Bleacher Report - Articles by czarsenal

Arsene Wenger and Arsenal Outclass Phil Brown and Hull City

czarsenal — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 23:45:47 -0400

Phil Brown showed his true colours Tuesday night at the Emirates, after his side bowed out of the FA Cup after a 2-1 defeat to Arsene Wenger's Arsenal.

Hull City took the lead early in the game, thanks to a Barmby fluke goal that ricocheted off Djourou's outstretched leg and arched in the air above Fabianski and in to the Arsenal net.

Hull were delighted, and set about piling their players behind the ball and doing everything they could to stall the game and slow Arsenal down.

One telling statistic shows the extent to which Hull went to try and ruin the game—six yellow cards, most for time wasting.

Arsene Wenger was furious and rightly so.

Via a fluke, Hull had snatched the lead and were in no mood to play football. Instead, they wanted to manipulate the game to the extremes of negativity. It's the sort of football no one wants to see and supporters and neutrals alike would find Hull's play to be timid, unworthy, cowardly and boring. One bright spot was Geovanni - he was dangerous every time he was on the ball, and looked to be up the singular task of getting his side another goal to make Arsenal's job that much tougher.

But Arsenal pressed on, especially in the second half after Bendtner and Nasri were brought on.

As the referee cautioned player after player, Hull was forced to actually play football rather than clutch and grab.

Arsenal players were able to break free, until the 74th minute when the pressure overcame their adversaries and Arsenal were rewarded; Bendtner controlled the ball inside the 18-yard box, managed to get the ball over to Arshavin, who drew players to him freeing up van Persie from just inside the penalty spot. He made no mistake.

The second Arsenal goal came with some controversy.

An Arsenal free kick saw players flood the box. The Hull keeper came out to punch the ball, but his strike at the ball wound up forcing the ball high in the air to the path of Gallas, who while in an offside position, was not receiving the ball from an Arsenal player.

The referee and his assistant rightly allowed the ensuing goal, and Arsenal went on to win the game.

Having dominated possession (70%+) and completing over twice as many passes as Hull, and having more than three times the corners, and just as many shots on target (Hull only managed two shots on target all game—goes to show how ineffective their offense was on the night), it was a fitting outcome.

After the final whistle had blown, Arsene Wenger could be seen looking in the direction of the Hull bench, but for some unknown reason, the Hull manager didn't seem interested in shaking hands. Wenger made his way down the tunnel, and players continued to celebrate and shake hands with their opposing numbers.

After the game, Phil Brown, Hull's Coach (without his trademark SpiceGirls microphone) was interviewed by Setanta Sports.

He roundly criticized the Arsenal fans in attendance for jeering his players for their stall tactics, blamed the referees for handing the game to Arsenal, and called Arsene Wenger and his team all sorts of names.

When shown the replay of the Gallas goal, he failed to see his own keeper's botched punch attempt at the ball, focusing on the positioning of the touchline ref and Gallas. He got even more incensed, citing that (and getting confused over who was captain for the day, and who the captain was of the squad) Cesc Fabregas had spat at the Hull assistant coach.

It was the stuff of a deranged idiot—Brown's eyes popping out of his head as he hurled his accusation. The commentator, dumbfounded, probed more, but Brown was too far gone in his mind to articulate further. The interview ended, with Brown visibly shaken.

Typical though. Many have felt that Hull have been "punching well above their weight" masquerading as a Premier League Club when they really are fodder for relegation back to the lower division.

Still it doesn't matter in the big scheme of things. Arsenal are off to face Chelsea at Wembley in one of the semifinals, and Hull are left further demoralized as their Cinderella season spirals further down the bowl.

Shame on Hull. Not the sort of stuff you like to see or hear, but then again, not every club can have the class of Arsenal, or the commanding respect that Arsene Wenger has garnered in the English Premier League and beyond.

Phil Brown would do well to remember who he is up against, and perhaps he should focus more on developing his teams play than lashing out at referees and blaming them and everyone else for the result that comes their way.

Arsenal-Roma: Arsenal Out-Gun Roma, Advance to Champions League Quarterfinals

czarsenal — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 23:27:04 -0400

True to Arsenal's form in the 2008-09 season, the young team left things late, made life more difficult for themselves, and needed something dramatic to prevail.

Heading into the Stadio Olimpico, Arsenal were one goal up on their Italian opponents, but after nine minutes Roma defender Juan levelled the score on aggregate.

Arsenal were rocked.

The team had come to snatch an away goal, however, it was AS Roma who seemed the more likely to score in a first half where both sides shared possession but neither could really break through.

Arsenal looked like a team on the road, attempting to spring something up front with long aerial passes and crosses that never seemed to produce anything.

The stalemate continued until the end of normal time, and, after two 15-minute periods of extra time, the teams were still level. So it went to penalty kicks.

Arsenal's new talisman of determination and perseverance, Eduardo, stepped up first but was denied when AS Roma keeper Doni guessed correctly. Eduardo looked disappointed that he didn't do better.

Pizarro was up first for Roma and promptly smashed the ball into the back of the net.

The home side looked like they were going to keep their heads and punish Arsenal for not ending things during regulation or extra time.

Arsenal Player of the Month Robin van Persie was up next for the Gunners and scored a nice side footed penalty. The Dutchman was cool as a cucumber.

Roma's Vucinic was next. He had been tipped as a likely goal threat for Roma in this game, but managed to scoff what must have been one of the worst penalty kicks in Champions League history. Almunia just needed to squat and let the ball hit him; the kick was that bad.

Theo Walcott stepped up to the spot. He managed to sneak his shot just under Doni, and was lucky to see his shot hit the back of the net. Arsenal were now in the driver's seat.

Baptista took his place. Almunia was obviously trying to rattle the former Gunner, however it was "The Beast" who roared home his shot. He was pumped and you sensed that things might yet turn around for Roma.

Nasri was next. He took his queue from Van Persie and kept his composure to calmly strike the ball into the back of the net. Arsenal were starting to look like master penalty takers.

Montella, who was a late substitute in the game because of this spot kick prowess, took his turn and stroked his shot into the bottom corner. Roma were hanging on.

Young Denilson was next. Not known for finding the net, the youngster drove his shot down the middle, baffling Doni.

The Gunners were hitting the target again and again!

AS Roma Captain Totti was next. If he missed, Arsenal were through, but he was not going to be the goat on this night.

So the affair moved on to sudden death. The first team to miss were done.

Toure for Arsenal. Fast run up and belts it home. A nice penalty. His movement might have upset Doni, who was on his toes to try to guess which way Toure was going to go.

Aquilani for Roma. He makes no mistake. This is turning out to be a real slugfest, with each team bulging the old onion bag again and again.

More defenders come up to the spot, with Sagna next in line. Another nicely taken penalty.

The Gunners seemed so cool and composed, like it was just another day at the office at the training ground.

Riise took his turn for Roma, and powered his shot into the net.

Diaby for Arsenal—boom, into the net. It is like each Arsenal penalty is being fired from a quick fire pistol.

And so it comes to Roma's Tonetto.

When will this end? Which side will crack under pressure?

Whose calm nerves will keep their team's European hopes alive?

Who will be immortalized forever—a keeper with a fine save, or an outfield player with a poor shot or complete miss?!

Tonetto misses completely. Arsenal celebrate, run over to their traveling fans, and book their place in the quarterfinals.

Arsenal showed amazing composure and some textbook penalty taking. Hopefully they will learn from this game that if they leave things too late, fortune may not shine so brightly on their young faces.

However, credit where it is due; the marksmanship and mental strength were obvious, and Arsenal can claim yet another Italian scalp in their European exploits.

Jekyll And Hyde: The Real Arsenal Comes Out To Beat Roma at The Emirates

czarsenal — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:42:40 -0500

A dominant Arsenal FC triumphed over a haggard and sub-par AS Roma side at the Emirates tonight in the first leg of their final-16 knock-out round clash.

Applying pressure from the first whistle, Arsenal displayed much of the pace, incisive passing, determination, and vision that has been sorely lacking in their domestic campaign.

The pressure mounted to a point, and in the 37th minute, Robin VanPersie was brought down in the box and awarded a penalty.

He cooly stroked the ball in to the corner of the net to give Arsenal a deserved lead.

Arsenal should of had more goals, with Bendtner missing a couple of plumb changes as Arsenal continued to deluge Roma with pace, precision, and control.

As Arsenal fans had hoped, the central midfield pairing of Denilson and Song was not the starting configuration, with Diaby featuring as the driving force behind much of Arsenal's play.

However, in the 62nd minute, Diaby was replaced by Song through injury.

In the 65th, Vela came on to replace Bendtner, who was struggling to find the net despite his teammates providing him with clear chances to score.

Roma looked very tired and out of sorts for most of the match.

The Serie A side received many yellow cards for late challenges that seemed the only method that could slow Arsenal down.

One mistake almost cost Roma another goal. A missed header clearance provided Eboue with an clear open shot on goal, however the beleaguered Arsenal player muddled his chance and missed the net entirely. He was replaced by Aaron Ramsey in the 82nd minute.

So, for the most part, we saw the familiar Arsenal show up today in their Champions League fixture.

Dominant, incisive, quick, and flowing. However, we did see familiar signs of mediocrity that has plagued this side in the 2008-2009 campaign. The lack of quality finishing by Bendtner, the lack of composure in Eboue, and injuries to bright sparks like Diaby.

At odd times, Arsenal also failed to attack the box when a well timed and placed cross was being delivered, something the team has been criticized for a lot lately.

The back line of Sagna, Toure, Gallas, and Clichy defended high, and well.

Roma never really broke through with any real purpose, with most of the offensive action happening in Roma's half of the pitch.

Still, Arsenal secured a deserved victory, and are now in the driver's seat heading in to the second leg to be played in Rome.

If the Gunners can put in this kind of performance for the return leg in two weeks, they will surely be through to the next round.

FC Barcelona Rumoured Ready To Offer $20M for Arsenal's Emmanuel Eboué

czarsenal — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 17:10:05 -0500

Unnamed sources and English translations of El Mundo Deportivo report that FC Barcelona are looking at Arsenal midfielder/defender Emmanuel Eboué as a potential transfer target.

Sources commented that since Cesc Fabregas continues to rebuke any and all claims that he is linked in any way with a return to La Blaugrana, the Camp Nou giants have turned their attention to the next best thing.

"We are very much interested in Emmanuel. People think we were talking about Emmanuel Adebayor, but it's Emmanuel Eboué we really like. His obvious commitment to winning was shown in his display in the North London Derby, where he was sent off after making a committed tackle on Modric exemplifies this."

"We will not be hoodwinked by Arsenal again, after they sold us that Hleb fellow."

"Also, we will not be embarrassed by having players, like Henry, get all choked up about their love for Arsenal."

"We feel that if Arsenal fans don't want Eboue, and they make a mockery of his name when he does not play well; we will take him. Our fans are much more forgiving, and we never whistle or jeer our players"

Eboué was not available for comment. Arsene Wenger is reported to be interested in discussing terms with Barcelona. Sources close to the story report: "Arsene values quality, commitment, and leadership. Eboué has not shown that as of late, and so, we feel that Arsene is already targeting a summer exit for Eboué."

News of the World has not confirmed or denied the story. Pundits agree that any report they publish about this, or any article on Goal.com, must be a sure sign that this is nothing more than a fantasy/humour post on Bleacher Report.

Apologies Are Not Enough: Eboue Should Fear His Future at Arsenal

czarsenal — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 23:58:23 -0500

After receiving a second yellow card for kicking out at Tottenham's Luka Modrić in Sunday's North London Derby clash, Emmanuel Eboue has apologized to his team mates, Arsenal fans, and presumably, coach Arsene Wenger, for not controlling himself.

The apology, which seems heartfelt and full off regret, also shows Eboue reflecting upon the impact that the referee's decision had on his team mates, his side's fortune's in the game, and Arsenal's desire to win over their fiercest rivals.

The apology ends with Eboue stating "I know have to control myself [on the pitch] but I did not want to let Tottenham win. I just wanted to give my best."

Eboue is no stranger to Arsenal fans, who riled the player back in December after he was substituted in for Samir Nasri in a home game against Wigan. Eboue, coming back from injury, was having a tough time getting his rhythm; with many of his passes going astray.

At one defining moment, Eboue took the ball off of his own team mate in a bizarre moment of madness. As fans lost their own nerve, and started to loudly boo the player and call out to the Arsenal coach, Eboue was quickly substituted by Arsene Wenger and was visibly upset at the harsh manner that he was criticized by the fans.

He should expect harsher feedback now.

After being bright and inventive early on in the match, the old Eboue surfaced; his dramatic posturing and constant bickering at the referee became too much, and after three warnings, he was booked for dissent. Later on, a touchline clash with Modrić saw Eboue, seemingly smug that Modrić was being carded by the referee for his part in the melee, receive a yellow card himself, his second, and then shocked at the turn of events.

What did he think? Did he think the referee didn't see him kick out (anyone who remembers David Beckham being sent off for England for doing something similar will know that referees detest players taking disciplinary actions in to their own hands) at the Tottenham player. Did he think that his earlier booking didn't place him foremost in the referee's mind as a player to watch out for as being a "loose cannon"?

In Arsene's post game press conference at White Hart Lane, the Arsenal manager commented on the disallowed goal that was called back on an apparent foul on Spurs' Johnathan Woodgate, but the agitation about Eboue was obvious. When asked if he had spoken to the player about how he felt, the manager answered that he had, but made the comment that Arsenal keep such things behind closed doors.

No doubt Wenger was furious at Eboue, for this is not the only time Eboue's petulance and dramatic immaturity has cost him and his side in a match. In March 2007, an EPL Disciplinary Commission proved a charge of violent conduct against the Arsenal midfielder for striking Wayne Bridge during an incident towards the end of the Carling Cup Final and handed him a a three-match suspension.

This time around, Eboue may face league discipline again, especially in light that City's Sean Wright Philips has been suspended for his own retaliatory actions the weekend prior.

In terms of impact to the derby match, Arsenal did create some good chances despite being 10 men, and there was some clear signs that had the team been full strength, they might have gotten all three points. As it was, being forced to defend away from home became the order of the day, and Arsenal managed to come away with a point.

Sitting fifth in the League, Arsene Wenger now has to prepare new signing Andrey Arshavin faster than he would of liked, given the fact that Arsenal's options on the right hand side have a larger dent in them—with Walcott still out due to a shoulder injury.

As far as Eboue is concerned, its one thing to have a poor performance in the game (many of his passes went astray, apart from his inventiveness in finding space to create chances); it's another thing to loose your nerve and get sent off for completely avoidable actions.

It's the kind of thing you expect from a schoolboy or child; getting frustrated to the point of taking matters in to your own hands. Perhaps he was upset at the disallowed goal, but plainly, there is absolutely no excuse for how he acted.

We have seen Arsene Wenger act swiftly this season, stripping William Gallas of the captain's armband after it was clear he was not up to the task. For Eboue, it is clear that he cannot handle the pressure at the highest level, and that is not something you can fix if the player himself doesn't have the mental toughness or emotional intelligence to control.

As Arsenal become a stronger side with player's coming back from injury, and the obvious role that Arshavin will be playing in an Arsenal team that must start scoring more goals in games to help ensure that they take away full points so they can start climbing the table in to a comfortable Champions League spot, the future role for Eboue becomes uncertain.

It is very hard for any player, who has had repeated "control" issues that has impacted his team mates, to come up with supporting evidence that he can and will change for the better. Given Eboue's penchant for cracking under pressure, I can only presume that he is too much of a risk for Arsene to put any more faith in, and so, I think his future with Arsenal, if it didn't already have a host of doubts about it, now looks certain to come to be coming to an end.

No Stevie Gerrard For Three Weeks, Can Liverpool Survive?

czarsenal — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 13:16:41 -0500

Much has been said about Liverpool's reliance on Steven Gerrard, their star midfielder, who has been instrumental in the fortunes of the Anfield giants.

The 28-year-old midfielder limped off the field 16 minutes into Wednesday's fourth-round replay against Everton at Goodison Park. He is now doubtful for the club's next two Premier League games against Portsmouth and Manchester City.

Gerrard may also miss the first leg of the next round in the Champions League against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Feb. 25.

With reports that "Captain Courageous" will be out up to three weeks due to the nature of the hamstring tear he suffered, many are wondering how Liverpool will cope.

Gerrard is Liverpool's record goal scorer in Europe and has played through pain before, with both a hairline toe fracture and groin injury (which he later had surgery on) not keeping him on the side.

But this injury is different, and many are pointing to the loss of Everton as a sign of how poorly Liverpool plays without their talisman skipper.

Although earlier reports put his absence at six to eight weeks, new information indicates the period may be much less.

But still, can Liverpool cope? As Steve McManaman has pointed out:

"Liverpool haven’t got an awful lot of creative players right now. All the fans are saying they need another right midfielder, another left midfielder...but certainly when Stevie G goes off – he’s the one real creative player they’ve got."

So does this spell certain doom for Liverpool in the meantime, or can they somehow cope? If so, who will step up to help fill the void in the meantime?

As an Arsenal supporter, I know first hand the impact that losing your skipper and main creative playmaker can have. While Arsenal have not lost a league game, while Fabregas has been out, can Liverpool keep pace with Manchester United in their race for the EPL title?

What People Don't Get About Arsenal

czarsenal — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 15:53:28 -0500

Now that the Arshavin transfer saga is over, I think it's a good time to stop, sit back, reflect, and digest everything that went on.

There are more than enough reports out there recapping the whole ordeal.

But one of my favourite blogs out there was a full quote from the Arsenal Supporters Trust that I thought worthy of repeating here, to help other people understand exactly why Arsenal is a special club, supported by people who, collectively, look upon football in a slightly different manner than their counterparts elsewhere.

I quote:

“Arsenal deserve credit for keeping their nerve and not having paid over the odds for Arshavin. We must remember that Zenit wanted £30m last summer and £20m at Christmas. They have ended up with less than £15m. It amazes me that some supporters have suggested that we should have given up another £5million just to get it over with.

Arsenal’s money is actually the supporter’s money. Pay over the odds now and there is less for the new contract for Robin Van Persie or a need to raise ticket prices. At the AST we believe the Board have to look after the finances as custodians. That means carefully spending only what we can afford.

Arsenal’s approach is very consistent. They never comment on transfer speculation. It might be frustrating for some but it is right. If the dignify the made up stories by commenting it only inflates them, if they comment on genuine targets it makes the chances of landing the transfer harder to achieve.

Part of the problem is that the on-line media and blog sites give agents the platform to try and manipulate transfers. And the media have a herd like mentality. So when Sky Sports News got it wrong yesterday, they all followed. Except for the AST who stuck by our understanding that the transfer was in its final stages,
and would be completed.

It is an encouraging start for Ivan Gazidis. One target from Arsene, one player secured. Let us hope it is the first of a successful track record.”

Hear hear. The Club, the Manager, the Board, the Supporters Trust, and true fans should all be very proud of themselves. We got our man, we got him at the price we wanted, and we didn't compromise our ethics, our class, our style, or our beliefs in the process.

Arsenal have always regarded themselves as having a bit of class. Arsenal, especially under Arsene's reign, have usually played with a bit of style and panache. Arsenal, as a club, pride themselves on being financially prudent; not overspending on players, and using their revenue sources wisely and properly to support a proper business.

Arsenal’s money is actually the supporter’s money. Arsenal Football Club are Gooner's football club.

We have much to be proud of. Yes, these might be trying and frustrating times, but we haven't lost our minds, mortgaged our futures, or stepped too far in to the circus that is modern day football media.

There is only one thing to say now. C'MON YOU REDS!

Hammers Hold Gunners at Bay at the Emirates

czarsenal — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 16:09:13 -0500

A blustery day at the Emirates saw Zola's Hammers come in to town with defense on their mind, and defend they did. Arsenal applied pressure all afternoon, but the Hammers defense would not be denied on this day. West Ham came for a point away from home, and they got it.

Arsenal on the other hand produced a lot of chances, with many opportunities for crosses in to the box for Adebayor and Bendtner to get to. However, the crosses were either too high, too far, or off the mark to be effective.

With Vela coming in in place of Eboue, there was hope to see the Gunners open up the West Ham defense. However, the 4-3-3 formation was not working. Nasri seemed to disappear off the pitch as Vela replaced him on the left flank, and Bendtner also seemed ineffective by not being the front striker.

He was later replaced by Van Persie, but the result was still the same. Arsenal missed the mark as much as they got a shot on goal, but Green was never troubled. The brightest point came when Toure flicked an over shoulder shot at the Hammers goal, with Collins clearing off the line.

After 94 minutes, the home crowd were not impressed. The only solace came from knowing the Villa had also tied their game as well.

Fan talk quickly turned to Arshavin, and you could see from today's game the kind of difference he could of made. Arsenal's running at players was fairly poor, and the passing was less than adequate. Balls were delivered at players feet with their back to the goal, and there were hardly any balls played behind the Hammers back line for players to run on to.

We could see how, from this game, Arsene does have a point about needing a player like Arshavin. Fans still have a point about needing a good solid central defensive pairing, like West Ham does.

Because on this day, good defending, prevailed.

If You Could Ask Wenger One Question, What Would It Be?

czarsenal — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 15:31:26 -0500

Rather than produce my usual, long winded spiel, I'll keep it short.

Let's say you are at a dinner party, armed with a hidden microphone. Or you are at a press conference, with lots of people from the press around you, and you get the chance to ask Arsene Wenger one or two questions?

What would you ask him? I've thought about this situation, and here is my question:

Arsene, in 2008 you talked a lot about 'competition' for places. How are Diaby, Song, Denilson and Eboue benefiting from this necessary 'survival of the fittest' when there is no competition for them in the squad?

When he replies, as expected, saying that they have had to compete for their places, I'd ask him:

If you had brought in some new transfers for them to compete with NOW, rather than be stuck with having to play these midfielders, week in week out, because your preferred player was injured, would that not have been better for the club?

I would then expect to be hit in the neck by a poisonous blow dart as Arsene calls out,

"Anyone else have any questions?"

But seriously, what would you ask the man?

Andrei Arshavin Holding Out for Alisher Usmanov-Promised Takeover at Arsenal

czarsenal — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 14:41:08 -0500

Reports out of Russia and England today indicate that Andrei Arshavin is holding out for a surprise takeover of Arsenal FC PLC by Alisher Usmanov, who presently is a minority shareholder.

Sources close to the story say that with the devalued British Pound, and Gazprom experiencing richer profits by supplying most of Europe with home heating fuel, Usmanov is making a pitch to Arsenal Board members to offload their shares. During such difficult financial times, the Board, largely made up of old men who must try to fund their old age pension, might find the price just too good to pass up.

Also embroiled in the story is an advertising deal seeing Usmanov's Gazprom paying exactly $0.01 US dollars for the naming rights to Arsenal Stadium, and also changing the club's kit sponsors to Gazprom. Due to naming rights issues in the UK, however, the company would have to go by the name GAZZZZZ.

Observers noted that Arshavin is currently in the Middle East, trying to detract those from the UAE that are involved in Arsenal, and who likely wish they too could own a club from Manchester, by making owl faces and shushing anyone who asks him a question.

Arsene Wenger was not available for comment and would not answer any questions about the story because he was focused on the next game and the difficult decision of whether to start Eboue on the wing, or leave him on the bench and ask one of his new singings (Fabregas, Rosicky, Walcott, Eduardo) to just stand on the pitch (or sit, whichever) in an effort to achieve a better pass-completion and disciplinary record.

Fans have been left on the sidelines throughout January's transfer window. Frustrated with the saga, and the apparent disregard for central defense and central midfield issues that should be addressed, many have turned to writing complete bollocks in order to keep their mind occupied on something other than the maddening antics of their beloved Gunners.

More on this and other loads of bollocks as people make things up as they go along.

Boring Boring Arsenal Survive Cardiff

czarsenal — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 14:01:55 -0500

Toothless Arsenal survive an up-tempo game against Cardiff, but it could of been much worse. Had it not been for Cardiff missing their chances, Arsenal would of likely been knocked out of the FA Cup.

Arsene Wenger made five changes to his squad; putting Fabianski in goal, and placing Gibbs in defense for the suspended Clichy. Djourou was once again paired with Toure in the center of defense, and Sagna took his usual place at right back.

The midfield consisted of Eboue on the right, Song, Ramsey (facing his former club), and Nasri on the left. Van Persie was joined with Bendtner up front.

Almunia was on the bench, along with Vela (who was not named as a sub as he appeared ill in the warm-up), Gallas, Whilshere, Denilson and Diaby.

Cardiff dominated the first 20 minutes of the game, missing a couple of early chances, and missing a couple more around the 20 minute mark. You got the feeling that Cardiff were going to score on the attack, and any chance Arsenal were going to have would come on the counter.

Rather than get in to a play by play, let's focus on reviewing the player performances.

Goal

Lukasz Fabianski had a strong game in goal, and what on target shots Cardiff did have, he was ready and well positioned. He also tried his best to mount the counter attack, with several long direct throws to the midfield to help spring some form of offensive. He looked bright, energetic and in command.

Defense

Bacary Sagna had a fairly good game, along with Johan Djourou, Kolo Toure and Kieran Gibbs. Too often though Tour and Djourou would allow the Cardiff players to get space for a shot, rather than close them down. It looked a bit like the Arsenal back four were holding something back, rather than going all out. There were also very few overlapping runs and crosses coming from the wing-backs.

Midfield

One word. Dreadful. Emmanuel Eboue seems more and more out of place with the team, and he got booked (rightly so) for simulation in trying to win a penalty. His passing was without purpose, and he had a tendency to run towards the middle of the park, instead of trying to widen out the pitch and draw corners. Baffling. He was substituted in the 67th minute, and seemed rightly displeased with his performance.

Not sure what kind of backside kicking he needs though to smarten up.

Alex Song was OK, but by 'ok' I mean "he didn't cost us a goal". He was just, well, "there". Same could be said for Aaron Ramsey, who seemed pretty ineffective and poorly matched with his midfield brethren. He was taken off in the 60th minute.

Samir Nasri should be made to practice taking shots with his weaker foot, as the time he spent setting himself up for a right footed shot allowed the Cardiff keeper to get in to position to stop which should of been a sure goal.

Forwards

Robin Van Persie tried his best to cope with the inadequacy around him, and was the brightest of the attacking players. Nicklas Bendtner was true to form, and looks like he is best suited to be a "super sub" rather than starting striker.

Substitute Jack Wilshere came on too late to be any consequence in turning around the fortunes of the club, and Emmanuel Adebayor will rue missing a sitter. Diaby was laughable and ineffective, and spent most of this time on the grass. How a man his size can be so weak is beyond me. He is NOT anything like Viera.

Overall, fairly weak away performance from the team. I cynically thought that Arsene was playing it safe to rest up before the EPL match in only a couple of days. Surely he will be happy with a rematch being played at the Emirates.

And he surely must be happy that he has drawn a home fixture in the next round against either West Brom or Burnley (can anyone say 'revenge'?) should Arsenal succeed against Cardiff in February's fixture.

Still, expected more, and got less. Kind of like Arsenal's 2008/2009 campaign thus far.

Arsenal Makes the World's "10 Most Valuable Sports Teams" List

czarsenal — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 10:26:54 -0500

Forbes magazine has released a top 10 list of the most valuable sports franchises in the world. While it is mostly made up of American gridiron Football (NFL) and American Baseball (MLB) teams, there are three European association football teams in there, and Arsenal is one of them.

Manchester United (EPL): $1.8 billion
Dallas Cowboys (NFL): $1.6 billion
Washington Redskins (NFL): $1.5 billion
New England Patriots (NFL): $1.32 billion
New York Yankees (MLB): $1.3 billion
Real Madrid (La Liga): $1.29 billion
Arsenal (EPL): $1.2 billion
New York Giants (NFL): $1.18 billion
New York Jets (NFL): $1.17 billion
Houston Texans (NFL): $1.17 billion

The Forbes article states that Arsenal took in $329 million in revenue last year—also mentioning the pricing of club level seats and private boxes at Emirates Stadium ,and the value of the stadium naming rights.

Television revenue, advertising sponsorship, fan merchandising, and revenue-producing assets like stadiums and match day receipts are fueling these valuations.

Clearly, the earning power of these clubs is very healthy, which bodes well for any spending plans that they have. Who needs billionaire owners when you generate that much economic wealth on your own?

Ok, that might make Manchester United a bit of a contradiction, but it bodes well for Arsenal's business model.

Now Arsenal needs the on-pitch performance to match such lofty heights.

Spurs New Stadium: Concrete Plans or Field of Dreams?

czarsenal — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:34:32 -0500

Spurs revealed images of a proposed new 60,000-seat stadium at their AGM on Monday.

Hailing it as a "large-scale development incorporating leisure facilities, public space, and housing along with state-of-the-art facilities," the proposed new ground would be situated near White Hart Lane.

Construction would be completed via two phases; the first part would see the new stadium built around the existing one during the football season, with the rest completed during the summer break.

Spurs management would not commit to a timeline for their stadium plans, but did say that they would be making planning applications in the New Year. They also conceded, however, that the formal urban planning process is lengthy.

Considering the current banking climate, and the current financial form of the club against rivals Arsenal (who themselves have only just completed a similar stadium project to much acclamation and project management success), does any supporter expect these plans to actually amount to any tangible result in the next two years? Or is the current euphoria at the club under new coach Redknapp bleeding into other areas of fancy?

I for one would love to see Spurs get a new ground, but I just don't know how realistic these plans are. I'm only saying this when I consider the financial performance of Arsenal and their recent rise up the standings of top-money earners and makers of the top clubs in Europe.

Spurs are 10th in the so called "money league" with £103.1m, while Arsenal are now fifth with an annual revenue of £177.6m. Perhaps eyeing how much Arsenal generates on match-day revenue at their new home has caught Spurs' attention.

But Arsenal regularly competes in the Champions League, and that was a big contributing factor in helping to fuel the development plans ahead of them being realized. Do the Spurs realistically think that they can also complete a similar stadium plan without reaching such a plateau, or is this also part of their dreaming?

No Truer Words Were Ever Spoken

czarsenal — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 01:49:42 -0500

I was bemused when I first saw the headline quote on Arsenal.com quoting Le Boss after the loss to Porto Wednesday night.

As I read more of the club's synopsis of the Manager's post game press conference, I kept going back to the quote, and kept thinking how true it seems, that the team has lost some balls where they cannot afford to.

Yes, it might seem like an immature and crass statement, and I don't want to provide our rivals any more ammunition than they already have for devising chants and jeers, but much of what I see lacking in Wenger's current team I think can be summed up in that one sentence.

We've lost that bit of steel we had at the heart of our defence in the Invincibles. Perhaps Wenger thought the razzle-dazzle of attacking football would be enough to sustain us and bring us trophies, but it clearly hasn't turned out like that.

Clichy and Sagna are the only bright spots when it comes to the defensive aspects of our game, but all too often their team mates let them down, by failing to track back and commit to tackling and defending.

Witness how often Arsenal have been scored against this season because of a defensive lapse in judgement, or the unwillingness of a player to do what is necessary to win the ball or halt an opposing player.

It has happened far too much, and its little surprise that Arsenal are labelled as being soft or lacking in fighting spirit regardless of the opposition.

To end on a positive note, look at our best performances this season, and you'll see a balance between attack and defense, with each player displaying the requisite determination to win the ball in every part of the pitch.

We don't seem to lack the gumption or ability to score some spectacular goals, but I think we need to reclaim our cojones defensively—we've been playing too long without them.

Premiership Predictions: Round 15

czarsenal — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 07:02:45 -0500

Well, last week was interesting. I recorded a resounding 2/10 getting my predictions for Stoke and Tottenham correct! Hurrah! My worst week yet, but I'm still in the 99th percentile on Facebook's Premier League Picks, and there is a long way to go in the season.

Here's hoping this week's pics will pan out a bit better, eh?

Aston Villa vs Fulham at Villa Park
Having held Liverpool to a goalless draw last week, I'm almost tempted to pick them to come away with something special against the Villains. Almost. However, Villa are also coming off of a draw against a "Big Four" club.

Villa have only lost once at home this season, and Fulham have only won once away from home this season. Don't expect Villa's recent form to falter, but it might be close. Still, Villa to win at home just feels right to me.

Middlesbrough vs Newcastle United at The Riverside Stadium
Newcastle also haven't won a game away from home thus far, and while Middlesbrough have been a hot/cold team in recent form, I don't expect them to lose to Newcastle.

I don't expect Newcastle to win either. Mido is coming back for the home side, while Viduka might play a part for Newcastle. Seems a pretty fair trade off. Draw it is!

Stoke City vs Hull City at Britannia Stadium
Stoke have a good home form as of late, but they are coming up against a Hull side that has only lost once on the road this season.

Fuller is set to return for Stoke, but I keep thinking Hull are due to snap their recent win-less streak, and this just might be the game in which they do it.

Hull have scored more goals on the road than any other EPL club except for Chelsea. I expect them to bag enough to beat Stoke this Saturday. Hull it is.

Sunderland vs Bolton Wanderers at Stadium of Light
Two points separate these clubs in the EPL standings. I don't expect Sunderland's home defeat trend to end in order to hand Roy Keane his 100th win as manager.

Bolton's recent form is just that much better than Sunderland's, and Bolton have a pretty full squad heading in to this game. On the other hand, Sunderland have too many things going against them for me to pick them winning at home. Bolton's my pick.

Wigan Athletic vs West Bromwich Albion at JJB Stadium
Playing the team at the bottom of the table who have not won a game since I don't know when and who have scored only twice away from home, even Wigan must like their chances.

And having dispatched Everton in their last match, confidence must be high. Wigan it is.

Manchester City vs Manchester United at City of Mcr. Stadium
The local derbies of all local derbies. City are spotty at home, and I don't see them pulling it off against the defending champions, not this time. Ireland has been impressive, but I don't think it will be enough.

This could be a real wide-open slug fest, just like the ManU Arsenal game was. But in that game, ManU missed some real golden opportunities that I don't see them missing in this derby. United should end their poor form against local rivals come Sunday. Devils are my pick.

Portsmouth vs Blackburn Rovers at Fratton Park
Tony Adams' side shouldn't be too discouraged about their recent result against AC Milan. They showed real power in that game, but ultimately it was Milan's determination that resulted in a draw.

Contrast that to Ince's Rovers, whose recent form is pretty bleak, two points out of the last six games. I think its time for Adam's first home win. Pompey at home for the win!

Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton at White Hart Lane
Spurs at home vs an Everton squad who were upset last week by Wigan. Too many injuries are going to make it really hard on Everton, and I just can't see them pulling it off against a Spurs revival. Spurs for the win.

Chelsea vs Arsenal at Stamford Bridge
The game of Round 15. Can Chelsea stabilize their home form against an Arsenal team with a lot to prove and a lot to lose? Arsenal usually do well against top clubs.

There is a lot of analysis and talk out there, which I'm not going to add to here. It will be an interesting game, but I wouldn't be a Gooner if I didn't pick my team to win. C'mon Arsenal!

Liverpool vs West Ham United at Anfield
OK, I'm running out of steam. If Gerrard is fit, I expect Liverpool to win. Liverpool have twice as many points as West Ham so far this season, and their home form is almost perfect; just two draws.

Gerrard is fit, the last I checked, so, there you have it. Scouser victory!

And there you have it!

Premiership Predictions: Round 14

czarsenal — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:58:31 -0500

I'm in my second year of playing Premier League Picks on Facebook, and now that I have cracked the top 1,000 for a while (Overall Rank: 428/ 254737) I feel confident enough in my selections to actually claim them as predictions!

Witness agooner's (from GoonerTV [ http://www.justin.tv/agooner ] Premiership Predictions for Round 14 of the 2008/2009 English Premier League season. I will only predict a win lose or draw - I'm no where good enough to predict the final scoreline ;-)

Chelsea vs Newcastle United - Stamford Bridge
I fully expect Chelsea to expand their four game winning streak and get full points at home against a Newcastle team that has not recorded a win away from home so far this season.

Liverpool vs Fulham - Anfield
Although both teams are on a two game winning streak, lets see...Liverpool at home. No brainer. Liverpool have won twice as many games this season as Fulham. Liverpool it is then.

Manchester City vs Arsenal - City of Mcr. Stadium
Can City turn things around at home against a self-imploding Arsenal? Make what you want about Arsenal's form against Villa, but City are sporadic at home this season. Historically speaking, Arsenal have won eight out of the last nine matches at City, who have lost more matches and dropped more points to Arsenal than to any other club in the Premier League. Gunners to win.

Middlesbrough vs Bolton Wanderers - The Riverside Stadium
Bolton are coming off a home defeat to Liverpool, while Middlesborough managed a draw against a big, strong Everton side. I expect Middlesbrough to build upon that game and defeat the physical presence of Bolton on their home turf.

Portsmouth vs Hull City - Fratton Park
I expect Pompey to respond to Tony Adams geeing them up for a home match against Hull. Adams realizes the importance of this match against a club three points ahead of them in the standings. Hulls recent form make them ripe for the pickings.

Stoke City vs West Bromwich Albion - Britannia Stadium
The meeting between two promoted clubs sees a Stoke side licking their wounds after a Manchester United thrashing, while WBA try to lift themselves up off the bottom of the table. All of Stoke's wins have come at home so far this season, while WBA have only managed 2 goals on the road at this point in the season. Stoke to rebound and put a smile back on the face of their fans with a home win.

Aston Villa vs Manchester United - Villa Park
Despite the kind words directed towards Villa by Sir Alex after their defeat of Arsenal at home, I fully expect Manchester United to put the pressure on Chelsea and Liverpool via an away win. Villa have lost more matches and dropped more points and conceded more goals to Manchester United than to any other club in the Barclays Premier League. Enough said.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Blackburn Rovers - White Hart Lane
The Redknapp revival continues. Rovers have not won a game in their last 6 matches. Time for Spurs the leapfrog their bottom table counterparts and try and march up the table again. Spurs to win, but only just.

Sunderland vs West Ham United - Stadium of Light
In similar fashion, WestHam have not won a game in their last seven outings. Sunderland are coming off a win against Blackburn, and Roy Keane will be motivated to get his team on the right path. Sunderland to record a home win.

Wigan Athletic vs Everton - JJB Stadium
The Monday fixture features Wigan hosting Everton. Everton are currently on a good unbeaten run, while Wigan are not exactly impressive at home this season. The last time Wigan beat Everton was back in 2005. Too much of Wigan's firepower is out due to injury. Nevertheless, this is my chance to pick a draw for this round, so there it be; 1 point each.

There you have it!

Sergi Busquets: Is He Just What Fabregas is Looking For?

czarsenal — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 09:40:53 -0500

I know its not even December yet, but what the hell.

I was trolling around the Internet and Premiershiplatest.com had an interesting article looking at Barcelona 'B' team player Sergi Busquets Burgos. He's tall (6 feet and 2.8 inches), and is considered a "very complete midfielder renowned for his intelligence on the field" according to Barcelona's own website.

A solid central defensive midfielder, he has come up through the Barca youth ranks (much like Cesc) and looks poised to make an impact on the first team.

Having been given a chance in the Barca first-team by coach Pep Guardiola, who coached the young midfielder last season in the Barcelona B side, his performance has been solid enough to earn him a place in the Spanish Under-21 side.

The player's current contract runs out in the summer. Could Barcelona be persuaded to cash in on the player by selling him in the January transfer window to the Gunners, who we know recognize the weakness they have in the position, and must be very keen to help Cesc improve his game by having a fellow ex-Barca prodigy and fellow countryman support him in midfield in much the same manner that his friend Mathieu Flamini did?

Could Burgos follow in the footsteps of Merida and Fabregas from the Camp Nou to the Emirates? Arsenal fans keen to see the issues in defensive midfield in support of Cesc properly dealt with, and the January transfer window seems as good a time as any for Arsene to make his move and instill more faith on another youth prospect.

The fact that he might be cup tied in the Champions League should not deter Arsene. Arsenal don't appear to have the same issue in Europe as they do at home in the Premiership, where teams deploy tactics meant to snuff out the pretty passing play and wait for a chance on the counter attack.

A player like Burgos could help bring the attack along properly from defence, and, snuff out the counter-attack of these clubs before it gets to the all too brittle final back four of Arsenal.

Watching Fabregas this season he seems a bit off his game—not confident enough in the midfield support around him to shine as he usually does. At this stage, its as good an option as any I can see for the club at the moment, and can not only help turn around Arsenal's domestic prospects, but also the performance of their coveted play-making maestro.