What now for Walcott?

[Cripps_orig]

Wenger says alot of things. End of the day Wenger and Bould and the Stiker coach/es see him in training and if they feel he is not progressing then he won't be played upfront regarless of what Wenger tells the press.

I Theo feels he is being hard done by then he should have left a few seasons ago.
He wasnt being hard done by then

He was young and he had his manager saying he will eventually play upfront so he gave it a few seasons, Wenger lied and now Theo is manning up

Good on him

[Olivier's xmas twist]

"“Many times in press conference people ask me why we don’t play Walcott in the middle so he can play there if we need to do it.”"

Well that tells me, AW will only play him there, if he feels he needs to.

[Kano]

what does that even mean?

[Letters]

ah yeah right. score 11 goals, set up 13 others and then there is no way he can link play or score goalsSounds like he's being pretty effective where he is. Why play him in a role he might not be as effective in?

[Olivier's xmas twist]

He wasnt being hard done by then

He was young and he had his manager saying he will eventually play upfront so he gave it a few seasons, Wenger lied and now Theo is manning up

Good on him

Not really Wenger did not say what year he play him as a striker. Its diffrent if he said in 2010/11 he'd be our striker and it never happend.

He said "one day", maybe one day he will.

[Kano]

@letters

because the manager and player obviously think he can do it elsewhere. otherwise, why keep saying it?

[Syn]

ah yeah right. score 11 goals, set up 13 others and then there is no way he can link play or score goals.

he's being mugged off by wenger.

There is absolutely nothing in this for Wenger. You guys are over thinking it. We're only 5 games in - theo will play. Just because Wenger isn't starting him right now doesn't mean he thinks theo is useless or he is blackmailing theo to sign a contract. For the league, Wenger picks the team that he feels is his best. He will be starting a fair bit soon anyway.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

what does that even mean?

Im guessing, he won't be played there, till we really need him to.

[Özim]

september last year

"“But I believe that Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a central midfielder one day and Walcott a central striker one day."

"“Many times in press conference people ask me why we don’t play Walcott in the middle so he can play there if we need to do it.”"
The first statement, simply says one day he feels he could play as a striker...there's no set timeline for this though maybe Wenger is thinking when he's a bit older.

The second statement suggests to me that this is a last resort if we have no other options, it's clear that Wenger doesn't feel there's a need to play him there at this stage.

I'm not convinced Wenger will ever play him as a striker for any prolongued period, if he wants to leave because of that I think he should.

[Cripps_orig]

Not really Wenger did not say what year he play him as a striker. Its diffrent if he said in 2010/11 he'd be our striker and it never happend.

He said "one day", maybe one day he will.
Yeah well Theo cant wait around forever and hes manned up now

For years, we have been moaning about our players being pussy ass bitches. Now one mans up and hes being critisised for it :rolleyes:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

i guess its called faith in the manager, rather than running off at the first sight of disagreement. that's what we want as fans isn't it?

he can tell the press what he wants of course but if he thinks that doesnt come back to the players then he is in cloud cuckooland.

Well i doubt AW is not that stupid, end of the day he is the manager anf he picks the team, Its down to the lad to prove he is good enough to play. Maybe he has and maybe he is being mugged off. If he leaves good luck to him, if he stays hope he proves me and others wrong, id be happy if he became a world class striker.

There are lots of players, who are played out of posistion who don't moan, there are players who don't even get games he should be lucky he is.

[Kano]

There is absolutely nothing in this for Wenger. You guys are over thinking it. We're only 5 games in - theo will play. Just because Wenger isn't starting him right now doesn't mean he thinks theo is useless or he is blackmailing theo to sign a contract. For the league, Wenger picks the team that he feels is his best. He will be starting a fair bit soon anyway.

i think in the longterm he is being mugged off. not just now but for the past few years. i'm not sure it was ever in his plan to move him really. which is fair enough but he should really stop banging on about it.

[Letters]

Yeah well Theo cant wait around forever and hes manned up now
:wave: then.

[Power n Glory]

I think I'm a little more cynical than you letters - and the reason is simple. It was walcott and his people that delayed contract talks initially because he wanted to see if we got CL footie...remember now he's 22, not as if he's running out of time is it? Then a very good deal was offered and rejected over reported 75k - 100k difference...and now it's not about that at all...it;s always been because he wants to play upfront. Now if Van Persie was still here and playing up front, do you think Walcott would ever dare to say anything like that? - think this young man getting a bit ahead of himself and listening to the wrong people. He wants to go. It's obvious. If Man U come in with an offer for example he'd be off quicker than you could say boo, regardless if we were playing him upfront. Van Persie sent out a strong signal with his statement and impressionable players like walcott fell for it, hook, line and sinker. He wont sign even if he plays every game from now until Jan up front....which of course he now wont because he's basically challenged Wenger's power...so then he'll know he'll have the perfect 'alibi' to leave with his 'conscience' clear. It's very transparent for me.

Where did you get that info from about his people delaying contract talks because I've heard differently. I was watching Sunday Supplement and one of the journalists was talking about our contract situation and said it was that were taking ages to initiate talks with his people. And if I remember correctly, during his last contract talks, it was a similar story and Theo made a comment to the press about us taking him for granted an assuming he'll sign any deal.

Also, I think your taking it a bit far with this outrage. Theo hasn't issued an ultimatum through the press. If anything, he's spoken to Wenger already and this is the short term agreement they have. He'll get his chance as striker. Wenger has already come out and said it wasn't about the money, he made another statement saying he was concerned about the reception he received during his last game and now Theo has made this statement clearing up the money issue. It looks like damage control and PR from the club so fans won't assume the worst and stop certain blogs from stoking the flames. Booing a player over this issue is silly especially when we have half of the information. This is probably why Wenger and now the player are trying to address the issue.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

The first statement, simply says one day he feels he could play as a striker...there's no set timeline for this though maybe Wenger is thinking when he's a bit older.

The second statement suggests to me that this is a last resort if we have no other options, it's clear that Wenger doesn't feel there's a need to play him there at this stage.

I'm not convinced Wenger will ever play him as a striker for any prolongued period, if he wants to leave because of that I think he should.

Spot on.


Yeah well Theo cant wait around forever and hes manned up now

For years, we have been moaning about our players being pussy ass bitches. Now one mans up and hes being critisised for it :rolleyes:

Your right he can't and if he feels he is being mugged on then he should go. If he thinks He wants to stay and be a legend fine, work hard and prove it.

[Kano]

The first statement, simply says one day he feels he could play as a striker...there's no set timeline for this though maybe Wenger is thinking when he's a bit older.

The second statement suggests to me that this is a last resort if we have no other options, it's clear that Wenger doesn't feel there's a need to play him there at this stage.

I'm not convinced Wenger will ever play him as a striker for any prolongued period, if he wants to leave because of that I think he should.

again that's fair enough but to bring it up every season is just stupid. side step the issue or just shut up.

not surprising that the player is now asking for the move to actually happen.

[Cripps_orig]

:wave: then.

I for one am glad someone is standing up to Wenger the right way instead of fucking off and running away ala RVP, Cesc etc

Theo wants to stay but on his terms and thats fine by me. Wenger needs to stfu and do what Theo wants or he needs to GTFO

[Syn]

i think in the longterm he is being mugged off. not just now but for the past few years. i'm not sure it was ever in his plan to move him really. which is fair enough but he should really stop banging on about it.

Oh you mean position, I thought you meant keeping him on the bench. Yeah it's possible Arsene had promised him a role upfront sooner. Now I think he is going to play centrally but will compete with Gerv. If he impresses, I'm sure Wenger won't hold him back just to punish him for not signing a contract. That's not how Wenger works.

[Özim]

again that's fair enough but to bring it up every season is just stupid. side step the issue or just shut up.

not surprising that the player is now asking for the move to actually happen.
I don't disagree, but Wenger always comes up with answers for these things when maybe he should just not talk about them. I personally thinks it adds to the frustrations for players and fans alike.

[LDG]

There is absolutely nothing in this for Wenger. You guys are over thinking it. We're only 5 games in - theo will play. Just because Wenger isn't starting him right now doesn't mean he thinks theo is useless or he is blackmailing theo to sign a contract. For the league, Wenger picks the team that he feels is his best. He will be starting a fair bit soon anyway.

Leaving him out of the side will show Theodore's cards (as is already being proven by the statement).

Now we just need the statement of intent on the pitch.

Walcott has always been a player who needs winding up. Get the pussy angry, and he'll gush.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

I for one am glad someone is standing up to Wenger the right way instead of fucking off and running away ala RVP, Cesc etc

Theo wants to stay but on his terms and thats fine by me. Wenger needs to stfu and do what Theo wants or he needs to GTFO

Yep he really is showing him.


Wenger needs to stfu and do what Theo wants or he needs to GTFO

Yep thats how it works, Managers bowing to their employess all the time.

[Özim]

IMO Walcott always has been and always will be a super sub you bring on later in the game when the opposition players have tired legs, in that scenario his pace causes a lot of problems, when he starts games he's generally totally ineffective because players who aren't tired can deal with him since he can't dribble or beat players.

[Cripps_orig]

Yep he really is showing him.



Yep thats how it works, Managers bowing to their employess all the time.
Never said thats how it works

[Cripps_orig]

IMO Walcott always has been and always will be a super sub you bring on later in the game when the opposition players have tired legs, in that scenario his pace causes a lot of problems, when he starts games he's generally totally ineffective because players who aren't tired can deal with him since he can't dribble or beat players.
Apart from when he actually does

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Leaving him out of the side will show Theodore's cards (as is already being proven by the statement).



I always thought buying Poldi, meant Theo would leave rather then RVP and i think that was the plan.

[Syn]

Yep thats how it works, Managers bowing to their employess all the time.

That is how Wenger works. Bows down to employers and employees for a piece of the pie and then preaches principles he cant follow. How about calling RVP a rapist you fucking botox'd WUM. Then I'd respect you again.

[Özim]

Apart from when he actually does
He doesn't have the intelligence on the ball or skill to beat players with anything but pace, he's fast which is effective at time but if he was a more rounded footballer he's had a much greater impact, particularly in games he starts.

[Power n Glory]

The thing is though most of the players you mentioned had proved themselves at a club in their respective positions, Walcott hasn't.

Most people are just not convinced about him, whether it be on the wing or up front. If he was that good he'd have taken his chances when he did feature up front and convinced everyone that's where he has to be played. He's clearly not done that.


No because its not his posistion and he has proved himself a stiker. he has done that from his Westham days. Yeah Theo may have been a stiker at saints but doing it there and doing it at Arsenal are 2 diffrent things. Do you think He could lead the line alone and we can rely on him when we play teams like Barca/Real etc?

@Itsme – How would someone like Defoe be able to prove himself as a striker if he's out on the wing all the time? What's the criteria we're judging on? Goals maybe? Theo's scoring goals, getting assists and making smart runs, but he's not developing as a winger. Is there any surprise in that? If he was to play any better as a winger there would be absolutely no need to shift him up front. Why do it when he can score, create and trouble defenders with his pace from the right like a Ronaldo type?

@Charlie – Regardless of how long ago it was, he's not going to develop dribbling skills and become a winger. It's not his natural position and Wenger has said his future is as a striker. The player feel comfortable in that position as well. Would Theo be able to lead the line at Barca or Real? If he had moved there when he was 16 probably. People keep saying he can't play with his back to goal, but how are you supposed to develop that sort of movement as a striker?

[Cripps_orig]

He doesn't have the intelligence on the ball or skill to beat players with anything but pace, he's fast which is effective at time but if he was a more rounded footballer he's had a much greater impact, particularly in games he starts.
So like Henry then?

Cos more often than not, all he did was kick the ball past them and out pace them. If thats your strength then use it. Dont knock him for it

[Letters]

Apart from when he actually does
Which frankly isn't that often. Most of the time he just runs into them and loses the ball.

[Syn]

I am a fan of natural ability. You can't learn to play like Cazorla or Hleb or Iniesta. You're either born with it or you're not. But we do overrate what is considered 'natural ability'. Ljungberg used to be an awful finisher in his early days - remember frustrating us almost like Gerv is now. Theo has the right mentality and can learn to take players on. He just needs to wait a bit more before committing. With pace like his it should be easy.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

That is how Wenger works. Bows down to employers and employees for a piece of the pie and then preaches principles he cant follow. How about calling RVP a rapist you fucking botox'd WUM. Then I'd respect you again.

Never said its not how AW works, not sure why id call RVP a rapist since he is not one.

[Syn]

Never said its not how AW works, not sure why id call RVP a rapist since he is not one.

Never said you should, Charlie. I was talking to Wumger....unless you too Botox.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Never said you should, Charlie. I was talking to Wumger....unless you too Botox.

Sorry, thougt you was having a go at me for a min, thought Fuck i pissed od Syn lol.

Oh Yeah i agree

Wumger :pal:

[Özim]

So like Henry then?

Cos more often than not, all he did was kick the ball past them and out pace them. If thats your strength then use it. Dont knock him for it
No because Henry had some amazing skill as well, he wasn't just about pace.

The problem with Walcott is the fact that Theo struggles to make an impact when he starts games for the simple reason that he relies on his pace only. As a sub he's great but as a starter he's not so good.

[Özim]

@Itsme – How would someone like Defoe be able to prove himself as a striker if he's out on the wing all the time? What's the criteria we're judging on? Goals maybe? Theo's scoring goals, getting assists and making smart runs, but he's not developing as a winger. Is there any surprise in that? If he was to play any better as a winger there would be absolutely no need to shift him up front. Why do it when he can score, create and trouble defenders with his pace from the right like a Ronaldo type?
PNG you missed my point, I'm saying that those have proved themselves which means at some point they played in their favoured position and convinced their managers this was where they should be played.

I don't think Walcott has done that whenever he as played up front (which isn't as much as it could have been admittedly), if things aren't going the way you want them you have to force the manager's hand when the opportunity arrives, he just hasn't.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

@Charlie – Regardless of how long ago it was, he's not going to develop dribbling skills and become a winger. It's not his natural position and Wenger has said his future is as a striker. The player feel comfortable in that position as well. Would Theo be able to lead the line at Barca or Real? If he had moved there when he was 16 probably. People keep saying he can't play with his back to goal, but how are you supposed to develop that sort of movement as a striker?

The way i see it, Theo has a chance to prove himself tbh. If he does well up there in the games he is played this season, then no reason he should not be left there.

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

Never said its not how AW works, not sure why id call RVP a rapist since he is not one.

lolman wumming. Only the thick-as-fuck resort to it.

[Kano]

How about calling RVP a rapist you fucking botox'd WUM.
lolz

[Power n Glory]

I am a fan of natural ability. You can't learn to play like Cazorla or Hleb or Iniesta. You're either born with it or you're not. But we do overrate what is considered 'natural ability'. Ljungberg used to be an awful finisher in his early days - remember frustrating us almost like Gerv is now. Theo has the right mentality and can learn to take players on. He just needs to wait a bit more before committing. With pace like his it should be easy.

Learning to shoot and beating a man is different too. You can improve on shooting with practice. You just have to learn how to hit the target and the rest is up to the keeper. With dribbling, it's not so simple because you'll have to face different types of wing backs with varying skill, pace, strength, you get double teamed…dribbling skills you develop early. Remember watching a show about Brazilian futsal where most of the Brazil kids like Kaka and Robinho learn how to play. The kids that play in Brazil learn the technical dribbling stuff from toddler age and then the rest of the stuff comes later. I've never seen a player dramatically improve on his dribbling technique in the same way I've seen a player learn how to use his weaker foot or get confident in front of goal.

[Power n Glory]

PNG you missed my point, I'm saying that those have proved themselves which means at some point they played in their favoured position and convinced their managers this was where they should be played.

I don't think Walcott has done that whenever he as played up front (which isn't as much as it could have been admittedly), if things aren't going the way you want them you have to force the manager's hand when the opportunity arrives, he just hasn't.

Question is, do you think another manager would play them outside of their preferred position and keep playing them there for so long? If Theo had gone to any other club, he'd have been played as a striker because his strengths and weaknesses are that obvious.

Would any other manager play Defoe or Owen on the wing with the intention of playing them as a striker years later? How else can Theo prove his position as striker besides scoring goals? This is a very Wenger like problem and he's unconventional because I can't see any other manager trying this sort of thing. Besides Henry, has he successfully developed any other strikers like this?

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Durham been reading GW :haha:

Guess the topic?

[LDG]

Durham been reading GW :haha:

Guess the topic?

Letters Wedding?

[Shaqiri Is Boss]

Durham been reading GW :haha:

Guess the topic?
****s corner?

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Letters Wedding?


****s corner?

Well.....

[Syn]

Learning to shoot and beating a man is different too. You can improve on shooting with practice. You just have to learn how to hit the target and the rest is up to the keeper. With dribbling, it's not so simple because you'll have to face different types of wing backs with varying skill, pace, strength, you get double teamed…dribbling skills you develop early. Remember watching a show about Brazilian futsal where most of the Brazil kids like Kaka and Robinho learn how to play. The kids that play in Brazil learn the technical dribbling stuff from toddler age and then the rest of the stuff comes later. I've never seen a player dramatically improve on his dribbling technique in the same way I've seen a player learn how to use his weaker foot or get confident in front of goal.

I don't really agree because the problem isn't to do with accuracy with shooting. Even Mertesacker probably has the ability to slot it in the side-netting. But it's about replicating the pressure situation which you can't 'practice'. In that sense, you're more able to practice taking players on if you're having to skip past a bunch of different players in training. With the 'dribbling', we're not questioning Theo's technique, just his decision-making. He needs to know when to 'go', not how to Cazorla his way out with 500 touches. I think he could pick that up. I don't think Gervinho is particularly talented - he just confuses defenders by being weird.

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

Durham been reading GW :haha:

Guess the topic?

wenger being the best manager in the league?

[Olivier's xmas twist]

wenger being the best manager in the league?

in the pub team league ?

[Letters]

Durham been reading GW :haha:

Guess the topic?
If it's Walcott then it must be because he's Durham's been reading GW. It's not been in the papers or anything.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Where did you get that info from about his people delaying contract talks because I've heard differently. I was watching Sunday Supplement and one of the journalists was talking about our contract situation and said it was that were taking ages to initiate talks with his people. And if I remember correctly, during his last contract talks, it was a similar story and Theo made a comment to the press about us taking him for granted an assuming he'll sign any deal.

Also, I think your taking it a bit far with this outrage. Theo hasn't issued an ultimatum through the press. If anything, he's spoken to Wenger already and this is the short term agreement they have. He'll get his chance as striker. Wenger has already come out and said it wasn't about the money, he made another statement saying he was concerned about the reception he received during his last game and now Theo has made this statement clearing up the money issue. It looks like damage control and PR from the club so fans won't assume the worst and stop certain blogs from stoking the flames. Booing a player over this issue is silly especially when we have half of the information. This is probably why Wenger and now the player are trying to address the issue.

Wenger says anything to protect his players even the disloyal ones. It's not really about the money for Walcott himself but it sure is for those representing him...don't pretend any differently...it's their job to make the most money possible, often at the player's expense.
Not heard any booing, and if there has been then that's just plain silly, from silly people.
Yes, pretty sure there were lots of reports stating walcott's party wouldn't sit down for talks until they'd seen we'd qualified for CL...then it was a difference on salary and now it's about playing upfront. It's not outrage to be honest - just cynicism. If he signs I will be more than happy as I rate him and think we can get more out of him, but the whole situation is rather stinky if you ask me, and it's very unlikely he'll sign before Jan with the way it's gone so far.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Learning to shoot and beating a man is different too
But they go hand in hand and it's what makes a top 10 prem striker
You have to work yourself the space to get your shot off as it were...Walcott's goals often come from a through ball where he only has the keeper to beat, rarely is he able to score from a position with defenders in front of him...which is why...Arsene has been getting him to learn that skill from the right hand side. Every striker you mentioned in your previous post from Holt to Defoe, know how to work a defender to create space for the shot. Walcott has been getting there, but just can't do it consistently...once he does am sure he'll be ready to play up front.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

If it's Walcott then it must be because he's Durham's been reading GW. It's not been in the papers or anything.

:lol:

[Power n Glory]

But they go hand in hand and it's what makes a top 10 prem striker
You have to work yourself the space to get your shot off as it were...Walcott's goals often come from a through ball where he only has the keeper to beat, rarely is he able to score from a position with defenders in front of him...which is why...Arsene has been getting him to learn that skill from the right hand side. Every striker you mentioned in your previous post from Holt to Defoe, know how to work a defender to create space for the shot. Walcott has been getting there, but just can't do it consistently...once he does am sure he'll be ready to play up front.

The Chelsea goals. Working the ball to get space for a shot and beating the man are very different. Giroud and such strikers don't need to fully beat a man to a shot off. Sometimes all it takes is a touch forward and bang.

None of those strikers would be able to beat a left back consistently.

[Power n Glory]

Wenger says anything to protect his players even the disloyal ones. It's not really about the money for Walcott himself but it sure is for those representing him...don't pretend any differently...it's their job to make the most money possible, often at the player's expense.
Not heard any booing, and if there has been then that's just plain silly, from silly people.
Yes, pretty sure there were lots of reports stating walcott's party wouldn't sit down for talks until they'd seen we'd qualified for CL...then it was a difference on salary and now it's about playing upfront. It's not outrage to be honest - just cynicism. If he signs I will be more than happy as I rate him and think we can get more out of him, but the whole situation is rather stinky if you ask me, and it's very unlikely he'll sign before Jan with the way it's gone so far.

Isn't it his dad that represents him?

[IBK]

My tuppence worth?

If Wenger - who sees Theo every day in training - thought he would work effectively in our current system, then he would be playing him. Nothing to do with the contract situation.

It's all about what the player is worth. The club don't think he's worth more to us than £75K pw - and I would tend to agree. If another team want's to pick him up for more than that next year because he's on a Bosman that's their issue. There may be some takers, and if clubs won't pay that for him now either because they don't think he's worth more than we are offering or because they are confident he won't sign with us at the price we want - that's life. It doesn't mean that we should pay more than our own valuation.

I feel a bit sorry for Theo, because he is a striker not a winger - and I can sympathise with him not being able to play in his favoured position. But its no reason for us to play him there if it doesn't suit our system. He has been with us for a long time, and times change. That having been said, I have no doubt that his agent/PR team - having seen how RVC ballsed it up - are being a lot more careful with positioning their client - hence today's reported comments.

To think there are not financial issues mixed up with a desire to play in a favoured position is naive. To want us to pay over the odds for a player who is not worth £100Kpw to us is stupid.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Isn't it his dad that represents him?
It was initially, but I think they now have an agent/lawyer too.
To be honest, pay Walcott 100K/pw, give him a go upfront but explain to him that if the team needs him to play on the right, due to injuries or others being off form, then he has to play there. He's actually very good at covering the RB...I think he'd be wasted up front to be honest. There's nothing stopping him cutting inside, going central and taking the shot. He needs to be more greedy in a way. he needs to think like a striker...he's not selfish enough...so he needs to learn that to an extent.

[Cripps_orig]

he's not selfish enough...so he needs to learn that to an extent.

Have you seen who his manager is?

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Have you seen who his manager is?
:lol:
Yeah, but by being selfish, I mean knowing when to shoot, not just shooting for the sake of it. Henry got it down to a 't'.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

My tuppence worth?

If Wenger - who sees Theo every day in training - thought he would work effectively in our current system, then he would be playing him. Nothing to do with the contract situation.

It's all about what the player is worth. The club don't think he's worth more to us than £75K pw - and I would tend to agree. If another team want's to pick him up for more than that next year because he's on a Bosman that's their issue. There may be some takers, and if clubs won't pay that for him now either because they don't think he's worth more than we are offering or because they are confident he won't sign with us at the price we want - that's life. It doesn't mean that we should pay more than our own valuation.

I feel a bit sorry for Theo, because he is a striker not a winger - and I can sympathise with him not being able to play in his favoured position. But its no reason for us to play him there if it doesn't suit our system. He has been with us for a long time, and times change. That having been said, I have no doubt that his agent/PR team - having seen how RVC ballsed it up - are being a lot more careful with positioning their client - hence today's reported comments.

To think there are not financial issues mixed up with a desire to play in a favoured position is naive. To want us to pay over the odds for a player who is not worth £100Kpw to us is stupid.

:gp: totally spot on.

[Cripps_orig]

:lol:
Yeah, but by being selfish, I mean knowing when to shoot, not just shooting for the sake of it. Henry got it down to a 't'.

I agree with that. Twas against Soton when he should have shot instead of looking for Giroud who did f all to make space and receive the pass and the chance was gone. Fortunately we were 4-1 up and Theo scored later on with a decent finish with his left foot.

Should have had 2 though

[Marc Overmars]

To think there are not financial issues mixed up with a desire to play in a favoured position is naive. To want us to pay over the odds for a player who is not worth £100Kpw to us is stupid.

Why shouldn't he ask considering we have/had lesser players who've been on far more than they're worth anyway? He's not really being out of order. It's an unfortunate situation because he's indicated he'd like to stay, but if the club doesn't value him then what can you do?

If/when he leaves I'll wish him well.

[Xhaka Can’t]

So like Henry then?

Cos more often than not, all he did was kick the ball past them and out pace them. If thats your strength then use it. Dont knock him for it

Yeah, but when Henry kicked a ball past a player he didn't then run into said player.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Why shouldn't he ask considering we have/had lesser players who've been on far more than they're worth anyway? He's not really being out of order. It's an unfortunate situation because he's indicated he'd like to stay, but if the club doesn't value him then what can you do?

If/when he leaves I'll wish him well.

Yeah but according to him its not about the money, So why should he be upset if he gets 75K.

So would he take 100K and play on the right or 75K and play as a striker, Which do you think he'd go for?

[Ollie the Optimist]

walcott has been an idiot for releasing this statement/interview not because its got us talking about wether its money etc why he wont sign but because the next time he plays up front if he does at all, we as fans and wenger (because theo has said he has learnt his trade and its time to be up front) will expect him to prove it to us from the first minute. he has to score goals. he cant have a game or two to settle into his new role because of what he has said so if he doesnt deliever instantly the fans will moan. (rightly or wrongly) just look at giroud situation right now. theos just hsould have kept quiet.


though if its not about hte money, i wonder what would happen if arsenal offered him 75k and striker role

[Power n Glory]

Fans are moaning at him regardless. He played for 15minutes against City and fans still found a way to have a pop at him. Scored a goal in a game before that and people were talking about a pass to Giroud that wasn't on. He has to probe himself in every minute of every game at the moment. We still get throw away comments about his finishing ability, decision making and intelligence even though he's shown he can turn a game around and perform in the big games - Champs League, derby against Champions...he's had big moments against the best but it's always forgotten.

[V-Pig]

Because he's an average kid in a team with better players. Put him in a shit team with shit players (England) and he barely does anything (that one hat-trick years ago excepted).

[Cripps_orig]

Being our 2nd best player last season was hardly average tbh

[Cripps_orig]

Fans are moaning at him regardless. He played for 15minutes against City and fans still found a way to have a pop at him. Scored a goal in a game before that and people were talking about a pass to Giroud that wasn't on. He has to probe himself in every minute of every game at the moment. We still get throw away comments about his finishing ability, decision making and intelligence even though he's shown he can turn a game around and perform in the big games - Champs League, derby against Champions...he's had big moments against the best but it's always forgotten.

He hasnt scored 40 goals and assisted 20 others in every season tbh so he must be shit

[Xhaka Can’t]

Being our 2nd best player last season was hardly average tbh
We are not talking about Song.

Do keep up.

[Xhaka Can’t]

He hasnt scored 40 goals and assisted 20 others in every season tbh so he must be shit

He hasn't even scored 20 and assisted on 40.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Because he's an average kid in a team with better players. Put him in a shit team with shit players (England) and he barely does anything (that one hat-trick years ago excepted).

Well....


We are not talking about Song.

Do keep up.

:lol:

[Cripps_orig]

Whats with all this "well..." shit?

[Power n Glory]

Because he's an average kid in a team with better players. Put him in a shit team with shit players (England) and he barely does anything (that one hat-trick years ago excepted).

This is a perfect example of that amnesia I'm talking about. Didn't he come off the bench, score one and then set up another during the Euros? Didn't he just get an assist in the recent qualifiers? :lol:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Whats with all this "well..." shit?

was talking to V-Pig.

[Cripps_orig]

was talking to V-Pig.

But you have said it at other times

What does it mean?

[V-Pig]

Well then, I change my argument to this:

Anyone can score in a team of shit players. It's no achievement to be the best when you're surrounded by turd.

[Cripps_orig]

Well then, I change my argument to this:

Anyone can score in a team of shit players. It's no achievement to be the best when you're surrounded by turd.
Some would say its harder to score in a team of shit players

[V-Pig]

Only an idiot would argue that 10 posts ago.

[fakeyank]

Yeah, but when Henry kicked a ball past a player he didn't then run into said player.

:haha:

[V-Pig]

He's still the least naturally talented player in the (main) squad by some way. He should only be there for team spirit, like Eboue. Except Eboue was a lot cheaper. And Eboue could at least dive well.

[V-Pig]

In terms of dispensability, somewhere between Frimpong, Chamakh and Arshavin.

[Ollie the Optimist]

This is a perfect example of that amnesia I'm talking about. Didn't he come off the bench, score one and then set up another during the Euros? Didn't he just get an assist in the recent qualifiers? :lol:

thats the thing though, its always do remember that game or this game where he did something. its never ever do you remeber that run of games that he did well in? its always one off games that we talk about that are far apart from each other.

[Cripps_orig]

Scores goals and assists

Best average player of all time?

[V-Pig]

Scores goals and assists

Best average player of all time?

I'd go with this. His stats, though not great, don't reflect what an average player he is.

[Marc Overmars]

Yeah but according to him its not about the money, So why should he be upset if he gets 75K.

So would he take 100K and play on the right or 75K and play as a striker, Which do you think he'd go for?

It's hard trying to relate to a footballers way of thinking, they live in a completley different world. I mean, Ronaldo was crying the other week at Madrid because his pay wasn't in proportion. :doh:

The figures are insane to us but to him it's about feeling valued, footballers are huge egomaniacs and being paid x amount makes it arguably an issue of status. There's obviously no difference to us between 75k and 100k, but to him it's like being told he's an average-to-good squad member or a key player, something he now believes he is. He could be forgiven for thinking that considering he's one of the longest serving members of the squad and 2nd top scorer from the past couple of seasons.

I don't think we as a club or Theo have done anything wrong here. He's looking after himself and so are we, my only gripe is that we seem reluctant to pay a relatively small amount for a player who despite his faults, is actually someone worth having around IMO. I don't think any of us really understand why our pay structure is the way it is and that's where the problem lies.

[gooners]

ok; let's get this straight:

1. wenger goes and sign a youngster who sees his natural position to be that of a striker (wide or otherwise)

2. wenger then decides -- arbitrarily -- that he is going to deploy him primarily as a winger (probably cos of his pace)

3. theo is all grown up now and has had enough of such shit, so come contract renewal time as an adult he tells wenger 'play me in my natural position or fuck off'

4. fans get on his back for what exactly? that he has not proven himself sufficiently as a winger? --- he is fucking not one! --- and he is first to admit that. :rolleyes:

[Cripps_orig]

His stats for a player out of position are brilliant

And thats just his goals and assists.

If i mention his finishing, dribbling, fear factor other teams have including Barca, etc that is some average player we have

[Cripps_orig]

ok; let's get this straight:

1. wenger goes and sign a youngster who sees his natural position to be that of a striker (wide or otherwise)

2. wenger then decides -- arbitrarily -- that he is going to deploy him primarily as a winger (probably cos of his pace)

3. theo is all grown up now and has had enough of such shit, so come contract renewal time as an adult he tells wenger 'play me in my natural position or fuck off'

4. fans get on his back for what exactly? that he has not proven himself sufficiently as a winger? --- he is fucking not one! --- and he is first to admit that. :rolleyes:

Tbf its GW on his back

For the most part, fans at games love the guy

[V-Pig]

Well play him up front against Coventry then and if he doesn't score a hat-trick fine him two weeks' wages and make him get some shit tattoos. Oh... well fine him two weeks' wages then.

[Xhaka Can’t]

ok; let's get this straight:

1. wenger goes and sign a youngster who sees his natural position to be that of a striker (wide or otherwise)

2. wenger then decides -- arbitrarily -- that he is going to deploy him primarily as a winger (probably cos of his pace)

3. theo is all grown up now and has had enough of such shit, so come contract renewal time as an adult he tells wenger 'play me in my natural position or fuck off'

4. fans get on his back for what exactly? that he has not proven himself sufficiently as a winger? --- he is fucking not one! --- and he is first to admit that. :rolleyes:

But most aren't on his back. If anything, most have expressed ambivalence over whether he signs a new deal or not.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Well play him up front against Coventry then and if he doesn't score a hat-trick fine him two weeks' wages and make him get some shit tattoos. Oh... well fine him two weeks' wages then.

:haha:

[Ollie the Optimist]

ok; let's get this straight:

1. wenger goes and sign a youngster who sees his natural position to be that of a striker (wide or otherwise)

2. wenger then decides -- arbitrarily -- that he is going to deploy him primarily as a winger (probably cos of his pace)

3. theo is all grown up now and has had enough of such shit, so come contract renewal time as an adult he tells wenger 'play me in my natural position or fuck off'

4. fans get on his back for what exactly? that he has not proven himself sufficiently as a winger? --- he is fucking not one! --- and he is first to admit that. :rolleyes:

a 16 year old doesnt really know what he is talking about though when it comes to posistions etc because he hasnt fully devolped yet wenger will know more then a 16 year old who saw what he did with henry and thought yeah he can do that to me too

[Olivier's xmas twist]

It's hard trying to relate to a footballers way of thinking, they live in a completley different world. I mean, Ronaldo was crying the other week at Madrid because his pay wasn't in proportion. :doh:

The figures are insane to us but to him it's about feeling valued, footballers are huge egomaniacs and being paid x amount makes it arguably an issue of status. There's obviously no difference to us between 75k and 100k, but to him it's like being told he's an average-to-good squad member or a key player, something he now believes he is. He could be forgiven for thinking that considering he's one of the longest serving members of the squad and 2nd top scorer from the past couple of seasons.

I don't think we as a club or Theo have done anything wrong here. He's looking after himself and so are we, my only gripe is that we seem reluctant to pay a relatively small amount for a player who despite his faults, is actually someone worth having around IMO. I don't think any of us really understand why our pay structure is the way it is and that's where the problem lies.

:gp:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Tbf its GW on his back

For the most part, fans at games love the guy

Well half of the fans who phoned in TS felt he should go. So its not only GW. Go on goal.com/Sky sports Fans saying the same thing.

[Power n Glory]

thats the thing though, its always do remember that game or this game where he did something. its never ever do you remeber that run of games that he did well in? its always one off games that we talk about that are far apart from each other.

He had a run of good games last season and the season before that where Hansen was talking rubbish about him after scoring a hat trick.

[gooners]

a 16 year old doesnt really know what he is talking about though when it comes to posistions etc because he hasnt fully devolped yet wenger will know more then a 16 year old who saw what he did with henry and thought yeah he can do that to me too

why didn't wenger try and develop him as a goalkeeper/fullbck/cb/dm/STRiKER then? :good:

[Cripps_orig]

Well half of the fans who phoned in TS felt he should go. So its not only GW. Go on goal.com/Sky sports Fans saying the same thing.

Never said they werent

[Xhaka Can’t]

why didn't wenger try and develop him as a goalkeeper/fullbck/cb/dm/STRiKER then? :good:

too short/too stupid/too small/too lazy/too shit

[Ollie the Optimist]

He had a run of good games last season and the season before that where Hansen was talking rubbish about him after scoring a hat trick.

yeah that hatrick came in the second game of the season so it hardly helps your argument. last season i can think of a handful of good theo performances, first two that spring to mind are chelsea away and spurs at home (for a half) norwich away he was ok but i cant think of many 8/9 out of 10 performances

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Never said they werent

And where has this fans boo him at the ground come from. Don't think he gets boos, does he?

[gooners]

too short/too stupid/too small/too lazy/too shit

those are qualities that make an excellent WINGER though? :lol:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

He had a run of good games last season and the season before that where Hansen was talking rubbish about him after scoring a hat trick.

Yeah but who takes Hansen seriously.

[Cripps_orig]

Thats another thing

When people mention that SPuds game from last season and Theo, they always have to mention the few minutes in the first half where he was poor

Who cares? He scored 2 in the game

Henry, Wright, Bergkamp, RVP etc were all shit in many games they eventually scored in but lets not mention that shall we?

[Cripps_orig]

Yeah but who takes Hansen seriously.

Best in the world at what he does

[Ollie the Optimist]

Thats another thing

When people mention that SPuds game from last season and Theo, they always have to mention the few minutes in the first half where he was poor

Who cares? He scored 2 in the game

Henry, Wright, Bergkamp, RVP etc were all shit in many games they eventually scored in but lets not mention that shall we?

its like you and kos, you always have to mention he was shit in his first season. who cares? he was our best defender last season.

adams, bould, keown etc were all shit in many games but still kept clean sheets but lets not mention that shall we?

[Cripps_orig]

its like you and kos, you always have to mention he was shit in his first season. who cares? he was our best defender last season.

adams, bould, keown etc were all shit in many games but still kept clean sheets but lets not mention that shall we?

Well no, if they were shit, we'd have conceded a lot more than we did

[Xhaka Can’t]

those are qualities that make an excellent WINGER though? :lol:
Clearly not. :lol:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Henry, Wright, Bergkamp, RVP etc were all shit in many games they eventually scored in but lets not mention that shall we?

Yeah mabve 1 or 2 but other then that they were consistantly good. Yes Theo has had alot of good games. But not cosistantly.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Best in the world at what he does

Talking shite then? Then i agree.

[Ollie the Optimist]

Talking shite then? Then i agree.


enough about ach, we're talking about alan hansen

[Cripps_orig]

Talking shite then? Then i agree.
Well...

[Cripps_orig]

enough about ach, we're talking about alan hansen

Remind us again about how you laughed at Man City putting their CL games on General Sale when we do the same....

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Well...

:haha:

enough about ach, we're talking about alan hansen

True, true.

[Cripps_orig]

Yeah mayve 1 or 2 but other then that they were consistantly good. Yes Theo has had alot of good games. But not cosistantly.

1 or 2?

:lol:

That is all

[Olivier's xmas twist]

1 or 2?

:lol:

That is all

Well i don't Literally mean 1 or 2.

[Cripps_orig]

Well i don't Literally mean 1 or 2.

Never said you did

[Özim]

To be honest 100k is way too much for a player of his quality, I'd rather lose him on a free and have his wages to negotiate with on a new signing who is top notch.

[Power n Glory]

yeah that hatrick came in the second game of the season so it hardly helps your argument. last season i can think of a handful of good theo performances, first two that spring to mind are chelsea away and spurs at home (for a half) norwich away he was ok but i cant think of many 8/9 out of 10 performances

There is a limit to why he can do because he's not playing in his natural position for starters and last season was a struggle for everyone. Theo was one the few players to hit double figures for goals and assists. Post the invincible era, Theo has been one of our better wide players and it's not even his natural position. Rosicky, Nasri, Hleb, Gervinho, Reyes...they have all struggled out wide too.

He can't do anymore on the flanks besides what he's doing. Double figures for goals and assists is very good for any winger and Theo isn't a winger.

[Marc Overmars]

To be honest 100k is way too much for a player of his quality, I'd rather lose him on a free and have his wages to negotiate with on a new signing who is top notch.

Do not forget we have Eisfeld who can play there.

[IBK]

As usual, some people are mixing up whether Theo has done anything 'wrong' with whether he is entitled to seek a better pay deal. The player is entitled to do what he wants.

I don't see a massive anti Theo sentiment, but what I think people are a bit frustrated about is his failure to sign a new contract with us (and the fact that it is his representatives who have walked out of talks) when the stance that he appears to have adopted is out of kilter with his consistency. It is easy to forget that he played in the first match at the Emirates in 2006, having been signed for a fortune for his age. The general feeling is that he hasn't quite realised his potential -hence the antipathy with him seeming to be a bit of an 'RVP lite' in his approach to re-signing with us.

[Power n Glory]

As usual, some people are mixing up whether Theo has done anything 'wrong' with whether he is entitled to seek a better pay deal. The player is entitled to do what he wants.

I don't see a massive anti Theo sentiment, but what I think people are a bit frustrated about is his failure to sign a new contract with us (and the fact that it is his representatives who have walked out of talks) when the stance that he appears to have adopted is out of kilter with his consistency. It is easy to forget that he played in the first match at the Emirates in 2006, having been signed for a fortune for his age. The general feeling is that he hasn't quite realised his potential -hence the antipathy with him seeming to be a bit of an 'RVP lite' in his approach to re-signing with us.

Where are we getting this information about Theo's people walking out of contract talks? From what one of the journalists said on Sunday Supplement, there were preliminary talks with his people, which is the standard opening point and then it took ages for Arsenal to get back to his people and offer him a contract. All summer we had this talk about RVP but nothing on Walcott until late August. A bit crafty to offer a deal so late on and it's a bit of a strong arm move.

Considering what Song's agent said about how his contract was handled, how long it took for Theo's last deal, Nasri's, Flamini's and that unforgettable moment with Bergkamp, I'm guessing our contract people have been slow again. Theo said way back last October that he wanted to discuss a new deal so why wasn't it sorted back then?

[McNamara That Ghost...]

How could the contract be sorted? It can't be about money, Theo said so. Assuming that is actually true then it must be him wanting something about being played as a striker in there. If Wenger can't guarantee how often he will play there and he had something in his mind about letting Gervinho play in that role then it wouldn't have mattered had it been initiated a long time ago, it would've stalled from one side or the other.

[Power n Glory]

Even if it's not about money, Wenger could have tried playing Walcott up front in a few cup games from last season or during the pre season if playing as a striker was part of the deal. Regardless, talks should have started a lot earlier.

[Joker]

The only person I've seen mention Walcott and his people walk out of contract talks is Arseblog, and he's such a bootlicker for the board these days that it's difficult to believe anything he says. He's probably being drip fed info from an insider who's delivering the "official" party line to him, the same with Song's apparent bad behaviour.

And all in all, I think Wenger was too obsessed with thinking he could do to Walcott what he did to Henry. Just because it worked with Thierry doesn't mean the same process would work with other players. That's the problem with Wenger, he's become a bit of a one trick pony and at least until recently was stuck in a mindset whereby he would do things that worked in the past, but have failed to deliver the payoff these days. He's played players like Denilson, Bendtner, Eduardo, Vela, Diaby and of course Walcott all out of position because he's been trying to recreate some form of "total football" where players are adaptable and can play in multiple positions if the need arises. However, rather than making these players into better footballers, all that happened was that our team performance suffered due to having square pegs in round holes, and the aforementioned players didn't really develop the skills that Wenger wanted them to develop.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

He could have but that's not going to give Theo assurances he will be played there indefinitely. If we're right to assume that's what he wants in the contract then he wants it in writing how he will be played there, not verbally. I'd hope that isn't the case because that's really a silly road for Theo to go down.

[Kano]

Talks should have started a long long time ago to give us more room to manoeuvre. set a deadline for discussions to be resolved and if no agreement is reached by then you shift him on. how we keep getting into these situations is anyone's guess.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

I don't really care in this instance quite honestly, Wenger shouldn't be tied down on selecting players where he feels best for the team because a piece of paper says so.

[Kano]

i agree with that but the ongoing issue of how we handle contracts and the hassle that comes along with that really has to be addressed. this sort of mess can't keep dragging on season on season.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

You find out what the players truly want this way. :lol:

To be honest, I don't think the contract situations are that important (to me) and I say that because it is only in the last year players have gone down to the end of their contracts but before that we were still selling players with regularity. This cycle will continue whether players are under contract or not until we finally win or challenge hardily for one of the big two trophies, possibly an FA Cup but I would say that's at least doubtful to satiate players.

[Power n Glory]

The only person I've seen mention Walcott and his people walk out of contract talks is Arseblog, and he's such a bootlicker for the board these days that it's difficult to believe anything he says. He's probably being drip fed info from an insider who's delivering the "official" party line to him, the same with Song's apparent bad behaviour.

And all in all, I think Wenger was too obsessed with thinking he could do to Walcott what he did to Henry. Just because it worked with Thierry doesn't mean the same process would work with other players. That's the problem with Wenger, he's become a bit of a one trick pony and at least until recently was stuck in a mindset whereby he would do things that worked in the past, but have failed to deliver the payoff these days. He's played players like Denilson, Bendtner, Eduardo, Vela, Diaby and of course Walcott all out of position because he's been trying to recreate some form of "total football" where players are adaptable and can play in multiple positions if the need arises. However, rather than making these players into better footballers, all that happened was that our team performance suffered due to having square pegs in round holes, and the aforementioned players didn't really develop the skills that Wenger wanted them to develop.


Talks should have started a long long time ago to give us more room to manoeuvre. set a deadline for discussions to be resolved and if no agreement is reached by then you shift him on. how we keep getting into these situations is anyone's guess.

That's my guess too and it keeps on getting repeated along with the money demands.

@Terry – I agree. It's no good setting a deadline for this January.

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

i agree with that but the ongoing issue of how we handle contracts and the hassle that comes along with that really has to be addressed. this sort of mess can't keep dragging on season on season.

http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/article6423159.ece/ALTERNATES/w620/Ivan+Gazidis
































































http://www.setanta.com/Global/Images/sport/football/2011-2012/Premier%20League/Arsenal/Arsene%20Wenger/WengerArsene_Smiles.jpg

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Wenger, he's become a bit of a one trick pony and at least until recently was stuck in a mindset where by he would do things that worked in the past, but have failed to deliver the payoff these days. He's played players like Denilson, Bendtner, Eduardo, Vela, Diaby and of course Walcott all out of position because he's been trying to recreate some form of "total football"


Well no he has played them out of position because, we have had better players in those positions. So your saying Wenger should have played Denilson in a role that Cesc and Nasri plaed in. Or Bendtner in a role we clearly was not good enough for. Same with the others.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

You find out what the players truly want this way. :lol:

To be honest, I don't think the contract situations are that important (to me) and I say that because it is only in the last year players have gone down to the end of their contracts but before that we were still selling players with regularity. This cycle will continue whether players are under contract or not until we finally win or challenge hardily for one of the big two trophies, possibly an FA Cup but I would say that's at least doubtful to satiate players.

:gp:

[fakeyank]

Well no he has played them out of position because, we have had better players in those positions. So your saying Wenger should have played Denilson in a role that Cesc and Nasri plaed in. Or Bendtner in a role we clearly was not good enough for. Same with the others.

No, Wenger shouldve played a different formation. There was absolutely no reason to ruin the Arsenal careers of Bendy, Eduardo, Vela, Chakma, Park by playing them on the wings. Add Walcott now to that list..

[Fist of Lehmann]

No, Wenger shouldve played a different formation. There was absolutely no reason to ruin the Arsenal careers of Bendy, Eduardo, Vela, Chakma, Park by playing them on the wings. Add Walcott now to that list..

Yes. Such is Wenger's all-encompassing culpability that he may as well have broken Eduardo's leg himself.

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

leave him alone. he's the best manager in the league.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

No, Wenger shouldve played a different formation. There was absolutely no reason to ruin the Arsenal careers of Bendy, Eduardo, Vela, Chakma, Park by playing them on the wings. Add Walcott now to that list..

Maybe, but Aw has his way of playing and onlt few players fit into that. Love how one minuite people say the likes of denilson/Bendy/Vela are shit and we never should have bought them. then when it suits them it was Wenger who ruined them.

[fakeyank]

Yes. Such is Wenger's all-encompassing culpability that he may as well have broken Eduardo's leg himself.

:doh:

Nice to disregard all the other names in that list :rolleyes:

[fakeyank]

Maybe, but Aw has his way of playing and onlt few players fit into that. Love how one minuite people say the likes of denilson/Bendy/Vela are shit and we never should have bought them. then when it suits them it was Wenger who ruined them.

Who are 'them'? I clearly rated and still rate Bendy and Vela... Denilson is gob shite and thats why didnt get a mention in my list. In fact, I think he got more than enough opportunities to prove himself.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Who are 'them'? I clearly rated and still rate Bendy and Vela... Denilson is gob shite and thats why didnt get a mention in my list. In fact, I think he got more than enough opportunities to prove himself.

Oh i was not talking about you, just in the general.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

He's only really capable of playing striker in a 442 system and none of the top teams plays that anymore. Unless he wants a move to the likes of Stoke I suggest he STFU and signs a new contract.

We've survived so far without him and we'll survive the entire season if we need to. Yes he's valuable but there's enough quality in the squad to replace the goals and assists he provides.

[fakeyank]

He's only really capable of playing striker in a 442 system and none of the top teams plays that anymore. Unless he wants a move to the likes of Stoke I suggest he STFU and signs a new contract.

We've survived so far without him and we'll survive the entire season if we need to. Yes he's valuable but there's enough quality in the squad to replace the goals and assists he provides.

City still plays 4-4-2 and Utd do too with Rooney playing a deeper role. They do change to a 4-3-3 when they play in Europe or good teams away. Against shit teams, they play a 4-4-2

[Fist of Lehmann]

:doh:

Nice to disregard all the other names in that list :rolleyes:

Do you also plant turds in your stew and then say "How nice you disregard the beef :rolleyes:" ?

[Xhaka Can’t]

Do you also plant turds in your stew and then say "How nice you disregard the beef :rolleyes:" ?

The turds are seasoned tbf.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

We should deffo play Theo upfront vs Chavs tbh.

[fakeyank]

We should deffo play Theo upfront vs Chavs tbh.

That would be nice.. May be bench Gervinho and play Ox Pod Wally in a front three. JT will shit his pants!

[Cripps_orig]

Nothing more to be said

[Olivier's xmas twist]

That would be nice.. May be bench Gervinho and play Ox Pod Wally in a front three. JT will shit his pants!

Yep, but i can see all those rested playing, And Theo Starting in the Cl game.

[Letters]

Nothing more to be said
:gp:

Wenger's got it right again. Played him out wide and he scored 2 goals. Definitely his most effective position.

Wenger :bow:

[Master Splinter]

:gp:

Wenger's got it right again. Played him out wide and he scored 2 goals. Definitely his most effective position.

Wenger :bow:

From both wings too!

A complete winger.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

It's true. Walcott would be wasted playing centrally...and the thing is, Wenger always gives players freedom to rotate in a game...and Theo's second goal was very much like Henry would do, drift in centrally from the wing. His first was a classic Theo goal, ball passed through to him, pace takes it beyond defender and great finish. I just don't see why he want's to limit himself as a CF? He'll jeapordise his england place too imo. If he can score a total of 15 goals this season (if he hangs around that is) he'll really start being able to earn the freedom that Henry earnt.

[GP]

:gp:

Wenger's got it right again. Played him out wide and he scored 2 goals. Definitely his most effective position.

Wenger :bow:

Yep, it's quite clear that's his best position.

It shouldn't even be up for debate.

[Syn]

Everyone runs everywhere anyway. It's not really that important if we don't hold a fixed shape. I get the "It's only Coventry" caution but Theo did himself no harm last night. There were goals to be had and he got them. Still don't think he'll start on Saturday though because he played 90 mins. Said before season started that Theo would get 20+ goals...he's on 3 so far. Do-able IMO.

[Kano]

Yep, it's quite clear that's his best position.

It shouldn't even be up for debate.

wenger started the debate tbf.

[GP]

wenger started the debate tbf.

Wenget is a WUM.

[Power n Glory]

Why move him to play as striker? Because he lacks consistency on the wing and isn't always as effective, there is a general perception that he lacks footballing intelligence and is limited technically, also before the game a lot of people were saying they were fine with him leaving the club even though he averages 1 goal in 3 games from the flanks.

He lacks consistency because he's not confident playing on the wing and he doesn't have all the tools. Yeah, he can get goals and assists from the flanks but if we want to apply that logic, we can say the same about Arshavin and ignore his main weakness because he too has the ability to score goals and get assists from the flanks. But can he score more and assist more from another position and play to his strengths well cutting out a major weakness, which is his stamina and defensive issues? We've seen how vulnerable we are when he plays down the flanks.

It's about playing players to there strengths and not putting them in a position where their weakness are exposed. Arshavin has taken a lot of slack from the fans because of this and it's the same for Theo as seen over the past few days. That first goal he took was a very good finish and the second goal was Henry like and that's another point that needs stressing, if we're going to play him on the flank, put him on the left at least because that is where Henry would play as a winger anyway. It's much easier to cut in and bend the ball around the keeper because the first goal required pinpoint accuracy while having a defender on his shoulder trying to make the angle even more acute.

[GP]

Arshavin has taken a lot of flack because he's a lazy shite.

It's got nothing to do with the position he's played in.

[Power n Glory]

Arshavin has taken a lot of flack because he's a lazy shite.

It's got nothing to do with the position he's played in.

There are plenty of players out there like that but the manager would never play them in a position where we'd be left vulnerable and his weakness exposed. Even when trying to defend he was totally clueless.

I remember watching a documentary on Ginola and Keegan told him not to worry about defending because he was lazy and just told him to do what he does best. Gave him a free role instead. If a guy is approaching 30 and doesn't have the legs, stamina or discipline to defend, why put him in a position that leaves us vulnerable when there is space to place him in a position that is occupied by a much weaker player and where he'd be more effective?

[Xhaka Can’t]

Yeah, and look at all the success Keegan had.

Sent from my HTC One S using Tapatalk 2

[GP]

:lol: Indeed.

[Power n Glory]

Bah…the point gets lost on you guys. Most managers wouldn't put a gut with low work rate down on the flanks and we could have made better use of the guy in the middle behind the striker over Ramsey last season.

[Xhaka Can’t]

I get your point but I figured the quip about Keegan was gold.

I'm not going to waste an opportunity like that.

Sent from my HTC One S using Tapatalk 2

[Power n Glory]

Fair play, GB.

[IBK]

@ the people suggesting that the failure to re-sign Theo is because the club won't meet with his agents rather than the other way round.

Firstly Wenger has said repeatedly over the past few months that the club is engaged in talks. I accept that people have the right not to believe this. But the reality is that noone knows the truth, so noone can claim the high ground over what is really happening.

Secondly, if the contract talks aren't about money, this would be an almost unprecedented situation in the light of what we know about footballers and contracts. Funny how some people seem to believe that Theo is some kind of a saint whose people wouldn't stoop to putting pressure on the club wages-wise. I simply can't buy the idea that this situation is not money related.

Lastly, even if the club rather than Theo's people are playing hardball over wages, it will have its reasons for doing so. For me, people beating the club up over Theo's contract situation are doing so as part of the general disenchantment with the perception of us being a selling club interested only in making money. If so, this is less a debate over Theo, and more a wider denate that has been well-worn. But I see nothing wrong with a manager assessing a player's worth and setting a maximum wage limit accordingly. Theo contributes goals and assists, but I can sympathise with a manager looking at his consistency over the past 7 years, and feeling that he does not merit the club's highest pay bracket. I think that its easy to forget that the wages that the petrodallar clubs and Manure are able to pay are simply in a different bracket to what everyone else, Arsenal included, can pay, and its dangerous to judge the club's stance accordingly.

[Kano]

For me, people beating the club up over Theo's contract situation are doing so as part of the general disenchantment with the perception of us being a selling club interested only in making money.
given the loop we have fallen into with these contract situations, it points to poor organisation rather than a focus on purely making money. which is shocking given the 'high level' of 'executives' supposedly working 'all hours' to finalise these things.

[Power n Glory]

@ the people suggesting that the failure to re-sign Theo is because the club won't meet with his agents rather than the other way round.

Firstly Wenger has said repeatedly over the past few months that the club is engaged in talks. I accept that people have the right not to believe this. But the reality is that noone knows the truth, so noone can claim the high ground over what is really happening.

Secondly, if the contract talks aren't about money, this would be an almost unprecedented situation in the light of what we know about footballers and contracts. Funny how some people seem to believe that Theo is some kind of a saint whose people wouldn't stoop to putting pressure on the club wages-wise. I simply can't buy the idea that this situation is not money related.

Lastly, even if the club rather than Theo's people are playing hardball over wages, it will have its reasons for doing so. For me, people beating the club up over Theo's contract situation are doing so as part of the general disenchantment with the perception of us being a selling club interested only in making money. If so, this is less a debate over Theo, and more a wider denate that has been well-worn. But I see nothing wrong with a manager assessing a player's worth and setting a maximum wage limit accordingly. Theo contributes goals and assists, but I can sympathise with a manager looking at his consistency over the past 7 years, and feeling that he does not merit the club's highest pay bracket. I think that its easy to forget that the wages that the petrodallar clubs and Manure are able to pay are simply in a different bracket to what everyone else, Arsenal included, can pay, and its dangerous to judge the club's stance accordingly.

Hey, it took 6 months to thrash out his last deal for some reason. The club is slow to sort these thing because Theo isn't the only example. Also, I'm just picking on the fact that you're saying Theo's people walked out on negotiations and reporting it as fact. If nobody knows the truth of the matter and I've heard contrary reports from another credible journalist, then where has the perception come from about the wages and his representatives stalling? Am I wrong to question the source and then to ask for people to think back to past cases?

[Olivier's xmas twist]

:gp:

Wenger's got it right again. Played him out wide and he scored 2 goals. Definitely his most effective position.

Wenger :bow:

He scored 2 goals vs the mighty coventry, so he must be played upfront tbh :coffee:

[Cripps_orig]

He scored 2 goals vs the mighty coventry, so he must be played upfront tbh :coffee:

Moving the goalposts :bow:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Moving the goalposts :bow:

Not really its the truth, he scored to goals did he not. so he should be played upfront its simple really.

[LDG]

:haha:

[Power n Glory]

:gp:

Wenger's got it right again. Played him out wide and he scored 2 goals. Definitely his most effective position.

Wenger :bow:

I heard Theo had a mixed game but everyone is talking about the two goals he scored and the quality of his finishing. What does that say? in most cases, a proper winger will be a constant thorn in the opposing squads side, but with Theo, he can be hit and miss or anonymous in games, but then pop up with a brilliant goal. As a striker, one that is able to drift, he'd still be able to float around the pitch, drop deep, go wide or play of the shoulder but not have to worry so much about contributing so much to the build up play.

[Cripps_orig]

We could say all of them had a mixed game cos the first half, everyone was shit. Giroud scored the goal but other than that, nothing to talk about positively.

2nd half, they were all excellent bar Girouds missed penalty but other than that, nothing to mention negatively

I like the look of this Gnabry dude. Never heard of him before yesterday but looked impressive

Youth Project :bow:

[bignev]

We could say all of them had a mixed game cos the first half, everyone was shit. Giroud scored the goal but other than that, nothing to talk about positively.



Well Walcott and Arshavin were shit in the first half.

Everyone else played quite well.

[Cripps_orig]

I was at the game tbh

They were all shit including the 2 you mention but im not in the business to critisise players to praise others

[LDG]

I was at the game tbh

They were all shit including the 2 you mention but im not in the business to critisise players to praise others

:haha:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

:haha:

:gp:

[bignev]

I was at the game tbh

They were all shit including the 2 you mention but im not in the business to critisise players to praise others

I was there as well.

It seemed like everyone was playing well until the attack broke down normally with Walcott or Arshavin.

We must have watched different games.

[I_Killed_Kenny]

I was there as well.

It seemed like everyone was playing well until the attack broke down normally with Walcott or Arshavin.

We must have watched different games.

i was there too and i have to agree with ach!

[Power n Glory]

IMO, Walcott should be getting on the end of attacks and finishing off moves. Playing deeper in the final third rather than having the responsibility of bringing the ball forward. He can play his part with one twos and dropping back on occasions but if he had more freedom to move, he'd pull defenders all over the place because he's such a threat. Besides scoring more, I think he'd help open up space for others.

[Syn]

IMO, Walcott should be getting on the end of attacks and finishing off moves. Playing deeper in the final third rather than having the responsibility of bringing the ball forward. He can play his part with one twos and dropping back on occasions but if he had more freedom to move, he'd pull defenders all over the place because he's such a threat. Besides scoring more, I think he'd help open up space for others.

Of course that's right. Nobody disagrees - not even Arsene. Which is why this position talk is weird. Right now everyone is drifting about. If Walcott is in the team, he won't be on the right or up front or restricted in anyway. He'll be able to do what he wants. I'm not a fan of Gerv, but barring the last game, you'd have to say e has started the season alright. So what's the problem that people have, because I'm not seeing it. Everything looks rosy atm while the injuries haven't kicked in.

[Cripps_orig]

I was there as well.

It seemed like everyone was playing well until the attack broke down normally with Walcott or Arshavin.

We must have watched different games.Different definitions of playing well i think.

To me, all that tippy tappy passing shit is not playing well. Its boring and shite. That is what we were doing in the first half

You must like it though. Fair enough

I enjoyed the attack after attack and fast paced moves in the 2nd half.

Whether you did or not, i dont know

[Niall_Quinn]

Not sure about Theo. All I know is there are far too few excuses for his inconsistency floating around here. The "not played in his best position" one is good. Truth is, my best position is president of the USA, but just like Theo the ****s won't play me there. Little wonder I ended up a waster instead. So much lost potential.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

:popcorn:

[Power n Glory]

Of course that's right. Nobody disagrees - not even Arsene. Which is why this position talk is weird. Right now everyone is drifting about. If Walcott is in the team, he won't be on the right or up front or restricted in anyway. He'll be able to do what he wants. I'm not a fan of Gerv, but barring the last game, you'd have to say e has started the season alright. So what's the problem that people have, because I'm not seeing it. Everything looks rosy atm while the injuries haven't kicked in.

Even though our players have a little freedom to drift in, they don't have complete freedom to just drift anywhere because they still have to defend their flank. Our system isn't that fluid…or it wasn't in the past. I suppose we'll have to see how Theo gets on in the new system but if someone like Giroud is starting, he'll always occupy the centre of the pitch and won't be dropping wide and deep.

As for everyone being on the same page…I doubt that. Theo gets compared to Lennon and Bale a lot on here and as wingers, they function in a different way. Plus, Theo himself is saying he wants games up front so he doesn't feel as if he has complete freedom either.

[Niall_Quinn]

Even though our players have a little freedom to drift in, they don't have complete freedom to just drift anywhere because they still have to defend their flank. Our system isn't that fluid…or it wasn't in the past. I suppose we'll have to see how Theo gets on in the new system but if someone like Giroud is starting, he'll always occupy the centre of the pitch and won't be dropping wide and deep.

As for everyone being on the same page…I doubt that. Theo gets compared to Lennon and Bale a lot on here and as wingers, they function in a different way. Plus, Theo himself is saying he wants games up front so he doesn't feel as if he has complete freedom either.

I weep for Theo. What a fucking ordeal every day must be for the poor ****.

[Power n Glory]

:popcorn:

Nothing to see here. That's a failed WUM attempt.

[Niall_Quinn]

Nothing to see here. That's a failed WUM attempt.

There's no WUMming - only realism. This is a guy who hasn't delivered consistently and is full of excuses and complaints rather than determination to be a team player regardless of where he is played. Do I have time for him, am I keen to make excuses for him? No, not really. The **** was saying he wants to be the next Henry. So quitting the moaning, signing his contract and grafting would be step one in that plan I would think. Instead he comes out with his Henry wannabe bullshit and then adds, "I hope it's with Arsenal" Do any of us not know how to translate that?

Here's what I think. If he wants to play for us - great, provided he really does play week in week out. If he doesn't then fuck off. We could sure save a lot of typing if we stopped apologising for the guy though.

[Power n Glory]

There's no WUMming - only realism. This is a guy who hasn't delivered consistently and is full of excuses and complaints rather than determination to be a team player regardless of where he is played. Do I have time for him, am I keen to make excuses for him? No, not really. The **** was saying he wants to be the next Henry. So quitting the moaning, signing his contract and grafting would be step one in that plan I would think. Instead he comes out with his Henry wannabe bullshit and then adds, "I hope it's with Arsenal" Do any of us not know how to translate that?

Here's what I think. If he wants to play for us - great, provided he really does play week in week out. If he doesn't then fuck off. We could sure save a lot of typing if we stopped apologising for the guy though.

Fail...move on.

[GP]

There's no WUMming - only realism. This is a guy who hasn't delivered consistently and is full of excuses and complaints rather than determination to be a team player regardless of where he is played. Do I have time for him, am I keen to make excuses for him? No, not really. The **** was saying he wants to be the next Henry. So quitting the moaning, signing his contract and grafting would be step one in that plan I would think. Instead he comes out with his Henry wannabe bullshit and then adds, "I hope it's with Arsenal" Do any of us not know how to translate that?

Here's what I think. If he wants to play for us - great, provided he really does play week in week out. If he doesn't then fuck off. We could sure save a lot of typing if we stopped apologising for the guy though.

Indeed.

[Niall_Quinn]

Fail...move on.

Which part is the fail? Did I fail to bend over enough for a bloke who lives in an entirely different world to me and doesn't know I'm even alive? Did I fail by considering all the players who just get on with it without the constant aircraft whine each week? Scholes vs Walcott...

1 has delivered his whole career, the other hasn't.

1 knows the meaning of loyalty, the other needs to be paid to get it.

1 is conspicuous by his absence from the newspapers, the other is Theo Walcott.

[Syn]

Even though our players have a little freedom to drift in, they don't have complete freedom to just drift anywhere because they still have to defend their flank. Our system isn't that fluid…or it wasn't in the past. I suppose we'll have to see how Theo gets on in the new system but if someone like Giroud is starting, he'll always occupy the centre of the pitch and won't be dropping wide and deep.

That's definitely true if Giroud is starting. At the moment, he's not, and I hope he doesn't because I think we'd be at our best with this Spanish shit. We actually have the players for it for once unlike the fake Fabregas era.


As for everyone being on the same page…I doubt that. Theo gets compared to Lennon and Bale a lot on here and as wingers, they function in a different way. Plus, Theo himself is saying he wants games up front so he doesn't feel as if he has complete freedom either.

I wouldn't read much into what Theo says (or what Arsene says). They've both got their own agendas. We can only judge on what is happening. It's certainly true that Theo was out wide last season. But this season, without a traditional CF like Van Persie, we're trying to fit in a pacey guy who drifts out wide. Was Theo really 'out wide' yesterday? I haven't seen it but I've read he started wide and was drifting about all over. He got his second goal from the left so that would support that.

This Saturday will tell us a lot IMO. I can't pick between Theo and Gerv. I get frustrated with them both but I accept they bring different qualities to the side. One more costly miss by Gervinho and Theo is in for a good run in the team in a free-ish role.

[Power n Glory]

That's definitely true if Giroud is starting. At the moment, he's not, and I hope he doesn't because I think we'd be at our best with this Spanish shit. We actually have the players for it for once unlike the fake Fabregas era.



I wouldn't read much into what Theo says (or what Arsene says). They've both got their own agendas. We can only judge on what is happening. It's certainly true that Theo was out wide last season. But this season, without a traditional CF like Van Persie, we're trying to fit in a pacey guy who drifts out wide. Was Theo really 'out wide' yesterday? I haven't seen it but I've read he started wide and was drifting about all over. He got his second goal from the left so that would support that.

This Saturday will tell us a lot IMO. I can't pick between Theo and Gerv. I get frustrated with them both but I accept they bring different qualities to the side. One more costly miss by Gervinho and Theo is in for a good run in the team in a free-ish role.


I suppose so, but I assume Theo was more to the right while Giroud was on the pitch. Maybe when he went off there was more freedom for him because he did score after Giroud was subbed off.

[IBK]

There's no WUMming - only realism. This is a guy who hasn't delivered consistently and is full of excuses and complaints rather than determination to be a team player regardless of where he is played. Do I have time for him, am I keen to make excuses for him? No, not really. The **** was saying he wants to be the next Henry. So quitting the moaning, signing his contract and grafting would be step one in that plan I would think. Instead he comes out with his Henry wannabe bullshit and then adds, "I hope it's with Arsenal" Do any of us not know how to translate that?

Here's what I think. If he wants to play for us - great, provided he really does play week in week out. If he doesn't then fuck off. We could sure save a lot of typing if we stopped apologising for the guy though.

This.

[Cripps_orig]

There's no WUMming - only realism. This is a guy who hasn't delivered consistently and is full of excuses and complaints rather than determination to be a team player regardless of where he is played. Do I have time for him, am I keen to make excuses for him? No, not really. The **** was saying he wants to be the next Henry. So quitting the moaning, signing his contract and grafting would be step one in that plan I would think. Instead he comes out with his Henry wannabe bullshit and then adds, "I hope it's with Arsenal" Do any of us not know how to translate that?

Here's what I think. If he wants to play for us - great, provided he really does play week in week out. If he doesn't then fuck off. We could sure save a lot of typing if we stopped apologising for the guy though.
No mention of money? Surprised

[Niall_Quinn]

No mention of money? Surprised

Theo is the money guy.

[Cripps_orig]

Better

Stick to what you know. For ages you have used the money for the WUM you were on which was blown out of the water recently but stick with it

[Niall_Quinn]

Better

Stick to what you know. For ages you have used the money for the WUM you were on which was blown out of the water recently but stick with it

"Money" has been blown out of the water? In what fantasy land? Wasn't the argument it's not 100% about the money? Only 99.9998%

Anyway, it's odd people want to go around sucking Theo's dick while he pisses down their throat? Would have thought RvP was graduation day on these players.

[Letters]

More seriously about last night, I was very impressed with his finishes. Cutting inside, passing it into the net.
Whisper it quietly but it was Henry-like.
Needs to get more consistent but was encouraging.

[Niall_Quinn]

More seriously about last night, I was very impressed with his finishes. Cutting inside, passing it into the net.
Whisper it quietly but it was Henry-like.
Needs to get more consistent but was encouraging.

Whisper it very quietly or the price will go up.

[Cripps_orig]

Anyway, it's odd people want to go around sucking Theo's dick while he pisses down their throat?
Some people are in to that tbh

[Niall_Quinn]

Some people are in to that tbh

Tried it, didn't like it.

[Power n Glory]

Better

Stick to what you know. For ages you have used the money for the WUM you were on which was blown out of the water recently but stick with it

This! :lol:

[Olivier's xmas twist]

:popcorn:

[gooners]

Bah…the point gets lost on you guys. Most managers wouldn't put a gut with low work rate down on the flanks and we could have made better use of the guy in the middle behind the striker over Ramsey last season.

quit wasting time....

...wenger knows; it worked with henry --- so it must work with theo. The fact that theo doesn't like it means he is shit and agitating for a move -- the greedy fuck. Until he moves to utd and starts banging them in, then he is a traitor who did not pay back 'what afc did for him' :rolleyes:

[Kano]

"Money" has been blown out of the water? In what fantasy land? Wasn't the argument it's not 100% about the money? Only 99.9998%

Anyway, it's odd people want to go around sucking Theo's dick while he pisses down their throat? Would have thought RvP was graduation day on these players.
i wouldn't go that far - its just trying to understand the situation.

money has to be the key motivator and i would be amazed if that wasn't the case here. at the same time it makes sense to debate his worth as a striker/winger should he remain at the club. a money grabbing **** or not, he'll still have a job to do here.

[Maestro]

Dear WUMger

Could you kindly start me the following fantasy team this saturday

---------------------Vito----------------------

GHELnkison----BFG------Verm-----GHELibbs

---------------Diaby-------Arteta---------------

---------------------Carzola----------------------

GHELmberlain--------------------- Podolski

--------------------GHELcott----------------------

do it, just for the GHEL of it!

[LDG]

Dear WUMger

Could you kindly start me the following fantasy team this saturday

---------------------Vito----------------------

GHELnkison----BFG------Verm-----GHELibbs

---------------Diaby-------Arteta---------------

---------------------Carzola----------------------

GHELmberlain--------------------- Podolski

--------------------GHELcott----------------------

do it, just for the GHEL of it!

I'd go with that....but your final quip made me feel ill, so I hope you get wumgered.

[Maestro]

:run:

i know, was too late to retract :lol:

[Niall_Quinn]

i wouldn't go that far - its just trying to understand the situation.

money has to be the key motivator and i would be amazed if that wasn't the case here. at the same time it makes sense to debate his worth as a striker/winger should he remain at the club. a money grabbing **** or not, he'll still have a job to do here.

He's off in January, or the summer if the Euro cup-tied thing is a big deal, so anything we try with him now will be a waste and will be at the expense of a player who wants to be here. We've been down the road so many times, that whining sound is always a prelude to an exit. Anyway, Wenger's the manager and if he wants to play the little dick in goal then he doesn't have to answer to the player, he may have to answer to his bosses if the result is bad but even that's doubtful as he makes so much money for them I doubt they'd worry too much if he played Ronald McDonald. In fact they'd probably like that from a commercial perspective.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

He's off in January, or the summer if the Euro cup-tied thing is a big deal, so anything we try with him now will be a waste and will be at the expense of a player who wants to be here. We've been down the road so many times, that whining sound is always a prelude to an exit. Anyway, Wenger's the manager and if he wants to play the little dick in goal then he doesn't have to answer to the player, he may have to answer to his bosses if the result is bad but even that's doubtful as he makes so much money for them I doubt they'd worry too much if he played Ronald McDonald. In fact they'd probably like that from a commercial perspective.

If he keeps scoring like he did yesterday, then he could play in goal for all i care.

[Özim]

Ronald McDonald.
Wenger tried to sign him when he was younger but he couldn't get a work permit. This was at around the same time were were looking for a fox in the box and on our way to being 2% away from domination.

[LDG]

Wenger tried to sign him when he was younger but he couldn't get a work permit. This was at around the same time were were looking for a fox in the box and on our way to being 2% away from domination.

Was that before or after we went unbeaten for a whole season?

[GP]

Was that before or after we went unbeaten for a whole season?

Wenger was on his way to going unbeaten in a season, but then he realised he had no seasoning.

[LDG]

:haha:

[LDG]

“We can be efficient with both styles, I even think we can combine the two which I try to do in some games. It is good, you cannot play a season with one striker.

“We have many strikers. Walcott can play through the middle as well, so we have good options that we will try through the season.



As well.

You.

Know.

Also.

[Özim]

Was that before or after we went unbeaten for a whole season?
I'm not sure but it was before we had great spirit and togetherness and we were COllektivly lacking a little bit of sharpness.

[Syn]

I must tell you, I was worried Arsene was fading away this season after such a strong showing last season, but his form is once again picking up. He can't keep using the 'handbrake' ones but I especially like his new use of the word 'global'; I think that could be a hit.

[LDG]

I'm not sure but it was before we had great spirit and togetherness and we were COllektivly lacking a little bit of sharpness.

At least we're not Manchester Utd, becasue then we'd all be complete ****s.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

I must tell you, I was worried Arsene was fading away this season after such a strong showing last season, but his form is once again picking up. He can't keep using the 'handbrake' ones but I especially like his new use of the word 'global'; I think that could be a hit.

It's time footballistically made little bit comeback.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Quote from Johan Djourou in today's news...thought I'd post it here....seemed to make sense :)

“As a player, I didn’t complain about having to play right-back last season because I am a team player – I would do anything for my team, for my manager and for my club.”

[GP]

Quote from Johan Djourou in today's news...thought I'd post it here....seemed to make sense :)

“As a player, I didn’t complain about having to play right-back last season because I am a team player – I would do anything for my team, for my manager and for my club.”

Which is how it should be, not withstanding the fact that Djourou is shit.

[Bergkampwonderland10]

Slightly harsh, seem to remember him coming back after injury and playing brilliantly at centre back for us a couple of seasons ago, he was a beast then...if he can find that form again...

[Özim]

Sh*t players have to same sh*t like this or they'll never play :lol: It's good to hear he's commited of course, but doesn't change the fact he's not really good enough.

Can't see Walcott staying with us myself, clearly Wenger's not ready to play him up front yet and by January he'll be able to talk to other clubs.

[GP]

Slightly harsh, seem to remember him coming back after injury and playing brilliantly at centre back for us a couple of seasons ago, he was a beast then...if he can find that form again...

He might have put in a couple of decent performances years ago.

But for now, he's shit.

[Power n Glory]

Quote from Johan Djourou in today's news...thought I'd post it here....seemed to make sense :)

“As a player, I didn’t complain about having to play right-back last season because I am a team player – I would do anything for my team, for my manager and for my club.”


Being asked to play right back for a few games is different from doing it for 6 years. You go back three years or so, you'll find interviews of Theo saying he'll play anywhere for Arsenal but with all the criticism despite his improvement and fans getting on his back, you can understand why he wants to play where he's more comfortable.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Djourou even puts mango butter on himself for the team.

[Syn]

Which is how it should be, not withstanding the fact that Djourou is shit.

He's maddeningly inconsistent but I remember a time when he was good. Technically (or in terms of reading the game) he's fine but he panics when things are going wrong and goes into melt-down mode.

I really like look of miquel as 4th choice. He seems to know what he's doing. If the Spanish defenders seem to know the score.

[gooners]

Quote from Johan Djourou in today's news...thought I'd post it here....seemed to make sense :)

“As a player, I didn’t complain about having to play right-back last season because I am a team player – I would do anything for my team, for my manager and for my club.”

chamakh is also happy to collect 60k a week and not even make the bench --- you know, 'for the team' :haha:

now, that's commitment!

[Niall_Quinn]

chamakh is also happy to collect 60k a week and not even make the bench --- you know, 'for the team' :haha:

now, that's commitment!

He's our chicken in the box, KFC, Colonel Chakma

[Penguin]

Being asked to play right back for a few games is different from doing it for 6 years. You go back three years or so, you'll find interviews of Theo saying he'll play anywhere for Arsenal but with all the criticism despite his improvement and fans getting on his back, you can understand why he wants to play where he's more comfortable.

Good luck to any mid table team that wants to put him upfront. He wont be doing anything special there for any decent side, that's for sure.

[Ollie the Optimist]

after today theo can fuck off. ach stated that he has raped cole time and time again yet today he didnt because he put fuck all effort in today. i dont think i even heard name bar when the commentator said he was coming on. yes he scored against coventry and a +1 agaisnt southampton but his showing today was so annoymous we played with 10 men.

get rid of the spineless useless tosser

[Cripps_orig]

after today theo can fuck off. ach stated that he has raped cole time and time again yet today he didnt because he put fuck all effort in today. i dont think i even heard name bar when the commentator said he was coming on. yes he scored against coventry and a +1 agaisnt southampton but his showing today was so annoymous we played with 10 men.

get rid of the spineless useless tosser

He didnt cos he didnt start :good:

And when he came on, Chelsea were dominating and we hardly had the ball

But lets blame Theo for that :doh:

[Niall_Quinn]

Walcott showed his true colours today and he also showed why he'll never be more than the hype. He doesn't even ave enough pride to play for himself. Hope that was his last game, although it wouldn't at all surprise me if he ends up captain. Dreadful person.

[Niall_Quinn]

He didnt cos he didnt start :good:

And when he came on, Chelsea were dominating and we hardly had the ball

But lets blame Theo for that :doh:

You only defend the **** to wind people up. But seriously, we ant have ****s like him in the team.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Give the lad a few more chances but tbh, he seems like he wants to go.

[Joker]

Really harsh to blame Theo, he came on with Chelsea dominating and there was hardly any opportunity for him to run at the fullback. For that to happen, we would have needed to get the ball out to him, but Cazorla, AOC and Arteta were all poor today. If we want to ask questions of any players, we should be pointing the finger at the players who started the game.

[Ollie the Optimist]

Really harsh to blame Theo, he came on with Chelsea dominating and there was hardly any opportunity for him to run at the fullback. For that to happen, we would have needed to get the ball out to him, but Cazorla, AOC and Arteta were all poor today. If we want to ask questions of any players, we should be pointing the finger at the players who started the game.


yes however if you make demands about playing, you should give you best to change games etc. he never made himself avalible, he wasnt mentioned. so much so that people forgot he was on the pitch. i dont care if he didnt start, giroud didnt but he still made himself avalible and although was shit, still worked hard. theo was annoymous, we cant have that. sell the usless spineless dick

[Dennis Bendtner]

You're going out of your way to target Walcott to make some sort of point.

[Cripps_orig]

Really harsh to blame Theo, he came on with Chelsea dominating and there was hardly any opportunity for him to run at the fullback. For that to happen, we would have needed to get the ball out to him, but Cazorla, AOC and Arteta were all poor today. If we want to ask questions of any players, we should be pointing the finger at the players who started the game.

Pretty much

Usual crap from the Theo haters who have no clue and are just WUMming

[GP]

after today theo can fuck off. ach stated that he has raped cole time and time again yet today he didnt because he put fuck all effort in today. i dont think i even heard name bar when the commentator said he was coming on. yes he scored against coventry and a +1 agaisnt southampton but his showing today was so annoymous we played with 10 men.

get rid of the spineless useless tosser


Did he even get a touch of the ball?

Totally worthless today.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Really harsh to blame Theo, he came on with Chelsea dominating and there was hardly any opportunity for him to run at the fullback. For that to happen, we would have needed to get the ball out to him, but Cazorla, AOC and Arteta were all poor today. If we want to ask questions of any players, we should be pointing the finger at the players who started the game.

People are not questioning why he did not score goals, but his body language and his attiude. Even if they were dominating, he could have at least made a few runs etc. Your right its harsh to blame him, but i don't think he did himselves any favours.

[Marc Overmars]

This situation needs to be sorted out fast because it's getting dangerous now.

His performance level has dropped and won't improve until there is clarification on his future.

We can't carry passengers.

[gooners]

if giroud and chamakh can call themselves strikers, i think theo can --- i see his point. Fair enough if it is the likes of RVP keeping him from playing there, but that's not even the case. He's going to utd in Jan.

[Ollie the Optimist]

This situation needs to be sorted out fast because it's getting dangerous now.

His performance level has dropped and won't improve until there is clarification on his future.

We can't carry passengers.

he is making demands but doing nothing to back them up. he needs to up his game or wenger will jsut drop him. games like today wehere he was completely annoymous arent going to help anyone

[Cripps_orig]

Would help if he actually played

Scored 3 goals this season.

Only Gervinho has scored more and hes played much more

[Ollie the Optimist]

Would help if he actually played

Scored 3 goals this season.

Only Gervinho has scored more and hes played much more

scored three goals when we have been have been wining games and they were +1s. hardly great is it. but thats ok, if he scores +1s but is annoymous in big games then its ok.

[Joker]

May as well try him upfront. Gervinho's erratic, Giroud's hopelessly out of form, Chamakh's obviously not an option and Podolski doesn't seem to be seen as a centre forward by Wenger.

[Cripps_orig]

scored three goals when we have been have been wining games and they were +1s. hardly great is it. but thats ok, if he scores +1s but is annoymous in big games then its ok.

Hes hardly played in the big games this season

[Ollie the Optimist]

Hes hardly played in the big games this season

so thats a defence is it? he played today and was so annoymous no one can remember anything he did on the pitch or even if he actually played but because he claims to be a striker and scored a +1 against southampton its all ok.

[Olivier's xmas twist]

Hes hardly played in the big games this season

And i doubt he will till he signs that deal.