper is also worrying me but apart from that am getting more excited as next Saterday looms. We have one of the best squads i have seen for years and our chanches of the league are better than ever Wenger and Bouldy look in tune and Robin would be a mug to walk now, but at his age thats up to him. I predict a very good season Jack must be nearing coming out of hibernation and he will have to go some to get a place all in all i’m a happy gunner, well done Mo i ran with you last night and i was knackered myself after the race.
Jamie Sanderson@YoungGunsBlog
First round of Ligue 1 games this weekend. Toulouse drew 1-1 with Montpellier. Tottenham in the stands to watch Étienne Capoue
Jamie Sanderson@YoungGunsBlog
Arsenal have had further contact with Málaga post Cazorla deal. Arsenal may send some players there on-loan. Good to see.
VIVA MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE…HICO! The Brazil men’s football ‘team’??? STUNK. As the commentator said Brazil had a collection of talented players. I can’t see Neymar playing in the PL; talk about lightweight – my daughter could break hin in two.
Good morning fellow Gooners. I trust all is well.
Jamie Sanderson@YoungGunsBlog
Only player specifically talked about by Málaga is Ignasi Miquel. Likes of Bendtner, Squillaci may go on loan if can’t be sold
Interesting!!!!
Morning Gooners…
Jamie Sanderson@YoungGunsBlog
Details are a bit sketchy, but looks like Arsenal would waive loan fee and subsidise wages on those going to Málaga. Clear out.
So this Isco guy could a go’er, with Malaga becoming a bit of finishing school for some of our Spanish youngsters…
Toral and Bellerin could be earmarked for malaga if miquel goes there and does well?
Allezkev @09:37 — This isn’t the first time that Rennes have touted M’Villa. It looks like he trying to start a bidding war to get the price up to their earlier valuation. No one bit. That’s not to say that Arsenal are not interested.
If the information regarding M’vila is true that could mean the Sahin deal has hit rock bottom. Don’t see both coming to Arsenal. But you never know this days since Wenger is now a changed man. Looking forward to see the new-kids in the block today. COYG
SYG — My Spanish is near to non-existent. Did the article you linked re: Isco list Metro as a source?
Afternoon Canuck, yeah i know, it’s still a bit of a ‘Phoney War’ out there in Transfer WindowLand…
Seems that RVP needs to put in an appearance for AFC today, in order to play for Holland…
If he does join Manure, i expect to see us get a fee in the region of £25/£30million, and then bring in a couple more quality players….
But if Robin stays, then i’d be quite content as well…
Emma, maybe Silent Stan has finally given Arsene the green-light to spend some of the funds that we’ve sat on for the last few years…
Even with the spending so far this summer, the club has balanced it’s books.
I believe that the club could comfortably spend another £20/£25million, even if RVP stays…
Allezkev — If RvP acts in a professional manner and puts in the effort, I would also be happy to keep him. The big question is IF?
If he stays, it would ease the pressure on the new boys to hit the ground running and score. We could integrate them progessively rather than throwing them in at deep end hoping they will swim. We should have at least five players, regardless of player selection or formation, on the field who would be expected to score. In that case who do the opposition mark?
Would very much like us to get in there before Spurs… especially if its only 12m they offered!
Swap NB52 for Phillipe Mexes? This truly is the silly season. http://sportwitness.ning.com/forum/topics/italian-press-say-ac-milan-are-lining-up-bonkers-swap-deal-with-a
Canadian Gooner yes the article on Isco did list Metro as a source.
It also states that song will be going to barca and Rvp to Manu.
its all bulshit. Here is the translation in English:
Following the signing of Arsenal Cazorla remains ready to fish in troubled waters is Malaga. According to the newspaper ‘Metro’ the Gunners would shortly submit a bid for another talented midfielder Andalucians: Isco.
Walk at the Emirates concerned about the possible outputs Robin Van Persie and Alex Song. Alex Ferguson has acknowledged that they have made an offer for the Dutch and Juventus also goes after him, he wants a change. After the Barcelona Song walks in England and therefore ensures that Arsene Wenger wants to further strengthen the team.
With the signings of Giroud and Lucas Podolski hypothetical downward departure from Van Persie would be more than covered, so the Frenchman looks to the midfield. The Spanish midfielder because of his youth like the quintessential art and treasured, even as they say in the press that the idea is to make the new Cesc Fabregas of Arsenal.
The player, after returning from the Olympics in London, said his idea is to stay in Malaga, although he acknowledged that if the club decides to sell because of the needs, has little to say.
Tbh, Canuck, i couldn’t imagine RVP acting unprofessionally, to my knowledge, he’s never been a disruptive influence around the club, that’s why Ferguson would love to have him…
I get the feeling that Wenger may have put his foot down over this deal.
Only a massive fee, all made available for him to reinvest, would placate him and soften the blow of seeing his best goalscorer joining rival’s, who in my opinion, are in the midst of decline…
Terry — Thank You!
If the Spanish press are quoting Metro, it must be a SLOW newsday in Spanish sports.
Kev — I can’t disagree with you there. With a number of newspapers saying ManUre will/have submit(ted) an offer of 20 million pounds, its not going to happen any time soon, if ever.
Canuck, Twitter is full of ‘experts’ claiming RVP to ManUre is a done deal, even quoting his salery (how the hell do ‘they’ know that? Laughable)…
I read all that nonsense, and just chuckle.
It’s all good knockabout stuff mate, but not worth beating yourself up about…
Tbh i’m really quite relaxed about RVP…
Whatever he decides to do, i’m very optimistic about Arsenal this season…
Arsenal have repeatedly been linked with a move for the France international for some time, despite manager Arsene Wenger having previously ruled out signing the 22-year-old.
However, M’Vila has now given his thoughts on the saga, saying he is happy to stay at Rennes but refusing to rule out the possibility of a move.
“
LONDON PRIDE
7/4
Arsenal are 7/4 to finish as the top London club with William Hill
For the moment, I am here, I am well, I’m not complaining, I play,” he said.
“I must play good matches. While I am here, I am [at] the disposal of the coach and I must do the best possible.
“The transfer window ends on September 4, so I will not lose my head.
“If I must stay another year or more, I will stay.
“If I must go, that’s life. But if I stay here, I will be 100 per cent concentrated.”
Arsenal have enjoyed a busy summer in the transfer maket already, bringing in Lukas Podolski, Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud, although captain Robin van Persie’s future at the club still remains in some doubt
Weldone for the peice Rico, keep cruizing. Enjoy todays article. As of yesterday, about our differential opinion on Song, i think i must have used ‘fibble’ instead of ‘fiddle’. Nontheless, i still appreciate your efforts n time on yesterday’s article as well.
Kev — Amen brother!
I’m not worried about the RvP situation. I think Arsene and the club have things well in hand. If he is sold, the image that comes to mind is the scene from the film ‘Deliverance’; where the group is captured by the hillbillies. I see Arsene making them squeal like pigs, figuratively speaking of course.
I too am optomistic about the upcoming season. As I said the other day, I haven’t been so relaxed since before the Vieira to Real saga began.
I’m looking forward to Koln game to see how the newboys compare and where they will be likely to play. The score itself is not a real concern. That will depend on how well team preparations have gone and how certain Arsene is of his first choice 11.
Likewise Canuck. A win would be great for the fans, but the performance is what matters.
Beating Sunderland next weekend is the priority.
As i mentioned earlier, i can smell the smell of decline at manUre.
I still recall the sudden decline of Liverpool.
A team that grew old and who Dalglish was unable to rebuild in time before the decline became terminal.
Yes, Hillsborough did accelerate the process, but remember that Liverpool won the League the season after Hillsborough.
I just sense a similar scenario at Old Toilet.
And when they do hit the skids, it’ll be very sudden mate.
Fergie will just retire to the racecourse…
Kev — Yes. I think that’s why Auld Whisky Nose has been so public and obviously put out about our club’s response to the RvP saga. Panic is setting in, you can smell the fear in the air.
“Fergie will just retire to the racecourse”. His legs are gone. The paddock maybe, but then he’s too old for stud. That just leaves the knacker’s yard.
Man u cum n take RVP for £100mill if so go 2 hall..
A few interesting quotes from new Netherlands choach Louis Van Gaal re RvP. I think he is just the man to straighten out the big egos and terrible interpersonal relations on that team.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2012/08/12/3302148/-
Anyway, the Community Shield broacast starts at 5:30 a.m. my time. I need to catch a couple of hours sleep. So, its good night to me and have a good afternoon fellow Gooners.
Hiya CanadianG & Kev
Did you hear that Aliadiere scored v’s PSG. The mi££ionaires had to come back from 2-0 down to get a point.
The sports witness website was the first to kick off the Song rumours ….
….Wenger said himself that when Mexes was with Auxerre that he was an “interesting player”. We could do a lot worse, and 4 centre-backs – all international’s would be good… At this moment in time all Bendtner is doing is wasting everybody’s time …
… The thoughts surrounding Malaga and some of the Young Guns seems exceptional … whether or not it may happen is another thing…..
Evening all.
What is Bendtner doing atm??
Is he training with our squad,or left to his own devices??
I guess I’m asking could we be stuck with him??
Afternoon Scott, he’s been sent to Coventry.
No thank you to Mexes, been linked to us for the last 10 years, well over-rated and well past his best, will lose his place to Kozzer in the French team as well now, better options out there.
Have we seen an end to our spending for the summer.
See ya later Canuck….
Hiya SYG, just been digging some spuds up…
Boy it’s hot out there..
I don’t give Bendtner a thought now SYG, to me he is a figure of fun…
Like you, i’d just like to see him out of the club…
Strewth it’s Scott….
How ya doing Digger?
Mick, you should see a woman called Pat…..
Intrigued?????
Well, she works in the Supporters club and she can sell your ticket when your not using it, and you’ll get ALL the dough mate…
She does the away travel…
Outside the supporters club clubhouse, St Thomas’s Rd…
Hiya Scott …. How’s that bitch of yours?
Thanks Micko.
G’day,AK.
How goes it?
http://twitter.com/BackwardsGooner
That’s very handy to know kev, would it be as straight forward as you suggest ?
I’ll give it till the start of October and let family and friends use it for the first few home games.
Hiyo Micko.
http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/908311-arsenal-want-cristian-tello-as-part-of-alex-song-transfer
I posted this story on HH earlier in the week. It just goes to show you how reliable these “papers” are…. ?????
I can’t really see the logic in this, unless Wenger sees him as a left sided wing-back?
That’s what i meant to post…
If you can stand the shock Mick, i can arrange to meet you outside the supporters club and introduce ya….
Just gotta pick a game i’m going to…
But if you wan’t to speak to her yourself, just ask for Pat, everyone knows her, and ask her the SP…
SYG,I trialled her this morning,and she went sensationally…no ill effects from the fall….thanks for asking.
I’m off to be guys.
Have a great day,and I look forward to a report on the game.
Yes,I said the same thing yesterday….dates were wrong lol.
Night all.
Mick, i really don’t think you’ll have a problem selling your ticket next season, once the boys start rocking it’ll be the best ticket in town…
Not watching the game Scott?
Mind you it must be about 4am in your parts
Kev, I think my cousins may have bought tickets off her a couple of years back, she was very particular about who she gave tickets out to and apparently gave them a right grilling, I think their Irish accents won her over in the end.
How do SYG, keep ’em coming.
Mick if you’re struggling re: ticket at certain games, both Rico and WATH have my email address.
Even better, keep it in-house Mick…
Back in an hour…
CG mentioned the Charity Shield today, forgot all about that, not quite ready to watch Arsenal on a stream just yet, does my head in, looks like it will have to be the pub.
As an “editor if you like” I’m always trawling the local papers for contract news re: subterranean construction schemes …
….A quick glance through the sports sheets of France, Germany, Spain, Denmark, Turkey, Portugal, Belgium, Holland & Italy takes two minutes…. The online editions are of course very brief …
I’ve tried Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina but their news is vague to say the least …
Nothing in Denmark re: Bendtner…
So how much longer till the game? It starts at 3 BST, correct? An hour 15 minutes? Yeah? Gearing up my Arsenal USA Player…
Sorry…4 Brit time?
Really looking forward to the game today, think we are going to have a very exciting team.
Guy what time is the match at? ESPN aren’t showing it until 5:15??
4 pm
BST that is.
Does anyone know the starting lineup?
hola gooners. as i sip (chug) ipa in preparation for the match i hope your spirits are as high as mine.
it’s a good thing i had the sugar-daddy bowl to entertain me while waiting or i might not be able to contain myself and actually provided a bit of comedy. hazard stunk. torres looked betterrrrr but after going down the side lacked the grit their offense has relied on recently and city weren’t in championship form. i know it’s not a season match but the neither side looked as sharp as i’m hoping we do today.
& i’m over it by now but would this m’vila kid really join the idiots? thought he wanted cl, wenger…and a real club?
Good afternoon Gooners.
Interesting to watch Chelski and Abu Dahbi Citeh in the Community Shield. A costly game for Chelski 4 or 5 yellows and a red card for Ivanovic.
Not sure what to make of Hazard yet. Played for 70 minutes, but didn’t stand out.
Good start, Verm & Poldi…
Still too casual in possession.
Podolski is THE MAN……
Like the shape of the defence…..
Ok, that will teach me to type too soon.
Yennaris looks very tidy, Cazorla, very impressive…
Got this Arab guy screaming in my lughole, after awhile it does tend to get tedious…
But hey, it’s freeeeee…. 😀
0-3, can’t complain, can we Will… 😉
with the exception of the play we should have conceded our back line shape has looked better. cazorla looks solid, as does poldi and even though giroud doesn’t look as sharp he is certainly finding space. can’t get ahead of ourselves but there are a handful of positive sides.
What’s the second half line up?
You must be watching the same feed I am Kev, Allah Allah Allah.
I am a little worried about our defending still. A little too casual for my liking and again, I think we can be a little more dynamic as soon as we win the ball. Remember, this is against a second division side. That said, the goals have been well taken.
That’s the one Will, the guy never shuts up….
Satan, Arshavin, Kozzer, SirChez, Santos , Song, Djourou, Gerv, all on for 2nd 45…,
song in..gervinho….diaby and is that gnabry? Cazorla was very impressive for the first half.
Diaby on, Jenkinson and Gnarby
so no robin?
I do believe that Santos has cut out the fish ‘n chips.
He looks slimmer to me!
No Bondex, not yet mate?!
Arshavin, playing in the hole!
Gervinho is looking sharp….
girvinhooooooooooooo
Gervinhoooooooooooooo.
Great run, beat two defenders and scored….
Gotta say, this squad look like they mean business….
very impressive from gervinho…
i”m loving this boy….gnabry…
isn’t it nice to have a bench where RVP can come on….not to save our face just to consolidate.
Gnarby and Poldi off…
Chamakh and RVP on…
Bondex, we have a squad of ‘fit’ players for a change…
Only Jack and Frim to come back…
Rosicky too….
Sagna… 🙄
I like the look of Gervinho…
Evening guys and gals…
Just catching up and watching the replay on Espn, will be back after….
A good work out.
A good result.
And a CLEAN SHEET…….
Robin who????
yeah kev…gervinho finally looks convinced he is here to play football
Bondex, i know it was a friendly, and some will be dismissive of Koln, but i was very impressed…
As you say, Gervinho looked sharp, fit and raring to go…
benefit of having a team where players fight for limited spaces…the second half team looked more like the old arsenal…song gave up the ball too much in the middle…would still have him stay though.
rico i’m going to spoil it all for you…djorou with a hat trick, rvp re-signed in the middle of the match and wenger traded glasses with a portly supporter. HA!
4.0 thats the kind of scoreline we like to see Gervinho played well in the second half and scored a good solo goal but he dwells a bit to long on decision making, but he should get better, Podolski and Giroud look like a math made in heven, the ox will cause lots of probs for a lot of players this season. Merts and Santos still worry me and Manone needs replacing
Impressed by the team overall performance. Especially the first half team. The first half team created a lot of chances at the rate of every 3-4mins. What a commanding performance from OX, Cazorla and Coquelin. Their dribbling skills(OX and Cazorla) was dazzling. Podolski and Giroud look mouth watering in the attack. Gervinho is ready to roll this season. The way he skins the defenders is just ……. I must say we ve got a shout in the league this year. Just a little tweak here and there and we are set to go. We still need a keeper though to push Szcesny. Overall i will say the workout is OK
Did RvP seem interested to you guys when he came on?
awwwwwwwww men, i didnt see the bloody game. hey kev, highlights please.
Bondex, our directness went off with Podolski.
RVP didn’t seem bothered…
Diaby looked ok… 🙂
hiya guys, highlights please? am dying here.
Can’t help Stan, try SuperArsenal TV or Arsenalist…
Google them mate…
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE…HAH!
Not perfect, but looks good. Was I dreaming or in the second half were the backline seen to marking tight and holding a nice flat line? If not for the crap kit I thought I was seeing Dixon O’Leary/Bold/keown/Adams (pick two( and Winterburn. Still work to do no doubt, but it looks like we have squad depth and talent.
Grat quick transition out of the backfield too.
Hi Sir Stevo, you sneaked in there…
Got any fisherman’s tales?
AK @ 5:32 p.m. — Are you making eyes at Sagna?
Arsenal an outside bet for the EPL, yeah Emma, i concur…
Hiya Canuck, nah mate, it’s my memory, my lad had to keep on reminding me who was injured.
But we have such a strong and imposing squad that i just kinda forgot.
Isn’t it good to have so many great and hungry players… 🙂
As you say Canuck, the back-four had an encouraging shape about it…
Uncle Bouldy’s influence prehaps… 😉
two goals from the Pod one a penalty and the other was awell taken one two where he finished of robin style, Vermin got the first from a corner which was flicked on to the far post where Tom nutted in Gervinho was a solo goal where he stripped the defender for pace came inside then jinked his way round the defender again looking like he was going to cross but instead took the near post shot himself and caught everybody out, to be quite honest we should have had more against them but we were also lucky to keep a clean sheet highlights over.
come on guys, highlights already. gosh am dying from anticipation.
could be arsenal’s year…..gnabry looked really confident on the ball..
Hi Kev, dozen times out 3 nights as well one fish, hard work this fishing mate
I’m excited – bring on Sunderland and Stoke. I want to see Tony Clueless speechless.
back soon…
Stevo, what about ‘The One’ that got away????
Podolski wasn’t bad was he……
There’s something about this team Canuck…
Not seen such a confidence about an Arsenal squad at this stage of pre-season, for a long long time…
If RVP goes, i don’t think it’ll matter…
The team in the 1st 45 were playing as if RVP was gone already and that his presence was an irrelevence.
Hey Rico, how ya doing boss?
This team looks a bit special…. 😉
Remember, we won 4-0 with no Sagna, Arteta, Wilshere or Rosicky…
Not a bad foursome to return eh?
Was Wenger making a point with RvP by not bringing him on till the last twenty minutes when the game was already won?
damn you kev, quit making my mouth water. i need highlights. christ give me strength.
i hear sagna is due back by september. gosh i cant sit still. highlights anyone?????????
Hi Kev, all good thanks, you??
What a difference three mature signings make – didn’t see too much of Cazorla, did I miss his action or was he just not involved too much which can be expected, he hasn’t been with us 5 mins…
Giroud is certainly no Chamakh and Podolski looks mean and keen….
Would I be right in suggesting that our defending was a little better too 😉
But yes, we looked very sharp today….
Maybe Arsene didn’t want his £30million injured Canuck, but we don’t need to sell, and ManUre’s need is greater than ours…
If Red Hooter wants RVP he’ll just have to pay…
Stan, it was a simply wonderfull 90 minutes.
It was so bloody exciting…
The goals were breathtaking….
Such a pity you can’t see it mate… 😉
Not sure what to make of RvP’s body language, nor Theo’s when Podolski came off and high fived the bench….
The GK situation is a mystery, Mannone in the shop window again??
I read we are thinking of a Mexes/Nikki B swap……
Cazorla looks very comfortable in possession Rico.
He seems the kinda guy who can hang onto the ball and both create chances and/or take the steam outta things if we’re under pressure.
I liked what i saw…
But Podolski looks the biz.
Think the fans are gonna love him…
And yes, the defence is looking like it can….. defend…!
Whisper it…we have a very strong squad considering the likes of sagna/rosicky/jack/arteta did not play.very promising.
Yeah, Mexes leaves me feeling a little underwhelmed Rico, but if we can get shot of Bendtner, then so be it…
Morning all.
I’ve woken up at 3.45 am to a case of pizza belly(last nights dinner,wife’s choice),and with anticipation bursting at the seams.
4-0,hey?
Not bad.
My boy Podolski did ok?
AK….you’re just bloody cruel lol.
Didn’t really notice RVP or Theo when Podolski came off Rico.
Was their reaction, the reaction of Yesterday’s Men, maybe???
Agree there Kev, and that’s just what we need, wait until he really gets used to his new team mates…
Stan can cope Digger…. 😆
Rico, RVP and Theo will never have the cosy environment anywhere else, that they enjoy at Arsenal…
But if they’re detirmined to chase money and be happy to be manipulated by their agents, then sod them…
We have Kt….
We may as well kept Squilli Kev, Mexes is rubbish these days and always injured…
AW won’t go there I’m sure, not again…
Still like us to get one or two more experienced players…
I couldn’t find a decent stream. Grrrr. But I am glad we won!!
And if the new recruits,make good on their promise based on everything I’ve read here, then it can only be great for our club!!
What numbers did Poldi and Giroud wear??
Tbh, I thought Theo looked a bit better today, I prefer him on the left..
He’d have enjoyed playing and I really hope he stays, but my heart now tells me Rvp is a gonner, it’s just a matter of time and whether or not Fergie puts his money where his big fat mouth is……
Cazorla and Giroud are really intelligent players.their movement is excellent opening up spaces for poldi and theo to attack.we were sublime in the 1st half and we looked to have a shape too.
Poldi was 9 agag 😛
I think if it was a given RVP was going,there’s no way he’d have played yesterday.
I’d give him the benefit of the doubt on anything he showed during the game,as it was his first game in a while.
Just a week ago,reports were that most of our players looked out of touch…..it can change quickly.
Did I read Yennaris got a game?
He’s a just a ripper of a player.
Just saw a pic of Podolski….he looks as lean and fit as I’ve seen him.
Cazorla looks comfortable with the ball at his feet, but still trying to figure out whoose who and which way the wind blows. Once he’has settled in, I think he”l be tearing up the turf. He looked better than Hazard did earlier today.
I volunteer Kev to do the match report! Or Canadian Gunner! Ha!
Hiya, rico!
KT,when we signed Giroud,of course we all went looking for footage of him.
Some questioned if he was another Chamakh,but from what I saw,that comparison couldn’t have been worse.
The guys has everything a player needs to succeed in the PL,and that includes the size to cope with the Stokes of the world.
He’s a bloody good footballer.
Podolski…well,I don’t need to tell you all again w much I like him.
Cazorla though could well end up being the best signing,and most influential new guy when it comes to our league aspirations.
KT!!! Howdy? Are you done getting all those Latin honours and stuff??
Evening all…. Whisper is quietly but on the 1st half showing we looked pretty good.. As for the 2nd half very pedestrian… Song n Diaby in midfield… average, no tempo no distribution very little class..! Think Wenger missed a trick considering that was out last game before Sunderland, why didn’t he play his 1st choice team for 60mins before making substitutions..?
Cazorla showed how classy he was so comfy in possession and Giroud looks big strong direct and the boy has awareness which is good news.. Podolski works his nuts off too…! one or 2 more buys and we def knocking on the door.
Oh and if anyone wants a replica for the 1st goal.. see circa late 1980’s corner… Bould flick on, Adams goal…… That’s obviously been worked on in training… love it…!
rico, naughty!! You just “sold” Park. 😀 😀
Scott – I have hoped all summer he would stay but honestly, he looked as if he really didn’t want to be out there, he’s just being a ‘good boy’ imho….
Hola, GG Man! 😉 You sound happy and satisfied… For a change. 😛
Never happy or satisfied AGAG just ask me Grandad… AK always says I am never happy… 1st half was very very good…..! 2nd half a little disappointing but lets hope Wenger has seen that if not then he’ll never learn.
Chamakh is a great header of the ball, but if our players aren’t crossing it to his head he seems lost. Pumping in the crosses hasn’t been one of our teams strong points.
Giroud can also head the ball but is more of an all round player – on the ground, in the air, hold up play, and as Scott from Down Under said he has the physique to cope with the likes of Stoke.
just saw the goals on youtube but i need extended highlights. can anyone give me a link?
W.A.T.H — I don’t think we have been that direct since TH14 left.
Fair call Rico…im guessing obviously,having not seen the game.
Still,as long as Wenger makes Utd pay through that red nose,and we bring in one more striker as a rplacement,no great loss.
I mean that with all due respect to the guy,but better to have a player of limited ability who puts in,than a superstar who doesnt.
Then let asking go,and bring in M’Illa,and yes,we truly will have a squad who will be a major force.
I’m off to cop another hour or two of kip…catch you all later.
Stanley, here u go http://www.getalinkutitearse.com
Then,let SONG go…….That should read.
Goodnight.
my God you guys are killing me!!!!!!! was the game that great?
Hi agag – I’d rather he’d have worn Chamakh’s number 😆
CG, first half we attacked left right and centre… off the ball movement was very good, comfy on the ball and we looked a pretty decent unit with balance…! We also had a decent tempo as well and thats what we have lacked in the last few years, we’ve only done that and showed that in patches.
thanks W.A.T.H….. you re a pal.
Cheers Song…………! Pleased to hear Fido is ok as well…!
CG, Chamakh should be give a compilation vid of all the goals he scored for Arsenl when he first got her. Might refresh his memory. He might suddenly remember where the goal is and how it’s done. 😉
WATH, not to worry I have it on excellent authority that your granddad will take you to the shops for your first pair of long trousers. 😀 😀 Next thing you know, he’ll be letting you drink GG. And then you’ll be truly happy.
What was Giroud like?
Hiya, goonster! Calm down!!
Always happy to help out Stanley 😉
Don’t tell me ‘Misery Guts’ from Islington is moaning again…
Get to your room, and no supper for you…
rico, poor Chamakh. So unloved. 😉
Hiya. Only watched the second half – with a Turkish commentary on a 22″ PC screen.
Rico’s right re: Van Persie’s body language. He didn’t look as though he wanted to be there. He’s embarrassed that he is still here as nobody wants to pay him what he thinks he’s worth.
As a point of note I also clocked Podolski going off after 69 and the camera zoomed into Walcott’s face. I would have loved to know what he – Walcott was thinking? It wasn’t a “Well done, pal” kind of look.
Firstly, in perspective – the team we were playing were in essence the Wolverhampton or Bolton Wanders of German football.
The good point was that the defending looked to be there. We conceded NONE. On one instance I saw three players get around the Cologne man on the right wing whilst adjacent with the D and crowd him out with perfection. It was very nice to see. Long may it continue
From 45 mins.
On 46 mins Song needlessly gave away a foul on the edge of the area, which was the first of two notable fouls.
On 48 Diaby had the chance of an easy 3yd pass into the box from the edge of the box but dwelled on it far, far too long. Obviously one of his buddies he wanted to pass to wasn’t up with the play.
I will say it until I am blue in the face. YOU CANNOT play these two together against decent opposition.
Szczesny nearly got caught out being well off his line when Cologne rattled the bar. It was bad positioning which made the shot look better than it was.
Podolski looked a lot better than I thought and Kosceilny never put a foot wrong.
Chamakh was Chamakh and what he is still doing here is anyone’s business. Very, very, mediocre.
Gervais showed his raw skill and power to get into a good position and score a nice goal. It’s a pity that after Arshavin did all the hard graft taking the ball past several players to put him in a one on one with the goalkeeper that he fluffed what was in essence a much easier chance. He also bollocksed up another two easy passes to a team mate in the area both of which were reminiscent of Diaby on 48.
What I saw of the earlier goals. Vermaelen’s was very well worked as was the third.
Wenger’s first eleven would have ripped this side apart and probably got double figures.
Giroud looked very good AGAG, not shy to shoot, held the ball up well put himself about and has a good touch with good awareness of players around him as well…! Plenty to be happy about..!
Not yet agag.goonster in the 1st half we were superb.the movement,passing and technique was top notch…and very direct too.am cautiously optimistic.
Hi Wath, vast improvement on last season eh….
And they will only get better and better…
Agree there Scott, let Fergie put his offer on the table, if it’s not what he knows AW wants, then tough, go without!
Sleep well….
Ain’t it past your bedtime Grandad…? 😛
SYG, if it wasn’t for their keeper it would of been double figures by half time mate..!
I’ve been given an extension by my nurse… 😉
Just clocked your comment at 6:47 pm Rico….. There’s something there
Cheers Scott………..
AGAG — Good idea about the compilation of his early goals. If its not ready right away, with any luck we can forward it on to his new team.
I’m just going through everyone’s notes … By the sound of it we looked very good in the 1st half. Love the comments re: Giroud. I was struggling for half an hour to get a fixed stream !!!
She senile as well Grandad 😉
Rico, Fergie needs RVP ‘big time’, we can really fcuk them up, keep them hanging on, ManUre are on the slippery slope down into the land where the Scousers live…
Of that i am convinced.
Nevermind what they do this season, i just feel they’re on the way down…
Hi Syg, i too would love to know what Theo was think thinking, maybe he was in awe of what he had witnessed?
Song/Diaby together = a bad midfield but if we get Sahin, that combination will not be seen very often I suspect… In fact, I doubt we will see it again…
agag, he is and I want the chump gone asap….
Chamakh is a disaster, pls wenger should sell him. Someone should also teach gevinho how to deliver a killa final pass, if he can improve on that he did become a grt assest
That’s it, i’m telling your teacher where you live…
Balls Pond Road ain’t it?
I think you could be right about Manure Kev, both on and off the pitch….
Hiya WATH, Kev etc
did we play 4-3-3 in the first half or 4-2-3-1?
and if so were Ox-Cham and Coquelin the axis/pivot?
Anyone fancy writing a bit about today for tomorrows post??
Ok, don’t all disappear 😉
Rico, nothing is forever….
Last season, getting Scholes back just smacked of running out of options and ideas…
Yeah, i know we got Henry back last season, but his addition was fleeting.
Scholes was a major player for ManUre last season…
Come on Grandad you know where I live… New North Rd…! 🙂
I really must make sure they keep giving you your tablets..!
Problem is Rico WHY does wenger keep playing Song and Diaby together when a blind man can see they are awful playing together..!
Nightmare scenario..!
I’ll do a bit for ya Rico…
SYG, don’t know what KT thinks but at times I was struggling to see what formation we played 1st half… not sure if it was 442 or 433 or 4 something something… we were very interchangeable and we looked fliud and had tempo… no one slowed the game down and it was pass n move very unlike the 2nd half
I’d do a write up Rico but I’m banned and have been sent to me room 😉
Bloody hope so Kev, I’m hoping they head off down the table and Fergie finally retires…. and if RvP is part of that, so be it….
Bless you Kev, thanks heeps….
Wath, isn’t that where your computer is?? lol
Syg– You ‘ve got to watch the first half. The tempo, intelligence, dribbling etc was second to none. This team will get better and better. I duff my hat for Cazorla, OX, Giroud, Podolski. etc. Giroud is no Chamack. That guy can play and knows where the net is
Kev — I think you’ve hit the nail on the head re ManUre. I’ll have to give my Manc chum a call, to pull his chain and get the point of view of from the other side.
Sounds good. It will be nice to know if Wenger is going to use Ox-Cham alongside Arteta with Cazorla supporting a Podolski-Giroud-Walcott three pronged attack… The options are limitless, but that looks a very, very mobile starting line up.
I’ll try and get a first half viewing Emma – cheers
Great result.
The first half team was creating chances at every 3-4mins. Second half team was like the old arsenal> Extended highlights of Arsenal, Cologne match here http://soccernet.espn.go.com/video?video=channels/339821/1691130&cc=5739
Hi emma – always made me laugh reading ‘fans’ comments about how signing Giroud is just another Chamakh – I was really impressed with him, as so many have already said, he knows where the goal is and isn’t afraid to shoot…
In fact i’d go as far to say he could get 20 goals in his first season….
Rico, I have nicked a wi-fi signal from the neighbours but lose it when I am sent to me room when Grandad grasses me up…!
Man Utd have been pants for a while. Like Bakruptlona, Fergie & co. are going down.
How many Latin honors do you have to have KT? 😯
Good to hear about Giroud, WATH. 🙂
Kev, I already volunteered you to write the match report and CG, too. SYG has a lot to say about the match as well. rico, you have your pick of the lot. 🙂
There’s a striker somewhere in Chamakh. Where to find it is the question. 😀
😆 Wath..
I reckon it could be in Bolton or Blackburn agag 😉
If anyone wants a reason as to why we don’t need Song or Diaby wathc the 2nd half…. awaits the responses of I hate Song brigade but unfortunately the truth hurts and we’re not the same team when those 2 are together… sluggish and lacking ideas and creativity..! Watching that I actually cannot believe Barca would ever want Song… If only….!
Sorry agag, but Chamakh wouldn’t score in a bed of fanny’s !
WATH it was difficult to tell what formation it was since it was so fluid.just see where Poldi was when he started the move to his 2nd goal.lets just call it a front 6 for now… 😎
Wath, You are not far from the truth. Song especially slows the game down. Too clumsy and sluggish for my liking. Good we have competitions in the team now. My only worry is we need a keeper to push Szscesny
Watching the second half. You will get to understand how we laboured to close out games
😆 Micko. Trust you 😉
Reading all these comments, I feel so much more hopeful about the coming season. Such a contrast to last year!
Hello, emma! 🙂
Hi agirlagunner 🙂
Wath, I reckon Song will go and Diaby will stay….
If he does go, we need a proper replacement..
emma – totally agree, it certainly was a game of two halves and I strongly suspect the firts half 11 will be very close to our starting 11 next Saturday..
Well it’s been a great day. Thanks to Arsene and the team for a great birthday present. I’m off to cook myself a good Scottish brunch.
Good afternoon to me and wishing my fellow Gooners a good evening and a better tomorrow.
agag – we girls are slowly taking over HH 😉 😉
Am watching Bayern vs Dortmund.Bayern 2 up.
Cheers CG, enjoy your birthday fella……
Rico, for me if we get a proper defensive midfielder who is simple and breaks up play plays the easy simple pass keeps the flow of the team going an creates a tempo then that would be better than Song, If Song stays then as many on here have said he cannot play with Diaby they are a nightmare together.
Happy Birthday Canadian, you kept that quiet 😉
Sleep well….
Happy birthday, CG!! You enjoy the rest of it. 🙂 emma, how nice to have another lady on board. 🙂 🙂
I am off as well! Good night all.
Night AGAG sweet dreams…!
But I think we will Wath, Song didn’t look thrilled to be playing either. I truly believe this Barca story has legs…
Who we get in though is what matters for all the reasons you say, whether that is M’Vila, Capoue or even the Celtic guy remains to be seen….
We need to balance that midfield with some muscle but song and Diaby together is a no go.
Nighty agag…..
Whisper it softly, rico. We don’t want the gents getting any complex. 😛 😛
😆 agag….
oops. chat with you some other time- agirl 🙂
happy birthday- CG 🙂 🙂
2-1 lewandowski
KT, Muscle doesn’t mean you have to slow the game down nor be slow of thought and for me thats Songs problem and as usual his first two contributions were giving away stupid free kicks… Sorry but he just doesn’t do it for me, a decent squad players that’s about it… if we imporive on him we’ll be right up there, someone who allows the flair players to flourish yet protects the back four… he doesn’t…!
I’m off for the day guys, going to enjoy GB closing this OG’s down with a super ceremony I suspect…
Catch you all tomorrow…
This season really could be the start of something good again….
‘Wenger Out’ ???? I don’t think we’ll be hearing or reading that this season do you……
Nighty all, stay safe…
I know wath and thats why M’vila is an ideal candidate.
M”Vila or Capoue KT and we’ll be rocking mate… Cazorla just makes me grin…. Class…! Also like the way Ox is maturing…. he will learn so much from the likes of Arteta and Cazorla.
Dont know what Barca see in song. But I will be happy to sell him to the catalans and get a replacement for him (M’vila/Capoue will do for me). Arsenal needs a sweeper to ensure that the DM is kept tidy. Not committing silly fouls, being sluggish and clumsy when on the ball. Coquelin will mature into that role but still needs a full season
The fluidity in the first half was sublime.Cazorla knitted everything with 1/2 touches and he moved all over working space.
I wish we had Busquets-type player who is physical but integrates well with the playmakers.M’vila could be that player and if we do get him we’ll play some sublime stuff.We are so close to success.
KT, was quite impressed wit Coq today, he was busy got stuck in and playerd the ball of quickly and sensibly and also sprays the balls around pretty well as well… Gonna be good maybe this season just a year to soon for him to control and boss a midfield..!?!?!
I agree emma.if we get such a Dm by the evidence of the first half we’ll play a combination of tiki taka and pacy wing play.We just need to get that DM and sort the Rvp issue.
Lets give him time Wath.He has a future at Arsenal.Song though is hampering us alot.he can be brilliant at times but his fouls and casual give aways are doing my head in.
Not rushing him KT and by no means do I want him gone I rate the boy highly just think this season maybe a year to soon for him to boss a midfield so we def need to replace Song with a better version.
IS THAT AK IN HIS CAB ON THE STAGE WITH THE SPICE GIRLS…???
CAN’T BE SURELY………………….
That was one hell of a fare Grandson….. 😉
I can have the rest of the week off.
Don’t forget to brush your teeth before you go to bed young man..!
Shit,isn’t there some positivity flying around today,and it makes the heart of an eternal optimist such as myself just glow!!
I am loving it,and I’m truly glad Wenger has taken this task of getting our club back to where we deserve to be head on.
Also,and MOST importantly to me,is he’s done it with class.
No backstabbing,no tapping up,just got the deals done.
We will not doubt have another few players coming in….three,I reckon….and if one of those is M’Villa,the second Schwarzer,and the third a young guy,like an Aussie kid Sean Jackson,then we are pumping.?..had to throw that in,becauseim feeling good today!!
I love it,I really do.
And I love Wenger…he is still our man.
Off topic….has anyone noticed the performances of Brett Holman for Villa??
On pay tv,I can actually watch Aston Villa TV,their own show,and it’s at least given me a “hit” of football.
Theyagave fallen in love with Holman already, as I suggested they would when they signed him,because he is all heart and effort,but with some skill to boot.
That reminds me,I’ve got ask Uncle Ivan to send Arsenal TV over here.
A week to go…..I can not wait.
One last thing…..have I ever mentioned how much I like this new bloke,Podolski 😉
Sleep well,fellow Gooners.
Optimistic Digger…
Then you’ll enjoy my post.
Now i must sleep.
Jamie Sanderson@YoungGunsBlog
Big week coming up for Arsenal. Places up for grabs. Club still after 1-2 more players. Expect some movement on players out, too
AK,you know me,I “always look at the bright side of life”….
Moaning all… seems we are all half full today!!
Morning All…
Mine is full Lee, good weekend??
Mine would be if RvP signed and we got M’Vila or Capoue!!
A good weekend, too hot though 40c plus! My daughter got an ear infection so no swimming pool for a week! I don’t envy my wife trying to enforce that!!
I’m still shocked at that red noosed prick saying that Arsenal are hard to deal with….what was he like when Heinze wanted to go to the dippers!What a prize wanker he truly is!
That’s rotten for your daughter Lee and yes, for Mrs Lee too, how to keep a young one out of water, especially when it’s so warm…
That’s Fergie for you, did you see the game yesterday?
I saw the highlights of the goals,and we looked slick.
I saw the goals but not the whole game…. I read the comments on here and all seemed positive, so that’s encouraging!!
First half was quality, real quality – the second with Song and Diaby in the middle was not so good….
The 3 newbies look like they have been at the club for years 😉
Spurs are in for M’Vila …..
Thought he wanted CL football?? Or is that like RvP wanting intent?
Lee, Emma left a link for some extended highlights, 7.56…
Morning All, Morning Rico.
M’Vila of the Lane?
Huh, he’ll learn!
Possibly – I also thought he said he wanted to play for a French coach?
Morning Kev
New Post is up 🙂
Johnny @___Johnny____
Congratulations to Nuri Sahin who joined Liverpool,Arsenal,Man Utd and Spurs yesterday
😆