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fgl
Well-known member
Flamini proves himself right to stay and fight
Arsenal 3-0 Sevilla
Champions League Group Stage
Arsenal Stadium
Wed, Sep 19, 2007, 7.45pm
By Chris Harris
It's quite conceivable that Mathieu Flamini could have lined up against Arsenal this season.
The French midfielder was close to a move away from Emirates Stadium in the summer but, after a heart-to-heart with Arsène Wenger, decided to stay and fight for his first-team place.
Flamini has risen to the challenge. Handed a starting berth while Gilberto recuperated after the Copa America, the 22-year-old has been an unsung hero in Arsenal's flying start to the season. Far from lingering on the fringes, Flamini is now a central part of Wenger's plans.
After another high-octane performance against Sevilla on Wednesday night, Flamini spoke with the air of a man who knows he made the right choice when he mulled over whether to stay or go.
"It's true I was close to leaving because I didn’t play enough so I spoke to the coach and we had a good discussion," he said.
"Now I’m here, I’m very happy to be here and we’re playing great football. The boss told me he had confidence in me and I said, ‘Alright, I am going to stay and I’ll prove that I can play'.
"I think I am doing an important job because I have to win the ball and stay in front of the defence. I am trying to do the maximum for players like Cesc [Fabregas] and Alex Hleb and Tomas Rosicky.
"This season Cesc is a bit more free, playing a little bit higher than me and so he has more chances to score and more chances to give some passes and I think that is important. The more I play the more it gives me confidence."
It's easy to understand why Flamini suspected his future lay away from Emirates Stadium. Wenger has an embarrassment of riches in central midfield with Fabregas, Gilberto, Denilson, Abou Diaby and Alex Song all vying for a first-team spot when the season kicked off.
Lassana Diarra's arrival on transfer deadline day has further intensified the competition for places. Nonetheless, Flamini's versatility - he is well equipped to cover in either full-back position - gives him an important edge. He certainly relishes the challenge.
"Arsenal is a big club with high ambitions so the competition is here but it will make you better," said Flamini.
"Sometimes I have to move, like last time when I played right back. It is important to teach players to play everywhere. For example, Michael Essien at Chelsea is asked to play right back and he plays there.
"I like to play in midfield because it’s my natural position and I always enjoy to play there. But when I have to play for the team at right back I am trying to do my best.
"At the moment I am playing every game so I will go one game by one game and see what happens. If I am picked to play I play, if not it’s not a problem. The boss makes the decision and I respect his decision."
On current form, it will be hard for Wenger to leave Flamini out.
Arsenal 3-0 Sevilla
Champions League Group Stage
Arsenal Stadium
Wed, Sep 19, 2007, 7.45pm
By Chris Harris
It's quite conceivable that Mathieu Flamini could have lined up against Arsenal this season.
The French midfielder was close to a move away from Emirates Stadium in the summer but, after a heart-to-heart with Arsène Wenger, decided to stay and fight for his first-team place.
Flamini has risen to the challenge. Handed a starting berth while Gilberto recuperated after the Copa America, the 22-year-old has been an unsung hero in Arsenal's flying start to the season. Far from lingering on the fringes, Flamini is now a central part of Wenger's plans.
After another high-octane performance against Sevilla on Wednesday night, Flamini spoke with the air of a man who knows he made the right choice when he mulled over whether to stay or go.
"It's true I was close to leaving because I didn’t play enough so I spoke to the coach and we had a good discussion," he said.
"Now I’m here, I’m very happy to be here and we’re playing great football. The boss told me he had confidence in me and I said, ‘Alright, I am going to stay and I’ll prove that I can play'.
"I think I am doing an important job because I have to win the ball and stay in front of the defence. I am trying to do the maximum for players like Cesc [Fabregas] and Alex Hleb and Tomas Rosicky.
"This season Cesc is a bit more free, playing a little bit higher than me and so he has more chances to score and more chances to give some passes and I think that is important. The more I play the more it gives me confidence."
It's easy to understand why Flamini suspected his future lay away from Emirates Stadium. Wenger has an embarrassment of riches in central midfield with Fabregas, Gilberto, Denilson, Abou Diaby and Alex Song all vying for a first-team spot when the season kicked off.
Lassana Diarra's arrival on transfer deadline day has further intensified the competition for places. Nonetheless, Flamini's versatility - he is well equipped to cover in either full-back position - gives him an important edge. He certainly relishes the challenge.
"Arsenal is a big club with high ambitions so the competition is here but it will make you better," said Flamini.
"Sometimes I have to move, like last time when I played right back. It is important to teach players to play everywhere. For example, Michael Essien at Chelsea is asked to play right back and he plays there.
"I like to play in midfield because it’s my natural position and I always enjoy to play there. But when I have to play for the team at right back I am trying to do my best.
"At the moment I am playing every game so I will go one game by one game and see what happens. If I am picked to play I play, if not it’s not a problem. The boss makes the decision and I respect his decision."
On current form, it will be hard for Wenger to leave Flamini out.
fgl
Well-known member
Hleb and Senderos may join injured quartet on sidelines
Arsenal v Derby County
Barclays Premier League
Emirates Stadium
Sat, Sep 22, 2007, 3pm
By Richard Clarke
Arsène Wenger could be without as many as six players for the Premier League game with Derby County at Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Four were certain to be sidelined. Jens Lehmann (elbow), Emmanuel Eboue (ankle) and William Gallas (groin) have been absent for some time. Last night, Arsenal lost Tomas Rosicky to a hamstring injury just after half-time in the 3-0 win over Sevilla.
Speaking to Arsenal TV Online on Thursday, Wenger potentially added two more to that list. He described Philippe Senderos (hip) as “a doubt” and Alex Hleb (knee) as “a major doubt”.
“We have a few knocks and bruises,” said the manager. “Of course Tomas Rosicky is now added to Lehmann, Eboue and Gallas. He is definitely out.
“Hleb is a major doubt because of a kick on his knee. He has liquid on it today so we’ll see how it goes down. Senderos is a doubt with a hip problem. We don’t know how bad that is. We’ll see how it responds to treatment on Friday morning. I could not give you a percentage chance on their fitness at this stage.
“I will rotate a little bit to bring in some fresh players. Who, I don’t know yet because that depends on whether Hleb and Senderos will be available.”
Arsenal.com with have further injury news on Friday afternoon.
Arsenal TV Online subscribers will be able to see the full interview on Friday. In it, the manager discusses the win over Sevilla, holding down the hype, the attention given to Cesc Fabregas, the departure of Jose Mourinho, his success at Chelsea, Avram Grant’s connection with Arsenal, Derby’s Premiership credentials and Billy Davies.
Arsenal v Derby County
Barclays Premier League
Emirates Stadium
Sat, Sep 22, 2007, 3pm
By Richard Clarke
Arsène Wenger could be without as many as six players for the Premier League game with Derby County at Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Four were certain to be sidelined. Jens Lehmann (elbow), Emmanuel Eboue (ankle) and William Gallas (groin) have been absent for some time. Last night, Arsenal lost Tomas Rosicky to a hamstring injury just after half-time in the 3-0 win over Sevilla.
Speaking to Arsenal TV Online on Thursday, Wenger potentially added two more to that list. He described Philippe Senderos (hip) as “a doubt” and Alex Hleb (knee) as “a major doubt”.
“We have a few knocks and bruises,” said the manager. “Of course Tomas Rosicky is now added to Lehmann, Eboue and Gallas. He is definitely out.
“Hleb is a major doubt because of a kick on his knee. He has liquid on it today so we’ll see how it goes down. Senderos is a doubt with a hip problem. We don’t know how bad that is. We’ll see how it responds to treatment on Friday morning. I could not give you a percentage chance on their fitness at this stage.
“I will rotate a little bit to bring in some fresh players. Who, I don’t know yet because that depends on whether Hleb and Senderos will be available.”
Arsenal.com with have further injury news on Friday afternoon.
Arsenal TV Online subscribers will be able to see the full interview on Friday. In it, the manager discusses the win over Sevilla, holding down the hype, the attention given to Cesc Fabregas, the departure of Jose Mourinho, his success at Chelsea, Avram Grant’s connection with Arsenal, Derby’s Premiership credentials and Billy Davies.
fgl
Well-known member
Q&A with Managing Director Keith Edelman
The Club notes that Red&White Holdings Ltd earlier this week purchased a further 4004 shares taking their investment in Arsenal Football Club to 21 per cent. Arsenal.com caught up with managing director Keith Edelman to gather his views on the recent transactions and allay some of the confusion surrounding takeover rules.
1. Red&White Holdings recently increased their shareholding in Arsenal. What is the position of the Arsenal Board?
The Board is steadfast in its view and we have maintained a consistent and clear position. We do not believe that outside investment is necessary for the long-term good of the Club.
Currently the Board controls 45.5% of the Arsenal shares. The Board entered into a lock down agreement on the 18th April 2007 whereby they agreed that they would not sell their shareholdings for one year and confirmed that they intend to retain their interests on the expiration of this period.
This is still very much the position of the Board today. Whilst shares may have changed ownership, it is very much business as usual here.
2. We keep hearing the phrase ‘lock down agreement’, what does this mean exactly?
The Board made an announcement that they have all agreed not to sell shares for a 12 month period. The Board, therefore, cannot sell, nor indeed buy shares until April 2008. The reason for undertaking this option was that the Board stand as one and believe that a unified position is in the best interests of the Club. We believe that this approach underlines the stability that exists in the current structure of the Club.
3. Does the fact that Red& White Holdings made an official announcement about buying more shares mean that significant change is about to occur?
No. The Club continues to operate in the same way it always has done. However, any party buying shares in a company must follow the Disclosure and Transparency Rules. What this means is that if a party buys 3% of a company’s shares they must notify the issuing company, in this instance Arsenal, as soon as possible, no later than two trading days after the transaction. Then if more shares are bought, they must notify the Club every time their shares surpass each1% threshold. This is what has occurred with Red&White Holdings yesterday.
4. This recent trading has taken Red&White Holdings to 21%. Everyone is talking about 30% being a trigger and a takeover bid is imminent. What is the process and how is the Club dealing with this?
The Takeover Code is clear. Any individual or company (offeror) could make a bid for all the shares in Arsenal at anytime. Even if you didn’t own any shares in the Club you could make a bid, provided, of course, you had the money in place. However, that does not mean that the bid would be successful and indeed, as the Board is committed to retaining its shareholding, a bid would be expected to fail. You are correct that 30% is a significant threshold. If a party acquires 30% of the Club’s shares, under the Takeover Code, they are obliged to make an offer for all of Arsenal’s shares but to reiterate, members of the Board are resolute and wish to retain their shares. Therefore such a bid, as with the previous scenario would be unsuccessful. The case for Red&White Holdings is slightly different however, as when they made their first purchase of shares on August 30th, they publicly stated that they would not make an offer for shares in the Club. This statement effectively precludes Red&White Holdings from making an offer for all the shares of the Company for a six month period (subject to certain exceptions). So, if their shareholding were to increase to 30% at the end of February next year, they would be obliged to make an offer for all of the shares but again and sorry to be repetitive any such offer would not be successful.
5. So what would happen if Red&White Holdings acquired 30% or more of the Club’s shares before the end of February 2008?
According to the rules, the Takeover Panel (which is the regulatory body) would make Red&White Holdings sell down their shareholding so that they were not in this position. Again, an offer could not be made until the end of February 2008.
6. There has been speculation about Red&White Holdings buying Stan Kroenke’s stake in the football club. Do you have a view on this?
We cannot and will not speculate on someone else’s shareholding. However, Stan Kroenke has a 12.2% stake in the Club and if Red&White Holdings were to purchase those shares at this juncture, it would take them over the 30% threshold which would mean that they would have to sell down part of their shareholding.
7. I recognise that the Board has no intention of selling its shares but there has been much said and written about takeovers and how they work and the responsibilities of the Takeover Panel. Can you explain some of the basics to supporters?
The takeover of a company, loosely speaking, falls into one of two categories. The first is where a company or individual can bid to buy all the shares in a particular company from its shareholders with the Board’s recommendation, this is generally known as a “Recommended Offer”. The alternative method is without the Board’s recommendation, this is generally known as a “Hostile Takeover”. A company is taken over when 50.1% of all shares in the company are held by the buying party (either in the form of shares purchased or acceptances received) and at that point the buying party, would be able to appoint directors to the Board and would effectively control the company.
However, it is worth noting that sometimes a higher percentage of acceptances could be required if that is what has been specified in the offer. Also, all other conditions of the offer must be met, for example, passing the “fit and proper person” test under the Football Association Premier League Rules.
8. So at present, the Club does not need to offer a seat on the Board to large investors, say Red&White Holdings or Stan Kroenke?
The Board is free to appoint whomever they believe to be appropriate directors of Arsenal and at present we are very happy with the individuals that represent the Club at Board level.
9. Will there come a time when Board members have to sell their shares? There are some suggestions that the longer the Board retains their shares, the less valuable they become?
The Board is resolute in retaining its shares. They are the custodians of this club and will be doing everything to safeguard its future. The only way that they would be obligated to sell their shares is, for example, if Red&White Holdings or another entity acquired 90% of the Club. Given that the Board has 45.5% of the Club’s shareholding, this action is unlikely.
In terms of how shares are priced, that depends on the price that any party has purchased shares for in the last 12 months. Contrary to some reports, if a mandatory offer is made for all the shares of a company (by virtue of a person having gone through the 30% threshold) then the buying party has to offer the highest price that they have already paid for shares in the marketplace during the last 12 month period.
10. Where does the Arsenal Supporters’ Trust (AST) fit into all of this?
AST is an independent stakeholder which gives a voice to the small shareholders of the Club. We have an open dialogue with them as we do with a number of supporters’ groups. Where appropriate, we make amendments to our procedures to be of assistance, for example the format of the AGM. Should the Club become privately owned, the organisation would cease to exist.
11. Do you have a message to reassure supporters about the Club’s stability?
It is with great pride that the directors preside over the Club’s affairs. We are in great shape, as will be seen when we report our results next Monday. The stadium has been in operation for over a year now and on the financial front, we can compete with any club in the world. We believe that Arsene signing an extension to his contract reinforces our determination to challenge for top honours. At the end of the day, we are a football club that wants to win silverware. There is no better feeling than triumphing on the pitch. That is what gives us all the greatest of pleasure. As for the rest, yes, the exchange of shares may be a distraction and cause for speculation but we are unmoved in our position.
The Club notes that Red&White Holdings Ltd earlier this week purchased a further 4004 shares taking their investment in Arsenal Football Club to 21 per cent. Arsenal.com caught up with managing director Keith Edelman to gather his views on the recent transactions and allay some of the confusion surrounding takeover rules.
1. Red&White Holdings recently increased their shareholding in Arsenal. What is the position of the Arsenal Board?
The Board is steadfast in its view and we have maintained a consistent and clear position. We do not believe that outside investment is necessary for the long-term good of the Club.
Currently the Board controls 45.5% of the Arsenal shares. The Board entered into a lock down agreement on the 18th April 2007 whereby they agreed that they would not sell their shareholdings for one year and confirmed that they intend to retain their interests on the expiration of this period.
This is still very much the position of the Board today. Whilst shares may have changed ownership, it is very much business as usual here.
2. We keep hearing the phrase ‘lock down agreement’, what does this mean exactly?
The Board made an announcement that they have all agreed not to sell shares for a 12 month period. The Board, therefore, cannot sell, nor indeed buy shares until April 2008. The reason for undertaking this option was that the Board stand as one and believe that a unified position is in the best interests of the Club. We believe that this approach underlines the stability that exists in the current structure of the Club.
3. Does the fact that Red& White Holdings made an official announcement about buying more shares mean that significant change is about to occur?
No. The Club continues to operate in the same way it always has done. However, any party buying shares in a company must follow the Disclosure and Transparency Rules. What this means is that if a party buys 3% of a company’s shares they must notify the issuing company, in this instance Arsenal, as soon as possible, no later than two trading days after the transaction. Then if more shares are bought, they must notify the Club every time their shares surpass each1% threshold. This is what has occurred with Red&White Holdings yesterday.
4. This recent trading has taken Red&White Holdings to 21%. Everyone is talking about 30% being a trigger and a takeover bid is imminent. What is the process and how is the Club dealing with this?
The Takeover Code is clear. Any individual or company (offeror) could make a bid for all the shares in Arsenal at anytime. Even if you didn’t own any shares in the Club you could make a bid, provided, of course, you had the money in place. However, that does not mean that the bid would be successful and indeed, as the Board is committed to retaining its shareholding, a bid would be expected to fail. You are correct that 30% is a significant threshold. If a party acquires 30% of the Club’s shares, under the Takeover Code, they are obliged to make an offer for all of Arsenal’s shares but to reiterate, members of the Board are resolute and wish to retain their shares. Therefore such a bid, as with the previous scenario would be unsuccessful. The case for Red&White Holdings is slightly different however, as when they made their first purchase of shares on August 30th, they publicly stated that they would not make an offer for shares in the Club. This statement effectively precludes Red&White Holdings from making an offer for all the shares of the Company for a six month period (subject to certain exceptions). So, if their shareholding were to increase to 30% at the end of February next year, they would be obliged to make an offer for all of the shares but again and sorry to be repetitive any such offer would not be successful.
5. So what would happen if Red&White Holdings acquired 30% or more of the Club’s shares before the end of February 2008?
According to the rules, the Takeover Panel (which is the regulatory body) would make Red&White Holdings sell down their shareholding so that they were not in this position. Again, an offer could not be made until the end of February 2008.
6. There has been speculation about Red&White Holdings buying Stan Kroenke’s stake in the football club. Do you have a view on this?
We cannot and will not speculate on someone else’s shareholding. However, Stan Kroenke has a 12.2% stake in the Club and if Red&White Holdings were to purchase those shares at this juncture, it would take them over the 30% threshold which would mean that they would have to sell down part of their shareholding.
7. I recognise that the Board has no intention of selling its shares but there has been much said and written about takeovers and how they work and the responsibilities of the Takeover Panel. Can you explain some of the basics to supporters?
The takeover of a company, loosely speaking, falls into one of two categories. The first is where a company or individual can bid to buy all the shares in a particular company from its shareholders with the Board’s recommendation, this is generally known as a “Recommended Offer”. The alternative method is without the Board’s recommendation, this is generally known as a “Hostile Takeover”. A company is taken over when 50.1% of all shares in the company are held by the buying party (either in the form of shares purchased or acceptances received) and at that point the buying party, would be able to appoint directors to the Board and would effectively control the company.
However, it is worth noting that sometimes a higher percentage of acceptances could be required if that is what has been specified in the offer. Also, all other conditions of the offer must be met, for example, passing the “fit and proper person” test under the Football Association Premier League Rules.
8. So at present, the Club does not need to offer a seat on the Board to large investors, say Red&White Holdings or Stan Kroenke?
The Board is free to appoint whomever they believe to be appropriate directors of Arsenal and at present we are very happy with the individuals that represent the Club at Board level.
9. Will there come a time when Board members have to sell their shares? There are some suggestions that the longer the Board retains their shares, the less valuable they become?
The Board is resolute in retaining its shares. They are the custodians of this club and will be doing everything to safeguard its future. The only way that they would be obligated to sell their shares is, for example, if Red&White Holdings or another entity acquired 90% of the Club. Given that the Board has 45.5% of the Club’s shareholding, this action is unlikely.
In terms of how shares are priced, that depends on the price that any party has purchased shares for in the last 12 months. Contrary to some reports, if a mandatory offer is made for all the shares of a company (by virtue of a person having gone through the 30% threshold) then the buying party has to offer the highest price that they have already paid for shares in the marketplace during the last 12 month period.
10. Where does the Arsenal Supporters’ Trust (AST) fit into all of this?
AST is an independent stakeholder which gives a voice to the small shareholders of the Club. We have an open dialogue with them as we do with a number of supporters’ groups. Where appropriate, we make amendments to our procedures to be of assistance, for example the format of the AGM. Should the Club become privately owned, the organisation would cease to exist.
11. Do you have a message to reassure supporters about the Club’s stability?
It is with great pride that the directors preside over the Club’s affairs. We are in great shape, as will be seen when we report our results next Monday. The stadium has been in operation for over a year now and on the financial front, we can compete with any club in the world. We believe that Arsene signing an extension to his contract reinforces our determination to challenge for top honours. At the end of the day, we are a football club that wants to win silverware. There is no better feeling than triumphing on the pitch. That is what gives us all the greatest of pleasure. As for the rest, yes, the exchange of shares may be a distraction and cause for speculation but we are unmoved in our position.
Anirudh
New member
this is outta topic but when i first learnt about Henry, i had the utmost respect for him..coz of his composure on the pitch and his skills
but lost all this respect when the fag transferred out to Barca..why? coz he got a higer pay...just when i thought there were players who played for the love of the sport and not the $$$
but Arsenal doesnt need him and they're still kickin ass big time
but lost all this respect when the fag transferred out to Barca..why? coz he got a higer pay...just when i thought there were players who played for the love of the sport and not the $$$
but Arsenal doesnt need him and they're still kickin ass big time
marcdadrummer
New member
JOSE MOURINHO - You'll BE MISSED.
did he quit or sacked?
did he quit or sacked?
iverson763
New member
well, for that matter, i hope barca goes empty handed this season :twisted:
fgl
Well-known member
Arsenal
-
Derby County
-
By Richard Clarke
Response and recovery are the cornerstones of any modern Premiership-winning campaign.
Arsenal may have put three goals past Tottenham and Sevilla this week in thrilling fashion but you get the impression that, for once, Arsène Wenger would settle for a sedate 1-0 when struggling Derby County visit Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
The likes of Fulham, West Ham, Manchester City and Sheffield United did more than Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham and Liverpool to derail Arsenal’s title bid last term. Billy Davies’ side are the image of their manager — dogmatic and determined — yet they’ll arrive without the pressure of expectation. After a busy week, the Premier League leaders must react once more for a different kind of challenge.
“It is important to take the points at home against teams like Derby, who fight to play in the Premier League, if you want to be successful,” said Wenger.
“It is a big game because last season we dropped points against these teams. This year we want to take points against them and we have achieved that up to now.
“We want to keep our home strength and it is a big weekend because it is one where we can stay in the position we are in. We also face another challenge to win a Premier League game after a big Champions League game after only three days recovery. We have done that after Sparta Prague and want to do that again.
“We are in a solid position in the League and do not want to damage that because we do not have completely the right focus.”
Jens Lehmann (elbow), Manu Eboue (ankle) and William Gallas (groin) are still out. The stirring 3-0 win over Sevilla cost Arsenal the services of Tomas Rosicky (hamstring), Alex Hleb (knee) and nearly Philippe Senderos. Fortunately the centre back recovered from his hip problem.
In his pre-match press conference, Wenger suggested he may rotate a little, throwing the names Theo Walcott and Eduardo into the hat.
But, right now, it does not seem to matter who plays. Arsenal are playing vibrant, attractive and winning football. After the swaggering midweek victory against the highly-rated Spaniards, Robin van Persie even went as far as saying his side were playing literally out of this world.
“When he said he feels like they are playing on a different planet, he just feels it is easy to play and your confidence is high,” remarked Wenger. “But the players know that can go quickly.
“It was only two months ago that people were saying we had no chance of finishing in the top four.
“At the moment, it is a pleasure to work with the players because they are really focused, really humble and love to play. The spirit is very high and I am in touch with my team. It's enjoyable.
“I have a massive belief in them, but how far they go from here is down to us. That is the challenge we have in front of us.
“The belief has been strengthened so far this season but we know we have not won anything.”
Yet.
-
Derby County
-
By Richard Clarke
Response and recovery are the cornerstones of any modern Premiership-winning campaign.
Arsenal may have put three goals past Tottenham and Sevilla this week in thrilling fashion but you get the impression that, for once, Arsène Wenger would settle for a sedate 1-0 when struggling Derby County visit Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
The likes of Fulham, West Ham, Manchester City and Sheffield United did more than Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham and Liverpool to derail Arsenal’s title bid last term. Billy Davies’ side are the image of their manager — dogmatic and determined — yet they’ll arrive without the pressure of expectation. After a busy week, the Premier League leaders must react once more for a different kind of challenge.
“It is important to take the points at home against teams like Derby, who fight to play in the Premier League, if you want to be successful,” said Wenger.
“It is a big game because last season we dropped points against these teams. This year we want to take points against them and we have achieved that up to now.
“We want to keep our home strength and it is a big weekend because it is one where we can stay in the position we are in. We also face another challenge to win a Premier League game after a big Champions League game after only three days recovery. We have done that after Sparta Prague and want to do that again.
“We are in a solid position in the League and do not want to damage that because we do not have completely the right focus.”
Jens Lehmann (elbow), Manu Eboue (ankle) and William Gallas (groin) are still out. The stirring 3-0 win over Sevilla cost Arsenal the services of Tomas Rosicky (hamstring), Alex Hleb (knee) and nearly Philippe Senderos. Fortunately the centre back recovered from his hip problem.
In his pre-match press conference, Wenger suggested he may rotate a little, throwing the names Theo Walcott and Eduardo into the hat.
But, right now, it does not seem to matter who plays. Arsenal are playing vibrant, attractive and winning football. After the swaggering midweek victory against the highly-rated Spaniards, Robin van Persie even went as far as saying his side were playing literally out of this world.
“When he said he feels like they are playing on a different planet, he just feels it is easy to play and your confidence is high,” remarked Wenger. “But the players know that can go quickly.
“It was only two months ago that people were saying we had no chance of finishing in the top four.
“At the moment, it is a pleasure to work with the players because they are really focused, really humble and love to play. The spirit is very high and I am in touch with my team. It's enjoyable.
“I have a massive belief in them, but how far they go from here is down to us. That is the challenge we have in front of us.
“The belief has been strengthened so far this season but we know we have not won anything.”
Yet.
fgl
Well-known member
Match Report
Barclays Premier League
Emirates Stadium
Saturday, September 22, 2007, 3pm
Arsenal5Diaby 10, Adebayor 25, 50, 80, Fabregas 70
Derby County0
By Richard Clarke
It will be worth saving your memories of this week in a mental scrapbook. Rarely have any Arsenal side put in three performances so cultured, so comprehensive and so controlled.
This afternoon, Arsène Wenger’s men followed up Saturday’s superb comeback at Tottenham and Wednesday’s wonderful display against Sevilla by dismantling Derby 5-0 at Emirates Stadium.
Long-range net-busters by Abou Diaby and Cesc Fabregas sandwiched a couple of goals from Emmanuel Adebayor. The tall Togolese frontman completed a deserved hat-trick 11 minutes from time.
The scoreline was not flattering in any way. Arsenal were five goals better than Derby today but then, on this form, they are able to put daylight between themselves and most sides in Europe.
At full time, Wenger’s side were sitting on top of the Premier League, four points clear of their nearest rivals.
There will be tougher tests than this but, at this moment, you would not back against them staying there.
With games coming thick and fast, Wenger had promised rotation before kick-off. In the end, it was Robin van Persie who stepped off the merry-go-round so Eduardo came in for only his second Premier League start.
Wednesday’s win had seen Tomas Rosicky (hamstring) and Alex Hleb (knee) join Jens Lehmann (elbow), Manu Eboue (ankle) and William Gallas (groin) on the injured list. Their replacements were Diaby and Theo Walcott.
After the three-goal heroics of the previous two matches there was a sense this game might suffer from ‘After the Lord Mayor’s show’ syndrome. Relegation-favourites Derby arrived in their usual white and black kit but perhaps banana-skin yellow would have been a better colour. The Premiership was expecting a tonking but football is rarely that straight-forward.
Except, of course, when Arsenal hit their groove so quickly.
Wenger’s men began this afternoon’s clash like they had only just left the pitch from Wednesday’s win over Sevilla. They were sharp, direct and their passes had a magnetic attraction to team-mates.
In the opening stages, Walcott raced down the left and presented a teasing cross on the foot of the onrushing Adebayor. Unfortunately he sliced it wide. The respite would be short.
In the 10th minute, Diaby picked up a loose ball on the corner of the Derby area, skipped around a couple of challenges and let fly. His shot arrowed into the top corner with Bywater helpless.
A couple of minutes later, the Frenchman appeared in the same place with the same opportunity. The crowd implored him to shoot again. He obliged and Bywater allowed the ball to bounce from his grasp before the Derby defence managed to clear.
The expected Derby battle-plan — hustle and tackle — was not being implemented. It meant Arsenal had ample time to play their football. That is something that Spurs and Sevilla had done to their cost over the previous seven days.
Walcott had a shout for penalty when Claude Davis bundled him over. But the cushion of the second was not far away.
In the 25th minute, Cesc Fabregas clipped a clever ball through for Adebayor. He advanced, skipped around Bywater and planted his shot into the net. This was simple, effective football.
It might have been three just before the half-hour but Eduardo miscued a shot at the near post then nearly managed to get his head on Walcott’s cross. The winger had a go himself five minutes before the break but Bywater gathered at the second attempt.
To this point, Derby had offered virtually nothing. Their honest endeavour had forced a couple of corners and Kenny Miller nearly weaved his way through in the final minute of the first half but that was about it.
In injury time Eduardo met Fabregas’ corner with a firm downward header only for Bywater to expertly turn the ball over the bar. Seconds later the half-time whistle went. Arsenal led by two but it could have been double that.
The visitors had little opportunity to change their situation after the interval. Diaby had already seen his shot blocked when, five minutes in, Matt Oakley tugged back Eduardo in the area. Adebayor stepped with confidence to stroke home the penalty — his fifth goal of the campaign.
Toure nearly thundered home a header from a Fabregas cross shortly afterwards. Steve Howard trundled an effort wide on the hour but, to be honest, Derby were whistling in the wind this afternoon.
Eduardo set up Fabregas for a rocket of a fourth goal with 20 minutes to go. Before the restart, the Spaniard was substituted in favour of Denilson. Emirates Stadium gave him an immense ovation.
It was now party time. The game was won, it was now a matter of whether Arsenal would have enough energy to add to their lead and enough concentration to stop Derby grabbing some consolation.
Eleven minutes from time Adebayor chested down a long ball forward, evaded his marker and stroked his hat-trick goal past Bywater.
The 23-year-old might have taken his personal tally to four in the dying minutes but Derby charged down his half-chances.
It was one of the few things that did not go right for Arsenal and Adebayor this afternoon.
Barclays Premier League
Emirates Stadium
Saturday, September 22, 2007, 3pm
Arsenal5Diaby 10, Adebayor 25, 50, 80, Fabregas 70
Derby County0
By Richard Clarke
It will be worth saving your memories of this week in a mental scrapbook. Rarely have any Arsenal side put in three performances so cultured, so comprehensive and so controlled.
This afternoon, Arsène Wenger’s men followed up Saturday’s superb comeback at Tottenham and Wednesday’s wonderful display against Sevilla by dismantling Derby 5-0 at Emirates Stadium.
Long-range net-busters by Abou Diaby and Cesc Fabregas sandwiched a couple of goals from Emmanuel Adebayor. The tall Togolese frontman completed a deserved hat-trick 11 minutes from time.
The scoreline was not flattering in any way. Arsenal were five goals better than Derby today but then, on this form, they are able to put daylight between themselves and most sides in Europe.
At full time, Wenger’s side were sitting on top of the Premier League, four points clear of their nearest rivals.
There will be tougher tests than this but, at this moment, you would not back against them staying there.
With games coming thick and fast, Wenger had promised rotation before kick-off. In the end, it was Robin van Persie who stepped off the merry-go-round so Eduardo came in for only his second Premier League start.
Wednesday’s win had seen Tomas Rosicky (hamstring) and Alex Hleb (knee) join Jens Lehmann (elbow), Manu Eboue (ankle) and William Gallas (groin) on the injured list. Their replacements were Diaby and Theo Walcott.
After the three-goal heroics of the previous two matches there was a sense this game might suffer from ‘After the Lord Mayor’s show’ syndrome. Relegation-favourites Derby arrived in their usual white and black kit but perhaps banana-skin yellow would have been a better colour. The Premiership was expecting a tonking but football is rarely that straight-forward.
Except, of course, when Arsenal hit their groove so quickly.
Wenger’s men began this afternoon’s clash like they had only just left the pitch from Wednesday’s win over Sevilla. They were sharp, direct and their passes had a magnetic attraction to team-mates.
In the opening stages, Walcott raced down the left and presented a teasing cross on the foot of the onrushing Adebayor. Unfortunately he sliced it wide. The respite would be short.
In the 10th minute, Diaby picked up a loose ball on the corner of the Derby area, skipped around a couple of challenges and let fly. His shot arrowed into the top corner with Bywater helpless.
A couple of minutes later, the Frenchman appeared in the same place with the same opportunity. The crowd implored him to shoot again. He obliged and Bywater allowed the ball to bounce from his grasp before the Derby defence managed to clear.
The expected Derby battle-plan — hustle and tackle — was not being implemented. It meant Arsenal had ample time to play their football. That is something that Spurs and Sevilla had done to their cost over the previous seven days.
Walcott had a shout for penalty when Claude Davis bundled him over. But the cushion of the second was not far away.
In the 25th minute, Cesc Fabregas clipped a clever ball through for Adebayor. He advanced, skipped around Bywater and planted his shot into the net. This was simple, effective football.
It might have been three just before the half-hour but Eduardo miscued a shot at the near post then nearly managed to get his head on Walcott’s cross. The winger had a go himself five minutes before the break but Bywater gathered at the second attempt.
To this point, Derby had offered virtually nothing. Their honest endeavour had forced a couple of corners and Kenny Miller nearly weaved his way through in the final minute of the first half but that was about it.
In injury time Eduardo met Fabregas’ corner with a firm downward header only for Bywater to expertly turn the ball over the bar. Seconds later the half-time whistle went. Arsenal led by two but it could have been double that.
The visitors had little opportunity to change their situation after the interval. Diaby had already seen his shot blocked when, five minutes in, Matt Oakley tugged back Eduardo in the area. Adebayor stepped with confidence to stroke home the penalty — his fifth goal of the campaign.
Toure nearly thundered home a header from a Fabregas cross shortly afterwards. Steve Howard trundled an effort wide on the hour but, to be honest, Derby were whistling in the wind this afternoon.
Eduardo set up Fabregas for a rocket of a fourth goal with 20 minutes to go. Before the restart, the Spaniard was substituted in favour of Denilson. Emirates Stadium gave him an immense ovation.
It was now party time. The game was won, it was now a matter of whether Arsenal would have enough energy to add to their lead and enough concentration to stop Derby grabbing some consolation.
Eleven minutes from time Adebayor chested down a long ball forward, evaded his marker and stroked his hat-trick goal past Bywater.
The 23-year-old might have taken his personal tally to four in the dying minutes but Derby charged down his half-chances.
It was one of the few things that did not go right for Arsenal and Adebayor this afternoon.
subversion
Moderator
after yesterday's Man U - Chelsea clash, i feel the latter team is all about the manager at the helm... i'm not supporting any teams in particular but thank you Man U for showing snobs the place they belong: the losing end.
iverson763
New member
man yoo aren't any lesser snobs..
jeepers
New member
some way or another, i've this feeling that this is gonna be arsenal's season.
they're gonna win everything!
except epl, fa cup and champions' league of course! :twisted:
okay la jokes aside, arsenal look like serious contenders for the treble this season. no squad depth though - that's the only thing i can see that would actually hurt arsenal.
i get goosebumps whenever i see arsenal play. simply out of this world man. maybe even out of this universe.
they're gonna win everything!
except epl, fa cup and champions' league of course! :twisted:
okay la jokes aside, arsenal look like serious contenders for the treble this season. no squad depth though - that's the only thing i can see that would actually hurt arsenal.
i get goosebumps whenever i see arsenal play. simply out of this world man. maybe even out of this universe.
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