We’re off to one of our best starts in the Premier League, 8 points out of 12, unbeaten, and only one goal against in the first four games.
Our defence has been very solid, pivoted around exceptionally strong performances by our center back pairing of Mertesacker and Vermaelen. they along with Gibbs and Jenkinson, thanks to the coaching of Steve Bould, have gained a new positional sense, and are stirring up memories of our famous back four.
Before I go overboard I must remind myself that neither Sunderland nor Stoke tried to play offensive football which made our defensive task a whole lot easier, but that’s happened to us many times before and we’ve fallen foul to a sucker punch and had a goal scored against us – so credit is given where credit is due.
The mid-field is pure magic, who could have guessed that a five foot six, two footed Spaniard would make such an enormous difference to our team? Santiago has fitted in better than O.J. Simpson’s glove.
When have we seen a stronger more in depth mid-field? Diaby has a renewed sense of purpose, Arteta is a master technician and seems to thrive in the company of Santi, Ramsey is looking like the player he was developing into, pre Shawcross, Coquelin is a star in the making and we have Rosicky, Frimpong and Wilshere in the wings awaiting return.
What an offensive display we put on against Southampton, simply as good as I’ve seen in 65 seasons – and that is not an exaggeration. Of course I recognize that we played against a defensively weak team – but they were the same team that scared the poop out of the Manchester sides.
Podolski does not just look the part – he IS the part and has improved in each of his games, on Saturday Gervinho put in a masterful display of football – and long may it last. Walcott has to get off of the fence and make a decision on his future. We need fully committed players, i.e. Oxide who gives everything he has in every game.
Giroud will come good, but the longer it takes for him to score the tougher he’s going to find life in the Premier League.
In spite of Saturday’s display I fear for our lack of depth up front, the only other strikers in our squad (until the January 2013 transfer window opens) are Arshavin, Chamakh and under 21’s, so the last thing we need is an injury to one of our main strikers.
Goal keeping has been our Achilles heel for several seasons and our reliance on a 22 year olds confidence level is a tad scary, Mannone has looked like a good replacement and after that we only have Fabianski. It looks like a major omission in not bringing in a top shelf keeper during the summer.
Can we win the Premier League in 2012/13?
Even though I have very positive vibes about our team and our performances I feel that lady luck, and good refereeing decisions, will play a huge part in our fortunes this season.
Injuries to our strikers could hurt us badly and shaky goal tending could be our downfall, the type of errors made against Southampton will cost us points against any of the top teams.
Talking about the top teams, who I see as Arsenal, Man U, Man C, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs and Newcastle, I fully believe that our games against them will tell a bigger story.
I’ve broken our schedule down into 4 segments to highlight our games against each of them.
During the 1st segment of 10 games (Aug 18th to Nov 3rd) we play Liverpool (won 2-0) back to back games against Man C and Chelsea and then Man U.
During the 2nd segment of 9 games (Nov 10th to Dec 26th) we only play against Spurs.
During the 3rd segment of 10 games (Dec 29th to Mar 9th) we play Newcastle, and then in consecutive weeks, Man C, Chelsea and Liverpool, and finally Spurs.
During the 4th segment of 9 games (Mar 16th to May 19th) we play Man U and then Newcastle on the final day of the season.
So, in a segment sense, our 1st and 3rd segments are critical with the 3rd segment being immense with 5 out of 10 games being against the top teams.
Having the 3rd segment (Dec 29th to Mar 9th) as our most difficult is not all bad as it falls during the winter transfer window (Jan 1st to Jan 31st) which give us an ideal opportunity to bring in new recruits to strengthen the squad.
All in all I feel that a top 3 is our most realistic goal but I would not be shocked to see us win the league – however I feel that a Cup is our most realistic chance of a trophy.
Written by GunnerN5
Arsenal News 24/7
arsenalarsenal.net 
Superb Post, GN5 🙂
It was so readable and flowing I found myself at the end wanting more — so I went back and re-read it! 🙂
You are right to highlight the vagaries that can befall us all, even footie teams, but I agree with your conclusions that if injuries and poor refs don’t intervene too much we could just do it this season.
Fingers crossed – All 12 of them in the case of TerryM!! 🙂
GN5,
I like what you say very much.
I share your conservative appraisal of our defence. I have been fairly limited in my praise for our goals conceeded stats, and will wait until after the City and Chelsea games.
I am still a wee bit worried, however, come through those games and I will be overjoyed.
Against an attacking side like City away, I am quite worried about the protection offered to our CB’s by an Arteta/Diaby combo.
On the flip side, to hell with the defence….attack, attack, attack 🙂
Good post.
Agree with Red Arse and MickyDidIt89
As a team we still haven’t been really tested.
The first big test is coming now. Two worries for me versus City (and Chelsea) are Mannone and Mertesacker.
1. Mannone’s relative lack of experience ( at top level).
2. Mertesacker’s lack of pace – how will he cope against the likes of Silva, Aguero, Nasri, Tevez?
They are fast, quick-thinking, and world-class!
I’m not being negative, simply realistic.
Big Al, if they can isolate Mertesacker 1v1 then their pace will be an issue, but the way our defence and midfield are covering each other it’s less likely to happen.
I agree that it’s realistic to expect problems but a team consisting of Nasri/Aguero/Silva couldn’t get much out of us last season, I think they’ll be more than a little worried about Poldi/Gervinho/Ox /Santi coming at them as well.
Nice post, GN5.
Sunday will be a big test.
Fatty has a torn g-string and won’t play I believe.
https://twitter.com/janinatoys/status/248714850203742208
Good morning all.
Keep those fingers crossed RA we are going to need all the luck we can muster.
Micky, A great start to our season, but the completion of our 1st 10 games will tell us a more complete story.
Big Al, You’re correct it tales a long time for Mert to turn but he’s a far better player this season. Keeping Koscielny on the bench shows just how good AW considers the CB pairing.
Dick, Man C are a very good team, I’m hopeful of a point.
Good post GunnerN5, nice to “segment” you.
“lady luck, and good refereeing decisions” bang on the money, starting with Man City on Sunday
and Mike “ZeroDecisions2Arsenal” Dean.
Well how did we manage to get the ref who we have the most appalling record with, i yell conspiracy but then someone yells back “Paranoid Android” Jeez.
Thanks for a fine post GN5.
Nasri is out for a while so won’t play. I don’t worry about BFG’s pace. Was TA quick?
Great post G5, and if you think last Saturday’s performance was that good then I’m even more excited about this team.
@ Big Al
I hate that stereotype about BFG and speed. Yeah he’s not the quickest, but his timing and experience do not leave him exposed. His game last season against Aguero will show you that. Sterling and Suarez didn’t pose any problems either.
@ Jonathan
amazing song!
Oz
they were an amazing band for sure
oooooooo just noticed the assist widget, great idea Rasp…
oh well just me and the tumbleweed, adios
i dont think so arsenal have enough in them to break down teams that “park the bus”.
Thank you for the post GN5, really enjoyed it
Chas – that robbery had nothing to do with me, why did you ask?
Driving about yesterday, there was Arsenal talk on the radio, and I heard a brilliant line from Tom Wattnot. Someone said Mertesacker was a disaster waiting to happen, to which Wattnot replied: ” Very true, only the disaster don’t happen”.
He has a point.
Thanks GN5. I think and believe we will do it this year, and having 12 fingers and 14 toes means i have a strange insight into these things. But thats not important. What is important is that we are going in the right direction and closing the gap, and we are closing it fast.
We realy have nothing to fear. Having watched all our rivals this year then yes they are good, but not that good. Things are lossening up and doors are begining to open. I say lets walk in uninvited
We must accept the truth, and the truth says we are good enough and doubts are a thing of the past. Reminds me of the time when i thought someone was trying to mug me outside Arnos Grove Tube. I started running and the bloke stared chasing. After about a minute legging it with the “mugger” in hot pursuit, i was delighted to find that i was out running him. then in the distance i heard him shout “stop you idiot, youve dropped your wallet”.
Thats were Arsenal are at the moment. We have the quality, the players just have to believe they can do it, and then they will.
Mickey
Heard it too, its a wonderful quote.
Gotta lot of time for that guy he’s brilliant.
Evonne, no reason apart from I thought it was in your neck of the woods.
David Pleat: “I was only driving about, your Honour.”
Chas – oh, I see 🙂 my guilty catholic mind 🙂
Maybe some have misconstrued my post.
I wasn’t suggesting Mertesacker WOULDN’T be able to cope. I was posing the question “WILL” he be able to cope (?).
@ oz gunner
Suarez turned him, Mertesacker pushed him in the back. Penalty? Yes. But, thankfully, not given. That was only two games ago.
Big Al,
Happy memories. All the Pleat in the Skirt jokes.
Which reminds me, happy thursday Spudlings
@ Big Al
I’m sorry but a Suarez penalty claim carries no weight. He cries for about 10 a game. I do not remember 1 time where he has been exposed for pace when 1 vs 1. Yes he has the turning circle of a london bus, but it’s hard to get by the go go gadget legs!
My final comment today – sorry, I stupidly forgot to add this to my Mertesacker comments earlier…
I actually think Wenger will think same as me. He will assess the opposition’s forwards and choose our appropriate defenders accordingly.
Therefore, I expect Koscielny to partner Vermaelen.
Comments on that please, but I’ll have to check your replies, if any, tomorrow.
I’m 6 hours ahead of UK; the bars are open, the beer is cold, the birds are hot… and they’re calling my name!
@ oz gunner
Love your last sentence!
Classic, mate, absolute classic!!
Gotta go…
A very enjoyable read GN5, thank you for taking the time to write it.
There are as many persuasive comments as to why we should be worried about BFG as there are persuasive comments as to why we shouldn’t. I cautiously lean towards the latter; Sunday will tell us all we need to know.
Good luck Per.
Man City vs Arsenal
(Midfield battlefield)
Yaya Toure-Javi Garcia-David Silva VS Abou Diaby-Mikel Arteta-Santi Cazorla.
Diaby has to be 100% fit and ready to counter Yaya (A clash of marauding giants). Likewise, Santi has to outfox J.Garcia while Arteta needs to checkmate Silva.
Gervinho, Podolski & Giroud to test City’s defense while our defense to contain Tevez, Kun & Dzeko.
It’s a question of would you rather have Kozzers pace, or Mertersacker’s defensive radar, when it comes to dealing with the movement of Tevez and Silva? It all comes down to tactics. If we play a ridiculously high line like we have done in previous seasons then Kozzer has to start. If we carry on like we have this season and keep the full backs in line and sit a little deeper, then Mertersacker’s unbelievable reading of the game will be the better option. Just for the record, anyone who has about 80 German caps is no slouch at the back. His reading of defensive situations is the one of the best I’ve seen and that’s the reason he makes so many interceptions when standing still!
Anyway, back to the post GN5, it’s well balanced whilst remaining optimistic. Good stuff.
Just remember where we were last season after 5 games. We were the level headed ones when people were wanting the manager sacked and we were finishing bottom half etc.
Doing well after 5 games means we should still be the level headed ones whilst people are telling us we are going to do the quadruple and are the new Invincibles!
I personally believe that the 2nd quarter of games will be our most important as we don’t really play any big teams and we usually pick up injuries. If we can put a big run together and be close to the top 3 come the new year then we will have the potential and momentum to do very well this season. Going to a great ride this season!
Sorry if i dampen anyone’s optimism (TMHT!) 🙂
Good analysis GN5. I too share both your optimism and reservation in equal measures. I also feel we may be a goal-scorer light but we have till January to see. Maybe Giroud will start knocking them in and if Podolski and the reborn Gervinho can continue to what they are currently then we may be ok here. If not then you are right about needing to strengthen here in January to see us through the critical 3rd section.
Walcott for me should also be given a go in the strikers role as I feel we have enough other players who can now play wider and deeper. You never know if we started to give him game time through the middle he may come up trumps. I am however starting to worry that he will only be given limited game time while he has not signed a contract and in many ways you cannot blame AW in developing the team around players he knows will be here in the future. We could be entering a viscious circle here where AW is reluctant to play him a lot but that the knock on effect is that Walcott is even less inclined to stay as he feels he has become a back up player.
I can’t help but feel that Walcott is maybe hitting a self destruct button here and it was a situation that was avoidable if he had signed up some time back. I believe the club offered him terms last season but he did a RVP and used the classic “I just want to concentrate on my football at the moment and will talk about this at the end of the season”. It may be that if he goes in January instead of buying another wide player we replace him with a striker.
Thanks for the Post Gn5
Really enjoyable and, in my opinion, one of your very best.
I loved your “four segments” approach to the season. Being the sort of “glass half full” chap that I am I immediately got excited about segment #2 – nine games and none of them against a top side. It means that even if we get a couple of setbacks during segment #1 we then have a chance to really build momentum and confidence in the run-up to Christmas/New Year.
I think you are right to identify the attack as an area where an injury could cause us problems. And, like you, I am worried about our GK situation.
I was quite disappointed with Szcz against the Saints – but GiE made some excellent observations about how he was almost certainly injured in that game (although it begs the question why he chose/was allowed to play at all).
So far Don Vito has looked solid and confident. Fingers crossed he can keep it going.
No worries Ginge. It will take a lot more than that to dampen me.
I know that you think its one year to early and logic says that you are right. If we were to finnish top four this year and win it the next, then that will be great.
I just think we will pull the rabbit out of the hat this year. (and obviously retain it the next hahaha). The players just have to believe. Confidence and self belief, allied to the squads exceptional ability will see us through. Too many times in recent years the team has been derailed by its own mental failings. Failing to believe and realise potential can have severe repurcusions. When the good samatarian caught me up with my wallet, what did he start to do? He was so angry that i forced him to run 1/2 mile whilst he was doing me a favour he proceeded to beat me up, thats what.
Arsenal have the ability and quality required to win this league. They just have to take the opportunity.
Terry
You always make me smile.
Love the finale to the wallet story 🙂
Thanks Rocky. In fairness, he only punched me a couple of times….and then proceeded to give me my wallet. hahaha
TM
According to TalkShite, I know, I know, PSG claim to have secured a 400mil shirt deal, doesn’t this make a mockery of FFP?
LB, not realy. Thats the first ive heard of the PSG deal but ime guessing it follows the lines of the Man city one.
If we take the Man City one as an example its a £400 million deal over a ten year period i.e. £40 million per year. The points to note about this transanction is that Uefa are loking at its legitamacy and that City have come out publicly to state that a large proportion of the income is to be used on non FFP expenditure, e,g, training centres and youth projects. In addition City further argue that because the deal is a ten year one its reflects there “expected” marketiability in the near future. In other words its a deal that Barca and Utd could secure now and that they could secure in the near future.
This may sound perverse, but these type of deals are a good sign of FFP, not a negative. The like of City and PSG are pushing the rules to there limits but cannot take the piss. Let them have there £40 million a year. In a couple of years Arsenal will hopefuly aquire similar deals.
All we need is parity, and then we will blow them out of the water.
Terry;
The last time AW pulled the rabbit out of his hat was the 2004/5 FA Cup final – trouble is the rabbit ran away and he’s been looking for it ever since…..
Rocky, Cheers.
To put it in a nutshell I’m nervously optimistic about our season.
GoonerB,
I’m bemused by the Walcott situation.
Why is he still here, If AW wanted to keep him then he should play him. Maybe Walcott tried but could not secure a transfer and AW has decided he is a lost cause for next season and will only play him;
A) to rest key players B) if we sustain injuries C) if he signs a new contract.
Personally I think he’s outstayed his welcome and his potential is simply that – potential – possibly to remain unfulfilled..
Just noticed that Arsenal have signed on 18 year old Jack Jebb.
It’s interseting to note that all of the youngsters with high “potential” are being given contracts over 36 months prior to their 21st birthday, therefore building up our future “stock” of home grown players.
Guess who?
Nice one Chas
I had completely forgotten about Santos.
Haha, Rocky.
Guess who’s back.
Back again.
Jacky’s back,
Tell your friends.
GN5
My guess is that no one came in for him, possibly becasue they were not sure that he wanted to move but it is fairly clear now that all parties will listen to offers.
He looks older.
He is older.
His balls have probably dropped by now.
Bloody hell, the size of Jacks thighs. Reminds me of the wifes legs. Its great to see him back. If he has a good season we will win the league in Wenger fashion. Com -fort -ably.
Do I sense a stirring, Terry?
Afternoon all, Apologies for my late arrival – I’ve been to Brancaster and back!!
Thanks for the post GN5, I share your cautious optimism. I think our best chance of winning the prem will be decided by the defensive frailties (or not) of the other contenders and our own luck with injuries.
chas … do you like your assists widget? 😛
Wilshere would have been so useful against Mortpellier in the second half; he has genuine defensive qualities, more so than Arteta, Diaby and certainly Ramsey plus his passing is top drawer.
They offered no aerial threat so 60 mins off with Diaby on with Jack.
Where will he play this season?
Arteta is not going to be able to play every game, so I expect Jack to be eased back in there, sharing the role if you like. When we play a Stoke or someone like that we need Diaby’s height but against the Montpelliers its the Asturian, the Basque and the geezer from Stevenage.
It’s cock on, Rasp.
It was your idea. 🙂
Jonathan noticed it at 11:14.
Nay, nay and thrice nay chas – it was all your idea 😕
Jack will not only be like a new signing once he’s match fit, but he’ll be coming back into a completely different team.
Cesc, Clichy, FFBW, bsr, Song have all left since Jack was playing in 2010/11.
Tommy didn’t really play in that season plus Gerv, Arteta, Santos, BFG, Cazorla, Podolski, Giroud and the Ox are all new to him.
Your honour, I refer you to comment 195282 on September 19 2012.
https://arsenalarsenal.wordpress.com/2012/09/18/can-arsenal-win-at-montpelliers-carrelet/#comment-195282
Damn you Sherlock!
Looking at how quickly the understanding has developed between Cazorla and Podolski, I’d bet Jack can’t wait to see competitive action with his new teammates.
He’s going to love playing football again.
Here’s wishing him all the best with the rest of his recovery to full match fitness.
Should Chas be included in the new widget for assisting with its creation?
No
Good point Chas @ 3:39
and he has lots of new tatooes, was probably bored not playing for so long. Let’s hope he starts soon or he’ll end up looking like Mereles
Good point LB @ 4:03
Random video time
LB,
Although I have always agreed with you over JW’s best position, I don’t see why he cannot play alongside Arteta, as well. At the moment the options are Diaby/Coq/AR, well to my mind, Jack encompasses the best bits of all three (excluding the AD height advantage).
.
Happy Jack
chas @4.35
😀
Ping Pong too.
Good point Micky @ 4:11
It was an attempt to get a vanishing comment to appear, Rocky.
I’d like to apologise for filling up the Arsenal Arsenal screens with too many comments in the last two days. My old banger is in the garage and I think I’ve got cabin fever.
I thought it was, literally, a “good point” Chas.
I thought you were being very witty 🙂
(as usual)
Please keep the comments coming Chas – they never fail to inform and/or entertain. But I think you should let her out of the garage now. Or at least take her a plate of chips.
LB
I would imagine our first choice MF line-up with everyone fit will be Arteta and Wilshere, with Santi ahead of them.
And you can trust me, because I always speak from a position of confident ignorance.
Haha, Rocky. Far too sharp for me.
I usually get a comment like that when I tell people I’m having my boiler serviced.
I have a friend, or more to the point – I had – a friend, in his mid forties who was a regular guy, a male most of you would have liked.
He was a sensitive sort of feller, who had great empathy for the trials and tribulations of other human beings, in general, but women in particular.
Some time ago, he told me, as a man of experience to one, like me, who has been described as naive and gauche (something I disagree with – obviously) that it is important for men to remember that, as women grow older, it becomes harder for them to maintain the same quality of housekeeping as when they were younger.
When you notice this happening, he said to me, try not to shout at them. Some are over-sensitive and there’s nothing worse than an over-sensitive woman.
His name was Norman. And he related to me how he handled a delicate situation with his wife, Pat.
When he took ill last year, and was let go by his company, it became necessary for Pat to get a full-time job as they needed the extra income to replace his salary.
Shortly after she started working, he noticed she was beginning to show her age. He usually got home from the pub about the same time she got home from work.
Now she knew how hungry he always was about then, but she nearly always claimed she had to rest for half an hour or so before she started the dinner.
He didn’t shout at her, but instead told her, quite reasonably, to take her time, he would wait, and she just had to wake him when she had dinner on the table.
Let’s face it, he generally had lunch at the pub so eating out again in the evening was quite out of the question; he was understandably ready for some good home cooked food when he got in.
She used to wash and dry the dishes as soon as they had finished eating. But now it was more usual for them to sit on the table for several hours after dinner.
He did what he could by diplomatically reminding her several times each evening that they wouldn’t clean themselves.
Obviously he knew that she really appreciated this, as it seemed to motivate her to get them done before she went to bed.
Another symptom of ageing was the complaining.
For example, she would complain that it was difficult for her to do the shopping during her lunch hour, as she needed the break.
But he believed we men have to be considerate towards women, for better or worse, so he just smiled and offered encouragement.
He told her to stretch the shopping out over two or even three days.
That way she wouldn’t have to rush around so much. He also reminded her that missing lunch completely now and then wouldn’t hurt her. Tact was always one of his strong suits.
He also noticed that when doing simple jobs, she seemed to think she needed more rest periods. She had to take a rest when she was only half finished mowing the lawn; or when cutting the logs for the fire, or needed several extra breaks when she was vacuuming throughout the house.
Now vacuuming when he was trying to watch ‘Match of the Day’, really bugged him, and showed a lack of care, but he tried not to make a scene. After all was said and done he considered himself a fair man.
He lovingly told her to make herself a nice cup of tea when she looked piqued, and to just sit down for a while and enjoy it, but as long as she was making one for herself, she might as well make one for him too.
Altho’ a modest man, he knew many people probably took him for a saint in the way he supported Pat. Frankly, showing this much consideration and compassion wasn’t easy. Many men will find it difficult to achieve. Some will find it impossible!
Nobody knew better than him how frustrating women got as they get older.
However, if you guys show even a little more tact and a little less criticism of your ageing wife or partners, because of his example, he would have considered it well worth my telling you all.
After all, this saintly man believed we are put on this earth to help each other, right?
There is, however, a salutary footnote to this story:
Norman died suddenly, a couple of months ago.
He was found with a 24-inch Stanley screwdriver rammed up his arse, twice, with only 2 inches of the blade left showing.
His wife Pat was arrested, but the all-woman jury accepted her defence that he accidentally sat on it and skewered himself, twice!
How’s that for gratitude?
Someone mentioned PSG earlier. They have actually signed a Stadium naming rights to a qatari something or other, It’s a bit like the shitty one as it’s really the owners putting more money in and getting around FFP. Let’s see if the little shit platini does anything as his son sits on the board of PSG apparently.
Ok RA, I’ll take the plate of chips out now, I promise.
Same the whole world over, men always end up getting screwed by women………….
It was a small town and the patrolman was making his evening rounds…
As he was checking a used car lot, he came upon two little old ladies sitting in a used car. He stopped and asked them why they were sitting there in the car. Were you trying to steal it? “Heavens no, we bought it.” “Then why don’t you drive it away.” “We can’t drive.” “Then why did you buy it?”
“We were told that if we bought a used car here we’d get screwed… so we’re just waiting.
GN5, 🙂
——————————————————————————–
A young woman in New York was so depressed that she decided to end her life by throwing herself into the ocean. She went down to the docks and was about to leap into the frigid water when a handsome young sailor saw her tottering on the edge of the pier, crying. He took pity on her and said, “Look, you have so much to live for. I’m off to Europe in the morning, and if you like, I can stow you away on my ship. I’ll take good care of you and bring you food every day.” Moving closer, he slipped his arm around her shoulder and added, “I’ll keep you happy, and you’ll keep me happy.”
The girl nodded yes. After all, what did she have to lose? Perhaps a fresh start in Europe would give her life new meaning.
That night, the sailor brought her aboard and hid her in a lifeboat. From then on, every night he brought her three sandwiches and a piece of fruit, and they made passionate love until dawn. Three weeks later, during a routine inspection, she was discovered by the captain.
“What are you doing here?” the captain asked.
“I have an arrangement with one of the sailors,” she explained. “I get food and a trip to Europe, and he’s screwing me.”
“He certainly is,” the captain said. “This is the Staten Island Ferry.”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5rENHzeIhE
No one was hurt in the incident, and the game was allowed to continue once the referee had changed his underwear.
hahaha, brilliant story Redders. To be fair though, any man who allows a women to do the hoovering whilst watching Match of The Day deserves all he gets in my opinion.
hahaha, nice one chas. Arnt the officials meant to safeguard the players? It would definately be women and children last with that lot. They legged it faster than me running from a crowded bus stop, the cowardly swines.
Redders 🙂
Gn5 🙂
Im with your optimism n5. I see alot of people here debating merts vs koz against city. I love merts, i was hoping we would sign him and ive been proven right. But since he hasnt had a minutes rest, i would like to see koz against silva, aguero, tevez. We need to give our guys some rest occasionally, especially with such quality on the bench. Besides, we would like everybody to be happy, and kozzer just extended his contract.
Jack the lad is back
@ TMHT
haha I’m glad you noticed too, the first thing I noticed was ‘Wow he’s bulked up in the thighs a bit’, then I thought ‘hold up that wasn’t too manly’ but stuff it its good to have him back!
Nothing wrong with a bit of love for jack!
I dont think the Gunners can win the league this year i think Man City are far to strong for most in the league, however the way they have started can give all fans optimism that the glory days maybe returning. I’m not sold on the defence but the additions of Podolski and especially Carzola who ive followed for a number of years are quality additions that can only help the side and give the fans something to shout about.
check out my blog http://completesportsblog.wordpress.com
Guess who? 🙄
http://twitpic.com/awn968/full
Micky/Rocky
Helloooooooooooo
I didn’t realise the last sentence of my 3:24 was so cryptic.
The Asturian…….Cazorla
The Basque……..Arteta
The Geezer from Stevenage………….sod this I am not even going to bother writing his name.
It seems that you liked all my points except for this point which now appears that you didin’t realise was exactly what you were saying so if this is a good point as well then we all agree with all the good points 😉
I knew who you meant 🙂
Thank you Peaches.
The lazy so and so’s couldn’t be bothered to read all the way to the end of my five sentence comment. lol
Gn5 – I love the fact that we can feel quietly or nervously optimistic and it seems that many of us do. I do share your worry about a striker and think that Theo should be played through the middle if he thinks he’s so bloody good in that position, lets see what he’s got 😉
Also, I’d forgotten how fabulous Jack was before his injury …….ooooh come back soon Jack 🙂
😆 is there a raises her eyes smiley? Oh yes this one 🙄
A fair assessment of our current state of play GN5
The segments you have highlighted are interesting. For me the most important I e is the second segment, with 9 games and 1 of them against Spuds we need to amass 20 points to have a chance of being in for the league. The top sides will all take points off each other it’s how you perform against the rest that counts. City beat United twice but United still could have won the league if they’d avoided defeat to Blackburn at home or Wigan away or beaten Everton at home.
One thing we should remind ourselves is that a couple of defeats now will not destroy our chances they are mere blips.
A point at the Wastelands will be good.
Attention all AA’ers … this is a message that TA/totAl/Total Arsenal wanted put up on the site ……
……..I am in the process of setting up a new Arsenal blog and am currently waiting to be included on NewsNow in order to properly kick-start the blog. The blog is named Bergkampesque and you can have a look at a couple of recent posts by visiting the site:
http://www.bergkampesque.com whenever you want, and I am keen to hear your feedback. My aim is to offer another quality Arsenal blog next to the unparalleled ArsenalArsenal blog; one that also celebrates the past and current greatness of our beloved Arsenal.
As discussed with Peaches, it is my intention to continue blogging on AA and keep writing posts on a regular basis for AA, where I have so many cyber friends.
GN5. Excellent post, perhaps your best. Taking the season on phases is a fine idea.
GIE. Have you read my MC post in drafts ??? Uncanny
Lazio are seriously poor – they’re making the spuds look good 😦
WHL half full. Big club my arse
We got the better German striker, Klose has not been a patch on what we’ve seen from Pod so far.
You are right Rasp, I think Peaches could have put away one of his chances!
Interesting that the Spudders have started with more or less a full strength team. Quite a difference from ‘Arry’s approach last year.
AVB may think this competition is his best chance of winning something this year.
scummers failed to score at home, will struggle in Italy 🙂
Big club my arse
or
Big Arse my club.
Don’t really know why I said that.
Bit worrying about TA, his input plays a key role in making this site as good as it is.
Hey TA.
Have you ever met Rasp? You do realise that he is in fact only 23 but the responsibility of running a site has aged him to how he appears now.
Are you sure you want that?
Well played GN5….the segment analysis was inspired, Its clear that a lot of thought and effort has gone into it
I’ll be disappointed to not finish 1st or 2nd in the League, based on what I have seen so far.
TA,
What’s all this then?
Have you been taking lessons from brave sir robin in the making of statements? 🙂
I can’t quite get my head around you saying that Arsenal Arsenal is unparalleled and yet you want to run another Arsenal blog in parallel to it.
I can completely understand if you want to write a blog on a daily basis but I think one of AA’s strengths is its variety of post writers.
Anyway, good luck with the new blog and I hope you do carry on commenting and writing posts on here as is your intention.
Alright Chas…et al..whats worryig abut TA…??
OK fpund it….wheres theworry in that…??
Lennon as captain. Is AVB taking the piss?
I don’t think there is any worry in that, Sharkers.
It was LB who was worried. I am just puzzled.
The worry is we might have to get off our butts and write more posts.
Selfish? Moi.
Chas
You were kidding when you wrote that Lennon was captain?
He was, LB, and when he went off subbed, he passed the armband to Defoe. 🙂
LB,
Fancy an Arsenal helmet?
I expected them to crash and burn this season but this is going to be even more spectacular than I expected.
Where do you find these things?
I am off, see ya.
Haha, they looked a bit like Fulham/Swansea lite this evening with Dempsey, Dembele, Sigurdsson (only on as sub) and Caulker playing.
I think they have the makings of a good team but Villas-Boas should feck it up nicely. 🙂
Hi Rasp and Peaches, many thanks for putting up the message. I appreciate it very, very much! 🙂 🙂
Hi LB and Chas, thanks guys. Nothing will change as I will continue to contribute about a post per week as long as Rasp and Peaches would like me to.
I just like to write a lot more posts and I have a few ideas for Bergkampesque that I like to explore.
And Chas you are right: one of the key strengths of AA is its diversity of writers and that should really never change. I am very proud to be part of that group and long may it continue.
Chas, I only watched the 2nd half of the Spuds game and it was all very strange. There was no atmosphere – it was all so subdued. What made me laugh is when they did not have any balls to restart the game. The skinny chicken must have eaten them all up! 🙂
GN5, that is a great post, really it is. I can even forgive those little North Americanisms that have crept into your Islington boy’s lexicon (“goal tending” etc)! 🙂
Your tone of rediscovered, and realistic, optimism chimes with me, and it seems others. Can we win this season? Unlikely but possible. And the suggestion of the opening games is we might enjoy the ride this season.
But your point, that we’re thin in terms of strikers is the thing that worries me most. I know we’ll score goals across the team this season, and we have some excellent attacking players. But I feel sure we need another, credible option. I like Giroud but he’s insufficient in terms of number and (sorry to say this) I think quality too. It’s early days for him, and I could easily be proved wrong, as I have been many times before, but my impression is of a hard working, team player, but someone who does not have that bit of magic that can make something happen from nothing. United have van Persie and Rooney, City have Aguerro and Tevez, Spurs have Adebayor and Chelsea have Torres, each capable of pulling a rabbit out of the hat. We have a midfield better than any of them other than, perhaps, City, whose midfield is about on the same level. But we need more in attack.
Perhaps Wenger really does plan to go for Llorente in January, or even my old fave, Giuseppe Rossi, whose recovery from injury should be complete by November. Or perhaps there’s another plan.
But even if we don’t get that recruit in, I think I’ll still enjoy this season, especially if we can finish above one or both of United and Chelsea, as I think we can.
Total, well done for having a go with your new website – the more, the merrier I say! Just don’t forget, you’re legally bound to maintain the number and quality of contributions here, so you’ll have a lot on your plate from now on!
Great name for the new site, I’ll certainly be visiting.
Did Big Al really say that Mertesacker pushed Suarez? Bleeding hell Al, the BFG’s fingertips lightly brushed Suarez’s shoulder, and the cheating little racist dropped to the floor as if he’d been stabbed. Absolutely no way was it a push, and no way was it close to being a foul of any sort – if that level of contact had happened anywhere else on the pitch, Suarez would’ve stayed on his feet, no question.
Cheers 26, the more the merrier is exactly what it is about. 🙂
I must be one of the very few who is absolutely not worried about our ability to score goals this season. Even though I don’t think we need as many goals as we scored in previous seasons in order to be successful due to our solid, mean defence, I reckon we will get back to about 2.4/2.5 goals per game this season. Something we never achieved when bsr was leading our attack.
I am sure Giroud will come good; not in the bsr sort of good, but more in the ‘better version of Chamakh’ sort of good. We still don’t use him enough to…..here it comes Micky…………bounce the ball off. I love Cazorla, great player. It is still early, but I feel he discriminates the middle and right side of the pitch, in favour of the left side; as he has found natural allies in Podolski and Gibbs.
Hi Johnnie, if you are reading comments at the moment, I would like to respond to the comment you made yesterday re Wenger should have made chances to his team selection.
In principle you are right. And, as I wrote in the match review, initially I thought the same. But looking back now (and yesterday) I felt that the only reason we somehow won that game was the simple fact that we were more experienced than Montpellier on the night.
Had we played a less experienced side, we would not have made it imo. Wenger has done this in the past on a few occasions and it always seems to backfire on us. Montpellier were up for this and had we lost last night, we would all be sitting on a downer now. And taking that into a difficult away fixture against the Northern Oilers is far from ideal.
Chas in late reply to your 4:16 here is a Masterchef one
@ RA
great story. reminds me of this
http://newsflavor.com/world/usa-canada/woman-cuts-off-husbands-penis-and-tosses-it-in-waste-disposal/
Apparently she drugged his dinner with sleeping tablets. I was warned that the same thing would happen to me if i strayed! I laughed…she didn’t
Stop it Oz, stop it now!
Logically, the CB debate is Mert vs Kos. But if there is a change on Sunday, mightn’t it be TV who gets benched? Yes, I know he’s the captain and I know he’s the left-sided CB whereas the other two usually play on the right side, but it’s still a possibility. I certainly can’t see Mert being dropped, given his impeccable form. And it was TV who looked shaky on Tuesday.
But in truth, the defence will probably be as you were on Sunday.
@ 26
For such a big game I can’t see Kozzer coming in either. It’s too risky when BFG and TV have been playing so well together, and Kozzer hasn’t played much football recently. A few years ago who would have thought we’d have such a CB conundrum!
This is why I would have preferred Arteta to be Captain, as he is a lock in midfield, TV is not.
Speaking of Arteta, I watched the Champions league game again and noticed the look on Arteta’s face after he clattered into a playing in the opening stages. He ran into him and elbowed him in the gut, saw the player on the floor being dramatic, kept walking and scoffed! He is as tough as they come haha
26 you have highlighted one of the reasons why I didn’t want TV5 to be made captain, it kind of makes him undroppable, and as you say after his performance against Montpellier he would be the one to be rested if I was wanting to bring Kozzer in.
Unlike Oz I don’t think it should be Arteta either as when others are fit he might not be first choice (hard to see it at the moment).
In some ways there is an argument for Arsene’s theory on captaincy with the current squad as it keeps everyone on their toes.
All that said I hope TVs performance in Montpellier was just a little blip
Morning all.
Total,
Good luck with your site, but do stick around here with your silly old-fashioned total ideas 🙂
LB,
Eh? I did read, and even understood, your comment.
GiE,
Is “Arsene’s theory on captaincy” the “eleven leaders” one?
Pretty much Micky, and the fact he believes its not that important to go for the coin toss etc.
I know everything about Spurs is always quite funny in a laughing-at-them kind of way, but I would like to see them having an extended run in the Thursday Cupette.
Morning Fellas, 🙂
Thought I would pop into Micky’s early morning Dinette to see what’s what — and I’ll have my usual black coffee, no sugar please.
Now, who are we going to sort out today? 🙂
Hi GiE,
My guess, and that’s all it is, is that he takes that view as a result of having no option. In other words, a stand out, always on the team sheet, leader.
Right now, I would think Podolski is inching his way towards the job.
Morning RA,
I’m about to saddle up and head London way for a meeting, so won’t be around to help you “sort” him, or her, out.
Just heard the TA news about his new blog site, and am still coming to terms with it.
How could he do it without me??? 🙂
Morning All
RA. In answer your question…. I am a student and bloody hard work it is!
Good luck to TA ….. but only if he stays blogging on here and doesn’t do a Nasri.
26. You have identified a problem I foresaw when TV was appointed Captain. TV is probably the most inspirational passionate man in the squad – he leads by example and is very vocal. My guess is that Arteta is not a man who enjoys public speaking. But as you say, does this mean TV is undroppable? I hope not.
Oz. What a dreadful story to read over breakfast! That she waited for him to recover consciousness before his “surgery” ….. owwww
@ 26may1989 and
@ oz gunner, too
I’ll try to see the Suarez ‘penalty’ again, and if I’m wrong I’m Big enough to admit it…
So, direct me someone.
Morning all.
GIE,
I like a Buttery Biscuit Bass. 🙂
Morning all, I can’t understand the Lazio fans making monkey sounds at totnum players when they’ve got black players in their own side.
Once again we will see UEFA exhibiting selective leniency on teams from countries where overt racism is known to exist.
It should be zero tolerance and one rule for all.
Is this the one, Big Al?
(please ignore Stewart ‘I hate Arsenal for sacking me’ Robson)
http://arsenalist.com/video/?id=xt7vw4
Suarez going down wouldn’t have anything to do with the ball being 4 yards in front of him, would it?
He got a bit of practice in in the first half.
http://arsenalist.com/video/?id=xt7v0z
Thanx for that Raddy.
You are right that Uni can be tough going when you have to be self disciplined and eschew other, perhaps more pleasurable, activities and put your nut down and concentrate.
The key words are ‘self discipline’ I suspect! 🙂
What are you reading? Music? [If that is too intrusive, I will not be offended if you would rather not answer!] 🙂
Danish history, art and architecture….. in Danish. I would like to become an official Danish tour guide which requires a degree.
Much like the London Blue Badge Guides who are absolutely brilliant and inspirational.
Morning all
TV as captain – I also felt it would be a decision that would give AW a headache long-term. I can’t see an answer unless he could have given the armband to two players to share or maybe even three ……
Morning all, I am glad LB and Chas responded to TA’s announcement. I didn’t know what to say in a way I would not upset someone, me is not very tactful.
I don’t like divisions, I believe strength is in togetherness. Total – did you discuss the new ideas you have with Rasp & Peaches? Could they not adopt them here?
I think Jack will be our future captain.
Or perhaps we could follow the spuds lead and make Theo captain. 🙂 (TMHT’s suggestion?).
Morning evonne – you and I can have a chat about this over a coffee 🙂
Chas – I think Koscielny will get the band
Chas – I think you’re right and Jack will be our future captain.
Koscielny poses the same problem for AW as TV does surely – if we have a rotational back three then none of them are sure-starters.
I think it will be Jenks or TPIG. The Corporal is an Arsenal nut and steeped in our history. Not sure how good a communicator he is, which is where TPIG excels.
Sorry I missed yor excellent post GN5 and I more or less agree with most of it.
TA, best of luck, I have left a comment “awaiting moderation”.(bloody cheek)
The armband is a poison chalice these days. If jack regains his form not only is he a future Arsenal captain but also a future England captain (providing City or Chelsea or United don’t buy him.)
Oooooh evonne won’t like the idea of TPIG in captain but I’m sure he’d love it 🙂
That’s brilliant, Raddy, 🙂
Oddly enough, I have travelled far and wide, and when doing the touristy thing, I can see huge differences between Tour Guides.
All of them have been knowledgeable, as I am sure you will be, but certain types have stood out. Namely those who combine a bit of showmanship, chutzpah, humour and see themselves as entertaining their audiences as well as informing and enlightening them.
When I was in Fiji I visited a small village, and their ‘tour guide’ was also the village chief. He singled me out for special attention and made comments about his ancestors would have eaten people like me, all the while smacking his lips, rubbing his belly and saying ‘yum’.
I figured he was joking but when he offered to marry me off to his daughter, provided I paid him in goats I was not so sure!! 🙂
Anyway, Raddy, I wish you success. 🙂
Morning all…….
…. New post …..
Agree with Bi Al. The german’s lack of pace could be a problem in a one on one situation. If he sticks out a foot even thouh outside the box,the ref might point to the spot.The gunners have won just one game with Mike Dean in charge.
I have nevre trusted these guys.When Chelsea played QPR,some of the latter players shd have seen red. In the Everton Newcastle game.two legitimate goals were disallowed.As for Arsenal,I am keeping my fingers crossed. MC have not been beaten at home for a long time.The law of averages is due to come and hopefully the gunners will win,barring some divine intervention by the ref.
Love the post GunnerN5