Time to Begin the Build Up

Tonight: Arsenal v Everton.


At home the Gunners should be looking to correct the course. The match against Huddersfield was a warning. Let your foot off the gas and even the least likely will do their best to catch you.


A good run is needed, with a return to form and the confidence that will bring to the squad. Barcelona is on the horizon and the next two games need to be seen as a "ramping-up" opportunity.


Good support from the fans is crucial and a solid win tonight will go long way toward improving the sometimes restrained displays of encouragement echoing through the Emirates.


We will miss Nasri, but have the personnel to cover in his absence.




Victoria Concordia Crescit

Leeds United 1 - Arsenal 3

Nasri 5, Sagna 35, RVP 76


Playing good football at Elland Road, knocking the stuffing out of their loyal and boisterous home supporters, and advancing in the FA Cup, Arsenal capitalized on the confidence gained against West Ham at the weekend. A solid performance showcasing talent at both ends of the pitch.

Excellent games by Gibbs, RVP, and Sagna impressed. The currently "out of favor" Arshavin has predictably been the main focus of those who enjoy taking the "glass half empty" point of view, but to his credit he was on the receiving end of a great deal of rough treatment and never slowed in his efforts to be involved and contribute.

Of course Arsenal should never have allowed themselves to be in this position but the response to their own dismal effort at the Emirates was inspired. Leeds was aggressive and never appeared willing to concede defeat. Some are saying that they would be a welcome addition to the Premiere League next year, and their style of play would indeed fit in well with several BPL mainstays.

The first goal resulted from wonderful play by the Russian and this seasons MVP Nasri, sending a clear message that the "real" Arsenal team had shown up with full intention. 

Sagna's blast was a shocker. Unexpected by Arsenal fans and certainly Schmeichel, it is fascinating to imagine the effect more of those would have in League play, opening up defenses and allowing more space for the Arsenal attack in front of goal.

To Leeds credit, they responded well, and despite questionable aggression against Arshavin to win the ball deep in Arsenal territory, hit back with a storming shot perhaps equally unexpected by the home supporters.

Arsenal was in control however, and any apprehension Gunner fans may have had expecting a dip in focus following the half time break were quickly dispelled. The energy level maintained, the desire evident. Wenger wisely substituted late to ensure fresh legs and the dividend just reward. A fine cross by Bendtner met by RVP and the game was finished.

A string of home fixtures including the return of Ipswich to progress in the Carling Cup requires that Arsenal maintain current form. The opportunity to avenge the earlier draw with Wigan, double up on a patchy Everton squad, and knock out another lower level team in the FA Cup should be approached with optimism. A good run will do wonders for the team prior to a tough trip away to Newcastle.

Another home match follows, this one against Wolves, and should serve as a decent tune-up prior to the highly anticipated arrival of Barcelona to the Emirates stadium.

Often overlooked by pundits when assessing this Premiere League season, the Arsenal schedule over the first half of the season has been a difficult road, and our current position in the league table often underestimated. Assuming we make it to the Carling Cup final, the Spurs game away at White Hart Lane will be moved to a later date and may congest an otherwise inviting run to the end of season. On paper at least, that match and the home fixture against Man U the only obvious tests facing the Gunners.

I will leave the speculation surrounding potential new signings to the experts, but let's hope that the current squad continue to grow in confidence and fully realize the potential for greatness this season promises.

Victoria Concordia Crescit

OK, Barcelona It Is

The hyperbole surrounding the Arsenal defeat at Old Trafford would have you believe that A) our season is over, B) Wenger has to go, and C)  Anderson is the world's best midfielder. Sorry to all of you naysayers, but with a little perspective such as that provided by the excellent writer at A Cultured Left Foot, Arsenal fans should still view this season as one of great possibilities.


A 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford is not a result worthy of the scorn and condemnation being heaped upon the squad. A disappointment certainly as Man U in its current form is far from the dominant force of years past, but we do have the return match to neutralize the three points lost. We can also appreciate the effort of our widely derided defensive pairing together with the emergence of a quality goalkeeper.


It is my contention that Wenger should have reacted better to the first half play. Other than the tenacity of Wilshere, nothing good was happening in the offensive end. Shifting Nasri to the middle sooner would have been a good start. Or keep him right and encourage Arshavin and Rosicky to take the ball into the center where space was available. It was frustrating to see Samir smothered, Arshavin predictably feeding the ball to Clichy going past on his left, and Rosicky refusing to shoot from range.


It was disappointing not to have a Plan B. There are times when I greatly admire Wenger's determination to "make it work" by sticking to his vision and belief in the players, but when the whistle blows and goals are needed, some flexibility is required. The ability to adapt to the circumstances in front of you are what make a player great, and the same is true of a manager.


Stoke will be a test. Pulis, in his desperate attempt to distract the Gunners with his ridiculous claims about Arsenal and Arsene, has exposed his own doubts about their ability to give us much of a game. Three points are what we need, a tonic of sorts following the outing at OT.


Barcelona. Fine. One (optimistic) way to look at it is that we would probably have to play them sooner or later to win the trophy, so why not sooner?


Another view (more pessimistic in nature), is that should we not get past them it would alleviate some of the pressure as we head to the conclusion of the Premiere League season. Assuming Chelsea and Man U go through, and Man City is occupied with Europa matches, our schedule (which is much lighter after the New Year) becomes far less hectic. It may bode well for a solid run to the League title.




Voctoria Concordia Crescit

An Opportunity...

Tonight Arsenal have an opportunity to "undo" some wrongs committed earlier in the season. Well, not "undo" so much as "offset" points lost in games played previously. As always, games against your nearest rivals begin to be seen as 6-point rather than 3-point affairs and a win at Old Trafford would have such an effect. The Chelsea-Spurs draw yesterday adds to the mix exponentially as points gained would also provide some cushion in the build-up to our return match with Chelsea at the Emirates.


That draw also takes some pressure off of the squad tonight, a win not vital in the grand scheme if we assume victories against both Man U and Chelsea are obtainable at home. Whether such a reduction in pressure allows Arsenal to play "looser" and more positive or less focused and lackadaisical will be revealed at the opening whistle. Let's hope for the former.


It can be argued that older, more experienced players have a better capacity for handling the pressure, yet often we have seen young players in sport, apparently energetically oblivious to concern, perform equally well. My contention is that the real drawback to youth, in particular on a team which has been so close to title glory, is that the players don't grasp the opportunity at hand. Seemingly spoiled by success they assume that these opportunities will be forthcoming for years to come. The list of players who have never held a trophy is long and certainly each of those on the list would admonish these young Gunners for not seizing the moment.


Apparently Fabianski is a doubt on the bench this evening, but his young compatriot seems to be the type of confident and hungry athlete more than happy to step in and prove his worth.


Cesc also looks doubtful and in many ways I am hopeful that he is not on the pitch so that he may heal fully.


Much has been made of Nani but my concern is the middle and our inability to coordinate our offside trap effectively. Rooney may not be in scoring form but he can push the pass well. Evra will hope to contain Nasri and it will be vital that Sagna pushes forward to apply offensive pressure.


The opportunity has arrived, let's make the most of it.




Victoria Concordia Crescit

Thinking the Unthinkable

At the weekend we witnessed the Unthinkable with Samir Nasri demonstrating pure genius, propelling Arsenal to the top of the League and himself to the top of every Player of the Season list.


Arsenal fans that have been following his career cannot be surprised at his ability, perhaps only the dramatic increase in goals not entirely expected. The absence of Cesc has allowed him to blossom, and despite my admiration for the Spaniard, it is my opinion that Nasri is the only Arsenal player capable of fitting into the Barcelona squad. His pace is the key. He has the close control skill of Hleb, the speed of Walcott and the "trickery" of Arshavin, mixed with a feisty intensity and desire that all great players must possess. Onward and upward Samir.


And likewise Arsenal. Written off amidst a dazzling start by Chelsea, the tradition of Man U and the expected rise of Man City, the top of the League was considered unobtainable by so many pundits. Yet here we are leading the pack in the month of December. The defensive frailty that has even ardent supporters concerned may wreak havoc on the heart, but it is a problem without a singular or definitive cause. Caught up in the momentum of misguided opinion, blame has shifted from goalkeeper to the new center backs and now to Song. But, as with all things great and small, perspective is needed.


A look back reveals that a missed penalty kick and one "brain freeze" handball have had at least an equal impact on our season than all of the supposed shortcomings in personnel. The Rosicky effort at Sunderland should have sealed the game and three points rather than just one. And the mental mistake by Cesc denied us at least one point against Spurs, and possibly three as we chased a third goal rather than play for a draw. At a minimum, three points given away needlessly. Of course those three points do not offset the poor performance against WBA. Two goals at home should be enough. But the result against Newcastle cannot be blamed on the defense, an abysmal effort that hopefully will be the low point of our season.


Of course we would all like to see Arsenal dominating teams week in and week out. But the League is a much different one than we enjoyed 6 or 7 years ago. No team is doing that today and may never again. Chelsea was considered a shoe-in for the title just a month ago, a team so full of talent, experience and strength it was considered naive to question their expected dominance. Yet, here we are, at the top of a very crowded table with more contenders for the crown than ever.


My point would be that while we all may have strong opinions with regard to strategy and squad strength, we must respect that Wenger has chosen to play for goals. Lots and lots of goals. Risky? Yes. Exciting? Certainly. Potential for greatness? Absolutely. Goals change games. Scoring first and scoring often means that the opposition must adjust their game and the advantage is gained. So, while others may cry out for more defense, I align myself with Wenger and push forward.


Now as the Gunners prepare to meet Partizan at the Emirates, we are discreetly forced to think about a much different "Unthinkable". This time not of glory, but rather of the potential for humiliation. No time for complacency, the ramifications of not qualifying for the next round are tremendous. Certainly in regard to financial reward, but more importantly to the psychology of the players. The confidence of the players would take a huge blow, the negative press that would ensue a daily reminder.


It could also have a long term impact on player personnel as witnessed at Liverpool. Established players find themselves traveling to strange places for matches in pursuit of a trophy that pales in comparison to Champions League glory. Suddenly the grass really is greener on the other side of the fence.


So a good effort is in order. RVP may start which may be his opportunity to regain his star status. His build-up play has been exceptional and he should feel quite satisfied, but at the heart of the Dutchman is a goal scorer who thrives on putting the ball in the net. Let's hope he announces his full return with such glory.




Victoria Concordia Crescit

Second Win(d)

Tonight marks a return to the Emirates for an important semi-final Carling Cup match against Wigan, and an opportunity to re-ignite the passions of Arsenal players and supporters alike.


The scent of silverware continues to linger despite the chilly conditions and a win would/should provide a much needed confidence boost. Success at Villa has certainly helped in that respect but a bit of perspective is in order. Without the dog-faced Agbonlahor, Aston Villa were rather weak going forward and Pires offered little threat. Even the GIANT Carew was muted. It was delightful to see our fluid offensive play with Arshavin back in favor, complementing the outstanding efforts of Nasri and Rosicky. The lineup may differ tonight but we should expect to see no change in the style and execution.


There has been plenty of analysis on the ups and downs of Arsenal with most choosing to berate the players "mental toughness". A convenient bit of jargon used when no specific cause can be ascertained. With the benefit of hindsight the specific reason(s) goals are scored/conceded can be pinpointed and contributing factors applied.


Despite the reluctance from fans and press, Fabregas has to be held accountable for the handball against Spurs. A moment of stupidity? An involuntary reaction? Perhaps he did not expect the ball to continue to rise, hoping to catch it on his chest below his upraised arm, but a blunder nonetheless. Of course one goal should not have turned that game. Wenger erred when he did not respond to the change by Tottenham at the half. Tired legs? Most certainly, and it is his responsibility to monitor the fitness levels of those on the pitch. A tactical change by the opposition? Definitely, as Bale was shut out in the first half so effectively they had no choice but to try their luck through the middle. Sadly, Denilson chose to replicate what must be his most glaring fault as a defender: an amazing ability to watch an opponent run past him and somehow NOT respond.


These mistakes are not about mental fragility as implied by critics. It is my contention that the only consistent area that we have shown vulnerability is in the air in front of goal. Sunderland, Newcastle, Spurs and Villa have all taken advantage of this and except for Villa, points taken from us. Some may point to our central defenders as culprits, while earlier criticism was leveled at Fabianski, but it would seem that regardless of who is at fault, better preparation is needed.


On a more positive note, the game played last night between Barcelona and real Madrid was quite entertaining. The "Great One" humbled and Ronaldo quieted. To his credit he did not lose his temper like so many of the other Madrid players. "Lass" Diarra was demonstrating why Wenger was so quick to let him leave, hacking away at anything that moved, while Barca showed that "tippy-tappy" football can work when done right. The pace of their passing (with the exception of Abidal, certainly their weak link) and quick movement, combined with incessant pressure on the ball, allowed Real very little opportunity into the game.


Cesc would have a hard time finding a place on that team, his lack of speed the drawback. Of the Arsenal squad only Nasri would seem to have all of the ingredients. His ability to control the ball at his feet, pace, and touch in front of goal the equal of many of those starting for the Spanish team.


As a team, Arsenal should seek to replicate the pressure Barca put on the opposition. It begins immediately and is continued throughout the pitch. There were no "soft" areas for real Madrid to settle in to and reorganize. While it is fascinating to watch the offensive prowess of Messi and his cohorts, much can be learned by observing the structure of the team when defending. They maintain a shape, often a "pentagram" of five players, that is incredibly effective. The five "points", one on the ball, two on either side marking close passing targets, the fourth and fifth ready to close down anyone entering the pentagram. This shape was maintained throughout the back half, shifting from side to side without interruption. The efficiency of this formation may be what allows their players to maintain energy levels throughout the match. Puyols was still at full speed when the final whistle blew despite his age and the threat of Ronaldo for 90 minutes.


Well, enough with my attempts to advise Arsene Wenger on the fine art of football. Enjoy the game tonight, stay warm if you are attending at the Emirates and let's hope we have good news to report afterward.




Victoria Concordia Crescit

Test 1, 2, 3

Back from the US just in time to watch Nasri and Co take apart England. Samir and Sagna both played well and more importantly went uninjured (though arseblog is cautious regarding Sagna who was subbed late in the game). Gibbs looked rusty but considering he has been out for a while that was expected. RVP played 45 minutes for the Netherlands and by all accounts did well and looks healthy. Cesc had 45 minutes of frustration as Spain got spanked by Portugal. Hopefully the bitter taste will remain and he will be fired up for Spurs, while Chamakh maintained his taste for scoring, notching another for Morocco.


All things considered, the Arsenal have weathered the storm well enough this month. The defeat to Newcastle was painful, one of those games where you watch and wait, hoping that what you are seeing is some sort of dream being played out in the dark corners of your mind. Losing in and of itself is not the problem. Playing so poorly most certainly is. The game at Everton righted so many wrongs and, combined with results for Man U and Chelsea, left the Gunners in a very healthy state.


This weekend will be difficult. Spurs are a strong side, with attacking potential and the midfield will be put to a serious test. As much as I have enjoyed watching Song getting forward, restraint will be required Saturday.




Victoria Concordia Crescit

Delirious Song

Arsenal 1 West Ham 0


Quick notes:


Not a great game by our captain, but Nasri comfortably took over in midfield.


Walcott on the right makes space for those in the middle.


Chamakh needs a rest.


Bendtner is a hungry player.


Song is the new Verminator.




One of those games where the play was good but luck against us, particularly with our shots on goal, the near misses made Robert Green look very good. It may have been the West Ham game plan, or just a typical Scott Parker-inspired effort, but the match was tinkering on the brink of a foul-fest. How he finished the game without at least a yellow card is beyond belief.


Hopefully the victory will further boost the Gunners confidence, particularly in light of the Man City loss to Wolves. Onward Arsenal.




Victoria Concordia Crescit