Archive for January, 2010
Running the Gauntlet Part 2: Arsenal v Man United, Match Preview
A Battle of Epic Proportions
At the end of August the mild mannered Manc – Patrice Evra – he of the bigger ego than talent – declared it was a battle of “men vs boys.” He all but declared Arsenal’s title credentials over and Man United the best team in the league. It is hard to deny that United are a solid team, but in retrospect it is hard to deny that on that day Arsenal were clearly the better team for the entire match. This Sunday at the Emirates, the teams will play once again with Arsenal looking to show that the form they displayed at Old Trafford is true of their talent the only change they hope – the final score.
If Arsenal are going to show everyone they are for real and that they are in the title hunt for the remainder of the season, a win against Sir Alax Furgeson’s bunch is essential. Yes, Arsenal could draw and still run for the title. But a win against United, makes the case without a doubt. A win also should have carry over effect and keep the boys up for the match the following week against Chelsea. But before we can talk about Stamford Bridge – we have to look at this tie.
This fixture represents the 42nd time that Arsene Wenger and Furgeson have squared off against each other. Furgeson has won 16 and Arsene 14 with 11 draws in between. In their last 4 matches against Arsenal in all competitions, the Mancs have won 3. But in their last 4 league visits to the Gunners they have not won. Including all 3 at the Emriates.
United come into this match taking 13 points from their last 5 with Rooney scoring 7 goals in their match. However, they come to the Emirates without their defensive anchor Rio Ferdinand who is suspended for 4 matches after an elbowing incident against Hull City. Agains the big four United have not won any of their last 6 league away matches – losing 5 times.
Arsenal and United have each used their good form to take them – albeit briefly – to the summit of the EPL pile. The Gunners have a game in hand on United and will be looking to use this match to put some distance between themselves and the primary team from Manchster.
While the pairing of these two teams has died down in its furor in recent years this one looks to have all the flavours of Arsenal v United in the good years. In losing to United at Old Trafford, Wenger went on a directed rant at United for calling them – the anti-football team. His comments were more at the hacking nature of Paul Fletcher and frankly he has done little to make you think he is anything but what Wenger accuses him of.
Still the animosity between the two gaffers has given way to some sort of mutual admiration with Furgie amazed at the Gunners reamgergence and exorting any United fan who would sing the ugly paedophile chants at Wenger.
There will be power don’t you feel. The two teams are likley to serve up a thirller given everything that is online for the teams. It is a case of the league leading scorers taking on the current champions. It is an Arsenal squad that have owned the pitch at the Emirates this season going against a team that if you are sleeping even for a second will hurt you.
Arsenal look set to continue their “one in one out” policy in the trainers room. With Bendtner back for the attack Eduardo sits with a hamstring injury. With Song back for defensive dutis, Thomas Vermaelen is a possible scratch for the match with a calf injury. During the mid week match against Villa he took a shot and fears were that he had fractured hs fibula. Well, for the first time Arsenal had good injury news and he doesn’t have a broken fibula but he is still likely to miss the match.
Alexander Song and Emmanuel Eboue return just in time to strengthen the side. Also Nasri is full fit and having come on as a sub against Villa should likely start the match. The big change will be Arshavin back in the central role of the attack. Arsene thinking that the Russian is prime to break out for a match like this is going to make him the pinpoint of his attack. Given his ability it is likely he wont disappoint.
How the Match Should Play Out:
Again let’s cut right to it shall we – this is going to be a cracker contest. Something even nutrals should watch. Both teams will be hungry to attack each other and the tests will be on the defensive side. Arsenals defense should be fine even if Sol Campbell deputizes in place of the injured Vermaelen. The concern is the head to head match between Van der Sar and Almunia. Arsenal must get Van Der Sar moving and pressing his defensive cover early. Even though Vidic is back he is still suspect going back and forth between the pitch and the trainers table. Look for a game much like the first – Arsenal pressing the players and the ball and look for a Fabregas/Arshavin combo to break the Mancs heart.
Players to Watch:
Arsenal: Cesc Fabregas. This truly is match betweent he leagues two best in form players. Unfortunately in the previous match Cesc was not available to play having been injured two weeks prior on international duty. He is a the difference maker and will be essential to opening up the United defense.
United: Wayne Rooney. 7 Goals in 3 matches nuff said. He says its not a one man team – well with him being the primary scorer its hard to not see that right now.
Probable Starting XI:
Some slight changes possible
Injuries:
Arsenal: Diaby (calf) Djourou (knee) Eduardo (hamstring) Gibbs (foot) Merida (ankle) Van Persie (ankle) Vermaelen (leg)
United: Hargreaves (knee) O’Shea (thigh), Ferdinand (suspended)
Match Officials:
Referee: Chris Foy
Assistant Referees: Dave Bryan & Bob Pollock
Fourth Offical: Mark Clattenburg
Recent League Form:
Arsenal: DWWDW
United: WWDWW
TV Viewing:
US: FSC 11:00AM
UK: Sky Sports 1600 in 3D
FEEDS:
Gameday Chat will be open – www.youaremyarsenal.com/gamedaychat
YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal 2
United 1
Popularity: 7% [?]
Running the Gauntlet Step 1 Arsenal v Aston Villa Match Preview
It begins here
So it begins! The run of 4 games that could determine the outcome of Arsenal’s title hopes this season. They begin that run against a team that they have had success against on a regular basis – Aston Villa. In their last 17 meetings at Villa Park, Arsenal have only lost 3 times.
When the last met Villa and Arsenal were level on points. Villa were riding an 8 game winning streak and Arsenal were set for a very tight Christmas series. On the foot of a Cesc Fabregas cameo Arsenal owned Villa in the 2nd half and wound up winning emphatically 3-0. At the time we were all happy but as I said post game, great teams make good teams look bad and that is what Arsenal did to Martin O’Neill’s side.
Arsenal are currently riding a 9 game league unbeaten streak. They are the leagues leading scorers with 59 goals and are on course to shatter the single season goal record.
After beating Bolton in dramatic fashion last week, Arsenal were top of the league for a short period of time and their premier team status was once again vindicated. If Arsenal want to go back on top of the league and continue to pressure Chelsea and United they will need to win this game. It won’t be easy. While Arsenal lead the league in scoring Villa are one of the top defensive sides in the league.
The problem for Villa though is not defending it is scoring. Not so much in cup ties mind you but in the league matches. Ever since losing to Arsenal in the league, the Villains have yet not been all that efficient in scoring. However, their cup ties have seen a plethora of goals go in. Additionally, Villa would be silly to take anything from Stoke win over the Gunners this weekend. The side that comes out on Wednesday will likely be almost identical to the one that scored 3 on them in December.
While the side that went out against Stoke featured 7 starters under the age of 20, the side featured in this match will be slightly older and slightly more experienced. Additionally, it sees the large trainers list shrink up as both Niklas Bendtner and Samir Nasri will be on the bench as supersubs. Bendtner has been out since the North London derby and Nasri has been out for 2 weeks with a hamstring. If Arsenal are going to survive this run of matches both will be needed.
For what its worth if Bendtner wants to be the man, he will need to show his worth. I am still not sold on him. Yes, he has shown more promise and one of things I do like is the way he attacks defenders with forward movement. What he lacks is the ability to finish. Whatever the average the poor lad has more misses than hits. If he really wants to be the best in the league he needs to deliver on that promise. I don’t expect it to come right away – 3 months out is a long time for any one. But he comes back to the squad when they will need him. Maybe not so much for scoring but for the fact that he gives us height, depth and options on and off the bench.Oh and the scoring would be a bonus.
Arsene has clarly placed all his eggs in the EPL and CL baskets. He did as much with his squad selection this weekend. And while he did not try and throw away the match, he clearly had to prioritize what he needed to do. Had the fixture list not been so congested for the EPL the squad may have been different but given who play it was clearly the right choice and the boys will have the motivation once again to go for it.
I would look for Andrei Arshavin to show up for the next month as he seems to have the ability to show up for the games that matter. The magician he is has an uncanny knack of showing up for the right matches. Ask United, ask Liverpool what he can do in “big matches.” He may not score in every one of these matches but he is going to be a headache for some defenders that much is sure. I’d prefer he really make the United and Chelsea defense look like idiots but I’ll take any of them.
Anyway, whatever the outcome this match begins a list of fixtures that should have any Arsenal, nay any football fan salivating with delight.
How It Should Play Out:
Oh hell let’s just call it for what it – a hotly followed match by two good teams. However with so much at stake and Arsenal’s history at Villa Park – look for this one to be an eked out win.
Players to Watch:
Arsenal: Cesc Fabregas. Who else. He is red hot. He scores when he wants to. When he is up for it – he is literally the best midfielder in the EPL and possibly Europe right now.
Aston Villa: James Milner. If Theo Walcott wants to know who to emulate – he could do no better than watching Milner. Muscular, quick and good on the ball he will be more a thorn to Arsenal than Gabby Abonglahor.
Probable Starting XI:
Lucky guess?
Injuries:
Arsenal: Diaby (calf) Djourou (knee) Gibbs (foot), Merida (ankle) Van Persie (ankle)
Villa: Petrov (achilles), Albrighton (leg) Bouma (toe) Carew (knee) Harewood (foot) Reo-Coker (ankle) Salifou (compassionate leave) Warnock (shin)
Match Officials:
Referee: Lee Probert
Assistant Referees: Andy Newbold & Gary Stott
Fourth Official: Chris Foy
Recent League Form:
Arsenal: WWDWW
Villa: DLLWW
TV Broadcast:
Setanta: 17:00 On rebroadcast
No other known channels
Live Feeds:
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YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal – 2
Villa -1
Popularity: 5% [?]
Collective Leadership??
I have been meaning to write this for a while now. Today being a holiday I thought I’d snatch a bit of time and write it.
Well, we’re doing reasonably well till now and are in the title race due to being very consistent so far. Yes we lost a game in the FA Cup, I only hope that doesn’t derail our title bid, I can only hope. What I wanted to discuss apart from the normal Who played well – Who didn’t – Who should we buy or not is a more general question – How important is “leadership” on a football field?
I’d like to draw a bit of a parallel between football and cricket(coz that’s what I have been more exposed to for over 20 years). In cricket everything goes through the captain – he gets the time to think, consult, plan in advance and talk to people about strategies. There are drinks breaks, intervals and even mid inning breaks in the newest format. All in which plans can be reassessed and course corrected if nothing has gone according to plan. So the point being – A captain has a huge role here to play in strategising and in being a tactician. Sports like baseball from what I saw in the USA are even more remote controlled with a coach per base? So strategy I guess is a big part here as well. Now a quick look at football.
The manager is the closest thing that comes to a captain in other sports. He is the one who strategises etc. If it flops he is the fall guy, not the captain.. ever. The only time a captain is the fall guy is when his performances are bad. Which leads me to the question of the thread? What is the need of the captain at all in the first place? As per me the tune that Arsene sings all the while – ‘Collective Leadership’ is very valid.. from a footballing perspective. No its not another KoolAid article , let me explain.
Who were the most inspirational leadership figures (football) that you remember? Why? Is it possible that a guy would ever be made captain if he wasn’t up to scratch on the field – relatively speaking? No I guess. The role of the captain, tactic wise is very limited on a football field. Sure you learn a few tricks about positioning and movement and intelligent fouling with experience but all that still translates to ability. A captain in a football field really is just one type – One who can lead by example. Lift the team with his own performance – and implement what the manager says. Nothing more. Nothing less.
I’ve watched Arsenal since maybe the 2000-01 season and seriously followed it only after THAT WILTORD GOAL. I’ve seen a few leaders since then. Paddy who would destroy midfields , Gilberto the passive leader who upped his game and scored goals, Titi who was well a moody genius and now Cesc who is showing signs of shall we say a more skilful Steven Gerrard? But this being such a young team.. yes still…. Cesc cannot do it on hos own. And that is where the other people .. Gallas at CB, Rosicky, Arshavin, even RVP come in and all lead.. not the men.. but by example themselves. It does not have to be the captain who does it every time – the others can sense and lift the load off his shoulders whenever a problem that they can solve comes up. Really that’s what all successful teams do as well – its just not been said in the terms Arsene did.
In a nutshell – I think Arsene’s idea of multiple captain in football .. makes total sense – especially when you have a team growing together and when evryone takes that extra step and wants more at the same time. You can’t make em all captains but you got to keep them happy. It all points to distributed leadership – forget the armbands ; those are nice but not the end.
Lastly this season I think we’ve season various people step up at multiple points. RVP, Cesc, TV5 , Gallas, Rosicky… hell even the much maligned Denilson who once got into a fight. Oops taboo 
.. how can Denilson do anything good?
Anyway forget the last point?.. What do you think? Collective Leadership. I’d love to hear your thoughts. DAG – Can you delay the preview a bit so we get feedback on this? Or if not.. lets repost this after this weekend maybe where there is a one week gap.
Popularity: 3% [?]
Carrying the Big Mo!: Arsenal v Stoke: FA Cup Preview
Rest For The Weary?
So let me ask you this – you’ve gone top of the league. You’ve got league matches against Aston Villa, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool over the next two weeks. In order to stay in the hunt for the title you need a healthy 1st team. It’s a challenge because you don’t really have a healthy squad. Throw in added pressure of not winning any silverware over the last 4 years. How seriously do you take the FA Cup and what squad do you field?
Well we should get the answer to all that Sunday when Arsenal travel to the Britannia stadium to take on another set of hackers – Stoke. Stoke are a side more intent on trying to cut your legs out from under you than actually playing the game. They figure if they can’t play with you, they’re sure as hell going to make sure you can’t play at all. Jamiacan striker, Ricardo Fuller believes all you need to do to beat Arsenal is play a physical game with them.
“It has been proved in thepast. Chelsea and Bolton have them up and tried to bully them. We can be rought and aggressive when we need to. But we have quality as well, so we can mix it up.
It couldn’t be a better draw, as we did well against them here last year.”
Well, Mr Fuller I would say the operative word in your statement is TRIED. Against Chelsea the only one bullying anyone in that match was Drogba – which he pretty much does to every team (when he is not diving). And against Bolton did he really watch the match? A physical side was absolutely dismantled on TWO occassions by Arsenal. The bogey of physicality may have been true in previous seasons, but this Arsenal squad have shown a very un-Arsenallike quality of absorbing the beatings and focusing in on their game. Still in a few occassions they have meted out their own punishment. Rosicky (when healthy) and Vermaelen have shown themselves to be more than able to dishout as good as they get.
Still, the quandry for Arsenal is what squad to start in light of what happens in the fixture list right AFTER this FA Cup tie. Arsenal Their league hopes while they wouldn’t be quashed would take a hit if they weren’t healthy for the next four games. Players need to rest and be ready for that quantlet of matches. Surely coming out that with 8 or 9 points keeps them in it or still in first. Arsene confirmed that reserve players Jay-Emmanuel Thomas, .Kyle Bartley, Francis Coquelin, GIles Sunu, and Craig Eastmond have all been called up. All of them starting is unlikely but some of them should feature.
However, the best story of the match is the possibility that former Arsenal Captain Sol Campbell is set to get the nod to start at CB for the first time since he left the club in 2006. By all indications the former England man is in pretty good shape. Reporters following the club seem to think he looks like he is in pretty good shape and the manager has been pleasantly suprised at his fitness. And frankly if Stoke do want to play physical, I can’t think of anyone more suited for that type of game than the brick wall of a defender.
Stoke have to be wary of Arsenal, they are undefeated in their last nine matches in all competitions. They’ve won their last three on the road and have not lost a domestic away match since the 3-0 loss to Manchester City in the Carling Cup. Stoke for their part have won have gone back and forth in their league form winning their last match but drawing once and losing the previous three matches. Their challenge is tob ump an Arsenal side out of the FAC that have only been dismissed in the 4th round of the FA Cup once in the last nine seasons.
The task for the Gunners will be to beat a Stoke side that haven’t lost to Arsenal at home since 1990 (FA Cup). However, in the last seven times Arsenal and Stoke have met on in the FA Cup, Arsneal have proceeded to the next round each time.
Regardless of the stats the match is important if for anything else it continues the momentum that Arsenal have carried since their loss to Chelsea. And while most of the first teamers will rest and heal there should be enough talent to draw on to have an effective match against the Potters.
How the Match Should Play Out:
Look for Stoke to try and to do exactly as Fuller as said be physical with the Gunners. I think that this is at the peril of the club. If they are intent of just clubbing their way through the match and not playing it will only be a matter of time before they are carved open. If they don’t adopt a pressing style similar to what Everton and Bolton did they will surely be the next team vanquished. Look for Vela or Walcott up in the central role. I’d go for Walcott in the central role but knowing Wenger he is likely to put Vela there because of his ability to dish the ball. I expect Arsenal to try and outrun the Potters early and take the Britannia faithful out of it. A goal early opens up the game and takes away the possibility of a more physical match.
Players to Watch:
Arsenal: Sol Campbell. The link back to the glory days. He is set to return and is chomping at the bit to show he still has the class necessary to compete. Many will argue that Sol has lost his pace. Can I ask – when did Sol ever have pace? His ability to read the game was his strength. He has an uncanny to see a play develop and get himself in position to make the play he needs to make. When he featured against West Ham’s resereves he was clearly more talented than any reserve play and in dropped right back into directing the players on the pitch. It will be interesting to see if the experiement works. If it does – good one for Arsene if not – let the moaning begin.
Stoke: Robert Huth could make his 100th club start.
Probable Starting XIs:
Might be some slight changes
Injuries/Unavailable:
Arsenal: Nasri (hamstring), Merida (ankle), Diaby (ankle) Bendtner (groin) Djourou (knee) Gibbs (ankle) Van Persie (ankle) Senderos (foot), Ebou (ACoN) Song (ACoN)
Stoke: Beattie (knee), Delap (groin), Faye (ankle)
Match Officials:
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Assistant Referees: David Richardson & Jeremy Simpson
Fourth Official: Lee Probert
Recent League Form:
Arsenal: WWWWW
Stoke: DWLLL
Television Options:
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UK: ITV 1300 BST
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YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal – 2
Bolton – 1
Popularity: 4% [?]
Anyone For Seconds? Arsenal v Bolton, Match Preview
De Ja Vous? Haven't we met before?
Ed Note: I apologize well in advance for the weakness of this write up (no I am not looking for kudos) – but I am trying to fight off a nasty cold/flu thingy. But the post will get better with your comments.
When our two heros last met Bolton’s Brawny Beaters were soundly beaten by the finesse and grit of the Arsenal. With business unfinished and 3 days in between their last meeting, the Wanderers wander to North London to take on the Gunners in a more friendly envrionment.
During the match this past Sunday you had to give full respect (for a while at least) to Bolton. They were playing at home and playing in front of their new manager. They came ready to play and early in they were intent on showing they would not go easy into the darkness. But when Captain Fabtastic is in form there is little doubt what can happen on the pitch.
New manager Owen Coyle must have been slightly disappointed with his team. Coyle prefers an open flowing style akin to what Arsenal do. He is not one for hacking and beating. But when forced back as Bolton were during the match, the resorted to their usual tactics. Fabregas was their primary target and took the brunt of the beatings. With the exception of a 3 on 1 mugging of Diaby – the Bolton goon squad tried all match to throw the dynamic spaniard off his game.
But it only served to reinforce his resolve and he not only scored the fist goal but set up the second. He likely should’ve had a second goal and at least one penalty shot but his one goal was enough and the assist put aside any doubt as to the result.
The second meeting has higher stakes than the first. A 2-0 result will place Arsenal atop of the Premier League for the first time since the fluttered out of contention post Eduardo injury in 2009. The young guns haven’t been int his position and getting the league lead even for a while should go a long way to build confidence in their abilities. And given the adversity with the one for one injury policy at the Emirates the fact they are here shouldn’t diminsh the potential of this current crop of Gunners.
The Emirates leg of the matchup sees the return of Walcott and Denilson to the squad. But in true Arsenal fashion, Nasri, Ramsey and Merida take their spots. Also likely to return to his starting spot is Gael Clichy who missed the last 15 matches with a back injury. He will replace Aarmond Traore who while he played well for most of the matches, he teetered off in the last two. Whether that is because he knew he would be riding the bench soon or he just tired out having not played this much – it remains to be seen. And while it is easy to castigate the lad for his recent performances, kudos have to be given for the yeoman work he put in filling in for both Clichy and Gibbs.
Look for Craig Eastmond to get another start – only because Denilson is just back. Had Denilson had more time under his belt he could start. But I think given the how the injuries keep piling up, Wenger might keep in reserve as a sub until Eastmond tires out. Eastmond didn’t play horribly but you could clearly see in the last match that he tired out as the match went along. While Song is away my thought would be to keep Eastmond on the bench – and playing. Let’s face it Denilson isn’t a holding midfielder and doesn’t resemble one. If he has to start Arsene – put Diaby in the holding role.
Anway, I digress.
This will likely be another feisty affair in part because fat Phil Dowd did little in the first meeting to control the rampant pugilism. As a matter of fact the first yellow he gave was to Tomas “the tiny enforcer” Rosicky for a sly trip on a Bolton player. However, Bolton should keep in mind they are coming into an environment where Arsenal have been rock solid. In 10 matches at home they have only lost once. Arsene Wenger set at the beginning of the season a goal of making the Emriates a fortress for the squad – so far only Chelsea have managed to breach it. Another win puts the Gunners clearly atop the apex of the EPL table.
How the Game Should Play Out:
I think you saw how it will play out. Expect Bolton to press again and if that doesn’t work expect them to try and lay a beating down on the Gunners. The problem is this Arsenal squad is patient. They will do what they can to win the game. However, I would look for the Gunners to get an early jump early. Take the wind out of Bolton early and press their case. Fabregas almost did on the non-call on Jasskeleinen. Look for an Arsenal goal early and if they get it – I would suspect the route will be on – only because the boys will be up for what is at stake. Interesting note: Mark Clattenburg, today’s ref was the 4th official on Sunday, will what he saw then affect how he calls the match?
Possible Starting XI:
You got one better?
Injuries/Unavailable:
Arsenal: Nasri (hamstring), Merida (ankle), Wilshere (hamstring) Ramsey (hamstring) Bendtner (groin) Djourou (knee) Gibbs (ankle) Van Persie (ankle) Senderos (foot), Ebou (ACoN) Song (ACoN)
Bolton: Davis (knee) J O’Brien (knee) Shittu (ACoN)
Player to Watch:
Arsenal: Cesc Fabregas. He set the tone for the match and look for him to do it again.
Bolton: Owen Coyle. Yeah I know I am picking him again. He has had a couple more days to work with the squad he inherited. He will look to instill some more discipline and hopefully keep cooler heads on the pitch. Bolton didn’t look much like a football squad than a hockey team. That in my opinion takes them out of the game. If Coyle is going to get Bolton out of the relegation zone he will need to get them to concentrate on playing football and less on beating the crap out of players. If they do that they may actually win a game or two.
Match Officials:
Referee: Mark Clattenburg
Assistant Referees: Mick McDonough and John Flynn
Fourth Official: Chris Foy.
Recent League Form:
Arsenal: WWWWD
Bolton: LDDWD
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YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal – 3
Bolton – 0
Popularity: 9% [?]
Is This Thing On? Arsenal v Bolton Match Preview
Vous Ja De? The feeling this hasn't happened before?
How would you like to be a new manager in charge of a Premier League team? One fighting off relegation. One that has only won 2 home matches in the season. One that hasn’t had a clean sheet in 11 matches. How about one that has only won once in the league since October and one that has conceded more goals at home (21) than any other team? Well if you’d like that – you’d be in the same boat as Owen Coyle, the former Burnley manager who now finds himself at the helm of a struggling Bolton side.
Compound that with the fact that Bolton face an Arsenal side that haven’t lost since 29 November. A side that even with a myriad of injuries is still the league’s leading scoring. Or better still how about an Arsenal side that hasn’t scored less than 3 goals in the last 3 matches they have played against Bolton.
With such a big task ahead of them Coyle will be looking to exert his influence over the squad and the fans (who never took to predecessor Megson) . He could do that nicely with the scalp of one of the traditional big four squads. Better yet – he has the opportunity to do it twice within the next 4 days. This Wednesday will see Bolton travel to the Emirates to make up the match that was scheduled for 6 January but eventually was snowed out (the proverbial game in hand).
For their part Arsenal come to the RBK having had to fight for a point against a very determined Everton side. Additionally, Arsenal are suffering from the absence of their defencive steel with Alex Song away on ACoN duty. But all is not doom and gloom in Gunnerland.
Arsenal are starting to see the majority of their walking wounded make their way back to the pitch. Captain Cesc Fabregas has made the trip to Bolton and looks to start. In interviews this week the Catalan wunderkind said he feels 100% and has been rigorously training to get match fit. Arsene has to be relieved he is back. If any player embodies the heart and soul of the club it is the 22 year old Captain. Additionally, Gael Clichy has returned. He won’t start but he will be on the bench and if Aarmond Traore has a first half like had last week – the french left back could be deputized early in the second. Denilson is likely to make the trip but be in the final squad. He is still suffering from the niggly abdominal injury that mysteriously dropped him mid-field against Everton.
Coyle’s Bolton are going to have to tighten up against the prolific attack of Arsenal who have found the net in each of their last 7 games. They lead the league in goals scored with 53. They are on course to crash through the league record and score anywhere from 102 to 110 goals this season. Chants of 1-0 to Arsenal are no longer the norm. Its been more 3-1 or 3-0 to the Arsenal.
After a brief stutter against Sunderland and Chelsea the Gunners find themselves the most consistent team out of the potential league champions. Chelsea have yet to play without their big 4 Africans and while they won their last match, they haven’t played in 2 weeks and they have dropped more points they have won. Manchester United is having fits of consistency. Whatever the reason, injuries lack of talent, whatever, United are a lucky to even be 2nd right now. With a little help from Arsenal and a Brum OG United if they do not improve could be fighting for 3rd even 4th if they don’t improve soon. Their problem is the massive debt which likely is going to prohibit them from buying a major replacement this January. In fact both Ancelotti and Fergie have kept their word so far and HAVEN’T waded into the market. If they don’t and Arsene keeps his word and does – the league race is going to get real interesting come the end of January.
But Arsenal cannot worry about what the likes of United, Chelsea, Spurs or City do. Arsenal must take care of the matches they play and they have been doing just that. I have been shouting all season to anyone who will listen (but have you) – it is less about what you do against the big 4 and more about what you do against the lesser opposition. If we are to consider City a big club now the only lesser side we have lost to is Sunderland everyone else has bee drawn or won. Actually more than nought its a win. United won the league last season with a 1W 2L 3D against Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. They did what they had to do against the other sides – something they are unable to do this season. Arsenal in order to stay in the hunt and possibly win the league most copy that form. So far all indications are they are.
A nice little nugget to mention a lot has been made about our defence. It has been solid at points weak at others. The weakness I think we all agree has less to do with the back four than it does with the consistency of the man between the sticks. But Arsenal are starting to see something of a defencive renaissance (if you will). Their offside trap is actually the most effective in the league. They have managed to catch the opposition offside 88 times in this season’s league matches. If something could be done about the man in yellow (No I am talking about the streak down his spine) I think we could see an Arsenal defence that may not be as prolific as the glory days but pretty damn near. You can allow for defencive mistakes by the back four periodically. That’s expected. Hell, you can even expect periodic mistakes from the ‘keeper, but when the ‘keepers goals allowed average is close to his save average the problem lies not with the defencive back four but with the ‘keeper.
Finally, while we still do not have our elusive striker replacement Arsene did do something very un-Arsene like and bring Sol Campbell back. Never before has Wenger in 13 years of managing the red and white army brought any player who has left back to the fold. But as I’ve also mentioned this season’s opportunities do not seem lost on the french gaffer. Realizing that even youth needs to have an experienced mentor he reached back to his heydays and brought back a link to the invincible era. Sol is going to be a valuable learning tool for the younger defencive players and even so for the young captain. He can be a voice in the locker room that maybe didn’t exist before. And come on – the man is still a freakin’ oak tree. In a close game with a 2-1 lead on the line bring him in and let him eat up some attackers. It was clear in the reserve match against West Ham he still has something in him. He absolutely controlled the attackers and looked a class above anyone on the pitch except JET. Overall this a good signing for more than just the player depth.
How this match will play out:
I expect Bolton to try and come out and press Arsenal much like Everton did. Everton did an outstanding job in the first half of controlling the passing the lanes and forcing Arsenal to either layoff the pass earlier than they wanted to or steal the pass. However, Everton are a more talented side and David Moyes has had more time to prepare his squad than Coyle has with Bolton. However, the players will be looking to impress their new boss and will likely come out with some verve. Arsenal though should be strengthened by the return of Cesc Fabregas. As Fabregas goes so does the team. Not that it can’t win without him but with him its a little easier. Plus I think Arshavin’s game goes to another level when he plays with Fabregas. Overall I expect the Gunners to do the normal hold possession and look for the right opportunity to open the match up. That couldhappen early or after 15 minutes (when most of their goals have been scored). Either way I don’t expect that the new manager bounce will have too much effect on the match.
Probable Starting XI:
Your guess is as good as mine
Injuries/Unavailable:
Arsenal: Walcott (back) Wilshere (hamstring) Ramsey (hamstring) Bendtner (groin) Denilson (abdomen) Djourou (knee) Gibbs (ankle) Van Persie (ankle) Senderos (foot), Ebou (ACoN) Song (ACoN)
Bolton: Davis (knee) J O’Brien (knee) Shittu (ACoN)
Player to Watch:
Arsenal: Cesc Fabregas. The little engine that could. He is likely the best midfielder in the world right now. If he isn’t tell me who is.
Bolton: Owen Coyle. Okay so he isn’t a player but the former Burnley boss starts his Bolton career against a rather big fish. It will take some time before his style of play is fully integrated into the squad. You wonder if it is enough. At Burnley had they been relegated he likely would still have a job and been praised for having his side play good football. If he doesn’t prevent Bolton from relegation he’ll likely be wishing he had never left Burnley.
Match Officials:
Referee: Phil Dowd
Assistant Referees: Mark Scholes & Patrick Keane
Fourth Official: Mark Clattenburg
Recent League Form:
Arsenal: DWWWD
Bolton: DDWDL
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YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal – 3
Bolton – 1
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We’ve Got Sol But Not A Soldier
Have we got our Sol back?
Well the speculation started in late December – Arsene Wenger could very well do something he has never done before and re-sign a player he let leave. Better yet, re-sign a player who left and was well over the age bracket most Arsenal players fall into.
But this past Tuesday with all a twitter abuzz the Daily Mail (and a very eager Arsenal employee) announced to the world that Sol Campbell – Arsenal’s 15th greatest player – was set to feature in the Tuesday night reserve match against West Ham. It was an audition of sorts.
Well by all indications Sol Campbell has returned to North London fold. Arsene Wenger does something shocking to most fans. And in the end whether he can still play as dominating as he once did he brings to the club a tie-in to one of the club’s greatest eras of football. He brings leadership and a keen idea on what it takes to win at the highest level of football. Finally, he can act as a player coach and work to bring younger Arsenal players along.
Sol Campbell’s recent story is not unknown. After leaving Pompey at the end of last season he astonishingly signed a contract with League 2 side Notts County and after one match suddenly departed – claiming that what he was promised was not what he saw going on. Then on 22 September he walked out on the club and his contract voided by mutual consent.
After the sudden departure Sol asked Arsene Wenger if he could work out with the first team to try and keep fit in hopes of signing with a club in January. During his time with the first team, Arsene must have been impressed with what he saw from the old warrior. Arsene made comments about surprised he was at Sol’s fitness and prior to January came out and said he was sure Sol would get signed by a Premier League club. By all indications Hull and Newcastle United had inquired about his services. But something had to have been up with Arsenal as Sol laid off those early suitors and stayed training with Arsenal.
I believe that Arsene was so impressed with Sol’s training regimine that he decided to bring him back as early as December. All the indications were there. The subtle praise, etc.
Now you may ask why not Vierra -surely he is a better player than Sol. In his heyday Paddy was a super Arsenal star – no doubt about it. his tussles in the midfield are legendary. He was the heart of the club at that time. But when you look at a central midfielder vs a central defender – it is all about the legs. Arsene clearly thinks (and so do a lot of others) that Paddy’s legs are gone. If he didn’t he would’ve brought him in the summer. Even as a backup to our current midfield the required running he has to put in, Arsene likely thinks is behind him. The central defender role while he does have to run doesn’t not have to cover nearly as much of the pitch as a midfielder would.
Sol is still a tree and likely to hard to move. I can see him getting in to games where we are up 2-0, 2-1 and we are backing up the bus so to speak (if that is ever possible for Arsenal to do). He also adds height to the set piece play – who can ever forget his opening goal in the CL final from an Henry free kick. Also, and I know that Didier Drogba is younger and faster but did you know that he has never scored on Sol Campbell while Sol was in an Arsenal shirt? Now that could be because there was very little cross over in their tenures. I’m just saying.
I am not going to bother you with a history of Sol’s time at the club. We’re all aware of how instrumental he was in that invincible season and how good he was with Kolo Toure. Sure he left under a cloud but in listening to him recently he has sounded regretful for that and he is at least saying all the right things you’d want from a senior team player.
In Other News:
- Looks like Cesc is back for the Bolton match this Sunday. He says his hamstring is 100% and that while the team had its Bolton game cancelled he has been rehabbing and feels pretty good. Thank goodness for his return. We all know how good this squad is with its own Personal Jesus (I am going for a song theme today)
- With the signing of Campbell, surely Senderos is on his way out. He wants out. He hasn’t played and he wants to play ahead of the WC. Its only a matter of time.
- The deal I’d like to see – swap Senderos for Saha from Everton. Saha is having contract issues and they are at an impasse so much so that the player is unmotivated. He is a decent size – 6′ 1″ and isn’t cup tied. And he has 10 goals in 17 appearances for Everton so far. And hey they need the defensive help.
- Jack Wilshere is going out on loan. To whom remains to be seen. He’d like to go to West Ham the team he followed as a kid (2 years ago – HA). Steve McClaren has asked about him coming to FC Twente and Owen Coyle who had wanted him at Burnley now wants him to go Bolton.
- I think Jay Emmanuel Thomas needs to get some runs out with the first team. Just saying a hat trick even in a reserve match gets the ears pricked up.
- It’s January 14th and we still don’t have a striker. Like you needed reminding of that.
- Clichy is soon to come back to the club (Another week or so), Nicky B is a fortnight away to returning and Gibbs’ return looks to be moved up a month.
- If you believe anything the press writes then apparently one of Arsene’s top targets, Marouane Chamakh is set to sign with Liverpool this summer. Apparently a £25 million deal has been agreed upon in principle. I am saying it now – it will not last. Let’s see – Pool who look like they will not make Champion’s League next year, who are in debt to the hilt and have absolutely no money and are likely to be sellers not buyers come summer – have that much to spend, I doubt it. Plus once Chamakh sees they are no longer in the CL he will run to the next team that wants him.
Okay that’s it for now. Match Preview will be up on Saturday. I will try and be in Gameday Chat on Saturday but I am going to be spending some time with the kids ahead of me time during Sunday’s match. This post was also to make sure you lot didn’t start bitching about having scroll down to read the replies.
Finally -
Q: What do you get when Chelsea don’t win the EPL title this season?
A: 40,000 more Arsenal fans.
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A Well UNdeserved Point, Arsenal 2 – Everton 2, Post Match Review
I am going to come right out and say it – we got away with one we had absolutely no business getting away with. On the day Everton were simply the better side and outplayed and outhustled Arsenal for most of the match. In fact you would be hard pressed to identify any moment in the first half at least where anything resembling an Arsenal squad had showed up on the pitch.
Everton had a solid game plan from the start, press high and close off any Arsenal passing lanes. Combine that aggression with bad conditions for passing and the combination was lethal on a pass happy team.No, I am not saying the weather was the reason why Arsenal did not win. I am saying it certainly helped Everton carry out their plan a little more effectively. No, all the kudos must rest with David Moyes and his lads for doing exactly what they wanted to against Arsenal.
Dude - Your Killing Me Here!
I don’t want to spend too much time going over play for play, goal for goal but there are a few observations that need to be discussed. When the smallest man on the pitch scores from a free header on a corner – someone has seriously done something wrong. And make no mistake about it – everyone was at fault at some point in the game. But the first goal the defenders let Osman beat them and then in typical Almunia fashion he stayed riveted to one spot on the goal line. Denilson who actually wound up heading the ball into the net really didn’t have much of a play to make.
Everton’s 2nd goal was Arsenal plainly getting beat. Traore had a woeful game ALL DAY. He was consistently beat by Landon Donovan. And he was out of position on nearly every play. His ONLY saving grace were two beautiful crosses that nearly set Arsenal up for winning goals. Other than that the boy who had been playing quite well since Gibbs went down, was one of the major scapegoats for the day’s ineffectiveness.
However, if there is a positive to take away from this match it is two things. 1.) Teams who are successful often times have to dig down to achieve something. Arsenal were outplayed and yet they managed to create scoring chances. They did what you have to do on a day when things don’t go well and that is – shoot the damn ball. Everyone will argue the fact that Arsena;’s two goals were off of deflections. Oh well. So what. Sometimes ugly is what is needed. Sometimes pretty don’t cut it. Denilson put the ball on net and thankfully it hit someone and misdirected and Rosicky did the same. Though Rosicky’s had a better chance of hitting the back of the net than Denilson’s originally did. 2. We played our game in hand and while we could ‘ve used the upward momentum the draw didn’t hurt us either. Had we lost – that would’ve been another story.
So Arsenal take their first draw at the Emirates this season. They are still unbeaten in 8 matches in all competitions. Only Birmingham is better with a 12 game unbeaten run. Still Arsenal are going to seriously need to fix some things if they want to continue.
Manuel Almunia showed every possibly reason why Gooners everywhere want the guy gone. From nearly getting Bacary Sagna killed to taking out Aarmond Traore, he wasn’t woeful – whatever is worse than woeful that describes Almunia. While the defence wasn’t great they still didn’t give many chances to Everton. The problem is the chances Everton got Almunia let in. He clearly doesn’t pay attention to the flow of the game. If he did he would’ve seen the player near Sagna and gone in a different direction rather than dishing it out on the run. He’s lucky that Sagna is a good player and looks at what is going on and he is equally as lucky Sagna isn’t out with a broken foot – from the tackle he received having to slow up and look back to collect Manny’s pitiful attempt for a clearing pass. Finally either he doesn’t understand the role of calling off players (Chelsea Vermaelen OG and running into Traore) or he is too damn stupid to do it. Either way in order to be an effective keeper you need to have command of the players in a and around your penalty box. Almunia doesn’t have that ability. Say what you will about Fabianski, he does talk to his team alot on the pitch. Yes, he has his own issues but he does a better job of marshalling the forces if you will.
The defence probably had one of its worst performances of the season. They were pressed into making mistakes and did very little right to keep the box clear on set pieces. Traore specifically got found out. Whether it was a mental thing because he knows Clichy is coming back or whether he just didn’t adapt or prepare well enough – Landon Donovan had him in his back pocket all day and on Everton’s second goal his weak tackle resulted in letting Pienaar free enough to be behind the team and have a free run on Almunia.
Rosicky Scores
Overall there are numerous performances to single out as disgraceful, whether it was Traore, Denilson’s inappropriateness at the holding role, Arshavin not showing up until the last 10 minutes., or Eduardo’s contininuing ineffectiveness there was tonnes of blame to go around. Noone from the squad should be happy with the point and if there were a mechanism to do so, the should give two points back to Everton for outplaying them.
A final note – something I am sure the Wenger haters won’t like and will accuse me of drinking the Kool Aid. I do not think the importance of this season is lost on Arsene. All season long he has been doing some un-Arsene like behaviour. I would never expect Arsene to come out and say his team got out played. We know the usual story – we deserved the point, fought hard, yada yada yada. Well yesterday he basically came out and said we did not play our game, they were better than us and I am relieved we got the point. He did use the spirit line but only AFTER his negative comments. If Arsene buys in January it will only add to the speculation that Arsene has changed somehow. He never has signaled an intention to buy anyone, especially in January and by all means every indication is he will this January. Who that will be remains to be seen but I see a more aggressive Arsene than in the past. What that means only time will tell.
But let’s look on the bright side shall we – United and Liverpool both look in worse shape than us. If you didn’t watch United’s match yesterday they were more lucky than us to come away with a point and if not for an OG they would’ve lost their 6th EPL match of the season. As it is we lose no ground on them and since they played we still have a game in hand on the Red Devils. That could be useful come the end of the season.
Next up – 17 January v Bolton at the Reebok (not the game in hand)
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Right Back Where We Started: Arsenal v Everton, Match Preview
Can recent history repeat itself
When these two teams last met, it was match day 1 of the 2009/2010 season. Now at the start of the second half of the season, Arsenal and Everton meet again with both teams at opposite ends of the the table. Based on recent form Everton haved moved away from relegation danger and are squarley in the middle of the table while Arsenal are providing upward pressure on the league leading Chelsea.
Everton are hoping to continue their current form, unbeaten in their last 5 matches and collecting 7 points. They come to the Emirates having beaten Carlisle in the FA Cup and are looking to exact an amount of revenge on the Gunners. In order to do that though, David Moyes’ side will need to overcome their own injury problems. Everton currently have 9 players sitting out, one of which is Louis Saha. He is a match time decision and could either start at striker or sit out completely. Either way the merserysiders will need all the help they can muster to take on the in form Arsenal side.
We don’t need to rehash where the squad were a month ago. We all know and felt deeply wounded by the 3-0 loss against Chelsea. But here we are a month and half later only 4 points off the lead. Had we managed to play and beat Bolton in the midweek makeup match Arsenal could be looking at a chance of going ahead (since Chelsea’s match against Hull has been cancelled). And while Arsene is bemoaning the back log of games to come, the side cannot lose its forward momentum.
In order to keep their pressure on United and Chelsea, Arsenal need to take over where they left off against Everton. At the start of the season, Arsenal emphatically stated their intent by drubbing the blues 6-1. Louis’ Saha’s loan goal came when the match was all but over in the 90th minute. The match was a display of the fire power Arsenal had and featured a debutant goal by lynchpin Thomas Vermaelen. When signed he was noted as being “whodat?” but now all Gooners know who is and is part of the current Arsenal resurgence.
Since that match in August, Arsenal have gone on an impressive run. Yes, they have had their stumbles but overall they are lately the more consistent of the contending clubs. Additionally, they really look like the only top club right now who can string together wins of 8 or more. The other sides all have issues that could prevent them from doing it. And if Arsenal are able to maintain a model of consistency they have a better than average chance of nipping the trophy and breaking the duopoly established by Chelsea and Manchester United over the last 5 years
The team still leads the league in scoring, even with a large portion of its attack resting their heels int he trainers room. At home they have only lost one time and have to draw. Their last 3 home mathches have been cleansheets and they continue to score on average 3 goals per match. Even with the injuries there hasn’t been a let up in the club’s overall efficiency. And while the injuries may lead people to moan about the squad’s injuries no other squad has done as well this season with so many gone. Arsenal have managed to continue their scoring pace, they’ve been the more consistent team out of the conenders of late and should the weather permit, they have a favorable run of matches leading into the end of January – where they the once again play the likes of United, Chelsea and Pool.
Of course injuries and the Africa Cup of Nations leave the team a little threadbare and you wonder how long this success can continue. Alex Song and Emmanuel Eboue are away on ACoN duty. Song’s absence could be the hardest felt. Simply put the 22 midfielder has quietly gone about his duty and been a solid and steadfast member of the swuad. He has played the holding midfielder role with all the professionalism and skill of some of the more seasoned players in the league. The kind of consistency he has given the team will be hard to replace but either Denilson or Diaby will be deputized to do so.
Diaby in the meantime has steadily improved from game to game. He is a scoring threat and when he is allowed to play an up and down game he is a threat to push defences back onto their heels. He is constantly improving his play and is showing some keen skill in retaining the ball and passing it to his on feild partners. Additionally it looks like his teammates are growing in confidence to bring him into the game whereas in the past that would’ve been unlikely. Diaby is one of a few players that will need to step up big in order for Arsenal’s run to continue.
Still, the squad is beset with injuries, Cesc Fabregas, and Walcott are still out and won’t return. Depending on which tabloid you believe, Nicholas Bendtner is either two weeks from returning or in need of more surgery. Gael Clichy is supposedly back for training with the possibility of featuring in next week’s matches.
Today’s match is a big “if” as of right now. Like the Bolton fixture and many of the fixtures around the league, it is being threatened by the continuing snow that is gripping Britain. Arseneal will hope to keep this match scheduled as they want to keep their momementum up. Considering the Chelsea match has already been cancelled it is quite possible that this game if played will become the defacto “Game in hand” that Bolton was supposed to be.
Finally, Arsenal want to play because their form since the Chelsea loss has been amazing. With 7 game played since then they have 6 wins and 1 draw. They’ve managed to tighten things up further and they been able to keep a few clean sheets. Players are starting to get rolling again, most notable Eduardo, who has 3 goals in his last four matches and coming intot his match they are playing a team whom when they play at home they completely own – Arsenal are an astounding 12 W 1D in their last 13 matches against Everton at the Emirates and Highbury.
How the Match Should Play Out:
If it’s played out, I find it hard to see Everton muster the necesssary skill to beat Arsenal. While the Blues have been on a good run of form late, they still lake a solid defence and only TIm Howard has managed to make it look respectable, David Moyes knows Arsenal can carve that defence up. Additionally, Everton have too many major contributors out or questionable for this fixture. They had a lot of those players available when they last played. To have them come to the Emirates without those players places a lot of pressure on the squad. Arsenal for their part will look to take Everton out of the game early. As always, expect them to won possession and try and find a way to open up the game. Trarore and Sagna have been doing a yeoman’s job down the wing and will be essential to bringing the ball deep into the Everton side of th pitch. Look for the usual creative play and a solid match that will result in Arsenal’s closing down the gap further on Chelsea.
Players to Watch:
Arsenal: Aaron Ramsey. Because he was the player to watch at Bolton and since we didn’t play that match he is again. Yeah I know its an easy way out but all the reasons still hold true – he is coming on of late, he is doing a stand up job filling in for Fabregas and when he has the ball the around the net you know he is likely to score most of the time.
Everton: Landon Donovon. It really should be Louis Saha (if he plays) but the American forward makes his EPL and Everton debut and is likely to feature onthe bench. I am going to take particular interest in watching him play as I do whenever a known American player plays against my favourite team. If Landon can have a good match against Arsenal – immediately it has imapct for Everton but for the USMNT it could mean more.
Probable Starting XI’s:
No SNOW!!!
Injuries/Unavailable:
Arsenal: Bendtner (groin), Clichy (back), Djourou (knee), Fabregas (Hamstring), Wilshere (hamstring), Gibbs (foot), Van Persie (ankle), Walcott (side), Eboue & Song (ACoN)
Everton: Anichebe (knee), Arteta (knee), Distin, (hamstring) Gosling (knee), Jagielka (knee) Rodwell ( hamstring), Jo (club suspension), Yakubu & Yobo (ACoN)
Match Officials:
Referee: Peter Walton
Assistant Referees: Nigel Bannister & Simon Beck
Fourth Official: Andy D’Urso
Recent League Form
Arsenal: WWWDW
Everton: WDDDD
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Arsenal: 3
Everton: 1
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A Game In Hand is Worth? Arsenal v Bolton; Match Preview
A Game In Hand is Worth 2nd Place
This is it! It’s here. The bloody match we’ve all been talking about. The one we’ve all been illuding to when there is a discussion about our position in the table and our position in the EPL title race. That’s right its time for the ever illusive game-in-hand to be played. It’s time for Bolton to come to the Emirates for their first EPL match up of the season.
I am not sure we can rehash the usual story that precedes matches recently – you know the one- a month ago we were out of the title race . . . We know that story. Well it’s a month later and despite all the obvious obstacles Arsenal find themselves right in the middle of the title race, securely in 3rd place and with a solid chance of moving into 2nd place and one point behind leaders Chelsea.
The Gunners face the Bolton Wanderers, a club in that is in turmoil. They are without a manager and will be led onto the pitch byassistant manager, Chris Evans and first team coach Steven Wigley.
Bolton when led by Big Same Allardyce were considered to be a bogey side for Arsenal. Either drawing them or forcing a long arduous battle for a point. Their last win however on Arsenal’s home turf was in 1994. As a matter of fact Bolton have only won 1 of their last 20 league matches in London. And to make matters worse this season they have only won once in their last 9 league matches.
These are not stats that put fear into the hearts of opponents. But if Leeds FA Cup win over Manchester United showed us anything, it showed us that no opponent should be underestimated.
The Gunners come into this match undefeated in their last 7 matches in all competitions. The squad that is beset with injuries and missing players scored 10 points in 3 matches and did not miss a beat in its holiday fixture set up.
Arsene Wenger has worked hard to keep his side focused on the task at hand. A win today leap frogs the team over Manchester United and places them in 2nd - 1 point behind Chelsea.
The early season scoring form has returned and once again many players are chipping in.But the one thing the last few matches has shown is the emergence of welsh wunder kid – Aaron Ramsey. In league matches and cup ties, the youngster is showing exactly why Arsene made such a stink out of signing the lad. While he does not yet possess the prowess of Cesc Fabregas, he is slowly placing his mark on the team.
He plays with a thought process in the game that is well beyond his years and experience. And he is not afraid of the tough stuff – something a lot of teams figure they can use to throw the team off its game. With Fabregas out for at least another week or so, Ramsey needs to become a dominant force in these next few mathes. We need to see that development continue. The game against Bolton offers him the chance to continue that development.
Also coming on lately is Eduardo. The crozillian with the soft ankle has managed to score in three matches in a row. While they have not all been beautiful, scoring leads to confidence and that is something Dudu has missed of late. Like Ramsey, Arsenal are going to need Eduardo to continue pushing this current form and he needs to become a central part of what the team do on the field.
Arsenal have worked hard to make the Emirates a fortress. Wth the exception of the loss to Chelsea, Arsenal have not lost at home. In the last three league matches at the Emirates, Arsenal have yet to concede a goal. With Bolton ruderless right now and in all sorts of disarray this an opponent that is ripe for the taking. And as you all know, I’ve said who cares what you do against the big four – its what you do against the lesser opposition that really counts. So far, Arsenal have done their job. They should do it again.
How It Should Play Out:
The real question is – will it play out. Bad weather has forced the cancellation of all the midweek Carling Cup fixtures. While the Emirates has a ground-heated pitch, roads and walkways around the stadium could be treacherous. With Bolton still reeling from the firing of Gary Megson and a permanant replacement yet to be found, the Wanderers are a team to take advantage of. I suspect we’ll see a match much like the most recent league matches, with Arsenal pressing and probbing until the right moment. Arsenal even with all their injuries will have two much quality for Bolton to handle.
Players to Watch:
Arsenal: Aaron Ramsey. With Cesc Fabregas out he has begun to show his worth. He has played solidly and plays years above his true age. Still prone to some mistakes he is quickly maturing and is likely the next big Arsenal star.
Bolton: Ivan Klasnic. Bolton’s leading scorer will need to step up big if the Wanderers are to pull out a draw or a shock defeat
Probable Starting XI’s:
Arsenal: Almunia, Gallas, Vermaelen, Sagna, Traore, Denilson, Ramsey, Diaby, Nasri, Arshavin, Eduardo
Bolton: Jaaskelainen, Cahill, Steinsson, Knight, Robinson, Taylor Muamba, Cohen, Lee, Davies, Klasnic
Injuries & Unavailable:
Arsenal: Bendtner (groin), Clichy (back), Djourou (knee), Fabregas (hamstring), Gibbs (foot), Song (Africa Cup of Nations), van Persie (ankle), Walcott (side strain)
Bolton: Davis (knee), O’Brien (knee), Riga (hamstring)
Match Officials:
Referre: Howard Webb
Assistant referees: Ceri Richards & Mike Mullarkey
Fourth Official: Kevin Friend
Recent League Form:
Arsenal: WWWDW
Bolton: DDWDL
Television Schedule:
US: Setanta/Setanta-i 2:45PM EST
UK: Sky Sports 1 1945BST
Online Feeds:
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GAMEDAY CHAT: Will Be Open www.youaremyarsenal.com/gamedaychat
YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal: 3
Bolton: 0
Popularity: 5% [?]
Holding In Reserve: Arsenal v West Ham, Match Preview (FA Cup 3rd Round)
The Battle of Who's Reserves Are Better!
So here is some math for you - what do you get when you add two teams riddle by injuries plus, one relegation fight and one championship push? Why you get two teams relying on reserves to propel them into the next round of the FA Cup. You get Arsenal versus West Ham redux.
This fixture is one of three all Premier League ties in the third round and is the only true London derby of the group. This meeting between them in the FA Cup is the ninth time they have drawn each other. West Ham hold the high hand in meetings progressing 5 out of the 8 previous times they have clashed. However the last FA Cup meeting in the 1998 quarter finals saw a replay at Upton Park where the Gunners won 4-3 on penalties. They would go on to beat Newcastle United 2-0 in the final and hoist the trophy.
West Ham are currently in a pitched fight to stay up int eh premier league and have only managed to take 4 points from their last 6 league games. Additionaly Gianfranco Zola will likely be with outhe Mark Noble, Scott Parker, Danny Gabbidon and Herita Illuinga. as they are all dealing with hamstring injures. Guillermo Franco is suspended and Carlton Cole and Kieron Dryer are out for an unknown duration due to injures. With the limited resources he has available, Zola has had to recall Freddie Sears from his loan to Crystal Palace.
West Ham know they can play with the big boys. Prior to the Christmas fixtures West Ham valiantly fought Chelsea to a draw and we can’t forget about the draw with Arsenal at Upton Park in October.
The Gunners are one of the hottest teams in the EPL right now. They have captured 16 of a possible 18 points in all league games. They have won their last 3 matches with an aggregate score of 10-1 all without the services of a certified central forward.
The list of injuries is long and well known by all Gooners. Fabrgas, Denilson, and Walcott are all recent additions (again) toi the training table squad. However, Tomas Rosicky is back and should feature in the squad.
Arsene Wenger is planning on reseting key players. He is in it to win for the EPL and needs to get those essential players some down time for the long haul ahead.
“I will have to rest some players because there were some knowcks against Portsmouth,” Wenger recently said. “Bolton is a very important game for us [the game in hand], so we want to keep our momentum going.”
“I will change some players that is for sure. But while the Carling Cup, is, for us, exclusively for young players, the FA Cup is one to win.”
“A Cup is a Cup and we want to do well. A season is judged on the overall achievement. People look to who has won the trophies but I look as well at how we have done and how consistently we have played.”
Even so the squad that Arsene fields won’t warm the cockles of anyone’s heart (at least those that insist he must field the strongest sides) who want him to win this. It will likely be a squad mostly of reserves, returning injured, and Alexander Song. Song has yet to depart for the Africa Cup and is intent on making an impact for his departure. Fully expect also that in addition to Song and Rosicky, Fabianksi, Silvestre and possibly Senderos will play. Senderos will only play though if he clears a physical. His injuries are unkown (probably – does Arsene have a deal in the works is more like it.) However, even an Arsenal reserve squad are likely to be chock full of more talent than a West Ham reserve squad (which is what Zola will likely field given all the injuries to his squad.)
So let’s get to it shall we?
How the game should play out:
Regardless of the squad Arsene fields it is likely going to be made up of players who are all looking to show something to Le Boss. With the Carling Cup no longer a chance to do so, some of the young players – like Merida, Eastmond, Gilbert, Wilshere and Ramsey will likely be the featured stars of the day. Given their ability I suspect the match will go one of two ways – wide open attacking football with Merida and Ramsey the likely heros of the day or a slow dirge of a match that needs and injection of seniority before the match takes off. I hope for open option.
Players to Watch:
Arsenal: Alexander Song. Song has been a beast this season. Unfortunately this match against West Ham is the last time we could see him in the red and white strip for the next four weeks. I’ve always thought Song to be the low key kind of player but after the Pompey match his enthusiasm was very evident and he was quite vocal about the club and his affinity for it. He desperately wants to make sure that Arsenal is seen off to success in this competition and i am sure the young Cameroonian will do so.
West Ham: Matthew Upson. If he is healthy and plays he will be the centre of attention – not so much for what he could do against Arsenal but because a slew of teams are looking at him as a possible January buy.
Probable Starting XI (ed note: Due to the holiday and graphics won’t return until next Saturday’s match against Bolton. – DAG.)
Arsenal: Fabianski, Gilbert, Senderos, Silvestre, Traore, Merida, Eastmond, Ramsey, Wilshere, Rosicky, Vela.
West Ham: Green, Upson, Spector, Tomkins, Jimenez, Kovac, Faubert, Behrami, Collison, Franco, Diamanti
Injuries:
Arsenal: Walcott (chest), Denilson (back), Fabregas (hamstring), Gibbs (foot), Van Persie (ankle), Clichy (back), Bendtner (groin), Djourou (knee)
West Ham: Ilunga (hamstring), Parker (hamstring), Noble (hamstring), Gabbidon (hamstring), Dyer (hamstring), Hines (knee), Cole (knee), Davenport (hip), Boa Morte (ACL)
Recent Form:
Arsenal: WWWDW
West Ham: LWDLL
Match Officials:
Referee: Mark Clattenburg
Assistant referees: Stephen Child & Shaun Procter-Green
Fourth Offical: Peter Walton
Television Broadcasts:
US: Setanta Sports 11:15 AM EST
UK: ITV 1615 BST
Possible Video Streams:
Please note, YouAreMyArsenal.com is not responsible for the content contained on any of these links – DAG
GAMEDAY CHAT will be open. www.youaremyarsenal.com/gamedaychat
YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal – 2
West Ham – 0
Popularity: 7% [?]
