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Friday, December 5, 2008

Arsenal Striker Eduardo da Silva Set to Return to Action after Full Recovery from Injury

After spending 10 months in the sideline with injury, striker Eduardo da Silva has recently been back in full training. The Croatian striker also missed this year’s Euro 2008 finals with a massive left ankle injury that he sustained earlier this year while representing Arsenal against Birmingham City when he was at his prime.

Goal.com reported:

In the immediate aftermath of the incident, there were fears that the Croatia international would never play again as his left fibula was fractured and his left ankle left dislocated.
Eduardo was ruled out of Euro 2008 but set about a painstaking recovery that has now led him back to full fitness.

It is now pretty confirmed that Eduardo has got over the injury properly, but he needs match practice before getting ready for regular appearance in the starting line up of Arsenal. There is no doubt, Arsenal striking line up will be bolstered with his presence. Striker Robin van Persie has been in good form and winger Theo Walcott has been playing pretty successfully too. With Eduardo back in the squad, it would only strengthen the Arsenal line up.

Friday, November 28, 2008

Should Arsenal go for a Trophy Winning Squad Now?

This is the question that is now in the mind of many people? Many fans of the club feel that it is the time that arsenal should go for a trophy winning squad? It meant that they should have more a celebrity and high profile and expensive players at the cost of the current young players that the club has. And for the last three season, arsenal has not own anything and many people are getting impatient and are claiming the current management and the current coach. It is true and you cannot deny but at the same time you have to think of some other matters too.

Arsenal did not win anything but they own a very important thing- they did not suffer financially despite the fact that they built one of the top three largest stadiums in England in the last few years. Remaining profitable is also a very important thing that most people don’t want to understand. At the end of the day, it is money that matters. If you want to buy top quality players then you have to spend a fortune and you even for that, you need a lot of money. Without money, you cannot build greatest idioms, you cannot buy top quality players, and you cannot win any championship. This is a reality that no club in modern days can avoid or even think that miracles do happen. Who was Chelsea a decade ago? What is the difference that has happened to these clubs only within five years? It has become one of the top clubs in England and also in Europe simply because it got a lot of money.

So, my advice for the skeptics and also for those arsenal fans who do not like their coach is to find a way to get the money. Please, if you can then show me the money.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Emmanuel Adebayor: “We Need More Hunger to Win Silverware”

Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor thinks Arsenal players need to have killer instinct in order to clinch their much-awaited silverware this season. Arsenal could stave off the challenge posed by West Ham United as the North London club came out of the Boleyn Ground with a 2-0 victory. Arsenal was lucky enough to get the first goal in the match thanks to an own goal awarded by West Ham United. Then it was Adebayor who doubled the lead towards the end of the match. There is no doubt, Arsenal was happy to have picked up with 3 points from the match, but their performance was not as impressive as it was against Fenerbahce on the road in Champions League last week.

Emmanuel Adebayor feels Arsenal players need to have more hunger for title and that is what he thinks crucial for the Gunners in order to put an end to their title drought this season. Adebayor thinks people like Arsenal’s style of football, but he feels, winning a trophy is better than playing good without achieving any title. The Togolese international believes a team like Arsenal deserves more than winning a league cup. However, to do that, he insists, Arsenal must have to be desperate more on the field.

Arsenal is going to face their struggling cross town rivals Tottenham Hotspur tomorrow (Wednesday) in a high profile North London derby.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Arsenal Defeated West Ham United 2-0 to Stay at the Fourth Place in the League Table

Arsenal pulled off a 2-0 victory away at West Ham United on Sunday. With this victory, the Gunners remained at the fourth place in the league table with 19 points from 9 matches. West Ham defender Julien Faubert handed an own goal to the visiting side and second half substitute Emmanuel Adebayor’s late strike ensured Arsenal three points from the match.

Arsenal could not show the same dominance they showed against Fenerbahce last week. However, Arsenal fans should be happy at winning three points and remaining in the right track of the title race. Another good news for the Arsenal fans is that captain William Gallas came back to action with this match and ahead of the upcoming derby against Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal seems to be stronger now.

Related article:

AFP

New Found Consistency for the Gunners?

In the end, the supporters and felt relieved and satisfied. They perhaps could feel some sense of consistency in the arsenal club at last in the season. It was an away match and many supporters were perhaps worried if arsenal players in show inconsistency. Well, there is perhaps a sense of relief to see that the players did not let down the club. It’s not that Arsense brutally dominated the match but they were surely the better side of the two.

By the way, the final score was 2-0 and the upon and was West Ham. What I liked about two days matches that the gunners a game played as a team. There is nothing much about any individual player to write about But as a unit, they worked very well. I feel that this other thing that All the supporters are now praying for. They do not need any individual player to score 25 plus goals and then the others just wait and see. Instead, They want to see all the players in action and present exciting movement that will bring trophies as well as entertain the spectators.

I really wish to believe that arsenal players have found some kind of consistency and they can maintain this consistency for the rest of the season. I’m happy to see that they’re doing very well in Europe as well as England. In Europe, they’re playing as if they’re invincible in home and away. I wonder what is the problem to do same level of performance in England. I have one theory about it. Right now, England is the capital of European football and most of the giant games are situated in England. So, it has become perhaps harder to perform in England compared to Europe.

Surely, coach Arsene Wenger is very happy today. He has suffered a lot of criticism in the last few months for the poor performance of his players. There has been repeated calls to By some big celebrity players spending millions of dollars. He has resisted all the temptation to do so and he feels that his young players Will become a great asset for the future. He also thinks that economic recession might affect English premier league and spending too much money and this moment is perhaps not the right move. I agree with him With all my heart and I really wish to see that he can become successful with his strategy. He’s the right coach for arsenal and I feel that he’s the best coach in one football today. No other coach can even dream of having the same level of success With so little money. 

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Arsene Wenger Hit out on William Gallas Being Photographed with cigarette

A photograph of Arsenal captain William Gallas holding a cigarette in his mouth while leaving a night club caused Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger to become furious at the captain. Wenger, who maintains strict discipline on diet, health as well as lifestyle of the players, was in anger while commenting on the photograph of Gallas. The French manager clearly he did not like what Gallas did and he felt that as a club captain William Gallas had some responsibility.

Canadian Press reported:

"I didn't see the picture. I have been informed, but I don't like that," Wenger said Friday. "I will check that with him. He has a responsibility as captain of Arsenal Football Club. That cannot be accepted.

"It is a public job with a public responsibility and therefore it is exactly the same for everybody."

I also agree with Wenger in this regard. As a club captain, he must show some responsibility and make himself as a leader not only on the field, but also off the field. Moreover, as a professional footballer he can not break his diet during the season and can not do what he is restricted from doing. Last year, Gallas was criticized when he refused to leave the ground following a 2-2 draw at Birmingham.

There is no doubt, William Gallas is still one of the best centre defenders in the premier league. I hope, he will understand that he has a lot to offer for his club.

Friday, October 24, 2008

William Gallas: Cigarette and Captaincy!

Smoking cigarettes, is not a big deal in many countries in the world. However, it is not praised in the mainstream media anywhere. So, when Arsenal captain William Gallas was photographed as smoking a cigarette naturally, it created a lot of negative publicity in the media. The coach Arsense Wenger is not happy with this matter but he thinks that William Gallas is the right man at the helm of arsenal.

I think that most supporters have the same attitude too. I’m not a big fan of smoking and I really wish that players like William Gallas become more careful not to be photographed with a cigarette. This would send the wrong signal to the teenagers. The best thing to have a while you were being photographed is perhaps a book.

Related Article

Wenger backs Gallas after Arsenal captain photographed with cigarette

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Arsenal Winger Theo Walcott: ‘Other Teams Will Scare Us Now’

Arsenal pulled off one of the most memorable win in Istanbul on Tuesday night after beating Fenerbahce 5-2 in a Champions League clash, handing the Turkish champions their first home defeat in 16 months. After Arsenal’s imperious form at home, Arsenal winger Theo Walcott thinks that other teams will fear Arsenal from now. Walcott himself also scored the second of the five goals. Seeing a young side of Arsenal, where average age of the players is 22, thrashing Fenerbahce on the road, Walcott believes, other teams will now be scared to play against Arsenal. He also feels that Arsenal wants to give out this impression to the other teams and he is now hopeful that the Gunners will keep performing like that.

Arsenal was missing a number of first team players through injury for the trip to Istanbul. Specially, their defense line up was mostly affected by injury with Captain William Gallas, Kolo Toure and Bacary Sagna, all of whom are regular in the Arsenal’s first team line up, were ruled out of the match against Fenerbahce. However, the young players played excellently well which must have made Arsene Wenger and the fans happy.

However, the most important thing is that Arsenal must show consistency if they really want to end their wait for silverware this season. It is definitely an inspirational victory, considering Fenerbahce’s formidable home record. However, Arsenal got big margin victories number of times this season, but sometimes they lost their momentum and suffered two defeats already in the premier league. Alike Wenger, I also think that Arsenal can not afford to make many errors in the course of the season, if they really want to put an end to their trophy drought this season. However, I have to admit that it was a pleasant experience to see Arsenal playing at the top of their level and outclassing the opposition in almost every position on the field. I hope Arsenal will continue it and will not make as many mistakes as it would drop them from the title race.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Williams Gallas: Arsenal Needs to Be Like Chelsea

The title of this entry might have surprised you. Well, this is true that Arsenal captain Williams Gallas thinks that Arsenal requires the same winning mentality that he observed during his six-year spell at Chelsea before joining the North London club. Gallas also feels that people singled him out unnecessarily for the failure of Arsenal to win any silverware last season.

Goal.com reported:

"Before Arsenal, I spent six years at Chelsea. That team was capable of getting ugly wins. If we had an opportunity to win a cup, we would never miss it."
"I became imbued with the winning culture, which doesn't exist yet at Arsenal.
"Our game made people dream, but we had empty hands. We have to show a more clinical state of mind," the Arsenal skipper declared.

"I can say we have not seen the Gallas from 2006 this term so far," he added, reflecting on his recent form. "In a few matches, I have not been so good."



William Gallas, however, admits that he has not been consistent so far this season, but he is trying his best to get back his best. Anyway, I personally do not agree with Gallas on the fact that Arsenal needs to be like Chelsea. I believe, Arsenal has its own style of football that they traditionally follow, but people should not blame Gallas for Arsenal’s failure to win any title last season. People should support him.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Arsenal Players in France Team Against Romania

Today, the French national football squad of 22-members was announced for the match against Romania. It is a world cup 2010 qualifying match and it is very important for France. France in the first match suffered a humiliating 3-1 defeat against Austria in Austria and then won the home match against Serbia by 2-1. The good news for the French fans is that Patrick Vieira and Franck Ribery have been called back. Both of them were injured for sometime. Well, you know that Patrick Vieira used to play for Arsenal and he is considered to be one of the greatest Arsenal players among the fans. I was also happy to see two more Arsenal players in the defense. They are Arsenal captain William Gallas and Gael Clichy. There is another player in the defense who is Bacary Sagna from the London club. In midfield, I have talked about Patrick Vieira who now plays for Inter Milan and used to be in London in the past. In the forward line up, there is Thierry Henry who is currently playing for Barcelona, but in the past, he used to play for Arsenal. So, you can see that the past and present players of this London club constitute a significant portion French national team now.


I am happy for it and it did not surprise me because Arsene Wenger is from France. The only thing shocking to me is that Samir Nasri was not included in the 22-men squad. Coach Raymond Domenech thinks that Samir Nasri is not fit enough yet to play in the international level. Well, he may be wrong because in the midweek Samir Nasri played against Porto and was impressive.


Here, I am giving the names of the full squad of France for the Romania Match from Reuters:

Goalkeepers: Steve Mandanda (Olympique Marseille), Hugo Lloris (Olympique Lyon)

Defenders: William Gallas (Arsenal), Philippe Mexes (AS Roma), Eric Abidal (Barcelona), Patrice Evra (Manchester United), Bakary Sagna (Arsenal), Gael Clichy (Arsenal), Rod Fanni (Stade Rennais), Sebastien Squillaci (Sevilla)

Midfielders: Patrick Vieira (Inter Milan), Jeremy Toulalan (Olympique Lyon), Alou Diarra (Girondins Bordeaux), Lassana Diarra (Portsmouth)

Forwards: Thierry Henry (Barcelona), Karim Benzema (Olympique Lyon), Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich), Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea), Yoann Gourcuff (Girondins Bordeaux), Florent Malouda (Chelsea), Florent Sinama-Pongolle (Atletico Madrid), Hatem Ben Arfa (Olympique Marseille). (Editing by Clare Fallon)


Arsene Wenger in Support of Sol Campbell

Sol Campbell does not play for Arsenal any more. You may wonder that why Arsene Wenger has to suport him for anything. Well, Sol Campbell is at this moment in Portsmouth and he is playing for the club. Of course, Sol Campbell has passed his prime, but still he is not a bad player. So, you may wonder what is the problem with him. The problem is that in 2001, Sol Campbell was playing for Tottenham and moved to Arsenal. You know that there is a bitter rivalry between Tottenham and Arseanl as they both come from London. When the two teams play against each other it is called London Derby and this is considered to the most bitter rivalry in English football. Of course, Tottenham Hotspur is not a big name in English football at this moment. I cannot remember the last time they became champion in English premier leaguel. Still, the supporters of Tottenham are very passionate and they hate Sol Campbell. Everyone has the right to like or dislike a player. There is nothing wrong with it, but the sad part is that whenever Sol Campbell comes to Tottenham, he suffers bad reaction from Tottenham supporters. Sometimes, the negetive attitude come to racism and this is very ugly and no one should do it. So, I am happy that Arsene Wenger has come in support of him. At this moment, it will be a good one and it will surely help him.

Related article:

Sky Sports


Saturday, September 27, 2008

Arsenal Slips at Hull City

Once again, the Gunners lost points to a side against whom Arsenal was expected to pull of an easy victory. The high-flying Arsenal should have posted an easy victory over newly promoted Hull City, but the Gunners struggled against Hull at home and lost all three points that would have kept Arsenal at the top of the point table. However, Gunners failed to continue their momentum they got in their 6-0 Carling Cup victory over Sheffield United last week.


Arsenal was put ahead thanks to Cesc Fabregas at the beginning of the second half, but Cousin and Geovanni scored to ensure a historic victory for Hull City against Arsenal. Now, the question is that what makes Arsenal lose point very often, even when they are at the top of their form. Having seen the impressive 6-0 midweek victory over Sheffield by a seemingly reserve side, it was really very hard to think that Arsenal would slip up against Hull City at home.


I do not think that recruiting one or two more players would solve the problem, because this team has talent, skill and quality and that’s all needed to become a balanced side. Then what is the problem? Well, I think, Arsenal needs more maturity and experience as most of the players are talented but young. Actually, I do not blame Arsenal because this squad needs to play together for two or three more seasons and after that, I believe, the young troop will start to pay back with dividend. Till then, it is necessary to hold on patience and keep faith on Wenger’s young boys.


Related article:

Fox Sports

Friday, September 26, 2008

Arsenal vs Hull City: Who Will Win?

They have managed to get just 5 points from 4 matches. It does not look to be the result card of a team like Manchester United. Still, this season, this is the condition of this club. On the other hand, Arsenal is at the top of the point table and the London club has perhaps the youngest team in the entire EPL. In fact, among the big 3, Arsenal has the least expensive and least experienced players. Now, the Gunners are at the top of the point table.

Alex Ferguson feels that it is time, Man Utd players get back their natural rhythm and makes some big scores. Alex Ferguson feels that last season, Man Utd had a disastrous start but in the end, they managed to become EPL and Champions League champion. So, Alex Ferguson thinks that it wont be difficult this time for the club to have same feat.

 

Related Article

AFP

Mikael Silvestre Looking for Arsenal Debut against Hull City

Mikael Silvestre might win his debut match for Arsenal against Hull City since joining the North Londoners last month in a move from Manchester United for an undisclosed fee. However, he has been out with in injury so far. However, reports in the media suggest that the French international has recovered from injury and might start against Hull City on Saturday.

Arsenal has more good news ahead of Hull City’s visit to Emirates stadium. Gael Clichy has made a quick recovery from a shin injury that he picked up in their 3-1 victory over Bolton Wanderers last week. Clichy is fit enough to start against Hull City, but I am not sure if Arsene Wenger would put him in the starting line up or in the substitute bench. Theo Walcott also recovered from a minor knock picked up against Bolton, while Samir Nasri is also fit to start against the newly promoted Hull City.

The last time, Hull City win over Arsenal came 100 years back. No doubt, they will look to get another victory against Arsenal after so many years. However, I think, Arsenal is playing some top-class football. So, Hull City should not be a big problem for the Gunners at home.

Related article:

Guardian

Arsenal vs Hull City: Who Will Win?

At this moment, arsenal is looking to the increasingly irresistible and that is winning at very easily most of the matches at home or away. Tomorrow, they’re going to face Hull City. It will be a whole match for the London-club and at it would take a look at the recent performance than we have to admit that arsenal is the hot favorite at tomorrow’s match against Hull City. Most probably, the fans have already started debating on how many goals the gunners would score tomorrow. They will not be happy for less than 4 goals I think. Of course, Hull City is not in a bad condition this season. I mean that they have done some decent performance. Well, may be some Hull City supporters are optimistic about tomorrow’s match.

I think that Arsenal will win the match easily.

 

Related Article

Arsenal vs Hull City EPL 08-09: Preview and Live Score

Carlos Vela: The New Thierry Henry?

There is nothing wrong in drawing this kind of comparison. However, I am surprised to see that some people have gone as far as comparing him with Thierry Henry. Carlos Vela has just played only one game for arsenal and he played superbly. There is no doubt about that. However, you have to remember that It was a Carling Cup match and it was not a very big game. It was not against a big opposition like Manchester united or Chelsea. So, I do not like to jump into conclusion just after one game against the minor opposition.

I think that the media should be more cautious about getting this kind of publicity to a young player who is just too young. It may harm him in the long run instead of inspiring him to become the next Thierry Henry.  

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Carlos Vela Praises Arsene Wenger for Keeping Faith on Young Players

Carlos Vela, Arsenal’s hat-trick hero against Sheffield United in the Carling Cup, has thanked manager Arsene Wenger for keeping his faith on the youngsters at the Emirates stadium. Vela scored three goals in their 6-0 triumph over Sheffield United. The Mexican striker joined the North London club in a move from Chivas for a £2.5 million deal. However, he grew matured as a player under the guidance of Arsene Wenger. Now, he has started paying back with dividends to Arsenal.

Arsene Wenger featured a seemingly reserve side against Sheffield United, but Wenger’s young guns outclassed the opponents and secured a place in the fourth round of the tournament. Vela has recently said that Arsene Wenger’s reputation made him join Arsenal and has expressed his respect to Wenger for his faith on the young players like himself. Admitting that he has received many advices from Wenger regarding his play, Vela has also revealed that players at Arsenal are very close as a group of players and have good friendship. Indicating Wenger’s reputation for working with young players, Vela thinks, Wenger has proven his reputation once again featuring a team where the oldest player was the 23-year-old goalkeeper.

Arsene Wenger is definitely one of the best managers in today’s football with abilities to nurture talent. He always holds positive outlook and is able to get the best out of his players. Arsene Wenger deserves the full credit for recognizing the talented footballers at a tender age.

Related article:

Telegraph

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Arsene Wenger Happy with New Generation at Arsenal

Arsenal is traditionally a club that looks after the youngsters skillfully and effectively, and helps the young players grow matured as a player. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has recently said that he is now happy with the new generation of footballers at the club. Ahead of the third round Carling Cup encounter with Sheffield United today, Arsene Wenger is likely to give some of his young guns a chance to play for the senior team of Arsenal.


Well, Arsene Wenger very often considers the Carling Cup fixtures as an opportunity to feature some of his young guns so that they can earn experience of playing at this level. That is why, Arsenal hardly wins silverware in Carling Cup. Last time they went closer to capture the title in Carling Cup was in 2007 when they were beaten by Chelsea in the final. Last season, Arsenal failed to reach the final and was knocked out by the city rivals Tottenham Hotspur.


Wenger indicates the young players like Jack Wilshere, Kieren Gibbs and Mark Randall as the young generation at Arsenal. He thinks that the new generation can give a view of how life could be at Arsenal within next three to five years.


Related article:

Goal.com

Monday, September 22, 2008

Arsenal’s Kolo Toure Criticizes Kevin Davies of Bolton Wanderers for Dreadful Tackle on Gael Clichy

Arsenal won the last Saturday’s premier league encounter away at Bolton Wanderers 3-1. Bolton players looked a bit aggressive physically and played some rough football with players making heavy challenges physically against Arsenal players. Gael Clichy was severely tackled by Bolton player Kevin Davies and he was booked for the tackle. Initially, it was through that the player might have picked up with fracture in his left leg, but x-rays later on showed that he suffered bruising in his left leg.

Clichy’s Arsenal team mate Kolo Toure has fully criticized Kevin Davies for his tackle, claiming that these kinds of tackles should not be allowed in football. Stating that football is a game of skill, he also said that Arsenal can also play like that, but the Gunners would opt to concentrate on playing football in stead.

Related article:

ESPN Soccernet

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Sustainability vs Instant Success: Which is More Important?

This is perhaps the most important question for arsenal at this moment. It is many months since the club won any trophy. And, this season, they could not buy any new quality player. In fact, at this moment, Arsenal does not have any big player in the rank of Ronaldo. Arsene Wenger believes that his club should not spend too much money in wages and in transfer market. The board of directors who run the club agree with him. Well, until last season, most supporters did not have any problem. However, now, many fans really don’t like this thing at all. They want instant success. They want that their favorite club wins something this season either in England (EPL) or in Europe. Many fans also feel that with the current players, it is impossible to win anything.

Well, I would vote for sustainability. The club is still one of the top 3 in England. That matters to me. I want them to win a trophy this season but I don’t want financial uncertainty especially at a time like this when there is economic slowdown in whole world.

Friday, September 19, 2008

Arsene Wenger Seeking Mental Strength Against Bolton

It will be an away match for Arsene Wenger and his players. In the recent weeks, the club performed very well with only one defeat but it was an away defeat. Just the other day, the London based club got an amazing draw at champions league against dynamo Kiev. So, the players should be in a happy mood. Wenger thinks that they have to have mental strength to win against Bolton:

"We have a great mental strength in the side and also quality. We have either been really good or really bad there, lost or won, nothing really in between... But also Bolton for years had a good side - they still have - and that is why nobody liked to go to Bolton because everybody knows usually they give great commitment."

So, we will find out whether the players can have mental strength against Bolton and win it.

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Arsene Wenger Interested to Sign Free Agent Mineiro

Free agent Brazilian midfielder Carlos Luciano da Silva who is widely known as Mineiro is now training with Arsenal reserves and the out-of-contract midfielder has recently participated in a friendly match for Arsenal XI that defeated Fulham reserves 3-0. The world cup winning midfielder has left German club Hertha BSC Berlin in Summer and he is now looking for a new club to join. The 33-year-old also attracted interests from Birmingham City.

Upon knowing the fact that Mineiro was available to sing, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger recently invited Mineiro to visit the club and training ground and the player already started training with Arsenal reserves. Arsenal is yet to come to terms with the departures of Lassana Diarra, Gilberto and Mathew Flamini that left a mark on Arsenal midfield. Wenger recruited young players like Amaury Bischoff and Aaron Ramsey to fill up the gap in the middle of the park. An experienced holding midfielder might bolster Arsenal squad and will make the Gunners squad stronger. Mineiro is a skilled midfielder with huge experience of playing both at club level as well as for Brazil team. He has 25 international appearances under his cap and has been playing professional football for about ten years.

Now, Arsene Wenger will reportedly assess Mineiro’s fitness before making a serious deal in this regard. To be honest, I do not know much about Mineiro, so I do not have any idea whether Mineiro will fit well with Arsenal’s style of football. However, Wenger must know what he wants from whom and he also knows it very well that who can do what for the club. So, if Wenger finds something valuable in him, only then Mineiro will be offered a contract.

Related article:

Goal.com

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas Looks to Improve his Defensive Role in the Midfield

Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas said that the reaction he had showed after being substituted during Spain’s 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in world cup qualifying was nothing but his passion and commitment as a sportsman. He responded angrily when he was taken off in the second hand half after scoring the winning goal for European champion Spain. It is true that Fabregas is believed to be one of the young prospects of Spain national team and thought to be one of the shining futures of Spanish side, but he rarely plays full time. Out of 33 appearances, Cesc Fabregas played 90 minutes in only five matches for Spain and in most of the time he is taken off when his team is leading in the match. That is what prompted Fabregas to think he has weakness defensively.

The young star of Arsenal wants to become a complete midfielder- meaning equally strong in attack as well as in defense and his desire is to make himself capable of playing whole 90 minutes for Spain. He also confirmed that he did not have lack of respect for anybody. The immediate outburst he showed after being substituted by Xabi Alonso was his guile and eager to give 100 percent for his country.

I welcome the passion and commitment that Cesc Fabregas has in him because that is what makes the difference between a great and an ordinary player. However, I think, Fabregas should not be frustrated because he is getting better day by day.

Related article:

Telegraph

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Arsenal Ladies Pulled off 6-1 Victory over Doncaster Belles

Arsenal ladies opened up a two-point lead at the top of Women’s English Premier League 2008-2009 over Chelsea after thrashing Doncaster Belles 6-1 with two goals from Kelly Smith and Karen Carney each. Arsenal ladies have been flawless so far without losing any point in five matches. With two goals, striker Kelly Smith took her goal tally to 14 from five matches.

Arsenal got off to a good start as Kim Little opened scoring early in the match before Karen Carney scored twice to bring a 3-0 lead for the Gunners ladies in the match. Kelly Smith made it 4-0 just before the half time and that was enough to ensure a victory for Arsenal. In the second half, Jayne Ludlow increased the lead 5-0, but Donny decreased the lead with a consolation goal. Kelly Smith hit her second goal with 13 minutes off final whistle and brought a 6-1 emphatic victory over Doncaster Belles. Chelsea moved to second place in the point table with their 3-0 victory over Bristol Academy, replacing Everton.

Arsenal ladies has been dominating the league, scoring 33 goals in five matches. So, it is clear that Arsenal ladies are playing at their prime and are clearly favorite for another league title.

Related article:

BBC

Arsenal Linked with a Move for Stephen Appiah

Reports have it in the media that Arsenal has been linked with Ghanaian midfielder Stephen Appiah, who is currently up for grab for the clubs as has been a free agent following Fenerbahçe released him recently. Stephen Appiah has already attracted interests from several European clubs including West Ham United, Tottehnham Hotspur, Genoa and his former club Juventus. Arsenal has been the recent addition in the list of interested clubs.

Appiah missed most of the last season due to injury and needed to go to Italy for rehabilitation and eventually missed his international duty in African Nations Cup 2008. However, the Ghana international is now confident to revive his career. The 27-year-old has reportedly expressed his interest to join English premier league. He has recently admitted that negotiations with different clubs going on, but he is not yet confirmed about his destination.

All know that Arsene Wenger is keen to include a midfielder at Emirates as he is yet to come to terms with the departures of Mathew Flamini, Gilberto Silva and Alex Hleb over the Summer. He made bids for Gareth Barry and Xabi Alonso, but could not materialize any of his bids for several players in Summer. Now, let us see if Stephen Appiah becomes the player Arsene Wenger wants to land at Arsenal.

Related article:

Goal.com

Saturday, September 6, 2008

Andorra vs England World Cup 2010 Qualifying: Live Score

Andorra (0)--- England (2)

90 minutes: England has won the match by 2-0

85 minutes: Frank Lampard is substitued.

75 minutes: Will we see any more goals from Joe COle?

65 minutes: ENgland is leading 2-0. By the way, It is Joe Cole who scored both the goals

63 minutes: ENgland is still leading by 2-0

55 minutes: ENgalnd has scored the second goal. England now leading by 2-0

50 minutes: England has scored a goal and leading by 1-0. Joe Cole is the scorer.

45 minutes: Half Time now and score is 0-0

40 minutes: NO goal yet. Just 5 minutes left before first half

33 minutes: I dont know what is happening to England players. They are competing against each other about miss chances.

28 minutes: England is very well but no goal yet

20 minutes: Frustrating for ENgland fans. Frank Lampard hit a good shot but wide

15 minutes: Lovely attack from England but Wayne Rooney could not score

12 minutes: Still goalless.

5 minutes: Still no goal. Good attack from ENgland

0 minutes: The match has just started.

We will give you give score of the match Andorra vs England World Cup 2010 Qualifying as soon as it starts. Don’t forget to subscribe to the feed of the blog.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Arsenal Rejected Cardiff City’s Last-Minute Loan Move for Aaron Ramsey

Cardiff City made a last-ditch move to get Aaron Ramsey back on a loan deal, but Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was reluctant to let his Summer signing go back to Ninian Par on a load deal. On the very last day of the transfer deadline, Arsene Wenger himself was desperate to land one more midfielder to bolster his midfield, but could not materialize any of his bids. So, naturally there was no reason Wenger could have accepted Cardiff City last-minute loan move for the Welshman.

The departures of Mathew Flamini, Alexander Hleb and Gilberto Silva in the Summer left a void in Arsenal midfield, even though Wenger landed French youngster Samir Nasri to come to terms with the loses of the regular midfielders. 17-year-old Aaron Ramsey was signed from Cardiff City during Summer transfer window, but it is almost sure that his appearance in his debut season will largely be restricted to Carling Cup. That is what made Cardiff City interested to make an eleventh-hour move for Aaron Ramsey.

Related article:

Telegraph

Arsenal Striker Carlos Vela Wants to Flourish under Arsene Wenger

Many young players turned in to world stars under the guidance of Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. Emmanuel Adebayor is the latest prominent example of Wenger’s success to get the best out of young players. The Togolese star joined Arsenal two seasons back as a young potential striker, and having spent two seasons, Adebayor already set himself as one of the sought-after strikers in Europe.

Now, Arsenal’s Mexican international Carlos Vela wants to flourish under Wenger. The 19-year-old striker joined the Gunners in 2005, but spent three successive seasons on loan in Spain. The young prospect has recently received his work permit in England and will not be out on loan for the current season. Vela has recently hailed manager Arsene Wenger, claiming that the French coach knows what he wants from the players and how to get the best out of the players. Besides, the Mexican striker has also added that this is why Wenger gets impressive response from the players.

Carlos Vela is termed as new Hugo Sanchez, former Mexican great, because of his excellent skill and talent. Vela thinks the way Arsenal plays football is smooth and easy to adopt quickly. Arsenal is currently left with few striking options with Eduardo out with injury for a long time. So, it is expected that the he will definitely get football action this year. Vela is also ready to give his best for the club, claiming that he is motivated and enjoys the pressure to provide with 100 percent.

I think, Vela is a potential player who has the ability to become a future star for Arsenal and has the motivation to improve his skill. He was the golden boot winner of U17 world cup. So, he does not lack talent or skill, but he needs to flourish his potential at the club. I see a good striker in Carlos Vela and if he can hold his patience, he has the chance to become a star striker in the future.

Related article:

Guardian

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Arsenal Found a Last-moment Bid for Xabi Alonso Rejected

Arsenal was desperate to sign Liverpool’s Spanish midfielder Xabi Alonso in a late bid, but Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez rejected the bid, citing the midfielder was not for sale. However, all the summer Alonso wanted a move to Emirates and even asked Benitez to let him join Arsenal. Even it was thought that Rafael Benitez was ready to make a deal for Alonso if any interested club agreed to pay the amount he had demanded.

Arsenal had already have a £12million bid rejected for Alonso when Liverpool was linked with a move for Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry, the player Benitez was interested to get in at Anfield. However, Liverpool could not materialize the Barry deal and perhaps, that is reason Rafael Benitez rejected Arsenal’s reportedly improved late bid of £14million for Xabi Alonso.

It was earlier reported that Arsenal might land one or two players at the eleventh-hour of the deadline on Monday and the manager tried his best on the last day of the deadline sign new player in the midfield. Wenger made a second bid for Udinese midfielder Gokhan Inler, who once again confirmed that he was going to play at least another season in Italy. Wenger also made a last-moment move for Real Madrid’s German defender Christopher Metzelder, but that was of no avail too.

However, Arsene Wenger is confident that he has a strong squad with which he can challenge other clubs in the bid to win silverwares. Now, let us see if Arsenal can continue their excellent form that they showed against FC Twente and Newcastle United at home.

Related article:

Goal.com

Gokhan Inler Said No to Arsenal’s Late Bid Before Transfer Window Closed

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger tried his best to bolster the squad with a late move on Monday, the closing day of the Summer transfer window. Following the departures of regular midfielders like Mathieu Flamini, Alexander Hleb and Gilberto Silva over the Summer, Arsenal does not have many options left in the midfield. So, Wenger was searching for a new midfielder to land at Emirates stadium before the transfer window closed. However, all his last attempts to bring a new man failed and Arsenal now has to contend with the void created by the Summer selling.

Wenger made a second bid to recruit Gokhan Inler from Italian club Udinese, but the Swiss midfielder once again turned down the offer to join Arsenal. Inler confirmed it earlier that he would be staying at Udinese at least another season. The 24-year-old midfielder joined Udinese from FC Zurich last season and spent a very successful debut season with the club. Inler thinks it will be little early to go to premier league and he wants to spend another great season with Udinese.

Well, Arsene Wenger also tried to sign Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid’s German defender Christoph Metzelder, but the bids did not materialize. However, it is believed that Arsene Wenger might make another move for Metzelder in January transfer window.

Related article:

Telegraph

Monday, September 1, 2008

Arsene Wenger Wanted Chelsea’s Salomon Kalou to be at Arsenal!

When I came across the Mirror report, I got a bit surprised. Well, still I am not sure about the news as Wenger and Arsenal have remained silent. Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has recently expressed that Wenger was interested to sign Salomon Kalou in Summer transfer window.

Being asked about the lack of experience in his centre forward options following Anelka’s unsuccessful run against Tottenham Hotspur, Scolari indicated Kalou in this position, claiming that Wenger was also interested to play him as a centre forward. Scolari revealed that Arsene Wenger had started negotiations for Kalou about a month or two ago. However, Scolari was not interested to sell Salomon Kalou.

There are many who think that Wenger does not want to add high profile players in the squad and always go for low-budget signings. Here, we can see that Wenger knows it very well who can do what for the club.

Related article:

Mirror

Arsene Wenger Interested to Sign German Defender Christoph Metzelder from Real Madrid?

With summer transfer window closing today, it is not yet clear whether Arsene Wenger will land another midfielder to bolster Arsenal midfield line up. Reports out in the media suggest that Arsenal manager Wenger is trying to make a deal with Real Madrid for their German defender Christoph Metzelder. Well, do not take anything for granted yet, because neither Arsenal not Real Madrid has confirmed the news so far.

Actually, I am a bit puzzled about the report claiming Wenger being linked with German international Metzelder who is regular in German national side, but could not yet become regular in Real Madrid defense. Christoph Metzelder had to sit out on several occasions last season and that is why, I guess, he might also be interested to move to a big club like Arsenal where he will get more first team football.

Now, what made me puzzled is that Arsene Wenger is supposed to recruit a centre midfielder to fill up the void created by the departures of Mathew Flamini, Gilberto Silva and Alex Hleb over the summer. Moreover, Wenger recently let centre back Philippe Senderos join AC Milan on a loan deal, claiming that lots of options available in the defense line up. Then why he is going for another centre back- this is the question. I think, I can at least make a guess for the possible answer.

First of all, Wenger tried hard to land a midfielder and was reportedly linked with a number of targets including Gokhan Inler of Udinese, Alonso from Lvierpool and Gareth Barry from Aston Villa. Inler clearly played Arsenal offer down, while rumors surrounding Alonso and Barry move still prevail- but the amount needed to sign either Alonso or Barry may be little bit higher than what Arsenal is ready to pay.

Secondly, Christoph Metzelder is a tough tackling centre back with sheer experience of playing at top level of football. Though he is a specialist for centre half position, he could easily play the role of a holding midfielder as well. Moreover, he is not regular in Real Madrid’s starting line up as he won only 13 appearances for Real Madrid in his debut last season; so an Arsenal move might be enticing to the defender. May be these are the points that made Arsene Wenger interested to make a bid for the defender.

Again, I want to let you confirm that Arsenal’s interest about Christoph Metzelder is not yet confirmed from neither of the clubs. So, go for ‘wait and see’ approach in this regard.

Related article:

thisislocallondon.co.uk

Arsenal to Face Sheffield United again in Carling Cup 2008-09

North London club Arsenal will take on Sheffield United once again in a knock-out competition as Gunners have been drawn against the Championship side in the third round of Carling Cup 2008-2009. Arsenal emerged winner in last year’s fourth round Carling Cup meeting with Sheffield United when they visited Bramall Lane.

Arsenal, this year, will have home advantage as the Blades will come to Emirates stadium to face the challenge of Arsenal. There is no doubt, Arsenal is clearly favorite for the match and the Gunners should not have any problem to get through the fourth round of the tournament.

Reigning champion Tottenham Hotspur will face premier league rival Newcastle United. Suprs could not win against Newcastle in their last five encounters, so defending the title would not be so easy for Tottenham Hotspur this season. Manchester United will welcome Middlesbrough in the third round Carling Cup meeting, while last year’s beaten finalist Chelsea will travel to Portsmouth in their pursuit to retain the title. Previous season’s semi finalist Everton will visit to Blackburn, while League One side Crewe will come to Anfield with some strong challenges for Premier league club Liverpool.

Related article:

Guardian

Sunday, August 31, 2008

Arsene Wenger: Berbatov’s Transfer Saga Not Similar to Adebayor’s

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger does not think that Togolese striker Emmanuel Adebayor created a similar situation that Tottenham Hotspur’s Bulgarian international Dimitar Berbatov has created recently, calling for a move to Manchester United. However, Tottenham does not want to let the striker move to Old Trafford until they receive at least £28million as transfer fee. In response, Berbatov refused to play for Tottenham and stirred much anger among the team maters as well as Coach Juande Ramos.


Arsenal’s Togo international Emmanuel Adebayor seemed to leave the club at one point during the pre-season, and was linked with AC Milan and Barcelona, claiming an increase in his pay role. All the rumors and speculations around Adebayor’s future at Arsenal were put off when the player put pen on paper to come under a new contract with Arsenal.


However, Wenger is reluctant to compare the situation that Adebayor created with that of Berbatov. The French manager has said that Adebayor was committed to the club and Arsenal was his first choice, while Berbatov seems to want a move at this moment. That is what Wenger pointed out to differentiate between the two situations.


Related article:

Goal.com

Players Should not become Complacent After Newcastle Victory

Arsenal completely outclassed Newcastle yesterday by 3-0. Many websites and newspapers have praised Arsene Wenger boys a lot for this amazing victory. Let me give you some headlines from some Arsenal blogs:

Three goals, clean sheet, three points. Lovely.

Black and white convicts dispatched

Given Heroics Unable to Stop Rampant Gunners

Well, I am not that much impressed with yesterday’s victory for three reasons. Firstly, Arsenal played the match at home at the Emirates Stadium in front of its own supporters. The club is always good at home. Secondly, Newcastle threatened them quite a few times. I agree that Arsenal should have got some more goals but I could not see the killer instinct among the players. This is much needed to win both at England in Europe.

Team effort was good and at times, there were vintage Arsenal attacks. This is the best thing that has come from this game- team effort. However, I just wish that Arsenal players don’t become complacent because of the praise of the media and fans. Instead, they should focus on the next game against Blackburn. That one will be an away match and they must not repeat the performance of last week.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Arsenal vs Newcastle United EPL 2008-09: Live Score and Updates

Arsenal (3) vs Newcastle United (0)

Full time: Arsenal has won the match 3-0 showing excellent performance.

+2 minutes: Arsenal is in attack.

90 minutes: Alumnia saved excellently as Newcastle tried to break Arsenal's clean sheet.

84 minutes: Newcastle is now in attack.

81 minutes: Arsenal got a free kick just few inches outside the box. Nasri took it excellently that needed Newcastle keeper save it for corner.

74 minutes: Toure got a good chance, but his head went to opposition keeper's grip.

70 minutes: Denilson was unsubstituted by Song. Arsenal had another good attack, but Newcastle United goal keeper gripped it.

66 minutes: Arseanl is dominating in the match.

61 minutes: van Persie was unlucky as his shot hit the bar which could have brought his hat trick in the match

60 minutes: Denilson scored the third goal for Arsenal from a close range shot.

56 minutes: Newcastle is trying to create chances. They got a corner, taken excellently as it touched the bar.

52 minutes: Newcastle is now on attack.

46 minutes: The second half started. van Persie looked little injured.

Half Time: It is now half time at Emirates stadium now. Arsenal is leading by 2-0 thanks to two strike by van Persie. We will come back with second half action.

45 minutes: Alumnia magnificently saved Owen header for corner.

44 minutes: Arsenal is now on attack.

41 minutes: van Persie scored second goal for Arsenal from an excellent pass.

39 minutes: Michael Owen missed perhaps the best chance for the newcastle from close-in position. Adebayor missed similar chance in the end for Arsenal.

35 minutes: Attacking, counter-attacking is going on in the match now. Arsenal went up in a counter attack.

33 minutes: Arsenal is in attack now.

30 minutes: van Persie had an excellent free kick taken just outside the box and Newcastle keeper also saved it magnificently.

29 minutes: Arsenal got a free kick from just outside the box, but Fabregas shot was blocked at the Newcastle wall.

27 minutes: van Persie had a good run in the left side and went up to send a cross for Adebayor, but the Togolese just missed to reach the ball. Newcastle got a free kick in the end.

25 minutes: Newcastle had an unsuccessful attack.

23 minutes: Neither side is dominating now.

20 minutes: Arsenal looks more confident now.

18 minutes: Arsenal got penalty. van Persie scored it. Arsenal is now leading by 1-0

16 minutes: It is now playing in the midfield now. England coach Fabeo Capello is watching the match sitting in the stadium. van Persie achieved a corner in the end.

13 minutes: Arsenal had another attack, but Adebayor could not reach the ball.

12 minutes: Arsneal is attacking more in the match.

10 minutes: Arsenal is now on attack. Gunners looked dangerous.

Here, in this entry we will be giving online live score and updates of Arsenal vs Newcastle United premier league match. So, to enjoy the text commentary of the match be with us and enjoy our updates. The match kicks off at 17:30 BST.

Patrick Vieira, ‘Arsenal Needs a Big Leader in the Midfield’

Former Arsenal Cpatian Patrick Vieira has recently revealed that Arsenal should buy a strong, experienced centre midfielder this Summer in order to become a strong contender for the silverware. However, the current Inter Milan player believes that the Gunners have the ability to win against any side in their days. What he picked up as Arsenal’s weakness is lack of experience which, he insisted, would be crucial in the big games.


Arsenal lost a number of first choices in the midfield over the Summer including Matthieu Flamini, Gilberto Silva and Alex Hleb, while signed youngsters like Samir Nasri and Araon Ramsey. Recently, Wenger landed former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre at Emirates stadium, and to Vieira, Silvestre could spend a successful stint at Arsenal with the ability to cope up with pressure using mental strength and talent.


Related article:

Goal.com

Arsene Wenger Can Afford a £30m Signing, Says Arsenal Director Danny Fiszman

Danny Fiszman holds the second largest stock in Arsenal share. So, when he recently claimed that Arsenal could spend £30m for a new signing, there was enough reason to believe him. Now, if he is to be believed then it is for sure Arsenal has the financial ability to move for a record signing.


The Arsenal director also confirmed the decision to sign any players is up to Arsene Wenger; not to the investors and shareholders. Fiszman rejected ideas of Arsenal’s financial crisis, claiming that Arsenal does not need any more investment and the club can survive by its own. He also backed Wenger’s strategy of recruiting young players over aged players because he thinks matured players need more time to adjust with Arsenal’s style of football.


Well, now it is clear that Arsenal has enough money to buy a new signing, which has been centre of talk among Arsenal fans recently. However, still it is up to Arsene Wenger who will take the final decision. Now, let us see if Wenger brings in any more players at Emirates stadium before the Summer transfer window closes.


Related article:

Daily Star

Arsenal Hoping for a Strong Come Back against Newcastle United

Arsenal is facing Newcastle United tonight with the hope to bounce back in premier league to put their Fulham setback behind. However, a strong performance is eagerly anticipated from the Arsenal boys tonight. Arsenal defeated the Magpies twice last season in premier league, clinching 3-0 victories both in home and away. Naturally, the expectation is higher among the Arsenal fans.


The good thing for Wenger is that he does not need to contend with any fresh injury. With Fabregas making a satisfactory come back from hamstring injury, Gunners midfield looks stronger and more united and that must be a pleasant feeling for the fans. However, new signing Mikael Silvestre will remain sidelined with thigh injury. Moreover, long term absentees like Eduardo, Abou Diaby and Tomas Rosicky are still recovering from their injury problems.


William Gallas and Theo Walcot suffered minor knock in knee during their 4-0 thrash over Twente, but both the players are expected to be available for tonight’s home fixture against Newcastle United. Another key player Samir Nasri also shook off a stomach bug which sidelined Nasri during midweek victory over the Dutch club. I think, Emmanuel Adebayor will be in the starting line up against Newcastle United, while Nicklas Bendtner will be in the substitute bench.


Newcastle United started off well in the season with a draw at Manchester United in the opening match and then a victory over Bolton Wanderers last week- thus accumulating four points from two matches. However, coach Kevin Keegan will be without a number of injured players including Geremi, Obafemi Martins, Mark Viduka, Damien Duff, Claudio Cacapa and Andy Carroll. Injury badly affected their front line, leaving Michael Owen as the only fit notable striker now. Joey Barton might come back in the match.


To be honest, I do not expect anything bigger from Arsenal, rather I will just be happy to see the Gunners leaving the ground with three points, because for us, it is very important to be back in winning track in the league. If Gallas and co. can replicate their last season’s success over the Magpies, it will be something additional for the fans because, I think, Newcastle United looks stronger and sharper than they did last season. So, a victory should be the first priority for Arsenal.


Related article:

Sky Sports

Friday, August 29, 2008

Arsenal in the Group of Death in Champions League 2009?

Today, I was reading the previews of different groups in Techtainment. It seems that Liverpool is in a tough group of UEFA Champions League 2009. Then, what you would say about the group of Arsenal. Arsenal is with Fenerbahce, Porto and Dinamo Kiev. Porto and Dinamo Kiev have playing in Europe for many years and both of them know how to win titles in Europe- something which Arsenal is yet to get. You should not neglect Fenerbahce at all. It is a rising team in Europe. They have a well balanced team with some quality players. So, Arsene Wenger will have to focus a lot on Europe this time in the group stage.

Of course, in the qualifier, Arsenal played very well and defeated FC Twente convincingly. So, it seems that this time, Arsene Wenger is more confident in Europe. OF course, they need to focus on the EPL at this moment. Arsenal is going to play against Newcastle United this weekend. This is a must win game for them.

In the meantime, you can read Chamku Review- a review of a new Bollywood movie.