Bleacher Report - Articles by Uche Ugorji

Arsharvin Finally Has a Convincing Showing

Uche Ugorji — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 06:35:10 -0500

In the past couple of games my friends and I have continuously picked on the performance of the Little Russian Maestro. I have found it more interesting to imagine if(just like i am listening to Rihanna's single, Russian Roulette!!), this man of amazing abilities is playing that dangerous game.

My argument is so often harped on his complacency which can be frustrating at times, especially knowing his abilities and God-given talent. In the past five games or so, he has been missing in games more times than his smile has come to surface. He loses the ball as often as Diaby, gives up on the tackle as often as, Diaby, makes the wrong decision in front of goal as often as(not Diaby again!!!), Eboue!!!!!! For someone with the all but the small matter of imposing physical presence, and i can mention a load of what this man can do, without a bit of a worry about how to make my English sound so British!!!!

Rarely would you find a player who can hold-up the ball with easy(Zidane), control the ball without a sniff of an effort(Bergkamp), dribble without considering the implication on who he does it to(JayJay Okocha), shoot without both feet as accurately(Gerald), spot the pass before the opposing manager sights the hole(Fabregas), switch wings with aplomb(Robert Pires), track back(Ray Parlor), show a calmness in one-on-one situations with goal keepers(Henry), try the audacious(Nwankwo Kanu) and yet not come from the streets of Rio De Janerio.............

In the games I have been hounding about, he displayed a lack of commitment and decided when to come into the picture, usually late on. He tried so hard to attempt the catchy dribble, pass the ball too quickly(only considering a return to him in those instances) looked to score the Goal of the Season, and felt like Clichy did not deserve cover. The effect being that most attacks where broken down in the most delicate of position in the attacking third, exposure of our Centre Backs when Clichy moved up to push attack, loads of goals conceded from the left side of defense, and the head of his teammates dropping especially because he is seriously looked up to.

Lo and behold, the return of Nasri and Rosciky did the trick last night. He had to stake a claim to his position in the starting line up, put a marker down for his teammates and let the manager have the nice piece of splitting headache that comes with team selection.

His movement, defense splitting passing and confidence on the ball and off it were exemplary. It is no mean fit to make three assists in any game and even when e did not shoot as often at goal as expected he put in a shift worth all the pounds his accountant has to work around week in, week out. No wonder Arsene Wenger had this to say about his performance;

"Arshavin was outstanding today because he gave the ball every time at the fraction of a second you wanted him to give the ball. That's top, top quality." and

"Yes. Our policy is to develop our own players and add players of special quality and Vermaelen and Arshavin are two good examples. Contrary to what people say I am not scared to spend money but what we want is to buy the players who have the needed quality to strengthen the team. We have only players here who can play and pass the ball, and score. Arshavin can be a decisive passer of the ball."

If the performance is repeated every game and with goals to compliment it, Need i say more......?

Goons-Spurs: Case for a Good Gunners Game

Uche Ugorji — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:26:06 -0400

After the slight modalities of the Carling Cup, in which both teams claimed big scalps of team from Mersey-side, it's back to the real reason why the wives and girlfriends (WAGS) wish the weekend was a thunderstorm weekday.

Both teams won against two of last season's big five and would take in some confidence going into the first of what they hope would be two North-London derbies. (By that I mean, they would be looking to avoid each other by the time the draws for the last eight take place, which would be known a few minutes before they step out for their tea-time kickoff on Saturday.)

For the Gunners, it is expected that all but one of those who played on Wednesday evening would be off the starting lineup—that is, if manager Arsene Wenger decided to throw Samir Nasri into the fray after coming through his first game of the season unscathed.

The probable changes might see Wenger restore Manuel Almunia to the lineup after taking note of Vito Mannone's gift to Charlton Cole at Upton Park. We might also see the Prof. replace Abou Diaby with Nasri, although that is not a given, but it sure would gladden the hearts of Arsenal fans, who continue to rue the presence of the taller Frenchman in the side (usually due to his poor decision making, especially in defensive and even in attacking positions).

Wenger might also toy with the possibility of going for quick goals by putting in either of Nasri, Fran Merida, Eduardo, or Nicklas Bendtner on the right wing in place of Emmanuel Eboue, but just as in the case before, we might not be shocked if he does not.

One thing is for sure: He would be looking for his team, led by their young captain, Cesc Fabregas, to score three, four, five, or even six goals in the first half.

It seems like that is the only way for his team not to get pegged back going by the AZ, West Ham, and even corresponding game of last season, where his team lost leads, squandered more goals scoring chances, and yet went home with nothing more than one point after dominating said games.

The Spurs captain has made a huge statement that his team is on par with their foes from across the N5 and might even be a better prospect at making it into the Champions League at the end of the season, going by what he referred to as better players and a greater depth in team.

The absence of danger man Luka Modric must delight the Gunner faithfuls and Wenger, as without the diminutive orchestrator, Tottenham lacks someone with the ability to split their defense with amazing passes, second only to the penetration of their own Fabregas.

The inability of Harry Houdini to play marksman Jermain Defoe, their top scorer this season, would also be crucial, as he is one known for getting goals against top quality opposition, not the least Arsenal.

His straight red card in the game against Pompey might come back to haunt his team. In his absence the whites would turn to lanky striker Peter Crouch to do what a lot of teams manage to do against the Arsenal rearguard: score.

In general, what would count the most in this game is how they manage to stop the fluidity of the Gunner's midfield and attack, stopping them from converting a good number of their usual high rate of attempts, and making use of their chances when they do get them (something that won't be lacking, taking into account the vulnerability of the fullback when they go forward).

Robin Van Persie is on a goal run, and Andrei Arshavin is capable of scoring at any moment when he really feels like taking the game by the scruff. Fabregas is getting in among the goals and would you be surprised to see an after-goal celebration led by either one of Thomas Vermaleen or William Gallas (who have nine goals between them already).

Would a rear goal from Alex Song, Gael Clichy, Bacary Sagna, or even the goalkeeper on the day (Paul Robinson did that a couple of seasons ago) tilt the pot this time or would Eboue have his accurate shooting boot on, just like a hat-trick from Eduardo would be a delight to see.

However this pans out, it is hoped that good football is produced, no controversial moments (as if we don't have that every time), total lack of fan abuse (is it possible these days?), and a win for Arsenal (especially to ensure sanity in the papers for the next morning) is the outcome of this cracker of a derby game.

Why No Fast-Track for Sir Fergie?

Uche Ugorji — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 04:46:52 -0400

Saturday: Emmanuel Adebayor stands on the face of Robin Van Persie.

Tuesday: Emmanuel Adebayor is charged with violent conduct.

Thursday: Emmanuel Adebayor is given a three-match ban.

Bish, bash, and indeed bosh—the FA's fast-track disciplinary system worked like a dream and Adebayor could not set foot on a Premier League pitch until he had served the requisite time for his rather obvious crime.

But the FA's fast-track disciplinary system does not apply to some untouchables, so two days after Sir Alex Ferguson's entirely unprovoked, selfish and Machiavellian attack on referee Alan Wiley, the FA confirm that they have politely written to the Scotsman to 'explain his comments.'

Ferguson will presumably deign to reply in a week's time and then—after a few days of deliberation—the FA will issue a slap on the wrist (usually a warning of future conduct), by which time the media have lost interest after two more weeks of crunching challenges, disgraceful dives, tasteless celebrations, and the odd footballer arrest.

Errant footballers have to pay an immediate price for their indiscretions on the pitch and yet managers are allowed the grace of time for their comments to fade out of the public eye.

Two seasons ago, Ferguson was finally given a warning from the FA almost two months after his referee rant following the FA Cup loss to Portsmouth and the news eventually merited three or four paragraphs in the national press because the news agenda had moved on.

What Ferguson did on Saturday was ridiculous, and it is almost as ridiculous that he has not yet apologized. He was not even asked about the refereeing of Alan Wiley—why would he be? It was not contentious—but instead responded to a question about Ben Foster with an entirely unfounded and considered speech that he knew would detract attention away from the poor nature of United's display.

Hooray for clever diversionary tactics, some may cry, but Wiley is not Rafa Benitez or Arsene Wenger—he did not sign up for the kind of personal attack that will see him become an easy target for fans, players and managers in the coming months. According to some reports he has had to be persuaded not to retire.

What Ferguson did was inexcusable—and, according to Jeff Winter, probably sueable - and he should not be allowed the time and space to 'explain his comments' in a letter to the FA.

They know exactly what he's said—what could the explanation possibly be if not "Well, Ben Foster was sh**e, I probably shouldn't have played Danny Wellbeck and I have no idea if Rio and Nemanja will ever play well again together, so I thought I'd buy myself some time by having a bit of a pop at the referee"?

Archaic red tape may be binding the FA in this case, but surely if players can be punished within the space of days for what happens in the heat of the moment, managers should face speedier censure for coldly using referees to detract from their own mistakes

Football in These Times!

Uche Ugorji — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 08:35:30 -0400

I have tried my possible best to keep from writing in these mad times. I must say, this time of the year is my worst, especially because it is usually about all talk and no play.

Yes, Madrid has gone gaga, Chelsea are suddenly not sure if they are giants of the market, United are still shocked he left and don't know exactly who to get and what to do with the money they got, everyone speculates for Arsenal, Barcelona don't know if to keep it stable or go crazy like their rivals, Spurs start thinking about being a big club, and just before I forget, Man City start to play around with its money...

It is one of those times when football in Europe continues to flatter decency and show a reflection of what is definitely not the present times.

It was hoped that the global recession would help bring the game back to a normal structure and thinking caps back on the heavy heads, but from what we have seen yet, it is nothing like that we should expect.

In all, we have to say, that which must be paramount if the love for the game. In the midst of the cruelty, and barbaric mention of millions of whatever currency they have at the front, we must look to protect the game, played by a good many, watched by loads and loved by the unthinkable.

Kaka, Ronaldo, Eto, Villa, Tevez, Ibrahimovic, Diego, Johnson (how did he get in here?), Douglas (yet to be out of his teens), Pirlo, Maicon and the very many who would be the main attraction, especially for the high amounts attached to the contracts they sign and the wages they would be entitled to, should take it in as the benefit of the love for the game.

And in so doing, remember that across the world, those who are the true fans are those who don't have money to eat, yet would climb a tree and break a leg trying to get into stadiums (for free), steal a television set, beat their wives (for distraction during a football match), hang themselves (as our dear Kenyan fan did), or even get crushed by the van of an opposing fan...

Football must show sincerity and meekness, that is not to say it should wallow in penury or mediocrity, but it should show to have a heart like the humans who live and die for it.

Midfield General: The Gooner Perspective

Uche Ugorji — Thu, 14 May 2009 09:47:02 -0400

A lot of people tend to forget that the spine of Arsene Wenger's best teams have been his style of playing two central midfielders with the exceptional abilities of ball-holding, clean tackling and efficient ability of passing.

Most of the reference has been made to Patrick Viera, but in defying contrast i have to make mention of the presence of Giles Grimandi, Emmanuel Petit, Ray Parlour, Edu and most recently Gilberto Silva.

These players where so box to box you hardly noticed them. Of these lot, I continue to duff my hat for the particular talent displayed by Petit and the highlight of his partnership with Viera was in the final game of the 1998 world cup in France.

The last goal of the competition comes to my mind and the beauty of the move leading to the goal is everlasting in my memory.

It must be noted thought, that even with those partnerships in midfield, and others across the pitch in Wenger's glory years, he didn't make it to the Semi-final or Final stages of different champions league competitions, something that happened more regularly in the past three season.

I am not making a case for Wenger, but I am trying to look at the many reasons why things have not worked out for the Brilliant Frenchman, especially taking into consideration the most flagrant reasons pushed to the fore by his critics, primarily the case of signing an experienced defensive midfielder.

I already think it is a wrong assumption to say that is why no trophy has come to the Emirates, but I agree that Wenger needs another proper player, not personality in the mould of mega-millions.

I say so given how quick Cesc Fabregas has transformed from what the press called a soft young-ling to a combative Central Midfielder who still retains his amazing ability, something that would come good if Wenger finds another of such player,maybe without the most striking similarity as Fab4's passing.

Experience they say is it, but for me it is proper that counts, as is the case with Flamini.

People tend to forget that a couple of months to the beginning of his best season in Arsenal colours, he was asked to look for a club, as he had failed to measure up in that position and was used in other positions across the pitch.

To say he was experienced is an overstatement, because he was not, but it did not take away the fact that he turned to a fantastic player in his last year.

Indeed, it is difficult to pick out such a mammoth of a player, and when you do he is so tied to his club you might have to sell the club to acquire the services such a player, for example, Daniel DeRossi fits the bill.

But you will have to take an African Voodoo priest to Rome, to make everyone in Italy lose their senses, get signatures,get on a private jet and into the Emirates in all but one second.

Another example would be to ask Villarreal to sell Spain's pride in the case of Marco Senna for anything less than the value of a priceless diamond. Did I hear someone mention Masherano of Cambiasso? I thought so, but these two would win the ball and most probably give it back to the guy they collected it from.

Though I am not saying these two battling midfield cronies are bad, but the passing efficiency is very important to the Gunners play. There are murmurs of Xabi Alonso, but he is not the best in defensive positions and they talked about Gohkan Inler all preseason, but in truth, he has been a shade of his first season this year.

Would you say, there is no alternative? No!!! I would look to suggest a couple of names and i do so after a comprehensive search, but as we all know i cant know it all, so here we go and there is always a catch to each.

Felipe Melo: He is Brazilian and neat on the ball, something that would bring back Gilberto Silva memory to you. Plus if you consider that Arsene Wenger has tried to have the Brazilian Flair and neatness over the years, he would make all the proper sense.

He is a efficiently good from box to box, his marking is Macherano like, the type that is referred to in Football Manager as " He is so good, opponents leave the pitch asking did I play today"?

A measure shot and comfortable using both feet, his energy level is admirable. You can say he is experienced as, he has been putting up good performances for both club and country.

Fiorentina's midfield general would fit the bill perfectly and although he won't come cheap or easy, this being because of the fact that he just joined the team only last season.

Lee Catermole: Please! Please! Just before you begin to think twice, i urge you to watch this bull of a player.

His tenacity is unmatched in the league and his ability to pick off his man in a game and make you probably ask if he was on the pitch sometime about the 75th minute is definitely a plus, to be more exact, another look at the game at the JJB stadium last night against Manchester United, and the fact that I failed to notice Paul Scholes 'til the end of the game is testament to this observation.

He is the reason why, most games his team play against big teams have been tight, but as usual one man does not make a team. He displays guts, only coming second to Wayne Rooney in that department and spirit is not lacking on his C.V. He would be the protector in chief of both the back four and Fabregas.

His shooting would complement the attack and he runs from end to end sort of like Gerrard and he is neat with his passing, plus shows good ambition going forward. Now, here is the catch, he is English and won't we all love that extra number of homegrown in there!!!

Blaise Matuidi: French!!! Yes, French!!! But who else would get the best out of a french youngster with this boys talent and spirit. He is tough-tackling and just like the above named players a box to box player. He is not lacking in passing ability and might come at the most affordable price of all mentioned.

Now, something tells me that whoever reads this would ask, why no Yaya Toure? It is so, because we all know he would fit the bill most perfectly and it might just take him winning the treble for Barcelona this season, for them and even himself to think it is not a bad idea to change environment and play with my older brother.

Some other names like Mathieu Bodmer and Jean Makoun won't sound out of context, all that required is someone with both guts and brains, and the ability to take the game by the scruff, yet have the basic of measure of composure when the going gets tough.

Arsenal's Eduardo Da Silva: The Fox is Back in the Box

Uche Ugorji — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 17:43:20 -0500

"Well Eduardo has been the best player on the pitch for this half hour. His movement, his positional sense, his awareness, his coolness in front of goal, the clean-ness of his headed goal...all quality. He's the difference, and he seems to have rejuvenated a side that lacked creative intuition in months gone by."

Twenty-nine minutes into his comeback game and that was how the commentary on Goal.com ran. I smiled at the thought that, only just two days ago, I used the same definition for the man. I also mentioned he would bring about a renewed purpose to a side that has lacked it's founding footballing principle, creativity.

When Eduardo got on the pitch, a sigh of relief must have been heaved across North London(N5), and to every true fan of the game, it was a lovely sight. The reason not lost to the ardent follower of the game. From his first touch you could tell, of his class and the anticipation of a fine evening's game would creep into your mind.

His movement and the deftness of his touches were remarkable, especially for someone who had not seen top flight football for a whole year and the fear of his reclusiveness, going by the type of look one gets after that tackle on him many months ago, indeed he showed none of such and was in the mix at all times. Touching, passing, running, chasing down the ball, going for the aerial challenge, and making tackles to help his mates keep possession or power up an attack with his measured passing.

He did everything right and his first goal, a quick interchange of passing with the very impressive Mexican youngster, Carlos Vela, and the purposeful header into the far corner, a beauty to behold. His second, a true definition of his awareness, composure and determination to get on with a game he so loves. He won the penalty, took the ball, placed it with a calmness, that was reassuring and then buried the ball in the far corner, albeit sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.

He is a true gentleman and that was displayed when he ran straight up to the bench and gave an emotionally charged hug to the Fitness Trainer at the Emirates, Tony Colbert. Minutes later he jugged off to a thunderous applause from the Arsenal faithful and I am sure a few of the Cardiff City Supporters. Even though he walked straight to the dressing room, one hopes its only for a quick check-up on how his system reacted to the comeback and not another set-back.

In the end, the 57,000+ who graced the Emirates in the chilly weather, would have gone home with memories that have the name EDUARDO Da SILVA written all over them.

He is back, "The Fox In The Box."

The Prospects of a Resurgent Arsenal

Uche Ugorji — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 02:20:21 -0500

With what is the most anticipated return that this EPL season could witness, the comeback of Eduardo Da Silva, Theo Walcott, Thomas Rosicky, Cesc Fabregas, and the injection of the Russian Wizard sets out to become the most exciting times for Arsenal fans and indeed the team.

Here is a preview on what these individuals would most likely bring to the team on their return and debuts respectively...

Eduardo Da Silva

The "fox in the box" as he is referred to, would most definitely bring the biggest smile to the faces of the fans at the Emirates. His injury came at the time he had started to represent the impeccable finisher Arsene Wenger told the world he would be.

His calmness in front of the goal, verve in the finish, and of great importance, his team work are a sight to behold.

And at a time when Robin Van Persie requires someone with movement (something Adebayor seems to lack now), it would suit the system that Arsenal has been forced to play, especially against teams that come to the Emirates and sit back.

He can be the goal scorer that the Gunners yearn for, at a time when they have needed goals the most.

Theo Walcott

The pace of this sprint star and his ability to get behind defences has been what the team has most importantly missed.

Some people would say it is creativity that has been lacking, but even when they have managed to hold the ball, teams have forced them to play centrally, because they lack the required pace to open up opponent flanks.

His ability to put in those low crosses across goal would have benefited Adebayor the most, but with Van Persie and Eduardo, and on a couple of occasions, the presence of Nasri around the box, a lot more goals would come.

It would be sensible, though, to not expect as much aggressiveness, especially in the first week or two upon his return....

Thomas Rosicky

The bad patch for Arsenal, all but, started at the end of January and that was when they lost "Mozart"—the one whose ability to turn things around has been crocked for more than a year, and it must be a national relief that he is back.

I can't forget those goals against Liverpool in 2007, at Anfield in the FA Cup, because those goals defined him.

He would bring mobility, and at anytime, slot into any position in the attacking sense to cause damage to any opposition.

Cesc Fabregas

"El Capitan" and his measured maturity has been sorely missed. Even though the team has not lost since, the team has struggled to open up teams with the passing efficiency that it has been revered for.

His maturity, eye for the killer pass, vision, technique, dead ball ability, and presence have been lacking, and it has allowed teams more comfort when they play the Gunners.

His anticipated return in a short time, more so, earlier than estimated, would do Arsenal a lot of good.

Andrey Arsharvin

He is not a comeback, but he must be mentioned.

What would he bring to this team? Pace, brilliance, verve, aggressiveness, a change in team movement, and a cunning eye for goal.

That much is enough said, plus the fact that at the time of this magic reunion, there would seem to be that depth in the squad...

Arsene's Arsenal Misfits

Uche Ugorji — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:18:43 -0500

I have continued to stay clear from the call for a clear-out at the Emirates, but it is impossible to do so now.

After more than three months of the wobble and inconsistency, it is time for Arsene to hold his breath and make the decision to let go some of the players who he has had so much faith in, but have yet to repay that faith.

It can be very frustrating to watch the mediocrity that these boys display, even when you so want to believe that they have what it takes to make it at the top level, after all they passed through the same school as Patrick Viera, Cesc Fabregas, Gael Clichy etc.

Young Brigade:

Nicklas Bendtner

He must be the worst striker I have ever seen. I have been patient with him, and looked to the potential that Arsene Wnger has seen in him.

It is interesting to take note that, Wenger has looked to introduce the center forward into his team, but he looks for not just presence, but verve, passing ability, control, finishing, and most importantly, height in defensive set-piece positions.

Nicklas does not seem to know what he has and cant seem to know how not to be clumsy. He is best defined as lazy. I remember vividly when he just came back from his loan spell and was a lot in the press about how good he was, he has definitely showed he is not good enough.

He has been in the very lucky position of playing so many games, so there is no excuse for his inconsistency. He should be sold to the highest bidder in January.

Abou Diaby

For all the hype that he came with about being the next Viera, he is far from being anywhere as good as Patrick (I stole that line from Football Manager).

He is technically good on the ball and can be quite graceful when he goes on a dribbling run, but you weigh that against his inability to lift his game, his sloppiness in front of the box, his usual loss of the ball, and his laziness, then you conclude he is not good for the big time.

He has the potential to be very good, but it seems like he is just too relaxed to want to achieve anything and that won't help Arsenal. He can be a great player, maybe with a change in his attitude and do the very simple and required things on the pitch.

Mark Randall

It is just very simple, he is not good enough. He should be released on a free. Don't get me wrong, he was even bad on days when he played with the Carling cup boys.

Big Boys:

William Gallas & Mikael Silvestre

Gallas is definitely one of the best defenders in the world on a good day, but on a bad one, he is the worst you can get. It is a shame that he is the most experienced player in the team along with his compatriot Silvestre.

These two are just not good enough, if Arsenal want to win anything or even do good enough to gain the respect that they always had. Very sloppy on the ground and terrible in the aerial challenge. They make so many mistakes, that it affects the performance and morale of their team mates.

If I was a young player I would certainly not look up to these two, and Arsene would do himself and the club a lot of good by letting these wasted old men go.

The rest of the team should drop their lack of grit and show how good they are especially when playing against players and teams who are not as good as them.

The Inevitable Truth About Arsenal

Uche Ugorji — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 07:43:44 -0500

After the game at the City Of Manchester stadium, it definitely sensible to look inward and make a point for a clear out those things that clog the wheel of my Beloved Arsenal F.C.We have definitely arrived at the decision to let Gallas go, and that to me is a good start. He was not performing consistently on the pitch, scoring one goal and conceeding two to cancel his so-called good work out.

When he wasn't doing so, he made very average players, like Agbonlahor and others like him seem like lethal strikers who should be looking to see their names on the goal of the season DvD. As if that was not enough, he has the loudest and most uncontrollable mouth of any captain I have ever seen, and to blame other players used to look very irritating to me.

A couple of the other players have continued to prove liabilities to the Wenger dream, and it's with the deepest regret that i have to go on a name calling exercise (don't call me a snitch, I ain't Gallas!). Let us start with those at the back and the first name for me must be...

Gael Clichy: This young man is definitely the best left-back in the division, if not in the world at this time, but you must say, a lack of equally defensive astute competition for his position allows him get too comfortable.

In as much as he is great going foward and has a great work-rate and a recovery that is unmatched by any other in the EPL, he has caused us to lose some very vital games or at the least conceed goals that never should have been carved out by opponents.

If there are any doubts to this stated fact, you don't have to look far to see, the dying min. goal conceeded at Birmingham, the goal at The City of Manchester City last season, the goal that gave Tottenham the sniff for their draw at the Emirates a couple of weeks ago and of recent the goal at the same venue today. I am so far from saying he should go, but he has to pick himself cast out his moments of loss of concentration.

Abou Diaby: This is a man who came with so much promise and Wenger always gives him room to prove doubters wrong. Its is funny that in games that you expect him to get lost or fail to perform he delivers the goods and on the day you look at the opposition and weigh his natural and technial ability on the high end he fails to turn up.

He has a lovely and smooth dribbling ability, but when you weigh that against, his ability to be undecided when pushed to the wall, his love for holding the ball too long(thus, putting teams mates off steam when in an attacking position), his knack for losing the ball very efficiently and his sluggishness when trying to defend, you find yourself wishing he stayed back in France...

He definitely gets my vote to go, because he is one guy whose presence has cost us more that we have gained from it.

Kolo Toure: I hear people talk about giving him the captain band, but ii sharply disagree. He is and remains one of our most loyal players, but if goin by form, he is one of such that is a the foot of the list. Since the African Cup of Nations, Kolo has looked so ordinary and it immediately showed, when he got back.

If you didn't notice the clubs slide in form coincided with Kolo's return from that competition. The first team had actually not lost a game until his filing out against Manchester United in that nauseating defeat. From there on, we started leaking goals and he alongside Gallas were so much the reason.

He can rediscover his great form of the 2004 season again, but he would have to buckle up and show he is captain material before he should be considered.

Nicklaus Bendtner: I think it is time for Arsene to let this one go. He has been at the fore of those asking for playing time and now he has had a load of it. In his most efficient moments, he has still failed to look an arsenal player.

HE used to go as far as saying he is better than Adebayor, but we all see he is far from the standard of Adebaba. He gives very little to the team, and continuously kills attacking forays of teammates. He has hardly scored with his head this season, which is regarded his best asset and he has not got as much as a 1:4 goal scoring ratio. He should go look for his chance somewhere else and loose up space for another to come in.

Denilson/Song: These two young players are very talented and i see a lot of potential, but they have huffed and puffed at times. The have varying abilities but have failed to stamp an authority in the very delicate defensive midfield role that Arsene Wenger has thrust them into.

In due time and with quality ahead of them in the pecking order, they would mature and turn out world-class players. It seems interesting that when on the pitch with Fabregas, both players have in my opinion out-shined him, but in his absence have failed to raise their game, like in the games against Manchester City and Fulham.

I would continue to watch them as the season progresses, but for now, they can improve and help Fabregas get to his old form, by doing a lot more to protect the back four.

When people talk about Wenger having to leave, I get so irritated and immediately want to ask when they started supporting Arsenal, and how else they would have been fans if he was not the Manager of this unique club. In Arsene we trust, and that would never change.

William Gallas: The Case of a Captain

Uche Ugorji — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 18:59:42 -0500

As the 2007-08 EPL season was about to start, the news that Arsene Wenger had passed the captains armband to William Gallas hit me in more ways than one.

I had taken to admiring the stand-in captain at the time, Gilberto Silva, who was vice-captain to Thierry Henry and on Henry's departure to Barcelona, after a very unsuccessful stint as club captain, the onus fell on the gaffer to pick someone who would lead his team to a more glorifying season.

The choice of Gallas was as controversial as it came, for many reasons—such as his nationality, the crudeness of demoting Gilberto (who i think didn't do a bad job, but was too silent as a captain, sort of like a Stevie G of Liverpool), the proposition of of making his defensive partner, who was had been around for a longer period at the club, Kolo Toure, the captain, and the fact that everyone wanted to see Fabregas stay on longer (hence the placing of the band on him, to keep him occupied).

In the end, I saw it in the most objective way possible, which is that Gallas was the biggest player at the club, the most internationally decorated, and someone who the manager could trust to do his bidden on the pitch.

Gallas was a strong man, who could rally the troops as and when due, and his ability to get the boys going with is goalscoring ability (something that has not been lacking).

A season and almost a half away and the captaincy is off Gallas. The reasons can be debated on, but I think it's down to the fact that he was especially quick to go to the press when he was attacked for his performance on the pitch and the stories of the pitch.

His infamous protest during the dying minutes of the game and after the game against Birmingham come quickly to mind, on how not to show emotions, when you are the leader of a falling pack.

He had in the past had goes at Theo Walcott, Fabregas, and of recent the indications pointing to a 25-year-old member of the Arsenal team (likely van Persie) and a 20-year-old member of the French National team (likely Nasri) as being rude to older players in such a manner that would not help but throw him out onto the streets.

This, put together with the very recent report of his smoking escapades, would only serve as the wisest move for the team in general.

He simply should have done what a leader should do, be diplomatic and manage problems internally, and as such not undermine the presence of his managers.

I have to point that even when he rants about the performance of the team, it would not take rocket-science to see that his performances on the pitch on very many occasions were so terrible that, if not for the fact he was captain, should not be a regular starter for the team.

That said, I must also point to his heroic performances against Wigan, Manchester United, Bolton, and Chelsea last season—to mention a few of his great leader moments.

In the end i think he had to be relieved of the band and in perspective, his place on the team, which I feared would be the outcome of his demotion.

Arsene's Young Gunz: The Assured and Not So Sure

Uche Ugorji — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 02:46:12 -0500

Goalkeeper:

Lukasz Fabianski
During the 5-1 demolition job Tottenham Hotspur inflicted on Arsenal's second string in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup last season, Fabianski looked nervy and out of his depth.

That experience was to act as a learning curve, though, as his recent performances prove. He is currently playing understudy to Manuel Almunia and captained a young side to a 3-0 scalping of Wigan Athletic in Tuesday evening's League Cup win. His continental style nearly cost Arsenal in the first half when he failed to collect box-bound balls, but he made amends with a fine double-save late in the second 45.

He parried the first and reacted quickly to thwart Amr Zaki's follow-up strike. He has the potential to dominate the area but needs to learn when to come for the ball and when to sit back and allow his defence to clear, rather than get caught between two minds. At 23 years of age he is still fetal in goalkeeping terms.

An opportunity to regularly try out as number one in the primary competitions surely awaits him, but the Polish international will have to be patient as Almunia is entering his peak years. If Lukasz gets itchy feet then he could share a similar fate to Stuart Taylor, now playing second fiddle to Brad Friedel at Aston Villa.

Potential future pupils: Vito Mannone; Wojciech Szczesny; Sean McDermott

Defence:

Gavin Hoyte
The younger brother of former Gunner Justin Hoyte, Gavin is already the more astute sibling in terms of defensive ability. He is athletic, versatile and quick.

Like Kieran Gibbs he faces stiff competition from the current incumbents of the first team's full-back slots. Bacary Sagna, Emmanuel Eboue and even Kolo Toure can cover in the most urgent of crises, but Hoyte—captain of the reserves—poses an interesting problem for Wenger, and the Frenchman holds the Englishman in high regard.

Prior to his promotion to the reserves he also wore the armband for the Under 18s, so his leadership skills together with Arsenal's perceived lack of natural leaders could also play in the 18-year-old's favour.

Alexandre Song Billong
One of the more "senior" members of the group. Song was one of the stand-out performers in the African Cup of Nations at the turn of the year, and with no natural defensive midfielder brought in over the summer to replace the outgoing Mathieu Flamini and Gilberto, Song's name was put forth as a possible partner for Cesc Fabregas.

Wenger, though, thinks differently. During the final five games of the season last term Song was played in defence, as he was again on Tuesday evening when he contained a striker tipped for the Premier League golden boot: Amr Zaki. He was calm and composed in a young backline against Wigan Athletic, and seemed to have a good understanding with centre-back partner Johan Djourou.

His Premier League outings this season have been less than stunning, but he has been utilised in a number of positions. At 6'0" he is of a similar height to William Gallas and Kolo Toure.

His athleticism and ability to dribble the ball out of defence are key attributes, but he offers little to what Arsenal's first-choice duo already have and his inconsistent form could act against him, as Wenger may look to concentrate on developing the talents of even younger players like Havard Nordveit or Ignasi Miquel.

Johan Djourou
With Phillipe Senderos enjoying a Milanese loan spell, Swiss international Johan Djourou is the tallest centre-back on the books at Arsenal. He was guilty of a handball during the Latic clash but the offence went unpenalised by referee Steve Tanner.

Like Song, Djourou is capable of starting play from defence—he helped set up Arsenal's third goal and Carlos Vela's first. He is good in the air and his height advantage could see him picked against teams that are dangerous from set pieces.

He made his Gunners debut over four years ago, though, and is arguably in the Carling Cup side to provide the experience on this stage. If he were to make a sustained breakthrough to the first team he may have already done so by now.

Kieran Gibbs
If Gael Clichy is the reincarnate of Ashley Cole, then Kieran Gibbs is the second coming of Armand Traore.

Both seem more competent going forward and supplementing the attack rather than staying deep, tackling, and moving forward with the ball. In a 4-2-3-1 formation this would work tremendously well, as the two defensive midfielders can sit and cover while the full-backs provide the necessary width.

However, in Arsenal's system, if Gibbs wants to cut it at left-back then he needs to work on his defensive discipline so that his tackling and positional sense is as strong as his forward runs and link-up play. He could enjoy a prosperous career in the top flight but, with so much competition in front of him at Arsenal and a hit-and-miss loan spell at Norwich behind him, he may need to leave Ashburton Grove in order to find it.

Potential future pupils: Kerrea Gilbert; Havard Nordveit; Armand Traore

Special mention: Ignasi Miquel: Was a Barcelona reject but kept his feet in the game and prior to Arsenal securing his signature for £500,000 from lower league Cornella, European heavyweights Villarreal and Manchester United were sniffing around. He is only 16 years of age but he is taller than most grown men! Miquel is an imposing figure that could develop into a defensive rock and, unlike Arsenal's current crop of first-choice defenders, his greatest asset is his aerial strength.

Midfield:

Jack Wilshere
Who says Arsene Wenger does nothing for English football? The hype is shifting away from pacey winger Theo Walcott and onto fluent playmaking midfielder Jack Wilshere. His rise to prominence has been quick, and with good reason.

He can pick a pass, he is finely balanced and, although the Latics tried to muscle him off the ball, Wilshere stood strong despite the fact that he can not legally drink himself legless—better save that man-of-the-match bottle of sparkly plonk for another 14 months, Jackie!

It would not be surprising to see him tested in the Premier League, as he has already made the seven-man bench for some fixtures this season, including the Emirates visit of Manchester United. His touch and technique are superb, and he knows where the net is.

He enjoyed a good run in the U 18s last campaign, a few games in the reserves, a good pre-season with the first team, and is currently reaping the rewards. Wenger has hinted that he has the same potential as Cesc Fabregas, but is a better dribbler on the ball.

With Barcelona looking to make a £30 million swoop for their Catalan youth product now blossoming at Arsenal, the speedy development of academy graduate Jack Wilshere, together with the ducats changing hands, may soften the blow of a summer loss...

Mark Randall
Arsenal have seen three defensive midfielders leave north London this year—Lassana Diarra, Gilberto and Mathieu Flamini—yet Wenger only added young French anchor Francis Coquelin and Welsh sensation Aaron Ramsey.

Mark Randall's competition for the shielding role is therefore limited, but he has shown thus far that he lacks the ability to be trusted in the bigger competitions. His decision making is poor. Instead of playing the right pass he'd try an audacious one. He goes for the fancy instead of the simple, and gives the ball away with too much regularity.

His midfield team-mate Aaron Ramsey has already been offered more Premier League chances in the first team than Randall has in his entire Arsenal career, and Ramsey is two years younger.

Aaron Ramsey
His rugby-playing past could play into his favour more so than first realised. Arsenal are often criticised for lacking the necessary bite in midfield, and even former Liverpool legend Alan Hansen said this week that Arsenal's away form is lacking because they have not honed in on the physical aspect of the game.

Upon Ramsey's arrival in north London, goalkeeping coach Bob Wilson spoke of his excitement at a midfield partnership of Fabregas and Ramsey, which confused certain people who saw the Welshman's ideal position on the wings or further up field, as a deeper role would seemingly stifle his attacking flair.

But he seems capable anywhere across the midfield line, can pick a pass from deep and, like Wilshere, is strong on the ball. Also, like Fabregas, he seems content to play for the assist rather than the glory of finding the goal. He has outstanding technique and was a wise—and brilliant—summer purchase from Wenger considering the competition from Manchester United.

The future of Arsenal's midfield is secure if Ramsey and Wilshere both stay at the club - and if they do, the media will no doubt lay off Wenger's back because they are both British.

Fran Merida
The Arsenal training ground in Hertfordshire may as well be renamed the home of the pass. Merida's recent efforts will be eclipsed by those of Ramsey and Wilshere, but Fran is the one whom makes the midfield tick. He will hardly misplace a pass and has an understanding in the middle of the park like Ruud van Nistelrooy has on the rebound.

He has an in-depth reading of the game and has shown in recent matches precisely why Barcelona were equally as miffed about the loss of Merida as they were with the departure of Fabregas. He is perhaps not as ready as Ramsey and Wilshere, but will see increased pitch time next season.

Potential future pupils: Henri Lansbury; Pedro Botelho; Emmanuel Frimpong; Cedric Evina; Nacer Barazite

Special mention: Francis Coquelin: Signed in the summer from little-known French side Stade Lavallois but enjoyed a good pre-season with Arsenal's first team. Is a combative and strong defence-minded midfielder with a good range of passing and is in the Makelele/ Diarra mould. At 17 years of age he is some way off Premier League quality, but could quite feasibly develop into a force.

Attack:

Carlos Vela
He is there already. Arsene Wenger has dubbed Vela, 19, the best finisher at Arsenal, which is some accolade considering they are still paying Eduardo da Silva's wages.

A bargain buy in 2005 for £125,000 Vela spent the past three years in Spain while he obtained a work permit to play in England. His hat-trick against Sheffield United in the third round was awe-inspiring, and his deft dink over Chris Kirkland on Tuesday evening was a near replica of his second goal against Paddy Kenny and the Blades.

Murmurs of his quality—he repeatedly made a mug of Sergio Ramos during an Osasuna and Real Madrid fixture last season—filtered through to England over the past couple years and now Premier League fans are seeing it first hand. Arsenal have abundant options up front with Emmanuel Adebayor, Robin van Persie, Nicklas Bendtner, Eduardo da Silva, Theo Walcott, and now Carlos Vela.

While the Mexican will push for a place and will no doubt be gifted the opportunities to impress in the league like he has the Carling Cup, the same can sadly not be said for two-goal hero Jay Simpson.

Jay Simpson
He has an unselfish style, he runs the lines and also through the centre getting himself into great positions, and he is comfortable in front of goal as displayed with his two assured finishes against Wigan Athletic. He was on loan at Millwall last season, played over 40 games, and was eventually named the PFA Fans' Player of the Season.

His talent is indubitable, and if he were at any other Premier League club he would have been talked up more so than he currently is at Arsenal. The hype of Arsenal's young forwards though currently falls on the shoulders of Carlos Vela and Theo Walcott, so Simpson will, unfortunately, find it increasingly difficult moving up the ranking as seventh-choice striker.

Potential future pupils: Giles Sunu; Luke Freeman; Rui Fonte; Sanchez Watt

Special mention: Benik Afobe: Benik is two years ahead of schedule and last season, at 14-years old (now 15), was banging in the goals for fun (he netted 40 times in 33 appearances).

He is a pacey forward full of tricks, flicks and flair. He is good in the air and on the ground and is yet another fantastic youth prospect. He is English, too. To put things in perspective, he is in year ten at school and will take his GCSEs not this summer, but the one after that. Last month he scored twice for England Under 16s.

Arsene Wenger has said in the past that he has a couple of 13/14-year-olds with so much ability that he can't teach them much more. The chances are that Afobe constitutes one component of the couple he was speaking of...

Credits to Alan Dawson of goal.com

Alan Curbishley: A Victim of the Monster

Uche Ugorji — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 03:15:53 -0400

Alan Curbishley has resigned as manager of Premier League club West Ham United. Curbishley tendered his resignation on Wednesday and it was accepted by West Ham owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson. The former Charlton boss had grown disillusioned at the club's transfer policy, which had led to the sales of Anton Ferdinand and George McCartney.

It's a shame that the influx of foreign and mega-rich individuals into the Premier League has brought so much instability to the clubs.

Very soon, it seems managers will be hired on a per-season basis.

It is critical to note that Curbishley was promised significant funds on and when needed, but he actually got almost no money this season, and instead chairman (and owner) Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson told Curbishley he had to reduce the club's wage bill, as money was focussed on training and medical facilities rather than signings.

This comes just two years after the promise of heaven and earth in a bid to turn West Ham United into a top four club.......hahahahahahaha!!!!!!!

I shouldn't laugh anymore...

Its a case that should be looked at by the very excited Manchester City fans and those of some other clubs who have continued to get carried away by some paper enscripted money, flashed in their face by individuals who have no love for the sport.

"Curbs" is a very good manager, this is evident in the performance of his team even with the worst injury case of last season, as he continued to give the big teams tough games.

He managed to keep Dean Ashton, which I think is laudable, he brought in Freddie Ljunberg (who ran his mouth about the team having more ambition than Arsenal!), Lucas Neil, a coup of sorts, then continued to give young players opportunites—e.g. Sears, Tomkins, Noble etc.—and seemed to get the best of players like Carlton Cole and Mathew Upson.

He did well during his long-term spell at Charlton before this, and when he left, the club went down, so it's plain for all to see he was magnificent there even with a small purse.

This game is losing some of its pride due to the influx of all and sundry with vast amounts of wealth, and their growing influence is disgusting.

Michel Platini, I join in your camp and hope we can get his project of cleansing European football quickly on track, for the sake of the world's biggest and best sport.

Arsenal's Project is Worth the Wait!

Uche Ugorji — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 22:25:19 -0400

I think it is, as has always been, too hasty to mock Arsene Wenger, as he is one of the only managers with any sort of ethic.

He more than anybody would want to achieve great things, especially when it would prove that he was right to stick to his convictions.

I like the sound of Stephen Appiah (plus the thought that he is for free and has so much experience and class, although he does have a checkered injury history), but even if it doesn't happen, if the players who he continues to have a lot of belief and trust in put up 100 percent everyday on the field of play we will have nothing less than the performance we saw against Newcastle.

People seem to forget that Alexander Song was the best defensive midfielder at The African Cup of Nations in January, and he was among the stand-out performers at the Olympics (where he spent a lot of time covering at centreback for his red card hungry teammates) earlier this year.

That is a lot of experience, given how competitive these two events turned out to be. He also got a good run at the end of last season, and it must be said that he impressed.

Denilson has somehow begun to put out a good show, going by the stats at least—he has two assists and one goal to his name already. Plus, he worked his socks out in the second leg against F.C Twente and in the game against Newcastle.

As they say, "you are only as good as your last game".

People seem to discount that fact that Fabianski is an international goalkeeper, and given his performances to date, is ready to deputise for the very dependable Almunia.

The performance of Samir Nasri, no matter how young he is, goes to show that the gaffer has a good eye for buying quality—especially as it concerns replacing the very legendary Robert Pires.

The fact that the quality he has not had at his disposal—Rosicky, Eduardo, Diaby, and even the newly signed Bischoff—and his continued belief that players who can slot into different positions in midfield and attack could only help boost the numbers, is as good as any manager that knows his onions.

It is a young team no doubt, but a team with lots of quality, and it is basically quality that differentiates the big four from the rest—both in management and players.

The bulk of this young team was in the run to the Champions League final, and that is a massive plus.

Arsene Wenger has even, over time, become more comfortable with buying players in the January window. This is to help give spice to whatever performance the team has already given, plus provide a good time to adapt to the league and its challenges before the next season.

Mr. Wenger knows what he is doing and there is no doubt about that, but we all have to wait till the season is over before passing judgment on this team again.

Ups & Downs for the Roaring Guns!!!

Uche Ugorji — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:50:15 -0400

Ups

1. The Gunners would be shinning in the Champions league proper.

2. Fabregas returned, retained his quality and went home without a set-back, same for the rest of the squad (thanks to the good players of Twente who didn't feel it was necessary to end careers on such an embarrassing night for them).

3. Walcott played well, proved he could get through a full 90 minutes ending on a high and highlights his center forward potentials (P.S Arsene take note).

4. Bendtner improved as the game got on, was less selfish and did some good lay offs to his team mates. He does need to be sharper on the pitch and show ruthlessness sometimes.

5. Gallas gets another goal and shows he can lead from the front, some Adams characteristics.

6. Denilson improves and it seems like he just needs a good run of games to get there (at least that's what helped Flamini improve).

7. Goals are coming in from the midfield something that was lacking last season.

8. Samir Nasri looks every bit like Pires, with his maturity and finishing.

9. Song looked steady and rugged enough to plug the DM role, after a matter of games we should be okay in there with him.

10. The team showed some guts out there and put up a good show after last weekends wobble, something that would be needed when it gets tough through the season (they call it champions stuff.)

11. The back-line did not lose concentration after the first couple of goals and kept a clean sheet again.

Downs

1. The strikers didn't get goals in today and van Persie is beginning to miss too many chances.

2. After 70 mins, it would have done a lot of good to get Vela and Wilshere on, this didn't happen and they might have been looking to show what they have got on such a night.

3. Bendtner took too long to get into the game, he isn't doing himself much good, especially giving the lack of support.

Good Days in Liverpool: The Reds Do It Again

Uche Ugorji — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 05:17:12 -0500

The Mist over Anfield settled last night after what seemed the last straw for Liverpool hopefuls, who had began to feel like they were about to "Walk Alone."

Rafa Benitez, a manager who I seriously admire and follow due to my conviction that he is one of the best tacticians in the game, was begining to lose grip of the fact that high expectations require equally high results, especially in a case where a lot of money was dolled out for the acquisition of some of the brightest and most expensive talent from across the globe.

He dug deep, very deep, to get his hands on Spain's best attacking material Fernando Torres, overpaid for dutchman Ryan Babel, scooped on the brazilian Lucas Leiva and in January plucked up Skctel, and in kamikaze fashion got Itanje the young french goalkeeper in raids that cost more than 60 million Pounds (GB).

On the night, even the fact that ANFIELD was the venue of one of the biggest games of the Round on Europes big night, did not seem to give the Reds any sort of chance against Europes most consistent clubside in the present season. Inter Milan had before the game only once failed to go undefeated in all competitions since september. That defeat did come in the Champions league, away to Fenebache in Turkey. Since that opening night loss, Inter has gone from strenght to strenght, maintaining the leadership position in Serie A, bullying their way through the Italian Cup, and staying atop in the group stages of the league of champions.

Rafa showed intent with his starting lineup that displayed attacking intent and a bench that seemed to tell of a Plan B, in the presence of the workable pair of Peter Crouch and Jermain Pennant as a remedy if the ground passing that was expected with the inclusion of Lucas Leiva and Ryan Babel. That though, didn't conceal the need to fight it out and dig in deep with strenght against the italians as displayed by the industry only Dirk Kuyt can bring. He stuck with the disappointing center-back pairing of Jaime Carragher and Sammie Hyypia and replaced the ineffective Riise with Fabio Aurelio at left-back.

The most effective man in a red shirt this season Fernando Torres, started up-front albeit alone after coming back from an injury during the last international round with Spain. Macherano was given the job of protecting the back four and captain marvelous, Gerald was as usual allowed to roam particularly from the right side of midfield ablely supported by Steve Finnan.

Roberto Mancini was cautious with his selection, but he included Julio Cruz in place of last weekends two-goal hero David Suazo who would definitely not be happy not to participate on the night. An also unhappy Hernan Crespo was on the bench, joined by the fit again duo of Patrick Viera and Luis Figo. What would have worried any concerned supporter was the absence of a midfield match-maker and very good passer of the ball to feed the deadly attack line that had Zlatan ibrahimovic in the shadows, a job handed down to Dejan Stankovic and one not carried out at all on the night.

It was quick and deserved thrust and mistakes on opposite sides of the pitch. It rightly went in the favour of the home team, all that was missing was the directness at goal that would have produced a hint of a goal. Materazzi was penalised and dished a yellow card in no time and when the red was flashed after the second yellow came though in questionable fashion, it would be a matter of if Liverpool would create enough. They didn't until the last 25 minutes of the game and thanks again to the precision of Dirk Kuyt under little pressure from Maicon in the wake of Ivan Cordoba's substitution due to an injury, did the first goal come on exactly the 85th minute. A second off the boot of Gerald ended the contest and would surely give the under-pressure Benitez a reason to heave a huge sigh of relief.

The questions are, would liverpool hold out at the San Siro? Would Inter regroup in the absence of Materazzi to keep a clean sheet and score three? Or would Liverpool prove the Champions League voodoo by beating the Italian Champions at their backyard?

How Arsenal, Emmanuel Adebayor Will Bust Blackburn

Uche Ugorji — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 22:01:13 -0500

In what seems to be Arsene's only top choice, Mad Jens, must hold down the No. 1 spot in goal as the Gunners match up against Blackburn, due to sickness suffered by the very good Manuel Almunia.

Look for Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy to consistently man the wings at the back in the Premierships, at right and left full back respectively.

Captain Gallas will lead the line from the center back position with the burnt-out Kolo Toure as his partner tonight in place of the very impressive Senderos. Toure is just returning from a long and painful African Nations Cup, while Senderos picked up an injury in his country's loss to England during an international friendly.

Due to injuries, exhaustion, and the Nations Cup in Africa, the midfield will most certainly be in pieces. All this is amplified by an unimpressive Gilberto Silva, who complained last week of his inability to break into a midfield that is and would be marshaled by Cesc Fabregas and the now dependable Manuel Flamini—also in doubt due to a knock in the game against Congo.

Hleb and young Theo Walcot will most likely serve in the wide positions given that Rosciky and Diaby’s recoveries from knocks and illness are improbable.

The forward line will be led by the in-form Adebayor and the technically gifted Eduardo Da Silva, to be supported at some point from the bench by the talented Nicklas Bendtner, who scored again for Denmark mid-week.

A win would take the Gunners to a five-point lead at the top after a truly poor display from United at home against a good Manchester City side, who in fact lost at home a week ago to Arsenal.

Arsene will no doubt assure his boys that a win and a good score line devoid of any goal(s) conceded would demonstrate to the other title rivals Arsenal’s ruthless intent to win come May.

Given the Rovers’ packed midfield and notable physical approach, Arsene will be looking to the intelligence of Fabregas to break down any resistance posed by the Ryan Nelsen-led defense. Nelsen steps in for Chris Samba due to a suspension.

Flamini’s charge will be to neutralize any attack strategy by Hughes, who is also short in midfield options due to suspensions and injury.

Adebayor must look at the goal scorers’ chart with intent to change its outlook at the top. Most recently, Ronaldo has failed to score while Mwariwari continues to add to his collection after his debut goal for City.

All this and more you’ll find on the wish list of yours faithfully, who hopes to jubilate to goals from the Premierships’ most prolific striker.