My view on Vela's and Nasri's situation.

I have been away from here for more than a year, but, i've been busy, a lot of transfer talk these days, huh? Well, I do not believe anything untill I see it on arsenal.com, on this post, I will talk about Carlos Vela, and Samir Nasri.

Both of them have been linked out of Arsenal for most of the summer. However, it seems that both of them will stay, as reports indicate. I'm going to talk about what I think of their situation and stuff like that, so please read and enjoy *expect some grammar mistakes*.

Carlos Vela

The mexican striker, Carlos Vela signed for Arsenal in November 2005 on a five-year deal for a £125k fee that will rise to £550k if he plays 50 first-team games, after long loan spells in Spain, On 22 May 2008, Vela was granted a work permit that allowed him to play in England.

He has played 61 games so far, scoring 11 goals, and making 6 assists, someone may think that his assists are poor, but they aren't taking in count that he starts games a substitutes almost always.

I've read a lot of talk on the mexican press about him, saying that he's leaving, then saying that he isn't and viceversa, but the agent has come out and said that Arsenal want him to stay and he will do so, he admitted that he's had about 8 conversations with the Gunners, and Arsene want him to stay.

However, I've read a lot of stuff on my Twitter Timeline about him,  and most of the comments I've read are negative. Carlos Vela, who's just 21 years old is a great talent, you've seen him playing. He has not had a decent and proper chance to show up.

Some may think that if he didn't even make it at West Brom, a mid-table team, he would never have a chance at Arsenal, but let me explain why he didn't have any chance at West Brom, do you remember Di Matteo? Ok, that guy was the one who wanted him there, but then he got sacked, and Roy Hodgson took the charge, it was very notable that he did not want him there, and if you don't want someone on your team he won't play at all, that's what happened to Vela, and that's what has happened to players like Van der Vaart, it does not necessarily mean that they're not good players!

I'm glad that Wenger will finally give his well deserved chance next season, he really deserves it, top talent. His pace is quite good, and he's lethal when he's on the box, who knows? Maybe he could be our Hernandez.

Just a reminder:

Samir Nasri

Ahead of UEFA Euro 2008, both Nasri's agent and Wenger admitted that offers were made for the player and that a move to the English club was imminent. The deal was ultimately concluded following the competition on 11 July 2008 with Nasri agreeing to a four-year contract. The transfer fee was undisclosed, but has been purported to be in the region of £12 million. Upon arriving to the club, Nasri admitted that Wenger was one of the primary reasons for him joining the club stating "The fact that Arsène Wenger gives great opportunities to young players is very important for me. Arsène has a great reputation and he is one of the best managers in the world".

Nasri had a great first half of the last season, scoring great goal, and in general playing great, great football.

Believe it or not! Nasri has kissed the Arsenal badge.

I find Nasri's situation interesting, first, I was one of the lot, thinking he was greedy and didn't have feelings for Arsenal, but then thinking it twice and wisely I changed my mind, Samir really loves the club, and he wants the best for it.

Just see, he is waiting for Arsene to buy new players to improve the squad for him to sign the contract, that's exactly what we needed, some pressure for Arsene to spend, and someone, who we thought that didn't have feelings for the club has given him that. If he didn't love the club he wouldn't have kissed the badge, and he would just have left without asking for improvements, right?

For me, they both will stay, we need them, they need us, as simple as that. Vela has a bright future, and Nasri is a good player, they'll help arsenal to be greater.

Ricky Alvarez; Arsenal's first signing?

When I came back from school, I logged into Twitter, and read so many tweets about Ricky Alvarez, I decided to do a research.

I reckon the rumor started with a tweet from @90minutosFox which said:

"Ricky Alvarez has signed a pre contract with Arsene Wenger and Arsenal"

They also reported that on a recognized Football TV show in Argentina.

People from Argentina seems gutted, I read in a forum that. Some of them said:

"A great player is leaving Argentina"

"This guy plays so good"

...And other things like that. But who's he? He's a 23 year old left footed argentinian midfielder who plays at Velez Sarsfield. If he signs, he won't havea any problem with the work permit, as he has an italian passport. A journo has said that the offer might be around 20 millon euros. Pretty much, huh? But I don't think so, if we sign him we'll buy him for lot less than that. Some sites also reporting that we'll sign him in the end of the Argentinian League, when his contract finishes. He can play as an attacking midfielder and as a forward.

Ricky Alvarez

His side, Velez are the ones who are topping the Argentinian League. Zidane is his favourite player.

In my opinion, we may sign him, there's a huge possibility, like I tweeted some day, if you read that Arsenal are being linked to a relatively unknown player you can think that we'll sign him, I have never heard of him before, and I could not find many things about him on the Internet, but by watching some videos you can tell that he's good, fast, and actually knows how to shoot.

Time to find a new scapegoat.

Most of you have read that Denilson has said that he wants to leave, but who wouldn't want to leave after receiving the hate he has received? Let's start by posting what he said:

He said: "This has been the worst season of my life and I am so upset, so frustrated.

"I am a winner and I came here to win trophies but I've been here for five years and won nothing.

"A footballer's career is over very quickly so it is time for me to move on.

"This is not a sudden decision. I made up my mind eight months ago.

"I was fed up of coming home and feeling down.

"But I haven't said anything until now because I did not want to disrupt the team during the season. And I haven't caused a big scene.

"I've simply been to see Arsene Wenger and told him how I felt and he's agreed to let me go.

"I know some people will think I am crazy. They are right. It is a great club with a great organisation, a great manager and so many talented players.

"Yes, I make a good living at Arsenal but other things in life are important.

"I need a fresh challenge and although I know I'm taking a big gamble I am ready to take that risk."

Denilson, 23, added: "I can't see myself returning in a Chelsea shirt, or Liverpool or Manchester City - and definitely not Tottenham. I think my future will be in Spain or Italy."

His parting message to Arsenal is powerful and poignant. "It's great to play beautiful football but sometimes to be a winner you have to play ugly if you want to succeed."

He's been influenced by the fans to say that, I mean most of the fans hate him. And think that he's the reason why we didn't win silverware this season, seriously how many games has he played this season? Only 16 games a starter, and 12 as a substitute, but fans hate him. Why? They generalize on his performances, let's say that he has 1 bad game for every 5 good games, but people only take an interest on the bad things. Specially when he's our preferred scapegoat.

I don't think that those quotes were said by Denilson, he's a humble guy. Did you know that his mother died when he was 10? Did you know that he had to fight against poverty, and he made it? He's admirable. But people hate him because he SOMETIMES pass the ball backwards, a player like Xavi does that as well, and people classify him as the best midfielder in the world, but according to gooners Denilson is the worst.

Denilson was one of our bests players in the 08/09 season he even touched the ball more times than any other premier league player. Quite solid for a 20 year old guy. In the next season he was solid, again scoring a few top goals. He, again was solid.

But this season according to some fans he has not performed properly, and they hate him because of that. If so, you can't generalize on someone's career just for ONE SINGLE SEASON. People forget about his age if he's bad he can surely get better and he's only 23 years old. And seriously what has he done bad? I have not seen nothing bad on his performances, I remember the game against Sunderland in the Stadium of the light, he played well, but people criticized him because he shot in the last minute, I can remember it clearly, it's just disgraceful. He passes the ball backwards many times, and what's the problem?! He also creates some chances. And, without mentioning that Wenger plays him as a defensive midfielder and he's more of a central midfielder.

Last game against Villa, it all was disgraceful. They booed Denilson when he started to warm up, and seriously what do you gain by HATING a player of your own team? Nothing.

In summary, I want Denilson to leave, because of the fans. He doesn't deserve that hate. No-one deserves it, and specially a humble guy like him. Recently he donated 800 basic needs grocery packages to Sao Paulo, it's admirable. And, now that he will leave, what will be the problem? I have a feeling that those who hated Denilson (more than 80% of the gooners) will regret it, someday. So, again, who will be our scapegoat now? It seems that finding one is the best way to solve a problem at the Arsenal.

Good luck, Denilson. You deserve to play every week, and hopefully you won't receive the hate you've received this season. All the best.

Arsenal vs Aston Villa match review

By the guy who manages Get Theo On on Twitter, make sure to give him a follow. He's a top guy!

Arsenal started with Vermaelen and Squillaci, with Gibbs in left back, some fans were hoping they pull off a good display, however they did not live up to expectations, well Vermalaen did but Squillaci was at fault for the first goal.

The return of the Verminator

You could tell Squillaci was not a regular starter as he did not keep up with the offside line and for this reason Bent was through on goal to put Aston Villa up front just after 10 minutes of play. Although Squillaci could have done better, it was a great ball by Walker who chipped the ball over to Darren Bent, who was not going to miss from that range!

Arsenal looked nervous, as if they had nothing to play for. Runs from Gibbs gave a lot of space for Downing, which makes me wonder, if Clichy does leave, or gets injured, is Arsenal DOOMED?!

The second goal came just 4 minutes later, Vermaelen’s slip gave Young the time he needed to calmly put Bent through on goal, and we all know what Bent can do in those situations… 2-0 to Villa!

It is hard to blame someone for the second goal, but I believe Squillaci should have been marking Bent rather than wondering where he is, if Gibbs was at the right place, there would have been no rush for TV5 and maybe he would have not slipped, but lets not blame defenders as we have done enough of that all season! And the past 5 seasons! Makes you wonder, will Wenger concentrate on strengthening the squad?!

Bent celebrating one of his goals.

Again Arsenal found themselves behind at home, and once again no signs of Arshavin or Theo on the wings, maybe a wrong formation? Not according to Wenger. So Arsenal are playing their football as usual, no plan B. Patiently playing as usual, it all leads to a chance, Ramsey just about to pull the trigger and put Arsenal back in the game BUT the defender has other ideas! A CLEAR penalty, and as you could all guess, the referee does not agree! Richard Dunne and the referee must have been the only ones who thought that was a fair challenge! Maybe just the ref!

The tempo was gradually building, Wilshere with a great ball puts RVP through and the best striker in EPL does everything but Aston Villa is saved by the post. Next was TV5 but his header from the corner just went over. Unlucky!

Half time, Wenger takes off Squillaci for Chamakh, most tactical change I’ve seen from Wenger this season, he clearly wanted the win, and he knew it was mission impossible with Squillaci on the pitch and one striker.

The second half was all Arsenal, no sign of Aston Villa, but once again Arsenal do everything but shoot! And when they do shoot it’s from 5 yards straight at the goalkeeper. This has been a down side to Arsenal’s season and things didn’t look like getting any better.

Arsenal was attacking and Aston Villa defending, sometimes I wonder why Arsenal don’t start the game like this, sometimes I wonder why Arsenal don’t start with two strikers, maybe if Wenger had more options, better strikers…. something to look forward to for next season.

Arsenal did have chances to get back into the game, RVP pulled it back for Gibbs who for some reason spends more time in Aston Villas half than his own, but again a chance wasted. Benzema would have scored that; in fact even Bent would have scored that, could that be something going through Wenger’s head?

Finally Arsenal was back in the game when Chamakh scored a brilliant goal, at a brilliant time….. oh wait…. The ref was there, that means no goal, I still don’t understand why that wasn’t a goal, maybe the ref would explain himself, or maybe not!

Almost 45 minutes of attack from Arsenal seemed like no end product, but RVP had to show what a world class striker he is, and as you could guess, he scored, again! The form he has been since coming back from injury, you would have thought Arsenal would lift all four trophies this season but unfortunately for Arsenal we don’t have more RVPs in the squad, this brings up the debate, do we NEED another world class striker?

One last chance, free-kick won by RVP, 25-30 yards out, TV looked like the right man to get the equaliser, but free-kick hit the wall, and that was it. Another poor defeat at a bad time, which could mean Arsenal finish 4^th, behind City.

This game sums up our season for me, play great football, attack for 45 mins, more possession, lots of chances… but not the result!

For me Wenger is a great manager, and if anyone is to fix this team, it is Wenger, the man who LOVES the club, the man who will eventually make MORE history. Saying this, I do hope he spends in the summer, because we are not far off, the squad lacks depth, some may say it lacks leaders and spirit, I’m sure Wenger knows what the squad lacks. For me we need a strong right footed defender to partner TV. Kos and JD seems a perfect backup and cup player and they will gain more experience with rotation.

We definitely need backup for Clichy, or maybe a new left back if Clichy leaves?

Also I believe a TOP striker to partner RVP, to finish all these chances we create, one who scores 20-30 goals a season, one who could win games and works hard for the team. Benzema?  

If wenger does get rid of some players, he will have more than enough money to strengthen the squad, and he has already mentioned he has money to spend, maybe we will see a busy summer?

One thing for sure, we need a plan B just like most teams in EPL, I believe Chamakh could be part of the Plan B, he was a great sub today, if his goal counted it could have easily been a win for Arsenal, and he has proved he can score and be part of a winning team when RVP was injured.

Thanks for reading.

Tomas Rosicky's Arsenal's career review.

Arsenal signed the Czech Republic international, Tomas Rosicky in May 2006 for an undisclosed fee, believed to be in the region of £7 million. The midfielder was brought in after Robert Pires left the club at the end of his contract.

In his first season at Arsenal, Tomas Rosicky scored 7 times and assisted 4 times, making 32 appearences, 26 of them as a starter, but stats may lie, he had a good first season at Ashburton Grove. Everyone thought we had bought the perfect replacement for the legend, Robert Pires. He showed some great dribbling and he scored some classy goals.



Then in the next season, 07/08, we thought Rosicky was going to be the special one, that player that would pass, dribble and score, he scored the same quantity of goals as in the season 06/07, 7 goals but in less matches, 25 matches, and 15 of them as a starter, but there was something that has marked Rosicky's career since then, Rosicky got injured in the game against Newcastle United in the FA Cup, and we all thought that it was a 'small injury' that he'd come back 'next week'and then next one, and next one, and the thing is that he missed the rest of that season. Having played only 1/2 of that season and scoring 7 goals is quite impressing.

In the next season he could not play at all, due to his hamstring injury. That season has had some influence in Rosicky's career.

In the season 09/10, I, specially thought that our Rosicky had come back, he scored a goal in his 'debut' in the loss against Manchester City at Eastlands. On 4 January 2010, Rosický signed a new two-and-a-half-year deal with Arsenal stating, “"It's felt like home since I arrived here four years ago and I believe we're on the verge of achieving something special together.” Manager of Arsenal, Arsene Wenger commented on the new deal with Rosický saying, "I have spoken many times of Tomas' class and contribution, not only on the pitch but off it as well, and I very much feel that this new contract reflects that.”  

Rosický scored a 93rd minute equalizer in a 2–2 draw at The Emirates Stadium against Everton to give Arsenal a crucial point. His third goal of the season came against Bolton Wanderers in a 4–2 victory after Arsenal had gone down 2–0 with Rosicky beginning the Gunners’ comeback by scoring the first Arsenal goal right before half time.

Rosicky scoring against Bolton at the Emirates.

In a later game against Liverpool, Rosický provided a cross for team mate Abou Diaby which he converted to give Arsenal a 1–0 victory at the Emirates on 10 February 2010. Rosický again provided an assist against FC Porto in the Champions League, as he headed back a corner kick from the far post into the danger area, setting up Sol Campbell to fetch a valuable away goal for Arsenal at the Estádio do Dragão.

He made 33 appearances, 20 of them as a starter, and he scored three goals and assisted five. He dropped his form a little bit from the past seasons before his injury, and we all could notice that.

Now, it's time to arrive to the present from our time machine.

In the 10/11 season Rosicky has made 36 appearances, 25 of them as a starter, he has only scored one goal, and it was against a league 1 side, named Leyton Orient. He has assisted 6 times. That goal against Leyton Orient was  his first goal in 13 months.

In summary, I think that Rosicky's time to leave has arrived, he has completely lost his form. He has only been the shadow of what he was three or four years ago, he could not recover from that injury.

Rosicky has lost an element of dynamism since his long-term injury and lacks the penetrative power and devastating shooting ability that he used to possess. He has a tendency to drift out of games.

I do rate Rosicky, but the best thing now for him and Arsenal is to move on, it would give the youngsters more opportunities for the inmediate future.

I wish him all the best.

The Benzema to Arsenal rumor.

Hmm how to start this post? Well, I was away when this rumor started, it all started with a tweet from @RMADRIDFC which says:

What's going on?

 "It's not a rumor anymore, it's a formal thing... Wenger (Arsenal) insists that he wants Benzema.. Arsenal have made a 25 million euros bid for the frenchman!"

I don't know wether that account is a reliable source or not, but having almost 8000 followers, it MAY be a reliable source. I've been looking for news on that rumor on webpages such as As and Marca, I've only found one in RTVE.es, and again I don't know if that's a reliable source or not, but it MAY be.

And it says:

'Arsenal want to have Karim Benzema as a reinforcement for next season, they have made a 25 million euros bid for him and it might be accepted by Real Madrid'

'The Frenchman's ausence in La Copa del Rey final and in the UCL semifinal, makes you think that Mourinho doesn't want him at Real Madrid next season, and Arsenal have shown interes in the player's services'

Benzema in his presentation for Real Madrid

Benzema signed for Real Madrid in July first, 2009. Coming from OL, and he signed a 6-year contract. But, since Mourinho arrived to Real Madrid, he hasn't had much playing time as he wants to have, so the player is unhappy.

Benzema has scored 23 goals in 45 matches this season, he's a real threat.

Let me tell you, if you forgot it, that we've been linked to him since 2009. A rumor that persists for that time might come true, signing Chamakh is an example.

We were interested on him in 2009 before Real Madrid bought him, according to a rumor, we were going to offer 35 million euros on that time.

Then, in January, 2011, Real Madrid were ready to offer him to Arsenal in exchange of the French left-back Gael Clichy.

And now, this rumor. With Kroenke ready to spend, it could come true this time.

Arsene Wenger is certainly a fan of him, and he might fit well with so many french players we have, also his signing would give us the long-awaited change of formation, as we would play with two strikers, him and Robin Van Persie.

If we sign him my line up for next season would be like this (in my opinion):

Sczszesny

Sagna-Mertesacker-Vermaelen-Clichy

Walcott-Fabregas (Song)-Wilshere-Nasri

RVP-Benzema

In red are my projected signings for next season, I'm considering that Cesc might leave so that's why I wrote Song there between parentheses.

Why would I like Mertesacker? He's so good in the air, and that's what we certainly lack.

Bring on the next season!

Thoughts of this season and improvements for the next one.

I don't think that our team is rubbish, that's my opinion, and you must respect it. But well, I'm not here to say my human rights. I'm going to talk about what needs to be improved for next season, and my thoughts of this one.


Introducing this, let me say that I don't hate Bendtner, Denilson or Squillaci. They're good players. And the thing is that if one of them have a bad game people overreact or generalize their performances. They only see the bad things about those players. But, let me tell you that we are all humans and we commit mistakes. A bad game doesn't make you a bad player. You can hate me if you want.


Now coming into topic let's start by saying what I think about every department in the Arsenal.


1. We should sell Almunia and don't buy a GK, we have enough, teach Sczszesny how to control his temper and how to kick the ball and it's alright. Fabianski made a huge improvement this season, but then unluckily he got injured, I feel sorry for him.

Koscielny and Squillaci

2. On the defense department, I think that our defense has been quite good, just look at how many goals we've conceded. And by only having practically 3 CBs (vermaelen injury) and only ONE of them had premier league experience, it's quite good. People hate squillaci and I don't really know why, he was accustomed to La liga style of play and sometimes it takes longer for people to adapt to a completely different league. We should buy one or two defenders though, we can't rely on 4 defenders. Koscielny adapted very quickly though and he was a rock.

Denilson has not been given many chances this season

3. Time for the midfielder department, Jack Wilshere and Alex Song have emerged brilliantly this season, Wilshere was one of the players that showed some spirit in the lasts games, he just needs to control his temper, he loses it very easily, Fabregas didn't have a good season, injuries were constant for him and that's why he didn't perform well in some matches. I do think that Rosicky has nothing more to give to Arsenal. Ramsey will emerge brilliantly next season, and finally, Denilson, the most underrated player here, yes I just said that, I might get some haters for saying that, but I don't care that's MY opinion, Denilson is a good player, and can hold the ball very good, you'd be surprised by the number of times he really loses the ball, he doesn't lose it as much as you think. Just a stat I would like to share with you: on the season 08/09 Denilson was the one who touched the ball more times than any other premier league player.


4. On the attacking line, Chamakh was certainly rocking in the first half of the season, you may call me superstitious, but after FIFA prohibited the snoods Chamakh and Nasri really dropped their form. Bendtner is being played out of position and Wenger should notice that! Van Persie only played 1/2 of the league and did it brilliantly, what a player. I read a stat which said that if Van Persie had played all the league he would have had similar amount of goals as Cristiano or Messi.


Now what needs to be improved:

1) Wenger should play some players in their natural positions, for example Bendtner, Denilson, Nasri and others are played out of position, Bendtner is a lethal Centre forward, NOT a winger. Denilson is NOT a holding midfielder, he is more of an attacking player, and finally, Nasri, is not a winger, play him in the middle, and you'll see why he's called the New Zidane.


2) I might not have a good opinion on this one, because I don't live in England, but I've read that our tickets prices are more expensive now, Arsenal should not do that. They have the best fans in the league, and they haven't won anything in 6 years, so arsenal should not do it.


3) The main issue this season has been on the SHOOTING department, we don't shoot, and it costs us a lot to get a shot on target, we've hit the post more times than any other Premier League club, I mean how can you hit the post and not hit the net which is 10 times bigger?! Bad luck.


4) Determination. Arsenal sometimes seem like they don't want to win matches, they should fix that up. And players should show some spirit, I mean, come on, they're getting paid for playing football, what they love and for such a great team like Arsenal, they should/must show winning spirit.


5) I don't think we need to sign many players, just a defender and a holding midfielder. Just keep the players we already have.


6) Some players need to control their tempers, for example Sczszesny, Diaby or Wilshere.


Positives from this season:


1. We showed some great spirit against great teams such as Barca, Manchester United and Chelsea.


2. Jack Wilshere was named PFA young player of the year, and Samir Nasri was the runner-up for the PFA player of the year.

Jack Wilshere showing his award

3. We used a new formation and it went well for most of the season.


4. Having spent less than 20 millions pounds, it was a good season, we were 2nd for most of it and screw it over in the lasts games.


And to finish this post, I want to ask you a question, why do gooners fight?! I've seen so many proposed fights on twitter so lately. I've even had some discussions with some gooners, and seriously you want that? We are the arsenal, we are a family, in those times I just stay quiet, I won't ever fight with a gooner.


I'm just a gooner from abroad and that was my opinion.

Arsenal a season of controversy.

This video may be a perfect evidence why I don't think this season has been a failure, and why we should continue having faith on this team. I'd recommend you to watch it, it shows how many points we've lost thanks to referees decision, and seriously you'll be shocked. I'm not going to give many details because the video explains all for itself, I watched it thanks to AzizAlFarhoud, if you are on Twitter, you should seriously give him a follow. Here's the video, enjoy.

Rugby vs Football, match preview.

Hey there, sorry for not writing a match report for the ManUtd game last Sunday, but I went to the beach and I've been very busy this week, anyways, in brief it was a great win, great team spirit and a great display by Ramsey who scored the only goal and gave us the vital three points, and not only that, it gave us some hope for the title.

Nasty.

Now it's Ramsey's time to come back to the Britannia Stadium after THAT tackle by that dirty player Ryan Shawcross. It'll be a very important game for Ramsey but he'll handle the pressure.

Team News.

Samir Nasri, Cesc Fabregas and Abou Diaby are all ruled out, again I haven't heard nothing about Denilson and Rosicky, it's a shame, both are good players, hate me if you want, but that's my opinion. Johan Djourou and Clichy have some fitness problems but I think they'll be fit.

This game may also mark the long awaited return of the VERMINATOR. He hasn't played since August and his injury has been like the one Rosicky had a few years back, you know, he was expected to come back a week after he got injured, and now he's been 8 months out. Same old story.

People have been talking about that this Cesc's 'injury' is a conspiration, but seriously, why would people think that? It makes me laugh, we are the Arsenal we are accostumed to injuries, don't start making crappy rumors.

Predicted Arsenal Line up.

Sczszesny

Sagna - Djourou (Vermaelen) - Koscielny -  Clichy (Gibbs)

Ramsey - Song - Wilshere

Walcott - Van Persie - Arshavin

It's practically the same line up as the game against ManUtd. I don't think we'd risk Vermaelen against that rugby club specially since he's just coming back, Gibbs may play on the left if Clichy fails to recover.

It's the same midfield that owned ManUtd on Sunday, so using that logic we would not have any problems in that department, since we are playing against nothing but a shit club.

In the forward line it'd almost be the same as the ManUtd game, the only who's missing is Nasri, but Arshavin will cope there with his super stats.

Match facts.

• In two previous appearances against the Potters combined, Robin van Persie scored twice and was sent off once.

• 

  Robin Van Persie has been impressive this year

  Stoke have won four of their last five home league meetings with the Gunners, and also knocked Arsene Wenger’s side out of the FA Cup at the Britannia Stadium last season.
• Kenwyne Jones has fired in 39 headed shots in the Premier League this season, seven more than any other player.
• Arsenal have taken more points away from home (30) than any other team this season.
• Arsenal have netted the most goals in the opening 15 minutes of Premier League games this season (15) whilst the Potters have scored the fewest (one).
• Robin van Persie has attempted more shots per game (3.27) than any other regular player in the top flight this season.
• The Gunners possess the best shooting accuracy in the Premier League, hitting the target with 48.6% of their shots.
• The Potters have scored a greater proportion of their goals from set pieces than any other side (48.8%) whilst Arsenal have scored relatively less than any other team (19.1%).
• Stoke have played 71.3% of their passes in, or into, the opposition half in matches this season; a Premier League high.
• Arsenal have the best passing accuracy in the opposition half in the Premier League this season (79.8%), while Stoke have the worst (55.7%).

All those match facts are courtesy of Yahoo! Eurosport.

Wenger quotes.

“Thomas Vermaelen is available and could be in the squad. Aaron Ramsey is likely to get another chance, I can even say that he will play.”

“Aaron is a quiet but strong character and I think there is no better maturing system than what happened to him – blocked at 18 suddenly when you are just flying. Being knocked down and having to wait for a year, not knowing what really will happen.”

“He is certainly mentally stronger now. After what happened to him you have to be strong." referring to Ramsey.

"No matter what happens I have to give him at least four weeks' holiday. The [Under-21] tournament finishes at the end of June so he won't come back until the end of July. That means he will not be ready to play at the start of August or maybe at the beginning of September." referring to Wilshere.

Wenger also said that Ramsey won't have the same problems as Eduardo.

Predicted score.

Bendtner scoring on last year's match against Stoke.

I'd seriously love a 5-0 trashing in Arsenal's favour, specially after reading some comments made by some Stoke fans on a Stoke City forum, and seriously how disrespectful they are! Someone said that Ramsey is bitter, others said worse things. I'm not going to post those things. 

Words to describe a Stoke City fan: Cunt, idiot, stupid, twat, dickhead and last but certainly not least CAVEMAN.

Now, being realistic I can see a 3-1 in Arsenal's favour just as the other time, and I can see Van Persie scoring a brace and I'd seriously love a Ramsey goal in revenge.

We have got to win this game if we want to still aim to win the Premier League, it's difficult, but it isn't impossible.

PS: I didn't post any Stoke team news, because they're crap and we all know who will start for them, yes 11 cavemen.

Come on you gunners.

Wenger must open his eyes and adress Arsenal's problems

As another trophy-less season comes to an end, time has come to question what went wrong? Where did Arsenal fall, and what continues to stop them from winning silverware?

It was an eventful, and in many ways frustrating campaign for the Gunners which I believe 'ended' after the heartbreaking defeat in the Carling Cup final in late February.

So much exists that is right about the club from board to ground to youthful talent that it is little surprising that those who love the club, who feel they are close to a winning formula, become frustrated by the inhibiting wrongs in Wenger's psyche. 

The team is undoubtedly full of talent but there are some areas that must be addressed. Firstly, one needs to question the man in charge, Arsene Wenger. 

Criticism can definitely be heard around the Emirates. Some (a minority) impatient supporters have been sending text messages to each other, reworking the trusty "In 

Arsene We Trust" match-day banner. "In Arsene We Rust" reads the new version. Mettle-work is required. 

Wenger played a huge part in Arsenal's fortunes this season, and may be correctly questioned for not strengthening significantly in January. Arsene stubbornly refused to make any major signings, and this may have cost the Gunners in what the manager described as 'an easy run-in'.  Who knows what some extra strength, dominance and leadership in the heart of Arsenal's defence would have resulted in? Maybe the outcome of this season would have been positively different. 

Acknowledging the fact that key-player Thomas Vermaelen would be unavailable for the run-in, Wenger could have brought in another defender to bring in extra quality and cover. Yet he didn't. 

I personally like the look of Bolton's Gary Cahill.  The England international has had a sensational season at the back for Bolton and looks to be easily tempted with a move away to a top club. 

This would be a serious investment, with the defender valued at £20m but a commanding, dominant centre-half is badly needed and he has shown all signs of being the specific answer. There has also been talk over a possible move for Fulham's American international Brede Hangeland  who I also rate.

Arsenal have conceded 20 goals from set plays this season, with only Blackpool, Sunderland, Aston Villa and West Brom conceding more. A statistic Arsene Wenger won't be proud of. 

I strongly believe that upon the arrival of a top defender, that embarrassing statistic  would decrease greatly. Cahill or Hangeland would certainly add the much-needed steel to the Gunners vulnerable and shaky defence.

Regarding the goalkeeping situation, I am a great fan of Szczesny and believe he is remarkable talent and can certainly be sure of a promising future. 

I love Wojciech, and I definitely think he is good enough to stand between the posts despite his young age. The only worry I have is his lack of experience which could cost us (and probably has at times this season). Apart from that, I see no reason to splash out on a goalkeeper. 

There are other positions which must be prioritised before the one of Szczesny's.

Anyway, back to the manager. Managers set the tone for their team. By always blaming others, whether referees, linesmen or oppenents, Wenger grants his players a get-out, a chance to shirk responsibility. So they carry on, refusing to accept personal liability, not standing up for the team when leaders are craved. 

Arsenal have rarely been so short of leaders. Captain Cesc Fabregas is a wonderful footballer, but he is no Nemanja Vidic (Manchester United's captain). That is why Wenger must open his eyes and appreciate the urgency of drafting in a tough competitor like Scott Parker. No more butterflies, please. Just warriors. 

Arsenal need more like Jack Wilshere, who never goes missing on the pitch, even off the pitch when the club want somebody to represent them for a community, charity or corporate function. Only a teenager but a captain in waiting, Wilshere takes responsibility.  

This season, Arsenal too often failed to kill off games, something caused by sloppiness, inexperience, naivety and that lack of leadership/responsibility. The chief example of this occurred in the 4-4 draw away to Newcastle in February. Arsenal went into half-time with a comfortable 4-goal lead, yet still failed to see off the game and return home with the vital 3 points. Costly and wasteful. 

Oppositely, when rivals Manchester United are in the driving seat, they always seem to kill off the game so brilliantly (especially at home).  This is probably one of the main reason why United are expectant to bring the title back to Old Trafford next month.

Home games versus Tottenham and Liverpool were also games Arsenal dropped points  when leading, as was the recent 3-3 draw at White Hart Lane. This is something that must be adressed. No matter how talented these youngsters are, they must learn to kill off games when leading by a comfortable margin.

I also always say that winning the title doesn't depend on results in October/November, rather on  picking up points from the tough and crucial games in March/April. No matter how spectacular a team's performances are in November, winning games a small, yet clinical 1-0 in March are the one's that win the league.

Another point, regards various journalists slating this Arsenal team, claiming that they don't posses a winning mentality. This is a remark I, unfortunately, cannot argue with. If the team were to win that cup final against Birmingham this probably wouldn't be the case. 

Nobody would be going-on about the absence of that 'winning mentality'.

Anyhow, Wenger must strengthen and address the spoken areas and might have to reluctantly pull out his check-book. If Wenger is to stubbornly refuse once again on strengthening, and insist his system is correct and not change his philosophy, then it must be seriously considered whether or not his future still lies at the Emirates. 

Arsenal supporters correctly respect Arsene for what he has done and his rich history at the club but maybe he is not the right man for the job at the current moment. 

Arsene must change and adress what needs to worked on, because if he doesn't, this massively important summer may be his last.

Follow me on Twitter @SamWhitefield40



Just for the pride.

This game could have been very important for our title hopes if we had won all those matches we drew and the last one we lost, but, anyways, let's play for our pride, give it all, and try to win those cheaters. Just for the pride.

Team news

Arsenal

Even though Thomas Vermaelen could play 90 mins on the reserve match a few days ago, I don't think he'd be involved. He needs to be match-fit to play again, and he isn't. Only two players have been ruled out for this match, Fabianski and Diaby. Almost a complete squad then.

Manchester United

Chris Smalling is expected to feature as it seems unlikely that Ferguson would risk Ferdinand by playing him three times in a week. Michael Carrick and Dimitar Berbatov are expected to feature as well.

Predicted line up.

I would love this formation:

Sczszesny
Sagna-Djourou-Koscielny-Clichy
Walcott-Wilshere-Song-Nasri
Fabregas
Van Persie

4-4-1-1. I'd love it, it would work perfectly, but I know it'll be the same 4-2-3-1.


Sczszesny
Sagna-Djourou-Koscielny-Clichy
Song-Wilshere
Walcott-Fabregas-Nasri
Van Persie


It's still not bad. In  the end it all depends on the players wanting to win it or not.
If they want to win it, it'd be an epic performance, if they don't it'd be another crap match for Arsenal, and that bad streak would continue.

Cesc Fabregas at Bolton.

Recent form


Arsenal last five league matches


Arsenal 0-0 Blackburn
Blackpool 1-3 Arsenal
Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool
Tottenham 3-3 Arsenal
Bolton 2-1 Arsenal


Manchester United last five league matches


Manchester United 1-0 Bolton

West Ham 2-4 Manchester United
Manchester United 2-0 Fulham
Newcastle 0-0 Manchester United
Manchester United 1-0 Everton


Painful.




Match facts

• Wayne Rooney has scored in three of his last four matches against the Gunners.
• Arsenal have won only one of their last seven league games – drawing five in total.
• Manchester Unted have kept clean sheets in their last three games.
• Last Arsenal win against Manchester United in any competition was on season 08/09, Nasri scored both goals at the Emirates.
• Arsenal have drawn their last three games at the Emirates, scoring only one goal - and that from the penalty spot.

What has happened outside the pitch recently.

Wenger's frustration

Arsene Wenger said he was the guilty for our 'failure' but I don't agree. The players are. After all the players are the ones who play, am I right? Wenger only gives them instructions and belief, I can't believe the fact that some people really want him out. He loves Arsenal, just see his reaction after our recent matches performances.


On the Manchester United side, Darron Gibson joined Twitter a few days ago, and left the same day, why? Some Manchester United fans were sending him abuse, I wonder if they are really 'United'?!


 Score prediction

I must admit that this game is very difficult, everyone knows that. But taking in count that Arsenal are not competing for any trophy now, I do think we can win this match, we have no pressure.

This one is a must win though. Why? Chelsea are three points ahead of us, if they win against Tottenham and we lose tomorrow we'd be 6 points behind them and we'd be relegated to third place, or in the worst scenarios to fourth. Give your best.

Arsenal players should give their best to win it for the fans, who have suffered a lot since February, we deserve four wins in our lasts four matches, just for the pride.

So, I think the game will finish 2-1. Walcott and Van Persie to score for Arsenal.

Arsenal season summed up, part one.



THAT blatant penalty on Vela.

Some people have been questioning Arsenal this season, and I think that this is not such a big failure as most people think.



First, let's start with UEFA Champions League, Arsenal were awarded a relatively easy group to face, Shakhtar, Partizan Belgrade and Sporting Braga. We won our firsts 3 matches.

 6-0 against Braga at the Emirates, 5-1 against Shakhtar at our home and 3-1 against Partizan Belgrade at Belgrade.

Then at the second round of that stage we lost to Shakhtar, well deserved for them to be fair. Then lost against Sporting Braga that was undeserved, and the ref didn't give a blatant penalty on Vela just before the two Braga goals. Shame on refs. Thanks to those two blows we finished second. We won 3-1 again against Partizan at the Emirates.

To be fair we would have expected to lose against Shakhtar at their home, they are such a good team there. The game against Braga, the ref, again had something to say when denying a clear penalty to Arsenal just before the two Braga goals, but whatever that had already happened. We finished only three points behind Shakhtar and if the ref made the right decision against Braga we would have finished first thanks to goal difference.

In the last 16 round, we were unfavored, we had to face the best team in the world, Barcelona. But you know what they say you have to beat the best to be the best.

In the first game at the Emirates the spirit by the team was great, everyone was so proud of them. We started losing 1-0 and they deserved more to be honest. The second half was a concert like Arsenal, that's the way they have to play, first goal came from Van Persie, awesome pass by Clichy and then he converted from a ridicule angle. The game continued and just a couple of minutes after we scored again, what a nice goal that was. Cesc passing the ball through then Nasri got it, he crossed it and Arshavin converted brilliantly 2-1 for the Arsenal. Yeah we were going to nou camp with a minimal advantage.

Some interesting interviews were told, for example Guardiola saying that they reserve team was full of players like Jack Wilshere. That's funny as he was the one who owned the midfield in the first leg, and outplayed world cup winners, Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández.

Talking about the match at the Nou Camp, they outplayed us in the first half and Cesc was in fault in the first goal of the match. He was injured and wanted to continue.

'I could NOT hear'

The second half started much different than the first half was, arsenal even scored a goal -which was an own goal- but it does count. Then the ref wanted to have something to say, he sent off Van Persie because he couldn't hear the whistle while 80,000+ people were cheering and screaming. Unfair.

As Barcelona had men advantage they took over and won 3-1. 4-3 in the aggregate.

In the post match some pictures appeared, we could see a picture that showed us Van Persie being choked by Abidal, the ref didn't do anything. Poor refereeing cost us our Champions League season, why all these things happen to Arsenal?!

There was no failure in that. The players gave their all in that competition it was referees's fault, as simple as that.


Let's continue with the Carling Cup.

We started brilliantly that competition by winning 4-1 against Tottenham. Lansbury scored first, then Keane scored for Tottenham just before Half time, we went to extra time, and Nasri scored a brace and Arshavin completed the goal-full victory. Yeah we won against our shadow, and brilliantly, and at White Hart Lane.

In the next round we were told to face Newcastle United, at St James Park, difficult match to be honest. But we wen through with a 4-0 win. First goal came via an own goal, then Walcott scored a brace and to finish it Bendtner scored a wonder goal.

Then it was the time to face Wigan Athletic we won 2-0 in that match. It was a frustrating match as Arsenal didn't find their form and passing, but goals came, one from Bendtner and the other one from an own goal via Alcaraz.

We faced Ipswich Town in the semifinals first leg we lost 1-0, a goal by Priskin. Luck as Arsenal dominated the game but didn't convert.

The second leg at the Emirates was frustrating at the beginning but we knew that by scoring a goal other goals would come and that's exactly what happened. Bendtner scored an awesome goal, and then Koscielny from a header just a few minutes after the first goal and, then to finish it, our captain, Fabregas followed with a great goal. Yeah Arsenal were going to Wembley! FT score was 3-0 



The mistake that costed us the Carling Cup

The start of the final was frustrating as well, Birmingham started winning with a goal by Zigic after a corner, Arsenal need to work on set pieces. Everyone was sad, but then our dutchman, Van Persie scored, with an awesome half-volley . He seemed injured after that one and he was. Fabregas missed that match, the game continued and Foster was converting himself into a hero for Birmingham. He made vital saves to deny Nasri and others. Same arsenal luck, all the goalkeepers play their best matches against them. The game was finishing and everyone thought we were going to extra time, but what a disaster followed, Szczesny and Koscielny got confused and gifted Birmingham and Martins the winning goal, everything was over.



That one I must admit was a failure, because Arsenal were the real favorites to win that cup but didn't. That's the only failure, and it was due to an accident, those things happen and you can't blame them as you are a human and you also commit mistakes.

I'll be talking on the Premiership and FA cup on the next post.

[Posted with iBlogger from my iPod touch]