Morning all.
Big expectations, big season ahead!
Arsene Wenger faced the cameras yesterday and he’s in a buoyant mood:
I would say the balance of power, in the Premier League, is a bit more even than it was five or six years ago. That’s because of Financial Fair Play, added to us having more financial power than five years ago. It gives us a better chance.
Until recently, we’d come into seasons knowing it was about who might be leaving, not coming. I was sitting here and thinking, ‘Who will go next?’
But we managed to get in a better position. It’s a vicious circle. Once you get great players in, everyone wants to stay.
We’ve been saying that for years Arsene!
But, there’s no point in looking back as nothing can be changed. Now it’s about how the club move forward and I don’t think we fans have a reason to moan. Certainly not yet and once the club have finished their transfer business, I think we’ll be happy and perhaps his comment about great players coming in, means we could yet see more joining us.
And yes, there will be more signings, the manager confirmed that yesterday but it won’t be Juan Quintero, neither will it be Mario Balotelli. However, when the name Sami Khedira was put to him, he just said that he didn’t want to name names. Huge hint that we are trying to sign him in my opinion.
Today of course The Emirates Cup kicks off. Like many, I’ll be sat watching the event on BT Sport but I’m looking forward to seeing our new signings on display. New boys Alexis Sanchez, Mathieu Debuchy, Calum Chambers and Joel Campbell will no doubt all feature over the next two days. David Ospina is reported to miss out through injury. What already?? Doh!
First up today for us is Benfica, that kicks off at 4.20pm, then tomorrow we play AS Monaco at the same time.
Both sides should give us a good game and test where we are in our level of play, especially Monaco, one of the big spenders in the French league who have a few quality players. And Berbatov of course…..
Benfica are no slouches either and looking at their list of achievements in the Primeira Liga, last years title winners will be a strong team to overcome.
Both will and that’s just what we need.
It’s all very well going off on tour to Asia and battering sides as we did last summer but we need to be tested at this stage of our pre-season and I think we will be during both fixtures. We will of course be without our German trio who are still having a little rest after winning some small tournament in the summer.
Their continued absence will keep the door open for one or two players who are trying to prove they have what it takes to remain an Arsenal player, like Miquel and Coquelin and for the younger players, a chance to show they are ready to make the step up into the first team squad and be called upon when required.
Of course it’s also another chance for Abou Diaby to prove his frail body really is stronger and that’s it’s ready for the 2014/15 campaign. No matter what we think, Wenger rates him and he’s staying so if he is, let’s hope he can stay fit because like a few others, there are certain games where he can be played to allow rest and rotation.
If you are going, have a great time and enjoy the football.
Moving on, I would like to tell in a short paragraph, about a free ads site where you can buy and sell second-hand products. I discuss this because I found t-shirt of my favorite football team at a very affordable price. I recommend it!
That’s it for another day….
New post up now…
no new post today?
Rather here than old toilet…
http://www.offthepost.info/blog/2014/08/arsenal-star-thomas-vermaelen-set-for-barcelona/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+offthepost%2FTLAa+%28Off+The+Post%29
I guessed Tai, no probs, easy done..
Oh…thank you, Rico…I mixed it up where I said Campbell instead of Chambers….so many sound alike names these days!
Tai, me too re Sami….
I don’t think Chambers will get overplayed, if TV goes, I still think he’ll be replaced…
Scott…
Don’t believe everything you hear. Benfica were better than NYRB that beat us 1 – 0.
Yeah, Rico…
Wenger was being tongue in cheek re Khedira. Podolski long gave it away on our interest in Khedira and I still believe we’ll get our man.
I’m confident Cambell can partner well with Kos in CB, though lack of inches for both is a big worry. But Wenger must note he’s only 19. Push him a little further and he copes a long-term injury…always the problem with completely trusting kids!
They had better be because if not, they won’t be starting many games. Agree re Arteta and Flamini….
Endeavour is often forged in the white heat of battle.
Morning Scott.
They weren’t but our reserves were.. 😉
I just wonder if Poldi and Cazorla are up for the fight this season.
Ox and Wilshere will also need to step up their game this season. So nice to have this competition for places.
Arteta looks really slow, causes fouls and moans way too much when it’s penalised. I hope Wenger has noted it.
I also see Flamini still thinks he’s a traffic officer instead of tackling.
Ah yes, I have seen it. Thanks Rico.
I missed the game…….from what I hear, the opposition wasn’t great, but we looked very sharp.
Oh ok Rico. I will check.
Morning guys.
🙂 Lee…..
Morning Adam, I did…
Morning Rico, Lee, Kev, Potter and all. I imagine that a new striker is now off. Perhaps it means they can push the boat out on that midfielder? 🙂
Rico. Did you never release that post by Agag about desert dishes from spam?
Me also :-p
I knew, was being smart….. 😉
The weather Blondie…..
Something you ate Lee? 😳
Hope all goes to plan Potter…. Here’s hoping too…
You’ll have to put your break dancing career on hold for a while…..
A little wind but very sunny here…
Good luck with the operation Potter!!
New hip Rico but at least 6 months before the off. Quack says 3 months to lose a stone then on the list for about 12 weeks. New hip should see me to about 82 yrs old. So here’s hoping.
Morning Lee.
Sunny but breezy in London.
Hmm, I gotta get me a cuppa.
I can picture the scene. Sanchez on the left, Walcott on the right and Giroud somewhere on the halfway line… 😉
Morning Kev.
Me too re Giroud and Sanchez. Wonder if the big Frenchman will keep up… 😉
Ah, the pink sleeved Arsenal shirt, circa 1968/1970’s, I remember them well Potter.
Did you have the blue hooped socks to go with it?
Morning All
Morning Rico
Another match day 🙂
Looking forward to see how Sanchez and Giroud combine.
To think of all the options we’ve already got and we still have BFG, Podolski, Ozil and Diaby to add to the mix, plus two or three new signings (hopefully)…
Cut the sleeves off Potter…
Operation? A long way off but hope all goes well and nothing serious…
Morning Lee.
It’s a bit nippy here, feels like Autumn has arrived early…
🙂 re Adam, I’d have thought ‘Giroud’ on the back would have been the one…
Last Arsenal shirt I wore to a match was a 1971 long sleeved one which unfortunately has pinkish sleeves. However no adverts just the cannon which suits me nicely. Tried it on again last season , it’s a bit tight so it might make a comeback next spring after the operation.
Morning Rico and all.
Adam is very fetching in his skin tight new shirt, but to have “Squillaci” on the back really baffles me…..
Glorious morning here in north essex!
I think the replica shirts are the same as usual, just the players have the skin tight ones… So I was reliably informed 😉
Agree Bradster, quite looking forward to today’s match…
Definitely Rico, Benfica’s finishing was remarkably poor. Falcao won’t let those chances go by.
I’ll need to hit the gym too to fit nicely in my shirt
Monaco should offer more than Benfica shouldn’t they?
Be a good test and Sanchez is going to be played for 45 minutes on the flanks according to AW…
Morning Bradster/Potter
I think Sanchez was struggling in his shirt. Bit tight to say the least. Nice though… 😉
If the players keep up the pressure they provided yesterday then there will be plenty competition and no guaranteed starter complacency.
AW:
On Chambers…
‘I thought he played very well, was intelligent, good decision-making and calm on the ball, good in the air. He is 19 years old, and what he did is very promising. I told you we will have a core of English players, you have to trust me, I will get you slowly a good national team’!
On the injuries…
‘Diaby was not in the squad, he is just going out to practice, but is not injured. Zelalem has no problem, I could just put 22 on the list’.
On having too many players…
‘Yes, but you want me always to buy more. Where do I put them all’?
On whether he has made an offer for Sami Khedira…
‘No’.
On enquiring for Khedira…
‘What is enquire for you’?
On Khedira’s availability…
‘I don’t know. If I read the newspapers, he is available’.
He’s telling porkies re Khedira… 😉
Keeper impressed , mainly because of the fielding of high crosses which he will get a fair few in English football. I just sat back and watched the match did not record it but will be watching the re-runs of their goal again. At first look it seemed Arteta did not cover his man , but I want to see it again.
As for Sanogo and Campbell, both impressed,both did well they looked good together which bodes well for the cup runs. They both looked sharp and need to keep their heads together and realise that this is only the start .Hopefully Sanogo has not gone down with the Arsenal malaise but if he has ,can we do a Diaby and wait . If he is not fit again near the end of the window , we will need to look at the position again.
Morning all,
Just checking how tight those shirts are. Santos would’ve needed a girdle to not look like the Michelin man.
I can see where you are coming from re Chambers/Cahill…
Morning Sukky, Tai and all…
Totally agree re Bellerin, all has become much clearer in relation to Jenkinson. Having never seen Bellerin play, I didn’t have a clue just how good this guy is and he’s only going to get better I suspect.
But very early days and to be fair, Benfica didn’t really cause him too much trouble.
Thought Martinez had a solid game too, and Chambers.
Like you say though Tai, very early days but it was nice to see Sanogo and Campbell get goals.
Morning, Rico, Sukky, All,
It’s just the Emirates Cup…and one swallow doesn’t really make a summer…but…
I must admit I got it wrong on Chambers forcing Jenks out. It’s not Chambers that forced him out. It’s Bellerin. Bellerin is ready to step up and Jenks needed to give room. Bellerin is a better player. I hadn’t really seen much of him play but I saw enough yesterday.
Chambers has something that reminds me of Cahill…the 19-year old may not posses the supreme aerial prowess of the Chelsea defender but the composure on the ball ranks very close. Whatever side you’re playing, however low in integrity, your composure on the ball rates most players from my perspective. I hate panicky players and I can proudly say our new buy is not one of them. Something, regrettably, I couldn’t say of Jenks. I hadn’t seen much of CC as well until yesterday. Solid acquisition.
I’m save my thoughts for Campbell, Sanogo and Sanchez till much later.
http://desigunner.wordpress.com/2014/08/01/thoughts-on-debuchy-ospina-chambers-jenkinson-and-emirates-cup/
: http://
desigunner.wordpress.com/2014/08/01/thoughts-on-
debuchy-ospina-chambers-jenkinson-and-emirates-
cup/
Night Kev.
That’s me done, night all…
Night Rick…
Night Mystic
That’s great news Rick, I am very optimistic about the arrival of Jonker.
I’m not sure, but I just had a feeling that things were a bit stale in the Academy and needed a shake up…
Jonker was at the game last night and was seen taking notes . Report says Olsson Crowley Willock and Iwobi (Sub) had very good games .
Crowley is 17 next week and will be signing prof forms.
I’ll tell something else I liked about Sanogo (just a hobby horse of mine) he celebrated with the fans after his 4th.
Always like to see goalscorers celebrate with the fans.
Not sure Rick, what did you say mate?
Spot on Kev What pleased me with Campbell was his work rate and the amount of tracking back he did . Have you seen my comments at 10.06 this morning on yesterdays post.
Man city just lost a penalty shootout it went to each team taking 7 penalties man city missed 3 and they where all taken by english players nothing ever changes.
Hi Coach/Rick…
Calm down Tai, he has a long way to go, we don’t want Sanogo believing all the hype that’s gonna be following him around.
Let him keep his feet on the ground and he’ll be fine…
I’ve seen the goals.
Great work by Ramsey for the first and Belkerin for the 2nd.
Intelligent work by both.
Sanogo may well be one of those guys who looks clumsy, but always finds the net.
Not sure about his first, but his 2nd and 4th were classic Johnny-on-the-spot.
His 3rd was his best, good quick reactions to poke the ball home.
Not sure about the dancing, how about thanking the guy that lays it on a plate before you do a war dance?!!!
Campbell’s finish was very good, great control on the shot…
What I get from Sanogo, is that ability to always be where the loose ball runs to.
You can’t teach a player that, it’s instinct, and maybe Yaya has it?
Coach I would think he is looking over his shoulder. Sanogo Campbell and Akpom will be pushing him all the way.
As Kev said some of the young players are no longer potential but candidates. I just hope that they dont go on loan.
the togolump had the first touch of a rapist.
and now off to dreamland mates
cu tomorrow
ya
yaya
yayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayaya
yayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayayaya
AW compared Sir-4-gls’ technical skill to Adebayor.
enough to make anyone choke on his cereal.
One step at a time Tai…….
………I called him Sir-Four-Goals today.
Rick, when Anelka came into the team……….he stayed there as well.
Giroud, I guess, might be feeling slightly uncomfortable.
Habib…….those spindly legs need bulking up. but the way Yaya runs and uses them is exactly the way Vieira used to do so.
I jsut wonder why you guys don’t call him Sirmanygoals now…double standard?
Kev He has said he wants to play every week. Maybe a loan.
Good to some of our young players stepping up a level and looking like candidates for the 1st team, instead if just potential…
Delighted to read all the positive stuff re: Bellerin.
Now hopefully Hayden can do likewise tomorrow.
Early days yet, but a step in the right direction for Sanogo…
He’s gotta do it in a game that means something against an opponent like ManUre, Gazprom or Shittie.
Then I’ll believe…
It’s all Vieira to me as well Coach… 🙂
Rick, what’s happened to Afobe?
Sanogo may be called the new TH14 (I disagree), a goal poacher like Wright (myabe yes maybe no), a fox in the box.
Seeing his footwork and those long legs dart to touch the ball they remind me only of one player, who never played in the attacking position but was at Arsenal.
Sanogo is a PV04 clone who plays in attack. Watch his feet. The way he opens up his body. The way he projects his legs towards the ball. Its all Vieira.
Will play .
Dear oh dear Gjoe it’s a bank holiday weekend here, chill out man !
Arsene could only field 20 players . Diaby was not injured and will pay tomorrow. So will Hayden and Zelamen.
Why? By the way I never need advice to drink and take time off
I don’t think diaby is injured.Wenger would have said it during his press conference.Bellerin is a class,way ahead of your beloved jenkinson,Lol.Campell,Theo,Sanchez combo?I can hardly wait.
So now Monreal can play as a CB as well. That is already the 2nd game he has played as a CB. And he has played well.
That means that he can be utilised as a LB, CB and LW.
And that means he will stay put. I cannot see AW selling him now.
Hi Gjoe, word of advice, have a few beers tomorrow and take monday off !!!
Me too re Diaby. When he’s fit and functioning efficiently he is an awesome player and I, like a lot of others would love to see him playing regularly. He is our missing world class player, and no, I’m not joking!
But where was he today? And why wasn’t he present and ready to play if needed?
he’s Wenger’s secret weapon next week , he does not want to over expose him too soon.
I hear Diaby was doing the iron man in Hawaii
Sorry wavy, but I was !!! fox mulder would struggle with that one.
Only Nash knows the truth !
Sorry iPad correction! Should be Micko! Soz!,
Micro I wasn’t really taking the piss out of Diaby, well a bit maybe, but really I was hoping someone would explain why he was not available. He should have been on the subs bench at the very least, surely?
*thought….lol
Please, does anyone have update about Diaby? Why wasn’t he listed for this game? Hope that guy hasn’t gotten himself injured yet again? SMH 🙁
Easy to mock diaby wavy but if we could re-ignite his fire this season we could have a world class player on our hands or should that be be world class crock !
Didn’t see the game today but was obviously a very good run out for our lads.
Adam, I’m a bit worried agag’s post may be pre the 9pm watershed !
Hi everyone,
Wat a game that was! I taught Bellerin was outstanding and Chambers had a good game at CB; and Cambell really impressed.. Can’t wait for Theo to be back. Cambell playing from the Lhs and Theo from the Rhs, both wit blazing speed. I bet so many teams will not like to play agianst us with these two on the team sheet…
Diaby want even on the bench today. I guess he must have rocked his back when tying his boot laces and had to see the physio pre match who found he was so badly hurt he has been signed off for the next three months!
Yeah Rico…..
Yes, come on Rico. Set Agag’s post free!
The postman finally delivers !
We’re all King Henry fans on here tsgh, suppose Hever Castle is a lot cheaper than the big apple………cheap skate.
Ts, did you notice when MA came on we came under more pressure, i hope he is not the captain if TV leaves. He needs to sit on the bench.
I am also looking forward to abou Dhabi and arteta’s partnership tomorrow.
That is if he does not get injured getting into bed later…lol
Remember its only preseason, AW stated once TV leave he will sign a CB, no need to speculate, the squad is still short of a WC CF and a DM.
Hey BT…sorry mate.
it wasn’t bad at.my lil boy likes king Henry so…
rico, set my comment free. 😛
Adam, I think my long reply to you re dessert went to mod. 😀
Boo, Kev!!
Yep Tai.CC21 is our 3rd choice CB.
and will partner Kosser against city next weekend.
Kosser and Miquel tomorrow.
I personally believe IM25 is ahead of Hayden…
Hayden will always need a BFG next to him whilst IM will work with Kosser and Cc21.
Kosser and Cc21 will work well though as Kosser though a right footer prefers playing on the lhs than on the rhs that is one reason he partners better with Per imo.
Short and long highlights on Arsenal Player tomorrow
Dev, from what I saw…I’m recalling your comment some day or two ago…you said CC was the CB while Wenger was going to promote Bellerin. I think it was Ts that talked about the conditions when Bellerin was signed. It’s looking like you were right. Bellerin is Debuchy’s understudy…
I will try to get and see a film of the game
And Chambers too. Impressed with his composure.
BALD ADONIS????? 😆 LMAO
Hiya habib…….how’s life?
great game from what I read.
Cannot see AW buying a striker now. Maybe a DM but that is all. I do not think he will get a CB as well…..not if TommyV goes. Maybe I am mistaken, but Miguel and Hayden will get their chance. Even Chambers as well.
And from the comments it seems Bellerin will push De-Bush all the way.
Traditionally, it is all sorts of rice cakes, Adam. And fruit. Bibingka, biko, pichi pichi, sapin sapin. Some really good stuff. But we have all taken to more westernized desserts. So cakes and pies and all that. 🙂 🙂 We have some really good ice cream, too. With flavors you might find odd: ube and macapuno (purple yam and sticky coconut); langka and kasuy (jackfruit and cashew) etc. Those are traditional pairings here.
We don’t have blackcurrant though. I’ve never seen them at the grocer’s. 😀 😀 But it sounds yummy.
Kev. I will have a fruit pie prepared for you. After your favourite penne of course. 🙂
Ts, how was the Castle?
Kev, spot on, mate.
Bald Adonis, ha ha ha….
Agag, sometimes buddy, you have me in stitches… 😀
Laters
true Tai
Apple n black currant Adam, that sounds divine…
Gotta say that I tend to prefer short crust pastry to crumble, but I wouldn’t turn my nose up.
Didn’t see any of the game/goals, but 5 goals against Benfica, cannot be sniffed at…
Wenger still needs to continue with his squad strengthening, he cannot use this result or tomorrow’s, not to strengthen, that would be stupid…
We are strong (I am guessing) but we need to be stronger as the Ersatz clubs, Gerrardpool and ManUre, will all be at our throats if we are not…
Encouraging start, but that’s all it is….
Ts…some players are like that…take time coming to the plate. I prefer them like rather rather than flash in the pans. Sanogo will come good. I only worry of his injury record.
No desert? What a shocker Agag! As a matter of interest, what are the traditional deserts in your neck of the woods? I made a blackcurrent and apple crumble last weekend. Would you guys have such a thing?
Yep.. Bt. Interesting how he was slated for 6 months before he scored…
Pires on BT hd,…
No more Sirnogoal…not even Sironegoal…neither Sirtwogoals…it’s now Sirmanygoals. So so happy. I saw it in three matches last season that the boy is good. Hope his thigh injury that forced him off ain’t much to worry about!
Good game.
Campbell did well…but Bellerin amazed me. You sure Debuchy will push him away from that position?
Catch you later, Asia and Snap. 🙂
I am good, Adam. I had dinner earlier at a restaurant which served no dessert. I thought the waitstaff was kidding when I asked for the dessert menu and he said that they had none. And they really, didn’t. Crazy!!
later ts agag Adam goonster and all
Later Ag
Frimps playing for Sturm graz against Hamburg 2 days ago…
http://www.sturm12.at/wp-content/uploads/20140730-1019_1DX_2207-899×650.jpg
alright guys….. off now. Got to take kids and wifey for dinner 😉
have fun…… happy times ahead
Hi Agag and Stan. All ok here mates. You two are well I hope?
But that’s just temporary, right, the alopecia? Well, send her my best regards. I’m always keeping her in my prayers. baby Bee has the right idea. You can go from being the self-proclaimed Blonde Adonis to the Bald Adonis. 😆
Akpom doing very well too…
He might take Serge’s place if the relationship remains as it is…
ooooooohhhhhhhh miguel nearly scored
guess so ts what do you think of chambers?
Is Sanchez doing okay, guys?
Cassie is good agag…alopecia has set in. Funny brianna thinks I should shave mine too.
All good, but where is Diaby? Surely not again?
The jury is still out on that one…Snap.
Not a lot of defenders especially foriegners are top at 20 y.o.
But I guess he would suit even the Serie A than the EPL or La liga
Wavy, we don’t have BT here. 🙁 I don’t even get to see all of our matches. 🙁 🙁
He needs to release the ball earlier ts or he will be swiss cheese before November. Arsene should have a word with him.
I have always liked miguel TS plus i like the name miguel. we need a miguel in our team 😉
wow manila too…. yeah loads of malls there. Sanchez doing ok so far….. but the stars today so far have been bellerin, sanogo and campbell. We are all used to seeing ramsey doing brilliantly 🙂
goonie and snapI didn’t work for a year, remember? I’m only just getting back to the shopping swing of things. 😉 How are Cassie and Brianna, goonie?
Hello, Adam. 🙂 How are you?
but he is too weak for the league ts will be good for the Spanish league ala pique IMO you might know more am just assuming from the little I have seen if him past and now
Goonie;re. As17’s dribbling and EPL defenders going for him…
I miss you adam….no homo. 😀
Adamant 😀
Diaby vs Monaco… will AS Monaco make a bid afterwards? lol
Goonster,
It’s our access to ‘free’ football BT provide our telephone or internet lines and we get their football tv for free!
Dude what did I say? I actually talk a lot of crap most times 😀 please refresh my memory. Hey agag how’s it going lil mama? Shopping still I see. Tsk Tsk Tsk
Lol agag good on you I expect you to be greedy and go order some more though……..ts it is always win for the ladies
I love Miquel.. he is an elegant defender…
How is our star signing doing??
Wavy, I don’t know what that is, hee. 🙂 I’m the most technologically inept person I know. 😀
I can see what Goonie said about AS17…
Sanchez is on.
Manila. 🙂 🙂 The city of malls!!
Are you serious, potter??? Eeeeek.
AW has done the right thing with Miquel too…
he deserves a chance
Agag, you need to get a Broadband hub! Or better still move to London , Bond Street perhaps?
Perhaps we are witnessing the reason why he sent CJ25 out on loan and also why he doesn’t appear to be chasing another striker, well, none the journos’ have suggested we are looking at!
Given what we have seen this afternoon we have some strength in the depth of the squad. Most of the players who started are the ‘second team’!
Long may this kind of performance continue!
Snap, I’m thinkiing on a pair of shoes. But cooling my jets a little. Lol. I still have plenty I haven’t worn.
I didn’t Snap… in the end the ladies in my life won… 😉
Scores 4 and does a hammy.
oh wow agag 🙂 so which one of those 7,107 you are occupying 😉
I was in manila in may for almost a week on a business trip. Really liked it
Crowd are bored , Hate Mexican waves.
Agag- Of course Bellerin needs vast improving defensively/physically but as you said technically and tactically he is quite ready…
hi agag no shopping today? lol
GInge, Sirfourgoals will be scoring loads now… 😉 He just needed to get over that mental barrier. 😀 😀 And the unfortunate monicker the fans have given him.
hi ts debuchy hasn’t always been great defensively but he works hard and is a good attacking treat he really has matured and improved since he came to england so that is a good sign……how you doing between didn’t go to the game I see
Hey dev… I missed you popping in…
I’m from the Philippine Islands, asian. 🙂 🙂 We have 7,107 of them. And lots of mangoes. Lol. 🙂
Ginge, I like the (admittedly) little that I’ve seen of Bellerin. 🙂 Both technical and ‘smart;. 🙂
rico, I hope you’re serving steak and pork and chicken. 🙂 🙂 Haha.
lol Ag
Now now ts let us not get ahead of ourselves here 🙂 Bellerin is really good but Debuchy is our number one RB 😉
Why didn’t arteta went with him………. we need to improve our defending against set pieces
fair enough Rico I think arsene trusts him and I see his long future there…….happy for yaya too he works hard that I give him
The team has improved vastly in a week during the camp in Austria..
benfica look like they are 3 weeks behind us when they should be only a week behind us physically…
hey agag….. I am from Pakistan 🙂 are you somewhere in asia as well?
Hi Agag…
You have a point Ag…
We have got a new fox in the box………just like Francis Jeffers
I jest!
Now, I’m really envious of you guys…. Waaaah.
Hi, Ginge, rico, Wavy, Sukky, asian. 🙂 Where in Asia are you from?
Bellerin is a winger.
Dare I say Bellerin’s starting position is better than what I have seen of Debuchy at NUFC, Lille and Le Bleus?
Not saying Bellerin is bette btw…
Hi Snap
I think we have done ok so far defensively TS we were tested a few times in the first half
I have to go guys, got friends coming over for dinner…
COYRRG’S
🙂 🙂
If anyone wants to write about this game, just shout…. 🙂
Catch you later or tomorrow….
hmm, why has AW changed TR07 and Ramsey’s positions?
Nice reverse ball from Campbell and a tap in
Rico,did you see †̥ђƺ different between jenkinson and bellerin?
Bloomin heck. Thrilled for Yaya. A poacher striker in the camp 🙂
Only Sir Now goals will trip over his boots whilst celebrating a goal…
sanogoooooooooooo
hi agag and snap
5 sanogo
F…ing iPad Carles (Puyol)
Number 4!
Monreal has shown why he is playing CB.. he is using his brains.
I was surprised fans were berating him and praising Hayden after NYRB game…
Of course, I miss a game we actually look like winning. 🙁 🙁
Hello, all. 😉 I’m still holding out hope that we would get Vidal. 😀 😀 He can replace Verm. 😀 Lol. AW likes to play people out of position anyway. 😉
Surely Bellerin has Barca dna! They’ll be calling him home soon. Charles will come claiming he is his godfather and he must come back to the ‘home of Catalan’ football!
lol Ag… true.
Dna… lets see we have not been tested defensively yet so..
Good Afternoon HRD…… if you want a link I have shared it above. I also think we will not be buying a new forward. But still hope we buy one as it would give us more depth and sanogo and campbell can start FA cup and carling cup
Hi all,
So many positves. So pleased for Bellerin Its amazing how he has lnproved in the last 2 years.
Hi agag/devil/snap
I don’t know re Chambers, day one so let’s wait and see…
Asian 😛
Gdna, haven’t we, well most said that all last season? Pace, pace is what we have been lacking and today, we have it all over.
Yikes are we playing yet??? Lord God in heaven.
Pleasure Andrew
Ok you guys just roused me out of my sleep. What’s all the racket about? Rico what’s going on here??
hi Rico do you think chambers will be a good cb?
Andrew, sorry, I misunderstood. 😉
I am not seeing the game. however I do not think that a new forward will be bought. From what I am reading the Sir-Three-Goals and Campbell combo is proving to be enough to provide an alternative to Giroud. Maybe good competition as well.
Good Afternoon everyone
It’s good Gdna…
Ts, 5:13pm lol. What a difference when a team plays with pace.
I can’t believe I’m missing out on this goalfest. 😥
yeah rico lets leave “i told you so” to none other than our own TS
Yeah TS but sanogo scored three so i think he wont be another Gerv…… lets hope he isn’t
Really pleased with bellerin and campbell. Ox looking really sharp as well and dangerous
This is going to be a great great season for us. Lets kick some dwarf maurin ho ass
Rico, what I meant, BT you pay broadband, sky has ‘free’ unlimited broadband. But both out bills really indicate neither is free.
Except this match!!!! Thank you again AG, seems settled now
I know I shouldn’t be excited as it is just a pre season friendly but I really like bellerin and I want him to go on and have a good career…………hi Rico and the house
Just remember what it is, but by f**k i enjoyed that… more!!!
This is crazy!!!
You’re a star Asian!!!!
Thank you thank you thank you. Took a while clearing adverts and gettingvrid of over 18 stuff on top but it came up just in time for 2nd goal. Lost signal but came back to see third and forth. So thank you for each goal!!!
Gerv scored 2 goals on his debut too… 😛
Asian, I’m not someone who likes to say ‘I told you so’.
Just glad the lad has got off the mark and then gone on. It’ll do him the world of good.
Wow, hope to get bellerin and co distance covered in 10 minutes or so… amazing acceleration and and Ox have…
Sirnogoals not any more maybe we can drop that name now
Definitely Wenger won’t buy another forward.
what a move by Gibbs and Ox before that…
Giroud must be having a worry 😉 😉
sanogoooooooooooooooooo
you were right rico, the flood gates are open 🙂
Sir-three-goals
ha ha ha hatrick…
Sir hat trick!!!
Flippin heck, a hat-trick for Yaya 😛
That is Sir-Two-goals now……
I guess AW won’t be signing a striker… 🙂 🙂
brilliant stuff……….. sanogo and campbell
rico i think we will not be getting a CF now 🙂 lol
stunning…
And against a team that did the treble last season and almost did the quadruple…
St two go goal!!
Potter, agree. I know it’s only one game but Bellerin looks really really composed…
ts what do you think about bellerin? he looks ready!!!!
That is our RB deputy right there..
CC21 our new 3rd/4th choice CB
I’ll try again……..souper goal!!!
Debuchy is going to have to watch himself. Good run good goal.
Super goal!!!
What a goal!!
Super stuff by Bellerin and the finish was stunning
campbelllllllllllll
What a goal…
hey andrew hows the link working ?
yeah sukky definitely a great season ahead…… the team looking really sharp and this is not even the first team
Sukky, Sanogo scored and I hope that means another club will take him on loan…
H13, try firstrow sports, im havin no probs.
Andrew, mine is free, as long as I don’t have it in HD… Honest, renewed it a couple of weeks ago and I made sure they clarified the free bit…
But I am a BT customer with phone etc…
Sanogo scored?Arsenal will have a great season.
Go and get some spot remover then Ts… lol
Rico, BT don’t give it free! Have a look at your BT bill 🙂
ha ha ha Rico… can’t help it leopard and all… 🙂
it definitely is ts!!! lol
Wath has told about sitting in your armchair Ts…! lol
Wow… impressed with CC21’s positioning too.
What did I say… at 3:35. Crystal ball still working. 😛
Good stuff by the ‘clone of Beckham’… lol
theres the first one……….. yay
sanogooooooooooooooooooooooo
Sir one goal!!!!!
Oooo errrrr – he’s finally got a goal..
Good man…
So sad right now,wish I could watch †̥ђƺ match.
JC28 looks like our most hard working winger thus far…
He was like that against Yanited in the UCL too…
hopefully he doesn’t change when his position in team is assured.
So do I Asiangooner,just so he stops getting called sanogoal… pff
Mason is a knob!!
doing great ts and you?
yeah rico…. the first one is always tough to get but for him its just been a way too long. I really want him to score though 🙂
Monreal could be used as our DM as he played sometimes for Pelle’
Mason running to form , get a touch , roll about , yellow card.
Hi Asiang. howdy?
taught even…
Hi asiangooner, if he gets one, you never know, he might get a second before the season’s out… lol
yes ts bellerin looks really promising and he is linking alright with campbell
so far so good……… campbell looks sharp
will sanogo ever score?
He should have scored there
Bellerin’s positional sense can’t be thought me think… remarkable…
Andrew, get BT internet, it’s free… 😉
Shoot Yaya and then gain confidence…
Hi housers
Andrew try this one…… its working perfectly alright
http://fancystreems.com/bt_sport_1_stream.php
Martinez has improved.. he is showing why Argentina rate him highly..
lol Rico.. I need my bud light. 😉
Any reliable stream found? One I got wanted installs, no chance.
Top play Bellerin…
Ha, after finding BT Sport £15 a month for a sky customer and £15 to switch on extra, I decided against as most games on in a pub and these pre-season ones are showing on Arsenal Player. Found correct leads and installed laptop downstairs attached to TV. Ready for off and wifi cuts out.
Get it back working and faced with ….. Team Sheet and radio commentary!!! Not what I call video of match. grrrr
It’s Mason Lee, what do you expect?
Gdna, I can’t comment as didn’t watch.
Ts,for a man who professes to know plenty about football, CJ25 has left us on loan… 😉 Come on, keep up. lol
At least Ramsey back playing as a pivot…
Pushing a player over in the box not a penalty these days?
Kamikaze fullbacks…?
Rick.. Kosser and Miquel in 2nd half even.. I sound spaced out.
Here we go, here we go, here we go,!!
JC* instead
Cj25 starting on rhs
Rick. It might be Miquel and Kosser tomorrow with CC25 and Kosser starting tomorrow
Campbell and Sanogo could be a useful combo…
Where’s Mystic Micko, I need a prediction…
Yeah Rick, Monreal vs Drogba, I can hardly wait… 🙁
Ha ha BT, you should see me playing chicken with all those kamakazi cyclists in London.
Hi Ginge I hope so.
You can see why he played Monreal at cb in New York
Beating City at Wembley would be a big statement imo…
Kev, you Physco Killer…
That’s an interesting team Rico, it will bare no resemblance to the XI that’ll face Man City next weekend…
Psychologically that game against the Northern Ersatz is far more important than this weekends kick about…
We need to send a message to the other top four clubs that Arsenal mean business this season….
hello all…
chambers and monreal at CB 🙂
I could murder 🙄
I murder a pint of cidre or even cider 😉
no mate…
Ts, u at the Ems?
lol Dna…
Adam, had a great stream for last match, Rico, James the group?
Rico, I can’t see Monaco keeping Falco, they are awful.
Thanks Gdna.. Not really watching the game…
lol… Rico… i gathered that.
hi Rick… it appears hayden is not featuring today?
I wonder if he will partner kosser tomorrow?
But nice Adam… 😉
Afternoon Rick, yes, that’s the starting eleven and subs…
Morning all, good post Rico. AW should sell TV to Monaco, they are awful defensively.
Wel have won none of our last four Emirates Cup matches.interesting.
Afternoon the house,
Made it just in time.
Is that the offical team Rico.
Rico. Naughty. 🙂
He doesn’t play for us….
where is kongodbia?
cc21*
CC25 and monreal in central defence…
yaya to score
Monreal at CB.This could be a bad
Martinez, Chambers, Gibbs, Rosicky, OC, Ramsey, Monreal, Flamini, Sanogo, Campbell and Bellerin start…
Subs
Ches, Debuchy, Kos, Arteta, Wilshere, Giroud, Sanchez, Cazorla, Coq, Akpom, Miquel.
Stream or steam Adam?
Chambers to start and at CB…
It must be coming this way Rico. Sun just vanished.
I might try to stream the match I think.
Afternoon Adam. dark, wet and horrid here…
Afternoon all. Muggy here.
🙂 Bt, he wouldn’t earn much then. What about about James.. 😉
Rico, may be they pay by the inch…
Monaco 1 v Valencia 1
Kev, we will… 🙂
🙂 Bt…
Hula Hoops tend to company my beverage on most occasions…
Why do BT Sport employ that Scouse midget….
Kev, on the pitch, is the only way to F**k them up..
Kev if we get a proper DM we could do……
Saw my first Chav with a Drogba shirt on today…
If there is a team I would love to see Arsenal do the Double over this season, it’s those fcuking tosser Chavs…
Anything to get that smug midget the sack.
Rico, i end up hopeless…lol
Exactly Lee, getting the nibbles, that’s idle hands for you, Monaco 1 up.
You know me too well… lol
Over 5% and I’m hopeless Bt…
Yeah cooking lager/cider is not worth a…….
Lee, yip, most things north of 5% does it for me….
You only drink when there’s a Y in the day….
Another gold medal for Nicola Adams…
TV for me Tai…
😉 Lee, naughty but funny. You are giving me a bad name, anyone would think I drank a lot…. lol
Rico would of put Oliver Reed in a body bag back in the day…
Magners is too sweet….you like Aspalls?
How many of you are going to the game?
I’ll be watching on TV…, not Tommy…television.
Bt, hollow legs, but no staying power.. 😉
Afternoon Tai, thanks re the post…
A girl can dream eh? lol
Rico, Khedira and Carvalho? Big dreams…
Lee, your sloe concoction sounds a goer, but don’t believe it would knock out Hallow Legs Rico..
meant Khedira and a CB
Halloumi – nom nom, another favourite…. You tried the one with Chilli?
Lee, at moment Strongbow, for price and convenience, but Green Goblin, Westons, Scrumpy, Addelstones , but can’t stand Magners.
Afternoon Rico, All…
Great post.
The positive feeling is infectious. we’re feeling down here…but almost everybody wants Khedira and then wait for that bonuses, if TV stays.Otherwise it’s TV and a CB.
Campbell will stay…Injury is already derailing Sanogo…I’d bet he’d stay too. He’d fight it out with Campbell fo no 2 striker…but I still reckon Wenger will give it to Sanogo. It’s a pity he won’t play in the Emirate Cup.
Kev, good point you made re City and Lampard. Still they cheat to take Lampard via MLS route!
I just had some gridled halloumi….that bread Potter is lovely!
That would knock me out Lee.
Potter, I love the Catalan garlic bread, but having it the Italian way tonight…
BT, what’s your preferred cider???
Absolutely Kev and at least Lee can’t nick this lot… lol
I think this weekend is about many things, money of course, a chance for no ST holders to see the boys, and to measure us against two top clubs…
But yes, big start in the PL is needed…
Toast the bread , then cut a tomato in half , squeeze the juice into the toast put a squirt or two of Olive oil and then add the garlic and you have Catalan bread an aperitif starter in most Catalan restaurants.
Had a few sloe-gasms last night…..they get you hammered! My home made sloe vodka mixed with cava!!! Hmmmm!
Extra extra garlic I hope Rico 😉
The first 5 games of the season will define where we are going . This weekend is purely a pre-season money maker. Interesting but not too serious , there will be clues as to how we might play , formations etc but with the substitutions nothing will really gel . Next week will be more serious but there are 5 important games before the window closes that will have more effect on what the club does than this cup.
Three more signings before Sept 1st imo…
Every Gooner I see around the place, has a confident air about them…
Me too!
Lee, cider available 5 mins in 3 directions from home…..back near an hour now, fridge stocked, hands idle now, could be dangerous…lol
Just mincing a few bulbs of garlic to make garlic bread – goes nice with Cava… 🙂
Send it this way…..
Yeah, let’s break out the Cava, football is back…
How many cider’s you had Bt 🙂 🙂
BT that was a quick cider run????
Sun out now….
Ricko, are you sure they’re not ducks?
What a difference an FA Cup makes! How we perform in the Comm. Shield will give us vivid picture how the season unfold.
It’s hideous here, even the chickens are swimming… 😉
From his interview, maybe he would have left had we lost the FA Cup..
Like Adam said the other day, let’s hope Wenger has his mojo back….
Had it last night but it’s clear at the moment…..
AW. “Our belief have grown.” I love that. And there is something in his smile that tells me he believe that too.
Agree re TV, Barca or he can stay put.
Sanogo needs a loan, I think he’ll come good in time, just not yet.
You got heavy rain Lee?
We keep losing the satellite signal then when it comes back on it makes me jump… 🙂
Sorry but Sanogo is a no go for me…..
Sell him to Barca not those wankers in Manchester!!!
Lee, I kind of think that might be the case re the striker, then Sanogo/Akpom as back up.
I’m convinced we’ll get a DM in, but AW was so confident and upbeat yesterday, I don’t think we’ll get just one more player…
I think he’s off too Ng.
🙂 Lee, nope, not yet. But I just wonder what if…
Rico, if Campbell impresses at Emirates this weekend he’ll be the striker then it’s DM time…….
Sami and Carvalho…..you been on the Cava?
@Rico.It seems to come to the reality that TV05 will be sold? All these talks of him to ManU and Barc. I real hate to see him go.
Afternoon Ng, thanks.
Hoping our WC winners will be back for the start of the season, but it seems only Merts might be. Not sure why Podolski needs a long holiday as he hardly featured for Germany.
Hi Ts. any video?
Good Afternoon Rico and All
Nice post Rico.
“We will of course be without our German trio who are still having a little rest after winning some small tournament in the summer.” If that is the case then they need to turn up for the double this season. Arsenal came close last season; this season then fingers crossed.
How thrilled would we be IF we really are close to signing Carvalho and Sami…. ?
I’d have to open a bottle of Cava…. 😉
Hi Bt, have one for me and thanks …..
Hi Rico, nice post, cider calling, later.
Afternoon guys and gals…
Thanks re the post Ts…
Ts, you caved in, what’s the stats for that?..lol
hever castle for a couple of hours it is then for me…
Lee, time to get the boat out here, lashed all night and still going. Had an idea your were in Essex, sofa for me Lee, cider run first though…lol
Beautiful weather in Oz…just saying 🙂
No mate, it started raining at about 2.00am (as I was going to bed) and is now cloudy with the odd shower…..I’m in north Essex btw BT.
How’s it in sunny Ireland? Are you gonna be spot welded to the sofa this arvo? I’m contemplating the pub but the handbrake may have other ideas……
lol Bt… in an hour or so I will know… probably drop them off and then… 😉
Syg, frimps is signing for Sheff or Leeds next week…
Ts, Hever or The Emms, the choice is yours or is it ?
Good post Rico.
Morning all
Lee, is the sun shining in your neck of the woods?
I’m surprised you can get your hands on any in your household with you know who living there….. 😉
I’ll change that to I like Dom then. 🙂
Pie and mash next week Kev?
Am excited about getting an Arsenal fix this arvo!
Don’t like champagne much prefer beer….
BT. He likes Dom.
Lee, i thought you liked Estrella…morning all.
Morning brudder…..
Morning brudder….
Morning Rico and all. I imagine Lampard is going to Man City for the pies.
This is nice too….. not!
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2137359-lugos-new-beer-octopus-kits-are-the-most-ridiculous-football-shirts-ever
This is a cracking kit…
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2137471-cd-leonesas-new-tuxedo-kit-somehow-one-ups-cd-lugos-beer-octopus-shirts?utm_source=outbrain.com&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=global-swagger
Lampard to city?where will he play?Maybe he will go to city because of huge pension.Lol.Morning all.
i would wish the manager to go & sign SAMI KHEDIRA since no one can play his role as far as the defencive midfield is concerned. This is because ARTETA & FLAMIN both don’t have that to dictate. These season i want it be aflashback of 2003/2004 .thanks
Morning all, I will believe Khedira when I see him on arsenal.com, that’s my only fear now and if Arsene don’t get a DMF then all the good work this summer will be missing something huge
http://metro.co.uk/2014/08/02/arsene-wenger-bites-back-at-liverpool-skipper-steven-gerrard-over-luis-suarez-comment-4818825/?
Morning Rick, oops. lol
Nipping out with Fido, back in an hour….
Hi Guys missed you all this morning posted just after Rico put the new post up.
Morning again all..
Thanks Syg..
Wouldn’t it be nice to see a player announced today, just before the Ems Cup kicks off…
Ok, we’ll have to wait until Monday… 😉
Morning all.
We get did say he had to make a profit each season, and this time last year, Ivan reiterated that call.
Not now,
Now, we take the league by the scruff if the neck, and we do it the right way.
Tai, it isn’t bending the rules is it?
Man City aren’t doing anything dodgy, they’re being smart…
But I’ll tell ya this, they wouldn’t have done it a couple of years ago, before FFP, they ‘d be out spending zillions on some hotshot from the WC.
What the Lampard deal tells me, is that, maybe, FFP is actually having an effect.
Lampard is 36, not the kind of signing that you’d expect a moneybags club to make.
The fact that he’s English will be a plus to the balance of their 25 man squad also I guess?
Morning All
Morning Lee.
No mate, I’m working.
Are you going?
Morning Rico. Nice post. Wenger will tell us more on Monday. Great stuff.