Official Arsenal FC Supporters Thread

[Mach III]

Not really.. In this case ~66million was spent already, over 5 years he would've cost 126 million

But how many goals would he have scored in those 5 years?

How many champions leagues would he have won?

And either him, or
"Viyya" would've been rolling in millions and millions of rands sitting on the bench :)

[nivek]

But how many goals would he have scored in those 5 years?

How many champions leagues would he have won?

And either him, or
"Viyya" would've been rolling in millions and millions of rands sitting on the bench :)

I dont know dude, how many league titles would arsenal have won if dennis bergkamp took mannatech anti-aging products?

[nivek]

Arsenal reserves v Chelsea reserves kicking off shortly

YoungGunsBlog Jamie Sanderson
CHELSEA: Walker, B Clifford, Pappoe, Bruma, Conteh, McEachran, Tore, C Clifford, Lalkovic, Sala.
ARSENAL: Shea; Hajrovic, Boateng, Miquel, Cruise; Aneke, Ozyakup, Meade; Deacon, Murphy, Freeman.

[Randhir]

But how many goals would he have scored in those 5 years?

How many champions leagues would he have won?


Obviously Barcelona didn't think he would've helped them to that many.

[Mach III]

Only player in Barcelona history to score in his first 4 consecutive matches.
Scored 7 in 7, was top scorer in the league.
Came back from Injury - As a substitute scored against Real Madrid
11 goals and 4 assists in Barcelona’s opening 15 matches..
Does that fit the characteristics of a flop?

[Mach III]

Obviously Barcelona didn't think he would've helped them to that many.

Obviously? It was a choice between him and Villa.. They chose Villa..
It doesn't make him a flop.

[RexxGrim]

Only player in Barcelona history to score in his first 4 consecutive matches.
Scored 7 in 7, was top scorer in the league.
Came back from Injury - As a substitute scored against Real Madrid
11 goals and 4 assists in Barcelona’s opening 15 matches..
Does that fit the characteristics of a flop?

Barcelona will have an expense of +-12mil in their income statement end of this year for a player that isn't even in Spain. That is the flop.

[MartyMarts]

Too much Ibra in this here Arsenal thread !!

[Mach III]

I dont know dude, how many league titles would arsenal have won if dennis bergkamp took mannatech anti-aging products?

And the point I am trying to make is we do not know..

Oh no..

Mannatech/Stemtech/Powerbalance = Bull Dust...

[SinghDude]

Too much Ibra in this here Arsenal thread !!

Should start a thread and vote if his transfer stock was a flop !

[Randhir]

Only player in Barcelona history to score in his first 4 consecutive matches.
Scored 7 in 7, was top scorer in the league.
Came back from Injury - As a substitute scored against Real Madrid
11 goals and 4 assists in Barcelona’s opening 15 matches..
Does that fit the characteristics of a flop?

What about the rest of the season?


Obviously? It was a choice between him and Villa.. They chose Villa..
It doesn't make him a flop.

It wasn't a choice, if they preferred, they could've used both. Obviously, they didn't want Ibra any more.

In any case, maybe you don't remember Ibra toward the latter half of the season. He started sulking again, stopped making an effort. My god, in one match Valdes covered more ground than Ibra. Valdes - the keeper.

[Mach III]

Barcelona will have an expense of +-12mil in their income statement end of this year for a player that isn't even in Spain. That is the flop.

Do you think 12million will heavily effect their finances?

In relation to Barcelona's finances 12million is peanuts..

[Randhir]

Do you think 12million will heavily effect their finances?

In relation to Barcelona's finances 12million is peanuts..

Barcelona are in debt.

[Mach III]

What about the rest of the season?



It wasn't a choice, if they preferred, they could've used both. Obviously, they didn't want Ibra any more.

In any case, maybe you don't remember Ibra toward the latter half of the season. He started sulking again, stopped making an effort. My god, in one match Valdes covered more ground than Ibra. Valdes - the keeper.

He was injured for a while ''iirc''.. But that warrants enough to not be a flop.

Uhm, they would've had to pay millions in wasted wages if they kept both, but lets widen up this whole thing.

Choice A: Keep Ibra.

Choice B: Buy Villa.

Choice C: Buy Villa, keep either Ibra or Villa on the bench.

There are pros and cons in all of them..

Choice B was the most viable option as Villa is spanish, he won the world cup with Iniesta, Xavi, Puyol, Pique.. Ofcourse they would want him there.

[Mach III]

Barcelona are in debt.

In alot more than 12million debt.

[Mach III]

In my opinion and example of a flop would be Robinho for Man City.

Compare the 2.

[nivek]

In alot more than 12million debt.

Every million adds up, and lets not forget the interest on the 12 million

[Mach III]

Every million adds up, and lets not forget the interest on the 12 million

Yes, so there are other expenses too. That is how they run the club.

[RexxGrim]

Do you think 12million will heavily effect their finances?

In relation to Barcelona's finances 12million is peanuts..

So a f-up is not a f-up as long as you can afford it. Your argument fails here.

[Tarantula]

Oh god, is this still going on? I am truely sorry I dropped the "Ibra flop" bomb.

[RexxGrim]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_6718576,00.html

Cesc faces no FA Action.

So Moyes goes off in his post match about Cesc abusing the referee, yet the referee in question does not even deam it worthy to include in his report. Cesc is waiting for your apology David.

Would like to see a transcript of what he said to the ref against United when he ran onto the pitch after the ref blew the final whistle with his team on the attack. I am sure it was just a friendly word.

[RexxGrim]

Theo (ankle) and Song (thigh) are both out. Seems they don't know how long yet.

Nasri scan reveals hamstring strain and that puts it on 21 days.

Oh well, I am staying positive.

[Mach III]

So a f-up is not a f-up as long as you can afford it. Your argument fails here.

You can't explain why he was a f-up your argument fails there. Well done, wake up!

Can you stop making pointless statements please.

[RexxGrim]

You can't explain why he was a f-up your argument fails there. Well done, wake up!

Can you stop making pointless statements please.

http://swissramble.blogspot.com/search/label/Barcelona

It's a bit technical and I don't expect you to understand everything. Give it a try.

The bit in bold made me smile.

[smokey]

http://swissramble.blogspot.com/search/label/Barcelona

It's a bit technical and I don't expect you to understand everything. Give it a try.

The bit in bold made me smile.

Brilliant article.

[Mach III]

http://swissramble.blogspot.com/search/label/Barcelona

It's a bit technical and I don't expect you to understand everything. Give it a try.

The bit in bold made me smile.

Regardless of whether it made you smile or not, it finally enticed you into giving me something decent to read. Thanks

I will read it later.

Lol @ that.

The only reason you must have thought it was difficult for me to understand is because you felt insecure about understanding it? -If that is so, then you deserve another lol.

[Tarantula]

Surgery rules Fabianski out for the season


The Polish goalkeeper has been sidelined since early January with a shoulder injury and he is about to undergo surgery to cure the problem.

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/surgery-rules-fabianski-out-for-the-season

Probably the reason why Almunia wasn't sold in January.

[Mach III]

Surgery rules Fabianski out for the season


http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/surgery-rules-fabianski-out-for-the-season

Probably the reason why Almunia wasn't sold in January.

Heading should be: "Surgery rules Fabianski out forever"

Our boytjie Szczczezny is too good :)

[MartyMarts]

That's just great :mad:
Well hopefully Szczesny stays fit and continues his good form.

[RexxGrim]

Songs out for Weekend, but it seems Theo has recovered. Some good news atleast.

[Mach III]

Who was it here that said when the Transfer Window closes Arsenals players start getting injured?

[Tarantula]

Songs out for Weekend, but it seems Theo has recovered. Some good news atleast.

Great. That means we'll have Denilson/Diaby as CDM. Sigh.

[nivek]

Great. That means we'll have Denilson/Diaby as CDM. Sigh.

Diaby,
Denilson is also out

[RexxGrim]

Diaby,
Denilson is also out

Denilson has been very poor lately no big loss there. Diaby Cesc JW in midfield should be fine. Song is worrying, because he is our backup defender as well.

[Mach III]

Please tell me you guys rate Diaby...

[nivek]

Please tell me you guys rate Diaby...

Diaby is decent, I dont rate his ankles though

[MartyMarts]

Please tell me you guys rate Diaby...

On a scale of 1 to 10 I give him a C minus.

[RexxGrim]

Diaby is decent, I dont rate his ankles though

Diaby is a bit inconsistant. Could be all the injuries.

[smokey]

Diaby is decent, I dont rate his ankles though

I also have an ankle fetish. However, my fetish is with female ankles. To each his own I guess.

[SEF]

I also have an ankle fetish. However, my fetish is with female ankles. To each his own I guess.

Good man :D
Gold chain around the ankles. Gets me everytime :)

[Mach III]

Seeing as though you guys love statistics, it would only be natural that you rate him. He was consistently in the top 40 in the castrol rankings last season, right?

[nivek]

I also have an ankle fetish. However, my fetish is with female ankles. To each his own I guess.

:mad:

[nivek]

Seeing as though you guys love statistics, it would only be natural that you rate him. He was consistently in the top 40 in the castrol rankings last season, right?

He's a decent player.. My only gripe with him besides his constant injury niggles is like Denilson he occasionally switches off and doesnt track back

[RexxGrim]

Fabianski is out for the rest of the season as you might have heard. This time last year you would have thanked us.

Very true. :D

[Mach III]

He's a decent player.. My only gripe with him besides his constant injury niggles is like Denilson he occasionally switches off and doesnt track back

Yeah, that is true..

Its awesome when he hits form!

[nivek]

Yeah, that is true..

Its awesome when he hits form!

He holds the ball up nicely, no wonder he's always injured, players are always snapping at his ankles

[Mach III]

Yip, I like that about him, cause he's the only player that has the audacity to do that since Hleb.

[RexxGrim]

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/koscielny-earns-first-france-call-up

Nice to see his recent perfomances acknowledge in this way.

[Mach III]

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/koscielny-earns-first-france-call-up

Nice to see his recent perfomances acknowledge in this way.

Awesome!

[nivek]

haha, newcastle moving for aliadiere, now theres a name i havent seen in a while

[Tarantula]

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/koscielny-earns-first-france-call-up

Nice to see his recent perfomances acknowledge in this way.

Ah yes, our first injury of a player on international duty.

[phiber]

With the injuries in midfield, think we should play 4-4-2. Haven't seen Chamakh play for a while, not sure if he will be back to start today though. My 11 for today would be, considering some rotation:

Szczesny, clichy, Kos, Djourou, Sagna, Cesc, Jack, Arshavin, Rosicky, RVP, Bendtner.

Prob see Gibbs, Eboue and Chamakh start next week, while we rest some guys for Barca. Lets hope Song will be back for Barca.

[DarkDenim]

With the injuries in midfield, think we should play 4-4-2. Haven't seen Chamakh play for a while, not sure if he will be back to start today though. My 11 for today would be, considering some rotation:

Szczesny, clichy, Kos, Djourou, Sagna, Cesc, Jack, Arshavin, Rosicky, RVP, Bendtner.

Prob see Gibbs, Eboue and Chamakh start next week, while we rest some guys for Barca. Lets hope Song will be back for Barca.

Confirmed squad: Szczesny, Clichy, Djourou, Koscielny, Sagna, Wilshere, Diaby, Fabregas, Walcott, Rosicky, van Persie, Almunia, Chamakh, Bendtner, Arshavin, Eboue, Gibbs, Squillaci.

Playing 4-5-1. Go Gunners!!!

[SinghDude]

2-0 after 3 min. Goodstuff Gunners :)

[DarkDenim]

3-0 in less than 10 mins of play :D

[DarkDenim]

4-0 :D

[SinghDude]

When it rains,it pours. Good chance to abs murder the magpies...half a dozen should teach them.

[DarkDenim]

Some (if not all) Newcastle players are wearing Power Balance bracelets. Need I say more? Lol

[SinghDude]

Hope gunners can score atleasy 10 ... Would improve their goal differnce

[SinghDude]

Some of the toon army already leaving, can't bear to watch the horror show.

[DarkDenim]

Diaby is an idiot. Hope Wenger never fields that sissy again. Now we have to defend for the rest of the match FFS.

[DarkDenim]

It's now a horror show for us thanks to Diaby :(

[Helghast]

OMF! Come back!?

[RexxGrim]

12 against 10 is allways a bit tought

[SinghDude]

Gunners should hold on.

[SinghDude]

Fark 4-4

[DarkDenim]

Newcastle deserve a victory. Their coach just fielded another striker for the kill shot :(

[mmmig]

:confused::cry:

[Helghast]

Wow! What a Come back!
We all thought it was over after 10min.

[DarkDenim]

Diaby cost us 2 points and ultimately the title. May he burn in hell!

[SinghDude]

Wenger wenger oh wenger !

Title contenders don't fark up a 4-0 lead. Fergie is smiling, watch the Mancs tear up Wolves.

[DarkDenim]

Wenger wenger oh wenger !

Title contenders don't fark up a 4-0 lead. Fergie is smiling, watch the Mancs tear up Wolves.

You can't blame Wenger or the team. Diaby is the tosser that has cost us the league :mad:

[phiber]

You can't blame Wenger or the team. Diaby is the tosser that has cost us the league :mad:

I know you can't just blame Diaby, but I still will!!! MARCH HIM ONTO THE TRANSFER LIST!!!

[DarkDenim]

His actions were inappropriate and immature but I guess we have to forget about the title and move on.

[poolmania]

oh my word. Supporters these days are so fickle. It's **** that you allowed them to come back but you are not out of the running. Still some six pointer games coming up and a week in football can change everything.

Modern football is ****.

[poolmania]

His actions were inappropriate and immature but I guess we have to forget about the title and move on.

a bit ironic considering newcastle just set an example that anything is possible and you can never right of a team thats up against it. Take it on the chin and go for it.

[RexxGrim]

oh my word. Supporters these days are so fickle. It's **** that you allowed them to come back but you are not out of the running. Still some six pointer games coming up and a week in football can change everything.

Modern football is ****.

Some pretty shocking decisions today. Not only in Arsenal games. A lot of angry managers out there. Diaby is wrong and stupid, but how the hell was Barton still on the field. Tackles on Andreiy, Jack and twice on Diaby. If the ref is not going to the book players are
going to react. Simple.

[SEF]

Looks like a game of two different halves. Must have been amazing to watch.

[poolmania]

1 point gained on man united. Not bad eh.....

Is the the season still over darkdenim?

[MickeyD]

Wolves have just done you guys a HUGE favour!!!

[SinghDude]

Wolves have just done you guys a HUGE favour!!!

Gap shud have closed.

[smokey]

Dunno what all the hate is about, you went one point up on United...

[DarkDenim]

Looks like a game of two different halves. Must have been amazing to watch.

It certainly was. The red card altered the game altogether. Poolmania please stop making retarded comments. Had you watched the match you would've seen that Newcastle were no match for Arsenal until Diaby lost his marbles.

It's not so bad after-all; Man U lost to Wolves :D

[DarkDenim]

Dunno what all the hate is about, you went one point up on United...

Did you watch the match?

[smokey]

Did you watch the match?

Only the first half. Have night shift, so had a bit of a kip. Thing is... Diaby might have been sent off but the fact is that the team on the field conceded 4 goals.

[MickeyD]

Did you watch the match?
Yes.

[DarkDenim]

Only the first half. Have night shift, so had a bit of a kip. Thing is... Diaby might have been sent off but the fact is that the team on the field conceded 4 goals.

I think you're right after-all.

[mmmig]

crowd helped influence the ref into giving the 2nd penality which IMO was very soft, I think Barton should of been sent off for the tackle

[poolmania]

It certainly was. The red card altered the game altogether. Poolmania please stop making retarded comments. Had you watched the match you would've seen that Newcastle were no match for Arsenal until Diaby lost his marbles.

It's not so bad after-all; Man U lost to Wolves :D

Strange post.

[Randhir]

crowd helped influence the ref into giving the 2nd penality which IMO was very soft, I think Barton should of been sent off for the tackle

Second penalty was balls.

[DarkDenim]

Strange post.

Obviously consoling myself and apologies for calling your comments retarded :D

[nivek]

Diaby cost us 2 points and ultimately the title. May he burn in hell!


Diaby has struggled with injuries through his entire career due to reckless tackles, most recently something similar from Evra, the guy just got back and what does that thug Barton do? Nearly break his leg again..
He reacted because he was so close to missing another year of football, its called emotion
And the title isn't lost at all, no one was expecting United to drop points against Wolves, so we gained something this weekend.

Also, Phil Dowd handed them the game with so many bad decisions, Barton and Nolan should never have finished the game, and the second penalty was a joke

IF anyone should be burning, its Phil

[phiber]

Diaby has struggled with injuries through his entire career due to reckless tackles, most recently something similar from Evra, the guy just got back and what does that thug Barton do? Nearly break his leg again..
He reacted because he was so close to missing another year of football, its called emotion
And the title isn't lost at all, no one was expecting United to drop points against Wolves, so we gained something this weekend.

Also, Phil Dowd handed them the game with so many bad decisions, Barton and Nolan should never have finished the game, and the second penalty was a joke

IF anyone should be burning, its Phil

Look, ref was shocking, but what Diaby did is unforgivable.A more mature player (eg Viera) would have waited a little bit and hit Barton hard with a tackle, make him feel what he felt.

[poolmania]

Diaby has struggled with injuries through his entire career due to reckless tackles, most recently something similar from Evra, the guy just got back and what does that thug Barton do? Nearly break his leg again..
He reacted because he was so close to missing another year of football, its called emotion
And the title isn't lost at all, no one was expecting United to drop points against Wolves, so we gained something this weekend.

Also, Phil Dowd handed them the game with so many bad decisions, Barton and Nolan should never have finished the game, and the second penalty was a joke

IF anyone should be burning, its Phil

it was a terrible tackle, could of easily broken his leg. I would of done the same in his position. It's the 10 men on the pitch that should hang their head in shame. 1-0 or 2-0 up, fair enough, 4-0 up, that should never happen, 10 men or 11 men.

[nivek]

it was a terrible tackle, could of easily broken his leg. I would of done the same in his position. It's the 10 men on the pitch that should hang their head in shame. 1-0 or 2-0 up, fair enough, 4-0 up, that should never happen, 10 men or 11 men.

Agreed
But Dowd played a bigger role in the callapse than both Newcastle and Arsenal
Anyway
Go kick some ass today ;)
Nothing less than smokey in tears tonight is acceptable :D

[Stickfigure]

How do you concede 4 goals in 23 mins? :confused:

[nivek]

How do you concede 4 goals in 23 mins? :confused:
Step 1) You have your best central defender of the season taken off due to injury
Step 2) Wait for a thug like Barton to instigate a red card, and have your CDM sent off
Step 3) Give away a cheap penalty (Watch as Kevin Nolan acts out the exact same dirty dead on your keeper, as Diaby did, and only recieve a yellow:wtf:)
Step 4) Put on Eboue
Step 5) Wait for the ref to gift the opposition another cheap goal

[Randhir]

Step 1) You have your best central defender of the season taken off due to injury
Step 2) Wait for a thug like Barton to instigate a red card, and have your CDM sent off
Step 3) Give away a cheap penalty (Watch as Kevin Nolan acts out the exact same dirty dead on your keeper, as Diaby did, and only recieve a yellow:wtf:)
Step 4) Put on Eboue
Step 5) Wait for the ref to gift the opposition another cheap goal

Oh please. While I fully agree that the second penalty was absolute horsesh*t, don't blame Barton for instigating. Ronaldo had his fair share of reds for retaliating over the years of getting the crap kicked out of hit, but back then the same thing was said, "he's an idiot, other opposition players are baiting him, he needs to learn". Diaby's red was his fault alone, he's not a child or a junior player. If that was an excuse, Messi would be red carded every time he played. The same thing was said about Sagna against City, "oh he was kicked about last week and this week, so he needed to let off some steam". These are not excuses, and they're detrimental to the team, as we saw yesterday. All Diaby had to do was keep his cool and Arsenal would've been within two points of United.

Oh and by the way, Arsenal are now 19th on the disciplinary table. Another red for violent conduct.

[DarkDenim]

Defend Diaby all you want but it was him and the ref that cost Arsenal 2 points. Wenger must not accept such puerility from any of his players; yet he does (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1354110/Wenger-furious-Diabys-red-card-leads-Arsenals-goal-collapse-Newcastle.html).



Wenger refused to condemn his midfielder, Abou Diaby, for the retaliation which earned him a match-changing red card and claimed that Newcastle's Joey Barton should have been sent off instead for his challenge on the French international midfielder.

'I cannot measure how angry I am,' said Wenger, after seeing his side's 4-0 lead reduced to a 4-4 draw. 'I believe Barton was very lucky to stay on the pitch because of the tackle on Diaby. The sending-off was the turning point. We have to take it on the chin but it doesn't help our push for the title.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1354110/Wenger-furious-Diabys-red-card-leads-Arsenals-goal-collapse-Newcastle.html#ixzz1DArwYySy



I hope Wilshere doesn't get fined for tweeting the truth...



Newcastle came from 4-0 down to hold Arsenal at St James' Park.

In a post on his official Twitter page, Wilshere wrote: 'Inconsistent refereing needs to stop.its killing the game.if Diaby goes..whats the difference between that and Nolan on our keeper!?? joke.'

The criticism of the officiating could leave 19-year-old Wilshere open to Football Association action.

Former Liverpool striker Ryan Babel was fined £10,000 by the FA last month when he posted a doctored photo of referee Howard Webb in a Manchester United shirt, following a 1-0 defeat for Kenny Dalglish's team at Old Trafford.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1354080/Jack-Wilshere-tweets-anger-referee-Phil-Dowd-Arsenal-let-goal-lead-slip-Newcastle.html#ixzz1DArGrKrk

[DarkDenim]

Oh please. While I fully agree that the second penalty was absolute horsesh*t, don't blame Barton for instigating. Ronaldo had his fair share of reds for retaliating over the years of getting the crap kicked out of hit, but back then the same thing was said, "he's an idiot, other opposition players are baiting him, he needs to learn". Diaby's red was his fault alone, he's not a child or a junior player. If that was an excuse, Messi would be red carded every time he played. The same thing was said about Sagna against City, "oh he was kicked about last week and this week, so he needed to let off some steam". These are not excuses, and they're detrimental to the team, as we saw yesterday. All Diaby had to do was keep his cool and Arsenal would've been within two points of United.

Oh and by the way, Arsenal are now 19th on the disciplinary table. Another red for violent conduct.

Precisely!

[smokey]

Agreed
But Dowd played a bigger role in the callapse than both Newcastle and Arsenal
Anyway
Go kick some ass today ;)
Nothing less than smokey in tears tonight is acceptable :D

Like you were last night?

[nivek]

Like you were last night?

Temporarily, but not after United lost ;)

[nivek]

Oh please. While I fully agree that the second penalty was absolute horsesh*t, don't blame Barton for instigating. Ronaldo had his fair share of reds for retaliating over the years of getting the crap kicked out of hit, but back then the same thing was said, "he's an idiot, other opposition players are baiting him, he needs to learn". Diaby's red was his fault alone, he's not a child or a junior player. If that was an excuse, Messi would be red carded every time he played. The same thing was said about Sagna against City, "oh he was kicked about last week and this week, so he needed to let off some steam". These are not excuses, and they're detrimental to the team, as we saw yesterday. All Diaby had to do was keep his cool and Arsenal would've been within two points of United.

Oh and by the way, Arsenal are now 19th on the disciplinary table. Another red for violent conduct.

Ronaldo hasn't spent 85% of his career our injured due to reckless tackles, ofcourse it was stupid, but I can see where hes coming from and why he snapped

[smokey]

Temporarily, but not after United lost ;)

Oh well, I might have cried if it wasn't for a lovely second half display by Newcastle last night...

[Mach III]

WTF, the comments supporters make about the match?

If it takes me to say I love Bendtner I will, as to not be associated with DarkDenim..

And Nivek is right! The winner of this weekend is Nivek.

We closer to ManU than we were last weekend and Joey Barton should be on death row.

[Mach III]

Oh please. While I fully agree that the second penalty was absolute horsesh*t, don't blame Barton for instigating. Ronaldo had his fair share of reds for retaliating over the years of getting the crap kicked out of hit, but back then the same thing was said, "he's an idiot, other opposition players are baiting him, he needs to learn". Diaby's red was his fault alone, he's not a child or a junior player. If that was an excuse, Messi would be red carded every time he played. The same thing was said about Sagna against City, "oh he was kicked about last week and this week, so he needed to let off some steam". These are not excuses, and they're detrimental to the team, as we saw yesterday. All Diaby had to do was keep his cool and Arsenal would've been within two points of United.

Oh and by the way, Arsenal are now 19th on the disciplinary table. Another red for violent conduct.

Okay, let me come play a game of football with you, I kick your leg, I kick your leg, I break your leg.
A year later, "howzit Randhir, glad you've recovered from your broken leg.. Lets play some footy!" - I kick your leg, I kick your leg, I break your leg again.

I kick your leg, I kick your leg, and you say "f()ck YOU"

How many times has Ronaldo had a broken leg, and Messi??

[nivek]

WTF, the comments supporters make about the match?

If it takes me to say I love Bendtner I will, as to not be associated with DarkDenim..

And Nivek is right! The winner of this weekend is Nivek.

We closer to ManU than we were last weekend and Joey Barton should be on death row.

:D

Yeah, it was a good weekend, 1 point further from Chelsea, 1 point closer to United, we just need to hope Chelsea find some form and beat United both times in their upcoming matches

I honestly dont understand how Barton is still allowed to play in the EPL, he is malicious
http://arsenalist.com/video/?id=xgwj72
I dont think the FA will do anything until he breaks one of the England squad players legs

[nivek]

Okay, let me come play a game of football with you, I kick your leg, I kick your leg, I break your leg.
A year later, "howzit Randhir, glad you've recovered from your broken leg.. Lets play some footy!" - I kick your leg, I kick your leg, I break your leg again.

I kick your leg, I kick your leg, and you say "f()ck YOU"

How many times has Ronaldo had a broken leg, and Messi??

Yea, I also think we need to differentiate between your regular foul, someone coming out to break intentionally break something, ala Barton

[Mach III]

Yea, I also think we need to differentiate between your regular foul, someone coming out to break intentionally break something, ala Barton

Yeah, that is like saying of Eduardo, "I wasn't that scared when I was 10 years old, I used to play rugby. He must get rid of his estrogen."

And, I think that United's Season is over! -What was keeping them going was their impossible belief in being 'invincibles'. Now that the carpet has been pulled from under their feet, and they can see that they are all clowns... -It is game over!

[dbecks]

Yeah, that is like saying of Eduardo, "I wasn't that scared when I was 10 years old, I used to play rugby. He must get rid of his estrogen."

And, I think that United's Season is over! -What was keeping them going was their impossible belief in being 'invincibles'. Now that the carpet has been pulled from under their feet, and they can see that they are all clowns... -It is game over!Bwaaaaaahahahahaha - shame! 4 nil up and you draw - yet United are clowns....

[Mach III]

Bwaaaaaahahahahaha - shame! 4 nil up and you draw - yet United are clowns....

Ha ha ha..

Newcastle were always going to score 4, we just beat them to it!

[MartyMarts]

I'm really disappointed we threw away a four goal lead - iirc, that's some kind of record for an EPL match?? Throughout those demoralising last 20 minutes, something became blatantly obvious - Arsenal were lacking a leader on the pitch.

Man U losing to Wolves made me feel a lot better though :D

[Randhir]

Okay, let me come play a game of football with you, I kick your leg, I kick your leg, I break your leg.
A year later, "howzit Randhir, glad you've recovered from your broken leg.. Lets play some footy!" - I kick your leg, I kick your leg, I break your leg again.

I kick your leg, I kick your leg, and you say "f()ck YOU"

How many times has Ronaldo had a broken leg, and Messi??

That has almost nothing to do with my argument. Or are you saying that every player who had a bad injury should be around to react violently to a bad tackle? It was a red, get over it.



And, I think that United's Season is over! -What was keeping them going was their impossible belief in being 'invincibles'. Now that the carpet has been pulled from under their feet, and they can see that they are all clowns... -It is game over!

OK, you think that. I bet you Wenger doesn't. Underestimate United to your detriment.

[FunkyToyz]

OK, you think that. I bet you Wenger doesn't. Underestimate United to your detriment.

Going on an unbeaten run in the league this season has been an enormous achievment for UTD while it lasted. I think the pressure valve needed to be opened though to allow the players some ease on their shoulders.

[Mach III]

That has almost nothing to do with my argument. Or are you saying that every player who had a bad injury should be around to react violently to a bad tackle? It was a red, get over it.



OK, you think that. I bet you Wenger doesn't. Underestimate United to your detriment.

He is in a very specific category of players.. Not all players get injured as badly as he has.
But if you think it is that easy to get over it, you should not be in south africa.. You should be coining it counciling them. I would even buy your book.

United are over this season, they were hangin on a thread. It is now Arsenal and City!

[craigdoepie]

Can't agree with the last few comments. Utd's downfall has just started. It's almost like SA cricket, they have a good opening partnership, but once one wicket falls it all crumbles from there. I didn't watch the game, but its a pity how you guys lost a 4-0 lead. And come on guys you can't blame a 4 goal lead draw on 1 player. Football is a team game and not just 1 player. How many times has teams played with 10 men and keep the result the same or even gone on to win the game.

Yes it is 1 point gained on Utd and be happy about, but imagine how it would of felt if it was 3 points gained.

[Randhir]

He is in a very specific category of players.. Not all players get injured as badly as he has.
But if you think it is that easy to get over it, you should not be in south africa.. You should be coining it counciling them. I would even buy your book.

United are over this season, they were hangin on a thread. It is now Arsenal and City!

Again, nothing to do with my comments. It was a red, get over it.

[nivek]

Can't agree with the last few comments. Utd's downfall has just started. It's almost like SA cricket, they have a good opening partnership, but once one wicket falls it all crumbles from there. I didn't watch the game, but its a pity how you guys lost a 4-0 lead. And come on guys you can't blame a 4 goal lead draw on 1 player. Football is a team game and not just 1 player. How many times has teams played with 10 men and keep the result the same or even gone on to win the game.

Yes it is 1 point gained on Utd and be happy about, but imagine how it would of felt if it was 3 points gained.

United may have let off against Wolves because they felt the pressure was off, with Arsenal dropping points

Anyway, you need to have watched the game to see why things went the way they did, Dowd played a massive role in the result

[nivek]

Again, nothing to do with my comments. It was a red, get over it.

Agree it was a red

Whats your opinion on Nolan grabbing Chesney by the neck and throwing him to the ground?

[dbecks]

Going on an unbeaten run in the league this season has been an enormous achievment for UTD while it lasted. I think the pressure valve needed to be opened though to allow the players some ease on their shoulders.Could be, which is a positive in some way - yet some ppl are foolishy thinking (shoud I say hoping) that its a slippery slope

[MartyMarts]

Agree it was a red

Whats your opinion on Nolan grabbing Chesney by the neck and throwing him to the ground?

Based on Diaby's red, Nolan should have been sent off imo.

[Randhir]

Agree it was a red

Whats your opinion on Nolan grabbing Chesney by the neck and throwing him to the ground?

Didn't see it, but from what I've heard he should've gone off...

[Mach III]

Could be, which is a positive in some way - yet some ppl are foolishy thinking (shoud I say hoping) that its a slippery slope

It is hoping!!

[dbecks]

It is hoping!!

:D

[Tarantula]

Plenty of United folk chirping on the Arsenal thread. Probably the closest they are going to get to being the "Invincibles". :D

[dbecks]

Plenty of United folk chirping on the Arsenal thread. Probably the closest they are going to get to being the "Invincibles". :DMuch closer than your current team....:D

[Mach III]

Much closer than your current team....:D

We've been to the moon already ;)

You guys were just lifting off! :)

[nivek]

Djourou out for a month :(

So that leaves Squillaci and Koscielny to deal with Messi...
Maybe TV will be rushed back

[Mach III]

We need a miracle for Barca..

[SinghDude]

We need a miracle for Barca..

Start praying now ;)

Seriously thou, this time around the Gunners should have more experience playing against Barca...could be alot different than most people anticipate.

[Mach III]

I think we'll have a great chance of winning...

if a meteor lands on messi...


we just need Howard Webb to wave play on... (When he sees alot of Fabregas's he will assume Arsenal are Man united)

[SinghDude]

I think we'll have a great chance of winning...

if a meteor lands on messi...


we just need Howard Webb to wave play on... (When he sees alot of Fabregas's he will assume Arsenal are Man united)

What if that meteor's name was Song or Diaby ?

[Mach III]

What if that meteor's name was Song or Diaby ?

Then our odds increase big time, real big time ;)

[RexxGrim]

Djourou out for a month :(

So that leaves Squillaci and Koscielny to deal with Messi...
Maybe TV will be rushed back

Song, Vermaelen and Djourou injured. Djourou is not just unlucky. Wenger himself said that he can't play him twice a week because he is fragile. So his injury was expected.

So far we've drawn 5 and lost 5. Squillaci was involved in all the 5 losing fixtures and in 3 of the ones we drew. He is slow and not up to the pace of the EPL. He gets himself in trouble with being out of posision and wrecks our whole defense. To be honest, I've never had less confidence in an Arsenal player than this guy at the moment. Yes that includes Silvestre.

We're going to need to score goals to stay in this, and it seems 4 is not enough.

[Alan]

how many Arsenal players have won a league title in any of Europe's major leagues? Or a UEFA cup or CL?

http://www.studs-up.com/comics/2011-02-04.jpg

[FunkyToyz]

From the way Barca has been playing this season, breaking records while the players are enjoying themselves on the park, it will be extremely difficult to win against this team.

Barca's record for this season
Played 22
Won 20
Lost 1
Drew 1
GF 70
GA 11

Good luck David, as this Goliath doesn't seem as if his gonna fall very soon.

[SinghDude]

how many Arsenal players have won a league title in any of Europe's major leagues? Or a UEFA cup or CL?

http://www.studs-up.com/comics/2011-02-04.jpg

I give up. i dont know.

[R13...]

It's good thing no one expects us to beat Barca this time round.

[RexxGrim]

how many Arsenal players have won a league title in any of Europe's major leagues? Or a UEFA cup or CL?

Is this trivia Monday? What am I missing? Are you just on about Liverpool's record again. We get it trophy room full, but a bit dusty none the less.

[SinghDude]

It's good thing no one expects us to beat Barca this time round.

I have a sneeky suspicion that Barca will be in for a surprise.
Barca_Lite just needs to believe in their own abilities and could just pull it off.

[RexxGrim]

From the way Barca has been playing this season, breaking records while the players are enjoying themselves on the park, it will be extremely difficult to win against this team.

Barca's record for this season
Played 22
Won 20
Lost 1
Drew 1
GF 70
GA 11

Good luck David, as this Goliath doesn't seem as if his gonna fall very soon.

16 straight wins in La Liga, never happend before. Think they achieved that this weekend.

[Alan]

I have a sneeky suspicion that Barca will be in for a surprise.
Barca_Lite just needs to believe in their own abilities and could just pull it off.

Like we did :cool:


I give up. i dont know.

I dunno either. I think that's possibly their primaryr problem.

[SinghDude]

16 straight wins in La Liga, never happend before. Think they achieved that this weekend.

Yeah, they beat Madrid's record.

Will Mo lose his mind if they lose the El Classico at home ? The dude hasnt lost a home league match in four differnt leagues.... Will that come to an end this season ?

[FunkyToyz]

16 straight wins in La Liga, never happend before. Think they achieved that this weekend.

I think what should stand out is that were not wins where Barca scraped through...what, the average per game must be 2 or 3 goals?

[SinghDude]

I think what should stand out is that were not wins where Barca scraped through...what, the average per game must be 2 or 3 goals?

La Liga is becoming a procession. Just a two team league. Pity there is'nt more teams challenging for the league.

Reminds me off the Old Firm.

[Mach III]

It will be better than the Arsenal v Ac Milan match if we win!

[theratman]

As soon as Squillaci came on you were doomed,that guy is worse than williamson :D
Diaby was an idiot.He was playing so well too.
Nolan sending off perhaps,the keeper IS NOT ALLOWED to hold onto the ball,both of them should have been sent off.

[nivek]

As soon as Squillaci came on you were doomed,that guy is worse than williamson :D
Diaby was an idiot.He was playing so well too.
Nolan sending off perhaps,the keeper IS NOT ALLOWED to hold onto the ball,both of them should have been sent off.

Oh come on, holding onto the ball is hardly a sending off offense, yellow maybe.. Grabbing someone by the neck is, however.. (Just ask Diaby)
Good come back btw, did you watch the game?

[RexxGrim]

Oh come on, holding onto the ball is hardly a sending off offense, yellow maybe.. Grabbing someone by the neck is, however.. (Just ask Diaby)
Good come back btw, did you watch the game?

Funny thing is, had to pause the game on PVR (+-15min) so was watching it with a slight delay. I forgot about it and switch over to see the other scores. When I switch back the score was 4-2, because it went back to real time. I missed the first 2 goals and the Nolan incident. Ofcoarse there was nothing about it on the highlights/discussion afterwards.

Whats done is done. The scores never change after a game. We need this to strengthen our resolve and just kick on.

There is really no presure on us as far as Barca is concerned. As long as they don't wipe the floor with us at home. At the Nou Camp 4-0 or better would mean we've done better than the might Real Madrid. :D

I am just thankfull that a certain barcelona fan (who's name I shall not speak) is no longer on these boards. By now I would've put a gun to my head.

[nivek]

Funny thing is, had to pause the game on PVR (+-15min) so was watching it with a slight delay. I forgot about it and switch over to see the other scores. When I switch back the score was 4-2, because it went back to real time. I missed the first 2 goals and the Nolan incident. Ofcoarse there was nothing about it on the highlights/discussion afterwards.

Whats done is done. The scores never change after a game. We need this to strengthen our resolve and just kick on.

There is really no presure on us as far as Barca is concerned. As long as they don't wipe the floor with us at home. At the Nou Camp 4-0 or better would mean we've done better than the might Real Madrid. :D

I am just thankfull that a certain barcelona fan (who's name I shall not speak) is no longer on these boards. By now I would've put a gun to my head.

http://www.101greatgoals.com/videodisplay/joey-barton-arsenal-8410523/

Also thankful he's gone
Is the Nou Camp the first or the 2nd game? Hopefully the 2nd

[Randhir]

Ofcoarse there was nothing about it on the highlights/discussion afterwards.


It's not necessarily an indication of bias. Which Arsenal fan here has mentioned the offside goal that wasn't offside?

[R13...]

http://www.101greatgoals.com/videodisplay/joey-barton-arsenal-8410523/

Also thankful he's gone
Is the Nou Camp the first or the 2nd game? Hopefully the 2nd
2nd... which normally stinks in the CL (teams prefer to finish at home), but I agree playing the away leg 2nd may benefit us. They could get cocky.

[nivek]

2nd... which normally stinks in the CL (teams prefer to finish at home), but I agree playing the away leg 2nd may benefit us. The could get cocky.

Well then thats good news, Djourou and Verm SHOULD both be back for that game then.. hopefully we dont lose anyone else :)

[craigdoepie]

Well then thats good news, Djourou and Verm SHOULD both be back for that game then.. hopefully we dont lose anyone else :)

Do you think Verm will be properly fit to play the game and I am not a Arsenal supporter. But if you guys can get your defence and keeper sorted, you guys can beat Barca. Barca is on a high, because there is no club which can challenge them in the Serie A. The sky is high, but it will be hard fall when they do fall. Gut feeling says Arsenal beats Barca

[RexxGrim]

It's not necessarily an indication of bias. Which Arsenal fan here has mentioned the offside goal that wasn't offside?

I am not saying its bias, but if you've got a player sent of for pushing another player and it happens the other way around and nothing happens you would think it might be a talking point. Obviously I am wrong.

As for Van Persies goal, well those decisions can go either way. Anyway thanks for reminding me, I was just about to get over the weekends game.

So the ref was dodgy, but in the end of the players must take their share of responsibility as well.

[nivek]

Do you think Verm will be properly fit to play the game and I am not a Arsenal supporter. But if you guys can get your defence and keeper sorted, you guys can beat Barca. Barca is on a high, because there is no club which can challenge them in the Serie A. The sky is high, but it will be hard fall when they do fall. Gut feeling says Arsenal beats Barca

I think he'll be ready, he was due back just before the first leg and apparently his recovery is going well
Well, Serie A is useless :D
But yes, no club can challenge them in la liga, but the structure of la liga means RM and Barca have massive advantages over the peasants below them

[nivek]

I am not saying its bias, but if you've got a player sent of for pushing another player and it happens the other way around and nothing happens you would think it might be a talking point. Obviously I am wrong.

As for Van Persies goal, well those decisions can go either way. Anyway thanks for reminding me, I was just about to get over the weekends game.

So the ref was dodgy, but in the end of the players must take their share of responsibility as well.

I think he meant the Newcastle goal that was incorrectly given offside :D

[RexxGrim]

I think he meant the Newcastle goal that was incorrectly given offside :D

Must have been in the 15 min I missed :D. Anyway RVP at the end was pretty tight, maybe a 1/4 yard offside. :p

Edit: The pundits said it was a harsh call so then it must have clearly onside. :D

[RexxGrim]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12010_6735614,00.html

Van Persie out of ducth squad with the flu. I wonder if Arsene has to send Bert a sicknote or will he just take his word.

[RexxGrim]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12010_6736451,00.html

Cesc out of Spain friendly with spuit skuit. The Arsenal med team is on fire, keep up the good work lads. :D

[craigdoepie]

I think he'll be ready, he was due back just before the first leg and apparently his recovery is going well
Well, Serie A is useless :D
But yes, no club can challenge them in la liga, but the structure of la liga means RM and Barca have massive advantages over the peasants below them

My bad, think the keyboard has a mind of its own today, meant La Liga. And just take in consideration that being fit does not mean a guy is match fit and still adjust with the team again. Quality defender, but think every player still needs a little playing time after coming back after a major injury

[Randhir]

Hahaha, well done Wenger..

[nivek]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwvVh0_ZelI

'Japanese binocular soccer'

[Mach III]

So quiet here..

[MR.C]

I am just thankfull that a certain barcelona fan (who's name I shall not speak) is no longer on these boards. By now I would've put a gun to my head.

+1000. I hope he finally realised what an ise-hole he was.

[nivek]

So Sagna is also suspended for Barca which means we'll have both Eboue and Squillaci on the pitch :( eeeeeek

We really need Song to recover in time, I'd go with something like this:

Eboue, Kos, Squi, Clichy
Song, Diaby, Wilshere
Arshavin (or Theo) Cesc
RVP

No news on Djourou yet

[Alan]

So Sagna is also suspended for Barca which means we'll have both Eboue and Squillaci on the pitch :( eeeeeek



:eek:

You risk a massacre

[mmmig]

Kos and Squi are like oil and water they just don't play well together

[nivek]

Kos and Squi are like oil and water they just don't play well together

Otherwise
Eboue, Kos, Song, Clichy
Cesc, Diaby, Wilshere
Arshavin Theo
RVP

[Mach III]

Looking bleak...

[RexxGrim]

Otherwise
Eboue, Kos, Song, Clichy
Cesc, Diaby, Wilshere
Arshavin Theo
RVP

Did we sign a new keeper? Who is Otherwise? :p

[nivek]

Did we sign a new keeper? Who is Otherwise? :p
:twisted:

[RexxGrim]

Some options for Koscielny defensive partner until Djourou or Vermaelen is back.

1) Faye White - 32 year old Arsenal Ladies Captain and England Ladies Captain.
2) Arsene Wenger - At 6ft 4' he would be a scary and commanding figure in the box
3) Manuel Almunia - Provided that he is allowed to use his gloves in our half
4) Training Ground dummy
5) Playing with ten men
6) Squillaci.

Maybe I am being a bit hard on the guy. Lets hope he can get some form back.

[DarkDenim]

Now for Fabregas! Chelsea set to launch £50m summer bid for Cesc after splashing out on Torres

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1354761/Chelsea-set-launch-50m-bid-Cesc-Fabregas.html

Fabregas is too good and too classy for Chelsea.

[DarkDenim]

Best Bendtner description ever...



Apart from having no touch, no positional sense, no heading ability, no speed, is unable to beat a man and his shooting is poor, he is a marvelous footballer and Arsenal richly deserve him. Long may he play for them in his pink boots!

- Jack, Prescot, UK, 8/2/2011 12:24

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1354689/Nicklas-Bendtner-I-deserve-50k-week-wage-Arsenal--Ive-skiing-football.html#ixzz1DNq4Jb1W

[nivek]

Some options for Koscielny defensive partner until Djourou or Vermaelen is back.

1) Faye White - 32 year old Arsenal Ladies Captain and England Ladies Captain.
2) Arsene Wenger - At 6ft 4' he would be a scary and commanding figure in the box
3) Manuel Almunia - Provided that he is allowed to use his gloves in our half
4) Training Ground dummy
5) Playing with ten men
6) Squillaci.

Maybe I am being a bit hard on the guy. Lets hope he can get some form back.

Djourou will apparently be back for Barca (according to the swiss med team)

[nivek]

Best Bendtner description ever...

I don't think anyone cares about what you have to say about Bendtner anymore

[RexxGrim]

I don't think anyone cares about what you have to say about Bendtner anymore

+1

[DarkDenim]

I don't think anyone cares about what you have to say about Bendtner anymore

Okay no more Bendtner bashing I promise.

[Mach III]

Okay, so ideally:

We demolish wolves first half (whilst man u lose) -sub our stars.

Fight for a victory against FC Barthalona..

and Lift up the Glory in Wembley! :)

[nivek]

Amen :D

But wait, what about the second half?

[mmmig]

Can Wenger get a player on loan?

[nivek]

Can Wenger get a player on loan?

like who?

[Mach III]

I don't believe in second half's anymore ... .. .

[RexxGrim]

Djourou will apparently be back for Barca (according to the swiss med team)


There’s still no official news regarding Johan Djourou but from the bits and pieces you can pick up online it seems he’s not in danger of missing many games. Can’t find the Tweet but some bloke from the BBC reckoned he could be back for the weekend, another chappy who puts go-faster kits on all the players cars said Djourou told him he was fine, and a random bloke who nobody has heard of saw Johan at his local Sainsbury’s and said he saw him buying ‘ Sainsbury’s own brand knee bruise poultice’ which is specifically used for knee bruises which aren’t that serious.

Loved the last bit in bold. It does not seem to be a carreer ending injury, but lets just remember, the first word on Vermaelen was 8 to 10 days. The Arsenal calendar can be a bit screwy at the best of times.


PS Mach III Arseblog.com is very nice Arsenal fan blog, think yesterday or todays post got a nice write up on your favourite player go check it out.

[Mach III]

Loved the last bit in bold. It does not seem to be a carreer ending injury, but lets just remember, the first word on Vermaelen was 8 to 10 days. The Arsenal calendar can be a bit screwy at the best of times.


PS Mach III Arseblog.com is very nice Arsenal fan blog, think yesterday or todays post got a nice write up on your favourite player go check it out.

Sweet, I read it.. He had a good review on the newcastle f-up! I prefer arsenal-mania.com (not that it relates to 'your favourite player') Ha ha..

[nivek]

arseblog>*

[RexxGrim]

arseblog>*

?

[Randhir]

arseblog>*

In the latest article, he points to the way that Wilshere always plays with confidence and never fear. I agree, and I also see it from Josh McEachran, who is just 17 and has such a prescence on the ball. I'd imagine that those two will be England's main CM pairing in the near future.

[nivek]

?
Bigger and better than all other blogs :)

In the latest article, he points to the way that Wilshere always plays with confidence and never fear. I agree, and I also see it from Josh McEachran, who is just 17 and has such a prescence on the ball. I'd imagine that those two will be England's main CM pairing in the near future.
Yip, next world cup hopefully.. I hope Jack gets a call up for the Euros, it'll be too soon for JM though

[SinghDude]

Is Theo playing tonight ?

Wenger surely must be praying he does not get injured.

[nivek]

Is Theo playing tonight ?

Wenger surely must be praying he does not get injured.

He was selected unfortunately :(

[RexxGrim]

Bigger and better than all other blogs :)

Started reading it after you linked to it a while back. For me its the most balanced of the blogs I read. Never read the comments though. Do you ever listen to the friday podcast?

[Randhir]

Started reading it after you linked to it a while back. For me its the most balanced of the blogs I read. Never read the comments though. Do you ever listen to the friday podcast?

I've found thechelseablog to be the most balanced, but for humour, you can't beat arseblog :D

[nivek]

Started reading it after you linked to it a while back. For me its the most balanced of the blogs I read. Never read the comments though. Do you ever listen to the friday podcast?

I don't read the comments either, and I don't listen to the podcast, I used to have them download to itunes every week but never actually got round to listening to them, dont really have the time or the patience :D
Btw he writes more generic articles for threeandin also

[nivek]

I've found thechelseablog to be the most balanced, but for humour, you can't beat arseblog :D

True, but from an Arsenal perspective he's one of the most balanced.. then you have blogs like legrove that bitch and moan about everything and actually think Arsenal FC bases most of their operational and football decisions on ramblings found in their blog.. A day won't go by why without the 3 words "I was right"

Sample:
http://le-grove.co.uk/2011/02/04/arsene-wenger-is-influenced-by-the-fans-its-official-and-the-ballet-what-a-joke-arsenal/

[R13...]

Remember if you have the iPhone (behold!) arseblog has an app (free).

[SinghDude]

Remember if you have the iPhone (behold!) arseblog has an app (free).

arseblog sounds so $h!tty... could they not have found a better name

[RexxGrim]

I've found thechelseablog to be the most balanced, but for humour, you can't beat arseblog :D

I meant balanced in an Arsenal sense. I assume the chelseablog is about chelsea, but will check it out. I've been know to click on the Republiek of Mancunia as well, but I refuse to bookmark it and only while I am in "Inprivate Browsing". What is Ferdinands Twitter nickname?




I don't read the comments either, and I don't listen to the podcast, I used to have them download to itunes every week but never actually got round to listening to them, dont really have the time or the patience
Btw he writes more generic articles for threeandin also

I always check out three and in, but I dont think they post every day.

[Randhir]

I've been know to click on the Republiek of Mancunia as well, but I refuse to bookmark it and only while I am in "Inprivate Browsing".



:D RoM is one of my favourite sites, but impartial it is not. (i know you didn't mean it is, just saying)


What is Ferdinands Twitter nickname?


I only use twitter for pigspotter :blushing:




I always check out three and in, but I dont think they post every day.

My favourite is that ex-division two footballer (can't remember name) who comes in and writes about once a week, his articles are hilarious, and most of the idiots who comment don't realise that it is meant tongue in cheek :)

[nivek]

I meant balanced in an Arsenal sense. I assume the chelseablog is about chelsea, but will check it out. I've been know to click on the Republiek of Mancunia as well, but I refuse to bookmark it and only while I am in "Inprivate Browsing". What is Ferdinands Twitter nickname?




rioferdy5

[nivek]

My favourite is that ex-division two footballer (can't remember name) who comes in and writes about once a week, his articles are hilarious, and most of the idiots who comment don't realise that it is meant tongue in cheek :)

He's not a real ex division two footballer :D

[Randhir]

He's not a real ex division two footballer :D

:) Didn't care enough to research. Still, his articles are priceless..

[nivek]

http://refworld.com/news/4/article/appointments-11-02-2011-16-02-2011/128553

Looks like Dowd has been dropped.. good news, doesnt deserve to officiate at the top level

[RexxGrim]

Their are some unsubstantiated rumours doing the rounds that Thomas Rosicky score a goal last night. Arseblog has a clip, but I can't access it. Could someone please confirm this for me as its a "have to see it to believe it" moment.

[Alan]

Arsenal have made an offer for Real Madrid defender Pepe following a contract breakdown with the Spanish giants, according to AS.

Chelsea and Manchester City are interested in the Portuguese international but Arsenal have made an offer of €30 million (£25m).

Pepe's contract expires in 2012 and it would appear the player and club are not even close to meeting each other's terms, despite Jose Mourinho pleading with the board to give in to the player's demands.

The centre-back currently earns €1.8m (£1.5m) per year, thought to be one of the lowest wages at the club, but is now demanding double that to sign an extension.

Despite such a hefty fee being touted for the Portugal international, he is only rated by the Castrol Rankings as the 506th best player currently plying his trade in one of the top five leagues in Europe.

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/02/09/2344407/arsenal-make-25m-offer-for-real-madrid-defender-pepe-report

[RexxGrim]

http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2011/02/09/2344407/arsenal-make-25m-offer-for-real-madrid-defender-pepe-report

Arsenal offer and an amount of more than £15m is fiction in its purest form.

[poffle]

Their are some unsubstantiated rumours doing the rounds that Thomas Rosicky score a goal last night. Arseblog has a clip, but I can't access it. Could someone please confirm this for me as its a "have to see it to believe it" moment.

Holy mackerel, its true. A low cross came and he actually scored - was quite a good finish actually. Nice.

[RexxGrim]

Holy mackerel, its true. A low cross came and he actually scored - was quite a good finish actually. Nice.

Lets hope that sparks a bit of a return to form for him.

[phiber]

Would play the following v barca:

Eboue, Kos, Djourou, Clichy (if djourou is injured, we can drop in Squillaci - wont play song here, as we did that 2nd leg vs barca last time and they ripped us a new one)
Walcott, Cesc, Jack, Song, Arsharvin,
RVP

I wouldn't start Diaby.

[nivek]

Would play the following v barca:

Eboue, Kos, Djourou, Clichy (if djourou is injured, we can drop in Squillaci - wont play song here, as we did that 2nd leg vs barca last time and they ripped us a new one)
Walcott, Cesc, Jack, Song, Arsharvin,
RVP

I wouldn't start Diaby.

Bare in mind Song was playing next to Silvestre :) if I remember correctly

[theratman]

Must have been in the 15 min I missed :D. Anyway RVP at the end was pretty tight, maybe a 1/4 yard offside. :p

Edit: The pundits said it was a harsh call so then it must have clearly onside. :D

He was offside,good finish though.

[RexxGrim]

Would play the following v barca:

Eboue, Kos, Djourou, Clichy (if djourou is injured, we can drop in Squillaci - wont play song here, as we did that 2nd leg vs barca last time and they ripped us a new one)
Walcott, Cesc, Jack, Song, Arsharvin,
RVP

I wouldn't start Diaby.

That would probably by our best 11, taking into account that Sagna, Nasri and TV will most probably not be available. Wilshere had a decent 45min for England last night. Theo got assist for first goal.

It seems Song and Djourou will both be available for this weekend, it must be some kind of Arsenal record for comebacks after injury. Also heard Nasri is back in training. Hopeful he could be ready for the second leg.

We need a win and a cleansheet, before we go to Camp Nou. I know its asking a lot, but I fear anything less than that would not be enough to progress.

[nivek]

http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/columnists/john-cross/John-Cross-column-Barcelona-are-a-great-side-but-the-epitome-of-a-well-run-club-Don-t-make-me-laugh-article694241.html

Great column :D

Special mention for Cantera in there, I'd post this in the Barcelona thread but its dead ;)



The snobbery surrounding Barcelona which seems to encourage people to walk around with their noses in the air wearing know-all grins is basically based on a lie.

Frankly, their oh-so superior fans can take their attitude and stick it where the sun doesn't shine.

[Mach III]

Would play the following v barca:

Eboue, Kos, Djourou, Clichy (if djourou is injured, we can drop in Squillaci - wont play song here, as we did that 2nd leg vs barca last time and they ripped us a new one)
Walcott, Cesc, Jack, Song, Arsharvin,
RVP

I wouldn't start Diaby.

Yeah, last time round, we needed Song :(..

But I think that we can play Wilshere in songs position!
Capello knows what he is doing...

[mmmig]

Arsenal the second highest earning club in England last year, not bad for a team that hasn't won a trophy in 5years

[MR.C]

At the Nou Camp (2nd leg), I'd play Walcott as the central striker to latch onto long balls from basically everyone. And I'd instruct Jack not to make any sliding tackles.

Scezny
Sagna. Djouru. Kos. Clichy
Eboue. Fab4. Nasri. Gibbs
RVP
Theo
Subs: jack, Song and a good defender like ermmm....

[Tarantula]

At the Nou Camp (2nd leg), I'd play Walcott as the central striker to latch onto long balls from basically everyone. And I'd instruct Jack not to make any sliding tackles.

Scezny
Sagna. Djouru. Kos. Clichy
Eboue. Fab4. Nasri. Gibbs
RVP
Theo
Subs: jack, Song and a good defender like ermmm....

Thats a terrible line up. Both Song and Wilshere are a must Start. It will be Song and Wilshere's job to keep Messi quiet. Eboue?! Lol. I'd rather have Bendtner in that position. Seriously.

[dbecks]

Arsenal the second highest earning club in England last year, not bad for a team that hasn't won a trophy in 5yearsBut sad for the fans who support a Football club rather than a business...

[RexxGrim]

But sad for the fans who support a Football club rather than a business...

So United is not a business, its run on fairy dust, hugs and kisses.

[SinghDude]

But sad for the fans who support a Football club rather than a business...

A football club IS a business.

[Randhir]

So United is not a business, its run on fairy dust, hugs, kisses and trophies.

Fixed. :)

[nivek]

Thats a terrible line up. Both Song and Wilshere are a must Start. It will be Song and Wilshere's job to keep Messi quiet. Eboue?! Lol. I'd rather have Bendtner in that position. Seriously.

+1 that line up scary

[dbecks]

So United is not a business, its run on fairy dust, hugs and kisses.Just highlighting the point that its sad that thats a highlight rather than you winning a trophy

[dbecks]

A football club IS a business.Yes but Football then business...

[Tarantula]

Yes but Football then business...

Tell that to Portsmouth and Leeds.

[SinghDude]

Real set to move for Fabregas



Real Madrid are preparing a 60-million-euro offer for Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas, a deal that could also see the transfer of France striker Karim Benzema to the Gunners, a Spanish sports newspaper said on Friday.

Fabregas, who has been in the sights of Real as well as rivals Barcelona for some time, is now the Madrid club’s “number one objective” for next season, the daily Marca said.

The 60-million-euro fee that the big-spending club is proposing is more than that offered by Barca for the 23-year-old midfielder, the paper said.

The out-of-favour Benzema could be transferred to the London club as part of the deal.

Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger won a battle to stop Fabregas joining Barcelona last year close-season even though the Gunners’ skipper had made it clear he wanted to return to the club where he started his career.

“I am a Barca supporter. I am a member (of a club) like my grandfather, my uncle, my cousin... I am Catalan,” he said last year.




Tabloid stuff..... ??? :whistle::whistle::whistle:

[Alan]

DIABY WANTS TO PLAY FOR BARCA
We don't have much to add to these quotes from the Frenchman: "At some point I would like to play for Barcelona or Real Madrid, but I would prefer to play for Barca, because I prefer their style."


:erm:

[RexxGrim]

:erm:

Shock, ohh the horror! Fine him, sell him put him in the reserves till his contract runs out.

Two months ago he wanted to win the Ballon d'or so we all know his got a healthy imagination.

Anyway saying you want to play for Barca or RMA one day is much better than saying for example, "I'm going to play for Chelsea, Cheers."

[Mach III]

Shock, ohh the horror! Fine him, sell him put him in the reserves till his contract runs out.

Two months ago he wanted to win the Ballon d'or so we all know his got a healthy imagination.

Anyway saying you want to play for Barca or RMA one day is much better than saying for example, "I'm going to play for Chelsea, Cheers."

I'm going to play for Chelsea, Cheers, is much better than saying for example; "pay me like Henry, and I'll play like Henry.." -Adebayor leaving to Man City

[Mach III]

At the Nou Camp (2nd leg), I'd play Walcott as the central striker to latch onto long balls from basically everyone. And I'd instruct Jack not to make any sliding tackles.

Scezny
Sagna. Djouru. Kos. Clichy
Eboue. Fab4. Nasri. Gibbs
RVP
Theo
Subs: jack, Song and a good defender like ermmm....

LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL

We will lose like 70 or 80 NIL

[Mach III]

So United is not a business, its run on fairy dust, hugs and kisses.

I think the point Dbecks was making was Arsenal related, nothing to do with other clubs.

Arsenal fans want trophies. Why even bring United into it?

[dbecks]

I think the point Dbecks was making was Arsenal related, nothing to do with other clubs.

Arsenal fans want trophies. Why even bring United into it?Yes, all good and well you make the bottom line , but I think the fans would take trophies over that..
Just saying...

[fishfly]

I think the point Dbecks was making was Arsenal related, nothing to do with other clubs.

Arsenal fans want trophies. Why even bring United into it?

Cos deep down inside they envy United and a secret United fan, so they lamblast all United fans to make themselves feel better :D

[Tarantula]

Cos deep down inside they envy United and a secret United fan, so they lamblast all United fans to make themselves feel better :D

What does "lamblasting" entail? Exploding mutton? Sounds great.

Yes, as Arsenal fans we are frustrated about our lack of trophies over the years given our strong financial position. What we also find frustrating are United fans who will continuosly bring up the 5 year trophy drought in an apparent "my daddy's gun is bigger than your daddy's gun" competition. Something these United fans cannot get tired of it seems.

Oh ja, and its also the Saturday morning mall shoppers donning their Avon/vodafone/AIG shirts, which they wear with such pride and swagger. God forbid you cross paths with such a man whilst wearing your preferred Premier League shirt. You will most certainly first get a stare down, an evil glare if you will. If you are lucky you may even get a s******, or, in Arsenal's case a comment about the lack of trophies. This generally is followed by all the United fans in the immediate vicinity, embracing in a bro hug, high five and slap each others butts whilst chanting "Roooooney" and "How ****ing cool is my hair gel".

Other than that we really think you United fans are good okes. Mostly. :D

[RexxGrim]

Cos deep down inside they envy United and a secret United fan, so they lamblast all United fans to make themselves feel better :D

Frustrating as it might been sometimes, I am very happy being an Arsenal supporter.

Do you were red or yellow/green on match days?

[MartyMarts]

On a side note, I had a thought the other day. Once Sir Alex steps down, Man U are in for a pretty rough time. I just can't see another manager getting the same results he does with that group of players.

Just my opinion tho.

[fishfly]

On a side note, I had a thought the other day. Once Sir Alex steps down, Man U are in for a pretty rough time. I just can't see another manager getting the same results he does with that group of players.

Just my opinion tho.

You forgetting the "Special One"

;)

[MartyMarts]

You forgetting the "Special One"

;)

Yeah it would make logical sense that he would step into Fergie's giant shoes but the "Special One" is good at dealing with superstar players, big egos and blank cheques. I'm not sure what he can do with a glut of mediocre players :p

[Randhir]

Yeah it would make logical sense that he would step into Fergie's giant shoes but the "Special One" is good at dealing with superstar players, big egos and blank cheques. I'm not sure what he can do with a glut of mediocre players :p

Arsene Wenger is 61. Which manager do you see stepping into his role and doing an equal/better job?

[MartyMarts]

Arsene Wenger is 61. Which manager do you see stepping into his role and doing an equal/better job?

Well, as I'm sure any EPL follower will know, Wenger has rather unique philosophies when it comes to football management. eg. He take kids and turns them in quality players. Similar to Fergie's extraordinary skill of taking what seems to be a mediocre looking player and making them work hard, play as a team player and be very effective on the pitch.

Right now, I can't think of any manager currently plying their trade being able to emulate Fergie OR Wenger. Personally I'd like to see Wenger stick around at Arsenal after he retires and back-room manage the club's long term plans and ambitions (financial stability etc.). If he did that and Arsenal brought in someone who could continue the club's (his) philosophy of entertaining/attractive/enjoyable (etc. etc.) football and not requiring large sums of money to do it, then I'm all for it.

[theratman]

Well, as I'm sure any EPL follower will know, Wenger has rather unique philosophies when it comes to football management. eg. He take kids and turns them in quality players. Similar to Fergie's extraordinary skill of taking what seems to be a mediocre looking player and making them work hard, play as a team player and be very effective on the pitch.

Right now, I can't think of any manager currently plying their trade being able to emulate Fergie OR Wenger. Personally I'd like to see Wenger stick around at Arsenal after he retires and back-room manage the club's long term plans and ambitions (financial stability etc.). If he did that and Arsenal brought in someone who could continue the club's (his) philosophy of entertaining/attractive/enjoyable (etc. etc.) football and not requiring large sums of money to do it, then I'm all for it.

Problem with wenger is he is not that tactical and he is hellva stubborn...

[MartyMarts]

Problem with wenger is he is not that tactical and he is hellva stubborn...

Yip, both are true to a certain degree. Hence my suggestion he stays on and focuses on the 'other' side of things and we bring in someone who can at least continue the 'pure' football approach.

[MR.C]

LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL

We will lose like 70 or 80 NIL

Think of Theo standing on the halfway line, when the ball comes, no-one can catch up with him and all he has to do is slot it into the net. Gibbs will cover defensive duties when clichy goes up, same with Eboue as cover when Sagna goes up. You wanna put Song and jack in, who you gonna take out.
Remember the first 15mins agains Barca at home last time around ? 1 long clearance and we 1-0 up. The pressure turns to Barca to defend and with away goals to our benefit, its a totally different ballgame.

[nivek]

If Mubarak can run a country at 80, AW can run a football club for another few years! :D

Well some good news, Verm back in 2 weeks, Nasri is back in training, just getting his fitness levels back, and Djourou will make Barca, as should Song.. relief :)

And Puyol ruled out of the first leg, hopefully something happens to Messi in the next few days too

[phiber]

Good win! Now to keep a clean sheet v barca :)

[mmmig]

I would set up the team like this:

Sagna,Kos,Djouru,Clichy
Song
Walcot,Wilsher,Fabregas,Rosicky/Nasri
Van Persie
On Wed against barca

[phiber]

Dont think Rosicky is fit to even make the bench, got injured on intl duty.

Would play Arsharvin our wide if Nasri isn't fit, think Nasri would make it to the bench, not starting line up this week.

[nivek]

I think we'll see the exact same team we saw against Wolves, with Nasri out, its our strongest line up

Poor Vela.. cant get a game at WBA either :(
Maybe Hodgeson will use him better

[mmmig]

There is hope for us yet, Barca drew against Sporting Gijon