What next for Jack Wilshere as his fitness raises questions??

Morning Gooners,

Boy am I browned off with football at the moment, England taking an early exit in the Euro’s has sucked any enthusiasm I had.

I knew we weren’t good enough and although I expected them to be knocked out early, they surprised me by winning their group but now its over and the reality has sunk in, my enthusiasm for the game is pretty low.

Having looked around the blogs, I have read that Jack Wilshere may not be fit to start the new season and someone has even suggested  that he has had further surgery on his knee and  had minor surgery on his ankle too!

Wilshire was out for all of last season and now his chances of starting the coming one is in doubt and I am now wondering why we are pussy footing around strengthening the midfield, after all we have attackers in abundance.

In other blogs I read that Wenger wants to keep Denilson!!

As John McEnroe once said: ” You cannot be serious”?

Denilson! I thought and hoped I had seen the last of him.

I’m struggling to understand why we are still persevering with the Denilsons of this world!

When he signed for us back in goodness knows when, he looked a good prospect but sadly we have now witnessed that he looks better on paper than he does on the pitch!

Many will say that Wenger may just be trying to get the best price for him and if the club that have had him on loan want to keep him, they will have to come up with asking price, but I ask you, it’s Denilson, just give him away, if need be, get him away from the club…

Getting back to Jack….

Many fans I know see Jack as a future great, he started his first season with us very well, a great prospect and was confident in his midfield role. He was strong in the tackle with his bulldog attitude and he also looked very comfortable and composed on the ball.

He certainly seems to have a natural footballing brain and he always appears to look as if he would run through walls if he needed to for his club.

I’ve had a long think about Jack and no doubt others will be of the same opinion that when he finally returns, he will just take up his regular position and carry on as nothing has happened..

Wouldn’t that be nice?

Reality is though, that a full season out of the game can change many youngsters and Jack has been through a few changes to his life.

Since he’s has been injured he has become a father, had a year of being on crutches and needing help to get around, back to walking normally  and then back to being on crutches again, all which must affect the mental side of his comeback into the game.

He’s also had to suffer the setback of not being able to play country in the Euros and of course the upcoming Olympics. Both must have been a huge disappointment.

I’m not sure Jack will come back and be the player he was before he suffered an injury.

I’m an Arsenal fan and I don’t really care about Jack and his family, I don’t care about how the setbacks are going to affect his life either and I certainly don’t care if his heart is broken because he missed the Euro’s and the Olympics!

All I care about, and maybe I am selfish, is Arsenal and our up and coming new season and whether or not Jack Wilshere will be fit, ready and able to make his return and I doubt he will….

Much has happened since Jack last played and many changes have taken place since he last graced the field – Fabregas and Nasri have gone, both who were no doubt a big influence on the young man and maybe a few more could leave by the time he finally laces up his boots.

I am wondering if Jack should either be moved on or put out on loan for six months?

Find out if he still has it in him to fight for his place.

Personally I don’t want us to take a chance on him and I believe he should be loaned out, get him away from our medical bays and let him show that he has got what it takes to prove himself, if he wants to stay.

It’s my belief that we can do great things next season and that we have started to build the team – we have quality players in Podolski, Giroud, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Gervinho, Campbell and Park – players Jack has not played/trained with and maybe more to come, will Jack be up to the challenge to compete for his place?

I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

Written by Steve Palmer

0 thoughts on “What next for Jack Wilshere as his fitness raises questions??

  1. Romford Pele (formerly HC) says:

    Thing is, nothing has been confirmed about Jack’s injury.

    The Mirror aren’t exactly the most reliable source. I’ll be surprised if Jack isn’t fine – too much unecessary worrying.

  2. rico says:

    Morning all

    Interesting post SP but for once, I disagree re JW, imho the club are taking no chances with him and won’t risk him until he is 100%

    As you say, he would walk through walls for Arsenal and his future is with us, wehn he comes back he’ll be ready mentally and physically, he’s no softie 😉

    Can’t wait to see him back playing…

    And thank goodness the euros are now over and we can look forward to the PL starting and hopefully a couple more signings together with Theo and RvP staying….

  3. rico says:

    Totally agree there Romford, and we all know the paps like to report doom and gloom re all things Arsenal…

  4. markzever says:

    Jack is irreplaceable,we don’t have anybody like him in our current squad,great technical abilities,positioning,ball control,dribbling skills,commitment…….can’t wait for him to return back thesame player even if it’s by November Iniesta taking on players yesterday reminded me of him

  5. Adam says:

    Steve. Not caring about Jack and his family, though admirably honest, is a little harsh perhaps. Personally, I think the club will need to handle him very carefully and I don’t see a loan as the right move. In a recovery situation family support is likely to be crucial so a settled home life can only help move this stage onwards and on to a hopefully happy conclusion.

  6. AJ says:

    Sorry mate but I think you have completely lost the plot here!

    Maybe it’s the boredom of summer but to suggest that we sell Jack Wilshere because he has had a bad injury is total lunacy; we would flog most of our players on that basis! He just needs to be eased back into the flow carefully and not over-used, something we should be able to manage, with a decent squad.

  7. Adam says:

    Watching what a magnificent player Cesc is last night left me feeling a bit numb. As the press are likely to laud him as the truly world-class player he has become I couldn’t help thinking that these are the same dickheads who couldn’t wait to see him out of Arsenal. They were packing his bags several seasons before he actually left us.

  8. Adam says:

    I agree Lee and it throws up so many obvious questions that I refuse to dwell on. Onwards and upwards.

  9. Scott from Oz says:

    I think Steve is playing the devils advocate here,and simply raising the topic….I could be wrong,of course.
    Jack is,at is best,our best player,and one of Englands best.
    I reckon I’d rather see him given another 6 months and bring him when absolutely 100% healthy,than have I’m back even a month too soo.
    I do not blame Wenger because injuries dictated it,but Ramsey was brought back too soon to regular football,and ran out of legs toward the end……..people should be a hell of a lot more forgiving of the kid.
    If the same happens to Jack,people will write him off as well.
    Ramsey will be much better this season,but his integration ideally would’ve been a slower process.
    On the cricket….well,from what ve seen,it’s an Irish guy and a South African doing all the damage 🙂

  10. Romford Pele (formerly HC) says:

    I miss Cesc so much – Wenger has to shoulder the blame for not giving him a competitive team whilst he was here.

  11. Matty says:

    If jack is going to be out for so long… my answer to this is to put ox in his role.. he ripped AC in that position.. so maybe this is an open door for him?

  12. emma says:

    Mr. steve all these your “i don’t care” don’t make any logical sense. Even if you are selfish you don’t have show that in your article, I doubt whether you know the meaning of human management ,pardon me if I’m sounding so rude. So please encourage AFC, Wilshere, i think it makes more sense even though they might not take notice of your article.

  13. vernat1066 says:

    Scott, didn’t know that Bell was South African 🙂 As for jack lets wait and see what is really happening rather than believing what the tabloids say.

  14. Terry says:

    Guys lets not forget its going to be just a 25 man squad.. do we really have place for injured players… no way on erath should we even be thinking about selling jack…. but the fact that we have jack returning from injury should not stop us from buying a attacking mid.
    Wesley Sneijder a 28 yr old attacking mid is who we should be trying to sign… and having wilsahre or diaby in the squad should not stop us from doing that. Also the fact that he is 28 now means his transfer value should be down to 15- 20m anythnig more than that we should rather be trying for modric or gotze.

  15. Scott from Oz says:

    G’day Vernat.
    To be honest,I didn’t watch any of the second game…..one day cricket isn’t really my go either way.
    Those knocking Steve based on one article alone should spend a bit of time and read back!!

  16. Valaintsteam says:

    I just hope Jack is not going to turn into another Diaby,and i cannot believe why Arsenal have stuck with Diaby?he is like sicknote Darren Anderton a decent player WHEN he is fit but the problem is he is never fit.get rid of him and use god only knows what he is being paid to get someone who keeps fit.

  17. rico says:

    Scott – it’s all too easy to knock posts, some should try writing them, but no, thats all too difficult putting yourself out there to be shot down…

  18. stevepalmer1 says:

    Morning, it appears i have ruffled a few feathers this morning, Jack Wilshere has been out injured longer than he has played for us in fact this could turn out to be the longest injury we have witnessed in quite some time. Now i know you all want to protect jack as you see him as a future great, but don’t believe all the hype about our Jack and how good he is, How many goals has he scored how many goals has he assisted what has he brought to the team in the last eighteen months, but the pay checks are still being paid out. Who gets injured then has an op then waits a year for recovery and then has another op meanwhile supporters are being lied to that jack will be back to help out several times throughout last season and no doubt this season as well, while we could have brought in somebody that may of made a difference. Its all right being loyal but meanwhile supporters are being duped, we needed a midfielder of quality for the whole season and got fobbed off thats no way to win the league. The year before we needed defenders and we never brought them and our season finnished the same as the last. If you want success forget about Jack and what he used to be capable of think about now and who will be fit and will help us win the league

  19. Steve says:

    So another ‘foot in mouth’ moment for our manager pre -match last night. Do you remember his gem from the last Euro’s ? – Modric cannot survive in the premiership !

    Watching Cesc and his team-mates celebrate last night I couldn’t help reflect that nothing in sport beats the feeling of winning. It doesn’t matter how many times you’re asked to pretend otherwise finishing fourth doesn’t come near.

  20. Lee says:

    Have Juventus got someone from Arsenal helping with transfer business? A 10m Euro bid for RvP….very Arsenal!

  21. DutchGooner10 says:

    Jacko’s situation isn’t comparable to Fabrice Muamba. So please take some distance to your reasoning Wilshire is handsomely paid to save his hobby not his life. If your local supermarket has personnel on crutches are you thumb wrestling patiently for the shelves to be refilled until they recover?

    Stop jackhammering Steve.

  22. markzever says:

    van persie just had his first full season since his arrival at arsenal and I believe every arsenal fan was thrilled with his contribution last season,we stood by him all these years,with the likes of Diaby,Rosicky,Vermaelen…….I see no reason why we should give up on Jack,he didn’t plan to get injured…….and for goals and assists they would surely come with time,even Na$ri had only ONE assist b4 he left

  23. Micko says:

    Afternoon all,
    SteveyP re 10.57, is someone holding a gun to your head, why else would you write that, Jack’s the real deal.

    Lee, maybe they’re only bidding for his boots.

  24. Scott from Oz says:

    I don’t think for one single second that Jack should be sold,but I still think Steve is entitled to put forward his opinion and it opens the discussion.
    To Steve…not Steve P…..Wenger isn’t the only person to get something wrong,and 90% of people were saying how boring Spain have been,now…suddenly…..everyone’s saying how wonderful they are.
    Commentators are fickle,and so are fans.
    Imagine actually forgiving Wenger a mistake!especially one so minor….heaven forbid,but it’s hardly worth discussing,is it?
    We’re struggling for decent debates atm…we desperately need a signing!!

  25. Charlie George aka AK says:

    Afternoon AKB’s
    Afternoon Rico.
    I see that BMX has been on again with another radical comment. Yawn.
    Controversial post Sir Stevo.
    Well written, but I cannot agree mate.
    Wish I had the time to be more specific.
    Adam, your welcome mate.
    Credit where credit is due.
    Lee, how ya doing buddy?

  26. Scott from Oz says:

    It sucks,doesn’t it DG.
    You know what they say though…no news is good news,but not at this time of year!!!

  27. W.A.T.H says:

    I blame Scott, he said he wasn’t coming back until we’d signed two more players………………..!!

    Afternoon one and all….!

  28. Adam says:

    Let’s remember that every assessment of a player from the length of contract he is offered, to his wages are all based on future performance, not the past. So an evaluation has to be made on the whole playing staff. What Jack has done is certainly relevant but Wenger uses his experience to decide his future potential. Same with Theo, RVP and everyone else, even Diaby.

  29. Adam says:

    If he thinks Arsenal won’t give him what he is worth, which is apparently £100k a week then I doubt Spurs will. Perhaps Theo is believing his own hype too much these days.

  30. Merlin96 says:

    AFternoon all.

    Forget about Jack for 2012/13 season as his injury woes are similar to that of Rosicky.

    Rosicky was out for 18 months and needed a year to rediscover his form as of Jan/Feb 2012.

    SImilarly, Jakc is going to be out for 18 months and needed at least a year to regain hsi match fitness and match sharpness.
    WIthin that year, like Rosicky and Diaby, there will be lots of niggling injuries as his muscular frames will be unbalanced and needs time to get the balance right.

    Never loan Jack out as it will send the wrong message as it is better he slowly regain his match fitness with us playing the odd cup games and gradually substitute in league football..at least he should be playing 20 games this season if he returns to the squad in October/November 2012.

    DIaby?
    I have a good feeling that 2012/13 season will be his season and we will see the best of him. He is dwelling on the ball less and pre-season training will be good for him to regain his match fitness and fitness.
    And if he suffers another long-term injury during pre-season and during August/September 2012, guess that is the end of the line for him and Wenger may allow him to leave on a Bosman in July 2013 or sell him.

    We have too many “midgets” in MIDFIELD to survive the season-long physical battle in league games. We need the physical presence of Diaby…or buy a midfielder with a physical presence.

    Aneke?
    Anybody had seen him played?
    How is he and will he makes it into senior squad this season?
    Or we are going to sell him like JET?

    Lansbury?
    If he is box-to-box like Steve Gerrard, then he may be that understudy to Alex Song. Can he grasps his chances during pre-season and impresses Wenger?

  31. Merlin96 says:

    Walcott?

    Well, if CHelski or Tiny Totts or even Liverpool bids £20-Million, I think Arsene Wenger will tell Walcott “It is up to oyu whetehr you want to leave or stay.”

    ANd that was the message given to Vieira when Juve tabled a bid and Wenger told him the decision was up to him to make.

    I have a feeling that Wenger was deeply hurt by the Nasri-Cesc Saga last season and vowed never to be caught with his pants down again……and he will get all his players in place before pre-season training starts.

    Van Persie?
    I believe that if a £20-Million is tbaled by PSG or Juve or any European club, Wenger will inform Van Persie it is up to him to stay or leave.
    Wenger will rather lose Van Persie on a Bosman rather than strengthen ABu DHabi City.

    But of course, if Mancini offers:
    Kolo + Adam Johnson + Dzeko = Van Persie……….. :mrgreen:

  32. Joaquim Moreira says:

    Witsell , a Belgium midfied player from Benfica is in the market for 30 million euros.
    Comparing him to TW or RVP, is at least, hilarious ….

  33. rico says:

    😆 Lee, does he have any?

    Be glad when they all get back from their hols Adam, we might actually find out what is really going on…

  34. Adam says:

    I doubt we will ever know what’s really going on Rico. No team has ever been the recipient of so many rumours. Look at Spurs. Who really gives a shit who they appoint as manager? Even the papers are disinterested. But they are creaming themselves over the potential Robin stories.

  35. rico says:

    I’m not sure JM – can’t be too long as we are off to Asia later this month…

    Ah, Janet and John Lee 😉

  36. rico says:

    Kind of meant they will sign or go Adam and I think we all need to know that answer..

    Always the way re us, anything they can write which is negative excites them, i’m hoping that AW is playing the same game with them and TW/RvP have already signed new contracts 😉

  37. rico says:

    Maybe I should drive up to the local VW garage and ask Theo’s brother-in-law if he knows what going to happen….

  38. W.A.T.H says:

    Arsenal back to training July 9th JM…..! That’s the first lot of players…! then in dribs and drabs as per their parts played in the Euro’s..!

  39. Merlin96 says:

    rico says:

    July 2, 2012 at 1:27 pm

    Merlin, there is no way anyone can predict Jack will be out for a further 18 months…
    ____________________________________

    Rico, you mistrued.

    Last season + 6 more months = 18 months.

    That is, June 2011 to June 2012 + 6 months = December 2012 before we can see a Jack regaining match sharpness.

    That is, basing on Rosicky’s tendon injury – again, another kind of mysterious injury that took such a long time to diagnose plus a long and slow healing process – Jack may be out for at least 18 months,

    I read some reports that said Jack had started running…but we will really know when the squad reports for pre-season training next week…

  40. rico says:

    Thought he had returned??

    Cruzeiro 2-3 Sao Paulo

    Saturday, June 30

    Denilson played the whole game as Sao Paulo recorded a 3-2 victory over Cruzeiro on Saturday. The visitors were 2-1 up inside 16 minutes and Brazil international Jadson added a third after the break. Cruziero pulled one back just four minutes later but Sao Paulo hung on for a crucial win in Serie A. The victory sees Denilson’s side rise to sixth in the table.

  41. Merlin96 says:

    Adam says:

    July 2, 2012 at 1:31 pm

    Agreed RIco. We are in danger of falling headlong into the void of conjecture once again.

    _______________________________

    That is the fun of bantering at forum isn’t it?

    If eveyrbody waits for the actual facts to emerge,,,,it will be kind of boring and pointless to post.

  42. Adam says:

    No not really Merlin. It is when people confuse conjecture for facts that things become boring.

  43. Merlin96 says:

    W.A.T.H says:

    July 2, 2012 at 1:46 pm

    Arsenal back to training July 9th JM…..! That’s the first lot of players…! then in dribs and drabs as per their parts played in the Euro’s..!

    ___________________________________

    Let’s see whether Wenger will complete all his signings by July 9.
    Euro2012 over…
    July 1 where all contracts expired and players’ agents available to negotiate when a club makes a formal bid….

    WHat is Wenger waiting for?
    To submit a derisory bid and then wait for price to drop and sign the players on 31-August at 23:59:59?

  44. rico says:

    Regardless Merlin, there is nothing factual that would suggest Jack will not be involved in our pre-season.

    Some are taking the media reports about his set back as gospel, personally, I am going to wait and see what the club have to say about Jack…

  45. Merlin96 says:

    Adam, it is all conjectures and became “facts” when all information are known.

    Like on Friday, I predicted it will be a drawn match with Norwich..all conjecture……and became a fact or delusion after 5pm on Saturday..

  46. Merlin96 says:

    Like I said Rico, I read somewhere that Wilshere had began running…

    Like I said, I based my conjecture on trend……and if everybody got a 100% prediction right on trends in the CIty…we will all become sterling billionaires.

  47. KM says:

    Firstly well done Spain, the best team in the world by a huge margin over the last 7yrs.Have to give kudos to the Italians and their manager…..very positive play and Pirlo – thank you for your outstanding play.I wish Leow hadn’t tinkered with his team selection against Italy. He must be regretting that now….

    Why is the M’Vila transfer taking so long? Could it be that we are waiting to sell a player to finance the deal?And when will the club announce RvP’s future?And wtf is happening with Walcott? Still a lot of deals/futures to be finalised – Bendtner, Squillacci, Vela, Arshavin, Djurou…… the list goes on……..

  48. KM says:

    Re. Wilshere

    I see him playing a role next season. He’s found his true position as a CM. I think he will give Arteta a rest when he gets fit.

  49. Merlin96 says:

    Adam, becasue Arsene Wenger and Arsenal FC are NEWS…..and Tiny Totts is a nonetity and generlaly, football fans around the world couldn’t careless about news on a 3rd rated ENglish team.

    But Arsenal FC…coupled with a charismatic and always news-worthy Arsene Wenger?…..it sells paper Adam.

    You should be more worried if tabliods and broadsheets ignored Arsenal FC with ManU, Chelski and Abu Dhabi City completely sominated the news without a mention of Arsenal, Liverpool or Tiny Totts.

  50. rico says:

    Merlin – it’s all guessing imho….. and it starts with the newspapers…

    KM – not sure we are still looking to sign M’Vila, really hope so, but would have though it would be done and dusted by now..

  51. Adam says:

    I am talking about when someone has no knowledge about something, invents a story (conjecture) and treats that as if it is a fact. Witness the amount of people who are assuming that Robin is as good as gone or that Jack’s career is in doubt or that Wenger doesn’t want to buy M’Vila because of his attitude. It’s the way the papers work. Most of the stories are fabricated to fit a mind-set that the poster has. This is a long way from predicting the score of a match to be played the next day. If you were to pass your prediction off as fact, then that’s where strangeness lies.

  52. Micko says:

    It wouldn’t surprise me if Walcott was holding out for more money, didn’t he do exactly the same thing a few years back when Ade got his bumper payrise for 1 good season, it worked back then, he’s probably chancing his arm, he’d wanna be careful he don’t lose his shirt.

  53. KM says:

    Re. BBC commentary

    Watching the match last night, Mark Lowrenson is such a bore and is so negative its unbelievable. He seems pissed off and irritated just watching the games. No passion nor does he sound positive at all.

    Can’t they get someone who is more knowledgeable about the game or someone who appreciates good football.

  54. Merlin96 says:

    Versatile defender Sead Hajrovic was another reserve hopeful to enjoy Football League experience last season.

    Although the 19-year-old’s spell with Barnet was hampered somewhat by injury, the young full back – who is equally capable of playing in the middle – made 10 appearances as the Bees avoided relegation from League Two.

    Sead has pedigree at youth level. He was part of the Swiss side that won the Under-17 World Cup in 2009, before going on to captain the Under-18s.

    Following on from Philippe Senderos and Johan Djourou, Sead heads a new generation of Swiss talent at Arsenal that also includes Martin Angha and Elton Monteiro.

    Sead has benefited from another year of experience and was a regular presence at right back for Neil Banfield’s reserves last season.

    Solid defensive displays do not always turn heads but Sead’s consistency bodes well for the future.

    From Arsenal.com

    ______________________________________

    Wonder he will feature in 2012/13 as RB since Sagna is injured and Jenkinson is “so-so”.

  55. rico says:

    Merlin – I would be a lot happier it the newspapers totally left us alone and concentrated on others…..

  56. Merlin96 says:

    2011/12 Player Review: Samir Bihmoutine

    Samir Bihmoutine again delivered another encouraging campaign and appeared twice as a substitute for the reserve team.

    The pacy left back is still adjusting to a more defensive role having spent the majority of his youth career as a winger, buthe has impressed with his application and enthusiasm.

    The 18-year-old will now have his sights firmly set on continuing his development by making himself a regular in the second string next term.

    SOUNDBITE
    “I’ve had to learn quite a bit about covering and about heading, which I wasn’t really used to on the left wing. I found it quite hard at first, with the increased physical expectation of playing in defence, but I’ve picked it up with time. I’ve got a programme from the fitness coach to help me with my strength on the pitch. I’m following it closely and so far it’s paying off.”

    From Arsenal.com
    ______________________________________________

    Look like Arsene Wenger will never change and loks to devleop versatile players instead of specialist player.

    Like Gibbs, another left winger, converted to LB…. 😆

    And vice versa like Eboue and Traore, FB converted into flank midifelder or winger.

  57. rico says:

    Micko – i can understand if he tries, he’s just got to realise when to step back and accept the answer he is given, sign on and get on with his afc career 😉

    We all try that in the real world 😉

    Lee – I didn’t know Lawrenson was a hairdresser….

  58. Adam says:

    If you are interested in how people string words together to make an article that has absolutely zero fact, a load of conjecture and bases it’s “story” on something read in such an impeccable source as The Mail, then read the illiterate ramblings of a fool on the latest Bleacher Report take on the Van Persie situation. It is just about everything that is so dumb about Arsenal coverage on the net and I can’t believe that the writer isn’t ashamed to be the author of such drivel or is in possession of a grammar checker.

  59. Merlin96 says:

    No Rico, then Arsenal FC is no more a threat in title race or even a marquee club.

    If tabliods leave us alone, we are just a 3rd rate club with a nonetity of a manager not worth the ink for them to write about…..like Preston, Nottingham Forest, Derby County, Leeds, Ipswich,,,,,all past league champion..

    Notice Liverpool nowadays is hardly in the news…….unlike 80s and 90s..and with Benitez….

  60. Merlin96 says:

    2011/12 Player Review: Hector Bellerin

    Remaining at Barcelona may seem like an easy choice for young players – but not Hector Bellerin.

    The young right back, together with team-mate Jon Toral, arrived at London Colney last summer despite offers to remain in Catalonia. It was a path well travelled by those before them, with the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Fran Merida having opted for life in north London early in their careers.

    “It is obvious that Barcelona is a big and famous club, but Arsenal is too,” said the 17-year-old. “Everyone has to make their own choice for their future and I believe that my prospects of development as a player would be better at Arsenal. To stay at Barcelona was an option, but they do not give the opportunities to young players like those available here.”

    The early signs suggest it is a decision which may well pay off for Bellerin. His marauding displays at right back have caught the eye, leading to a call-up to the reserves towards the end of the campaign where he once again impressed.

    As a first-year scholar it has been a swift rise for the Spain youth international, who now looks set to play a key role in next season’s keenly-anticipated NextGen Series.

    SOUNDBITE
    “The fact I was a winger for 12 years has helped me understand what my opponents are thinking and how they want to play so I am able to use that when I defend to stop them. The fact that I have had encouragement on the defensive side of my game gives me confidence because I never played in that position before I joined Arsenal and I am learning all the time.”

    FINEST MOMENT
    Hector announced his arrival on to the reserves scene with a goal in the 2-0 win at Chelsea in March. The young Spaniard showed lightning pace to storm past his man up the right flank before seeing his poked shot saved. But the rebound fell to him, which he headed over the line from a tight angle.

    From Arsenal.com
    ____________________________________________________

    Wenger will never change………. 😆

    Converting another winger into RB, perhaps he is another Lauren but with pace.

    Isn’t he that laddie that once landed in England, proclaimed: ‘My intention is to return to Barcelona in the future..” :mrgreen:

  61. Lee says:

    It’s on in the office and she/him were moaning about a decision and some shouted out “I think that last serve hit it in the testicles!”….well those sort of words! 😉

  62. rico says:

    I disagree Merlin, I am talking about the negative, the fabrication, the insults etc etc – when do they ever print the positive?

    Even after signing Podolski and then Giroud, they consider one to be a german fringe player and the other a ‘once league 2’ french player…

    So what, everyone has to start somewhere and a german fringe player, who is possibly better than most of the England players…

    Still, they all love Rooney, that’s what really matters eh…

  63. Lewis says:

    Good day all.
    When jack had his last op, were we not told there would be a 6 -8 week recovery period, which is normal and then there is the task of getting back to full fitness, which will no doubt take longer as we all know he’s been out a while. As far as I’m aware (I may be wrong) there have been no quotes or statements from arsenal or jack himself to suggest this time frame is going to extend into the coming season, only the press regurgitating material from weeks back planting the seeds of doubt. Unfortunately like has been said we will just have to sit tight until the squad has reported back, then hopefully we’ll be put out of our misery.

  64. Lee says:

    How much have the scousers spent in the last 20yrs? How many PL titles have they won?
    How much have the yids spent? Etc. etc.
    How much stick do these clubs get from the media???

  65. Adam says:

    I wouldn’t mind Rico but the writer is some American student with a damn computer. I doubt if he has ever even been to watch Arsenal play. His masterful conclusion is that Juventus is the best place for Robin to go but that a mega bid is on it’s way from Man City. In itself this old be interesting if it had any legs or decent source but this twat read it online in The Mail and has chewed it up and regurgitated it for The Bloody Bleacher Report as some sort of insightful article designed to irritate Gooners. What he is really saying is that just about anywhere is preferable for Robin than Arsenal. I fully expect another yank to write that he wants to go to Spurs next as he has always had a crush on the highly camp Villas Boas. Have these imbeciles no shame or sense of personal pride in what they commit to print?

  66. Charlie George aka AK says:

    Ah, the Bleacher Report…
    Now there’s an exercise in all that is worthless on the internet.
    A blog that attempts to present itself as a serious, intelligent and considered product.
    But really is a pile of shit…
    Just had a fantastic slice of apple pie with my tea & toast.
    That, my friends, is not conjecture but factual…
    Lee, busy mate yes.
    Ozil’s sister maybe?

  67. rico says:

    KM – I really hope Theo stays, but if he’s not comitted to us then 🙁

    I think he’ll stay though, as I do Rvp…

  68. rico says:

    Not impressed then Adam 😉

    I struggled to follow the article if i’m honest…

    I must be careful how I relay such stories in the Daily Fail 😉

  69. NashuaGunners says:

    Good Morning all and good morning to you SteveP.

    Good post mate especially when you take your valuable time to put it together but, I disagree with you on this one. All put together, how many leeways did the club gave to RVP, Diaby and others. JW did not injured himself during rock climbing or car racing. He should be given enough time to get back. Maybe Scott is right, you’re just playing the Devils Advocate. NO matter what, we should care about our players families especially those who will walk through wall for AFC.

  70. Adam says:

    Hi Kev. Inspired by the sheer banality of the piece I did a quick spot of research and discovered, through his bio, that he is an American sports nut. I suppose that as far as Mr Bleacher is concerned this qualifies him eminently to write about Arsenal. I doubt that anyone has told him that The Mail has about as much credibility as David Icke does in the world of sports journalism in the UK. But, I don’t hold the fact that he is an uneducated twerp, operating way outside his comfort zone, against him. It’s the appalling quality of his writing which is so irritating and the fact the he maligns Arsenal makes it even more so, especially as he claims to be doing a journalism course. This must be a correspondence course from the University Of The Bleeding’ Obvious because I think he’d be better suited to flipping burgers at the local McDonalds if this latest effort is anything to go by.

  71. Charlie George aka AK says:

    Merlin, Aneke is a very tall muscular player.
    But as with Diaby and to a lesser degree Emmanual-Thomas, they get saddled with the new-Vieira tag.
    But despite appearances, Aneke, like Diaby, is an attacking midfielder…
    He is very skillfull & quick for a big guy.
    Lata

  72. Adam says:

    I like ice cream with my apple pie but The Mail reports that Robin Van Persie is seeking a move away from Arsenal because Arsene Wenger, the legendary skinflint, has banned apple pie from the menu. Strong fortifications are being erected at the gates of The Emirates stadium as we speak to withstand the full force of the bid that Roberto Mancini is preparing and The Daily Star say Van Persie has told Wenger he is leaving along with Theo Walcott, Alex Song and at least 15 other first team squad players, leaving Arsenal without a team to compete in this years PL. Not that it matters as Hello say they have no chance of winning it anyway. For the absolute truth we are awaiting the latest installment from The Bleacher Report written by Julian Assange.

  73. Merlin96 says:

    AK, last I read that he had developed telepathic understanding with Benik Afobe when they were playing together.

    It will be nice to see the Aneke-Benik partnership in action during CC and FAC games.

    But really, knowing Wenger’s obsession with his youth project, always standby them and always fulfilled his pormise to let ’em have a run in the senior team, I wonder will Aneke be given his chance this season..like Conor Henderson and Benik given their chances last season?

    1 – Coquelin
    2 – Frimpong
    3 – Yennaris
    4 – Lansbury
    5 – Conor Henderson
    6 – Aneke
    7 – Tomas Eisfield

    Sad but true, I think I can see less than half can make it going by past trend where we sold the likes of Merida (on a Bosman), JET, Barazite and Ozakhup.

    And these are our regular 1st teamer MIDFIELD-TRIO in 2012/13 squad:
    1 – Song
    2 – Arteta
    3 – Rosicky
    4 – Ramsey
    5 – Diaby
    6 – Wilshere
    6 – New buy?

    The weakness in the squad is that we have only one creative ACM in ROsicky with WIlshere not match-fit during season start…and a dreadful Ramsey as 2nd choice.

    But I doubt Wenger will buy a creative central midfielder if he ahs full confidence in 19-year old Aneke or Eisfield or Conor Henderson or even fast-track a 17-year old Gnarby (remember a certain 17 year old Cesc in 2004/05?) as cover for Rosicky and WIlshere.

  74. Merlin96 says:

    rico says:

    July 2, 2012 at 3:13 pm

    Ramsey is in the final 18 for the GB squad…

    27-July to 13-August, plus 3-week rest = bit-part player for whole of 2012 since he will miss pre-season training….

    It opens the door for the likes of OX, Lansbury, Aneke, Eisfield, Henderson and even Gnarby to impress Wenger during pre-season to move ahead of him in the pecking order in the squad…

    Yes, OX, as Wenger once commented that he sees him as a central midfielder.

    Perhaps, watching how Spain played with 4-6-0, OX maybe that “Fabregas’ Role” behind Poldolski or Giroud or Van Persie.

  75. rico says:

    Merlin – he won’t need 3 weeks rest imho, as i said the other day, its just like a pre season for him, just not with his team mates…

  76. W.A.T.H says:

    Ramsey will hardly need three weeks rest Merlin that will be his pre-season he will be ready to play straight away..!

    The tissues and the shoulder are all ready Rico 😉

  77. Merlin96 says:

    Rico, it may be FIFA RUle..like World Cup where players are given a 3-week break before reporting back to club.

    But the key point is that Ramsey will miss the entire pre-season and will slip further down the pecking order. Wenger wants to rebuild the team and players who miss the pre-season will not feature very much in 2012/13 season due to fierce competition for places in the squad with a few 18 to 19 year old Wenger Wunderkind making a break-through this season.

    Look at the 18-man squad for London Olympic:
    SQUAD: Jack Butland (Birmingham), Jason Steele (Middlesbrough); Ryan Bertrand (Chelsea), Steven Caulker (Tottenham), Craig Dawson (West Brom), Micah Richards (Manchester City), Neil Taylor (Swansea), James Tomkins (West Ham); Joe Allen (Swansea), Tom Cleverley (Manchester United), Jack Cork (Southampton), Ryan Giggs (Manchester United), Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal), Danny Rose (Tottenham), Scott Sinclair (Swansea); Craig Bellamy (Liverpool), Marvin Sordell (Bolton), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea).

    I Swansea is the hardest hit with three 1st team regular players, and worse after losing their manager.
    I fancy Swansea as prime relegation candidate this season……

    Perhaps loan Ramsey to Swansea since he is training and playing with three Swansea players for the next few weeks in the good old English style of “kick and run”.

  78. Merlin96 says:

    WATH, it is not a matter of Ramsey not needing 3 weeks rest..but whether it is mandatory for clubs to allow their players to have a “3-week” break after competing in a major tournament.

    I knew that in World Cup, FIFA mandated that all clubs must allow their players to have a 3-week break before reporting back.

    AFter Euro2012, anybody know those players are taking a break for how long? 3 weeks?

  79. Charlie George aka AK says:

    Hi Adam. Enjoying your penship…

    Merlin, I would have to say that I believe that Coquelin has now made that step-up to 1st team squad regular.
    As far as the others you mentioned are concerned. If two from the remaining six also make the step-up then I would consider that a success.

  80. KM says:

    Re. Spain

    It’d be amazing if they won the world cup in SA in 2014.
    Back 2 back and 1st European side to do that

  81. rico says:

    Merlin

    It’s down to Ramsey whether he chooses to take a break after the games or not and my guess he will opt not to.

    Ramsey to Swansea, not in a million years, that would be like asking Wilshere to go on loan to the swampies..

    He is a Cardiff boy through and through………….

  82. W.A.T.H says:

    As far as I am aware Merlin no rules are in place for the players as they have just had a rest, the Olympics will act as a pre-season for most players that are in it.

    Dream on Chaz 😛

  83. Merlin96 says:

    This summer, he will be one of Korea’s three overage players allowed to play in the 2012 Olympics. Scoring a few goals would help win a place back in the hearts of the people back home.

    I hope Park CY will become one of the stars and rejuvenate his football career as a “fox in the box” that we miss since Eduardo.

    The best thing for him is to stay with Arsenal for one more season, plays 20 games this season, and then leave for home in summer 2013 to fulfil his military service obligations.

  84. rico says:

    😆 Wath, driver stopping at the florists on the way I guess …

    Charlie, you have a fight on your hands it seems…

    ‘Opens the door for Ox’ Merlin??

    That door is already open and it won’t be closing for a long long time…..

  85. absolutelyfabregas says:

    You’re jumping to conclusions and rash decisions that you don’t need to. Suggesting that we should move Jack on or loan him out because he’s been out for a year is ridiculous. Should we have done the same with Pires after his knee injuries? I realise he was older and had more games behind him but the same logic applies

  86. Merlin96 says:

    Rico, the door is open for OX as flank midfielders, usually on the right.

    But as central midfielder?
    If Ramsey is not around, then OX has a decent chance to play as central midifelder like in that Milan game.

  87. W.A.T.H says:

    Why you think Micko not on here that often Lee….. He’s under the thumb I tell ya……! Who can blame him with “her” indoors…!

  88. Merlin96 says:

    Anybody confident that Wenger is buying more experienced players in July?

    I think he is waiting to see how the squad turns out during July pre-season training and then perhaps start buying again in August.

    I think his priority is to get rid of those players and negotiating with Van Persie, Walcott and Song on a new deal.

    Is Gazidis doing that “Dein’s job” to releiieve Wenger of that onerous task of negotiating with player agents?

    Surely, Wenger is not such a control freak that he is scouting, spotting, reviewing, deciding and negotiating at the same time?

    Then who the heck is planning for the next season strategy, pre-season training and inovative tactical formations for next season?

  89. rico says:

    Merlin,

    have to disagree again 😉

    its a fight that – may the best man win and my money is on the ox 😉

  90. Adam says:

    The bitter truth Merlin and this will disappoint many, is that we don’t know. Only The Bleacher report knows what is going on at our club and they know because they can type The Daily Mail into Google.

  91. Adam says:

    David Icke has written a piece on Arsenal in The Daily Dickhead. He claims that Robin Van Persie will move to Manchester City. The fee will be “All the tea in China” and he will do so as he and that handsome prehensile brute Rob Mancini are both descended from Lizards along with Tom Cruise, Daphne from Eggheads and Bob Crowe. He quotes The Bleacher Report as his source and that’s good enough for me.

  92. rico says:

    Not captain Adam, surely, Vermaelen is the next captain… oh, but hang on, The Daily Mail say he is off to Barca..

    I would suggest to stop breathing to avoid the fumes, but that may not be such a good idea eh 😉

  93. Charlie George aka AK says:

    Why not find Campbell another Ligue Un team or an Eredivisie club if Lorient aren’t interested?

    Spanish clubs are the kiss of death to our loanees!

  94. rico says:

    All quiet here so I’m offski…

    Night all, stay safe… ‘Til tomorrow 🙂

    have a good one….

  95. Charlie George aka AK says:

    Same work permit problems with that Rico…

    Wonder if I might see him in pre-season, as I saw Galindo at Stevenage last year?
    Wellington is another one.
    Looks as if he’s gonna have to do a 3yr stint like Botelho.

  96. Joaquim Moreira says:

    But Campbell speaks spanish and Betis is normally, an average team. Besides, La Liga is broadcasting in his country and is a very competitive. So, in my opinion, if he gets the oportunity and keep in faith, maybe good.

  97. Lee says:

    The kiss of death has spoken!!!
    Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood says he is unaware of any club making an offer for Robin van Persie and has reiterated that the striker is not for sale.

    Van Persie only has 12 months remaining on his contract and Hill-Wood admits they are not currently in talks with the Dutchman as he is taking a break following Euro 2012.

    He has been linked with a move away from Emirates Stadium this summer, with Manchester City understood to be interested in securing his services.

    Juventus, Real Madrid and Barcelona are also believed to be keen on Van Persie, who enjoyed a stunning campaign last season.

    No dialogue
    However, Arsene Wenger has always insisted that he expects to keep hold of the 28-year-old and Hill-Wood maintains they do not want him to leave.

    “As far as I am aware nobody has made any offer for him and he is away so we are not in any dialogue at all,” said Hill-Wood.

    “We’re not in the remotest bit interested in selling him.”

    Reports suggest that Van Persie will speak to Wenger by phone this week in an attempt to sort out his future.

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