Match reaction vs Pool

[KSE Comedy Club]

Well, that was shite.

In some ways it was probably better to get the beating out of the way at the start of the tough fixtures.

We can only get better from now on..........surely?

[Maestro]

woosah

okay anger gone, it's all quite funny now.

...but wenger out, bhai

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Close game.

[Özim]

5-1 Unlucky.

+'s

Biter did not score

GP in Sochi

We're partly MOTM

We scored a goal

We lost 5-1 so should have pride for Wednesday's match

[Shaqiri Is Boss]

I said I'd never seen a half hour like the one you gave us in the CL2008. I think I have now.

Did not see that coming.

You looked better as the game went on and we went into our usual reverse gear, but by that time the game was gone.

[Xhaka Can’t]

On the plus side, Liverpool's odds for the title have halved so a lot of dippers will be losing their giros today.

[cheesy bites]

Wow, scoring five away at Anfield is incredible. Shame we gave up the clean sheet with that stupid penalty at the end.

Wait, what...

[selassie]

Oh well, United up next.

[Özim]

Biggest game of the season next Sunday now, league won't happen, neither will the CL.

FA Cup is our best chance, with 4th place secured we should rest players for next Sunday's match.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Well we were twatted completely.


We need a response on Wednesday.

[RomfordPele]

Err, still top of the league.

[Maestro]

Well we were twatted completely.


We need a response on Wednesday.

sshhhh, fakeyank might still be in the country

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Err, still top of the league.

Mindless optimism thread is below.

[KSE Comedy Club]

Err, still top of the league.
Indeed.

For a couple more hours at least

[Globalgunner]

Can someone please call Ollie up. I need to find the bright side of this result. Hard as I've looked I haven't seen it

[Munchies]

Can someone please call Ollie up. I need to find the bright side of this result. Hard as I've looked I haven't seen it

:lol:

[Xhaka Can’t]

http://31.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m9v1qk38kY1qfjwbjo1_500.gif

[Marc Overmars]

Conceded early, game plan went out the window and we had no response. This usually happens when we concede the first goal, we're not a side who can swamp the opposition and create a bunch of chances to haul ourselves back into a match. They're built to contain and be efficient with their attacking.

We always start matches on auto-pilot. The only difference this time is that we were facing a side good enough to take advantage of that.

Bitterly disappointing and quite easy to see why we're seen as a third wheel in this title race.

Big win needed on Wednesday now.

[Xhaka Can’t]

http://i.imgur.com/qISfnBR.gif

[Niall_Quinn]

Didn't turn up. Liverpool did. At this level you'll get a pasting under those circumstances.

Tactics bad - unforgivable. Team selection bad - limited options, just about forgivable. Failure to adjust was bad too but then again at 4-0 down at HT you'd really need Ronaldo and Messi coming off the bench.

First goal was offside and an absolute fluke. Then a set piece and pretty much game over. Bad reaction though, nobody stepped up except Jack in bursts.

Media clueless again of course, now wondering why Liverpool can't win title. That's how ridiculous they are. If we beat Utd then they'll be wondering why we can't win it. If the tea lady does something clever she'll be favourite.

Michael Owen - what can be said about this guy. WHY????????

[Özim]

Let it begin!

http://img.thesun.co.uk/aidemitlum/archive/00107/SNF2312G_107674a.jpg

[Niall_Quinn]

http://i.imgur.com/qISfnBR.gif

He looks very gay in that clip.

[milla]

Conceded early, game plan went out the window and we had no response. This usually happens when we concede the first goal, we're not a side who can swamp the opposition and create a bunch of chances to haul ourselves back into a match. They're built to contain and be efficient with their attacking.

We always start matches on auto-pilot. The only difference this time is that we were facing a side good enough to take advantage of that.

Bitterly disappointing and quite easy to see why we're seen as a third wheel in this title race.

Big win needed on Wednesday now.

Game plan? We have no game plan, it is the usual stuff. We have been playing really bad for a good 2 months now and we wont get away with it this time. Come Wed, draw would be our best hope against Manu. :coffee:

[Niall_Quinn]

Let it begin!

http://img.thesun.co.uk/aidemitlum/archive/00107/SNF2312G_107674a.jpg

Yes indeed, because this is what you're here for.

[Özim]

nobody stepped up except Jack in bursts.

Nah he was sh*t, noone turned up, he doesn't get special dispensation cos you love him.

[Özim]

Game plan? We have no game plan, it is the usual stuff. We have been playing really bad for a good 2 months now and we wont get away with it this time. Come Wed, draw would be our best hope against Manu. :coffee:

Wenger's game plan and pre match talk:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaHXk2Kyi0w

[Master Splinter]

As I said in the other thread, it was a bit like the match against AC Milan a few years ago. Absolutely everything went wrong and we could do nothing right. A nothing performance at the wrong time. It's not as if Liverpool are a bogey team for us like Chelsea or United either. Just a horrible day at the office.

This result can be rendered irrelevant if we can forget it and win the next match as we have after other bad results this season. If a match against United doesn't focus the team, then maybe we haven't progressed that much after all.

WUMger :doh:. For not picking Gibbs and Rosicky.

WUMger :doh:. For not making changes instantly.

WUMger :doh:. For ruining the Mertscielny record and not preserving it by substituting one of them.

Arsenal :doh:. Sort your lives out for the next game.

Sczesny :bow:. Another excellent performance amid disaster.

[Munchies]

Conceded early, game plan went out the window and we had no response. This usually happens when we concede the first goal, we're not a side who can swamp the opposition and create a bunch of chances to haul ourselves back into a match. They're built to contain and be efficient with their attacking.

We always start matches on auto-pilot. The only difference this time is that we were facing a side good enough to take advantage of that.

Bitterly disappointing and quite easy to see why we're seen as a third wheel in this title race.

Big win needed on Wednesday now.

Been 3 years since we last beat United.

Whenever we feel like we can do them, they get a win.

Not expecting to win tbh

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Wenget is getting too far away from playing what has been our best team in the season, some of that can't be helped but not playing Rosicky after the game against Liverpool at the Emirates - daft.

I don't get why he has decided not to play Gibbs after so long of playing him whenever he has been fit. :wacko:

All in all: Fuck football.

[selassie]

Game plan? We have no game plan, it is the usual stuff. We have been playing really bad for a good 2 months now and we wont get away with it this time. Come Wed, draw would be our best hope against Manu. :coffee:

Yeah pretty much this. We were awful at Southampton too but got away with it to a degree. I don't even know what to say to be honest, I have zero faith in this team in the BIG games.

[Özim]

Been 3 years since we last beat United.

Whenever we feel like we can do them, they get a win.

Not expecting to win tbh

They were terrible earlier in the season getting beaten by all and sundry and we still managed to lose to them.

[BOBN]

Ozil is a complete waste of money. No mitigation, no excuses.

Weve found our Torres.

[Niall_Quinn]

WUMger - in summary.

Team shit.

Fans great.

[Marc Overmars]

Game plan? We have no game plan, it is the usual stuff. We have been playing really bad for a good 2 months now and we wont get away with it this time. Come Wed, draw would be our best hope against Manu. :coffee:

Well yeah, game plan is a term I'd use loosely when it comes to Arsenal. Whatever it was we set out to do, it didn't work. When that happens we generally offer nothing in response because they can't throw caution to the wind and chase a game.

It doesn't matter how much we're losing by, they will still play like it's 0-0.

[Xhaka Can’t]

WUMger - in summary.

Team shit.

Fans great.

Pretty much. Glad he acknowledged the fans who were superb throughout - and they'll be behind the team next time out.

[Özim]

WUMger - in summary.

Team shit.

Fans great.

What about the muppets?

[Niall_Quinn]

What about the muppets?

He didn't mention you at all.

[Özim]

He didn't mention you at all.

He doesn't like winners these days.

[GP]

Really missed Kallstrom today.

[Niall_Quinn]

Fever Pitch - Tomorrow 10pm BT Sports 2

This ad was endorsed by Niall Quinn

[RomfordPele]

Yeah pretty much this. We were awful at Southampton too but got away with it to a degree. I don't even know what to say to be honest, I have zero faith in this team in the BIG games.

This is the point. We are badly out of form, hamstrung by injuries and led by a manager whose response is to sign a player with a broken back.

United are all over the shop, but they will fancy three points on Wednesday.

[Niall_Quinn]

This is the point. We are badly out of form, hamstrung by injuries and led by a manager whose response is to sign a player with a broken back.

United are all over the shop, but they will fancy three points on Wednesday.

They may fancy 3 points but, dammnit, they aren't getting them. Ve Vill win the BPL!

[The Emirates Gallactico]

What has Wenger said?

[Özim]

This is the point. We are badly out of form, hamstrung by injuries and led by a manager whose response is to sign a player with a broken back.

United are all over the shop, but they will fancy three points on Wednesday.

Yeah but it's Harrods. We're all over the shop in pound land.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

What has Wenger said?

Whoops.

[Xhaka Can’t]

What has Wenger said?

Shit performance.

Great fans.

Need to get our shit together for United.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Whoops.

Well hopefully the delay means he's really have a proper talking to the team.


Anyway it means I'm going to have to avoid RAWK for a month now. :(

[Power n Glory]

That stung! We didn't turn up and there was no fight in us. Why are we always in the end if these sort of beatings and shock results? We'll be out of all comps in a week or two if not careful. Depressing to watch and I just decided to fork out for BT Sports! I feel sorry for anyone else that sat in the stadium to watch that. There was no attempt at a fight back! Shocking!

[Niall_Quinn]

What has Wenger said?

He raised some good points.


We played with little bit arse raped on. You can see our match against Napoli is a big tiredness, the fixtures of course go against us but we must accept this and try to do what we can.

[ENSKIED]

On the plus side, Liverpool's odds for the title have halved so a lot of dippers will be losing their giros today.

I suspect there has to be logic in that somewhere, other than you failing [like Arsenal] at being a smart arse, using "Giros" [wot are they no wot a meen] and "dippers" when all else fails get out the insults to paper over a sound fucking thrashing . . . . . init no wot a meen blud?

[Niall_Quinn]

I just decided to fork out for BT Sports!

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Who is your ISP?

BT Infinity is the best service in the business, miles ahead of anything else. Switch ISP and you get BT Sports for free.

[Niall_Quinn]

I suspect there has to be logic in that somewhere, other than you failing [like Arsenal] at being a smart arse, using "Giros" [wot are they no wot a meen] and "dippers" when all else fails get out the insults to paper over a sound fucking thrashing . . . . . init no wot a meen blud?

Yeaaaaaaaaaah!

Get with the territory before you start laying down the law. Mostly everything here has the opposite meaning.

[Xhaka Can’t]

I suspect there has to be logic in that somewhere, other than you failing [like Arsenal] at being a smart arse, using "Giros" [wot are they no wot a meen] and "dippers" when all else fails get out the insults to paper over a sound fucking thrashing . . . . . init no wot a meen blud?

I was feeling suicidal until I read this.

It aint every day you get tonked 5-1 and still manage to touch a nerve.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Who is your ISP?

BT Infinity is the best service in the business, miles ahead of anything else. Switch ISP and you get BT Sports for free.

Paying to keep Owen in a job is disgraceful.

[Power n Glory]

I'm with Sky. I can't be bothered to switch. No problems with their internet. It's not worth the hassle. Fuck Arsenal!

[Niall_Quinn]

Paying to keep Owen in a job is disgraceful.

And I thought I couldn't feel any worse today.

I mean thanks, really!

[Marc Overmars]

On the plus side, this was the early kick off so now I can ignore all football this weekend and enjoy getting drunk tonight even more.

[Niall_Quinn]

On the plus side, this was the early kick off so now I can ignore all football this weekend and enjoy getting drunk tonight even more.

I was slamming whiskey after 10 mins into the match. Pissed as a newt now, which is odd because newts don't drink.

[Xhaka Can’t]

I'm with Sky. I can't be bothered to switch. No problems with their internet. It's not worth the hassle. Fuck Arsenal!

Did you manage to get a deal?

If I were in your position, I wouldn't bother going full price with BT until they had the CL matches.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

And I thought I couldn't feel any worse today.

I mean thanks, really!

You needed to be told tbf.

[Niall_Quinn]

I think this is right. In response to that result the only answer is to have a discussion about ISPs.

[saintnickle]

Wenger really looked pissed off in his interview Mind you so would i if it hampered me getting my million pound a year payrise.The february capitulation is upon us again.

[Power n Glory]

Did you manage to get a deal?

If I were in your position, I wouldn't bother going full price with BT until they had the CL matches.

No deal just desperation to see the big games. I'll live but feels like I've just bought a ticket for the titanic.

It might be time to rekindle my love for Basketball and UFC!

[ENSKIED]

I was feeling suicidal until I read this.

It aint every day you get tonked 5-1 and still manage to touch a nerve.

Suicidal hey? Well Stevie then perhaps you didn't waste your time after all with your post, which of course on the face of it was a waste of the English language, and there is meaning in the Universe [and Arsenal getting thrashed 5-1]. Might I also add I'm glad I had a big hand in your continued existence because after all I'll bet you're a really nice man and just very disappointed.

[Niall_Quinn]

I'll live but feels like I've just bought a ticket for the titanic.

Ridiculous exaggeration. The Titanic stayed up for hours, we're going down by 5pm.

[Xhaka Can’t]

I think this is right. In response to that result the only answer is to have a discussion about ISPs.

All I've got left in the liquor cabinet is gin. It aint that bad.

Yet.

[Niall_Quinn]

Suicidal hey? Well Stevie then perhaps you didn't waste your time after all with your post, which of course on the face of it was a waste of the English language, and there is meaning in the Universe [and Arsenal getting thrashed 5-1]. Might I also add I'm glad I had a big hand in your continued existence because after all I'll bet you're a really nice man and just very disappointed.

Hey, cunt, fuck off already!

[Xhaka Can’t]

No deal just desperation to see the big games. I'll live but feels like I've just bought a ticket for the titanic.

It might be time to rekindle my love for Basketball and UFC!

I'm watching basketball now - too shellshocked to change the channel. :lol:

[Xhaka Can’t]

Suicidal hey? Well Stevie then perhaps you didn't waste your time after all with your post, which of course on the face of it was a waste of the English language, and there is meaning in the Universe [and Arsenal getting thrashed 5-1]. Might I also add I'm glad I had a big hand in your continued existence because after all I'll bet you're a really nice man and just very disappointed.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPIsTKpAoE4

[Niall_Quinn]

I'm watching basketball now - too shellshocked to change the channel. :lol:

New marketing angle for basketball.

[Darknight02]

Match reaction - uh there's nothing to say other than that was a pile of poo.

Manager to blame for not strengthening true. But would Draxler have been ready to start? I think not. Regardless even if he had done so it would have been no difference.

The midfield and defence were terrible today and the players really have I stand up and take some fcukin responsibility. Today was a game where I felt embarrassed about this side for the first time this season.

Man city wasn't a defeat I was too upset about given how we played.

Today we had no excuse and nothing to say other than the players really let down their manager. No fatigue and nothing more than that.

Only consolation would be if Chelsea drop points and City do.

Chelsea are worrying especially as we know Mourinho has rediscovered that defensive solidity.

This season has been built on a bedrock of a defence with every player fighting for each other not to concede.

This team is poor attacking wise. No mistake. We only win but the odd goal because of that.

It's no point getting on the players and managers back now. By all means getting pissed off and upset over the next few days.

But come Wednesday get behind this fcuking team as there are 13 games to go and we need to win all.

Man City and Chelsea have to come here as well let's not forget and they will have a tough game.

It's good this happened - I have to take some positive - as it showed how far we are away from being a rock solid team.

Biggest thing this season is the way this team have responded to previous defeats and it's time to show that again.

[Niall_Quinn]

All I've got left in the liquor cabinet is gin. It aint that bad.

Yet.

Gin is the best reserve for whisky. Just pour double the usual and it works.

[Xhaka Can’t]

New marketing angle for basketball.

Indiana are 23 and 2 at home but are 30-27 down against the Trail Blazers.

[Power n Glory]

Ridiculous exaggeration. The Titanic stayed up for hours, we're going down by 5pm.

:haha:

[Niall_Quinn]

Indiana are 23 and 2 at home but are 30-27 down against the Trail Blazers.

Yeah, I didn't need to know the details. I have my own misery program mapped out.

[KSE Comedy Club]

I've just got a nice deal from sky to upgrade to their fibre broadband.

Which incidentally, uses the BT fibre network :good:

Oh was there a football discussion goin on?

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bf9nmz0CQAAM5ho.jpg

[Niall_Quinn]

I've just got a nice deal from sky to upgrade to their fibre broadband.

Which incidentally, uses the BT fibre network :good:

Oh was there a football discussion goin on?

No, this is the ISP thread you're fine.

And you are fucking lucky. Because they also use the Virgin infrastructure and that's a little bit...

:haha:

And a little bit...

:haha:

[KSE Comedy Club]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bf9nmz0CQAAM5ho.jpg

:bow:

Shit result but sir Ches is a becoming an Arsenal great

[JonasTC]

What a shit show. Can we give Walcott and Ramsey the same drugs they're using at Barca and Madrid? We need them badly, they're seriously the only "x-factor" we have this season, when it comes to scoring, because Giroud can only do tap-ins and flicks, and Özil is the assist king, but if he have no one to assist too, he's not really worth much sadly.

I still love you Arsenal :bow:

[KSE Comedy Club]

No, this is the ISP thread you're fine.

And you are fucking lucky. Because they also use the Virgin infrastructure and that's a little bit...

:haha:

And a little bit...

:haha:
Oh that's ok then :lol:

Yeh, I used to be on virgins 120mb service. Download was ok but upload was shite, gaming was fucking awful!!

But I've checked to make sure that it's on the BT network. I was with sky anyway on adsl, so it made sense to upgrade with them. Less hassle.

Should be a much better service I hope!

[Niall_Quinn]

Ches did what he could today but he was so fucking exposed. I always wondered why we thought it was a good strategy for our full back to allow those initial yards to the opposition widemen. Fine when it's Downing, not so good when it's Sterling and Sturridge. Sagna and particularly Monreal were all over the place today and constantly left Merts and Kos having to make decisions about who they should cover. Bad shit on the training ground, is it Wenger or Bould who gets a slap for that? Bould gets the credit for the improved defence, isn't it right he takes the flak too?

[Xhaka Can’t]

Oh that's ok then :lol:

Yeh, I used to be on virgins 120mb service. Download was ok but upload was shite, gaming was fucking awful!!

But I've checked to make sure that it's on the BT network. I was with sky anyway on adsl, so it made sense to upgrade with them. Less hassle.

Should be a much better service I hope!

A bit like our football.

We downloaded goals no problem, but our upload was non existant until we got a bit of tech support.

[KSE Comedy Club]

Ches did what he could today but he was so fucking exposed. I always wondered why we thought it was a good strategy for our full back to allow those initial yards to the opposition widemen. Fine when it's Downing, not so good when it's Sterling and Sturridge. Sagna and particularly Monreal were all over the place today and constantly left Merts and Kos having to make decisions about who they should cover. Bad shit on the training ground, is it Wenger or Bould who gets a slap for that? Bould gets the credit for the improved defence, isn't it right he takes the flak too?
Well yes, but then it would depend if wenger overrided him for today's match.

We will never know so he has to take the blame too

[KSE Comedy Club]

A bit like our football.

We downloaded goals no problem, but our upload was non existant until we got a bit of tech support.

:haha:

[milla]

I've just got a nice deal from sky to upgrade to their fibre broadband.

Which incidentally, uses the BT fibre network :good:

Oh was there a football discussion goin on?


I paid £2.50 a month for Plusnet broadband and get to watch HD football free on AceStream, good deal for football IMO. :coffee:

[Power n Glory]

Oh that's ok then :lol:

Yeh, I used to be on virgins 120mb service. Download was ok but upload was shite, gaming was fucking awful!!

But I've checked to make sure that it's on the BT network. I was with sky anyway on adsl, so it made sense to upgrade with them. Less hassle.

Should be a much better service I hope!

Virgin are terrible. Had a the TV and broadband service. The internet was slow and would always go down plus the customer service was shocking. Been on Sky ever since and I have no problems with their broadband.

[Power n Glory]

Well yes, but then it would depend if wenger overrided him for today's match.

We will never know so he has to take the blame too

It has to be bad preparation for the game because they failed to turn up. I can't blame selection because it's not as if we put out a team that could have been stomped that badly. Hard to explain but we've been stomped badly like that under various Wenger squads and I think it's a lot to do with how he mentally prepares the squad. They crumble all the time. Bad results happen but you'd be hard pressed to see another top team with such records. The one off is fine but not so long ago we got beaten badly by Manure. It's no coincidence.

[Munchies]

http://i.imgur.com/zoiqntr.jpg

[milla]

:haha:

Worst £40mil ever spent in football. :coffee:

[Munchies]

@_OlivierGiroud_

Was a really poor performance today from me!

--
Good now fuck off :coffee:


https://twitter.com/_OlivierGiroud_




Just kidding :mwah:

[LDG]

Shopping with the missus in IKEA was a pleasurable experience, one would guess.

At one point, in Mothercare, I tuned into the match thread and quickly tuned out again. The looks the mums and kids gave me when I exclaimed "useless bunch of fucking cunts" was perhaps the highlight.

[Xhaka Can’t]

Shopping with the missus in IKEA was a pleasurable experience, one would guess.

At one point, in Mothercare, I tuned into the match thread and quickly tuned out again. The looks the mums and kids gave me when I exclaimed "useless bunch of fucking cunts" was perhaps the highlight.

Arsenal were useless as well.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

:haha:

Worst £40mil ever spent in football. :coffee:

http://i62.tinypic.com/2repog3.png

[Power n Glory]

http://i.imgur.com/zoiqntr.jpg

Where's our £42.5m, more like!

It's unacceptable and he's damaging his rep. Even the commentator had to admit he's playing nowhere near the level he played at Madrid where he'd influence almost every game. He's coasting over here and has hardly stepped out of 1st gear.

[JonasTC]

Where's our £42.5m, more like!

It's unacceptable and he's damaging his rep. Even the commentator had to admit he's playing nowhere near the level he played at Madrid where he'd influence almost every game. He's coasting over here and has hardly stepped out of 1st gear.

The commentators were also talking about Sturridge being one of the best strikers in the world....

The problem with Özil is that he has no one to pass to. Giroud is just immobile infront of a defender, crying about being pushed/pulled/whatever, Cazorla runs around behind him and whoever is playing right wing when Walcott is injuried, usually runs inside aswell, so his options are playing it backwards or wide to our fullbacks. Every single time he's on the ball and someone actually makes a run, he makes a perfect pass. In Madrid he had 3-4 players constantly running behind defence, so there was always something to do. That said, i still think he make silly mistakes at times and he needs to raise his "bottom level" (dno how to say it in english). But his numbers are still pretty decent (27 games 5 goals 12 assists) and its his first season, so i wouldnt be whining about him yet :)

[topgun]

Whoops.

I did it again.

[Power n Glory]

The commentators were also talking about Sturridge being one of the best strikers in the world....

The problem with Özil is that he has no one to pass to. Giroud is just immobile infront of a defender, crying about being pushed/pulled/whatever, Cazorla runs around behind him and whoever is playing right wing when Walcott is injuried, usually runs inside aswell, so his options are playing it backwards or wide to our fullbacks. Every single time he's on the ball and someone actually makes a run, he makes a perfect pass. In Madrid he had 3-4 players constantly running behind defence, so there was always something to do. That said, i still think he make silly mistakes at times and he needs to raise his "bottom level" (dno how to say it in english). But his numbers are still pretty decent (27 games 5 goals 12 assists) and its his first season, so i wouldnt be whining about him yet :)

Strurridge is a man in form and he's getting goals. Certainly one to worry about in the Prem at the moment.

As for Ozil, no real time to argue his case because it's not worth it. If he's not bothered than neither am I. He has to show up.

[Letters]

:lol: Thankfully I missed it. Usually avoid MoTD when we lose but I'll have to watch later for the lolz.
We've not been playing well for a while but we've been getting away with it. Not today.
It's all about how we react now. This side have reacted well to previous setbacks, if we can do the same on Wednesday then we'll be back on track.

[Niall_Quinn]

:haha:

Worst £40mil ever spent in football. :coffee:

:haha:

This is what every opposition supporter has been praying to hear.

And we're helping them :haha:

It's so fucking funny.

[milla]

The commentators were also talking about Sturridge being one of the best strikers in the world....

The problem with Özil is that he has no one to pass to. Giroud is just immobile infront of a defender, crying about being pushed/pulled/whatever, Cazorla runs around behind him and whoever is playing right wing when Walcott is injuried, usually runs inside aswell, so his options are playing it backwards or wide to our fullbacks. Every single time he's on the ball and someone actually makes a run, he makes a perfect pass. In Madrid he had 3-4 players constantly running behind defence, so there was always something to do. That said, i still think he make silly mistakes at times and he needs to raise his "bottom level" (dno how to say it in english). But his numbers are still pretty decent (27 games 5 goals 12 assists) and its his first season, so i wouldnt be whining about him yet :)

Wenger's fault, doesn't take away the fact Ozil goes missing way too much.

[Niall_Quinn]

Shopping with the missus in IKEA was a pleasurable experience, one would guess.

At one point, in Mothercare, I tuned into the match thread and quickly tuned out again. The looks the mums and kids gave me when I exclaimed "useless bunch of fucking cunts" was perhaps the highlight.

Not an ideal slogan to go with in MotherCare.

But true nonetheless. And Arsenal were shit too.

[Munchies]

Shopping with the missus in IKEA was a pleasurable experience, one would guess.

At one point, in Mothercare, I tuned into the match thread and quickly tuned out again. The looks the mums and kids gave me when I exclaimed "useless bunch of fucking cunts" was perhaps the highlight.

:haha:

[Power n Glory]

:haha:

This is what every opposition supporter has been praying to hear.

And we're helping them :haha:

It's so fucking funny.

I think he needs to be dropped to the bench for a game or two and checked.

http://metro.co.uk/2014/02/08/chelsea-player-mocks-arsenals-mesut-ozil-after-lazy-performance-at-liverpool-4295836/

The ridicule will soon reach the press and he'll have no where to hide. It's up to him to silence the critics with his football. Look how Suarez has completely silenced the critics with his performances despite the controversy.

If you look at the 4th goal, you have to wonder why Ozil didn't attempt to charge down the wing where the space was open to maybe attempt a cross or hold it up until more support came. Instead, he decided to pass it to Wilshere who was having a poor game as well and half asleep. It's the same problem I had with Nasri and Hleb. Stop being a pussy and lead this team. He has the ability to dribble and drive at defenders. All this talk of needing runners off the ball....bollocks. If he'd play with more urgency and drive, a lot more would happen.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fe5SLROU0Aw

Where the fuck is this sort of play? He's attempting to pass the ball at every opportunity. A touch or two then he's going for the easy option as seen just before the 4th goal.

[BOBN]

The commentators were also talking about Sturridge being one of the best strikers in the world....
I have no problem with this opinion.

Everybody with a clue about youth football knew Sturridge had special special talent and an England cert since he was 15/16. The fact that Wenger let him go to Chelsea and then Liverpool for peanuts is unforgivable.

[Munchies]

I think he needs to be dropped to the bench for a game or two and checked.

http://metro.co.uk/2014/02/08/chelsea-player-mocks-arsenals-mesut-ozil-after-lazy-performance-at-liverpool-4295836/

The ridicule will soon reach the press and he'll have no where to hide. It's up to him to silence the critics with his football. Look how Suarez has completely silenced the critics with his performances despite the controversy.

If you look at the 4th goal, you have to wonder why Ozil didn't attempt to charge down the wing where the space was open to maybe attempt a cross or hold it up until more support came. Instead, he decided to pass it to Wilshere who was having a poor game as well and half asleep. It's the same problem I had with Nasri and Hleb. Stop being a pussy and lead this team. He has the ability to dribble and drive at defenders. All this talk of needing runners off the ball....bollocks. If he'd play with more urgency and drive, a lot more would happen.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fe5SLROU0Aw

Where the fuck is this sort of play? He's attempting to pass the ball at every opportunity. A touch or two then he's going for the easy option as seen just before the 4th goal.

Great post.

#PerezWozRite

[selassie]

http://i.imgur.com/zoiqntr.jpg

:yikes:

Yeah he was anonymous again today, mind you so were most of the team.

I am putting his lacklustre performances down to tiredness and him still adjusting to this league.

We all know the talent is there, he has world class talent.

[Munchies]

:yikes:

Yeah he was anonymous again today, mind you so were most of the team.

I am putting his lacklustre performances down to tiredness and him still adjusting to this league.

We all know the talent is there, he has world class talent.

Tiredness ? He had a week rest !

[Power n Glory]

I wouldn't blame Wenger if he dropped Ozil to the bench for the next game. Rosicky is a passer through and through but you see his influence all over the pitch. He doesn't need runners off the ball to play a quick progressive pass. He'll play the ball into space and with zip so the runner knows that's where he's supposed to be. He'll make a burst forward into space to let a passer know he wants the ball back for a one two after making a quick pass and turn....he's also solid on defence and we've just seen why Arteta struggles in these sort of games.

Wilshere wasn't sharp either and it was always a risk asking him to start after a lay off. Just ease him back. Ox and Cazorla were terrible as well. There isn't one player that had a good game but Ozil has way too many quiet games and rarely steps up!

[Letters]

Maybe our German players were tired after long days watching this
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-26096186

[fakeyank]

The more I think about the result, the more I think, this was the best thing that couldve happened to our team this season. This is similar to the 8-2 thrashing which was needed for our club to wake up. I just do not understand how we just decide not to turn up for the first half of the games... its criminal! Sometimes good things come out of bad results and I really hope that the boys can pick themselves off... other than Ox and may be Chezza, not one motherfucker can stand up and say they did their best. Absolute cunts!

Having said that, there is NO way I can see Chelsea not winning the title this season. They have played city twice, utd twice and play us, Spuds and Everton at home. Worst result for them at home would be a draw. Their only fixture where I can them losing is to Liverpool but I am sure, the cunt Mou, will nullify the threats Pool pose. Little horse is winning it. Its a battle for 2nd now unfortunately.

[RomfordPele]

I wouldn't blame Wenger if he dropped Ozil to the bench

We all know Ozil will start on Wednesday and so will Jack.

If anyone's going to get dropped it'll be oxlade, arguably our best player for the last two games but I daresay the numbers on Wenger's laptop will tell him to put Flamini in alongside Arteta and move Jack out to the right. Cue disjointed, lacklustre, frustrating first half and the usual "great spirit" in the second when the Great Professor brings on the players he should have started with in the first place.

Really bloody frustrating.

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bf-OTVBIcAAlfcT.jpg

This is doing the rounds now, apparently happened today.

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bf-PqKuIgAA5FYs.jpg

http://imbo01.vg.no/users/bildespesial/images/4f54e00f7d00609ff130f16d8b4d7ed0.jpg?t[]=crop%3Ax%3D0%2Cy%3D0%2Cwidth%3D1200%2Cheight%3D87 1&t[]=maxSize%3Awidth%3D990%2Cheight%3D660&accessToken=0acdfca5125a07f73f6ca774c5d77879a93075 2d91810d1c9f5ab2b69078156a

That warchest got too heavy :shrug:

[RomfordPele]

There was enough comedy on the pitch, arsene. Don't overdo it.

(Hope he's alright though - looked like quite a bad one.)

[Globalgunner]

Problem with Wenger is that he is cheap and unimaginative and blind to the absolutely frikin obvious
Arteta is no DM .....Yet he will not buy one
Giroud is a class C striker, but he will play him come hell or high water as he feels obligated to see him play in the WC

All he ever does is play his favourites for as long as possible without devising a strategy for the game in hand

He survives because fortunately, no matter what crap he puts together over a season, there are always 16 other teams more shit than his

How long do we exist simply to give this man, a reason to wake up every morning

[Arsenaladdict]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bf-OTVBIcAAlfcT.jpg

This is doing the rounds now, apparently happened today.


applied the handbrake much earlier than i thought

[Globalgunner]

Wow, those pictures, Hope he was being arrested for gross negligence and sheer incompetence

[Globalgunner]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bf-PqKuIgAA5FYs.jpg

http://imbo01.vg.no/users/bildespesial/images/4f54e00f7d00609ff130f16d8b4d7ed0.jpg?t[]=crop%3Ax%3D0%2Cy%3D0%2Cwidth%3D1200%2Cheight%3D87 1&t[]=maxSize%3Awidth%3D990%2Cheight%3D660&accessToken=0acdfca5125a07f73f6ca774c5d77879a93075 2d91810d1c9f5ab2b69078156a

That warchest got too heavy :shrug:

Where the hell were Ollie and Steve French, his official bag carriers.

[GP]

No soup for you.

[Munchies]

Where the hell were Ollie and Steve French, his official bag carriers.

Come to think of it, has anyone seen Ollie post after the game ?

[GP]

Ollie is out of the country, as it happens.

[Letters]

Problem with Wenger is that he is cheap and unimaginative and blind to the absolutely frikin obvious
Arteta is no DM .....Yet he will not buy one
Giroud is a class C striker, but he will play him come hell or high water as he feels obligated to see him play in the WC

All he ever does is play his favourites for as long as possible without devising a strategy for the game in hand

He survives because fortunately, no matter what crap he puts together over a season, there are always 16 other teams more shit than his

How long do we exist simply to give this man, a reason to wake up every morning

Oh yeah. Wenger is such a bumbling incompetent that we're only in second place, a massive point off Chelsea who have spent #shitloads and have the bestest manager ever. And City who have spent #shitloadssquared are a whopping -1 points above us. Wenger out, tbh, imo, rspca.

[Letters]

Ollie is out of the country, as it happens.

He's in Switzerland isn't he?
Hope there are no Dignitas offices nearby :unsure:

[Globalgunner]

Oh yeah. Wenger is such a bumbling incompetent that we're only in second place, a massive point off Chelsea who have spent #shitloads and have the bestest manager ever. And City who have spent #shitloadssquared are a whopping -1 points above us. Wenger out, tbh, imo, rspca.

Your standard reply, which you'll still be repeating 5 years from now when our record will read 14 years and counting. Loser's paradise, that's what she was now....by Bob Marley, in case you're wondering.

[Letters]

Your standard reply, which you'll still be repeating 5 years from now when our record will read 14 years and counting. Loser's paradise, that's what she was now....by Bob Marley, in case you're wondering.
Feel free to actually respond to my point :good:

[Globalgunner]

Only in your mind do you think you've made a point. All you ever say is that it's never Wengers fault, see what he's up against. .

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Feel free to actually respond to my point :good:

I think the problem there is no grey area, people seem to argue that he can do right and that he can do no wrong.
The January Transfer Window is notoriously difficult to bring players in, i think we would have found it impossible to bring the kind of quality striker we need in, but my question is why we didn't do it in the summer of 2012 or the summer of 2013.
It's also very alarming that our record against the perceived top sides is very poor and that is because we are largely tactically out thought, i really don't understand how we thought we would set up like we did today and not be punished for it.....but the main difference between us and the other sides around us is that we seemingly have no pace in the side, when is the last time you have seen us go at a team on the counter attack and look threatening...we have too many similar players who all play one position and therefore we seem bereft of ideas at times.
We have done well very this season but this in part has been accomodated by getting maximum points against very poor teams (this is why we are in a situation where any team in the bottom of half of the table is not safe from relegation), but take away a Spurs side in disarray at the Emirates and a Liverpool side who played three at the back in the first half and what results have we got against the sides we consider to be fighting for the table, today was a very similar performance to Man City we gave the ball away cheaply in midfield and they were able to break on us with pace, we showed our mental fragility against United making it six defeats in a row at Old Trafford in all competitions.....Chelsea managed to get a point against us at the Emirates with ridiculous ease and if we play like we did against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge we will be mauled.
The problem is there is an air of predictability about it which makes it all the more frustrating, and if people think it's ok not to have won anything for nine years than they are wrong......because of what happened today Saturday's result is imperative....Champions League qualification is not silverware but the FA cup is and i don't like the way Wenger almost turns his nose up at it.
We don't ask to win everything we just ask to compete, for the prices we pay for tickets that is not too much to ask.....and the way things are going i sincerly hope this is the last contract Wenger signs with us especially if he doesn't utilise the money we have from the Emirates and Puma deals.

[GP]

Apparently Arsene has been taken to hospital.

He's got a bad side haha lol jk not jk

[Globalgunner]

I heard a rumour on another site of a furious bust up between Wenger and Bould, , to do with our playing a high line. They say Bould has tendered his resignation. Wouldn't surprise me. Who wants to be constantly associated with our regular horror show cluster-fucks.

[Niall_Quinn]

1. Avoid MOTD
2. Avoid all footy web sites
3. Avoid tomorrow's papers
4. Don't watch Sunday Supplement
5. Avoid Sunday footie shows
6. Rip Michael Owen's head off and piss in his dead skull.

[GP]

The worse part of today was having to endure michael owen's commentary.

[Dr Singh]

There are just so many problems I don't know where to begin. For me it all goes back to an ineffectual summer transfer window.

We have been top of the league for most of the season, and Wenger has to be credited for that. However, I think much of that is due to the great work we did in the second half of last season. Our back 5 have been solid for ages. We've scored enough to win lots of games, but our attack has hardly clicked all season despite our strong league position. Our success for me is not due to Ozil. He's provided a morale boost for sure, but for me it's a continuation of last years work.

Giroud, Poldi, Cazorla, and Walcott have such a natural balance to them. Giroud likes to provide. Cazorla is a creative both footed magician who thrives off knock downs from Giroud and being a creative center for the team. Poldi and Theo are both runners who primarily look to score first. There are 3 scorers all buzzing around Giroud, whilst synergistically getting the most out of each other.

Ozil completely changes the whole dynamic of the team. Ozil wants to create, and as does Giroud. With those two in the team, Cazorla moves out wide where he is less effective for me, and it also removes the natural balance provided by Poldi and Walcott. The end result is a disjointed attack who have barely looked threatening recently.

Wilshere gives us the same problem that Fabregas gave us. He could easily go on to become one of the best deep lying midfielders in the league, but at what cost? Wilshere and Arteta were outpowered and got stomped all over all day today. Henderson and Gerrard were bigger, stronger and quicker. They outfought our midfield and totally dominated our "technical" players. When we come across a fired up team, we just never look like we can stand up. We are clueless. We make people like Phil Jones in midfield look like Yaya Toure. If all our midfield can do is pass, they get bullied, rattled, and lose their passing game. Then we have nothing. We've all seen it for far too long. Normally isn't quite as bad because at least Ramsey has a bit about him, but without him we were totally dominated.

For me today would not have changed if we had Higuain, Walcott or Draxler. It may however have changed if we'd signed Luiz Gustavo. Mourinho teams are always so solid. Why? He picks between Matic, Mikel, Ramires, Luiz and Lampard. What do they have in common? Aggressive, big, strong, or even in Lampard's case, extremely disciplined.

Hazard today scored a hattrick with Matic and Lampard behind him. Ozil today was barely in the game with Wilshere and Arteta being shat on behind him.

To get the best out of Ozil will require a lot of changes. At Madrid he had Khedira and Alonso behind him. I wish we could get someone like Kondogbia/Pogba to partner with Ramsey, but the Bender brothers are more feasible targets. After we form that solid base, then we can think about getting runners and a dynamic goalscorer involved. Our need for a CM has never been as apparent as today for me.

It'll be very interesting to hear all your views. Before today I genuinely believed we were 1 striker away from a complete squad. I've come to the realization that for us to win the big games, we'll need a midfield who isn't so consistently blown away in big games. People who stand up and fight. People who metaphorically and physically are able to stop a wave of attacks. Even if we had all our options available, I wouldn't trust Arteta or Flamini to adequately pair with Ramsey, and certainly not Wilshere.

[KSE Comedy Club]

I heard a rumour on another site of a furious bust up between Wenger and Bould, , to do with our playing a high line. They say Bould has tendered his resignation. Wouldn't surprise me. Who wants to be constantly associated with our regular horror show cluster-fucks.

That is the most worrying thing to come out of today if it's true.

I think we can all agree that it's Bould that has been the mastermind of our much improved defence. If we're just left with another yes man for wenger then we are well and truely fucked!

[Keith]

I moved in November, so far I've been to the local to see v Utd, v City, v Liv. I need a new local!

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Don't even know what to say. Just appalling all over the field. I wanted Wenger to use all 3 subs inside 15 minutes.

A complete car crash and a disgraceful showing.

[Maestro]

There are just so many problems I don't know where to begin. For me it all goes back to an ineffectual summer transfer window.

We have been top of the league for most of the season, and Wenger has to be credited for that. However, I think much of that is due to the great work we did in the second half of last season. Our back 5 have been solid for ages. We've scored enough to win lots of games, but our attack has hardly clicked all season despite our strong league position. Our success for me is not due to Ozil. He's provided a morale boost for sure, but for me it's a continuation of last years work.

Giroud, Poldi, Cazorla, and Walcott have such a natural balance to them. Giroud likes to provide. Cazorla is a creative both footed magician who thrives off knock downs from Giroud and being a creative center for the team. Poldi and Theo are both runners who primarily look to score first. There are 3 scorers all buzzing around Giroud, whilst synergistically getting the most out of each other.

Ozil completely changes the whole dynamic of the team. Ozil wants to create, and as does Giroud. With those two in the team, Cazorla moves out wide where he is less effective for me, and it also removes the natural balance provided by Poldi and Walcott. The end result is a disjointed attack who have barely looked threatening recently.

Wilshere gives us the same problem that Fabregas gave us. He could easily go on to become one of the best deep lying midfielders in the league, but at what cost? Wilshere and Arteta were outpowered and got stomped all over all day today. Henderson and Gerrard were bigger, stronger and quicker. They outfought our midfield and totally dominated our "technical" players. When we come across a fired up team, we just never look like we can stand up. We are clueless. We make people like Phil Jones in midfield look like Yaya Toure. If all our midfield can do is pass, they get bullied, rattled, and lose their passing game. Then we have nothing. We've all seen it for far too long. Normally isn't quite as bad because at least Ramsey has a bit about him, but without him we were totally dominated.

For me today would not have changed if we had Higuain, Walcott or Draxler. It may however have changed if we'd signed Luiz Gustavo. Mourinho teams are always so solid. Why? He picks between Matic, Mikel, Ramires, Luiz and Lampard. What do they have in common? Aggressive, big, strong, or even in Lampard's case, extremely disciplined.

Hazard today scored a hattrick with Matic and Lampard behind him. Ozil today was barely in the game with Wilshere and Arteta being shat on behind him.

To get the best out of Ozil will require a lot of changes. At Madrid he had Khedira and Alonso behind him. I wish we could get someone like Kondogbia/Pogba to partner with Ramsey, but the Bender brothers are more feasible targets. After we form that solid base, then we can think about getting runners and a dynamic goalscorer involved. Our need for a CM has never been as apparent as today for me.

It'll be very interesting to hear all your views. Before today I genuinely believed we were 1 striker away from a complete squad. I've come to the realization that for us to win the big games, we'll need a midfield who isn't so consistently blown away in big games. People who stand up and fight. People who metaphorically and physically are able to stop a wave of attacks. Even if we had all our options available, I wouldn't trust Arteta or Flamini to adequately pair with Ramsey, and certainly not Wilshere.

Totally agree with this, been apparent for years but never resolved. Don't think Wenger will ever look at it this way. Can't add anything to what you've said, just spot on.

[RomfordPele]

Great post. Agree with every word. We never replaced Gilberto basically.

[Niall_Quinn]

Great post. Agree with every word. We never replaced Gilberto basically.

You are forgetting Diaby.

[Globalgunner]

Totally agree with this, been apparent for years but never resolved. Don't think Wenger will ever look at it this way. Can't add anything to what you've said, just spot on.

The only thing I can add to the good doctors comments are that toughness is partly physical but mostly mental. Wenger prides himself in breeding this avuncular, collegial atmosphere. He doesnt breed warriors who are ready to die for the cause. When Wilshire or Ozil loses the ball in midfield with the team committed upfield to attack. then the DM must put a tough tackle in and foul to bring play to a halt. But no, not with us, the fouled player just sits on his arse and waves his hand while the other players either wave too or simply freeze. How often do you see 5 attackers bearing down on our 3 defenders. Answer...all the time. Rotational fouling, hard tackles that is what title winning teams are made of. Not cries of not fair and crap referee.

Claude Makelele, Dennis Wise, these are two DMs that were probably all of 5, 5", but tough as nails. You cant get the ball off them without play coming to a stop. We dont like that sort of player, because tough players have tough m,inds and dont take kindly to losing and playing for 4th. Wenger has spend his last decade weeding the team of characters and only likes the do as you told same mould players. What he forgets is that other teams breed these players mechanically. That is Why Mourinho's teams wherever he goes all turn into assholes, collectively, and regain humanity when he leaves.

Wenger believes in his system despite all evidence to the contrary. He wont stop and players who all know that teams need some bastards in them to win, no matter the size, will stick around for a while and bugger off.#

Arteta is probably 5, 10 or more. He is not mobile and has no innate toughness. There is a reason he has never played for Spain at senior level. He has never been good enough. But he is a nice chap, so Wenger will continue to allow him embarrass himself at DM, because apparently for 3 years now Wenger has not been able to find better one. when I complain he is a lousy DM. All I hear is that it isnt his fault he is not a DM. So who knows he may play in goal next season

We have been here debating this same ideology 5 years ago. 5 years from now it will be the same

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

There are just so many problems I don't know where to begin. For me it all goes back to an ineffectual summer transfer window.

We have been top of the league for most of the season, and Wenger has to be credited for that. However, I think much of that is due to the great work we did in the second half of last season. Our back 5 have been solid for ages. We've scored enough to win lots of games, but our attack has hardly clicked all season despite our strong league position. Our success for me is not due to Ozil. He's provided a morale boost for sure, but for me it's a continuation of last years work.

Giroud, Poldi, Cazorla, and Walcott have such a natural balance to them. Giroud likes to provide. Cazorla is a creative both footed magician who thrives off knock downs from Giroud and being a creative center for the team. Poldi and Theo are both runners who primarily look to score first. There are 3 scorers all buzzing around Giroud, whilst synergistically getting the most out of each other.

Ozil completely changes the whole dynamic of the team. Ozil wants to create, and as does Giroud. With those two in the team, Cazorla moves out wide where he is less effective for me, and it also removes the natural balance provided by Poldi and Walcott. The end result is a disjointed attack who have barely looked threatening recently.

Wilshere gives us the same problem that Fabregas gave us. He could easily go on to become one of the best deep lying midfielders in the league, but at what cost? Wilshere and Arteta were outpowered and got stomped all over all day today. Henderson and Gerrard were bigger, stronger and quicker. They outfought our midfield and totally dominated our "technical" players. When we come across a fired up team, we just never look like we can stand up. We are clueless. We make people like Phil Jones in midfield look like Yaya Toure. If all our midfield can do is pass, they get bullied, rattled, and lose their passing game. Then we have nothing. We've all seen it for far too long. Normally isn't quite as bad because at least Ramsey has a bit about him, but without him we were totally dominated.

For me today would not have changed if we had Higuain, Walcott or Draxler. It may however have changed if we'd signed Luiz Gustavo. Mourinho teams are always so solid. Why? He picks between Matic, Mikel, Ramires, Luiz and Lampard. What do they have in common? Aggressive, big, strong, or even in Lampard's case, extremely disciplined.

Hazard today scored a hattrick with Matic and Lampard behind him. Ozil today was barely in the game with Wilshere and Arteta being shat on behind him.

To get the best out of Ozil will require a lot of changes. At Madrid he had Khedira and Alonso behind him. I wish we could get someone like Kondogbia/Pogba to partner with Ramsey, but the Bender brothers are more feasible targets. After we form that solid base, then we can think about getting runners and a dynamic goalscorer involved. Our need for a CM has never been as apparent as today for me.

It'll be very interesting to hear all your views. Before today I genuinely believed we were 1 striker away from a complete squad. I've come to the realization that for us to win the big games, we'll need a midfield who isn't so consistently blown away in big games. People who stand up and fight. People who metaphorically and physically are able to stop a wave of attacks. Even if we had all our options available, I wouldn't trust Arteta or Flamini to adequately pair with Ramsey, and certainly not Wilshere.

Said from day one Arteta was a load of shite and he truly is. Against big teams he turns into a slow snail. Instead of standing up and relishing the moment, he retreats into his shell. That is purely down to the fact he has not got the quality to mix it with the likes of Gerrard, Lampard, Toure, Fernandinho etc. But because he has this professional, obedient look to him, certain fans seem to love him and think he's the dogs bollocks.

Get rid of him and put someone like Bender in his place and you'll see an instant improvement in the team.

First thing we should do is sign someone to take his place in the summer. Bring in a Matic and you'll see us go up another level.

[Munchies]

For all of the comments that say, look at what we're up against , I think we have to say that our team could have very easily walked to the title this season had Wenger strengthened properly in the summer. A top CDM was our priority, and so was a striker. Luis Gustavo/Lars Bender were linked to us all summer, and we even made a bid for Bender but didn't follow through on it :doh: .

As you've said, I doubt Wenger will even address the CDM issue. We missed Flamini for 5 years, and the man who he brought back to finally replace him was Flamini . Flamini is a decent squad player and Arteta isn't even a CDM to begin with.

[Maestro]

Agree with you both GG & SWAYR, but there is one man to blame for this and it's not Arteta

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

For all of the comments that say, look at what we're up against , I think we have to say that our team could have very easily walked to the title this season had Wenger strengthened properly in the summer. A top CDM was our priority, and so was a striker. Luis Gustavo/Lars Bender were linked to us all summer, and we even made a bid for Bender but didn't follow through on it :doh: .

Good point Munchie.

If we got in a striker and another midfielder (either DM or winger, just someone to give us an added boost in midfield in games like this) it would have helped a lot.

Even making the signings in January would have been fine. But we didn't. Begs the question: why?

[Munchies]

Good point Munchie.

If we got in a striker and another midfielder (either DM or winger, just someone to give us an added boost in midfield in games like this) it would have helped a lot.

Even making the signings in January would have been fine. But we didn't. Begs the question: why?

We also had around £40m sitting in the bank, and this figure is only going to rise further once the puma money comes in.

We'll probably sign Draxler in the summer for £37m or so, but he's not what we need. I'd rather spend £20m on a top CDM and not get Draxler.

Ozil was a panic buy. Not bad as he is a world class player, but he hasn't performed to his best ability so far, and has resulted in Santi, our best player last season, being pushed out wide.

It's getting tiresome that we've been crying out for a big CDM for all these years really. Don't think it's ever going to change anytime soon.

[Darknight02]

A lot of great points made on this thread and in particular by Singh regarding our lack of a decent center midfielder.

I agree that we need a physical players in the center of the park. But players of that ilk that have all the qualities we required are rare. Lars and Sven Bender are very strong but don't have a dominating presence in the middle in my opinion. Paul Pogba or Luis Gustavo on the other hand certainly do.

I think the problem today was that we conceded such an easy goal right in the first minute and we lost our heads after that. This team's core strength is not conceding. We have the quality to score a goal or two. But in my honest opinion, long gone are the days where we had the attack to rip apart and score 3 or 4 goals. To do that, we need fast and pacey wide players who can make runs all day long and a dominant goalscorer that just stays in the box.

This means that we absolutely must not concede 'easy' goals.

I think Ozil is not as much of a problem as people are making out. For me he is a guy who is adapting a new team, a new league and a new position. He had a total free role in Real Madrid and he had three absolutely dominant pacey men in front of him in Ronaldo, Di Maria and either Higuain or Benzema. He was like a catalyst and he knew they'd be making box runs and runs behind the defence for him to play. Both Alonso and Khedira behind him were disciplined and central players.

Now he has to dovetail with Cazorla who like him is a playmaker and comes into the center of the midfield. They are both playing in similar positions and therefore get in each others way as both want to keep the ball and both want to create.

Wenger has a real conundrum in his hands to try and get the best out of both. I don't know how he's going to do it. Because the strongest team we can put out in my honest opinion is only with one of them. I think we absolutely need two pacey wide men and Giroud in the middle to stretch other teams. That leaves 3 in the middle of the park. And the options are slim pickings from then on in.

On current form, I'd put Cazorla in there. But if we had Ramsey and Arteta in the middle, I'd put Ozil given what he's capable of.

Also, I think Rosicky is a player that this team misses so much.

ALL of our best performances this season were ones where Rosicky played. Liverpool, Tottenham, Borussia.

He brings so much pace, drive and intelligence to the team. Sadly his age means he can't play many games and I'm sure Wenger is saving him for the big CL games and Man U on wednesday.

However, all things considered, I think was a day where the whole team really just were not up for it from the start and just couldn't be bothered. That is shocking but shit happens.

It is not a coincidence that we are top of the league. Say what you want about big games but if we were to win the league without winning against the top three I don't give a shit.

Man U have done so for years where they lost or drew all the big games (bar us of course!) and won the league. No one cared about it.

When every dog and pundit out there is lining up to dismiss us - notice Phil McNulty's post on the BBC and I'm sure you'll read all about it in all the papers tomorrow - I think that's enough negativity from everyone around and no one cares or believes in this side and everyone is wanting us to fail.

So yest its frustrating and yes all of us have grievances with our summer transfer dealings and we are all pissed at the performance.

But there's nothing we can do about it. Moaning at the team of course is not going to get us far. And if we turn on them on Wednesday it'll probably shred away the last amount of confidence they have. Lets just get behind that team and give them the energy they need in this final push as we are so close.

I remember 2004 I was at Highbury and our season was on a knife edge against Liverpool. Of course back then the relief in the entire stadium when Titi scored was immense. I think no matter how great that team was, the entire team collectively were mentally shot. And we had a legend who dug us out.

This team is going to be mentally shot but I do honestly believe that we have a chance as we are just one point behind. Lets get this result out of the system and fcuking put one over those detestable mancs.

PS - I genuinely hope news of a bust up between AW and SB are wrong or exaggerated as that is not what we need at this point. I'm certain that SB would himself realize that and probably wait at least till the end of season if tensions are flying as it would probably destabilize this team even more.

[Zak]

Unfortunately Walcott is the only player who runs in behind the defence and has the composure to finish off most chances. I can't see us beating any of the top teams with this current team. Not buying a winger/striker has cost us again. Wenger needs to go at the end of the season.

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bf_AuLZCQAAhHkB.png

Oh My !

Gareth Barry ? :haha:

'Per Mertesacker was reportedly involved in a bust-up with a team-mate while training before of Arsenal's loss to Liverpool.' [The Sun]

Probably just BS to sell papers, but hope its not the case.

[Munchies]

Twitter saying it was with Sanogo :haha:

[Xhaka Can’t]

Where the hell were Ollie and Steve French, his official bag carriers.

With respect. You're an idiot.

[Letters]

I think the problem there is no grey area, people seem to argue that he can do right and that he can do no wrong.
This is what annoys me about this place although I don't think anyone has said he can do no wrong. I certainly haven't
Clearly we should have done more in recent transfer windows
Clearly it's not OK for a club of our size to have won nothing for so long.
Wenger is responsible for a lot of that.
But he's also responsible for our clear progress this year. It remains to be seen how far we've progressed, today was a bit worrying but we got thumped up at City and responded well, if we do so again then we'll be OK.

We have been restricted somewhat in the transfer window because of poor financial deals, that's been exacerbated by the billionaires coming in and inflating the market to ridiculous levels. And I do think Wenger has been too conservative in the transfer market. Ozil was a sign that the new financial power we've heard so much about is starting to be used, if that continues in the summer and if we've run Chelsea and City (who I expect to finish top 2) close then I'll be content enough that we're going in the right direction. Wenger is far from perfect but he's a darn site better than some people on here give him credit for, frustrating as he can be at times.

[Globalgunner]

With respect. You're an idiot.

with respect you are probably right. I was out of order

[Letters]

There are just so many problems I don't know where to begin.


We have been top of the league for most of the season

I find these two statements somewhat incongruous.
I did read the rest of your post and agree with bits of it, we do have some issues to address, but we have been top for most of the season and while we might not stay there we've done enough so far to suggest we're not a million miles away from a side that could win the title.

[Xhaka Can’t]

with respect you are probably right. I was out of order

Fair enough. :tiphat:

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

Get a room.

[Munchies]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSkqbGp1PvE&feature=c4-overview&list=UUBTy8j2cPy6zw68godcE7MQ

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

:haha: Starts off with an Arteta bollocking

Brilliant.

[fakeyank]

I find these two statements somewhat incongruous.
I did read the rest of your post and agree with bits of it, we do have some issues to address, but we have been top for most of the season and while we might not stay there we've done enough so far to suggest we're not a million miles away from a side that could win the title.

Let's hope not.. remember that we were in a similar (if not better) position in 2007/08 and also in 2009/10. We folded spectacularly in Feb/March... It is February and with the fixtures we have ahead of us, it doesnt look too bright!
And may I add, I do think our team is very good, our squad is fantastic (short another striker) but I do not see any leaders on the pitch and more importantly off the pitch. I just do not see our manager or any player who can grab the cunts by the neck and drag them out fighting for their lives every game. I wish we had one of Sir Alex, Vieira or Keane in that dressing room. Unfortunately, we got a bunch of pampered nancies..

[AFC Leveller]

Terrible day at the office started off the worst way possible and it was downhill from there. Liverpool opened us up at will everytime they attacked and their pace was just too much for us. the first 20 minutes was just a nightmare for us, i thought they'd score everytime they went forward.

I dont think i've seen a group capitulation like that before, everyone looked clueless and deflated, there was no leader, no organsation and the manager didnt do anyting to rally his troops. I said at the time that a good manager would have made sure his team didnt concede a 2nd goal straight after and made sure his team stayed solid and remained in the game. Wenger doesnt have that in locker, he just watched his team get raped and could do nothing about it.

We have another big game next up and we really need to bounce back, in style.

[Letters]

Let's hope not.. remember that we were in a similar (if not better) position in 2007/08 and also in 2009/10. We folded spectacularly in Feb/March... It is February and with the fixtures we have ahead of us, it doesnt look too bright!
And may I add, I do think our team is very good, our squad is fantastic (short another striker) but I do not see any leaders on the pitch and more importantly off the pitch. I just do not see our manager or any player who can grab the cunts by the neck and drag them out fighting for their lives every game. I wish we had one of Sir Alex, Vieira or Keane in that dressing room. Unfortunately, we got a bunch of pampered nancies..

Agree with a lot of that although we have shown quite a lot of spirit this year in close games. I've seen the highlights now and I'm not sure how much sensible analysis we can do. I haven't seen us ripped apart like that for a long time - the mauling at City was a bad one but I actually thought we played well that day and had a few decisions for us it would have been closer. Yesterday the early goal got Liverpool's tails up and took the wind out of our sails, I think it was just one of those days. We've reacted well to previous setbacks so let's hope we do that on Wednesday and tear Utd a new one.

If we do another Arsenal Collapse then...well :ilt:

[Power n Glory]

Terrible day at the office started off the worst way possible and it was downhill from there. Liverpool opened us up at will everytime they attacked and their pace was just too much for us. the first 20 minutes was just a nightmare for us, i thought they'd score everytime they went forward.

I dont think i've seen a group capitulation like that before, everyone looked clueless and deflated, there was no leader, no organsation and the manager didnt do anyting to rally his troops. I said at the time that a good manager would have made sure his team didnt concede a 2nd goal straight after and made sure his team stayed solid and remained in the game. Wenger doesnt have that in locker, he just watched his team get raped and could do nothing about it.

We have another big game next up and we really need to bounce back, in style.

We weren't raped. Rape would imply some sort of fight back or resistance. We just took it and accepted it. Didn't take much for Liverpool to over power us and I can't recall a single good passage of play from the squad or a solid attempt to get back into the game.

[AFC Leveller]

Agree with a lot of that although we have shown quite a lot of spirit this year in close games. I've seen the highlights now and I'm not sure how much sensible analysis we can do. I haven't seen us ripped apart like that for a long time - the mauling at City was a bad one but I actually thought we played well that day and had a few decisions for us it would have been closer. Yesterday the early goal got Liverpool's tails up and took the wind out of our sails, I think it was just one of those days. We've reacted well to previous setbacks so let's hope we do that on Wednesday and tear Utd a new one.

If we do another Arsenal Collapse then...well :ilt:

Agreed. Against City, i thought we played well and were in the game at 1-1 and at 3-2 but yesterday we were not in it from the 50th second.

[I am invisible]

So... how many did we win by then? Was out decorating all day yesterday, so I missed all the football. That must be Liverpool out of the title race now, surely?

[AFC Leveller]

We weren't raped. Rape would imply some sort of fight back or resistance. We just took it and accepted it. Didn't take much for Liverpool to over power us and I can't recall a single good passage of play from the squad or a solid attempt to get back into the game.

I sit corrected.

[Power n Glory]

The most pathetic Arsenal display I have ever seen!

[AFC Leveller]

The most pathetic Arsenal display I have ever seen!

Well for this season at least (unless we get spanker again by Bayern).

In terms of the last few years, we've had that 4-0 FA Cup loss to Man u, the 8-2 to man u again.

[Power n Glory]

The 8-2 was terrible but we at least tried to fight back when it was 3-0 and made it 3-1. Then we got stomped even more. There was no such fight back or even an attempt yesterday. It was just flat all the way and pathetic. It's up there with the worst.

[Xhaka Can’t]

If this does result in another collapse - then I have serious misgivings about another Wenger contract. Prior to this season I wanted him gone, but had seen enough this season to reconsider that.

He now needs to dig deap to keep this team competitive in the League, but the FA Cup is probably now the bigger priority.

[Özim]

It could maybe should have been 7 or 8 yesterday to be honest, Liverpool missed some absolute sitters, Chesney made a 2 or 3 top saves and Suarez was unlucky when he smacked the post from a ridiculous distance.

5-1 was actually very flattering for us, it's certainly comparable to the 8-2.

[Maestro]

If this does result in another collapse - then I have serious misgivings about another Wenger contract. Prior to this season I wanted him gone, but had seen enough this season to reconsider that.

He now needs to dig deap to keep this team competitive in the League, but the FA Cup is probably now the bigger priority.

problem is Gazdick & Stan are under his spell and have already offered him another 3 year contract. in no way should he be allowed to sign another contract at this point. let him work for it this season, assess the situation end of season. if he does well enough offer him one, if not let him walk and save on the compensation.

[RomfordPele]

problem is Gazdick & Stan are under his spell and have already offered him another 3 year contract. in no way should he be allowed to sign another contract at this point. let him work for it this season, assess the situation end of season. if he does well enough offer him one, if not let him walk and save on the compensation.

Yep, it's a done deal. The only detail to be worked out is how many 000s to stick on the end of his salary.

There's no accountability at the top for arsenal - that's where the complacency we saw yesterday starts from.

[Niall_Quinn]

Stop feeding trolls with all this self pity crap. Yesterday was a one-off fluke result that will never be repeated. Liverpool were right up for the game and had a plan, we were right asleep and had no specific plan as usual. But the 5-1 scoreline was pure fluke. Could have just as easily been a 1-0 loss and that would have been just as damaging. City, a billion quid team, were destroyed by the chavs too and if the chav performance was a bit luckier, a bobble here, a bounce there, a deflection, it could have been 5 there too. Does that mean pellegrini should be sacked? No, he was outmanoeuvred by mourinho, just as Wenger was outfoxed by Rodgers. Live and learn, it won't happen to either of the losing managers like that again.

Get a grip really, our recent results haven't been any worse than city and we're still second. We still have to play the chavs. We are not suddenly an awful team and the fact the whore journalists have turned their city shirts inside out are now talking as if the chavs have always been their favourites should be illustration enough. Pathetic arsewipes, don't pay any attention to these know nothing hype merchants.

Season is far from over unless we collapse in a heap of self pity like those journos are hoping we will. And sadly a few of our so called fans too.

[selassie]

Stop feeding trolls with all this self pity crap. Yesterday was a one-off fluke result that will never be repeated. Liverpool were right up for the game and had a plan, we were right asleep and had no specific plan as usual. But the 5-1 scoreline was pure fluke. Could have just as easily been a 1-0 loss and that would have been just as damaging. City, a billion quid team, were destroyed by the chavs too and if the chav performance was a bit luckier, a bobble here, a bounce there, a deflection, it could have been 5 there too. Does that mean pellegrini should be sacked? No, he was outmanoeuvred by mourinho, just as Wenger was outfoxed by Rodgers. Live and learn, it won't happen to either of the losing managers like that again.

Get a grip really, our recent results haven't been any worse than city and we're still second. We still have to play the chavs. We are not suddenly an awful team and the fact the whore journalists have turned their city shirts inside out are now talking as if the chavs have always been their favourites should be illustration enough. Pathetic arsewipes, don't pay any attention to these know nothing hype merchants.

Season is far from over unless we collapse in a heap of self pity like those journos are hoping we will. And sadly a few of our so called fans too.

I don't think it was a one-off fluke result. City destroyed us earlier in the season too. The issue I have with us is that we really struggle in games against teams in the top 8/top half of the table. We don't seem to have a game plan and that is what worries me.

Of course beating your rivals doesn't necessarily win you championships...but it does in a season where your rivals are matching your results against the lesser teams, it counts for everything. It will also be a major factor in us winning a trophy outside of the league, how can we be confident as a team of winning say the FA Cup or CL if we can't beat any of our domestic rivals?

If we put aside everything that went on yesterday, the least we should expect is a big performance on Wednesday and hopefully 3 points. Why is it that i feel the opposite will happen?

[Xhaka Can’t]

This team have done well this season. But we really can't do with more of these embarrassing performances. Perhaps Wenger could use some of these mystical hypnotic powers alluded to by someone on this thread on what's left of his team.

[Syn]

This team have done well this season. But we really can't do with more of these embarrassing performances. Perhaps Wenger could use some of these mystical hypnotic powers alluded to by someone on this thread on what's left of his team.

We - the fans - can't do with more of these embarrassing performances but the players seem to be able to shrug it off. After getting destroyed by Man City we picked up 20/24 points. The players can move on from set backs quite well but obviously when you're looking for 88-90 points for the title, any defeat (be it 5-1 or 1-0) is damaging at this stage.

[Xhaka Can’t]

If we react in a similar way, I'll take it. It will be tough though. Better teams are coming up and we've lost key players that were previously available.

[Niall_Quinn]

I don't think it was a one-off fluke result. City destroyed us earlier in the season too. The issue I have with us is that we really struggle in games against teams in the top 8/top half of the table. We don't seem to have a game plan and that is what worries me.

Of course beating your rivals doesn't necessarily win you championships...but it does in a season where your rivals are matching your results against the lesser teams, it counts for everything. It will also be a major factor in us winning a trophy outside of the league, how can we be confident as a team of winning say the FA Cup or CL if we can't beat any of our domestic rivals?

If we put aside everything that went on yesterday, the least we should expect is a big performance on Wednesday and hopefully 3 points. Why is it that i feel the opposite will happen?

I'm not saying "fluke" in terms of Liverpool not thoroughly deserving their win, I'm saying everything has to go 100% right for one club and 100% wrong for the other to get a 4-0 scoreline after 20 minutes. Normally such dominance results in maybe the breakthrough goal, a smack off a post, a great save, and incredible miss, etc. Much like the chavs when they annihilated city just as badly a we were beaten yesterday.

The fact Wenger doesn't seem to prepare for individual opponents, of course that has to be addressed and that's why we were so badly mauled yesterday (leaving aside for the time being the awful effort from the players). Everybody on the planet knew it should have been Gibbs for Monreal and of course such an obvious reality revealed itself starkly in the pitch. It took Wenger an hour to admit it - another problem we know about, he's stubborn as hell.

Injuries, why do we have to hear all the time about Fernandinho and Aguero as the excuses for city's humiliating pasting? Ramsey and Walcott? Not a mention from the media crack whores. Let's not buy into their shit. Instead let's ask what the fuck is up with us having so many crucial injuries all the time.

But instead it's all Wenger out, board are shit, players are shit - just a few days after it was Wenger should get a contract, board have done well with new deals, players have really stepped up. That's what journalists do, and as fans do we want to be copying those cunts? A win on Wednesday and it's all change again.

The fact we're pissed because we just lost top spot, where we have been most of the season, is reason enough to witness the progress. Not there yet, some old problems still to tackle, but lobbing toys as far out of the pram as we can is undignified and the media cunts are just loving it. Loving it so much they have gloated over images of a 65? year old bloke slipping and potentially injuring himself. See what lowlife slime they are? Better to stick two fingers up at the cunts than line up behind them like some here are doing.

[RomfordPele]

It's not so much the defeat but the manner of it - a familiar old capitulation at the hands of a team that was better motivated, better marshalled and better stocked with genuine attacking threat.

I hope we do respond on Wednesday (I actually think we will if we get the team selection right), but it's natural to worry that we haven't really moved on against the big teams. And to question whether we ever will under the current management.

I think the jury's out still in this. Let's see what the next four or five weeks tell us.

[Syn]

If we react in a similar way, I'll take it. It will be tough though. Better teams are coming up and we've lost key players that were previously available.

With the FA Cup and CL fixtures in between I think it's nearly impossible for us to get that sort run going, but our league fixtures are actually not that bad. Next 5 are Man Utd (H), Sunderland (H), Stoke (A), Swansea (H), Tottenham (A) before it gets very ugly.

I know everyone thinks it's stupid and unrealistic and against the point of trying to qualify for the CL in the first place...but Wenger should really consider fielding some Sanogo, Bendtner filth in the Bayern Munich games. The squad can't take being given the runaround in an extra competition. The FA Cup is very winnable with the draw the way it is, and the league should still be the priority. Focus on those two and chuck the CL.

[Özim]

Yesterday's result wasn't a fluke, our results in big games over the years show that (we've also been lacklustre for a while now and just haven't met a side good enough to take advantage), whenever it matters we get our arses handed to us, the manager can't get tactics/selection right and can't get the players motivated for these big games, it's ridiculous for people to suggest we can win the title without winning against the best sides......not because it's not possible but because if you want to be the best you have to be able to beat the best, we can't and until we can we'll never win a thing.

We've seen this all before so many times, it's surprising people are still claiming it can be different this time, why would it be when nothing we've done suggests we can break the cycle.

Our run coming up is very tough, we've got injuries (as usual), we look tired (as usual) and we're looking out of form (as usual), our squad won't be able to cope as we didn't sign the players we needed, we can't even win any cheap points as we don't have a striker who can score a goal out of nothing when we're in trouble, I can't see how we can come out of that March run unscathed.

[Niall_Quinn]

It's not so much the defeat but the manner of it - a familiar old capitulation at the hands of a team that was better motivated, better marshalled and better stocked with genuine attacking threat.

I hope we do respond on Wednesday (I actually think we will if we get the team selection right), but it's natural to worry that we haven't really moved on against the big teams. And to question whether we ever will under the current management.

I think the jury's out still in this. Let's see what the next four or five weeks tell us.

I agree with that, it's the manner of the defeat that's the real question. But evidently a lot of the vitriol against our own team is coming from the disbelief at being blown away by a goal blitz within 20 mins the like of which we won't see again for another 20 years (at least I fucking hope so and if we do then send me a hat and some salt). But we also have to balance yesterday against the manner of us being at the top in the first place. Some people have jumped from asking the valid questions to opening the door and kicking everyone out then blowing up the place. It's a temper tantrum by the fans, and rival fans love it and the media laps it up. What do Fulham fans think of this, for example? They see the fans of the team at the top of the table spitting dummies because they are down to second and still in the hunt. Yeah, we're disappointed we lost and pissed some of the old problems have resurfaced, that's fair. But these wild media style swings in our support are a undignified. This isn't like seasons past where we were fucking around trying to scrape 4th and it was legitimate to question such a lack of ambition. We fucked up yesterday but we're still up there when we didn't ever expect to be. And we have some big funds coming into play in the summer. Things look pretty good if you take a balanced view of it.

[Niall_Quinn]

Yesterday's result wasn't a fluke, our results in big games over the years show that (we've also been lacklustre for a while now and just haven't met a side good enough to take advantage), whenever it matters we get our arses handed to us, the manager can't get tactics/selection right and can't get the players motivated for these big games, it's ridiculous for people to suggest we can win the title without winning against the best sides......not because it's not possible but because if you want to be the best you have to be able to beat the best, we can't and until we can we'll never win a thing.

We've seen this all before so many times, it's surprising people are still claiming it can be different this time, why would it be when nothing we've done suggests we can break the cycle.

Well we all know the chavs are the greatest team ever, maureen is the best manager ever, terry should be player of the year - at least we know that if we go with this morning's media. So how did we do against this wonder team so far? Blown away? Let's ignore the actual facts and just assume we were annihilated. Wenger out.

[Özim]

Well we all know the chavs are the greatest team ever, maureen is the best manager ever, terry should be player of the year - at least we know that if we go with this morning's media. So how did we do against this wonder team so far? Blown away? Let's ignore the actual facts and just assume we were annihilated. Wenger out.

Ignoring what you think of him, his team are able to beat the top sides as they've shown numerous times this season and that's an important advantage they have over us, we fail time and time again.

Facts are both sides had a poor start to the season (both under new management so it's not entirely unexpected to have a period of adjustment), we had a great start had a healthy lead but now find ourselves behind going into our hardest run of the season, looking tired and affected by injuries as we always are.

Chelsea's performance against City was quite something given the fact City have put every team to the sword at home this season, the fact they managed to beat them speaks volumes about Mourinho's tactical nous and preparation, both of which we totally lack.

We got a draw against them yes, but we now have to go away to Stamford Bridge and who in their right minds fancies us to get a result there, given our form, their form and our results against these teams?

[AFC Leveller]

In the big games, i just fele that we're losing them BECAUSE of Wenger. He sets his team out with no plan or consideration for the other team's threats and he gets undone easily. Man u only beat us 1-0 but did we ever look like scoring? NO! did Man u have to work for it? NO. Same goes for City, they brushed us aside like a little kid (even though there were one or two decisions given their way) and Chelsea also stopped us easily. These same players are more than capable of beating Liverpool providing they are set up right and properly motivated.

I saw a mini league table involving the big sides playing each other this season (top 5 + Man u) and were were 2nd to last. Chelsea City, Liverpool, Everton and then Us followed by Man ure. It's so frustrating knowing we are gonna be stifled by organised sides and i can see the same thing happening on Wednesday.

[Niall_Quinn]

Ignoring what you think of him, his team are able to beat the top sides as they've shown numerous times this season and that's an important advantage they have over us, we fail time and time again.

Facts are both sides had a poor start to the season (both under new management so it's not entirely unexpected to have a period of adjustment), we had a great start had a healthy lead but now find ourselves behind going into our hardest run of the season, looking tired and affected by injuries as we always are.

Chelsea's performance against City was quite something given the fact City have put every team to the sword at home this season, the fact they managed to beat them speaks volumes about Mourinho's tactical nous and preparation, both of which we totally lack.

We got a draw against them yes, but we now have to go away to Stamford Bridge and who in their right minds fancies us to get a result there, given our form, their form and our results against these teams?

You mean ignoring the question? So excuses can be substituted for the facts when this idea of us being blown away by the top teams doesn't exist in reality? That's convenient. What was the score in the earlier fixture against Liverpool?

[Özim]

In the big games, i just fele that we're losing them BECAUSE of Wenger. He sets his team out with no plan or consideration for the other team's threats and he gets undone easily. Man u only beat us 1-0 but did we ever look like scoring? NO! did Man u have to work for it? NO. Same goes for City, they brushed us aside like a little kid (even though there were one or two decisions given their way) and Chelsea also stopped us easily. These same players are more than capable of beating Liverpool providing they are set up right and properly motivated.

I saw a mini league table involving the big sides playing each other this season (top 5 + Man u) and were were 2nd to last. Chelsea City, Liverpool, Everton and then Us followed by Man ure. It's so frustrating knowing we are gonna be stifled by organised sides and i can see the same thing happening on Wednesday.

I pretty much agree with this, we always get undone and that's due to the manager and I don't see that changing anytime soon.

[Niall_Quinn]

we always get undone

Can anyone play this fantasy game? Can we go one better? I'm going to say we always get undone by the little clubs too. Just don't look at the results and what I'm saying could be true. Then I could go on and prove a lot of points on the back of it.

[Özim]

You mean ignoring the question? So excuses can be substituted for the facts when this idea of us being blown away by the top teams doesn't exist in reality? That's convenient. What was the score in the earlier fixture against Liverpool?

City blew us away 6-3, Man U beat us 1-0, a draw with Everton and draw with Chelsea and a win against Liverpool, followed by a defeat (a team who we regularly beat until this season when they seem to have become a threat).

6 games 5 points (if you count Everton as one of the top sides 5 games 4 points if not) so that's 5 out of 18 points which is awful, might not have been blown away but we've dropped point left right and centre against them. You can add Spuds in there as well I guess (if you count them as one of the big sides) but it's still only 8 points out of 21 still awful.

We now have 2 left at home and 3 away as well against those sides, so it's only going to get worse especially with one of the home games being City.

[Özim]

Can anyone play this fantasy game? Can we go one better? I'm going to say we always get undone by the little clubs too. Just don't look at the results and what I'm saying could be true. Then I could go on and prove a lot of points on the back of it.

It's not a fantasy game, look at our record in games that matter over the last 6-7 years, see how many we've actually won when the pressure is on.

[Niall_Quinn]

So fine, it now turns out we haven't been blown away every time. Progress. Yes, we dropped points. Just as the chvas and city have dropped crazy points against lower placed teams, and utd and pool have dropped points everywhere. We have a chance to pick up points too.

[AFC Leveller]

Payback time next week bitches. We have to return the favour and at least beat them by 2 or 3 next Sunday.

[Niall_Quinn]

It's not a fantasy game, look at our record in games that matter over the last 6-7 years, see how many we've actually won when the pressure is on.

Okay, now the goalposts are shifting back in time. So let's go even further back. Now how are we doing against the top clubs?

[Xhaka Can’t]

The thing is, there has been change. Significant change. That does not mean I think we have eradicated all our bad habits.

But what I have, which I haven't had for years is hope for the future. We are no longer looking to sell and for the first time in over a decade, we are likely to buy a star than sell one.

We beat pretty much everyone we are supposed to beat, but remain shocking against the top sides.

We are almost sure to qualify for the CL, and on years past, that just made me groan as it made no difference. We were never going to be buyers. Now it is different.

There is a long way to go yet, but at least we are on the right path and there are players in this team that are working for the shirt.

[Niall_Quinn]

Payback time next week bitches. We have to return the favour and at least beat them by 2 or 3 next Sunday.

Exactly. Although I'd rather have been kicked out of the cup than lose the points yesterday.

[Özim]

So fine, it now turns out we haven't been blown away every time. Progress. Yes, we dropped points. Just as the chvas and city have dropped crazy points against lower placed teams, and utd and pool have dropped points everywhere. We have a chance to pick up points too.

We've dropped a lot of points, but the point is these big matches matter a lot, particularly later on in the season when you approach the end of the season, we've regularly failed to turn up in those fixtures before and we've already started this season's end of season run in against the better sides in a similar fashion, so why would anyone believe it's going to be different this time, because we've been top? We we not top a few years ago as well when something similar happened?

[Bergkampwonderland10]

The off the ball running from Liverpool yesterday showed us what has been missing since we lost Walcott and Ramsey…and without Flamini we have noone orchestrating the midfield to protect the back four. That's our undoing…it's amazing how stagnant we were yesterday and over our past 3 or 4 games. Walcott's loss was massive and yet Wenger chose to do nothing in the transfer window.. griezmann would have been a good replacement by all accounts.
Anyway…let's hope for a massive response. I'd play Rosicky from the start against Man U…he always ups the tempo of the team as a whole. Wilshere…does it in fits and spurts…not sure what Ozil is at…he's being marked closely but showed second half against southampton that he can up his game in an instant. He looked pissed off to be subbed…but he knows it was probably his worst game for us… Giroud needs to stop dropping so deep…he's definitely in need of support up front and we have NO ONE! Shame. Let's see if we can sort a few things out v man u…Wenger has already played his hand saying how shit scared we are of Mata…so let's hope he puts Arteta man for man on him…which I doubt! Wilshere can take rooney and kos can sort Dutch skunk.

[Özim]

Okay, now the goalposts are shifting back in time. So let's go even further back. Now how are we doing against the top clubs?

It's relevant, because our poor performances against top sides stretches back years, it's a cycle that's been going on for a long time and affects us every time we play them.

[Niall_Quinn]

We've dropped a lot of points, but the point is these big matches matter a lot, particularly later on in the season when you approach the end of the season, we've regularly failed to turn up in those fixtures before and we've already started this season's end of season run in against the better sides in a similar fashion, so why would anyone believe it's going to be different this time, because we've been top? We we not top a few years ago as well when something similar happened?

You're slaughtering the manager for something that will happen in the future?

[Özim]

The off the ball running from Liverpool yesterday showed us what has been missing since we lost Walcott and Ramsey…and without Flamini we have noone orchestrating the midfield to protect the back four. That's our undoing…it's amazing how stagnant we were yesterday and over our past 3 or 4 games. Walcott's loss was massive and yet Wenger chose to do nothing in the transfer window.. griezmann would have been a good replacement by all accounts.
Anyway…let's hope for a massive response. I'd play Rosicky from the start against Man U…he always ups the tempo of the team as a whole. Wilshere…does it in fits and spurts…not sure what Ozil is at…he's being marked closely but showed second half against southampton that he can up his game in an instant. He looked pissed off to be subbed…but he knows it was probably his worst game for us… Giroud needs to stop dropping so deep…he's definitely in need of support up front and we have NO ONE! Shame. Let's see if we can sort a few things out v man u…Wenger has already played his hand saying how shit scared we are of Mata…so let's hope he puts Arteta man for man on him…which I doubt! Wilshere can take rooney and kos can sort Dutch skunk.

I think our problem is our style of play, it's too slow and too reliant on perfect football, I agree that Liverpool's off the ball running was brilliant but their game was played at pace as well, everything they did was based on pressure, runners and quick attacks. Walcott does help for sure (as we saw in the FA Cup) however only occasionally as that's not generally the way we play.

We basically need to go back to playing with pacey runners (we have a few in Ozil, Cazorla) and need to get rid of Giroud up front who is just too slow, the midfield has a tendency to slow the play down as well as the moment with their sideways passing rather than more positive forward thinking passes.

[Özim]

You're slaughtering the manager for something that will happen in the future?

I'm slaughtering the manager for almost 9 years of the same thing, nothing to me suggests it's going to change this season.

[Niall_Quinn]

Reasoned response to yesterday:


But for me those were the qualities of those areas yesterday. They are not truly representative of us over the course of this season. Otherwise we wouldn’t have spent most of the campaign on top of the table. It wasn’t some quirk of fate that had us there: it was because until yesterday we had more good results than any other team in the league, and that’s something we shouldn’t lose sight of.

I get anger over yesterday, I get people are pissed off about the players, the coaching, the manager and everything else: what I don’t get is lack of context. If you’re annoyed at Arsene Wenger for yesterday, then fair enough, but your annoyance should be somewhat tempered by what we’ve done for most of this season.

It seems as if in some quarters there’s no willingness to give him any credit when things are going well, but the minute anything goes wrong it’s open season. I’m all for analysis and criticism but it has to be measured. If your first resort is vitriolic abuse, then spare me.

http://arseblog.com/2014/02/liverpool-5-1-arsenal-we-got-smashed/

[Bergkampwonderland10]

In the big games, i just fele that we're losing them BECAUSE of Wenger.

To be fair on him he took the blame yesterday too. Pretty much everyone just gave up. which was sad to see…against city we didn't give up at least. Let's hope it's a lesson learnt in time to get our season back on track.

[Özim]

To be fair on him he took the blame yesterday too. Pretty much everyone just gave up. which was sad to see…against city we didn't give up at least. Let's hope it's a lesson learnt in time to get our season back on track.

Yes they did give up, but he should have been screaming at them from the sidelines and perhaps making some early subs, instead he sat on his arse with his arms crossed, sounds like he gave up too.

[Ernesto]

The thing is, there has been change. Significant change. That does not mean I think we have eradicated all our bad habits.

But what I have, which I haven't had for years is hope for the future. We are no longer looking to sell and for the first time in over a decade, we are likely to buy a star than sell one.

[B]We beat pretty much everyone we are supposed to beat, but remain shocking against the top sides.[B]

We are almost sure to qualify for the CL, and on years past, that just made me groan as it made no difference. We were never going to be buyers. Now it is different.

There is a long way to go yet, but at least we are on the right path and there are players in this team that are working for the shirt.

A very valid point that à lot of people are missing. That signifies our improvement

[Özim]

Reasoned response to yesterday:



http://arseblog.com/2014/02/liverpool-5-1-arsenal-we-got-smashed/

I guess it depends on wether you've been satisfied with our displays since December, we've pretty much scraped wins and that's why it's kept everyone content, our performances however have left a lot to be desired.

[Niall_Quinn]

I guess it depends on wether you've been satisfied with our displays since December, we've pretty much scraped wins and that's why it's kept everyone content, our performances however have left a lot to be desired.

One minute football is all about points won, next it is about the manner in which the points are won. Whichever feeds the agenda at any given time.

[Power n Glory]

So fine, it now turns out we haven't been blown away every time. Progress. Yes, we dropped points. Just as the chvas and city have dropped crazy points against lower placed teams, and utd and pool have dropped points everywhere. We have a chance to pick up points too.

I hear the optimism and we should try to stay positive but I can see this team chocking. It's Wenger's trademark and I have no confidence in him to turn this around. I'm just being realistic. I always thought we'd have a chance to capitlise off our rivals change of management this season but it came under certain conditions and I think Wenger has fucked up royally in the transfer market as he did in past seasons where we were top of the league but crumbled. 2008 is the most memorable.

We have next season to strengthen but I think we'll lose Sagna in the summer and I wouldn't rule out more exits. I seriously doubt we'll be able to replicate the buzz and conditions we're seeing this year and I don't think we'll ever win the Premier League again with Wenger in charge. He can't handle the pressure. It's like with the Carling Cup game against Birmingham. I have no idea why his teams crash like that so often but it's becoming a reoccurring pattern and we can't be certain this season won't be any different.

[Özim]

One minute football is all about points won, next it is about the manner in which the points are won. Whichever feeds the agenda at any given time.

Being Champions is about points and performances, you have to earn the right and scraping 1-0 wins for me is worthy of champions. I'd expect a team who become Champions to put a few teams to the sword on the way to the title, just as we have in the past.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

To grossly over simplify the whole thing to an extent.... I think that if Wenger wants to win these big games more often, he either has to decide to prepare for the opposition a lot more than he does......OR......he has a better team at his disposal and assemble a superior squad.

Previously he at least always had a world class forward to give them something to think about. The last season and a half he hasn't had that. He cannot knowingly go into seasons knowing he is two major players short (by admission of his own targets), not plan for the opposition....not blast anyone from the touchline playing poorly or needing to wake up and do all his talking all in the dressing room at half time and still expect to be pick up more points in these games.

If wenger puts a world class player in practically every 1st team position then fine......ignore the bloody opposition and tell them to just go out there and beat them up, but that is far from the case.

[saintnickle]

The thing is, there has been change. Significant change. That does not mean I think we have eradicated all our bad habits.

But what I have, which I haven't had for years is hope for the future. We are no longer looking to sell and for the first time in over a decade, we are likely to buy a star than sell one.

We beat pretty much everyone we are supposed to beat, but remain shocking against the top sides.

We are almost sure to qualify for the CL, and on years past, that just made me groan as it made no difference. We were never going to be buyers. Now it is different.

There is a long way to go yet, but at least we are on the right path and there are players in this team that are working for the shirt.

Even though we are not looking to sell it wont stop the likes of sagna going and anyone else with any ambition.You are living in cloud cuckoo land if you think we are going to keep our best players and buy stars.i will wager you any money you want that we wont spend more than 30 million a year.We so called had 70 m to spend in the summer but only parted with 25 m in total even though it was glaringly obvious that we needed a striker.Its one thing to spend what you earn but another to only spend half of it.Cardiff spend more than us.

[Özim]

What was clear yesterday is there was noone on the pitch to grab them by the scruff of the neck and calm and instruct them and noone on the touchline. In successful Wenger sides we had the likes of Adams, Keown, Vieira, together with genuine goal threat up front to settle the team down or bring them back into it when under pressure....yesterday was like a bunch of headless chickens running around, absolutely noone was organising or being disciplined and we had zero threat up front.

For all the talk about Mertersacker being a leader, where was he yesterday when his teammates needed someone to instruct them and offer experience?

[selassie]

I'm not saying "fluke" in terms of Liverpool not thoroughly deserving their win, I'm saying everything has to go 100% right for one club and 100% wrong for the other to get a 4-0 scoreline after 20 minutes. Normally such dominance results in maybe the breakthrough goal, a smack off a post, a great save, and incredible miss, etc. Much like the chavs when they annihilated city just as badly a we were beaten yesterday.

The fact Wenger doesn't seem to prepare for individual opponents, of course that has to be addressed and that's why we were so badly mauled yesterday (leaving aside for the time being the awful effort from the players). Everybody on the planet knew it should have been Gibbs for Monreal and of course such an obvious reality revealed itself starkly in the pitch. It took Wenger an hour to admit it - another problem we know about, he's stubborn as hell.

Injuries, why do we have to hear all the time about Fernandinho and Aguero as the excuses for city's humiliating pasting? Ramsey and Walcott? Not a mention from the media crack whores. Let's not buy into their shit. Instead let's ask what the fuck is up with us having so many crucial injuries all the time.

But instead it's all Wenger out, board are shit, players are shit - just a few days after it was Wenger should get a contract, board have done well with new deals, players have really stepped up. That's what journalists do, and as fans do we want to be copying those cunts? A win on Wednesday and it's all change again.

The fact we're pissed because we just lost top spot, where we have been most of the season, is reason enough to witness the progress. Not there yet, some old problems still to tackle, but lobbing toys as far out of the pram as we can is undignified and the media cunts are just loving it. Loving it so much they have gloated over images of a 65? year old bloke slipping and potentially injuring himself. See what lowlife slime they are? Better to stick two fingers up at the cunts than line up behind them like some here are doing.

The fact that Wenger doesn't seem to prepare for opponents is bad enough in itself, for that reason alone he is not doing his job properly and in no way should be given a new contract.

For sure we have made progress, we have put ourselves into a good position. The issue I have is that we just don't seem to be doing enough, tactics, transfer market/player recruitment, it really does frustrate me and I feel it's not necessary, we are handicapping ourselves with it and I will happily admit I think Wenger is largely responsible for it.

I do agree that the media are cunts and have been waiting for this.

[saintnickle]

I hear the optimism and we should try to stay positive but I can see this team chocking. It's Wenger's trademark and I have no confidence in him to turn this around. I'm just being realistic. I always thought we'd have a chance to capitlise off our rivals change of management this season but it came under certain conditions and I think Wenger has fucked up royally in the transfer market as he did in past seasons where we were top of the league but crumbled. 2008 is the most memorable.

We have next season to strengthen but I think we'll lose Sagna in the summer and I wouldn't rule out more exits. I seriously doubt we'll be able to replicate the buzz and conditions we're seeing this year and I don't think we'll ever win the Premier League again with Wenger in charge. He can't handle the pressure. It's like with the Carling Cup game against Birmingham. I have no idea why his teams crash like that so often but it's becoming a reoccurring pattern and we can't be certain this season won't be any different.

Good post..

[Power n Glory]

To grossly over simplify the whole thing to an extent.... I think that if Wenger wants to win these big games more often, he either has to decide to prepare for the opposition a lot more than he does......OR......he has a better team at his disposal and assemble a superior squad.

Previously he at least always had a world class forward to give them something to think about. The last season and a half he hasn't had that. He cannot knowingly go into seasons knowing he is two major players short (by admission of his own targets), not plan for the opposition....not blast anyone from the touchline playing poorly or needing to wake up and do all his talking all in the dressing room at half time and still expect to be pick up more points in these games.

If wenger puts a world class player in practically every 1st team position then fine......ignore the bloody opposition and tell them to just go out there and beat them up, but that is far from the case.

:gp:

That's how we were able to win the league in the past but why we failed so miserably in the Champions League each year when we were title contenders.

[Power n Glory]

Even though we are not looking to sell it wont stop the likes of sagna going and anyone else with any ambition.You are living in cloud cuckoo land if you think we are going to keep our best players and buy stars.i will wager you any money you want that we wont spend more than 30 million a year.We so called had 70 m to spend in the summer but only parted with 25 m in total even though it was glaringly obvious that we needed a striker.Its one thing to spend what you earn but another to only spend half of it.Cardiff spend more than us.

That's also my worry. He's still moaning about the transfer window and trying to deflect attention away from our activity. We're still waiting for Sagna to sign a deal and it's a worry that we're still taking ages to retain the services of out older players. That's another thing to bear in mind. There are no guarantees that we'll be able to keep this squad together as well yet alone strgenthen. The signs are worrying and I want to see what we do in the summer.

[Özim]

Even though we are not looking to sell it wont stop the likes of sagna going and anyone else with any ambition.You are living in cloud cuckoo land if you think we are going to keep our best players and buy stars.i will wager you any money you want that we wont spend more than 30 million a year.We so called had 70 m to spend in the summer but only parted with 25 m in total even though it was glaringly obvious that we needed a striker.Its one thing to spend what you earn but another to only spend half of it.Cardiff spend more than us.

I agree, I think the 42 million we spent last summer was a one-off and only came about due to the sheer amount of fan pressure on the club. Next summer we'll see nothing before the World Cup, then excuses followed by 1 or 2 moderately priced signings, who won't be what we need as is the norm.

As for not losing players, Sagna is an obvious possible loss, but don't rule out players like Ozil wanting out either when he realises we're not going to bring in any big names, he doesn't look happy, our style doesn't suit him at all, at Real he created a hatful running up and down the pitch, in the last 8 games I think he has 2 assists for us.

It would be great to feel that things have changed, but despite an improvement this season I'm not convinced there's still a lot that remains the same, notably the manager and his tactics/style. If he had any common sense he would have reverted back to the style of his successful teams, because that worked numerous times for him whereas this current style never has. So how long should he persist? It seems there's no end to his persistence with this failed style and failed tactics.

The biggest problem at the club is Wenger because he'll never change and thus neither will the team.

[saintnickle]

I agree, I think the 42 million we spent last summer was a one-off and only came about due to the sheer amount of fan pressure on the club. Next summer we'll see nothing before the World Cup, then excuses followed by 1 or 2 moderately priced signings, who won't be what we need as is the norm.

As for not losing players, Sagna is an obvious possible loss, but don't rule out players like Ozil wanting out either when he realises we're not going to bring in any big names, he doesn't look happy, our style doesn't suit him at all, at Real he created a hatful running up and down the pitch, in the last 8 games I think he has 2 assists for us.

It would be great to feel that things have changed, but despite an improvement this season I'm not convinced there's still a lot that remains the same, notably the manager and his tactics/style. If he had any common sense he would have reverted back to the style of his successful teams, because that worked numerous times for him whereas this current style never has. So how long should he persist? It seems there's no end to his persistence with this failed style and failed tactics.

The biggest problem at the club is Wenger because he'll never change and thus neither will the team.

Your right ozim,ozil doesnt look happy and doesn't look like hes enjoying his football at all.

[AFC Leveller]

I dont know if anyone has mentioned this but when you lok at the way we've playing recently, trying to dicate the tempo early on, contain the oppo and hit them during a brief spell, it's worked and will work against poor sides but yesterday we came up against a side full of goals, pace and a side that plays high tempo and we wanted to playat our own pace (slow, tedious shit) but Liverpool simply didnt let us and robbed the ball of us everytime.

Something for the manager to think about next time (wont hold my breath).

[Marc Overmars]

We need some pace and energy. Losing Theo and Ramsey has killed us.

[topgun]

I'm slaughtering the manager for almost 9 years of the same thing, nothing to me suggests it's going to change this season.
Exactly right,and on top of that the guy is so tactically clueless it's unreal,but as the board have just said well done and more of the same please and here's 24 million for your efforts.

[topgun]

To grossly over simplify the whole thing to an extent.... I think that if Wenger wants to win these big games more often, he either has to decide to prepare for the opposition a lot more than he does......OR......he has a better team at his disposal and assemble a superior squad.

Previously he at least always had a world class forward to give them something to think about. The last season and a half he hasn't had that. He cannot knowingly go into seasons knowing he is two major players short (by admission of his own targets), not plan for the opposition....not blast anyone from the touchline playing poorly or needing to wake up and do all his talking all in the dressing room at half time and still expect to be pick up more points in these games.

If wenger puts a world class player in practically every 1st team position then fine......ignore the bloody opposition and tell them to just go out there and beat them up, but that is far from the case.

This is the Wenger master plan in a nut shell,it works fine when you have a team full of world class players to impliment it otherwise it will only take you so far and thats where we are and unless he decides to adapt and change its going to continue for the foreseeable future.

[topgun]

I hear the optimism and we should try to stay positive but I can see this team chocking. It's Wenger's trademark and I have no confidence in him to turn this around. I'm just being realistic. I always thought we'd have a chance to capitlise off our rivals change of management this season but it came under certain conditions and I think Wenger has fucked up royally in the transfer market as he did in past seasons where we were top of the league but crumbled. 2008 is the most memorable.

We have next season to strengthen but I think we'll lose Sagna in the summer and I wouldn't rule out more exits. I seriously doubt we'll be able to replicate the buzz and conditions we're seeing this year and I don't think we'll ever win the Premier League again with Wenger in charge. He can't handle the pressure. It's like with the Carling Cup game against Birmingham. I have no idea why his teams crash like that so often but it's becoming a reoccurring pattern and we can't be certain this season won't be any different.

Could not agree more.Great post.

[topgun]

The fact that Wenger doesn't seem to prepare for opponents is bad enough in itself, for that reason alone he is not doing his job properly and in no way should be given a new contract.

For sure we have made progress, we have put ourselves into a good position. The issue I have is that we just don't seem to be doing enough, tactics, transfer market/player recruitment, it really does frustrate me and I feel it's not necessary, we are handicapping ourselves with it and I will happily admit I think Wenger is largely responsible for it.

I do agree that the media are cunts and have been waiting for this.

Totally agree with that.

[Xhaka Can’t]

Even though we are not looking to sell it wont stop the likes of sagna going and anyone else with any ambition.You are living in cloud cuckoo land if you think we are going to keep our best players and buy stars.i will wager you any money you want that we wont spend more than 30 million a year.We so called had 70 m to spend in the summer but only parted with 25 m in total even though it was glaringly obvious that we needed a striker.Its one thing to spend what you earn but another to only spend half of it.Cardiff spend more than us.

I'll take cloud cuckoo land over that dark and cold shithole you inhabit.

Last summer we didn't sell, which was an improvement in itself and as badly handled as that window was. You need however to get out of this mentality over spending figures. I don't care if we spend seven or seventy million in a window, it is what is added to the eam's quality that counts. If Ozil is a statement as to the quality we are after, having spent most of the Summer looking to sign Suarez, that should tell you there is a sea change.

Having thought we had gone beyond the tipping point following the sale of Van Persie to United, to where we are now, I have hope for the future of this Club, whether it is under Wenger or anyone else.

[saintnickle]

I'll take cloud cuckoo land over that dark and cold shithole you inhabit.

Last summer we didn't sell, which was an improvement in itself and as badly handled as that window was. You need however to get out of this mentality over spending figures. I don't care if we spend seven or seventy million in a window, it is what is added to the eam's quality that counts. If Ozil is a statement as to the quality we are after, having spent most of the Summer looking to sign Suarez, that should tell you there is a sea change.

Having thought we had gone beyond the tipping point following the sale of Van Persie to United, to where we are now, I have hope for the future of this Club, whether it is under Wenger or anyone else.

No need for insults .Im a realist not a fantasist.Ozil my friend is a one off and when we needed a striker in the summer with the so called millions we had left ,we went out and got sanogo an unknown french second division player on a free and tried to sign another free loan player in Ba .We then in the january window went out and got another free loan player who was injured.. As a club, we have gone from spending like bolton to the dizzy heights of cardiff .If you think thats an improvement for the likes of arsenal who charge the highest gate prices in world football more fool you.You keep thinking Wenger has got a world class striker up his sleeve for the summer if it makes you feel any better ,but i know 9 years of the same shit is about to become 10.

[Power n Glory]

I'll take cloud cuckoo land over that dark and cold shithole you inhabit.

Last summer we didn't sell, which was an improvement in itself and as badly handled as that window was. You need however to get out of this mentality over spending figures. I don't care if we spend seven or seventy million in a window, it is what is added to the eam's quality that counts. If Ozil is a statement as to the quality we are after, having spent most of the Summer looking to sign Suarez, that should tell you there is a sea change.

Having thought we had gone beyond the tipping point following the sale of Van Persie to United, to where we are now, I have hope for the future of this Club, whether it is under Wenger or anyone else.

I think the fact that we've gone into another season under staffed on the playing side but with plenty of money to spare in the war chest suggest there hasn't been a complete shift in mentality. That's why the spending figures are significant. We played the financial prudence card again in the winter window and you have to ask why when you consider the size of our squad along with the injuries. The need for us to strengthen the squad for this particular season outweighed our need to save money.

[Xhaka Can’t]

No need for insults .Im a realist not a fantasist.Ozil my friend is a one off and when we needed a striker in the summer with the so called millions we had left ,we went out and got sanogo an unknown french second division player on a free and tried to sign another free loan player in Ba .We then in the january window went out and got another free loan player who was injured.. As a club, we have gone from spending like bolton to the dizzy heights of cardiff .If you think thats an improvement for the likes of arsenal who charge the highest gate prices in world football more fool you.You keep thinking Wenger has got a world class striker up his sleeve for the summer if it makes you feel any better ,but i know 9 years of the same shit is about to become 10.

Don't takeit as an insult - you reckon I'm in CCL for whaty I believe, which I reckon is preferable to the dark scenario you portray.

[JonasTC]

Same old same old, everytime we play a bad game, Arsenal is shit, Wenger out, board is incompetent, all our players are bad, Özil is not worth 42m and has been shit (despite him being voted best player in germany and voted into uefa team of the year 2 months ago). This is the first proper loss of our season, both the city and villa loss were heavily influenced by bad referering(?) and we cant blame anyone for lossing 0-1 at Old Trafford, they might be shit, but they're still the champions and it'll still show up at times, like it did versus us. Yes it was a super uber shit game and i myself were super pissed, because i had friends over and we're were suppossed to watch some nice football and go out, instead i was pissed off for rest of the day, but you guys seriously need to move on and support the club instead of spreading this spoiled brat shit that seems to go around amongst our fanbase.

All top teams in the world, will throughout their history go through some periods of 5-10-20 years of not winning much, we're in one of those periods right now, but atleast Wenger has build this club both financially and talentwise to become a really really strong club for the future, we're not going to end up like ManUtd once he leaves.

People need to take a chill pill, lean back and be happy for how well we've been doing this season so far. Seriously what do people expect? 1st place and atleast 10 points ahead? 50m spend every transfer window? Im clueless. I know people are still angry that we didnt buy in january, but please tell me who was available who was either a) not ridiculously overpriced because it was mid season, b) good enough and willing to be rotation/back-up or c) reasonably priced and good enough to start?

[fakeyank]

I'll take cloud cuckoo land over that dark and cold shithole you inhabit.

Last summer we didn't sell, which was an improvement in itself and as badly handled as that window was. You need however to get out of this mentality over spending figures. I don't care if we spend seven or seventy million in a window, it is what is added to the eam's quality that counts. If Ozil is a statement as to the quality we are after, having spent most of the Summer looking to sign Suarez, that should tell you there is a sea change.

Having thought we had gone beyond the tipping point following the sale of Van Persie to United, to where we are now, I have hope for the future of this Club, whether it is under Wenger or anyone else.

:gp:

I have hope for the future as well, just dont believe there is much under Wenger. But we are as a club in a much better place than 12 months back... I just hope we continue to move down that path!

[Xhaka Can’t]

I think the fact that we've gone into another season under staffed on the playing side but with plenty of money to spare in the war chest suggest there hasn't been a complete shift in mentality. That's why the spending figures are significant. We played the financial prudence card again in the winter window and you have to ask why when you consider the size of our squad along with the injuries. The need for us to strengthen the squad for this particular season outweighed our need to save money.

My argument is that the window was badly mishandled. I don't think much of the winter window either, but I had little expectation for it. The only way we know if we really are on a different path for the long haul is by what happens next. Two things happened that do suggest a fundamental sift:
- we sold noone and didn't need to make our customary transfer window profit
- we made a significant outlay on a player widely regarded as being world class
It makes no sense whatsoever to just leave things at that. I do not in a million years believe that if there hadn't been a significant paradigm shift that the Club would blow £42m just to placate the fanbase as some (not you) have suggested.

I am optimistic for the direction we are heading in, but I do have that niggling feeling that in order to continue on this direction, we mayneed a change of Manager. What Wenger has achieved in steering us to this point however should not be underplayed. Teams of similar resources have shared the same objective as us of building new stadiums for the future, but what has happened? How far have they come to meeting that objective?

If indeed they do try to actually do anything other than talk about it, it will be interesting to see how they do that, while maintaining a side that remained reasonably competitive. In fact for the most part - aside from Liverpool, once (perhaps twice), they couldn't even match us when in that transition.

I look back on that now thinking, Wenger was easily the right guy to steer us through that transition and am grateful to him for that. Is he the right guy to take us forward now?

I'm not so sure.

[saintnickle]

My argument is that the window was badly mishandled. I don't think much of the winter window either, but I had little expectation for it. The only way we know if we really are on a different path for the long haul is by what happens next. Two things happened that do suggest a fundamental sift:
- we sold noone and didn't need to make our customary transfer window profit
- we made a significant outlay on a player widely regarded as being world class
It makes no sense whatsoever to just leave things at that. I do not in a million years believe that if there hadn't been a significant paradigm shift that the Club would blow £42m just to placate the fanbase as some (not you) have suggested.

I am optimistic for the direction we are heading in, but I do have that niggling feeling that in order to continue on this direction, we mayneed a change of Manager. What Wenger has achieved in steering us to this point however should not be underplayed. Teams of similar resources have shared the same objective as us of building new stadiums for the future, but what has happened? How far have they come to meeting that objective?

If indeed they do try to actually do anything other than talk about it, it will be interesting to see how they do that, while maintaining a side that remained reasonably competitive. In fact for the most part - aside from Liverpool, once (perhaps twice), they couldn't even match us when in that transition.

I look back on that now thinking, Wenger was easily the right guy to steer us through that transition and am grateful to him for that. Is he the right guy to take us forward now?

I'm not so sure.

Does it not bother you though when we were told that we needed to move to the emirates so we could up with the likes of barcelona and real madrid.And at the end of last season we were told that we now can afford the best in world football only to find that we can only compete with cardiff in the spending stakes.The only thing arsenal want to spend their money on is the manager,Wenger has earned nearly 70 million in wages since we last won any silverware.

[Xhaka Can’t]

Your fixation on competeing with Cardiff in the transfer market is bizarre. I've never been interested in the spending stakes, but I am interested in signing good players while retaining the players we have developed and we appear to be en route to doing that. The post you quoted was fairly comprehensive and I've nothing to add to it unless you can come up with a new angle.

[IBK]

:gp:

I have hope for the future as well, just dont believe there is much under Wenger. But we are as a club in a much better place than 12 months back... I just hope we continue to move down that path!

Bottom line is that Wenger still needs to convince us that he has really changed. My worry is that as good as he is at developing potential, his record of proper, big, signings ain't great - and big signings is the way the league's been won for years now...

[Power n Glory]

My argument is that the window was badly mishandled. I don't think much of the winter window either, but I had little expectation for it. The only way we know if we really are on a different path for the long haul is by what happens next. Two things happened that do suggest a fundamental sift:
- we sold noone and didn't need to make our customary transfer window profit
- we made a significant outlay on a player widely regarded as being world class
It makes no sense whatsoever to just leave things at that. I do not in a million years believe that if there hadn't been a significant paradigm shift that the Club would blow £42m just to placate the fanbase as some (not you) have suggested.

I am optimistic for the direction we are heading in, but I do have that niggling feeling that in order to continue on this direction, we mayneed a change of Manager. What Wenger has achieved in steering us to this point however should not be underplayed. Teams of similar resources have shared the same objective as us of building new stadiums for the future, but what has happened? How far have they come to meeting that objective?

If indeed they do try to actually do anything other than talk about it, it will be interesting to see how they do that, while maintaining a side that remained reasonably competitive. In fact for the most part - aside from Liverpool, once (perhaps twice), they couldn't even match us when in that transition.

I look back on that now thinking, Wenger was easily the right guy to steer us through that transition and am grateful to him for that. Is he the right guy to take us forward now?

I'm not so sure.

It may boil down to a change in management but if the Board offer him a new deal and don't question why he didn't make full use of the funds available to him when we were in poll position, it's useless. We've didn't lose players this season but it's not as if we were tested in the summer. Rival clubs weren't knocking on the door. We'll see what happens over the summer.

[saintnickle]

Your fixation on competeing with Cardiff in the transfer market is bizarre. I've never been interested in the spending stakes, but I am interested in signing good players while retaining the players we have developed and we appear to be en route to doing that. The post you quoted was fairly comprehensive and I've nothing to add to it unless you can come up with a new angle.

Who are these good players you speak of ???We dont seem to be en route to it by signing a free crock in
Kim Kallstrom .He will really push us onto another level.And i use cardiff as it shows up our new financial might ..

[selassie]

Same old same old, everytime we play a bad game, Arsenal is shit, Wenger out, board is incompetent, all our players are bad, Özil is not worth 42m and has been shit (despite him being voted best player in germany and voted into uefa team of the year 2 months ago). This is the first proper loss of our season, both the city and villa loss were heavily influenced by bad referering(?) and we cant blame anyone for lossing 0-1 at Old Trafford, they might be shit, but they're still the champions and it'll still show up at times, like it did versus us. Yes it was a super uber shit game and i myself were super pissed, because i had friends over and we're were suppossed to watch some nice football and go out, instead i was pissed off for rest of the day, but you guys seriously need to move on and support the club instead of spreading this spoiled brat shit that seems to go around amongst our fanbase.

All top teams in the world, will throughout their history go through some periods of 5-10-20 years of not winning much, we're in one of those periods right now, but atleast Wenger has build this club both financially and talentwise to become a really really strong club for the future, we're not going to end up like ManUtd once he leaves.

People need to take a chill pill, lean back and be happy for how well we've been doing this season so far. Seriously what do people expect? 1st place and atleast 10 points ahead? 50m spend every transfer window? Im clueless. I know people are still angry that we didnt buy in january, but please tell me who was available who was either a) not ridiculously overpriced because it was mid season, b) good enough and willing to be rotation/back-up or c) reasonably priced and good enough to start?

http://hkcoaster.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/head-in-sand_21.jpg

[Xhaka Can’t]

Who are these good players you speak of ???We dont seem to be en route to it by signing a free crock in
Kim Kallstrom .He will really push us onto another level.And i use cardiff as it shows up our new financial might ..

You post as if all our players are poor. If that is the case, explain the progress that has been made this season.

And again, my post, above explained clearly why I feel we are en route to building a team through retention of our better players and adding to the team. I've no intention of doing so again. I also have no intention of reading about you bleating on about Cardiff while we are sandwiched between Chelsea and City at the other end of the table.

[Niall_Quinn]

I can see us getting relegated now. And if that happens it will be impossible to persuade Diaby to stay.

[Özim]

I can see us getting relegated now. And if that happens it will be impossible to persuade Diaby to stay.

It wouldn't be down to Mertesacker or Koscielny, it's the full backs they're allover the place.

[saintnickle]

You post as if all our players are poor. If that is the case, explain the progress that has been made this season.

And again, my post, above explained clearly why I feel we are en route to building a team through retention of our better players and adding to the team. I've no intention of doing so again. I also have no intention of reading about you bleating on about Cardiff while we are sandwiched between Chelsea and City at the other end of the table.

I didnt say all our players are poor but our squad is pretty poor as everyone apart from a few on here can acknowledge.Do you not agree with that??And as our squad has capitulated time and time again in feb and march i will reserve judgement on wether we have progressed from our 4th place trophy till the end of the season.
Just out of curiosity ,what would you say would be a sucessful season for wenger and arsenal??Would it actually involve winning anything,or is competing good enough for you??And would you welcome a new payrise for him if we go for a 9th season without any silverware.

[JonasTC]

http://hkcoaster.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/head-in-sand_21.jpg

Thx for proving my point :)

[Xhaka Can’t]

You were referring to us having no players anyone would be interested in
Who are these good players you speak of when I was speaking of us retaining players. That is a totally separate point to the question you are no raising. I can only answer with regards statements you mak, I cannot anticipate all the future tangents you seem to go off on.

Your points in order:

Squad strength - It has weaknesses in its depth, but that is improving - it is unacceptably weak up front.

A successful season - for me is competing for the title - given we have not done that in the past, where the only competition we were involved in was for a top 4 spot. That said, I don't think we'll win it, so I'd like us to go all out for the FA Cup now that even a so-so run in will get us CL qualification.

Payrise - I specifically stated I am unsure that he is the guy to take us forward in an earlier post in this exchange. You can take it as read from that, that I don't think a payrise is merited.

One final point - you only need to finish your questions with a single punctuation mark!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Letters]

I didnt say all our players are poor but our squad is pretty poor as everyone apart from a few on here can acknowledge.Do you not agree with that??.
Poor compared with what or who?
Our squad is not as good as Chelsea or City's but they have pretty much infinite resources. Whatever we do we can't compare with them. I wouldn't say there are many other better squads in the country.
I do fear a collapse if we lose on Wednesday though :(

[Letters]

Thx for proving my point :)
Aye, that's a pretty shit post selassie. At least try to address tbe points in JonasTC's post if you're going to reply.

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

Squad is not poor. It just lacks depth.

There's a clear difference.

[Özim]

Same old same old, everytime we play a bad game, Arsenal is shit, Wenger out, board is incompetent, all our players are bad, Özil is not worth 42m and has been shit (despite him being voted best player in germany and voted into uefa team of the year 2 months ago). This is the first proper loss of our season, both the city and villa loss were heavily influenced by bad referering(?) and we cant blame anyone for lossing 0-1 at Old Trafford, they might be shit, but they're still the champions and it'll still show up at times, like it did versus us. Yes it was a super uber shit game and i myself were super pissed, because i had friends over and we're were suppossed to watch some nice football and go out, instead i was pissed off for rest of the day, but you guys seriously need to move on and support the club instead of spreading this spoiled brat shit that seems to go around amongst our fanbase.

All top teams in the world, will throughout their history go through some periods of 5-10-20 years of not winning much, we're in one of those periods right now, but atleast Wenger has build this club both financially and talentwise to become a really really strong club for the future, we're not going to end up like ManUtd once he leaves.

People need to take a chill pill, lean back and be happy for how well we've been doing this season so far. Seriously what do people expect? 1st place and atleast 10 points ahead? 50m spend every transfer window? Im clueless. I know people are still angry that we didnt buy in january, but please tell me who was available who was either a) not ridiculously overpriced because it was mid season, b) good enough and willing to be rotation/back-up or c) reasonably priced and good enough to start?

You seem to have an excuse for all our bad results, if we lose to City and Villa it's because of the ref, sure there are bad decisions but we didn't lose because of the ref (that's a cop out) we lost because they played better than us and we conceded 6 against City and 3 against Villa. If we lose to Man U it's because they're champions despite them losing to all and sundry this season.

Noone said all our players our sh*t, but the points about Wenger are very valid, who in their right minds goes into the season with the forwards we have, given that one is rarely played up front and is injury prone, one wanted out, one is a kid and was signed injured and has been every since and the other has not proved himself to be top class.

Unfortunately he's limiting our development due to his management style, both in terms of adequately strengthening the team/squad, tactics and motivating his players.

People expect us to make the most of what we have and after 8 years it's not unreasonable, who wants to keep seeing a side who collapse when it matters because their manager is unable to install the right mentality and refuses to sign the right players?

Ozil is a quality player no doubt, but he's played in the wrong system and looks pretty unhappy at the moment, he was voted best player in Germany mainly based on his performances for Real where he created a hatful of chances, for us he's found it tough, but it's his first season and he plays in a team that move the ball forward at snails pace, when he likes to run with the ball and create in fast moving attacks.

We've done well this season, but in the last few months we've been scraping wins with pretty poor performances and have only got away with it due to playing teams unable to take advantage of our very sluggish performances.

Now we're reaching crunch time and once again we seem to be coming unstuck (we're fortunate we'll be meeting one of the worst Man U sides in recent history on Wednesday, a team we still managed to lose to somehow), it remains to be seen whether it will continue, but the safe money would be that come March we'll fail to pick up the necessary points and get knocked out of the CL as we always have done, it's down to mentality, preparation and studying the opposition (or a lack of studying in our case). People have had their concerns over the last couple of months but have pretty much kept quiet as we've been winning, even though if we're honest it's been poor but after this beating their entitled to vent their frustrations without being called "brats" as you call them (how patronising can you be?).

The trick is to learn from your previous experiences, Wenger never seems to and therein lies the problem.

[Niall_Quinn]

Wenger out. We were first, now we are second. It should, never, ever, be allowed.

[Özim]

Wenger out. We were first, now we are second. It should, never, ever, be allowed.

Yeah City have been paying off the refs that's why we're behind them.

[Niall_Quinn]

Sometimes it all just makes me want to cry like a bitch.

Wah, wah, wah, mummy.

[GP]

Sometimes it all just makes me want to cry like a bitch.

Wah, wah, wah, mummy.

You're in good company.

Or not.