Arsenal FC 2009/2010

[Tony Adams]

Silvestre - I feel fine after Arsenal debut

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archiv ... rsenal-bow

Mikael Silvestre reported no ill-effects after making his first appearance in an Arsenal shirt on Monday night.

The French international was hampered by a muscular strain after arriving from Manchester United in August and, since recovering, has been an unused substitute in three successive first-team games.

In an effort to regain his match sharpness and push for a first-team place, Silvestre completed a full 90 minutes against Stoke City at Underhill. The 31-year-old looked calm and composed as Neil Banfield's side earned a 3-2 victory.

"I feel good," declared Silvestre afterwards. "I got through the 90 minutes without any discomfort or pain and physically I felt at the same level as my team-mates so it felt good.

"The boss [Arsène Wenger] asked me if I wanted to play because it was a long time since I last played competitively, back in August or July with United. Before I get back with the first team it was good for me to play and get something other than training.

"It was a perfect run-out before playing with the first team. It is a good level in the Reserve League and getting to know my young team-mates was a good experience.

"It is not a surprise [to see how good the young players are] because most of the first team are 20, 21-year-olds so the quality is always there. I expected the same quality in the Reserves and most of them train with the first team so I knew them already.

"It is the way the Club is set up," added Silvestre. "Everything is done to play good attacking football so the players enjoy it and you just have to make sure you give 100 per cent in the challenge because if you don’t get the ball you can't play the nice football."

[Tony Adams]

Banfield - We'll help youngsters find clubs

http://www.arsenal.com/news/reserves-ne ... find-clubs

Three young Gunners have gone on trial at Nottingham Forest in search of regular first-team football.

Defenders Abu Ogogo and Paul Rodgers and midfielder James Dunne have been mainstays of Neil Banfield's Reserve squad over the past two seasons but their path to the first team is blocked by a string of top-class internationals.

The trio missed out on last month's Carling Cup victory over Sheffield United but the Club's mission to help each and every youngster forge a career in professional football has seen the players head north to the City Ground.

"The Club has made the decision that they will let them go out and trial with other clubs," Banfield told Arsenal.com. "It is between us and the players and how we see their future.

"Nottingham Forest have said they will have a look at them for 10 days and let them play in their reserves, with a view maybe to offering them a contract. We try to help them every way we can.

"At the moment we don't know what the all-round situation is but they have been allowed to go up there to work with [Forest manager] Colin Calderwood.

"We like to look out for all our players at the Club and if it maybe isn’t going to happen for them here we try to get them a place at another club as soon as we can to help them on their way in their career."

Even if Ogogo, Rodgers and Dunne are not offered contracts by Forest, it doesn't necessarily mean they have reached the end of the road at Arsenal. As Banfield points out, the Club's coaching staff will give them every chance to prove themselves.

"It's not the end for them here," he said. "If it doesn’t work out for them at Forest they will come back and carry on training and we will try to help them. If they play well then who knows but we are just giving them another opportunity.

"If they come back they will be available for selection. We have got quite a few lads that we feel might have to find another club to get their first team experience so we allow them to go out but if they come back they are straight back into the fold.

"They carry on working and then maybe the trip away will spur them on here or they will have another go at another club."

[Tony Adams]

Banfield: 'I thought Bischoff did very well'

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archiv ... very-well-

"I am very pleased with the way they played and also with their application. The pace that we moved the ball around and the movement of some of the players was very good I thought. I’m really pleased."

on the contrast of styles...
"Well you know what you are going to get with Stoke. They are a tough hard side and they worked at their game, they made their tackles and you have to get up and get on with that."

on over-zealous tackling...
"I don’t know. I thought once or twice we were quite fortunate to get a few of the free-kicks in the first half. They went for the ball and I don’t think there was ever any malice. They were just competitive but that is always what you are going to get with Stoke."

om sticking to footballing principles...
"It is vital, we spoke about that in the dressing room. It is the ethos at the club, it is the way they have been brought up to play. They keep playing quick, passing football when they compete with sides like this and hopefully they come out on top."

on Amaury Bischoff's debut...
"First of all I thought he did really well. We spoke to him at half-time and he wanted to keep playing and I’m never going to stop anyone from playing. We asked him to do another 10 or 15 minutes and then we brought him off from there."

on Francis Coquelin’s first Arsenal goal...
"It was a good one but to be honest I was shouting to him to pass it and play one-twos on the edge of the box so what do I know?! He has smashed it in with his left foot, a great goal."

on right-back Luke Ayling's first Reserve team start...
"Luke has had a series of really consistent performances for Steve [Bould] in the Under-18s and we spoke earlier about it and he has deserved his chance. The opportunity came up and Steve recommended Luke. He said that he’d been training really well and playing well and that is how it should be. He has got his chance and he has played well tonight. He is composed, I think the types of players we are producing now are all really comfortable on the ball, that is the philosophy of the club. You need good, technical players to play the way we want to play."

on Mikael Silvestre's contribution...
"It is fantastic. He has won so many trophies but he is still here flying out on the edge of the box and blocking shots. He is a credit to our profession and as a senior pro, it was first class, absolutely first class."

on facing West Ham next...
"It is always a good game against West Ham, it will be competitive and it will be hard but that is what this league is about. It gives them the step away from Championship football where they will have to go out on loan which is their next stage. It is all about stages and it will be a tough game at West Ham but hopefully we’ll go out and do well."

[Tony Adams]

Loan Watch: Traore shines in Porstmouth win

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archiv ... tmouth-win

Seven Arsenal players are currently away on loan, three of whom, Armand Traore, Kerrea Gilbert and Nacer Barazite, remain on British soil. Eighteen-year-old left-back Traore is the only loanee cutting his teeth in the Premier League while Barazite and Gilbert are further down the English system, with Derby County and Leicester City respectively.

Overseas, the Gunners have players in Italy, Spain and Holland. Philippe Senderos, who has made 115 appearances for the Gunners, will spend the season with Serie A giants AC Milan. Fellow centre-half Håvard Nordtveit has joined Spanish Segunda Division outfit UD Salamanca along with Pedro Botelho while Vincent van den Berg is out on his second loan spell in as many years, this time with FC Zwolle of the Eerste Divisie in Holland.

Read on for all our loanees' latest exploits.

Armand Traore
Traore played almost the whole game as Portsmouth beat Stoke City 2-1 at Fratton Park. A goal apiece from strike duo Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe, either side of a Ricardo Fuller goal, was enough to hand the hosts victory. The Frenchman, once again deployed on the left-wing, was influential throughout and tried his luck from distance on two occasions. He was eventually replaced by Hermann Hreidarsson in stoppage time and received a standing ovation when leaving the pitch. Harry Redknapp’s men climbed to seventh in the Premier League as a result of the victory.

Nacer Barazite
Barazite played 62 minutes of Derby’s hard-fought 2-1 victory at Carrow Road. The result stretched the Rams’ unbeaten run to six games but they had Norwich ‘keeper David Marshall to thank after his howler allowed Nathan Ellington to roll the winning goal into an empty net five minutes from time. The visitors were leading through a Rob Hulse header until the 50th minute when ex-Manchester United stopper Roy Carroll was dismissed for a professional foul on Leroy Lita. Sammy Clingan fired home the penalty but Ellington swooped to secure the victory.

Kerrea Gilbert
Gilbert racked up another 90 minutes for Leicester as they cemented top spot with a 3-2 victory over Huddersfield. The game was goalless at half time but a barnstorming second half saw Matt Fryatt hit his eighth and ninth goals of the season to hand the hosts a 2-0 lead. A stirring comeback ensued with the Terriers drawing level midway throught the second half but Lloyd Dyer struck in the 90th minute to finally secure all three points for the Foxes. Gilbert was one of four Leicester plays to pick up a booking in the match; he was cautioned in the 27th minute.

Havard Nordtveit
UD Salamanca were knocked off the top of Liga Adelante as they suffered their first defeat of the season at Gimnastica de Tarragonna. Nordtveit was once again selected in an unfamiliar midfield berth for Los Charros but Botelho did not feature. A goal in each half was enough to hand the hosts a 2-0 victory and UD Salamanca now sit second.

[Tony Adams]

Injury News

http://www.arsenal.com/news/injury-news

Alex Song
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Arsène Wenger could have Alex Song back in his squad for Saturday's trip to Sunderland. The Cameroon international suffered a hip injury during the Carling Cup victory over Sheffield United last month and suffered a relapse after making the bench against Hull last weekend. Song may return to action at the Stadium of Light. "We have no new injuries and we might have Song back in the squad for Sunderland," revealed Wenger at his pre-match press conference.

Abou Diaby
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Abou Diaby (thigh) will not play until after the international break. "Diaby is very close now. He is two weeks or one week away. I think after the international break Diaby is ready to play" said Wenger.

Tomas Rosicky
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Wenger hopes to have his Czech midfielder back before the New Year. "I monitor Rosicky's progress very closely but at the moment it is very difficult to put a date on his comeback. We are not pessimistic about the future of his career but we still need more patience. If he comes back before Christmas we have done very well but I think we can achieve that, that in December he can play again."

Eduardo
Thursday, October 2, 2008
The striker is continuing his recovery from a fractured leg. "Eduardo is doing very well but is not close to play," said Wenger. "Eduardo will be OK before Christmas, of course."

Amaury Bischoff
Monday, September 29, 2008
In late July, Wenger said that Bischoff could be back in training in "two to three months". “The injury is getting better bit by bit,” said Bischoff. “I've been doing ball work for five or six days now and I am running three times a week. I'm nearly pain-free and hope to be back as soon as possible," said the 21-year-old on September 5.

[Tony Adams]

Arsenal 3-2 Stoke City - Reserves - Match Report

http://youngguns.wordpress.com/2008/10/ ... ch-report/

Neil Banfield accused some of his players of ‘thinking they are better than they are’ last week against Aston Villa, so this evenings Reserves League South clash at home to Stoke was more about restoring pride than the points.

The second string were boosted with first team debutant’s Mikael Silvestre and Amuary Bischoff, Francis Coquelin also returned. Szczesny replaced Mannone between the sticks, whilst injuries and International duty left a depleted number of bodies for selection.


Szczesny
Ayling - Bartley - Silvestre - Gibbs
Randall (c) - Coquelin - Wilshere
Bischoff
Simpson - Fonte

Subs - Shea - Steer - Eastmond - Frimpong - Sunu


Match Report - Arsenal 3-2 Stoke City
Arsenal won the kick off and showed some neat touches in the opening seconds, a classy jinking run from Bischoff gave his confidence a much needed boost, before Stoke established themselves.

Two firm challenges on Randall and Fonte saw the youngsters in a physical battle, as City adopted a similar type policy to that of Aston Villa last week.

The early pressure would pay off for the visitors, who brought their hosts back down to earth with a thump. Pericard barged off Randall outside the area, before unleashing a curling pile driver from 25 yards into the roof of the net. A simply stunning effort to hand Stoke the lead, the second time in as many games the Gunners had gone behind early

Goal - Vincent Pericard (3)

Rui Fonte, Mark Randall and Amaury Bischoff both got stuck into tackles, but the hosts were being dominated by the much stronger Potters. Szczesny was forced into a positive punch via Pugh’s deep cross, yet Arsenal’s performance was very flat.

Jack Wilshere made two tenacious tackles before captain Randall was booked, although Fonte had mastered the art of drawing free-kicks from Davies and Shawcross.

As the half hour mark approached Banfield’s shouts from the touchline seemed to work, a complete step up in play created openings for Fonte, but he missed two very good chances. Rui first volleyed Randall’s deflected fizzed pass over, before seeing Hamilton unbelievably save the Portuguese strikers side footed effort from 3 yards.

Randall’s excellent passing was helping prize a gap in the middle, but poor control from Simpson killed two promising moves. Bischoff’s lovely footwork and intelligent movement drew Stoke’s defence across the pitch, but Amaruy’s cross was cleared away.

Eventually the goal would come as the visitors tired, Ayling fed Coquelin on the edge of the area, he was allowed time to turn before crashing a left footed drive into the bottom corner to level proceedings. His first goal for the club - chalked up in a brilliant manner.

Goal - Francis Coquelin (32)

A quickfire move involving Silvestre, Gibbs and Bischoff allowed space for Wilshere on the edge of the box, his lashed shot could have easily deflected in, but the Yellows were holding on. Seconds later Bischoff was released down the middle, but the elegant play-maker looked short on speed and fitness, he still managed a curling shot, yet it ended up in the stands.

Pericard’s deft flick around the corner would have set up Soares for a simple finish, Mikael Silvestre’s right boot had other ideas, Szczesny pounced on the loose ball.

Silvestre then used his experience to block a thunderbolt from Wedderburn, the defending was much more confident after the goal. Andrew Davies dived in with studs showing on Wilshere, the free kick would prove vital despite the severity of the challenge.

Randall lobbed the ball into the wall, Danny Pugh was adjudged to have handled, and a shock penalty was awarded. Jay Simpson stepped up and wrong footed the keeper for 2-1, his second penalty of the season.

Goal - Jay Simpson (44)

Half Time - Arsenal 2-1 Stoke City
Banfield scrapped plans to replace new boy Bischoff at the break, meaning he would gain valuable minutes in his rehabilitation, but Emmanuel Frimpong would have to wait a little longer for more Reserves experience.

Wilshere’s party tricks were slowly drawing out the City back-line, finally working an angle to send Bischoff through, he dragged his effort across and behind for a corner. Hamilton flapped at the resulting set piece, Simpson failed to capitalise.

Two extremely well judged clearances from Szczesny backed up his reputation as one of the best young keepers in the country, as Arsenal began to hit cruise control.

On 56 minutes Bischoff was replaced by Sunu, the Frenchman came in and out of the game in bursts, but looked overall a very tidy young player.

Wilshere’s running power was becoming a huge problem as Stoke struggled, Simpson again failed to finish after a sweeping run from the 16-year-old. Composed play from Silvestre, Sunu and Ayling showed how the tempo had fallen away, it was just a matter of how many.

A flowing move of 50 passes ended in a delightful Sunu run and shot, the corner gave the opportunity for a change, Frimpong replacing Coquelin.

With 20 minutes left it was all one-way traffic towards the visitors goal, until a lapse at the back cost the youngsters. A punt down the middle caught Silvestre cold, Pericard’s shot was parried into the path of Danny Pugh who slotted home.

Goal - Danny Pugh (70)

The goal seemed to upset the Gunners who looked for an instant reply from Wilshere’s left peg, yet little did they know things would get even better. A childish swipe at Sunu saw the Potters down to 10 men and a striker light, handing the momentum back to the Young Guns.

Finally, the pressure would toll on new boys Stoke with Fonte the recipient, sloppy play from Shawcross allowed Rui the simple job of nipping in front of the former United man before nutmegging the on rushing goalkeeper for 3-2.

Goal - Rui Fonte (85)

Arsenal made sure they sealed the three points by moving the ball among themselves in stoppage time, it finished Arsenal 3 Stoke City 2, with Neil Banfield surly being a happier man than last week.

[delfino_1936]

good articles tony, thanks for that

[Tony Adams]

good articles tony, thanks for that

always a pleasure

[Jimmy]

Silvestre - It was a 'perfect run-out' for me

By Chris Harris

Mikael Silvestre reported no ill-effects after making his first appearance in an Arsenal shirt on Monday night.

The French international was hampered by a muscular strain after arriving from Manchester United in August and, since recovering, has been an unused substitute in three successive first-team games.

In an effort to regain his match sharpness and push for a first-team place, Silvestre completed a full 90 minutes against Stoke City at Underhill. The 31-year-old looked calm and composed as Neil Banfield's side earned a 3-2 victory.

"I feel good," declared Silvestre afterwards. "I got through the 90 minutes without any discomfort or pain and physically I felt at the same level as my team-mates so it felt good.

"The boss [Arsène Wenger] asked me if I wanted to play because it was a long time since I last played competitively, back in August or July with United. Before I get back with the first team it was good for me to play and get something other than training.

"It was a perfect run-out before playing with the first team. It is a good level in the Reserve League and getting to know my young team-mates was a good experience.

"It is not a surprise [to see how good the young players are] because most of the first team are 20, 21-year-olds so the quality is always there. I expected the same quality in the Reserves and most of them train with the first team so I knew them already.

"It is the way the Club is set up," added Silvestre. "Everything is done to play good attacking football so the players enjoy it and you just have to make sure you give 100 per cent in the challenge because if you don’t get the ball you can't play the nice football."

[Tony Adams]

Amaury Bischoff - Great On The Pitch, Not So Good Of It

Amaury Bischoff made his much anticipated Arsenal debut on Monday evening, but whilst many left the ground or turned off their streams/televisions, little did they know of what was going on outside Underhill.

Bischoff played a little under an hour on his first run out of the season, operating in his favourite ‘number 10′ position behind strikers Rui Fonte and Jay Simpson. Whilst it was his first game in several months, the Portuguese Under 21 International showed some neat, positive and intelligent touches, but drifted in and out of proceedings as time ticked down.

Neil Banfield spoke about his technical qualities before and after the game, yet after the full time whistle yesterday - Amaury proved he is already adapting to life in London.

Wearing a thick woolly hat and a large coat, the 21-year-old left Underhill only to climb aboard the wrong coach. He sat in the Stoke City team bus, clearly oblivious to the fans who were shouting instructions to the Frenchman.

Eventually he realised his mistake, and showed good spirits as he finally found the Gunners coach, even enthusing in a joyful spirit - ‘Fucking Hell!’.

It turned out to be an interesting night for the youngsters, with Jay Simpson leaving the dressing room late and being forced to walk home. In all fairness to the striker, he was more than happy to chat about all matters Arsenal with the fans, after all, he is a Gooner.

Away from those antics, Mikael Silvestre applauded the performances of the Reserve players, and confirmed he came through the 90 minutes without any problems.

Luke Ayling, Francis Coquelin and the aforementioned Silvestre were all recipient’s of praise from the manager, you can read what was said Here.

that is fucking hilarious

[delfino_1936]

[Tony Adams]

Moussa Dembele

Moussa Dembele’s agent has played down speculation that the striker could be involved in a tug of war between Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester City.

The AZ Alkmaar forward has made European football’s movers and shakers sit up and take notice thanks to a wonder goal he scored recently against Willem II.

The latest YouTube sensation was reportedly watched by representatives from Arsenal and City during a subsequent match against Sparta Rotterdam.

However the Belgium international’s agent, Patrick Vervoort, insisted that he has not heard directly from either side.

“I often hear that these kind of clubs are sat in the stands but I do not know whether they are just watching Moussa,” Vervoort said.

“It may be that they have just come to take a look. The fact is that his goal against the Tilburgers has gone around the world so undoubtedly it will attract more interest.”

http://sport.setanta.com/en/Sport/News/ ... n-rumours/

Youtube
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=OWRcuITQRSg

http://uk.youtube.com/watch

[Tony Adams]

Wenger planning £8m raid for France Under-21 midfielder Matuidi
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger wants £8m-rated Blaise Matuidi to bolster his midfield.
Gunners scout Gilles Grimandi watched the France Under-21 midfielder playing for Saint-Etienne against Monaco last weekend, reports the Sun.
Wenger made an initial approach for Matuidi, aged 21, in the summer but St Etienne refused to open talks.

Arsenal are set to make a fresh bid after Matuidi turned down the offer of an improved contract, which still has more than three years to run.
Grimandi has also been monitoring Matuidi's team-mate Mahamadou Dabo. The full-back is available for around £3m.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/footba ... tuidi.html

[Tony Adams]

Cesc Fabregas could leave Arsenal for Barcelona if the Gunners finish the season empty-handed

The midfielder said 'it would be a dream to return to Barcelona' and is keen to reignite a partnership with the world's most in-form player Lionel Messi after they played together in the same Barca youth team.

His comments will be a major concern to Arsene Wenger as the Arsenal manager seeks to end a run of three seasons without silverware.

Fabregas, who underlined his importance to Arsenal with a last-minute equaliser in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Sunderland, insisted it was his choice to stay with the Gunners last summer and that he has not abandoned the logic that kept him in north London.
His preference is to help his side become more competitive and, ultimately, win silverware.

But if he doesn't see Arsenal matching his personal ambition by the end of the season then he would endorse any bids from Spain.

Fabregas said: 'Right now I'm fine at Arsenal but I cannot deny that to return and play for Barca would be a dream come true.

'I chose to stay at the club last summer and right now I'm totally focused on the reason for that decision which was to try and win trophies.

'We'll see how things have gone by the end of the season. The fact is that Barça are playing cinematic football right now and it's fantastic to see that the other day when they beat Atlético Madrid 6-1 they had seven or eight guys who, like me, came through the club's youth system.

'Messi is the best player in the world and he has been for a long time, never mind what people used to think about Ronaldinho in his prime. During Messi's football life I've seen him do incredible things on a football pitch, as a kid or now as a leader of the Barça team.'

Fabregas also admitted that he is missing playing alongside midfielder Alex Hleb who left the Gunners for the Nou Camp last summer.


He added: 'Every week I chat to Alex Hleb on the phone because he's the guy I most miss at Arsenal. He's a friend and I also loved playing with him.

'He always looks for you with a pass and if you give him the ball you can always count on getting it back at the right time.'

Arsenal know that Fabregas has no intention of sulking and demanding a transfer like former Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov, and he remains optimistic about trophy prospects this season.

But playing a bit-part role for Spain in the summer as they won Euro 2008 frustrated him as he didn't command a regular place early on and it re-emphasised his desire to win cups.

In an interview with a Spanish radio station, he added: 'There was a benefit for Arsenal in that the fact I didn't play a full role in the summer for Spain in Austria-Switzerland.

'I started the pre-season like a house on fire and was in really good shape, full of the joys of the world after winning the Euro until the injury slowed me down. I had a couple of weeks off and now I'm getting back to my top level.'

Admitting that he intended to spend today's flight from Barcelona - where he's spent two days with his parents on the Costa Brava - to Madrid with Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Carles Puyol quizzing them about Barça's form, Fabregas also spoke of his role in saving a point for Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.

He said: 'It's only the second time in my entire career that I've scored with a header! The first time was only in Euro 2008 in the summer.'

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/footba ... anded.html

[delfino_1936]

a great finish by Dembele

[delfino_1936]

2 games to be completed, then we have the big one!!!!!!!!!


need a big win vs the scum please

[Jimmy]

Mixed fortunes for Arsenal's internationals

A host of Arsenal players are away on international duty, swapping their usual shirts for those of their respective countries.
Arsenal.com will bring you all the news of how they got on, starting with a run down of last weekend's World Cup qualifiers.


Theo Walcott
England 5-1 Kazakhstan, Saturday 11th, Belarus v England, October 15th.
Theo Walcott started for England as Fabio Capello's team maintained their 100 per cent start to their World Cup qualifying campaign. After a frustrating first half Rio Ferdinand broke the deadlock with a header and Alexandr Kuchma's own goal gave the Three Lions some breathing space. A mistake from Ashley Cole let in Zhambyl Kukeyev but England responded with three goals in the last 13 minutes from Wayne Rooney (2) and Jermain Defoe. Walcott caused plenty of problems in the first 25 minutes but faded slightly and was replaced by David Beckham with 11 minutes remaining.


Bacary Sagna, William Gallas, Gael Clichy, Samir Nasri (stand-by)
Romania 2-2 France, October 11th, France v Tunisia, October 14th.
Bacary Sagna played a full 90 minutes as France fought back to rescue a point in Romania. Les Bleus were reeling when Florentin Petre and Dorin Goian put the hosts two up inside 17 minutes but Frank Ribery reduced the deficit before half-time and Yoann Gourcuff equalised with 21 minutes left. France sit fourth in their qualifying group, two points behind co-leaders Serbia and Lithuania. William Gallas missed Saturday's game with an injury while Gael Clichy


Cesc Fabregas
Estonia 0-3 Spain, October 11th, Belgium v Spain, October 14th.
Cesc Fabregas came off the bench for the final 20 minutes as Spain continued their flying start to World Cup qualification. The European champions top Group Five with maximum points from three games after Juanito, David Villa and Carles Puyol saw off Estonia. Spain have yet to concede but face a tricky trip to Belgium in midweek.


Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Eboue
Ivory Coast 3-0 Madagascar, October 11th.
Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue both started as Ivory Coast strengthened their grip on their preliminary qualifying group with a comfortable 3-0 victory against Madagascar. Boubacar Sanogo's double put the Elephants in charge before the hour mark and Salomon Kalou sealed the points in the 66th minute. Eboue was replaced after 63 minutes and Toure was substituted nine minutes later.


Robin van Persie
Netherlands 2-0 Iceland, October 11th, Norway v Netherlands, October 15th.
Robin van Persie missed Holland's comfortable win over Iceland after picking up an injury in training. The Dutch shrugged off the loss of the Arsenal forward thanks to a goal in either half from Joris Mathijsen and Klaas Jan Huntelaar. Holland top Group Nine with two wins out of two. Scotland are two points adrift in second place but have played a game more.


Carlos Vela
Jamaica 1-0 Mexico, October 11th, Canada v Mexico, October 15th.
Carlos Vela played a full 90 minutes but could not stop Mexico suffering a setback in their bid to qualify from the North, Central America and Caribbean section. The Arsenal man picked up a yellow card as Ricardo Fuller scored the only goal of the game for Jamaica. Mexico are still well-placed to reach the World Cup Finals; only goal difference separates them from preliminary group leaders Honduras.


Alex Song
Cameroon 5-0 Mauritius, October 11th.
Alex Song was not involved as Cameroon opened up a seven-point lead at the top of their preliminary group with a 5-0 win over Mauritius. Samuel Eto'o opened the scoring in the 26th minute and added a second from the penalty spot two minutes after the break. Albert Meyong Ze also netted a brace either side of Jean Makoun's 71st-minute strike.


Johan Djourou
Switzerland 2-1 Latvia, October 11th, Greece v Switzerland, October 15th.
Johan Djourou played the first half as Switzerland got their World Cup qualifying campaign back on track with a 2-1 win against Latvia. The Arsenal defender was replaced by Mario Eggiman at the break with the game goalless. Switzerland made the breakthrough just after the hour mark thanks to captain Alexander Frei and, although Deniss Ivanovs grabbed an equaliser, Blaise N'KUfo scored the winner with 17 minutes left. Despite their win, Switzerland still trail group leaders Greece by five points after three matches.


Lukasz Fabianski
Poland 2-1 Czech Republic, October 11th, Slovakia v Poland, October 15th.
Lukasz Fabianski was an unused substitute as Poland went top of Group Three with an impressive 2-1 win over the Czech Republic. Pawel Brozek and Jakub Blaszczykowski scored either side of half-time to put the Poles in charge and, although Martin Fenin struck three minutes from time, Fabianski's team held on. They are ahead of Slovenia on goal difference after picking up seven points from three games.


Nicklas Bendtner
Denmark 3-0 Malta, October 11th.
Nicklas Bendtner was not involved as Denmark opened up a two-point lead at the top of Group One. Soren Larsen fired the Danes ahead against Malta and added his second and Denmark's third a couple of minutes into the second half. Liverpool defender Daniel Agger converted a first-half penalty as Denmark maintained their unbeaten start to the World Cup qualifying campaign.


Aaron Ramsey
Wales U21 2-3 England U21, October 10th, England U21 v Wales U21, October 14th.
Aaron Ramsey set up two goals for Simon Church to keep Wales in contention for a place at the European Under-21 Championships next summer. David Wheater, Adam Johnson and Gabriel Agbonlahor gave England a 3-2 win in the first leg of their play-off but the Arsenal youngster caused Stuart Pearce's problems throughout. Ramsey and Wales will look to overturn the deficit in the second leg at Villa Park on Tuesday.


Wojciech Szczesny
Under-19s European Championships October 12th-26th.
The 18-year-old goalkeeper will join up with his Polish team-mates as they compete in the Under-19s European Championship in Sarajevo.

[haywood djablowme]

Robin van Persie missed Holland's comfortable win over Iceland after picking up an injury in training.. WTF

This is no good.. Hopefully only something minor.
Anybody heard anything more on it..

We need RVP

[Jimmy]

Robin van Persie missed Holland's comfortable win over Iceland after picking up an injury in training.. WTF

This is no good.. Hopefully only something minor.
Anybody heard anything more on it..

We need RVP

• R Van Persie - Hamstring Injury - 15th Oct 08
  V Diaby - Thigh Muscle Strain - 18th Oct 08
  E Da Silva - Broken Leg - 30th Nov 08
  T Rosicky - Hamstring Injury - no return date

[delfino_1936]

i want rosicky back

[pires7]

Rosicknote!

[delfino_1936]

SUPER, SUPER TOM
SUPER, SUPER TOM
SUPER, SUPER TOM
SUPER TOM ROSICKY

[Tony Adams]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/footba ... rahim.html

Gunners eye move for PSV starlet Ibrahim PSV Eindhoven star Ibrahim Afellay is high on the shopping list of Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

The £6million-rated playmaker has been watched by Gunners scouts on several occasions and he's expected to leave the Eredivisie at the end of the current season.
Wenger was linked with a move for the 22-year-old last year but the midfielder decided to sign a one-year contract extension with the Dutch club in December and is ready to revive the bid for Afellay.

i love tomas but if this is for real i thinks its time to let go

[Tony Adams]

Arsenal tracking 21 year Sochaux striker
Arsenal are tracking Mevlut Erding the 21 year old Turkish international who currently plys his trade at French Ligue 1 side Sochaux and are preparing to make a significant bid to lure the youngster to the Emirates.

French newspapers have regular identified young footballers that are apparently of interest to Arsenal but according to reports in the French media the Arsenal interest is real and Sochaux are expecting an offer to be forthcoming.

Erding could have chosen either Turkey or France at international level and opted for Turkey, he has made eight appearances for the national side and is developing as a player all the time, he is not prolific in front of the goal but nevertheless has still managed to find the net on a regular basis.

Erding would fit in nicely with Wenger's youth policy at Arsenal and if the offer is close to what Sochaux want then Erding would jump at the chance to join the Premiership giants.

http://footylatest.com/news/news.php?extend.2466

[Tony Adams]

Arsene Set To Bid For Erding
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is set to bolster his squad in January with a bid for highly rated Turkish starlet Mevlut Erding.
http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=908597
The young Sochaux striker has been hitting headlines in France for his impressive ability, and has been making his mark at international level, helping Turkey reach the semi-finals of the European Championships in the summer.

The 21-year-old has been at Les Lionceaux for the last five years, and his contract ends in June of next year, so rather than risk losing him for free next summer, Sochaux will be more open to offers in January, and Arsenal are reportedly ready to make a bid for the youngster.

The France-born Turkish international has scored 17 goals in 51 league appearances for Sochaux since his promotion to the first team from the youth team in 2003.

Erding is also becoming a bigger player in the Turkey international setup, and now has eight international caps to his name, scoring his only goal for his country in yesterdays 2-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Arsenal have seemingly been in hot pursuit of another striker to provide backup for their current roster, and came close to signing Brazilian sensation Diogo from Brazilian Serie A club Portuguesa during the summer. However, they ended up pulling out of the bidding war, allowing Diogo to move to Olympiacos of Greece.

[Tony Adams]

http://youngguns.wordpress.com/

Dentinho Ruled Out As Arsenal’s Striker Hunt Continues

Whilst fans and the media alike are baffled to the identity of Arsenal’s new South American striker, two important pieces of information have been released, which rule out the front runner, Dentinho.

Young Guns first revealed news of the Gunners interest in the Corinthians front-man in January 2007, and although the player himself was open to a move to North London, a £3 million offer was rebuffed. The 19-year-old has since gone from strength to strength, meaning the Brazilian outfit can expect a bumper fee for the diminutive forward.

The rumour contradicts the claims by Tribuna de Salamanca, who initially interviewed Richard Law, they claim that the signing will cost ‘Almost Nothing, Or Nothing At All’. Law confirmed in early September the intentions to seal the transfer of the mystery marksman, with speculation rife over who the player could be.

Several names have been branded around, but while there is nothing serious at the moment, one thing is certain, and that’s whoever is signed, the player will spend the next two campaigns on loan in Spain.

The quality of players brought in could be affected by The Unions current League status, yet after victory over Eibar on Sunday, UDS have travelled to the summit of the table, and are now firm contenders from promotion. This is something Law has welcomed.

“The next step in our agreement would become active once Salamanca go up to the first division. Not only because more places would open for players, but because a higher calibre of Arsenal players could compete in the first division and get great experience.”

Salamanca have two main centre forwards on their books currently. Giant striker Gorka Azkorra was drafted in over the summer, but has failed to score a competitive goal for his new side, despite being the first choice. The other option is another loanee, Nicolás Fedor known simply as ‘Miku’, the much travelled youngster is on loan from Valencia, but he has also struggled for form.

It leaves a title chasing team without a goalscorer, something badly needed if the target of promotion is to be achieved. The pressure would be on for the loan player who arrives in January, although he would be earning great experience and almost guaranteed a regular slot, should he manage to find the net.

[Tony Adams]

Gilles Sunu Shows Why He Is More Babel Than Henry


When Gilles Sunu arrived at Arsenal in the summer of 2006, both his former chairman and the British media had dubbed the French forward as ‘The New Thierry Henry’.

A first season dogged with injuries and fatigue left Gooners frustrated as well as cheated at the £2 million fee paid for the unproven starlet, but in his time of need, Arsenal stuck by him. At the back end of the season Gilles had played his part in a handful of Reserves games, and although he scored against Derby, many were still not convinced.

This campaign has seen a complete reversal of fortunes for Sunu, who made his first appearance of the season for the second-string at home to Stoke last week. Now back playing in his original position on the wing, Gilou is making up for lost time.

Over the summer much has changed with the 17-year-old, and not just in his hair cut!. He has found his confidence, and looks the part with the weight of being charged as the man to get the goals firmly off his back.

Sunu now seems taller, stronger, quicker and as versatile as ever. Featuring on the flanks has recharged his energy, with the youngster still possessing his athleticism and power, but now with enthusiasm in abundance, his direct style is paying dividends.

Aside from the handful of goals already bagged, attitudes towards the player have been a complete transformation from that of last season. Although Gilles is still not thought of as a massive prospect for the future, Man Of The Match performances at West Ham and Chelsea show he is making a big difference for Bould’s Under 18’s.

So much have the feelings changed, praise is steadily been applied, yet one thing remains the same, the comparisons. It’s still a big international name that’s been associated, infact it’s a player who himself has shrugged off the ‘New Henry’ tag, Ryan Babel.

The directness and sheer power are identical in both, with the Arsenal man only needing to polish his raw qualities to bridge the gap. Being left to quietly develop seems to suit the gentle giant, but fans can be reassured, you’ve not heared the last of Gilles Sunu.

[Tony Adams]

Walcott is O2/Arsenal.com Player of the Month
Theo Walcott's sparkling form for club (and no doubt country) has earned the teenager the 02/Arsenal.com Player of the Month award for September.

There were already signs that Theo had stepped up a gear this season but he exceeded all expectations at the start of the month, netting a sensational hat-trick as England beat Croatia 4-1 in Zagreb. England's youngest ever hat-trick scorer carried that form into the domestic game with an influential display against Blackburn, where he set up the opener for Robin van Persie and caused endless problems for the Rovers back four.

Theo operated on the right flank throughout the month and his soaring confidence made him a frightening prospect for opposition defences. Bolton and Porto also struggled to deal with the 19-year-old as he enjoyed the best month of his career to date.

Theo polled over a third of the fans' votes in our September poll. Emmanuel Adebayor finished second after scoring five goals in September, while Van Persie came third.

September Player of the Month Results Player %
Theo Walcott 35.4%
Emmanuel Adebayor 19.4%
Robin van Persie 14.6%
Others 30.6%

Catherine Brewer from Kent has won the chance to present Theo with his award before a home game at Emirates Stadium. Catherine will also win two tickets to that match.

"I voted for Walcott because I think he's been very consistent with his performances," said Catherine. "His great performances for the club have made him one of the important players in the team now and not just a great talent. He's really improved since last year and he deserves to get player of the month because he is at the heart of most goals Arsenal score."

Previous Player of the Month winners Player Month
Samir Nasri August 2008
Cesc Fabregas Player of the Season 2007/08
Theo Walcott April 2008
Cesc Fabregas March 2008
Eduardo February 2008
Emmanuel Adebayor January 2008
Eduardo December 2007
William Gallas November 2007
Cesc Fabregas October 2007
Cesc Fabregas September 2007
Cesc Fabregas August 2007
Cesc Fabregas Player of the Season 2006/07
Cesc Fabregas April 2007
Abou Diaby March 2007
Tomas Rosicky February 2007
Julio Baptista January 2007
Gilberto December 2006
Cesc Fabregas November 2006
Cesc Fabregas October 2006
Emmanuel Eboue September 2006
Cesc Fabregas August 2006
Thierry Henry Player of the Season 2005/06
Jens Lehmann April 2006
Cesc Fabregas March 2006
Jens Lehmann February 2006
Thierry Henry January 2006
Jose Antonio Reyes December 2005
Robin van Persie November 2005
Thierry Henry October 2005
Sol Campbell September 2005
Alexander Hleb August 2005

[Tony Adams]

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archiv ... ack-as-men

Banfield - Loan players will come back as men
Neil Banfield expects the current crop of Arsenal loanees to be transformed by the time they return to Emirates Stadium.

Seven young Gunners are spending at least part of this season at other clubs - Armand Traore, Kerrea Gilbert and Nacer Barazite remain on British soil while Philippe Senderos, Håvard Nordtveit, Pedro Botelho and Vincent van den Berg are overseas.

Traore has earned standing ovations at Fratton Park for his performances in a Portsmouth shirt while Barazite has been a key figure in Derby's recent resurgence.

The absence of these youngsters arguably weakens Arsenal at Carling Cup and Reserve League level. However, as Banfield points out, the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term impact.

"They are doing very well," he told Arsenal.com. "We've been watching Nacer, Traore and also Nordtveit out in Spain and they are all doing really well. Again it is great for the club.

"They get first-team experience playing at the sharp end. They're playing with senior pros and it is the bit that you can't get on the training ground and it is invaluable for them.

"It is a big part of their learning development to get out there and actually play. You see people like Jay Simpson who has come back a different player.

"You watch it over the years, it matures them, the players come back men and it is really the final part of their progression."

[delfino_1936]

Gallas, Sagna and Bendtner out for two games

By Richard Clarke

Arsenal have suffered “heavy losses” during the international break.

William Gallas (hamstring), Bacary Sagna (knee) and Nicklas Bendtner (ankle) will all miss Saturday’s Premier League game against Everton plus Tuesday’s trip to Fenerbache after picking up injuries with their countries.

When he spoke to Arsenal TV Online on Thursday lunchtime, Arsène Wenger was also unsure over the fitness of another three players who collected knocks on international duty. Cesc Fabregas (broken nose), Robin van Persie (muscular) and Johan Djourou (concussion) will undergo tests but the manager suggested they would be available.

On the upside, Abou Diaby is set to be named in the Arsenal squad at the weekend for the first time this season after recovering from a thigh problem.

However that was merely a silver lining to the news that has clouded the Club’s return to action this weekend.

“Unfortunately we have lost some players over the 10 days – William Gallas (hamstring), Bacary Sagna (knee) and Nicklas Bendtner (ankle),” said Wenger.

“These are heavy losses and we have to compensate them.

“Fortunately the three of them don’t look to be out for a long, long time but they will be out for the weekend game and I think the game on Tuesday.

“As well as them, Djourou got concussion during his game with Swizterland and will be assessed tomorrow to see if he is available. He does not look too bad and he could have a good chance to play.

“I am still waiting for Robin to come back [after international duty] so I don’t know about him. However he should be OK. He went with a muscle problem but he came on after 56 minutes last night and, from the reports I got, he should be alright. Both of them will be assessed.

“Also I am told Cesc has a broken nose. It should not stop him playing. He is here now [at the training ground] and is being assessed.

“At least Abou Diaby is back in the squad again,” the manager added. “Even though he has not played games he will be used, at the least in the squad, because we have lost those three players.”

Arsenal TV Online subscribers will be able to see the full video interview on Friday morning. In it, Wenger talks about: England’s fine week, the problems of France, Robert Pires’ call that Wenger should take over, Aaron Ramsey’s display for Wales Under-21, Everton’s stuttering form, the longevity of David Moyes, the ‘new start’ after the international break, the points Arsenal have missed this season and claims of ‘inexperience in the squad’.