End of Year England Assessment...

morning roaders!

slightly delayed in my post due to time constraints, oh and well there is SOD ALL really to write about in any meaningful way. The resumption of domestic action can't come soon enough.


onwards....

Tuesday saw the final chance for England to show their wares for preparation for Ukraine/Poland in June. In fact, there is only one more friendly (due to be Holland) before the Euros start. Food for thought then. What better time for England to inflict a first defeat on world champions Spain in 15 years. Not much of a stat perhaps since the two nations have only met twice before in that period, including the infamous monkey chanting episode at the Bernabeu in 2005. The other friendly included ending a rather more - statistically impressive - 43 year hoodoo against Sweden at Wembley.

so how did everyone do?

We have to begin by commending what was, In my view, the best English defensive performance, perhaps not in my lifetime, but certainly since the turn of the millennium. England, in these recession hit times just don't do defensive performances, mainly due to the Dads Army brigade of Ferdinand, Terry and James.

These boys on the Wembley pitch showed unity, compactness and just good old bulldog spirit the likes of Walker, Parker and Pearce (watching on from the dugout) would have been proud of. Two performances in particular stood out more than others.

Its not often I am able to wax lyrical albeit freely and happily about a Spurs player. But Scotty Parker in the England midfield is just a revelation. Everybody knows he works hard, but what is refreshing to see is he really busts a gut for the shirt; THE ENGLAND SHIRT. messrs Barnes, in fact, most players who have international caps to their name, hang your heads in shame....

During the 85 minutes he played on Saturday evening he kept Xavi and Iniesta always occupied and they were almost never out of his sight. He just gives his all. I want to highlight the last 20 minutes in particular. Spain had finally began to show they cared about losing the game. But whenever Fabregas, Villa, Torres got to the ball in the box, Parker was there as like a reserve defender; a little Berlin wall in NW5. He blocked everything. He was frequently the first man to the ball in the crucial situations. England's victory against the world and european champions was in no small part down to him. When Wilshere returns from injury, he and Parker in midfielder could be nothing short of sensational for England.


One other observation I made. Everyone has always posed the question; Can Lampard and Gerrard operate in the midfield together? Despite Frank Lampards' recent resurgence, for me, he still doesnt belong anywhere near the England shirt. Yes he scored the winner but really didn't do much else except hold. But he did have a greater sense of freedom both in his play and time on the ball. So I think a more pertinent question should be; Can Lampard and Parker play together?

well, maybe.....just maybe......

The centre back pairing of Lescott and Jagielka were excellent. Obviously not unaccustomed to playing together from their Everton days together. Both of these guys and Cahill should be comfortably keeping the only remaining poison from the old England side, John Terry out of the set up, and I don't know why he is still being considered, let alone be allowed to captain the side, particularly with his recent on AND off field transgressions. I digress...

Joleon Lescott in particular, ran Parker very close for MOTM. Since his £20m move to Manchester City in the Summer of 2010, Lescott was yet to hold down a permanent position. And to be honest he was good but I never ever thought of him in an England shirt. But now, with Vincent Kompany by his side at Eastlands, he seems to be learning from the best, molding into one of England's best defenders.
He now is not scared to go aerial and will on most occasions win any of those battles. But generally he is more of a presence and a dominant figure. If he keeps his form up and stays clear of injuries. He could be a shoe-in for a starting 11 berth in the summer.


So whilst a 1 0 victory against Spain was a fantastic result, it would be churlish to suggest England are now world beaters or that they have Spains' number. Particularly in the light of the fact that this was Spain's fourth defeat since winning the World Cup 16 months ago. They have suffered losses to Argentina (4-1), Italy (2-1) and Portugal (4-0). And now a 2 nil defeat the mighty Costa Rica.....Spain are struggling for goals against the big sides with an out of form Torres, who may need to be put out of his misery before next Summer.

They are the Arsenal of the International scene of last year. it would seem....



Moving back to England, there were definitely reasons to be optimistic aside from Parker, Jagielka and Lescott. Rodwell when he came on against the Spaniards looked a live wire running forward but in more close proximity in the Sweden game, where he admittedly missed a sitter of a header, yes. But he looks a very clever operator and is bullish. He's certainly a great card to play off the bench if required.

England's problem lately has been leaking goals down the right due to Glen Johnson's inability to defend. But that now may be solved thanks to Kyle Walker (yes another yid. Ugh) Walker is quicker than Johnson which allows him to track back faster, but also nip down the flanks with relative ease and he can actually make a decent tackle. He fits the bill more effectively than the Liverpool right back.

Also Englands big problem is if Rooney is suspended for the early stages of the tournament, how do England compensate for this? Well I dont think it's too much of a problem. Rooney, temperamentally, is a liability and the facts are that when he plays England rely far too much on him. Welbeck on the break against Spain looked sharp, pacy and he could definitely trouble a few defences. Sturridge didn't really get a chance to shine versus the Swedes. But he definitely adds a dimension to England's play and is quick enough to open large gaps in the middle of the park. With Young to come back also. I'd also like to see Gabby get a decent chance, but sadly he seems to pick injuries up on duty. Bent will continue, but other than the assist for Lampard's goal, I an unsure what he actually brings to the table....

I will finish by showing you the team I predicted earlier this season for the future England line up...


                             HART
 
JONES      CAHILL     TERRY      COLE

                            JONES

  CLEVERLEY   WILSHERE  PARKER

                                         YOUNG
                          ROONEY


I will now give you my updated thoughts...

                            HART

WALKER      CAHILL      LESCOTT   COLE

                           JONES

 WALCOTT     WILSHERE      PARKER
     
            WELBECK      YOUNG  


It will be interesting to see what transpires...

Weekend Thoughts...Chelsea Ship...Utd Park The Bus... Spurs Sparkle...

greetings roaders..

This blog is slowly turning into a 'what happened at the weekend' type thing. That wasn't the plan but what fits eh?

This past weekend confirmed once again for my money, why the EPL is the best league in the world. Just for the sheer speed and excitement of it. In a matchday that had 35 goals, with Stoke v Newcastle to come. None more spectactular than those of Messrs, Hoilett and Morison for Blackburn and Norwich respectively.

I start, with glee, with events of Saturday lunchtime at the bridge....

As I have written before, Chelsea Football Club's tenure under Andre Vilas Boas, would mean attacking football and lots of it; no sitting back for him. But also it would mean a real lack of defensive nouse, wide gaps opening up and the counter attack a real form of threat for opposing sides. Unfortunately now for AVB and Chelsea, the lack of defence is outweighing the attacking element, or rather the clinical element. But the main problem is that all too often, even at the this early stage, much of the blues' games have descended into playground football games, that most times in the big games, they have been on the wrong end of...

This regime has given certain players new leases of life. Frank Lampard for one. He is rediscovering his ability to be the right place at the right time that have seen him notch up 4 goals and 2 assists in his last 4 games. His hattrick at the Reebok a prime example. Another is Jose Bosingwa. But this is Chelsea's BIG achilles heel. The fact he has began galloping up and down the right wing has horribly exposed Terry and David Luiz at the back. In fact Arsenal's equaliser from Andre Santos, exhibited this with acres of space on the right wing fot the brazilian (not the quickest of players) to run into. 

Then of course there is David Luiz himself and his inability to stay in defence..... 

In my opinion the game against Blackburn at Ewood on Saturday is huge. Chelsea need to stop a run of two successive defeats becoming three, which at a bottom of the table side would, on paper, look unlikely, but after unlucky defeats to in-form Spurs and a VERY unlucky draw with Norwich at Carrow Road, it wouldn't be a massive surprise to see a favorable result for Rovers. Surely Ivanovic will be brought in to paper over cracks on the right wing?

I really like AVB. Hes a great character, great manager. He is the ethos of attacking football, much like Wenger. But if the defensive lapses continue he could be out the door faster than you can say Christmas Turkey...

Arsenal on the other hand, are on the right side of poor defensive displays, or rather defensive lapses. Arsene Wenger seems to be subconsciously adopting the old Real Madrid adage of 'you score, we'll score more'. The 5 3 victory saw the Gunners record their fifth league victory in a row. A far cry from their relegation form of September. Certain players are at the heart of their resurgence more than others.

Robin van Persie continues his startlingly scintillating form having already scored 12 goals this season. But also his creativity is really shining. If anything his first touch and control is getting even better. The man is in the best form of his life and appears to be getting some luck in the injury department. If he signs a new contract at the Emirates he will be pushing Thierry Henry for status as the greatest Premier League player in Arsenal's history. I really hope he continues in this way and with upcoming games with West Brom at home and Norwich away after the international break, he has every chance.

Arsenal's midfield is really now starting to shows its teeth. Mikel Arteta is showing his cards but moreso, the welsh wizard Aaron Ramsey. Ramsey is starting to show traits of Fabregas in his play. He is starting to supply that killer ball into the final third and when he isn't doing that he his getting up the field in positions to score aswell, as his goals against Marseille and Spurs have shown. But where Arsenal have improved in no small way down to Koscielny and Santos. Andre Santos is not the quickest full back in the world, but he is strong and his was excellent against Chelsea, particularly in the second half. he kept their main threat Juan Mata out when in the crucial areas of Arsenal's half. More performances of this ilk will see him as first choice left back ahead of the injury prone Gibbs. Also a big mention for Koscielny who blocked almost everything, where the still slightly questionable Per Mertesacker didn't. When he could. 

Against Everton, we saw a side of Manchester United certainly I had not seen in a long while. They parked the bus. Boy did they park it. Two full double deckers across the penalty area. So scared were Utd of conceding on the counter attack at 1 nil, the defence the, midfield and even Wayne Rooney just consolidated  from the back. In the absence of the broken-toed Ashley Young, SAF elected to leave the other wide wing player, Nani on the bench also and instead opted to play a front three and nothing else. Rooney, Hernandez and Welbeck were always going to be isolated; and it was the way Manchester Utd wanted to play it. Negative? Well, yes but you can understand the managers tentativeness after their worst home defeat in 80 years....

Finally on to the messy stuff. Totnum. Ugh...

I am an honest blogger, first and foremost, so I will do just that, whatever and wherever my allegiances may lie and hatred seep out. Yes, Tottenham were pitted a against a side in QPR who have conceded 14 goals already this season. But noneless the interpassing on show was nothing short of mesmeric. Scott Parker really has been Tottenham's best signing in years - as everyone knew he would be -. Even if he may not be the greatest goalscorer or assist maker, Parker just holds all the pieces together he is the engine room of Spurs and together with the little croatian magician, Modric, they inspire wizardry. Indeed, Scotty Parker appears to be the sorcerer's apprentice. He simply does not get the credit he deserves.

Tottenham's most overrated player of last year Bale, appears to be be finding his killer instinct on the left wing again. Both of his goals were created by Aaron Lennon but finished with aplomb by the welshman. If he continues in his ways this season once again Spurs will be knocking on the top four door. But still for me Spurs' lynchpin in the dutch master Rafael van der Vaart. He scored again on sunday to make it five games in a row he has found the net. After a slow start I and many doubted he could recapture the form that for my money made him Spurs' player of last season. He has scored 6 in the last five games and once the dutch man finds form he really is lethal. If he and Adebayor link up well, with Bale and Lennon on the wings and with Luka Modric in behind, Spurs could yet be a force to be reckoned with.   

But as I say, Spurs will many tougher days at the office.....

Weekend Thoughts...Utd Get Humbled..Newcastle Continue To Impress...Have Arsenal Turned A Corner?...

afternoon roaders.

apologies for a lack of post last week. the world of gainful employment has once again clasped me against its (not) ample busom.

anyhoo.......

Fascinating Weekend of 'English Barclays Premier League Football' as Ray Wilkins would so delicately put it...


1930 was the last time Man Utd had shipped 6 goals at Old Trafford. Buts that what happened against the worst possible opponents (from a geographical point of view) on Sunday afternoon. by the conclusion of the game I was making noises and squeals of apoplexy most often reserved for that of a monkey enclosure. Lets look at the key factors in the game.

We have to begin with yet another tour-de-force outing for David Silva. It is becoming a cliche in itself to say I have run out of superlatives for this man. But I have. Majestic. Magical. Mesmeric. Those are just the 'm's'. In every single game this season, except for the Villa game at Eastlands, which he was rested for, if David Silva has not either scored, assisted or created a goal, his tireless work rate and movement around the pitch - not to mention his first touch when getting the ball - has contributed to a monumental effort toward a team victory.

This man is the reason why I CANNOT hate Manchester City. He is amazing. Even at this early stage of the season, only long term injury can prevent him winning PFA player of the year. There is no one even close to what he does. Goodness knows what his market value is? Aside from Silva, the formerly troubled Mario Balotelli is showing signs consistently, of his quality and keeping his theatrics and eccentricities off the pitch. No doubt Mr Balotelli's house will be THE place to be come November 5th. Fireworks anyone?...

that t-shirt is already on my Xmas list...

Throw in excellent performances from City's oft criticised wide man James Milner and Micah Richards bear like stature and powerful surges down the right and City were too strong for a Utd side lacking Cleverley's, well, cleverness. City are really starting to look a very good unit and with a five point lead few would argue they look good to win already. But lest we forget, Chelsea had a 9 point lead in late November and by January were 3rd. Things can change....


Newcastle are also starting to look like a top 6 side. Alan Pardew has not received the plaudits he deserves for his sides excellent start to the season. Yes they are yet to play Utd, City, or Liverpool but with points against Arsenal and Spurs at St. James Park, few could argue that they have passed early tests.



Many expected the magpies to brush aside a forlorn Wigan side but could only manage a single goal courtesy of a delightful swerving shot form former Lille man Yohan Cabaye; a player I picked out at the beginning of the season as a potentially excellent signing for Newcastle. Cabaye has struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League, but who wouldnt? Gradually he has formed a fluid partnership with Ivorian powerhouse Cheik Tiote in the midfield and Tiote's presence allows Cabaye to bomb forward on many occasions and create havoc. In tandem they then supply the forwards Ba, Ameobi and Best with the ammunition to convert chances into goals.



Perhaps, though the secret of Newcastle's unbeaten start to the season is the back four. They pick themselves. Ryan Taylor is a wonderful creative outlet at left back, not so adept at defending but has a wonderful freekick ability in his locker as shown in his goal against Sunderland back in August. He has pace in abundance and frequently gets high up the field notching up assists from time to time. Danny Simpson also has a great deal of pace and is a great crosser. Personally I feel his inability to defend and make silly mistakes hinders his game.



The big part of Newcastle is the Centre back partnership of Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor. Coloccini is a born leader. Crazy hair in the vein of Marouane Fellaini but the same work ethic. Big Strong frame with a excellent aerial ability in both penalty areas and also has a great right foot on him. Taylor is very different to Coloccini but is the perfect foil for him. Hes not huge. 5'11, infact, but is strong and often in the opposing penalty area is adept at wriggling away from his marker, setting up set piece goals. Curiously Steven Taylor was frozen out by former manager Chris Hughton after Taylor returned from a lengthy spell out with cruciate ligament damage. But after a few weeks of Pardew's regime, he was reinstalled ahead of Mike Williamson after he was banned following a series of poor challenges in a league game against Chelsea last November.



Newcastle have a tough run of games in November playing all of the top three. After those games we will have a better indication of whether they are a top four contender...

Finally it appears that Arsenal Football Club may have began to turn the corner and put their hideous start to the 2011/12 campaign behind them. September was not kind to Arsene Wenger. After the unlucky 2 1 defeat to Spurs on October the 3rd, Arsenal have recorded victories against a beleaguered Sunderland but more impressively against Marseille at Stade Velodrome and Stoke at the Weekend. Its no secret that in no small part are those victories - at least league ones - are down to the prolific Robin van Persie who is enjoying his longest career spell to date, without an injury. already notching up 9 league goals already. One could argue he is the most in form striker in the world right now.

Those words I type as I expect any day for his legs to shut down...


But Arsenal's recent resurgence is not, as some pundits are saying due to one man. Gervinho's contibution on Sunday was excellent winning man of the match setting up both of RVPs goals but also converting a delightful Aaron Ramsey chip over the Stoke defence. He started the season in lively fashion, but as so many of Arsenals signings of recent years have flattered to deceive; looking lively, creating chances but ultimately wasting them. Gervinho has now scored 3 goals and notched up 3 assists. The guy will always try and fingers crossed as his confidence grows so will his goal tally.  Now this blogger is still very dubious about said resurgence, as Chelsea could quite easily expose come Saturday lunchtime, but if this is the case, it's down to hard work from two particular men.


Koscielny and Mertesacker are starting to form a really strong partnership in the absence of the belgian god that is Thomas Vermaelen. I have never doubted Koscielny's potential; he is quick and is an ox. Surprisingly so. Early on, fans seriously doubted that the German and the Frenchman could form an effective partnership. But where Mertesacker lacks pace and mobility, Koscielny makes up for. Where Koscielny lacks power and steadfastness, Mertesacker makes up for. It's a good team.  


With Thomas Vermaelen back in the Carling Cup Squad to face Bolton this evening, if he plays 90 mins, the belgian could be installed back into the team to play Chelsea. That leaves a question over who to partner him at the back. I'd say Mertesacker and Vermaelen would operate even more succesfully. So then what about Laurent? As much as I prefer to see Johann Djourou play at right back, away from the responsibilities that come from being a centre back and the resulting mistakes he is BOUND to make, I would much rather have pace on the right wing as well as the ability to defend, to boot. Therefore, for me, its a no brainer to play Koscielny at right back on saturday.

But that's just me.

Goodness only knows what Mr Wenger thinks..... hmmmm......

Rooney Gets a Bad Rap, The Arsenal Civil War Begins...

afternoon, Holloway Roaders.

the word seems to be spreading to google about the blog now. getting there.


England's european qualification for Ukraine and Poland was confirmed on friday night in Podgorica. I admit to thinking that It was a cert anyway, even if we lost, as we had a plus 10 goal difference. Even - as I say - we did lose it would still take a 7 nil win, away in Geneva for Montenegro to win the group. I did however neglect to realise that it was head to head results that counted and a loss in the Montegran capital would mean if they beat Switzerland on Tuesday night they would qualify automatically. So I planned a night of culture out on the town.

Oh.

I checked in at half time in the pub down the road to discover we were 2 1 ahead. It looked comfortable - and largely - it was. Despite a few last minute nerves after Montenegro equalised and of course a certain sending off....now I have seen the game, here are a few thoughts...

Lets get to the elephant in the room. (sorry Wayne!)

Rooney.


If you havent seen it yet here is Rooney lashing out at Montenegran midfielder Miodrag Dszudic

Wayne has never been the cleanest of players, often with the shortest of fuses. This piece in The Telegraph highlights the big clash points in his career

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/players/wayne-rooney/8814716/Wayne-Rooney-sent-off-a-list-of-the-England-forwards-on-field-misdemeanours.html

But looking at just his sendings off: 

For Man Utd v Villarreal in the Champions League in 2004 for sarcastically applauding the referee after unintentionally fouling a player.

For England v Portugal in the 2006 World Cup Quarter Final in Germany for the infamous stamp on United teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.

For Man Utd v Porto - just over one month after his misdemeanours in Germany - for elbowing defender Pepe. He was banned for 3 games.

For Man Utd in 2009 at Craven Cottage for a second bookable offence after kicking the ball away in frustration. Rooney then proceeded to throw a tantrum. At the corner flag.

For England v Montengro in October 2011, for kicking out at a midfielder.

Now, I am not Wayne Rooney's biggest fan. Far from it. He's not a nice guy. period. But his sending off on friday night was one of his lesser crimes. Yes it was silly. Yes it was rash. Yes it was unnecessary. But Rooney is a striker and its in his nature to put a boot through things. i.e. Balls...ahem....he tried to regain the ball and was late and he kicked him. BUT it really didnt look that bad. No stamp. No elbow. And he knew as soon as he had done it he regretted it. Wayne Rooney rarely shows remorse. He is learning. So for the press to villify him as they have is a shame. 

Unfortunately for a guy so much in the public spotlight at all times, his reputation precedes him. Celebrity dictates it so.

A few other things that I noted.

As predicted Phil Jones made his England debut at Right Back in Podgorica. He really does add an extra dimension on the wings. Indeed he nearly became the quickest international debut scorer international history after his second minute cross-cum-shot was palmed over by goalkeeper Mladen Bozovic. He was caught out at times but he is 19 and he has much to learn still...The question remains whether to keep Jones at Right Back or to move him Centrally, as question marks have cropped up over Gary Cahill's form, but also Kyle Walker is now pushing hard for a starting berth after a man of the match performance versus Arsenal in the North London Derby last weekend.

Ashley Young continues to impress on the international stage. Another show stealing perfomance on the left wing, floating in and around the attacking role saw him convert Theo Walcott's pinpoint cross and create for Darren Bent to tap in at the far post. Since his move to Old Trafford he really has found his feet and his transferral from Villa Park has been effortless. His presence was greatly missed against Norwich when trying to break down a resilient Canaries defence.   

Finally a quick word on what may or may not happen this Saturday at the Emirates Stadium. A pocket of Arsenal fans, who are still in the minority, officially, that is are planning on unfurling a banner during the Sunderland game.....  

interesting developments. The unrest seems to be approaching a par with that of Everton fans. This particular blogger is standing on the Wenger side, peering onto the otherside of the fence, asking for the occasion cup of sugar. If defensive displays continue to be lacklustre than I may vault over said fence. the real issue is that more and more fans I speak to seem to be losing faith in Le Boss, whether they know fuck all, or not. If war breaks out out between the fans - regardless of a naive, ignorant, toothless board - it will affect everyone. 

Then things will get interesting....

Ok...NOW It's A Crisis...

afternoon.

Yesterdays' events have compelled me to blog earlier than I would have normally. So here goes...

I'm starting to run out of scapegoats and explanations for Arsenal's continuing failings. I have blogged in depth about my feelings about Arsene. Whilst maligned, they are not all completely fair, after much consideration and frankly I am tired of blaming our manager. So I am not going to.

At least not today...

Spurs' marginal victory yesterday means they have recorded 3 wins out 4 in the North London rivals' meetings over the past 2 years. Where as previously it was 1 in 20. In that time, Tottenham have closed the gap on their most hated of Islington neighbours. But other than personnel and improved quality of player, in my opinion the only difference is that Spurs have moved and evolved, but Arsenal have not. The antithesis of stagnation.


This biggest change for Arsenal was the departure of David Dein. Dein made a lot of the calls in the Arsenal boardroom. He was also Wengers' right hand man. When things were going awry, he was the one to have a quiet word in his ear; the voice of reason. That man now appears to be Ivan Gazidis and he does little to aide Wenger or appease the fans. On the face of it. I feel Gazidis is letting the club down more than Wenger ever has.  So who is Ivan Gazidis?


Ivan Gazidis was born in September of 1964, in Johannesburg, South Africa. He then moved to Manchester at the age of 4 and supported Manchester City as a young boy (does anybody see where this is going). He graduated with a degree in law at Oxford before moving to the States to work with Latham & Watkins. In 1994 he joined the founding management team of Major League Soccer and 7 years later became deputy comissioner. Three years ago in 2008, he was enlisted as Chief Executive of Arsenal Football Club, replacing the outgoing Dein. He was brought in to improve Arsenal's commercial avenues and to improve revenues from marketing.


There is NO doubt whatsoever he has done this. And so why is less and less money been invested into the Football Club, in terms of quality, no, world class players. Is the effort not there? It appears there is no teeth for the fight. The problem is for Gazidis and that prehistoric, ignorant mouthpiece, Peter Hill-Wood is that Arsenal has become one of the biggest cash cows in these recession ravaged times. Profit is clearly a good thing. But it is clearly an even better thing for the fat cats, chairpersons and majority shareholders. A football club that is run as more of a company than a sports team, is not. If Arsenal Football were situated in America it would now be a franchise. Hold on....With Kronke (ineffectual as he appears) and Gazidis, Arsenal are now heavily American influenced and financially - or not - backed. Maybe we already are?...

The big problem for me is the sheer level of ignorance on Gazidis' part. The lack of success since 2005, is clearly lost on him:

"I think perspective is very important,"  

"You need to take a distance when you assess the season. This club has over 120 years of history and if you're looking at where we are and how we're doing at this period of our development you have to say it is one of the special times, one of the golden times. I hope we don't forget to appreciate that.

What special times would they be Ivan? Where are these 'golden' times you speak of. Yes we have had success, commerically and in the past on the pitch. But that was with a different regime, which YOU were NOT a part of. So don't put your name on that success. Ever. The tumerity of this man is astounding. He was guilty of not putting the funds on the table for Juan Mata, now thriving at Chelsea. We could have had the same pacy left winger for £7m pounds less than what they paid for. But the funds for deals for Cesc and Lesri were not forthcoming and had not been sorted out.

So what about the transfer kitty? what about the war chest? Couldnt that have been used BEFORE Fabregas was sorted out?

truly astonishingly bad mis-management. I think if not blame Wenger, then blame Gazidis; The buck must stop with him


This brings me onto my main point, with Sagna now sidelined until at least January, Arsenal have a real problem on their hands. Carl Jenkinson will almost certainly now deputise at right back (although Coquelin could also be utilised there as he did with Lorient). Jenkinson is showing promising signs. But the cold hard facts are that this is not the Blue Square Conference. This is the toughest league in the world. many have failed. many will fail. Jenkinson is horribly unexperienced in this department and I am seriously concerned he will be exposed against pacy wingers.

When we return after the international break, Arsenal play Sunderland at home. Jenkinson is likely to be pitted against Seb Larsson or Elmohamady. The game is very much winnable and should be. But Steve Bruce will be fighting for his job and as unpredictable as this league is at times, its a tough call.



Then its Stoke City, again at the Emirates. Always tough against a physical side, who Arsenal repeatedly struggle against. Jenkinson v Etherington is likely to be his chance to best his oppenent. Then it is Chelsea. Mata will no doubt come back to haunt us. One other thing though...this fixture will be Fernando Torres' return from suspension. Hmmm...a fresh Fernando Torres, bad form or not....


Doesn't bare thinking about.....


What is currently 15th place and 3 places above the drop zone, could and really should improve.

But if things don't go smoothly and - as we have seen, rarely do - in a months time, 15th place might not look so bad and then what happens?....

 

Citys Brats....

afternoon. please spread the word about this blog. readership pleases me greatly. like cake.


I return to you fresh from a week in Portugal's fine capital of Lisbon, though as I write this, sitting outside a cafe with my roaming wifi, one could be forgiven for thinking I was still there......anyways on to matters....




 Last nights ticking timebomb that was Carlos Tevez, last night destructed on the outskirts of Munich, destroying egos, and smashing ideas of a seemingly purring football club. Tevez's behaviour last was 6 months in the making.  Tevez had publically stated his desire to leave Manchester (which frankly I didnt see coming) to be with his family. What he didnt consider were the ramifications of his outburst. Tevez was on wages of up to 250,000k a week, which only a handful of clubs could get near to meeting; Real, Anzhi, PSG and Man City themselves. Problem.

The argentine's actions last night, are scandalous, for such a high profile player as Tevez. Its the equivalent of me refusing to go to work for WHATEVER reason but still demanding to be paid. It is alleged and I say this in the strongest sense of the word, that he had warmed up late in the first half last night at the Allianz Arena and was told to be prepared to come on if Dzeko didnt up his game. So the second half began and City looked more lifeless and Mancini dragged Edin off. But then Tevez when called said 'No thanks'  

Lets look a the facts; We dont know for certain he refused to play, BUT he refused to move from the bench. That much is certain. YES he has been dicked around by Man City but that was all his own doing; slating Manchester and the club. Tevez claimed earlier today that he did not refuse to play;

 "There was some confusion on the bench and I believe my position may have been misunderstood."  

he added:

 

 "This is not the right time to get into specific details as to why this did not happen. But I wish to state that I never refused to play.

I'm sorry. But what misunderstanding would that be? after 4 years in the English top flight, you should know what the universal sign for "get on the fu**ing" pitch" is. In this regard Mr. Tevez doesn't have a leg to stand on. My feelings are his agent Kia Jorabchian has been in his ear to try to calm the situation down...I have a certain amount of sympathy for Carlos. He is clearly a family man and he loves his children very much. He loves the fans and he does work exceptionally hard and is an equally talented player.

But this guy has bought into the devil (City) and a devils contract is a dangerous thing, near like selling your soul. So City own him. he has a lucrative contract; they can do as they see fit. This makes Arsenal's retention of Cesc Fabregas seem like child's play, as certain foolish individuals have mentioned to me. But the real issue I have with the defence is exactly that; If I was getting paid in excess of 200k a week I would forget about my unhappiness. I'd even force happiness upon me. BECAUSE I WAS BRINGING IN 500K. A MONTH.

I'd be clinically depressed....

thats a no go, coming from a guy who has suffered with borderline depression, at times.

the more interesting question now is after Manchester Citys' dire performance in Munich coupled with unhappy players; Joe Hart, Edin Dzeko to name but a few, how do City move forward from this? After a performance like this and resulting toys being thrown out of prams, if this was Arsenal it would be a crisis. If Man City do not address these problems they could have a mutiny on their hands in the vein of Shay Given gate. Lets face it; City don't need more insolent children on their books with Ballotelli a frequent offender and Kun Aguero having already show signs of dissent when removed from the field during a game. Not to mention a certain lesbian looking french winger who will remain nameless. If either Dzeko or Kun were to lose their form, City could have some real problems.


After Gary Cooks resignation (or rather his forced) as a result of alleged racist bullying towards Nedum Onuoha's 'cancer ravaged' mother, City were looking to avoid more bad PR....
 

Three Lions Optimism..

afternoon.


A week has passed since the international break and after another eventful week in the Premier League, there is much food for thought regarding the course of the English National team and its future.
6 points was a good outcome, if perhaps not merited (are u reading Robert Earnshaw). The squad in my opinion has real potential but only if certain players are included and used in the right combination.

Lets look at the way England lined up against Bulgaria:


                                                                   HART

SMALLING                      CAHILL                              TERRY                       COLE


    WALCOTT                  PARKER                     BARRY                DOWNING


                                                                                        YOUNG
                                                                ROONEY                                                                       

Now how they did versus the welsh::


                                                                       HART


SMALLING                      CAHILL                              TERRY                       COLE


    MILNER                   LAMPARD                   BARRY                DOWNING


                                                                                        YOUNG
                                                                  ROONEY

During his time at the Villa, Ashley Young had always seemed to be on the fringes of the starting 11. But now, with his move to Man Utd, he seems to have a new lease of life, in no small part to to his newly found understanding with club mate Rooney. The way these two feed off each other is seemless. These two pretty much pick each other for the Starting XI.

This poses interesting questions about Englands other attacking players and where they may fit in, or not. But lets look at the back line first - an area I am going to focus on...


At The Back:

John Terry would appear to be the only one left of the old guard that is an automatic selection - if fit. Rio Ferdinand has seen better days; He has lost about 40% of his pace and there are beginning to be serious questions asked of his ageing limbs, with him picking up groin strains and muscle injuries. So where else do we look?

As I have previously written, this should be Gary Cahill's breakthrough year; he's now 25 and is gradually becoming one of the Premier League's better defenders; He is solid, works tirelessly, is particularly mobile and at times deadly in front of goal - certainly for a defender. This was underlined by his goal on his debut against the Bulgarians. They way he took his chance; The way he stayed in a dangerous area but most importantly his composed finish in tight area. As his second cap against the Welsh showed, it looks like Cahill is here to stay.

I was very impressed with Chris Smalling, also on international debut. A centre back at heart, yes, but when utilised as a full-back, Smalling adds another level of defensive offensive, if you will. For a guy of 6 foot, he has a better eye for a cross than many other diminutive wingers wouldn't. Smalling's other attribute is that he is quite pacy and can break down any potential counter-attacks. Smalling still has much to garner, against the big european teams, but already his place is beginning to look assured as a better alternative to Glen Johnson, who lacks a defensive nouse, as any sane Liverpool fan will atestify.

As far as Ashley Cole goes, I have no real vision of a left back that could take his place, except that is, Leighton Baines. One may go as far as to say Baines' delivery into the box is equal to, if not better than Cole. Baines lacks strength in the defensive department though. But the biggest hindrance to his chances are his own personal problems of homesickness. If he can overcome this, then he has a real chance of breaking through. IF

Kieran Gibbs would be the other full back to push for Cole's place, but currently he is going through a tough time with injury and like Baines, has defensive issues. he needs to strengthen his physique for this to happen.
A few other names are starting to emerge from the shadows following big money moves in the summer...

First there is Phil Jones. This guy is a bull. He looks terrifying when on the ball (for the opponents). He can run at defences with ease when utilised as a holding midfielder  and even then as a centre back, he still enjoys jaunts forward as he portrayed in his 2 assists against Bolton at the weekend. Jones is powerful and his heading ability for someone so young is impressive. He is also built well. I can see him slotting into a main centre back role, but also as a holding player to add more steal to an England midfield, that the likes of Milner, Barry and  the outgoing Lampard may not. If not there he could adequately fill in at right back. It will
be interesting to see where he will do the majority of his playing time...

From a personal view, Id love to see Roger Johnson get a fair shot. During his time at Birmingham, his performances were often match winning ones, or indeed match saving ones. But he was never really considered. In March he was called up to the squad,
but injury denied him a debut cap which was a huge shame. I am a big fan of Johnson and am slightly surprised that a bigger club than Wolves didnt come in for him. He's 26, not young, but most certainly not past it. He adds a real steel to the back line, as well as guts and goals. The only problem is I'm not sure where he comes down the pecking order as it stands. I hope Capello and future bosses do the right thing.


Defensive Pool;   Terry, Cole, Cahill, Richards, Jones, Smalling, Lescott, Baines, Glen Johnson, Warnock, Gibbs, Ferdinand, Roger Johnson, Upson;


Through the Middle:


The midfield picture is less clear, as far as permanent fixtures are concerned. With Gerrard struggling with niggling injuries and Lampard being ushered out (about time) the new England midfield is in the process of being molded and melded together. Scott Parker appears to now be a definite starter. As is Theo Walcott, who we will go onto later and Gareth Barry. So what are the other options?...

Firstly, there is Wilshere, who when fit is a first teamer. His dynamicy is unmatched as far as English players go. He is best utilised right in the middle of the park, where he can create and run at teams. His absence for the Wales game was keenly felt. Someone who has a real shout at establishing himself is Tom Cleverley. In his time on loan at Wigan last season, he was often the stand out player. Now, since his return to Man Utd, he has forced his way into the starting XI, ousting Carrick and replacing the retiring Paul Scholes, thus partnering Anderson in the midfield.

Cleverley has had an impressive start to the season, which has had a direct impact on United's transfer dealings in that position, or lack thereof. For England though he could easily play on the right or left of midfield as a supplier, but also as tenacious tackler and distributor.



Matt Jarvis of Wolves could definitely do a job as a left winger, but that very much depends on the way other attacking players are utilised. Stewart Downing also, could also play on the right and has slightly more pace than Jarvis. Lately - after being the darling of Steve McClaren's England tenure - with many asking as to why he merited inclusion, his performances for Villa and more recently Liverpool have seen him earn his call up. Then there is Ashley Young, as mentioned. But it is his positioning or where he is played that will determine the forward options for England...


Midfield Pool:   Young, Wilshere, Barry, Parker, Lampard, Gerrard, Henderson, Jarvis, Downing, Milner, Cleverley;


Up Front:


England's striking options are plentiful. But the right combination and balance has to be reached. Currently, Rooney plays as the sole striker, with Ashley Young the provider just behind him. This formation leaves England's options limited in a 4 4 1 1 formation. Looking at the strikers individually there is much to ponder...

Danny Sturridge could quite easily be a starter. A lot of people have said that with 5 strikers, and more at Chelsea (Torres, Drogba, Anelka, Lukaku, Sturridge) he would find it increasingly difficult to make a place in the starting line up his own, if, as indeed he did, refuse a move away from Stamford Bridge to fight for his own place. But with Torres' currently goal drought and Didier Drogba's concussion, Sturridge is beginning to fight his way into the line up. His sublime, if not, outrageous finish against Sunderland, highlights that he does not lack confidence.

The other big loan striker breakthrough was another Danny, Welbeck. He would appear to be battling Javier Hernandez for a starting berth at Old Trafford, with Dimitar Berbatov increasingly falling out of favour.  
If utilised as a front two, Sturridge and Welbeck could work together very well, both very pacy and technically sound.

outside of these two, there is Zamora, who continues to impress at Fulham; Andy Carroll of Liverpool, but with his current problems on and off the pitch, there remains a big question mark over him; Jermaine Defoe needs to recapture his goalscoring prowess, but will continue to knock on the door and Kevin Davies exists as a real goal threat, for a sometimes lacking England threat,


Attacking Pool;   Rooney, Carroll, Welbeck, Sturridge, Zamora, Davies, Defoe;

So with all this said what could we be looking at come next summer in Ukraine and Poland.

well, potentially this.



                                                                HART




SMALLING                CAHILL                                TERRY                      COLE


                                                               JONES




                   CLEVERLEY                  WILSHERE                 PARKER 


                                                                                   YOUNG


                                                               ROONEY


or...




                                                                HART




   JONES                     CAHILL                                        TERRY                  COLE




   CLEVERLEY/MILNER                WILSHERE               PARKER/GERRARD   



  STURRIDGE/WALCOTT               ROONEY                 YOUNG/WELBECK


but really, there is much to be concluded...

The new blood....

and a very happy sunday to you all.



from the go id like to apologize for not posting for a few weeks. It been all go a chez Leverett, with festivals and what not. Basically I wrote 2 separate pieces but I've chosen to hold fire on them-for now....

onwards and upwards....

m

so it took total annihilation of his team for the manager to wake up and smell the coffee. With the absence of Wilshere, Song and Frimpong, Arsenals threadbare side were dismantled with ease, overrunning the midfield as only united can do best. Not exactly aiding the situation was the lamentable Johann Djourou who seems to be sliding back to his old ways.

Not 24 hours after this total humilaition, Arsene was right into the market....

Firstly lets cover Andre Santos' arrival, a move which I was most surprised with. But happily so. Arsene Wenger's belief in Kieran Gibbs, has not wavered, but his realisation, thankfully has. Gibbs is very injury prone at this stage of his career and this may never change. But even though Traore's impending move to QPR was on the cards i still didnt see Wenger recruiting another LB.

Enter Santos. 28. Brazilian international, most recently playing ahead of Real's Marcelo at the Copa America  this summer. Wenger's penchant for Brazilians is no secret, but this guy has real flair. Something Arsenal have sorely missed since the days of Sylvinho, and this guy has more than a touch of him about his play. All too often have had quick full backs that cant defend; this guy can and not only create and open play up, but can cross and deliver with aplomb. For £6.2m from Fenerbahce, it could prove to be a great piece of business...

Onto, in my opinion, the big signing (literally). Standing at 6'6' and exemplifying raw, German efficiency and power is Per Mertesacker. Arsene Wenger has been following the progress of the German at Werder Bremen for the past 2 years, and after deals for Cahill and Jagielka were deemed too expensive, Wenger has swooped for a proven, successful international, at half the price.

At just 26, and an international career spanning 7 years and 75 caps already, Mertesacker is a stalwart of the modern german game, paired with Arne Friedrich in central defence, his perfomances have progressed Germany to world cup semi-finals.

Further more Per claims to be a life long Arsenal fan, visiting his aunt in England to watch Premier League games. So he will not lack heart and fight. Something Arsenal need in abundance at this tricky time.

Curious one this. Park Chu Young or 'Ju' as he prefers to me known was a classic out-of-the-blue Wenger signing. As I have previously blogged, Park had been an unofficial Lille player for going on a month, but the i's and t's hadn't been dotted. He had completed one part of his medical with the French champions, but then suddenly a call came from the Arsenal manager, and Park jumped at the chance. Well who wouldn't?

.......

Anyway. He was soon on a train to Colney to complete said medical and become an Arsenal player. Some reports claim his deal is up to £10m so as to pay off his national service for South Korea, which he is expected to participate, in 2013. Park will be an interesting acquisition, hopefully giving Arshavin a real wake call and replacing the oft ineffectual Niklas Bendtner, who has seemingly ruled out a return. I really hope he gets a good run in the first team, because I really think he could become a cult hero, in the vein of Eboue.

though hopefully he can actually play football......

Another deadline day arrival was Yossi Benayoun on loan from Chelsea. He never really got a chance to shine for the blues, after having a great run of form for Liverpool. For me if Benayoun is on his game is very unique player. He is hard to read, and hard to deal with when he gets on run. Hopefully with a seeming dearth of real ruthlessness in the current team, Yossi can add an element of surprise to Arsenal's far too predictable game...

Quickly mentioned Alex Oxlaide Chamberlain, who was signed for £12m potentially rising to 15. That is an awful lot of money for a kid essentially. We shall have to see how he progresses.

Finally, I want to touch on the Arrival of Mikel Arteta. I am still of two minds; on the one hand Arteta, since his emergence as one of the finest midfielders in England during his time at Everton, and arguably only just behind Cesc Fabregas in terms of assists, goals and all round team performance. on the other, a guy who lets face it, has had in share of injuries, particularly thigh and hamstring troubles and many have said could be past his best.

There is no doubt that Mikel will play for the shirt; He doesnt do sulking or non performances and is a thorough professional. I have often thought that is ever Cesc departed, he would be as close to a Fabregas clone as humanly possibly; Same stature, build, appearance, postition. He even resembles him to a degree.

I would love for him to be a brilliant signing. I never thought I'd see Arteta in an Arsenal shirt. And with Wilshere (when he comes back), I see Arteta as the perfect mentor for Englands brightest midfield star.

Only time will tell.....

I will be doing a final extensive transfer round up in my next post. And boy is there much to cover....