Gunning them down!

Arsenal kick start their campaign in a dramatic evening at Anfield!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:50:00 +0000

Anfield: Arsenal kick started their new Premier League campaign with a fighting 1-1 draw against a resilient Liverpool side under new manager Roy Hodgson. Even in the absence of the talismatic midfielder Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal kept more of the ball and looked more fluent in midfield, thanks to the trio comprising of Samir Nasri, Thomas Rosicky and Abou Diaby. Arsenal did manage to keep more of the ball but failed to create too many chances to bother Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina. In the first half Arsenal were clearly the better side overall. The highlight of the first half though was the sending off of Liverpool's new recruit and someone who was seen bragging a lot about his new club and how he thought he would contribute to the club he thought was great and blah blah... but it was clearly not his night and after a rash tackle on Arsenal defender Kosceilny, he was shown a straight red in the 44th minute much to the disbelief of the Anfield faithful.

The second half saw the home side start brightly as their sole striker David Ngog, who started in place of the unfit Fernando Torres gave his side the lead with a clinical finish to which Arsenal keeper Manuel Almunia and no answer. The game picked up after around 54 mins when Arsenal felt the urgency to create more and show more attacking intent. Eboue and Wilshere were substituted for Rosicky and Walcott and their presence certainly improved the pace of Arsenal's game. Rosicky looked almost infallible and he almost gave Arsenal the equaliser after an exemplary display of individual brilliance which saw his shot being pushed away by Reina. Liverpool didn't let Cole's sending off affect them and made some good inroads in Arsenal's half to create some discomfort in the Gunners' defense. Kosceinly was very solid at the back and was the best defender for Arsenal. He didn't let Torres(who came on as a sub) settle and held him with ease a couple of times. When it looked like Liverpool would clinch a commendable win with 10 men, a goal keeping blunder by Pepe Reina handed Arsenal an equaliser in the 90th minute, much to the dismay of the home crowd and much to the relief of the visiting gooners.

All in all, it was a fair result. Arsenal didn't create much and at times looked ordinary even after keeping much of the possession. Arshavin in particular looked clueless all game and seemed to have lost pace and that spark which saw him scoring a magnificent 4 at Anfield 2 years ago. The stand out players for Arsenal were Samir Nasri, Thomas Rosicky and Laurent Kosceinly. The Gunners no doubt would be content with a draw, but they need to improve if they want to score more goals especially against top sides. Fabregas' absence did affect them for sure and once he returns, Arsenal's midfield would look much better. RVP too came on for about 20 mins which was good to see...hopefully he'd be fully fit for next week's home clash against Blackpool.

Keep the faith in Wenger...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 08 May 2010 11:13:00 +0000

I know it's frustrating to not win anything for 6 yrs but lets not forget how much we spend each season as compared to other clubs in the league. I know our priority should be to win the league but in a scenario as complicated as todays, where the competition is so tough and to add to that our limited spending, we should appreciate Wenger for what he has done for our club and where he has taken us from what we were when he took over the reigns. When we won our first double under him in 2002, apart from 2 players in the form of Bergkamp and Adams I think, every other played who was a part of that squad was brought in by the man himself who nurtured them and led us to our golden era. Not to forget our 49 games unbeaten run which left our rivals dazed and fans enthralled and mesmerized by the French genuis.

Yes, the time has changed and we have been on a poor run in the last few years... but compare our side to the likes of United, Chelsea, Pool and City and inspite of facing a wolley of injury woes, we have challenged for the title this season and have been doing well in the Champs league in the last few years. Yes, nothing can replace the joy and the expectations of winning silverware but what I'm saying is that we need to have patience with the man who has done so much for this great club. When we were facing an exodus of sorts when most of our key players left us for better opportunities including the talisman Theirry Henry, there was one man who stood by this club and gave it his all inspite of lucrative offers from top Europen clubs and the French national team. After serving us selflessly for 14 long years when he's facing a bad patch and even when he's urging us fans to have faith in his transfer policies and has even hinted on spending this time, we need to be firmly behind him and keep the faith.

Fabregas - We have to bounce back...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 22:43:00 +0000

After an embarrassing defeat at the hands of foes Manchester United, Arsenal captain Cesc Fabragas has made it clear that there's no other way to get back in the stiff title race but to bounce back. We head to Stamford Bridge next and we couldn't have asked for anything worse. But Cesc feels we can still get back in the scheme of things by overcoming the might of The Blues and then Liverpool.

"We have to bounce back straight away," he said. "We know we have two massive games against Chelsea away and Liverpool at home so it is going to be difficult definitely.

"No-one said it is going to be easy. We just have to be strong and see what happens next week.

"Chelsea is never a good game to have even if you are nine points clear or nine points behind. They are a strong side, they have been playing together for a long time. They know what they do and know how to play. We have to beat them to stay in the title race.

"If you don't believe, you don't win things. We want to believe we are still there - I am always realistic and I am not going to lie to myself or to anyone. We know it is very difficult."

He further said(in an interview with Arsenal.com) that he's positive and if we refrain from making mistakes we've made in the past, we can get the result we desire. I like your confidence Cescy but that needs to be complimented by apposite tactics and performance on the day. Yes, we are still in it but the going would only get tougher. Keeping my fingers crossed though... if Wigan can beat Chelsea 'on the day', we surely can...

And btw... the transfer deadline has passed and we have not signed anyone. This has generated criticism from some factions. I think a quality forward or atleast a decent goalkeeper would've been a valuable addition.

Devils slay Gunners...Gutted to death!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 21:48:00 +0000

"When the going gets tough... the tough get going" and not blow it like Arsenal did tonight.

Where do I start? It was nothing short of an abysmal showing by the lads tonight as we were out-classed, out-muscled and out-scored in what was touted to be an entertaining bout. After a promising start to the game, with some flowing football and when Arshavin looked threatening with a couple of his runs sending the cauldron of 60,000 odd Arsenal loyalists in a tizzy, it didn't take much time to crash... just after a super Nani run which resulted in an own goal by Almunia, we seemed to be down and out. Pathetic passing, inexplicably atrocious crosses and some unimaginably horrendous defending made us look like an ordinary team up against the Champions of England. Well, it might sound too harsh but we lacked that determination and the courage to bounce back and United capitalized to the fullest. It didn't take long before the lead was doubled by the much talked about Wayne Rooney, Nani being the provider. 2 goals in 4 mins was too big a shock for us to recover. In the second half too United were the better team and and even though we had our chances like we had in the first half, we managed to convert just one, thanks to a Jonny Evans deflection, Vermaelen the scorer. That too came a tad too late as United were by then 3 goals up, thanks to a quick counter attack by United, Park netting home the virtual winner after a cool run down the left. We weren't at our best alright, but credit to United for a genuinely good performance. Final score- Arsenal 1 Man Utd 3...

No doubt this defeat would dent our title ambitions but lets not forget there's still little time to recover. There's no silver lining though as we go to Stamford Bridge next for an important contest against leaders Chelsea. It's disappointing really to lose such a crucial game and that too after not showing much resistance... but keep the faith guys... that's the best we can do.
Go Gunners!

Brace yourself for the clash of the season!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 09:24:00 +0000

So here we are... with the title race hotting up, we have a huge roadblock to pass as our lads gear up to face the might of Champions Manchester United on Sunday in a bout which is considered by many as the clash of the season.

Whenever these two clubs face-off, it's a special occasion for their fans and this time it's no exception. This fixture has always been intriguing and exciting and once upon a time was considered to be close to, if not equivalent to the 'El Classico', when these two great clubs dominated the Premier League. Tempers have flown, pizzas thrown, shoes hurled and what not! It's true that things have eased out a bit in the last few years, but don't be surprised if there are fireworks this time around as there's a lot at stake apart from just pride. At this stage of the season, both teams would be looking to keep up with leaders Chelsea and nothing less than 3 points would do for both sides.

We have injury woes to cope up with but lets hope Eduardo's able to nurse his hamstring on time(which is unlikely) and atleast one of the two, Diaby or Song turn up for this important encounter. Bendtner's return is a good sign but one would expect Arshavin to assume the role up front in the absence of Eduardo.

Here's hoping we do well and bag all 3 points against our nemesis and send a strong message to leaders Chelsea. Go Gunners!!!

Sol ready to face Man Utd

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 09:10:00 +0000

Arsene Wenger has expressed full confidence in Sol Campbell to restrict the in-form Rooney in the upcoming clash of the titans, in case the first choice centre back Thomas Vermaelen fails to recover on time. Campbell, who sees Wenger as an inspiration has been fairly good ever since he arrived at the Emirates after a spell with Pompey and just one appearance with Notts County. The other night against the resurgent Martin O'Neil's Aston Villa he looked rock solid after he came on as a substitute for injured Thomas Vermaelen. Wenger, in a press conference had this to say...

"Sol can cope with Rooney. He is ready if he has recovered well. I have to assess him but normally he will play if Vermaelen doesn't play," Wenger said on Friday.

"He has experience and he likes the big games. He can turn up if needed and experience helps in these kind of games.

"It was certainly not expected a few months ago when he signed for Notts County that he would be playing a game like this.

"That shows you how quick football is and I believe that he has worked very hard and credit to him, everyday he was motivated to push himself and he is quite fit."

Campbell's experience will surely help feels Wenger. The big man has seen it all in the past but is he still agile and tactful enough to put the brakes on Rooney's indefatigable scoring spree? Watch out for this space...

Wilshere moves to Bolton

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 09:08:00 +0000

Our young starlet Jack Wilshere, 18, has been loaned out to Bolton Wanderers for the remainder of the season. It's a wise move considering he will gain a lot of first team experience with Bolton. The lad has had 7 first team appearances to his credit this season and has impressed whenever he has had the chance. Here's wishing him good luck at Bolton and looking forward to seeing him playing for Arsenal again soon!

Arshavin enjoying life at the Emirates

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 21:27:00 +0000

After about 3 months since arriving at Arsenal, Arshavin is enjoying his time here and has said that he will never leave the club for big bucks. Arshavin, who arrived just before the close of January transfer window has already settled well in North London.

"At Arsenal I feel at home. I like everything here, the friendly team, a wise and experienced manager, and fantastic fans. I won't leave the club for any money," he told the Russian press.

"That we are fourth in the Premier League is an achievement of the whole of the team, not my own. I hope my real successes with Arsenal are still to come."

Nice to hear that Arsha... it's great to have you here too!

Freeman signs professional contract with the club

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 22:51:00 +0000

The 17 yr old talented English lad has signed a professional contract with the club, reports Arsenal's official website. Young striker Luke, who is an England Youth International, signed in the summer from Gillingham, then of League One, where he made his debut for the Gills’ first team at the age of just 15 years and 233 days, a record for the Kent club.

He has had an impressive run so far in the under-18 season and has scored 7 goals. He has also made an appearance for the reserves team. He is someone to watch out for guys... keep an eye on him!

Adebayor saves the day!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 20:40:00 +0000

In what could be described as a pulsating game of football, Arsenal managed to grab a crucial away goal that could be the deciding factor when Villarreal travel to the Emirates. After an abysmal first half performance which saw Gallas and Almunia being substituted after picking up injuries, it seemed to be an uphill task for our lads. The 10th minute thunderbolt by Marcos Senna gave the hosts the lead... a spectacular goal to open the account. It was a struggle in the first half where we didn't control the ball well and gave away possession easily. They created more and better chances leaving us on the backfoot. I must say, Fabianski was exemplary. He kept his cool and made some glorious saves.

Came the second half and we were on our way... as always, the half time talk energised the team and we showed remarkable improvement from the first half and kept more of the ball. Walcott, with his lightning pace penetrated the Villarreal defence quite a few times and Nasri, Fab and Denilson too chipped in with their bit to create confusion in the minds of their defenders. Ade was ordinary throughout the game until he produced a staggering goal out of nowhere. He controlled Fab's delivery with his chest before rolling over and kicking the ball into the net leaving the goalkeeper dazed. A perfect scissor kick to cut the one goal advantage of the hosts and more importantly scoring an away goal in the 66th minute.

The last time we played on this ground, we were rescued by a dramatic late penalty save from Jens Lehmann which helped us reach the final of the Champions league. This is a very decent result and we go to the Emirates with the upper hand. There is no room for complacency but this draw is a favourable outcome and just what we wanted, the away goal factor being very important. So here we come Rome... one step closer...

Lopez claims Fab approached him!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 10:25:00 +0000

Former Barca player Gerard Lopez claims that Cesc approached him for advice regarding his possible move to Barcelona. Lopez, who himself left Barca at 17 for Valencia only to return 3 years later claims that Fabregas wanted to know how he felt on returning to Barca. He said that he belived Cesc would come back and that any player who was brought up by Barca’s youth categories will always succeed at the Camp Nou one day.

Why don't you take up a job as a fortune teller Mr. Lopez? Don't you think there are better things to do than coming out with such statements only to unsettle a 21 yr old lad just before he has a big game coming up?

I'm sick of all the fuss surrounding Fab to be honest... it would be apt to let him speak than for people to come out and speak for him.

pic: Gerard Lopez

We are coming Villarreal...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 23:24:00 +0000

After beating Man City in the Premier league, we now head to Spain for a feisty encounter with Villarreal in the quarter finals of the Champions league. While we have had a good run in the Premiership in the last couple of months and go into this game with some confidence, Villarreal had to face defeat against Almeria in their last domestic match which saw Santi Cazorla breaking his leg. As far as team news is concerned, I'm happy to say that Nasri will play and so will Walcott. Van Persie will miss out along with Diaby and Eduardo who haven't fully recovered from injury.

Here is the probable lineup:
Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Song, Denilson, Walcott, Fabregas, Nasri and Adebayor

It will be a special occassion for two of our former luminaries Robert pires and Pascal Cygan. Pires has said that although he would love to score, he won't celebrate if he does score. One thing we must not get into is complacency. I've heard so many people say that Arsenal have got an easy draw and that it won't be much of a problem beating Villarreal. This mentality could prove to be very costly and Wenger knows that. One must recognise the importance of this game and that we need to leave no stone unturned in our bid to reach the semis and go on to win the Champions league. So... just go out there and do what you do best my lads... play mesmerising football and 'score' more importantly...

Both sides occupy the 4th spot in their respective domestic leagues and it should be a close fight at El Madrigal, what goes in Villarreal's favour is the home advantage but Arsenal have had a great run in the last few weeks and look stronger overall. So I'm predicting a 2-1 win for us... am expecting a close game but I think we will edge them out... Go Gunners!

pic: El Madrigal

"Cesc should stay at Arsenal" - Robert Pires

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:02:00 +0000

As the hearsays about Fabregas' possible move to Spain get louder, former Arsenal midfielder, the very respected Robert Pires has said that he would like to see Fabregas at Arsenal atleast for another year. In an interview with Setanta, Pires said that by staying at Arsenal, Fabregas would be able to improve at a faster rate. That his place in the side is fixed week in and week out, it should be easier for him to concentrate on his game and improve further as a player.

“I do not have any advice to give Cesc, but the ideal situation for him would be to carry on with Arsenal in order to keep on improving,” the Frenchman told setanta.com. “The main reason for him to stay is that he knows he is going to be played week in, week out. I am not saying that he would not play if he was a Real Madrid or a Barcelona player, but it is more difficult to be part of their starting line-up.”

The French veteran added that the expectations would rise when he comes to Spain and that it would be difficult to fulfill them.

“When you come back home, to your country, people have huge expectations. They demand a lot from you and you are put under a lot of pressure”

To conclude, Pires, who was a part of the invincibles at Arsenal, said that Faregas is under reliable hands of Arsene Wenger and that it would be wise for him to stay with the Gunners.

“At the present time, he is in a good environment and he works under a great manager who totally relies on him. To my mind, he should stay one year more at Arsenal.”

Hope you're listening Cescy...

High-flying Gooners sink City!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 18:18:00 +0000

The comeback lads led Arsenal to a comprehensive win over their affluent opponents Manchester City by 2 goals to nil in a highly entertaining bout. Coming into the game without star players Van Persie and Nasri, Arsenal depended heavily on captain fabulous and the Togo luminary to do the trick and they lived up to their expectations in front of a capacity crowd at the Emirates.

The first half was pulsating and made for an exciting watch as both sides created chances though it was Emmanuel Adebayor who was the only one who managed to convert. It took a Fabregas free kick which was headed cleverly by Ade to open the account in the 8th minute. Hughes wouldn't be pleased with the marking there. What one saw after that was free-flowing football from both the sides and it seemed as though the high-profile clash was living upto it's expectations.

The second half was dominated by Arsenal, with City having very little to exude as the rampant young guns gave hardly anything to be exploited. The game slipped further from the Citizens after Fabregas' neat through-ball was converted by Ade who scored his 13th goal of the season... what a cool finish! As if the loss of points wasn't enough, City had to deal with the injury of Wayne Bridge who limped off the field in the 17th minute to to replaced by Gelson Fernandes.

With this win, we've gone a step further in ensuring a top 4 finish as we're now 6 points clear of Villa who face a tough ask tomorrow as they travel to Old Trafford on the back of an embarrassing defeat to Liverpool.

Way to go young guns!!!(btw... my prediction was dead right :P)

Sagna rebuffs Juventus!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 22:47:00 +0000

Bakary Sagna, who has emerged as one of the key players in the team has rejected rumours linking him to Italian giants Juventus.

This is what Sagna had to say to Sky Sports:

"I love this club, I get on well with all the squad and I am happy.

"Juve are a big team, however if Arsenal decide to sell me that is another thing altogether.

"But I am happy here and in my knowledge I am in the plans of the manager for a long time."

Good to hear that Bakary... how we wish someone else follows suit!

Barca keen on 'unsettling' Cesc!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 22:20:00 +0000

Even as Wenger tried hard to keep the rumour mill at bay, Barca have stepped up efforts to lay their hands on Cesc Fabregas. Wenger, who stated that his side were not a one man team and that Arsenal have done well even without Fab seems to be cool about the latest buzz linking Fab to Barcelona. Not to forget our 16 match unbeaten run has come in absence of Fabregas and that we have successfully reached the quarters of the Champions league and the semis of the FA cup. Fabregas has admitted that Real Madrid had tried to tap him before. Even Barcelona President Laporta has said that he would love to have Fab this summer. Lets go back last year when Barcelona tried to unsettle Hleb at this time of the season. They are doing the same with Fab now. It's for Fab to decide where he wants his future to be. We all know how Henry and Hleb have had to struggle there. Fab's position here at Arsenal is secure and that he has been given the honour of leading the side. Success won't come easy at Barca where he'd face compeition from stars like Xavi, Iniesta and Yaya Toure.

It's for Fabregas to decide now. Wenger has made it clear that his side would keep getting stronger with or without Fab and that he is more focussed on the next game than on stories circulating in the press. I second him even though I feel he(Fabregas) won't leave this summer.

Arsenal v Man City - Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 20:07:00 +0000

As we gear up to face the blue force of Manchester, after a good run in the last few games, the confidence is high. Coupled with the return of captain Cesc Fabregas, City couldn't have asked for any worse. While going in with good form and the might of captain courageous, there are some concerns which cannot be ignored. The recent international round of matches have dealt a heavy blow as we will have to do without some key players like Van Persie, Nasri and Diaby. Cesc, too might not play the entire game as Wenger might want him to take it easy after coming back from a serious injury. I must mention the return of the sprightly Theo Walcott would only provide pace and flare down the flank. The other obvious options to guard the midfield would be Arshavin, Denilson and Eboue.

Man City on the other hand too have their share of injury worries with some key players set to miss the crucial game due to injuries suffered while discharging international duties. Bellamy, Robinho could be missed badly in this important encounter which the citizens won comprehensively in their den in November. The good news for them is that Wayne Bridge could return from a hamstring strain which would provide a much needed boost to their defence.

The defeat to City in November was the last we suffered in the Premiership and since then we've been unbeaten for 16 games. Also, City have never won at Arsenal away in the league. Will we continue this good run in our bid to cement our place in the elite top 4? Hell yea!

Probable lineups:

ARSENAL:- Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Walcott, Fabregas, Denilson, Arshavin, Bendtner, Adebayor.

Manchester City:- Given, Richards, Dunne, Onuoha, Bridge, Zabaleta, De Jong, Kompany, Wright-Phillips, Ireland, Robinho.

men to watch out for:-
Cesc Fabregas(whose highly anticipated return could prove to be a decisive factor and he could turn the game aroung single-handedly.)

Shaun Wright-Phillips(who has done very well against us in the past, he is someone we can't afford to let loose.)

Gunning them down prediction: ARSENAl 2-0 with goals from Adebayor and Fabregas.

What's this fuss surrounding Fab!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:20:00 +0000

I've been browsing through various footie sites and what I came across is how people like to make a mountain out of a mole! All of a sudden there's this talk of Fabregas not being committed to Arsenal and that he would be moving to Spain this summer. This talk has been going on since years now and Fab shows no definite sign to quit Arsenal. He has made it very clear that he will stay with us as long as Wenger wants him at the club and that inspite of expressing pride and happiness for being chased by some very big clubs, it would be plain stupid to make tall and baseless claims about his desire to quit the Emirates for the Bernabou or even the Nou camp.

Don't believe all the rumours going around guys... Fab is here... and is here to stay!

HENRY's SHOCKER???

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 07:47:00 +0000

According to Square Football, former Arsenal great, our very own Thierry Henry is all set to be unveiled as..... A SPURS PLAYER!!! Never had I imagined in my wildest of dreams that someone who held Arsenal so close to his heart would even contemplate joining our rivals, especially the Spuds. What this site are 'exclusively' claiming is that Tottenham will be paying Barcelona 60 million pounds along with Roman Pavlochenko and Darren Bent!

I still can't believe this... and won't think about this much until this news is confirmed. According to Square Football, when asked Wenger about this move, he said that he didn't see that coming. Well, I've always been crazy about Henry, you ask my friends and they'd tell you how much I've embarrassed myself for him. Not only that, he was my demigod. I'm sure most of you love him for what he's done for us too! But if this is true, it would be disastrous. Thierry Henry for me will never be the same. As if his move to Barca after committing himself to Arsenal wasn't enough, this would certainly make things worse. This is not yet confirmed mind you, but if what this site(Square Football) is reporting is indeed true, it is shocking.

We have adapted ourselves well and life with Henry is not as bad as one would've initially anticipated. The club has always been bigger than any individual.

Let me tell this on behalf of all my gooner brothers... "NO MATTER WHOM YOU LAND UP... NO MATTER WHOM YOU PLAY... WE WILL ALWAYS BE THE PRIDE OF NORTH-LONDON... AND NOBODY ELSE"

(this story will be tracked until we have a conclusion)

Kroenke buys Arsenal shares from Fiszman

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 07:32:00 +0000

euFootball:- Stan Kroenke has secured a 5,000 share increase in English Arsenal, adding to the ongoing power struggle eating away at the club. Kroenke now holds the title of second largest shareholder, sitting only behind Alisher Usmanov’s Red and White Holdings, as reported by The Telegraph. Kroenke’s latest move has significantly shortened the gap between the two investors, with Red and White holding just 5 per cent more than the American billionaire.

Kroenke, who also acts as an Arsenal non-executive director, shelled out a whopping GBP 42.5 million for the shares. His latest acquisition sends Danny Fiszman – former top shareholder – to third place. The newest shift in shares will have no bearing on the lockdown agreement currently in place, preventing any shares to be sold outside of the boardroom.

Fiszman appears to be pleased with Kroenke’s decision to invest further in the club, telling The Telegraph that the American businessman has assumed approximately one-third of Fiszman’s holdings. The former rough diamond trader went on to note that Kroenke has already enlightened the board with “considerable knowledge and experience” and will continue to work towards the betterment of the club.

full article
The club claims that such transactions would not affect the club in any way... that's good to hear but I wonder what this 'power-struggle' would mean in the long term? multiple power-centres? hopefully not... No matter who buys or sells the shares, the interest of the fans must not be compromised with.

Randall wants first team football...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 22:16:00 +0000

Arsenal's reserves captain, 19 year old Mark Randall wants to move out of the Emirates stadium to get more first team football. In an interview with Arsenal.com, the teenager said that he could accept a loan offer if he feels he will be given the opportunity to play first-team football.

"At the start of the season and during pre-season I thought I did well and I had a good run in the Carling Cup until we got knocked out.

"I thought I was going to go on loan but I think part of the boss didn't want me to go. That's the way it goes sometimes.

"I want to learn as much as possible playing in a first team, any first team as long as I'm playing.

"I don't want to go away and not play. It's good to have a bit of competition and have to fight for your position."

It's understandable... he's a talented bloke and would obviously want to exude his quality at the top most level. But one can't blame Wenger too. We have so many options in midfield that Randall will hardly ever get to play, especially in the premier league. I don't think it would be such a bad idea loaning him out if that makes him feel better.

Arsenal, Man City in a tug-of-war for Hangeland?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 20:52:00 +0000

According to Fansfc, Arsenal and Man City are interested in Fulham defender Brede Hangeland. If reports are to be believed, Wenger and Hughes are eyeing the Norwegian who could cost them anywhere around 10 m pounds. Hangeland has admitted to his interest to joining a bigger club if they approached him.

Not sure whether he's good enough for us really. I would prefer Lescott over him anyday. Wonder what Wenger's thinking.

Fab fully fit!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 11:36:00 +0000

Here's another piece of great news coming our way... Cesc Fabregas, after a long injury layoff is fit and available against Man City in the first week of April. The charismatic Gunners skipper who suffered a knee ligament damange against Liverpool on December 21, 2008, has met expectations of his possible return in April. This means that not only will he be available in the premiership, but also for our important Champions league bouts against Villarreal. I'm not sure as to whether Wenger would play him against City, but he should certainly be available for the first leg against Villarreal.

Adebayor is back with a bang!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 11:22:00 +0000

Putting all his recent injury concerns to rest, Ade played the entire game in his international fixture for Togo and scoring the winning goal against Cameroon. This indicates that he's fully fit and ready to resume his duties with Arsenal. This is very good news given the fact Bendtner has been struggling in front of goal. I will be very surprised if we don't see him starting against City on the 4th of April. Way to go Ade...!!

Lescott to Arsenal?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 23:27:00 +0000

According to The News of the world, Everton defender Joleon Lescott is Wenger's prime target this summer. He has been linked with us before but this time the link seems to have gotten stronger. Wenger is reportedly willing to pay upto 10 m for Lescott, who has been in fine form and is eager to give him an out and out centre half role which, if materialized would mean doing away with either Toure or Gallas. While, Everton boss David Moyes is expected to do all he can to keep his prized defender, it seems as though it won't be easy to numb the player's desire to play in the Champions league. Lescott is without a doubt a fine player and it seems as though Gallas will have to pay the prize if at all the Evertonian is to turn a Gunner.