Arsenal: The Goon Outlook

I should have probably waited till the end of the transfer window (three days from now) and maybe I would have all the information to back whatever I put down here.

Five months and some weeks through the season and it sure is looking like a nice season. It might have been so in previous seasons, but you cannot take away the optimism and freshness of the air in GOONERLAND.

A League Cup final, progress in the FA Cup, although a daunting task in the Champions League Second Round against last year's nemesis Barcelona, a steady and encouraging Premier League campaign.

Something that has failed to be mentioned in the media is how the team has managed to go through the month of January without conceding in the League, even though they did concede a goal each in the two cup competitions, a steady defensive display must be commended.

The partnership of Djourou and Koscielny has been improving and it must be said that they have done a great job considering that they were not considered experienced enough.

They have also practically gone through the month of January playing 95 percent of the games. A midfield that has the mobility, passing ability, vision, technicality, variation, speed and balance as displayed by the team this season, has to be taken seriously.

The high points must be the improvement and performances of Jack Wilshere, Alexander Song and the very impressive Samir Nasri.

It must hold water for any argument that the absence of one or two of the above mentioned three brings apprehension from the fans.

They have become the fulcrum of the team and the platform for Cesc Fabregas to lead the attack charge alongside either Robin van Persie or Marouane Chamakh.

The form of Theo Walcott must also be appreciated, as he has stepped up to the plate this season, and his finish is a pleasure to watch.

As much good as we can say about the team, it is also important to note some deficiencies in the teams play and set-up.

In the defense, a hesitance to attack the ball has left the back-line caught napping at-times and it must be discouraged.

Allowing opposing strikers space to test or plan attempts on goal has allowed teams get goals even when they seem harmless.

It must also be noted that most times, the defensive mid-fielders allow for a hole just in-front of the Center-backs, and that can be dangerous especially against quality attacking teams.

The lack of a really good replacement for Alex Song can also be a worry especially at the business end of the season.

Hopefully the players can stand up for the Manager who has put extraordinary faith in them and strive to achieving championship success.