Summer Transfer Misery and Recriminations.

[Power n Glory]

Here's his career record:

2009-2010 - 2 games 0 goals
2010-2011 - 13 games 1 goal
2011-2012 -34 games 7 goals
2012-2013 - 18 games 8 goals
2013-2014 - 50 games 10 goals
2014-2015 - 23 games 8 goals
2015-2016 - 37 game 17 goals

Not great.

It's looks really shitty. But as said to Sel, it looks like last season was his first year as striker and he scored 19. That's not that bad for his first season but it's pretty much the same thing he's been trying to do with Walcott and Sanchez.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

still distinctly average for an attacking player to have only scored 50 senior goals at his age, even Walcott has 80 odd at 27

[Letters]

It bothers nearly all of us but what other option is there right now if you want to actively support the team? We can complain forever and drive ourselves mad on a message board or give the guy a go and hope.
Moanio Ergo Sum

[Özim]

He's also 28 next month, so not like he has a lot of years ahead of him to improve.

[Özim]

It bothers nearly all of us but what other option is there right now if you want to actively support the team? We can complain forever and drive ourselves mad on a message board or give the guy a go and hope. That's all there is. We all know what we would've preferred but this is it for the short term, if Wenger was to leave at the end of the season. You have your thoughts about that, I have mine, neither of us know definitively if he will stay or go. All we can do is deal with the now. When something in life fucks up that is out of our control, you can either knuckle down and swallow it for the time being or make life ten times harder when there is nothing you can do to change it in the meantime. The only other option is to walk away but that is even more difficult to do more often than not.

Supporting the team doesn't mean I have to agree with our signings or targets, we've had all summer, no we've had 4-5 summers to find a striker and is this the best we can come up with Giroud, Wellbeck and Perez, it's no wonder we've become a 2nd rate club, whilst other top clubs chase quality players, we settle for journeyman and players who basically come cheap, that seems to be the main criteria, they have to be cheap.

I agree that's what we are getting, but that doesn't make it right and emphasises further the problems with this club, Everton were linked with this guy and he was going to be a backup for them, I just find this club really really odd, we're well and truly in the 2nd tier of clubs now and you can't help but be disappointed, the stadium for us fans was in reality a waste of time.

This looks like a signing to help our fight for 4th place to me, not to win anything. If he was a replacement for Giroud, or Walcott or Wellbeck fine, but as our main striker signing just not good enough really. Frankly I hope Everton get him, he's not going to make that much of a difference so we may as well not bother.

[Özim]

Oh and with regards you tube videos, they can make Giroud look good, so they're pretty meaningless:


https://youtu.be/Ndmi9IbWQbI

[selassie]

If he was a replacement for Giroud, or Walcott or Wellbeck fine, but as our main striker signing just not good enough really. Frankly I hope Everton get him, he's not going to make that much of a difference so we may as well not bother.

Assuming we do sign him, he's just another squad type level signing IMO. I don't think he will be a bonafide starter, I think he just gives us further options which in itself is a problem.

I'm not totally against this signing because we do need someone but I would have preferred us to rectify this long-standing issue with a grade a type signing, we have the money...just not the will or desire.

[Özim]

It's looks really shitty. But as said to Sel, it looks like last season was his first year as striker and he scored 19. That's not that bad for his first season but it's pretty much the same thing he's been trying to do with Walcott and Sanchez.

He's almost 28 now though, just find this signing uninspiring to be honest, we claim we only look for quality and then are interested in a guy again noone have ever heard of, who is getting on, has a poor career goal record and most importantly who is cheap (that's our only criteria let's be honest here). Again as you say 1 season up front by the age of 28, could have just been a one off, he has no kind of goal record before that, whether he's on the wing or not, his record should still be somehwat better if he can shoot.

I can't get excited about this, we've done this repeatedly since RVP left, never signing quality and settling for 2nd tier players and that's why we are where we are now, this signing isn't going to win us anything, 4th place is about our limit.

[Özim]

Assuming we do sign him, he's just another squad type level signing IMO. I don't think he will be a bonafide starter, I think he just gives us further options which in itself is a problem.

I'm not totally against this signing because we do need someone but I would have preferred us to rectify this long-standing issue with a grade a type signing, we have the money...just not the will or desire.

I'm kinda with you, I woudn't be against this signing, if it still meant we would go out and find a top class forward a little later down the line, but problem is we know all too well we won't, Wenger will just say we have Walcott, Giroud, Wellbeck, Perez, Sanchez, Sanogo and Akpom which is plenty of options up front, that will be the end of our hope to sign someone decent.

Quite frankly I'd rather we had paid the money for Lacazette who at least have a proven goal record.

[Kano]

Supporting the team doesn't mean I have to agree with our signings or targets, we've had all summer, no we've had 4-5 summers to find a striker and is this the best we can come up with Giroud, Wellbeck and Perez, it's no wonder we've become a 2nd rate club, whilst other top clubs chase quality players, we settle for journeyman and players who basically come cheap, that seems to be the main criteria, they have to be cheap.

I agree that's what we are getting, but that doesn't make it right and emphasises further the problems with this club, Everton were linked with this guy and he was going to be a backup for them, I just find this club really really odd, we're well and truly in the 2nd tier of clubs now and you can't help but be disappointed, the stadium for us fans was in reality a waste of time.

This looks like a signing to help our fight for 4th place to me, not to win anything. If he was a replacement for Giroud, or Walcott or Wellbeck fine, but as our main striker signing just not good enough really. Frankly I hope Everton get him, he's not going to make that much of a difference so we may as well not bother.

No one is asking you to agree. A summary of my post is that most of us aren't happy with the selection we have left but our options are limited. The other option is to keep reverting back to templated posts, saying the same thing again and again and being as Groundhog as Wenger is. That's the reality. Wishing for other things is fantasy. We all know that now. So it comes down to which world you want to live in. Most of us know and agree on many of the problems in the club, but this isn't about that now. This is about can we find a way to improve the team at all, after another transfer window fuck up.

So your bottom line is, given the reality of the situation - not what we want to happen or should happen remember - you would prefer that in this current predicament, we rely on one striker, rather than getting in someone else who might improve us slightly? That makes even less sense.

[Goonermerree]

He's almost 28 now though, just find this signing uninspiring to be honest, we claim we only look for quality and then are interested in a guy again noone have ever heard of, who is getting on, has a poor career goal record and most importantly who is cheap (that's our only criteria let's be honest here). Again as you say 1 season up front by the age of 28, could have just been a one off, he has no kind of goal record before that, whether he's on the wing or not, his record should still be somehwat better if he can shoot.

I can't get excited about this, we've done this repeatedly since RVP left, never signing quality and settling for 2nd tier players and that's why we are where we are now, this signing isn't going to win us anything, 4th place is about our limit.

I think our top four trophy is in jeopardy this season.

[Letters]

[/B][/COLOR]I think our top four trophy is in jeopardy this season.
That's about the millionth season in a row I've people say that.
I think we'll finish top 4 but we won't win the league and that's the issue for me. With our resources we should be challenging.

[selassie]

[/B][/COLOR]

I think our top four trophy is in jeopardy this season.

I think it will be a mighty fight for us to finish top 4. I think Utd, City and Chelsea will all finish above us, out of us, Spuds, Leicester and Liverpool for 4th IMO.

[Goonermerree]

That's about the millionth season in a row I've people say that.
I think we'll finish top 4 but we won't win the league and that's the issue for me. With our resources we should be challenging.

Last season, Chelsea, United and City didn't perform well, they have now strengthened in the management position and on the field. Liverpool could be a force to be reckoned with, but who knows after they lost at the weekend. Tottenham could remain at the level they were at last year, so it could be a fight with us and them for 4th. Add into that the unknown quantities of other clubs, such as Everton and who knows what could happen. I don't disagree that we should be challenging for the title though. Winning it would be tough, but it would be good to be there or there abouts in April.

[Letters]

There are more teams in the mix this year but every year, especially when we've had a rocky start, people have said we won't finish top 4. Always have. I think we will again.

[Goonermerree]

There are more teams in the mix this year but every year, especially when we've had a rocky start, people have said we won't finish top 4. Always have. I think we will again.

We'll see!

[Letters]

We will :lol:

I think we'll finish 3rd behind City and Utd. Liverpool, Chelsea and Spurs for 4th. Leicester won't finish top 4 IMO.

[Goonermerree]

We will :lol:

I think we'll finish 3rd behind City and Utd. Liverpool, Chelsea and Spurs for 4th. Leicester won't finish top 4 IMO.

Why have you knocked Chelsea out of the equation?

[Letters]

Why have you knocked Chelsea out of the equation?

Just don't think they'll be as strong as the Manchester sides or us. May be wrong. We'll see.

[Power n Glory]

He's almost 28 now though, just find this signing uninspiring to be honest, we claim we only look for quality and then are interested in a guy again noone have ever heard of, who is getting on, has a poor career goal record and most importantly who is cheap (that's our only criteria let's be honest here). Again as you say 1 season up front by the age of 28, could have just been a one off, he has no kind of goal record before that, whether he's on the wing or not, his record should still be somehwat better if he can shoot.

I can't get excited about this, we've done this repeatedly since RVP left, never signing quality and settling for 2nd tier players and that's why we are where we are now, this signing isn't going to win us anything, 4th place is about our limit.

It's never about the quality. It's always about the price tag. It's a gamble.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Satisfied with this (potential) signing. Not a mega star by any means but it's clear that Wenger doesn't feel that there are any gettable ones out there and that he doesn't rate the likes of Icardi or Lacazette.

Also quite reassuring that we managed to pip Everton to him as Koeman is certainly a good judge at evaluating players.

[Goonermerree]

Just don't think they'll be as strong as the Manchester sides or us. May be wrong. We'll see.

:d We will!

[Özim]

To be honest if we were going to go the cheap route (predictable) would have preferred that Ben Yedder guy, at least he had a good goal record.

[Özim]

Perez looks better than what we have to be fair (but that's on a youtube video so), which is something, age is an issue though and he's not really likely to be the answer

[Kano]

Oh and with regards you tube videos, they can make Giroud look good, so they're pretty meaningless:


https://youtu.be/Ndmi9IbWQbI

That's what I thought about Janssen tbf.

And 24 goals is good. Just not great.

[Power n Glory]

There are more teams in the mix this year but every year, especially when we've had a rocky start, people have said we won't finish top 4. Always have. I think we will again.

This is the first time in Prem history we've got 4 managers in the league that have experienced winning the title in top leagues as well as successfully defending their titles and they're all coaching the top English clubs in football.

That's leaving out Koeman at Everton who has an impressive CV with league titles and cups in Holland and Spain, Pochettino at Spurs and Bilic at West Ham. These 3 clubs will be pushing for 4th and they have managers that have that potential. 2 of them have/will have new stadiums.

This is unlike any other season and these coaches manage to keep their jobs for a few seasons at least, we're going to drop out of the top 4 at some point. We have to change managers at some point but I think we've stagnated for so long we're going to be in trouble when Wenger finally steps aside because the competition will be fierce.

[Özim]

That's what I thought about Janssen tbf.

And 24 goals is good. Just not great.

You could be right but Janssen was very young, scoring goals at a young age is more unusual. As for the 24 goals, it's not the amount just when he scores them, he goes on long barren spells which stats just don't illustrate, it's better to have a player who scores more consistently.

[Marc Overmars]

Don't know anything about this Perez bloke but I've said in the past I'm not as caught up as others on a new striker being a super duper amazing worldie. As long as he gets a fair chance to prove himself and we look open to trying new things then good luck.

[AFC Leveller]

:blink:

So you think Wenger is a "tight cunt" who is "wasting money"?

Tight when it comes to transfers and paying what the market says. Im sure you know what i mean.

[Özim]

What this Perez thing also shows is we have absolutely no transfer strategy, we're just nicking other clubs scouting because ours is so inadequate, Everton were well on their way to signing him, we probably had never even heard of him.

[Marc Overmars]

Spuds bid £15m for Zaha. :unsure:

[selassie]

What this Perez thing also shows is we have absolutely no transfer strategy, we're just nicking other clubs scouting because ours is so inadequate, Everton were well on their way to signing him, we probably had never even heard of him.

Yep, the last couple of seasons have definitely shown us that we don't have a proper strategy per se. I think a lot of that has to do with Wenger and his reluctance to pay the market rate.

I think he did have an idea of what he wanted but as usual has prioritised getting what he perceives as market value over the quality of what we actually need.

[Niall_Quinn]

It's never about the quality. It's always about the price tag. It's a gamble.

That's one of the reasons Wenger is a laughing stock. He's all qualiteeee this and qualitieeee that, oh we can't sign that expensive player unless he brings more qualiteeee. Shove a pile of barrel scrapings at him though and fuck quality, he's in there in a flash with his penny purse at the ready. I think we're supposed to be fooled by it all. When you start bringing together all the aspects of this summer, the statements from the club and the manager, the laughable financial claims being made, the dithering and fucking around, the negligent and probably already terminal start to the season, the continuing two fingered salute to the fans and anyone else who dares ask question - you can really start to see that this club is run by scum and managed by a deeply dishonest, deceitful and devious individual. I don't know what's happened to the bloke. Filth like Kronke, you expect it. Wenger used to be a totally different guy though. Now look at him. Up to his neck in it.

[Niall_Quinn]

Satisfied with this (potential) signing. Not a mega star by any means but it's clear that Wenger doesn't feel that there are any gettable ones out there and that he doesn't rate the likes of Icardi or Lacazette.

Also quite reassuring that we managed to pip Everton to him as Koeman is certainly a good judge at evaluating players.

The German bloke was a done deal too. Don't believe a word of this until he steps onto the pitch in our kit. Even if we do sign him he could still have a broken back, an arrest warrant from Interpol. Any way we can find to fuck it up, we'll do it.

But say he eventually steps out on the pitch.

What will your response be when he runs over and takes up position on the right wing?

[cricketsi]

He's almost 28 now though, just find this signing uninspiring to be honest, we claim we only look for quality and then are interested in a guy again noone have ever heard of, who is getting on, has a poor career goal record and most importantly who is cheap (that's our only criteria let's be honest here). Again as you say 1 season up front by the age of 28, could have just been a one off, he has no kind of goal record before that, whether he's on the wing or not, his record should still be somehwat better if he can shoot.

I can't get excited about this, we've done this repeatedly since RVP left, never signing quality and settling for 2nd tier players and that's why we are where we are now, this signing isn't going to win us anything, 4th place is about our limit.

I agree, it's not an inspiring signing, but my previous point was that stats can't necessarily tell you everything, so maybe there is hope, and not write him off just on the numbers. Stats can tell lots of stories, for example, up until the age of 27, RVP had 63 goals in 192 league games, and Lucas Perez has 48 goals in 148 league games - almost identical ratios.

Not saying he will be as good, but we know there were reasons behind the relatively poor early career stats for RVP compared with what he became, and I don't think any of us know enough about this guy to say there isn't scope for him to be better than he first appears.

[Niall_Quinn]

What this Perez thing also shows is we have absolutely no transfer strategy, we're just nicking other clubs scouting because ours is so inadequate, Everton were well on their way to signing him, we probably had never even heard of him.

We do have a transfer strategy. Dither, obfuscate, avoid, evade, hide, wait, delay, haggle, insult - anything to avoid getting the deal done. I'm surprised you haven't noticed.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Wait, wait, wait I might have jumped the gun. There is a reason for those really shitty numbers.

He was winger. It looks like last season was the first time he had a consistent run up front.

Wow......Wenger going for a player who can play on the wing, who would have guessed

[Niall_Quinn]

I agree, it's not an inspiring signing, but my previous point was that stats can't necessarily tell you everything, so maybe there is hope, and not write him off just on the numbers. Stats can tell lots of stories, for example, up until the age of 27, RVP had 63 goals in 192 league games, and Lucas Perez has 48 goals in 148 league games - almost identical ratios.

Not saying he will be as good, but we know there were reasons behind the relatively poor early career stats for RVP compared with what he became, and I don't think any of us know enough about this guy to say there isn't scope for him to be better than he first appears.

Because it's such a struggle to get anything done in the transfer window the next major problem is being overlooked. RvC benefitted from playing with the likes of Henry, Vieira, Pires. The qualiteeee of the team has dropped sharply since those days. But even if Ozil manages to do it all on his own, we still have the system this poor sod will be dumped into if he joins. Tip, tap, again the opposite of what we used to enjoy. That's supposedly one of the reasons Vardy wouldn't come, he thought our much vaunted beautiful game would leave him isolated and redundant. No striker can score when he's just standing there watching the team endlessly tap it across the edge of the box. This guy will have to learn that system and like so many others that have "benefitted" from the tuition, his game will decline.

[Niall_Quinn]

Wow......Wenger going for a player who can play on the wing, who would have guessed

Also he can play CB.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

If we have two players that can score 15+ potentially then that surely is better than having one. You would hope that if one hits a wall and doesn't score, the other one can step in and carry that on. Whether or not that is this guy, it remains to be seen. Either way, as long as he has an Arsenal shirt on he deserves our support to prove himself. This is where we are now, whether we like it or not.

I always join this camp and let us see what he is like first........I cannot see Wenger every going out and getting that franchise player who would cost us 50mil easy, the one that everything is going to go through, the one that will nab us 30 goals a season. He much prefers to have the goals spread over the place, he wants teams to believe that the threat could come from anywhere......Sanchez, Giroud, Walcott, Cazola, Ramsey......I don't think he saw what TH14 turned into coming! He wants to spread the money, I can see Musatfi and Perez coming in and that will be it............I resign myself to the way he does things, it is just frustrating that it takes too long to get the deals done........there is a call to have business done before the fist ball is kicked (which I believe Wenger lends his voice to) maybe that will get him to move his arse but I very much doubt it.........bottom line I welcome this guy as we are now running out of time and options and pray he works out.......would have liked us to be a bit more serious about Nolito though (maybe it's because he is playing for Citeh but he looks decent)

[fakeyank]

If Zaha is 15 million quid, then we should absolutely go in for him. He is at least 5 million times better than Theo.

[Power n Glory]

He looks a tidy player, a bit of a fighter too.

I like the look of him. Has the footwork and pace. Seems to be able to take on his man, jink passed a player or two and he looks like a tidy finisher. Composed and neat.One or long range shots.

He gets a lot of space to score with teams playing a highline but seeing the footwork and work rate makes me think he has more to his game than just someone who can get on the end of moves. Can also pass which is also helps. Snap him up. The further away we get from a Giroud style player the better.

[bignev]

If Zaha is 15 million quid, then we should absolutely go in for him. He is at least 5 million times better than Theo.

You have a good point there.

[Power n Glory]

Wow......Wenger going for a player who can play on the wing, who would have guessed

A player that can play multiple positions is a two for one deal for Wenger. :lol:

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Also he can play CB.

and Mustafi can play CF......Wenger is a very clever guy, you know

[Power n Glory]

If Zaha is 15 million quid, then we should absolutely go in for him. He is at least 5 million times better than Theo.

Hell no. Wenger's track record with young wingers still developing is piss poor. Zaha would be better off somewhere else.

Wenger hasn't been able to get anything out of Ox, Walcott, won't use Campbell, fucked up Reyes, Ryo, Vela was a hot prospect striker and turned to shit under Wenger, he's lucky to still have a career, fucks knows what happened to Quincy.

All of these guys had raw natural talent. Zaha should steer clear if he wants to develop. We've seen better players with higher expectations flop.

[fakeyank]

Hell no. Wenger's track record with young wingers still developing is piss poor. Zaha would be better off somewhere else.

Wenger hasn't been able to get anything out of Ox, Walcott, won't use Campbell, fucked up Reyes, Ryo, Vela was a hot prospect striker and turned to shit under Wenger, he's lucky to still have a career, fucks knows what happened to Quincy.

All of these guys had raw natural talent. Zaha should steer clear if he wants to develop. We've seen better players with higher expectations flop.

Zaha obviously should chose anyone but Wenger as a manager, but as a selfish Arsenal fan, I'd rather have someone like him with pace and ability in the team. When I say pace and ability, I dont want to show that he is some amazing great player but when you compare him with the shower of shite we have, he seems like Messi at 15 million quid.

[Letters]

Hang on, so now you do think Wenger is incompetent again? :blink:

[Power n Glory]

Zaha obviously should chose anyone but Wenger as a manager, but as a selfish Arsenal fan, I'd rather have someone like him with pace and ability in the team. When I say pace and ability, I dont want to show that he is some amazing great player but when you compare him with the shower of shite we have, he seems like Messi at 15 million quid.

Ox looked like he was going to be an amazing player! He has pace and ability. Unfortunately, he also has Wenger.

Most of the players I mentioned have pace and ability. First seasons for the all of those guys that played with the first team looked like they were going to be great.

[Kano]

If Zaha is 15 million quid, then we should absolutely go in for him. He is at least 5 million times better than Theo.

:lol: absolutely no way, if it is down to a straight shoot out between the two, I'd take Feo every time.

Zaha's end product is absolutely awful and it's saying something that even last season Feo produced more end product and in less PL games.

Zaha is yet another of those overrated, overhyped and overpriced English players that recieve plaudits because they can control a football occasionally.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

:lol: absolutely no way, if it is down to a straight shoot out between the two, I'd take Feo every time.

Zaha's end product is absolutely awful and it's saying something that even last season Feo produced more end product and in less games.

Zaha is yet another of those overrated, overhyped and overpriced English players that recieve plaudits because they can control a football occasionally.

Hmmm i think they are both much of a muchness all pace and not a lot else, Walcott is fine as long as he doesn't have time to think.

Ox has much better link up play, better technical ability and strength.

[Power n Glory]

Hang on, so now you do think Wenger is incompetent again? :blink:

Hang on, are you about to defend Wenger again? :lol: I'm shocked.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Hang on, so now you do think Wenger is incompetent again? :blink:

Well if the Jury is out now, i don't think it will be if he loses out on this to Everton

[Marc Overmars]

Bravo signs for City.

The outpouring of grief for Hart is hilarious. He's been erratic for years now.

[Kano]

Hmmm i think they are both much of a muchness all pace and not a lot else, Walcott is fine as long as he doesn't have time to think.

Ox has much better link up play, better technical ability and strength.

Feo at least has a history of scoring and getting assists at Zaha's age, no matter how infuriating the guy has been over the ten years. Zaha has yet to prove he is worth playing beyond mid-table.

Ox has a big season in him I'm sure but avoiding injuries and regular playing time is crucial. He has the potential (:rolleyes:) to be better than both of those two.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Bravo signs for City.

The outpouring of grief for Hart is hilarious. He's been erratic for years now.

Friend of mine who is a city fan was going on this morning that Guardiola hadn't given him time to fit into his style of play

I replied to her that he was a goalkeeper he didn't need to fit into a style of play, he just had to stop letting in so many goals at his near post...something he seems frankly incapable of.

[Kano]

Bravo signs for City.

The outpouring of grief for Hart is hilarious. He's been erratic for years now.

Hilarious to think of his options now.

Not us, Utd, Chavs or Spuds. Liverpool and Everton are his next best bet.

[Letters]

Hang on, are you about to defend Wenger again? :lol: I'm shocked.

Where did I do that? :)

[Power n Glory]

Where did I do that? :)

Wenger's time is up. He hasn't done well to keep us in the top 4 and against better managers, he's about to get exposed.

[fakeyank]

:lol: absolutely no way, if it is down to a straight shoot out between the two, I'd take Feo every time.

Zaha's end product is absolutely awful and it's saying something that even last season Feo produced more end product and in less PL games.

Zaha is yet another of those overrated, overhyped and overpriced English players that recieve plaudits because they can control a football occasionally.

I look at Wilfred Zaha and think that he is 23 and has the potential to develop finishing skills. Plus his ball control is miles better than Theo and works hard for the team as well. When comparing finishing, Theo is better but overall Theo is nowhere near Zaha... again, that doesnt say much about Zaha because Theo is so shit.

Plus at 15 million quid, he seems right about the price range we can afford after not paying the 600 people's salary for a couple of weeks.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Apparently the bid for Lucas has hit trouble because we want to pay in two installements whereas Deportovio are demanding the fee upfront in one go.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3758425/Arsenal-s-16-9m-bid-Lucas-Perez-deemed-unacceptable-Deportivo-La-Coruna.html


Arsenal have been told that the structure of their £16.9million bid for Lucas Perez is 'unacceptable'.
Arsenal want to pay the 27-year-old striker's buyout clause in two instalments but his club Deportivo want the fee in one payment.
The impasse will give Everton hope in their pursuit of the player but it is understood Lucas's preference is to join Arsenal owing to the prospect of playing Champions League football.


:doh:

Our cheapness :doh:

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Wenger's time is up. He hasn't done well to keep us in the top 4 and against better managers, he's about to get exposed.

I actually think up to a point he has, yes at the same time he showed he was unable to push us on. But up to about four years ago i think it was a struggle for arsenal getting in the top four.

[AFC Leveller]

Bravo signs for City.

The outpouring of grief for Hart is hilarious. He's been erratic for years now.

He is error prone, serves him right the arrogant prick.

Was at fault for nearly all ofthe goals England conceded at the euros

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Apparently the bid for Lucas has hit trouble because we want to pay in two installements whereas Deportovio are demanding the fee upfront in one go.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3758425/Arsenal-s-16-9m-bid-Lucas-Perez-deemed-unacceptable-Deportivo-La-Coruna.html



:doh:

Our cheapness :doh:

In fairness, very few transfer fees are paid all up front certainly not anything above 15million

[Letters]

In fairness, very few transfer fees are paid all up front certainly not anything above 15million

STOP DEFENDING EVERYTHING WENGER DOES!

:fury:



Am I doing this right? :unsure:

[Özim]

I just don't rate the guy as a manager, he's probably the only manager I've ever seen who doesn't prioritise winning and hails failure as a massive feat.

Back to the Perez guy though, being an Arsenal fan is now all about disappointment, disappointment in the league, disapointment in the CL, disappointment in the big games, disappointment in the transfer market, starting to face the reality that we might never be challenging for the big prizes again as this club is rife with greed, pompousness and lies.

Without wanting to slate Perez, this signing would be a massive disappointment and proof we never learn from our mistakes, yes he could be a big hit, score lots of goals and wow us, but let's be honest it's pretty unlikely, more likely he'll be a middle of the road guy who'll score the odd goal here and there, most of the top talents are discovered at his age (28).

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Apparently the bid for Lucas has hit trouble because we want to pay in two installements whereas Deportovio are demanding the fee upfront in one go.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3758425/Arsenal-s-16-9m-bid-Lucas-Perez-deemed-unacceptable-Deportivo-La-Coruna.html



:doh:

Our cheapness :doh:

Please can we just pay the money..............

[AFC Leveller]

According to Spanish media outlet Cadena Ser, Deportivo La Coruna have this morning rejected Arsenal’s bid of €20m (£17m) for 27-year-old forward Lucas Perez.

The former PAOK forward has a €20m release clause in his contract but Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger reportedly offered Deportivo the money in two instalments.

Lucas Perez scored 17 La Liga goals last season and would be brought in to provide competition for Olivier Giroud. Wenger just needs to stump up the cash…

[Letters]

I just don't rate the guy as a manager
You're shitting me!
Why didn't you say something before now?

[Marc Overmars]

Come to think of it, I don't think Spanish strikers have fared too well over here. Torres is probably the best one but he fell off a cliff, I suppose there is Costa but he is far from your ordinary Spanish forward. Soldado? Michu? Anyone else you can think of?

Hope this guy knows what to expect from the PL, as technically great as La Liga is, it's apples and oranges when comparing it to the shit kicking of the PL.

Though as TEG mentioned earlier, the fact Koeman wants him should be encouraging as his recruitment since he's been here has been decent.

[Power n Glory]

That's one of the reasons Wenger is a laughing stock. He's all qualiteeee this and qualitieeee that, oh we can't sign that expensive player unless he brings more qualiteeee. Shove a pile of barrel scrapings at him though and fuck quality, he's in there in a flash with his penny purse at the ready. I think we're supposed to be fooled by it all. When you start bringing together all the aspects of this summer, the statements from the club and the manager, the laughable financial claims being made, the dithering and fucking around, the negligent and probably already terminal start to the season, the continuing two fingered salute to the fans and anyone else who dares ask question - you can really start to see that this club is run by scum and managed by a deeply dishonest, deceitful and devious individual. I don't know what's happened to the bloke. Filth like Kronke, you expect it. Wenger used to be a totally different guy though. Now look at him. Up to his neck in it.

Yeah, I can expect it from someone like Kroenke. He's not unique to football as an owner. But as a manager, Arsene Wenger is an anomaly to the game. There have been terrible owners in football and we have seen worse structures but never have we seen a manager not strive for more even under the poor conditions set out for them.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

If Zaha is 15 million quid, then we should absolutely go in for him. He is at least 5 million times better than Theo.

Trust me he really isn't. Palace are my local team so I always make an effort to watch as much of them as I can and he's completely pants. Just pure brainless as a footballer. Consistently makes the wrong option and isn't able to make use of his physical attributes

He makes Theo look like Muller in terms of football intelligence and I speak as someone who thinks that Theo is crap and we need to get rid.

[Özim]

You're shitting me!
Why didn't you say something before now?

I didn't want to upset you.

[Letters]

:lol: How considerate :tiphat:

[Marc Overmars]

Southampton to sign Sofiane Boufal for 21m. Who?

[Power n Glory]

Come to think of it, I don't think Spanish strikers have fared too well over here. Torres is probably the best one but he fell off a cliff, I suppose there is Costa but he is far from your ordinary Spanish forward. Soldado? Michu? Anyone else you can think of?

Hope this guy knows what to expect from the PL, as technically great as La Liga is, it's apples and oranges when comparing it to the shit kicking of the PL.

Though as TEG mentioned earlier, the fact Koeman wants him should be encouraging as his recruitment since he's been here has been decent.

Spain hardly produce great strikers. It reflects in the national team. Raul, David Villa and Torres were great but all the rest you mentioned just weren't good enough. It's one of those things in football.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

In fairness, very few transfer fees are paid all up front certainly not anything above 15million

17 million is a drop in the ocean compared to the figures being trotted out these days and certainly our supposed cash reserves.

It's just baffling that we'd continue to dither about with this transfer and risk losing out to Everton who are sniffing about and ready to pounce on any delay rather than just get it done and over the line, especially considering how we've missed out on two transfers already this summer (Mkhitrayan and Vardy) and how desperate we are to fill this position in with a body.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Spain hardly produce great strikers. It reflects in the national team. Raul, David Villa and Torres were great but all the rest you mentioned just weren't good enough. It's one of those things in football.

last four years the national team seems to often play without a striker

the out and out striker doesn't seem to be prolific full stop in the modern game, maybe people tried to copy Spain's method to get success

Messi and Ronaldo who have been having their own personal duel in la liga the last five years, neither are strikers in the conventional sense.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

17 million is a drop in the ocean compared to the figures being trotted out these days and certainly our supposed cash reserves.

It's just baffling that we'd continue to dither about with this transfer and risk losing out to Everton who are sniffing about and ready to pounce on any delay rather than just get it done and over the line, especially considering how we've missed out on two transfers already this summer (Mkhitrayan and Vardy) and how desperate we are to fill this position in with a body.

You could be right, my point is more is that we offered it as a structured payment because that's usually how we do it. If we flatly refuse to pay the money up front than i would agree with you.

[Özim]

last four years the national team seems to often play without a striker

the out and out striker doesn't seem to be prolific full stop in the modern game, maybe people tried to copy Spain's method to get success

Messi and Ronaldo who have been having their own personal duel in la liga the last five years, neither are strikers in the conventional sense.

I'd consider Messi and Ronaldo as forwards but because of their talent they can play in different areas, but these clubs also have Neymar and Benzema.

It's not true that an out and out striker isn't prolific there are plenty of example that have been at some point or other in the right system, Cavani, Falcao, Aguero, Suarez etc

The Spanish model only worked when they had exceptional players everywhere else in the team, it doesn't work now and they are crying out for a decent striker.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I'd consider Messi and Ronaldo as forwards but because of their talent they can play in different areas, but these clubs also have Neymar and Benzema.

It's not true that an out and out striker isn't prolific there are plenty of example that have been at some point or other in the right system, Cavani, Falcao, Aguero, Suarez etc

The Spanish model only worked when they had exceptional players everywhere else in the team, it doesn't work now and they are crying out for a decent striker.

they are forwards....but they are not strikers

[Kano]

I look at Wilfred Zaha and think that he is 23 and has the potential to develop finishing skills. Plus his ball control is miles better than Theo and works hard for the team as well. When comparing finishing, Theo is better but overall Theo is nowhere near Zaha... again, that doesnt say much about Zaha because Theo is so shit.

Plus at 15 million quid, he seems right about the price range we can afford after not paying the 600 people's salary for a couple of weeks.

Typical English signing. Runs around a lot and not much else. Can't score and can't provide an assist. Theo at the very least was managing that at the same age. Zaha is yet another in a never ending line of English players that could've been the next Messi but ended up being Titus Bramble.

[Master Splinter]

Zaha is genuinely shit.

[Keith]

Yay, we've signed an unknown

[Kano]

Apparently the bid for Lucas has hit trouble because we want to pay in two installements whereas Deportovio are demanding the fee upfront in one go.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-3758425/Arsenal-s-16-9m-bid-Lucas-Perez-deemed-unacceptable-Deportivo-La-Coruna.html



:doh:

Our cheapness :doh:

Yes but that was back then, now we're paying in one sum, all these hours later.

The media :haha:

[Master Splinter]

It's almost as if they make stuff up every ten minutes because they know fuckwits will refresh and digest every single morsel of shit, hence giving them and their masters never-ending clicks and attention.

[Power n Glory]

I'd consider Messi and Ronaldo as forwards but because of their talent they can play in different areas, but these clubs also have Neymar and Benzema.

It's not true that an out and out striker isn't prolific there are plenty of example that have been at some point or other in the right system, Cavani, Falcao, Aguero, Suarez etc

The Spanish model only worked when they had exceptional players everywhere else in the team, it doesn't work now and they are crying out for a decent striker.

Spain and Germany need strikers. That was evident from the Euros. The games moving in the direction of the counter attack.

[milla]

It's almost as if they make stuff up every ten minutes because they know fuckwits will refresh and digest every single morsel of shit, hence giving them and their masters never-ending clicks and attention.

These days, every single click worth like a gold coin. Ka-ching!!! :coffee:

[Kano]

Ornstein seems to be saying we've wrapped up Perez and agreed £35m for Mustafi :lol:

If true, we've been Marsellus Wallace'd

[Kano]

Which would be around £90m committed to these transfers in fees alone.

Fair play. But too late.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

WUMger is King of the Trolls.

Wallace. :lol:

Where is he?

[Marc Overmars]

Xhaka, Mustafi, Perez.

That's us done, seemingly.

Happy or not?

[Kano]

Most of our budget has been spent, which is a good thing in a sense.

The timing is awful.

Xhaka - good. Mustafi - not sure. As one of our most expensive players ever, the pressure is on straight away, regardless of the inflated market. Perez - a little bit meh but hopefully he comes good.

Overall - ok.

No choice but to get behind them and hope for the best.

[KSE Comedy Club]

Most of our budget has been spent, which is a good thing in a sense.

The timing is awful.

Xhaka - good. Mustafi - not sure. As one of our most expensive players ever, the pressure is on straight away, regardless of the inflated market. Perez - a little bit meh but hopefully he comes good.

Overall - ok.

No choice but to get behind them and hope for the best.very much agree with all of this.

The club is its own worst enemy, every summer.

[Marc Overmars]

Big expectation on Xhaka and Mustafi you'd think, if they turn out to be duds then Wenger shouldn't really be given another penny to spend. Perez seems like a bit of a punt really, we've left it far too late to bring in anyone significant up front but hopefully he's alright. After seeing how Lacazette has started the season though, must admit I'm a little gutted we didn't push the boat out for him.

[Goonermerree]

Must be true, Sky says so. Perez to have a medical and Arsenal are in advanced negotiations with Valencia for Mustafi.

[Goonermerree]

Big expectation on Xhaka and Mustafi you'd think, if they turn out to be duds then Wenger shouldn't really be given another penny to spend. Perez seems like a bit of a punt really, we've left it far too late to bring in anyone significant up front but hopefully he's alright. After seeing how Lacazette has started the season though, must admit I'm a little gutted we didn't push the boat out for him.

I agree

[Power n Glory]

Xhaka, Mustafi, Perez.

That's us done, seemingly.

Happy or not?

Better late than never. Just wondering what happened behind the scenes to force the issue?

[Marc Overmars]

Better late than never. Just wondering what happened behind the scenes to force the issue?

The toxic atmosphere wasn't worth the risk. This should be enough to see us through to Christmas where we will pretend to be challengers. Then when Spring comes...

[fakeyank]

Meh

[Goonermerree]

Mm, just seen some Youtube footage of Perez. He doesn't seem to have much pace, nor is he nimble on his feet. He scored a good goal from outside the box -oops - but only scored three in nearly 4 minutes of footage!

Edit. Sky have just put up three goals that he scored last season, two of them good, one excellent!

[Kano]

Sid Lowe seems to think he is quite an efficient player, quite accurate and doesn't need many chances to score. I'd take his word over YT.

[selassie]

Big expectation on Xhaka and Mustafi you'd think, if they turn out to be duds then Wenger shouldn't really be given another penny to spend. Perez seems like a bit of a punt really, we've left it far too late to bring in anyone significant up front but hopefully he's alright. After seeing how Lacazette has started the season though, must admit I'm a little gutted we didn't push the boat out for him.

Agreed, i'm quite happy with Xhaka and Mustafi, they are about as good as we're going to get in either position and should be bonafide starters once they hit the ground running, assuming they do. The jury is out on Perez, I agree he seems like a Punt, squad level material.

I gotta say, the bitterness coming off the Everton forum (Grandoleteam forum) about Perez choosing us over them is quite a read. Jumped up scouse wankers on that forum laughing about us only being a top 4 side, we might not be great but we're a damn sight better than those jumped up scout twats.

[GP]

https://i.imgur.com/ONxh2UE.png

[Niall_Quinn]

Xhaka, Mustafi, Perez.

That's us done, seemingly.

Happy or not?

Two of these are not done and I'd rate chances 50/50 in a generous mood. Xhaka, good player. But Wenger needs to change everything about the way we play the game to utilise his potential. Stick Xhaka in the middle tip, tapping it around and what's the point? Arteta rebooted. Arteta was also a good player but wasted under Wenger.

Mustafi? No idea really. But again, even if he's a world beater, Wenger needs to change everything about the way we defend if he's to utilise this player and not leave him as another Kos. Kos is a very good defender who could be even better in an organised back five. Instead he's our Alert 5, rapid response, two places at the same time, just leave the glass broken guy. He has to be because of Wenger's love of leaving us so desperately exposed on the flanks. Perez? Not a clue. But he looks to have a bit of pace, a bit of technique and a desire to be direct. So why he's coming here I just don't know. What could be use him for? Retrieving the ball for throw-ins? Again, Wenger will have to change everything about the way we attack if we are to make use of this guy. If he wants to turn him into another, no idea where I'm supposed to play boss, forward, have him maybe drifting here, dropping there, floating over there, standing on Alexis' toes one minute and blocking Theo's shot with his arse after a 105 move, one touch pinball extravaganza that somehow come off then forget it, just get Sanogo. At least nobody knows what he's doing, including himself.

So at any other team, not bad. But here, it all depends on one man.

[Kano]

https://i.imgur.com/ONxh2UE.png

Strangers :bow:

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

If Zaha is 15 million quid, then we should absolutely go in for him. He is at least 5 million times better than Theo.

I've actually played with better dribblers than Walcott in South London local parks..... doesn't mean they will ever play for the Arsenal. Honestly! The stick he gets at times!

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

So what number is Lucas on the list?

Number 9 if you believe rumours. That's number 9 on the list of striker targets not a number 9 as in where he plays.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Isn't number 9 the cursed number for us? Jeffers, Reyes, Baptista, Eduardo, Park, Podolski ............ not really since Anelka had we had a great player wear it and even he barely lasted.

We really should just retire the number tbh.

[Globalgunner]

I've actually played with better dribblers than Walcott in South London local parks..... doesn't mean they will ever play for the Arsenal. Honestly! The stick he gets at times!

Deserved stick. The boy is a waste of space. 12 years a dud.

[Chippy]

Must be true, Sky says so. Perez to have a medical and Arsenal are in advanced negotiations with Valencia for Mustafi.

Mustafi is the most important signing because we only have one decent centre back and that's Kos. The rest are championship level in my opinion.

[Kano]

I've actually played with better dribblers than Walcott in South London local parks..... doesn't mean they will ever play for the Arsenal. Honestly! The stick he gets at times!

That's probably because half the bloody parks round here run down hill <_<

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Mustafi fee agreed with Valencia according to David Ornstein

Both Mustafi and Perez due in for medicals today. Probably both deals likely to be concluded and announced by beginning of next week.

[Özim]

Meh

That's how I feel to be honest, none of the players we've signed or are going to sign make me feel particularly excited.

I think it's the lack of a top quality goalscorer or even someone with a proven goal record, would get excited if we'd signed someone who has proved he can score goals consistently (i.e. like Lacazette).

[Özim]

Sid Lowe seems to think he is quite an efficient player, quite accurate and doesn't need many chances to score. I'd take his word over YT.

Who?

[Kano]

British journalist in Spain with a lot more knowledge than any of us.

[Gooner23]

Mustafi fee agreed with Valencia according to David Ornstein

Both Mustafi and Perez due in for medicals today. Probably both deals likely to be concluded and announced by beginning of next week.

Does that mean we wont have to endure the shit fest that is deadline day? For that alone I am grateful we appear to be getting these deals done.

[Xhaka Can’t]

It is difficult with Giroud though, when you see him at matches, and not just the tv camera following the ball, I've seen him not move for a ball unless it was within 2 metres of him. I think Walcott has got to a point where he just tries too hard.

Not true, he is always moving.

Like the hour hand of a clock.

[Goonermerree]

According to Wenger, it's been a strange transfer market as not a lot has happened! Pogba, Zlatan, City have bought payers, Chelsea have bought players. I don't think Wenger watches the same telly as me.

[Xhaka Can’t]

According to Wenger, it's been a strange transfer market as not a lot has happened! Pogba, Zlatan, City have bought payers, Chelsea have bought players. I don't think Wenger watches the same telly as me.

He probably listens on the wireless.

[Goonermerree]

He probably listens on the wireless.

Nah, probably smoke signals, why it takes him so long to buy anyone, they've retired by the time he gets to it.

[AFC Leveller]

GUILLEM SAYS

Someone who scores 17 goals in La Liga should be considered a top signing, especially when you consider he did that at Deportivo. He's fast, has a powerful shot with his left foot, he's clever and has been abroad already (Ukraine and Greece) which straight away makes him different to other Spanish strikers that struggled in the past. He can play as a number nine or more likely on the right hand side of attack. By the way, Arsenal wanted Lacazette as their main striker, but when Lyon asked for €55m they looked somewhere else. They had been following Perez for a year. His father has got an octopus stand in Camden market, so more reasons for him to come to London.

[Niall_Quinn]

According to Wenger, it's been a strange transfer market as not a lot has happened! Pogba, Zlatan, City have bought payers, Chelsea have bought players. I don't think Wenger watches the same telly as me.

We have deadline day to come yet. This is likely to be the biggest transfer window ever. So Wenger is correct, it is very strange if he thinks nothing has happened.

[Özim]

Maybe next summer we can get rid of Walcott, Giroud and Sanogo and sign Lacazette.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

never had a problem with Giroud to be honest, only ever had a problem with him being our first choice striker. As a squad striker his scoring stats are fairly good....it's just not the kind of stats you want to be relying on.

[Özim]

Mustafi - Happy about
Xhaka - Not fussed about, wouldn't have signed him personally
Perez - On the fence, hope he turns out good, but a gamble

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Mustafi - Happy about
Xhaka - Not fussed about, wouldn't have signed him personally
Perez - On the fence, hope he turns out good, but a gamble

Happy about?.....never seen those words lumped together from you

[Özim]

never had a problem with Giroud to be honest, only ever had a problem with him being our first choice striker. As a squad striker his scoring stats are fairly good....it's just not the kind of stats you want to be relying on.

I think he's still 1st choice, Perez is a winger by all intents and purposes other than his season up front last season. I don't know anything about Perez so I'm hopeful, he's hopefully something a bit different who can score goals, it's a gamble again though because in reality he's totally unproven and looking at what that Deportivo fan says goals wise could be a one season wonder, in a way I'd have felt more comfortable if we'd signed someone with a few seasons scoring goals as it shows they can do it consistently at least.

[Özim]

Happy about?.....never seen those words lumped together from you

:lol: He's youngish, plays for Germany (doesn't always mean you're good, just look at Mertesacker, but this guy isn't as slow as a snail) so this could potentially mean he can be aroud for quite a while and can still improve.

[bignev]

never had a problem with Giroud to be honest, only ever had a problem with him being our first choice striker. As a squad striker his scoring stats are fairly good....it's just not the kind of stats you want to be relying on.

You speak sense.

[fakeyank]

I've actually played with better dribblers than Walcott in South London local parks..... doesn't mean they will ever play for the Arsenal. Honestly! The stick he gets at times!

Other than his pace and making good runs (when he looks bothered), Theo has absolutely nothing going for him. Frankly your dribblers in South London just werent lucky enough. I watch better players in MLS every week than Theo... forget that, I watch better players than Theodore in my pick up games.

[Letters]

And yet all these brilliant players you keep seeing have somehow been missed by the numerous scouting networks at every major club.
Weird that.

[KSE Comedy Club]

I have to say that provided both these players go through ok, I am satisfied and have some interest in the season again.

It might seem fickle but (apart from wengers head) all I wanted was for us to sign a CB and a CF before the window closed.

Seems like we have at least got decent players in whilst not being world star names. The main thing is I can get behind them and hope they do well :good:

[Marc Overmars]

Asano loaned to Stuttgart. :lol:

[hobson's choice]

The toxic atmosphere wasn't worth the risk. This should be enough to see us through to Christmas where we will pretend to be challengers. Then when Spring comes...


We not gonna win, but i do genuinely believe we can challenge, just on the basis, that City, United, and Chelsea really aren't all that either, they all have weaknesses.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Asano loaned to Stuttgart. :lol:

how does that work?.....how comes he can't get a work permit here but he can for another european country?

[The Emirates Gallactico]

how does that work?.....how comes he can't get a work permit here but he can for another european country?

Yeah we're a lot stricter about issuing work permits to non-Eu residents (and soon to be EU residents thanks to Brexit) than our continental neighbours.

#FarageLegacy
#KickEmOut
#BritishJobsforBritishWorkers

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Yeah we're a lot stricter about issuing work permits to non-Eu residents (and soon to be EU residents thanks to Brexit) than our continental neighbours.

#FarageLegacy
#KickEmOut
#BritishJobsforBritishWorkers

Ah you see i thought it was only Spain who allowed a bit more leeway for players from central and south America by way of apology for the horrible things their ancestors did on the continent.

[Master Splinter]

how does that work?.....how comes he can't get a work permit here but he can for another european country?

As well you know, it is because he did not cost £55 million.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Can't make much of Perez as I've never seen him play a little bemused we are getting a player so far down from the pecking order. Still....we've addressed the issue in two positions and I really want veto get behind them even if I do question the managers mean methods.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

So what happened to Johnny madness anyway....

[Kano]

On a night boat to Cairo last I heard

[GP]

Wenger confirms the 2 signings.

[Master Splinter]

Why is he confirming signings when he should be signing players?

£8m cunt.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Suppose that's us done.... never thought I'd see the day Wenger would spend 35 million big ones on a defender.

[Marc Overmars]

Crazy money but a sign of the times I guess. You can't expect to sign the best players without digging deep and it's good that WUMger has abandoned his principles on this occasion. He would have left himself open to all kinds of ridicule had we not towed the line with Valencia.

[AFC Leveller]

Not been linked to Kalou this window, something cant be right.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Oh the irony......we weren't willing to spend 32 mill on Higuain who is now worth 2.5 times that, but here we are paying MORE than that for a defender I'd only just seen play this summer!

Not that I am complaining about Mustafi per se!

[Power n Glory]

Ashley Williams was also available at a reasonable price. I hope they know what they're doing and it's not a panic buy.

[AFC Leveller]

Ashley Williams was also available at a reasonable price. I hope they know what they're doing and it's not a panic buy.

Ashley Williams doesnt have a resale value, therefore he was never going to come here.

[Kano]

Worst of all, we won't be buying Jonny Evans.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Chambers on loan to Boro say SSN.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Given that Debauchy hasn't fucked off it's not surprising.

[Goonermerree]

Chambers on loan to Boro say SSN.

Chambers will be one of those youngsters who go out on loan never to return.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Chambers will be one of those youngsters who go out on loan never to return.

Reminds me, what the hell has happened to Jenkinson?

[Marc Overmars]

Obvious move really to send Chambers out. He needs to play regularly if he's going to iron out the inconsistencies in his game and gain some composure and confidence. He would have been heading for the scrap heap had he stayed with us this season.

[Goonermerree]

I can only guess that he's back with us but still injured.

[Goonermerree]

Obvious move really to send Chambers out. He needs to play regularly if he's going to iron out the inconsistencies in his game and gain some composure and confidence. He would have been heading for the scrap heap had he stayed with us this season.

He was ruined in that first season with us when he was thrown in at the deep end and lost confidence. He should have been out on loan ages ago.

[Marc Overmars]

Reminds me, what the hell has happened to Jenkinson?

He just started training with us again after recovering from his cruciate injury. He'll probably be sent out on loan again I would have thought. Well, he or Debuchy depending on who Wenger wants as Bellerin's back up.

[Kano]

I like Chambers, has looked better at times as CB but not played enough to build up his game and settle into one position. Hopefully he makes it back. If not, Holding is looking like a good replacement so far.

[Kano]

Hart heading off to Torino? :lol:

[Marc Overmars]

Wheelchair could be sent out on loan. :lol:

Unfortunately I don't see where he fits in really.

[Kano]

:rose:

[Marc Overmars]

Leicester in talks to spank £50m on Islam Slimani and Adrien Silva from Sporting Lisbon. :wacko:

[Kano]

Those Championship budget buys are certainly a thing of the past.

[Munchies]

Wheelchair :(

Proper lad but hopefully he can have a whole season under his belt. Won't get games here

[fakeyank]

About time we got rid of the crock. Best decision Wenger has taken in a decade! :bow:

[Niall_Quinn]

Wheelchair could be sent out on loan. :lol:

Unfortunately I don't see where he fits in really.

Who pays his medical bills if he's on loan? Surely nobody is going to take on such a huge investment?

[BOBN]

About time we got rid of the crock. Best decision Wenger has taken in a decade! :bow:

Right. But too bad he didn't flog him 2 years ago while folk still thought he was good. Needs to cut these write-offs off asap.

[Power n Glory]

Wheelchair hasn't helped himself but I think the staff have a lot to answer for when looking at his injury records. It's the same with Ramsey. Two young players with bad injury records because they always get rushed back to play. Ramsey was rushed back after the Euros for no reason and now he's out for a month.

A loan move away may be good for Wilshere.

[Özim]

About time we got rid of the crock. Best decision Wenger has taken in a decade! :bow:

Totally agree, overrated, injury prone rubbish, hopefully the beginning of the end of his time here, doesn't have the dedication to make it, to be sent out on loan at 24 after being a 1st teamer isn't a good sign, but then neither is picking up the ball and always running into a group of players or tackling badly and giving away free kicks in terrible areas.

Ta-rah :wave:

[Andreas_AFC]

Read recently that Serge Gnabry are going to Bayern Munich. Bayern give him on loan than to Werder Bremen. I dont understand why Arsenal sold him. What is your opinion about him?

[selassie]

Wheelchair hasn't helped himself but I think the staff have a lot to answer for when looking at his injury records. It's the same with Ramsey. Two young players with bad injury records because they always get rushed back to play. Ramsey was rushed back after the Euros for no reason and now he's out for a month.

A loan move away may be good for Wilshere.

Yep, he's linked to some decent Italian sides too, Juve being the pick of the bunch, then Roma and Torino, apparently West Ham are the team most interested in him in PL.

I think it would be good for him to go out on loan to get some regular minutes and build up his fitness. I'm not fussed where he goes TBH, Juve could be a great move for him assuming he gets games, I think he would improve the tactical side of his game out there and he would hopefully feature in CL too.

West Ham wouldn't be a bad move either.

As it stands he's no use to us, he could be if he keeps himself fit and builds up his confidence, I see him as the natural successor to Santi.

[Marc Overmars]

I think it's strange Gnabry hasn't been considered for the first team squad really. He looked really good a couple of seasons ago but it seems like now Wenger doesn't fancy him. I guess we have a lot of options in his position and he's not on big wages like Walcott, so he's easier to move on.

It would be disappointing though to see yet another promising young player shipped off after an encouraging start.

[Kano]

Read recently that Serge Gnabry are going to Bayern Munich. Bayern give him on loan than to Werder Bremen. I dont understand why Arsenal sold him. What is your opinion about him?

Remains to be seen how much is in that story given Wenger was very vocal about wanting to keep him last week. He is just potential at the moment, we've seen plenty of those over the years. He could turn out to be a player or another dope. No way of knowing until he gets some good minutes on the pitch. Look promising in patches before his injury and West Brom loan. Olympics he was great but level of football is lower. Has his work cut out getting into our side as it is. But if he hangs around for a few more months and the annual injury plague kicks in, he could strike gold.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Totally agree, overrated, injury prone rubbish, hopefully the beginning of the end of his time here, doesn't have the dedication to make it, to be sent out on loan at 24 after being a 1st teamer isn't a good sign, but then neither is picking up the ball and always running into a group of players or tackling badly and giving away free kicks in terrible areas.

Ta-rah :wave:

Can't believe I actually agree with you for once.

Jack can piss off afaic. Gone backwards in his development and not helped by consistently getting himself into trouble and onto the front pages of the rags (fights outside nightclubs, smoking x2 etc etc).


Read recently that Serge Gnabry are going to Bayern Munich. Bayern give him on loan than to Werder Bremen. I dont understand why Arsenal sold him. What is your opinion about him?

Had a few bad years with the injuries and the bad loan spell which has hampered his development but there's a potential world beater in there if he gets his head down. It's been ages but I do remember that he had a few bad habits as taking too much time with the ball and trying too much at times.

I don't for one minute believe the rumours coming from Germany about Bayern about to buy him. Wenger has already said that he wants to keep him and extend his contract ..... in fact the departure of Joel Campbell was probably to make room for him. He also counts as a homegrown player and after losing Chambers and probably Jack, we need him. 50 million or Bayern can fuck a duck tbh.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Remains to be seen how much is in that story given Wenger was very vocal about wanting to keep him last week. He is just potential at the moment, we've seen plenty of those over the years. He could turn out to be a player or another dope. No way of knowing until he gets some good minutes on the pitch. Look promising in patches before his injury and West Brom loan. Olympics he was great but level of football is lower. Has his work cut out getting into our side as it is. But if he hangs around for a few more months and the annual injury plague kicks in, he could strike gold.

I think the story is true, and Wenger saying how much he wants to keep him suggests that selling him to Bayern Munich is a result of Gnabry forcing the move with a year left on his contract.

[Kano]

I think the story is true, and Wenger saying how much he wants to keep him suggests that selling him to Bayern Munich is a result of Gnabry forcing the move with a year left on his contract.

That is true of course, Gnabry could easily of pushed for the move. Bayern is attractive but if he's going to get loaned straight out yet again, he is still playing in limbo, as he would with us.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

That is true of course, Gnabry could easily of pushed for the move. Bayern is attractive but if he's going to get loaned straight out yet again, he is still playing in limbo, as he would with us.

But if he performs with Bremen he has the chance of becoming a first team player for a club which is bigger and more illustrious than us.

[selassie]

I think the story is true, and Wenger saying how much he wants to keep him suggests that selling him to Bayern Munich is a result of Gnabry forcing the move with a year left on his contract.

Aye, that's how I see it too.

[Power n Glory]

Yep, he's linked to some decent Italian sides too, Juve being the pick of the bunch, then Roma and Torino, apparently West Ham are the team most interested in him in PL.

I think it would be good for him to go out on loan to get some regular minutes and build up his fitness. I'm not fussed where he goes TBH, Juve could be a great move for him assuming he gets games, I think he would improve the tactical side of his game out there and he would hopefully feature in CL too.

West Ham wouldn't be a bad move either.

As it stands he's no use to us, he could be if he keeps himself fit and builds up his confidence, I see him as the natural successor to Santi.

I think it would be good for him to go to Juve as well. May grow up a bit more but I doubt he'll go overseas. If he cuts out the over dribbling crap, he'd be a good player. I think messing around with his position as either a 10, CM and wide player hasn't helped his progress either.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I'm not entirely convinced this is to do with him getting first team football, let's face it Wilshere is a thug....he's the kind of person we'd avoid like the plague if he wasn't a footballer. We know Wenger will take the tough line if he thinks a player has disrespected him, and we know Wilshere has a history of poor behaviour off the pitch....would any of us be surprised if the little toerag kicked off at the training ground and is being punished for it.

[Power n Glory]

I'm not entirely convinced this is to do with him getting first team football, let's face it Wilshere is a thug....he's the kind of person we'd avoid like the plague if he wasn't a footballer. We know Wenger will take the tough line if he thinks a player has disrespected him, and we know Wilshere has a history of poor behaviour off the pitch....would any of us be surprised if the little toerag kicked off at the training ground and is being punished for it.

:lol: You don't know the guy! Thug? Cut the character assassination.

[Power n Glory]

I'll give Wenger some credit though, signing Elneny and Xhaka, loaning out Jack and purposely crocking Ramsey :lol: may mean he has finally taken out the weaker players that leave us looking disjointed in the midfield. The Ramsey and Wilshere combo was a disaster and neither player had a clue on how to work together. Both played as individuals and just did their own thing..

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

:lol: You don't know the guy! Thug? Cut the character assassination.

so he didn't spit at a taxi driver or get involved in pub brawls?

Plus I know people who know him from his younger days, the kind of person who likes starting fights with people.....has a party trick of smashing glass bottles over his head and threatening to glass other people.

And basically not to put too fine a point on it, a gak head.

The Wilshere family are well known in Stevenage for being a family of scum bags, like I say being a footballer with a lot of money doesn't stop him from being a turd.

[Kano]

He might be a dickhead as a person, I'm completely indifferent toward him, but banging on about something a guy did years ago and has never faced charges for is a bit rich. Young men make mistakes, shit happens. It shouldn't define them for life. And a pub brawl? Is that Daily Mail terminology or a real, hands down, full on fight with the place getting smashed up? My betting is on the former.

[Power n Glory]

so he didn't spit at a taxi driver or get involved in pub brawls?

Plus I know people who know him from his younger days, the kind of person who likes starting fights with people.....has a party trick of smashing glass bottles over his head and threatening to glass other people.

And basically not to put too fine a point on it, a gak head.

The Wilshere family are well known in Stevenage for being a family of scum bags, like I say being a footballer with a lot of money doesn't stop him from being a turd.

I don't know the guy. Neither do you. What's reported in could be sensationlised. Heck, some people deserve a glass in the face. :lol: But either way, don't start making stuff up about why he's being loaned out. :lol:

[Globalgunner]

HCZ often gets apoplectic with people he doesnt know. That DT chap on AFTV: He would use a Browning machine gun on him if he ever made the mistake of showing up uninvited to chez HCZ.

[Power n Glory]

HCZ often gets apoplectic with people he doesnt know. That DT chap on AFTV: He would use a Browning machine gun on him if he ever made the mistake of showing up uninvited to chez HCZ.

If you're working class and have tattoos, stay out HCZ's way. :lol:

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I don't know the guy. Neither do you. What's reported in could be sensationlised. Heck, some people deserve a glass in the face. :lol: But either way, don't start making stuff up about why he's being loaned out. :lol:

Again can't help but feel you are only defending him because he's an Arsenal footballer. Anyway i'm not making anything up, i'm merely speculating I'm not saying that it's the case...i'm just saying that to decide that he is going to loan him now seems a bit curious, it's not like we have had any midfield additions since May.

The people that I know aren't given to lying, and they are pretty uniform in their assessment of him as a thoroughly nasty piece of work from a scumbag family...and i don't see any evidence of him being a reformed character....I'm supposed to think he's a nice well balanced family man because he got some silly slip of a girl pregnant twice?.

[Letters]

I'll give Wenger some credit though
That's a banning :sulk:

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

If you're working class and have tattoos, stay out HCZ's way. :lol:

Why are you making it a class thing?.....not all working class people turn out to be uncultured tattoed chavvy scum like DT or Wilshere :lol:

Anyway I can't say too much, give me some jogging bottoms and an earring and i'd be no better....although my hair is short as a result of charity fund raising.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

I think it's strange Gnabry hasn't been considered for the first team squad really. He looked really good a couple of seasons ago but it seems like now Wenger doesn't fancy him. I guess we have a lot of options in his position and he's not on big wages like Walcott, so he's easier to move on.

It would be disappointing though to see yet another promising young player shipped off after an encouraging start.

Walcott's wages are like a hangman's noose around our necks.......need to ship him rather than Gnabs........would like to see him given a decent chance, although the arrival of Perez is going to have an effect on things, either he starts up front (which I can't see straight away) and Sanchez comes out wide (bye bye Theo) or he goes out wide and Sanchez stays where he is for time being (again bye bye Theo) - all of this bye bye Theo means Gnabs is left with not much to do - it is all really sad because Theo in my opinion deceives too much (he has good games and don't get me wrong I love it when he scores because I start thinking, come on Theo.....I knew you could do it it) but......those days are not as frequent as we would all like.......

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

HCZ often gets apoplectic with people he doesnt know. That DT chap on AFTV: He would use a Browning machine gun on him if he ever made the mistake of showing up uninvited to chez HCZ.

What kind of person do you think i am?.....the idea of bestowing violence upon another person is exactly the kind of thing i'm against......i'd have other people do it for me. :whistle:

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Walcott's wages are like a hangman's noose around our necks.......need to ship him rather than Gnabs........would like to see him given a decent chance, although the arrival of Perez is going to have an effect on things, either he starts up front (which I can't see straight away) and Sanchez comes out wide (bye bye Theo) or he goes out wide and Sanchez stays where he is for time being (again bye bye Theo) - all of this bye bye Theo means Gnabs is left with not much to do - it is all really sad because Theo in my opinion deceives too much (he has good games and don't get me wrong I love it when he scores because I start thinking, come on Theo.....I knew you could do it it) but......those days are not as frequent as we would all like.......

The problem is people want Gnabry, they don't want Walcott.

[selassie]

I think it would be good for him to go to Juve as well. May grow up a bit more but I doubt he'll go overseas. If he cuts out the over dribbling crap, he'd be a good player. I think messing around with his position as either a 10, CM and wide player hasn't helped his progress either.

Aye, I think if he does go out on loan then West Ham it is.

I like Jack as a player, there is a lot to work with and he has already shown signs of huge potential. We should stick with him if he can stay fit and perform for a season elsewhere.

I totally agree with you regarding his position, Wenger has moved him about all over the place, it does him absolutely no favours at all.

[Kano]

Walcott's wages are like a hangman's noose around our necks.......need to ship him rather than Gnabs........would like to see him given a decent chance, although the arrival of Perez is going to have an effect on things, either he starts up front (which I can't see straight away) and Sanchez comes out wide (bye bye Theo) or he goes out wide and Sanchez stays where he is for time being (again bye bye Theo) - all of this bye bye Theo means Gnabs is left with not much to do - it is all really sad because Theo in my opinion deceives too much (he has good games and don't get me wrong I love it when he scores because I start thinking, come on Theo.....I knew you could do it it) but......those days are not as frequent as we would all like.......
Feo shouldn't really make it into our strongest eleven but he has a place in the squad I think. What he earns I don't really care about - all the wages are ridiculous and the club can easily afford it. He will contribute with some goals and assists (one of each so far this season which is promising) but while Ox and Gnabry still have something left to prove, Alexis will go onto the left while Iwobi is out injured, then Feo it is for now. We could do with an upgrade out there but its not likely to happen by the looks of it. Despite winding almost everyone up, Feo can do 'a job' for the time being.

[Penguin]

I'm disappointed about Jack being loaned out, but only because he's an English academy product. As a player we wont miss him. I've lost faith in our youth development. Almost everyone we get our hands on gets stuck with the same problems. Injury prone, cant defend, no common sense, bad decision making, no/inconsistent end product. It's harder to think of someone who has come from our academy that DOESN'T have those traits :lol:

As for Gnabry I'm not too bothered in all honesty. I just don't see where the hype comes from. He's a good player but he doesn't stand out the way a real talent does.

[fakeyank]

The problem is people want Gnabry, they don't want Walcott.

Only people who have made 20000 substitutions in life can make that call of who to keep.

[Penguin]

Walcott's wages are like a hangman's noose around our necks.......need to ship him rather than Gnabs........would like to see him given a decent chance, although the arrival of Perez is going to have an effect on things, either he starts up front (which I can't see straight away) and Sanchez comes out wide (bye bye Theo) or he goes out wide and Sanchez stays where he is for time being (again bye bye Theo) - all of this bye bye Theo means Gnabs is left with not much to do - it is all really sad because Theo in my opinion deceives too much (he has good games and don't get me wrong I love it when he scores because I start thinking, come on Theo.....I knew you could do it it) but......those days are not as frequent as we would all like.......

I don't particularly rate Theo either but what he does give us is goals and runs behind the defence. Neither Gnabry, Ox or Iwobi will give us those.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I'm disappointed about Jack being loaned out, but only because he's an English academy product. As a player we wont miss him. I've lost faith in our youth development. Almost everyone we get our hands on gets stuck with the same problems. Injury prone, cant defend, no common sense, bad decision making, no/inconsistent end product. It's harder to think of someone who has come from our academy that DOESN'T have those traits :lol:

As for Gnabry I'm not too bothered in all honesty. I just don't see where the hype comes from. He's a good player but he doesn't stand out the way a real talent does.

Because i think we are in need of more quality in attacking wide positions, Ox and Walcott often just don't produce the goods. Far more aggrieved about losing Gnabry than Walcott, but I also still believe that it's Gnabry himself engineering the move....either he doesn't fancy his chances of first team football here or more likely he likes the idea of one day playing first team for Bayern Munich.

[Niall_Quinn]

I'm disappointed about Jack being loaned out, but only because he's an English academy product. As a player we wont miss him. I've lost faith in our youth development. Almost everyone we get our hands on gets stuck with the same problems. Injury prone, cant defend, no common sense, bad decision making, no/inconsistent end product. It's harder to think of someone who has come from our academy that DOESN'T have those traits :lol:

As for Gnabry I'm not too bothered in all honesty. I just don't see where the hype comes from. He's a good player but he doesn't stand out the way a real talent does.

I think you are describing a player who is managed very poorly. Jack will do well somewhere else I believe. Just like any of our players would do better under different management. Our style kills players. Too technical, too negative, no tempo. Once you have become accustomed to that style your abilities as a rounded footballer are sure to suffer. The effect is not permanent though, or so it seemed in Ramsey's case when he showed us during the Euros what a well rounded and effective player he can be. Hopefully the same will happen for Jack when he heads elsewhere. Maybe a year on loan and God willing that fool Wenger gone next season will see several players introduced back into the fold for a proper go at building a competitive squad.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I think you are describing a player who is managed very poorly. Jack will do well somewhere else I believe. Just like any of our players would do better under different management. Our style kills players. Too technical, too negative, no tempo. Once you have become accustomed to that style your abilities as a rounded footballer are sure to suffer. The effect is not permanent though, or so it seemed in Ramsey's case when he showed us during the Euros what a well rounded and effective player he can be. Hopefully the same will happen for Jack when he heads elsewhere. Maybe a year on loan and God willing that fool Wenger gone next season will see several players introduced back into the fold for a proper go at building a competitive squad.

I really don't know what you saw of Ramsey in the Euros that was that impressive, did you see a player with an improved first touch or an ability to pick out a pass first time without dithering?....because I didn't. His work rate was excellent i'd agree and i think that was what got that Wales side to the semis of an appallingly poor tournament (team work rate)
Wilshere at least i can see the talent even though as PnG rightly points out he has that irritating tendency to over dribble

I agree that Wenger is guilty of ruining the potential of a lot of otherwise top footballers, but I think the only responsibility he can take for Ramsey is playing him in the first place. If by some miracle we are in a position where we are challenging in the next month or so it will be because he has been kept out of the side so his slowness on the ball and lack of passing skill won't be a burden to us.

[Niall_Quinn]

I really don't know what you saw of Ramsey in the Euros that was that impressive, did you see a player with an improved first touch or an ability to pick out a pass first time without dithering?....because I didn't. His work rate was excellent i'd agree and i think that was what got that Wales side to the semis of an appallingly poor tournament (team work rate)
Wilshere at least i can see the talent even though as PnG rightly points out he has that irritating tendency to over dribble

I agree that Wenger is guilty of ruining the potential of a lot of otherwise top footballers, but I think the only responsibility he can take for Ramsey is playing him in the first place. If by some miracle we are in a position where we are challenging in the next month or so it will be because he has been kept out of the side so his slowness on the ball and lack of passing skill won't be a burden to us.

Ramsey was in the company of 10 other players whose sole aim was not possession. They also had purpose. He thrived in the environment and emerged as the best player in the tournament in my opinion (and the opinion of many others). His first touch, like the first touch of so many of our players, can be suspect when he's engaged in those mindless ping, pong, tip, tap progressions we favour at Arsenal. But put him in a normal environment and he's shown he's an excellent player. Wilshere is unfortunate that he's English and has been part of another pointless team that desperately tries to be something it clearly isn't. That will probably change under Fat Sam's stewardship, almost certainly for the better as how could it be worse?

[Kano]

Palace turn down a £21m bid for Zaha. He was never going to go for £15m :lol:

Remy to Palace on loan.

And Hart to Torino done :haha:

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Ramsey was in the company of 10 other players whose sole aim was not possession. They also had purpose. He thrived in the environment and emerged as the best player in the tournament in my opinion (and the opinion of many others). His first touch, like the first touch of so many of our players, can be suspect when he's engaged in those mindless ping, pong, tip, tap progressions we favour at Arsenal. But put him in a normal environment and he's shown he's an excellent player. Wilshere is unfortunate that he's English and has been part of another pointless team that desperately tries to be something it clearly isn't. That will probably change under Fat Sam's stewardship, almost certainly for the better as how could it be worse?



Don't get me wrong, we have indulged possession football and players who pass just for the sake of it....for all his brilliance at times....Fibreglass was extremely guilty of passing for the sake of passing, often habitually when there wasn't a pass to be made.

But what used to be said about Arsenal when we won major trophies was that we would be defending corners one moment and thirty seconds later we'd have the ball in the opposition net....that requires a speed and precision of passing that a player like Ramsey is just not capable of. It's why i have been so positive about the Xhaka signing when other people on this board have been skeptical, because this is a player who can take possession from deep and make that connection between defence and attack.

[Niall_Quinn]

Don't get me wrong, we have indulged possession football and players who pass just for the sake of it....for all his brilliance at times....Fibreglass was extremely guilty of passing for the sake of passing, often habitually when there wasn't a pass to be made.

But what used to be said about Arsenal when we won major trophies was that we would be defending corners one moment and thirty seconds later we'd have the ball in the opposition net....that requires a speed and precision of passing that a player like Ramsey is just not capable of. It's why i have been so positive about the Xhaka signing when other people on this board have been skeptical, because this is a player who can take possession from deep and make that connection between defence and attack.

I don't think many have been skeptical of Xhaka's ability. But I am deeply skeptical about the idiot we have in charge being able to use it for the purposes you outline. Fast, attacking football. The opposite of what the idiot demands. However, there were signs the idiot will allow us to play 45 minutes of some games this season. Whether that will make things even more infuriating as we match what is possible against what is delivered remains to be seen. Regardless, not all players are Henry and Pires. A good blend of attributes is what's required. For every Henry it's useful to have a Parlour or a Gilberto. Ramsey is a superb worker who can cover more ground in a game that most players. He's combative, willing to get stuck in, can hold the ball well when he's not expected to ping it 3 yards, 45 times in 60 seconds. He arrives in the box well. He works the wing well and is often involved in the key moments that produce goals, even if he doesn't get the direct assist. Avery good all-rounder entirely unsuited to tippy, tappy Wenger ComaBall but very compatible with the PL when used properly. And very good at the International level too, albeit perhaps because there has been a dramatic decline in the standard of players across the board.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I don't think many have been skeptical of Xhaka's ability. But I am deeply skeptical about the idiot we have in charge being able to use it for the purposes you outline. Fast, attacking football. The opposite of what the idiot demands. However, there were signs the idiot will allow us to play 45 minutes of some games this season. Whether that will make things even more infuriating as we match what is possible against what is delivered remains to be seen. Regardless, not all players are Henry and Pires. A good blend of attributes is what's required. For every Henry it's useful to have a Parlour or a Gilberto. Ramsey is a superb worker who can cover more ground in a game that most players. He's combative, willing to get stuck in, can hold the ball well when he's not expected to ping it 3 yards, 45 times in 60 seconds. He arrives in the box well. He works the wing well and is often involved in the key moments that produce goals, even if he doesn't get the direct assist. Avery good all-rounder entirely unsuited to tippy, tappy Wenger ComaBall but very compatible with the PL when used properly. And very good at the International level too, albeit perhaps because there has been a dramatic decline in the standard of players across the board.

We have Elneny and Coquelin for hard working midfielders, and like Parlour and Gilberto and unlike Ramsey they can tackle. Running around a lot doesn't make a player industrious in a useful way.

[Niall_Quinn]

We have Elneny and Coquelin for hard working midfielders, and like Parlour and Gilberto and unlike Ramsey they can tackle. Running around a lot doesn't make a player industrious in a useful way.

You just don't like the guy. If you can't see how well he played in the Euros then it's because you don't want to see. But he most certainly played well, to the point even the pundits paused their Balefest - and you have to be doing it better by a factor of 10 before that happens.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

You just don't like the guy. If you can't see how well he played in the Euros then it's because you don't want to see. But he most certainly played well, to the point even the pundits paused their Balefest - and you have to be doing it better by a factor of 10 before that happens.

I don't like the guy because i don't think he's particularly very good, I'm not disputing he had a good tournament, but even then I think this was more for work rate than technical ability. He will start big games and i think that will be problematic for us as he dwells on the ball too much and will get too easily dispossessed. I don't think he's a terrible player, I just don't think he's good enough for Arsenal....certainly not as a first teamer and when as i say we already have players in the squad who can put in the work rate you praise him for....it seems utterly pointless having him. When actually his name reputation which always totally outshines his ability would see him us bring in quite a bit of money for him, which we could put towards other areas of the squad if we are insistent on being very cautious with our spending.

Frankly he is one of many players we have held onto for far too long, in the hope that they will finally blossom and meet their potential. Ramsey was an outstanding performer three years ago when our football was at it's most slow and turgid, no width and no pace.....and now we have brought pace into the side he has been left behind.

[Niall_Quinn]

I don't like the guy because i don't think he's particularly very good, I'm not disputing he had a good tournament, but even then I think this was more for work rate than technical ability. He will start big games and i think that will be problematic for us as he dwells on the ball too much and will get too easily dispossessed. I don't think he's a terrible player, I just don't think he's good enough for Arsenal....certainly not as a first teamer and when as i say we already have players in the squad who can put in the work rate you praise him for....it seems utterly pointless having him. When actually his name reputation which always totally outshines his ability would see him us bring in quite a bit of money for him, which we could put towards other areas of the squad if we are insistent on being very cautious with our spending.

Frankly he is one of many players we have held onto for far too long, in the hope that they will finally blossom and meet their potential. Ramsey was an outstanding performer three years ago when our football was at it's most slow and turgid, no width and no pace.....and now we have brought pace into the side he has been left behind.

Come off it. Sell him to get money to improve the squad? We just spend £90mill on a collection of second-raters just to plug holes. The manager has no intention of improving the squad. If he did he's have had that 90 mill in his hand at the start of the window fighting with the big clubs for the signature of a top striker. Far more likely we'd sell Ramsey and bring in a considerably less accomplished replacement. And what's the point in talking about a settled 11 at Arsenal and who best suits that 11? We never have that. The only thing more certain than a seasonal collapse is the seasonal injury crisis. We'll need Ramsey, just as we'll need to call on all the players in the squad to get through. Hell, Wenger even used his hate target Campbell last season, so everyone will be required. And as a solid, reliable, willing member of the squad Ramsey is an excellent asset. And if somehow we get rid of the idiot in charge and bring in a manager, you'll see there is plenty to Ramsey's game. The same will be true for Ox. But not Theo though. Now there's a player with little prospect of ever delivering.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Come off it. Sell him to get money to improve the squad? We just spend £90mill on a collection of second-raters just to plug holes. The manager has no intention of improving the squad. If he did he's have had that 90 mill in his hand at the start of the window fighting with the big clubs for the signature of a top striker. Far more likely we'd sell Ramsey and bring in a considerably less accomplished replacement. And what's the point in talking about a settled 11 at Arsenal and who best suits that 11? We never have that. The only thing more certain than a seasonal collapse is the seasonal injury crisis. We'll need Ramsey, just as we'll need to call on all the players in the squad to get through. Hell, Wenger even used his hate target Campbell last season, so everyone will be required. And as a solid, reliable, willing member of the squad Ramsey is an excellent asset. And if somehow we get rid of the idiot in charge and bring in a manager, you'll see there is plenty to Ramsey's game. The same will be true for Ox. But not Theo though. Now there's a player with little prospect of ever delivering.

We all know there is a disparity between what the manager should do and what he does do. What i'm saying is putting myself in the manager's shoes, i'd have sold Ramsey and invested elsewhere.....

And I agree about Walcott, but whatever little prospect of him delivering there is even less prospect of getting rid of him because of the stupid contract we put him on.

[Marc Overmars]

Daily Mail reporting Palace are interested in Wheelchair. :lol:

[Globalgunner]

Daily Mail reporting Palace are interested in Wheelchair. :lol:

Why not. Its a loan and still a London club. If jack can get his head right and hisn body stays in one peice, it could be a good move. Keep Palace up and return a hero to take Cazorla s place.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Sky Sources say Chelsea have bid over £30 million for David Luiz.

:blink:

[Marc Overmars]

They must be pretty desperate for a CB. :wacko:

[GP]

:haha:

Why?

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Realised they made a terrible mistake.

In making this bid.

[Marc Overmars]

PL spending has now hit £1billion for this transfer window. :lol:

Madness.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Sky Sources say Chelsea have bid over £30 million for David Luiz.

:blink:

This has got to be an April's fool. :blink:

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Just Johnny madness left....

Come on Arsene.

[Niall_Quinn]

This has got to be an April's fool. :blink:

It's some sort of money laundering racket.

[Marc Overmars]

Isco has been told he can leave Madrid...

[Kano]

Isco has been told he can leave Madrid...

Good, we need a back up to Bellerin.

[Ernesto]

Good, we need a back up to Bellerin.

I thought we had Debuchy? In fact, it's one of the few areas we have strength in depth

[Keith]

Daily Mail reporting Palace are interested in Wheelchair. :lol:

As soon as I saw the loan was available, I thought he'd go to Palace or West Ham. It could be a great move for either party, he returns to a new contract and Santi ready to return to Spain or he fails and is sold on the cheap.

This loan is far better than the previous sale to Man City.

Gnarby, I feel should also be a loan as I rated him when he last got a run in the team but that was years ago. Guess some make it, some don't.

[Marc Overmars]

BREAKING: Sky sources: Jack Wilshere considering loan offers from Watford, Crystal Palace, AFC Bournemouth, Sporting Lisbon and Benfica.

:unsure:

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Isco is quality and I'd hate seeing him in a Chav or a Utd shirt but it's an area of the field we're already well stacked in.


BREAKING: Sky sources: Jack Wilshere considering loan offers from Watford, Crystal Palace, AFC Bournemouth, Sporting Lisbon and Benfica.

:unsure:

Hopefully he goes to Bournemouth given Howe's propensity to actually try and play football, though I suspect his head will be turned by Palace due to being able to stay in London.

[Thierrymon]

I'd be surprised if Isco went to united. Doesnt seem like a Mourinho type of player. I could see chavs getting him if they offload cesc.

I really rate him. Would love him at Arsenal.

[Marc Overmars]

Seems like Wheelchair has held talks with Palace and Bournemouth as they are his preferred choices.

[selassie]

Isco has been told he can leave Madrid...

Loan or permanent? I see the Spuds are quite heavily linked with him. :(

I rate him really highly, he looked an elite talent before Real ruined him.

[GP]

Not long until #Madness is revealed

[Marc Overmars]

Gnabry in talks with Werder Bremen.

The fee is reported to be around €5m. Bit of a steal really.

[Power n Glory]

Isco is quality and I'd hate seeing him in a Chav or a Utd shirt but it's an area of the field we're already well stacked in.



Hopefully he goes to Bournemouth given Howe's propensity to actually try and play football, though I suspect his head will be turned by Palace due to being able to stay in London.

Snap him up anyway. I usually disagree with play a central player wide but our options on the wings aren't great with Campbell being sent out on loan. Ozil hasn't signed a new deal and Cazorla is getting on a bit, Wilshere will be out on loan and probably crocked...we'll be short on attacking mid players pretty soon.

[Özim]

Gnabry in talks with Werder Bremen.

The fee is reported to be around €5m. Bit of a steal really.

5 million Euros these days is the equivalent of 10 pence 10 years ago, thought we could negotiate a better deal than that considering the amount we probably spent on his wages and development in the 5 years he was here.

Irony is we don't even want to sell him, so why we sell him so cheap I don't know, well I do it's because Wenger treats every player like it's his child.

We should have snapped a 10 million fee on him and if they wanted him they'd pay up, if not he'd stay.

[Letters]

:lol: Having to dig deep to find stuff to moan about today.

[Özim]

I didn't have to dig deep at all, pretty logical.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

I didn't have to dig deep at all, pretty logical.

Well it would be if you didn't factor in the 25 man squad rule where only a certain number of players - are under the age of 21 and have been developed by the club for X amount of years are exempt. There is a possibility that we couldn't register Gnabry to play in the premier league

[Power n Glory]

5 million Euros these days is the equivalent of 10 pence 10 years ago, thought we could negotiate a better deal than that considering the amount we probably spent on his wages and development in the 5 years he was here.

Irony is we don't even want to sell him, so why we sell him so cheap I don't know, well I do it's because Wenger treats every player like it's his child.

We should have snapped a 10 million fee on him and if they wanted him they'd pay up, if not he'd stay.

Are we selling? Why?

[Penguin]

£5m is nothing these days but he has 1 year left on his contract and has already decided to go. So it's either £5 now or nothing next year.

[Marc Overmars]

Bony off to Stoke. Should be a good signing for them if his stint at Swansea is anything to go by.

Roma interested in Wheelchair now. Chesney probably wants him so they can blaze up together.

[Penguin]

:lol:

[The Emirates Gallactico]

A year or nothing, 5 million is nothing considering the talent that Gnabry is and the price of footballers these days. I was expecting 10 million at least. Sane just went for close to 40 million and it's my opinion that there's nothing between Gnabry or Sane ..... obviously there are other factors at play (year left, injuries, bad two years etc) but it's still very low.

I'm hoping it's low because ala Carlos Vela, we've put a buyback clause in there.

[Kano]

Don't see the problem.

£5m for a totally unproven, 21-year old player in last year of contact. Pretty sure there will be other caveats added into the sale too. Probably spent a couple of mill on wages, double that back with the sale price, makes absolute sense.

[Penguin]

A year or nothing, 5 million is nothing considering the talent that Gnabry is and the price of footballers these days. I was expecting 10 million at least. Sane just went for close to 40 million and it's my opinion that there's nothing between Gnabry or Sane ..... obviously there are other factors at play (year left, injuries, bad two years etc) but it's still very low.

I'm hoping it's low because ala Carlos Vela, we've put a buyback clause in there.

Oh, I completely agree. The trouble is that the players hold all the cards with one year left. What can we do if we don't get a fair offer?

That's what's worrying about letting Sanchez & Ozil's contracts go down to their last years...

[Power n Glory]

Didn't we let Campbell go on loan just so Serge could have a run in the team?

We really don't have a lot of winger options.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

Didn't we let Campbell go on loan just so Serge could have a run in the team?

We really don't have a lot of winger options.

I think that was the assumption that was made, it seems perhaps now that this was to free up space in the squad for Mustafi and Perez.

I think we are fine in terms of numbers on the wing, just not necessarily in terms of quality.

[Goonermerree]

I'm being greedy and I know it won't happen, but I would love it if there was just one more good surprise before the window closes.

[Marc Overmars]

Leicester agree a 30m fee for Slimani. :lol:

[I am invisible]

Didn't we let Campbell go on loan just so Serge could have a run in the team?

We really don't have a lot of winger options.

Could be clearing the decks for The Jeff to feature more, or maybe even freeing up some senior squad space for someone like Chris Willock, who Wenger seems to rate highly?