I've No Respect for Spanish League and Schwarzer Says No Plus Other Stuff

Relative newbie that I am to the footballing world, I made the rookie mistake of admiring the play of Barcelona and Real Madrid while ignoring their tactics at bringing in new players. I'm sorry. Not bringing in new players, but barraging contracted players indirectly through the media until the move is all but expected. And as we all know, Barca can't take a hint. They day after Cesc's interview, Arsenal came out stating that Cesc was not for sale. The day after that, Barcelona stated that they aren't going to break the bank for Cesc. What bank? He's not for sale! They may play pretty football, but they're scoundrels who would pick your pocket if you weren't looking. Jose Mourhni having now been appointed Real Madrid's new manager, has joined in the skulduggery by announcing his interest in Lampard, Gerrard, and Ashley Cole. At least now we're not the only clubs having a tizzy over Spanish League coaches who seem to think they are above the rules.

Other news is that Fulham goalkeeper Schwarzer to whom we have been linked, has stated he is not leaving Fulham for Arsenal. I don't know if the link had any validity, but Schwartzer seems devoted to Fulham. I personally see the move as a promotion for him, but I can certainly admire his loyalty.

Speaking of Fulham, there is now a rumor that we are making a bid for Brede Hangeland the center back I personally backed in my May 8th posting. Okay, so I didn't back him as much as beg us to buy him. Last year when this rumor was posted, Brede came out and stated he was not interested. We haven't heard that yet. Hmmm...

Onto bad news..RVP is injured. Shocking, I know. Bizarre even. Who woulda thunk? He rolled his ankle in training and there is, as of now, no word on how bad it is. He was on quite a streak with his goal scoring, so hopefully this is not too bad a turn for him. Luckily, the Dutch medics are taking care of the situation. I know that fact is making us all feel better, 'eh?

For a change of pace, a player has stated that Arsenal has made a move for him. According to Wigan striker Hugo Rodellego, Arsenal has made a bid for him. Both times we have played Wigan this year, I wasn't overly impressed. Plus, us signing another striker after Chamakh seems doubtful to me.

Just as a side note, the USA beat Turkey today 2-1 with Landon Donovon and Clint Dempsey scoring. Here is the video of Clint's game winner. I might have to keep an eye on this guy.



Until tomorrow when I finally am posting the results of my Club Fitness Exam. Curious? Tune in then Gooners...

Cesc Speaks...Finally

I wish I could say it's good to be back. Don't get me wrong, I have missed the outlet that blogging gives, I just wish I had better news. Like Laporta was removed foricbly from offce by Spanish fans who realized his manipulations of class players and clubs (such as Cesc and Arsenal)make them all look like prickish, cheating jackasses. No such luck. What we do have, however, is Cesc finally responding to all the media allegations and rumors in an interview. The interview is below if you want to look. Personally, I think Cesc looks strained, and a little sad. In a nutshell, he says he is focusing on the World Cup as Wenger assured him he would handle things and to focus on his football.

object width="600" height="350">

Speaking of strained, and I know this is late news for many of you, but Wenger looked horrible in his pictures with Chamakh and in the interview about his signing. When Wenger is excited about a new player, it shows. Here he just looks old and serious as he discusses Maroune's best footballing attributes. Plus, that color shirt he's wearing totally washes him out. Ugh!

Back to Cesc, yesterday his dear old dad was also quoted in the papers as saying:

"Arsenal have to respect the decision and the will of the player. Cesc is now focused on the Spanish team but he wants to close the signing soon. I get the feeling that the English club do not want to sell but in the end will finally give in and let Cesc go. We just want this to end soon."

Arsenal have to respect the will of the player? Really? Don't get me wrong, Senor Fabregas is missing his son and wants him home and I can understand that. Doesn't he know his son won't be loved as fiercely anywhere else? Not even in Spain? I do not hesitate to say this. And, Cesc has a stinking long contract! Doesn't that mean anything? We are supposedly asking 80 million pounds (wish I had a proper pounds sign on this laptop) which is mostly due (if true) to the length that's left on that contract. Barca is starting at 30 million? Where's Barca's respect? They haven't respected the club since Cesc slipped away to England. How many summers have they tortured us fans, Cesc, and the club with rumors of Cesc coming back and with the media innuendos that Barca is his true home? His true family - the "it's in his DNA" garbage. They make me sick. Arsenal legend and former teammate Bobby Pires
doesn't think Cesc will leave and Hleb advises him not to transfer. Quite frankly, I can't see this ending well for us. If we keep Cesc for one more season, I worry about the fans' reactions. What happens when Cesc scores and kisses his badge? A riot I reckon. It's not right that a underhanded club like Barcelona can play so dirty and win. I just don't know. It's such a mess.

On other fronts, for those of us over here in the States that don't have access to prize dish or cable packages, I have included the Nike World Cup Ad for you all to see. I think it's pretty fun. Also, if you get a chance, check out the May 24th issue of "Sports Illustrated" as it covers "The Beautiful Game". There are articles on Drogba, Brazil, and the US's - and Fulham's - Clint Dempsey. Apparently Dempsey grew up playing more street ball than organized ball which has allowed him to be a more intuitive player. Maybe that's what's missing from the MLS - that creative instinct. It does look a bit cardboardish at times.



Anyway, that's all for now. I'm on vacation the rest of the week and look forward to catching up on my blogging. You all take care and keep your fingers crossed.

Tech issues

Hello and welcome to the wettest, dreariest May in Northern Indiana I can remember for a long time. Just wanted to thank those of you who let me know the videos in my posts were not functioning and that I'll be fixing those as quick as I can. Fixing these means my next post is delayed...which means I don't have to obsess about the Cesc situation/non-situation for today. I'll have a post up tomorrow. Until then...

Villa Move a Done Deal - So Are the Rumors True? and An American Shows Some Class

So it's official. David Villa has left Valencia for Barcelona (for a measly 40 million pounds) just as the rumors said he would. These rumors struck me as being partially valid as Barca needs a striker. Henry is probably leaving (maybe for the MLS?) and Ibrahimovic's time in Spain has been wrought with inconsistency and apparently neither party - club nor player- are especially happy. That's two strikers down. Which begs the question - are the rumors of Cesc leaving true? Because, where would he play? Barcelona are not getting rid of Xavi or Iniesta their dynamic midfield duo. YaYa may be leaving (to Emirates if anything in the papers are to be believed) but he's a defensive midfielder. So that means Cesc is going to get much less playing time there. Does he want Xavi tutelage? He's gotten Arsenal tutelage for the last seven years, and look what that's done for him. It's put him in the world class category. I just don't see it. If he's frustrated, I get it. He misses his family. I get that too. Cesc has always said that he loves Arsenal and the fans. Yes, he wants to return to his home one day, but the timing seems off to me due to the reasons I've listed above. Anyway...I've now paid enough attention to the rumor mill for today. We better get some answers soon or my brain is going to burst. And that'll be a big mess.

How about some inspiration? American footballer Oguchi Onyewu hasn't played for his club AC Milan since last October as he ruptured a tendon. He has asked to extend his football contract for free. In other words, he wants to play without getting paid. In this football world where players are treated like rock stars (in Europe anyway), and get paid oodles of money, it's refreshing to to find someone who says "Don't show me the money". He was hurt and feels he didn't earn his salary. Love it. Go Gooch.

And lastly, here is a video clip from Paraguay where Brazilian footballer Golazo de Inca scored a 45 foot free kick for his Sol De America team. I'm not kidding. Wenger must be right about those Brazilian ankles. Take a look.


It's a short blog today. I don't want to torture myself, or you, with endless ramblings and speculations. Here's hoping we hear something - either way- soon. Like in two minutes. Take care.

Finally - My Finale is Finished!

Okay - well after much mulling over possible topics and not wanting to be a copycat, I have decided to highlight the 2009-2010 season via video. Some other bloggers have used video, but hopefully I have put a different spin on it for you all. Let me know what you think by commenting or checking one of those little boxes at the bottom.

First up: Most Inspiring Moment How can we forget our Captain's cameo in the Aston Villa game? Coming off the bench in the 56th minute half-healed and returning to it re-injured after scoring two goals. Here was his heart for Arsenal truly showing. We're all praying that heart, plus the rest of him, is back next season.


I apologize for only being able to show you his second goal. Technical difficulties.

Then we have what I refer to as the Turning Point of the Season. Robin Van Persie's injury. Before that injury we were averaging 3.4 goals per game. After he was out, we averaged a paltry 1.9. So here's the stupid Italian player in the stupid, meaningless friendly, injuring our number one striker:



Arsenal fans will probably all agree that the season's Most Heartbreaking Moment was when Aaron Ramsey had his leg broken by that crying idiot Shawcross. To see young Aaron break into the starting 11, put pressure on Diaby and Denilson for their starting spots was fun to watch. Watching him get maimed made me cry. Here's the video. I understand if you don't want to see this again. Here's hoping he's back soon...



All right, things have gotten a little dark here. So time to lighten them up. I picked My Favorite FanZone Moment. For those of you Stateside who don't know FanZone, it's a program that allows fans of the two teams playing each other to give the play-by-play of the match. I didn't know about the program until I tripped across it while perusing YouTube. After watching several clips, here is the episode from the 6-2 beating we gave Blackburn. I think it's hysterical.



Of course we have to include some of the biggest mistakes we made too. Just when we were making progress toward the top two, when we couldn't afford to give up three points, along came the Birmingham City match and Almunia's Own Goal

:

I feel bad that Almunia has been singled out. Let's not forget Fumbling's Contributions to our opponents. I think the Wigan game is where our title challenge went swooshing down the drain.



I know, I know. There was much weeping and gnashing of teeth while watching that, wasn't there. After those God-Awful highlights I thought I'd follow it with my pick of the Most Robust Arsenal Performance . No, it's not a tackle. It's a fight - a tussle. The only one in the whole season. It was, of course, against those dirty, talentless,recently relegated, cheating Tigers of Hull. After not getting called for their cheap and dangerous tackles and constant shirt pulling, Sami finally had enough and gave a sly,albeit weak tap-like, kick to Garcia who grabbed his foot as if it had been rolled over by a Mac Truck. What a baby. I also enjoyed seeing Silvestre in the fray as he is the first to get in the face of the Hull players. In my opinion, we needed more of that this season especially against teams who like to "get up" us. Enjoy.

P.S. - the background music contains some vulgar language you may want to mute. Sorry about that as this is the best clip I could find.



And in an attempt to save the best for last we have the Signing of the Season.. Of course there was only one signing this year but he was a beautiful one at that. Of course he is also my favorite player, so here is a homage to Thomas Vermaelan's rookie year in the EPL. May he stay a long time.



Whew! That's all for now. I know this post had its highs and lows, just like the season. At the end of next year, I hope to have all positive clips. Especially one of us holding up the EPL title trophy. Thanks for watching.

Help! It's the First Weekend Without Proper Football...Oops - Fire Tie Against Kansas City...and Still No Denial From Fabregas

Here we go. Into the season of no EPL. Sure I have the MLS, but if you have been reading this blog, you know that comparing the two, for me, is like comparing apples and oranges. Or grapefruits to grapes. Or watermelons to those tiny kumquat thingies. Anyway - you get the idea.

The Fire came away with a draw against Kansas City with Brian McBride and Julio Martinez scoring for the Windy City. No, I did not get to watch as it was on Fox Soccer Channel which I do not get. I did some reading though and found that we were winning 2-0 in the and allowed them back in the game in the 50th minute. Then we held them 2-1 until the 88th minute when KC equalized. Sound familiar to anyone?

Onto news about Cesc...there is none. In other words, Cesc has still not made a statement to deny the quotes. I was hoping I was wrong about my gut reaction. Part of those quotes look piecemealed together as if some old ones were randomly picked out from past interviews and thrown together into the rumor blender and set to puree. Yes, I'm hungry. Too much tak about fruit. There won't be any official news tomorrow either as it's Sunday and the Arsenal site rarely posts anything new on that day.

More transfer rumors. Apparently we are (once again - as with almost every year) linked with a move for Everton's Phil Jagielka.. If this rumor has any validity I say don't get your hopes up. We know that Moyes does not like to let go of his players. Look at that mess at the beginning of the season with Lescott and Manchester City. Jagielka has just returned (in February) after being out for almost a year with a knee injury so there's a bit of rustiness he would have to work off. One of his good qualities is that he is versatile and can play either full back or the defensive midfielder role (African Nations Cup backup?). But, he's only 5"11' and I was hoping for a bigger, brawnier center back to partner Vermie. Of course, Untied are supposedly interested in Phil too which means we will be up against deep (in debt ) purses. I'm not holding my breath.

It's a pretty short blog today. I'm still trying to find a fresh approach to wrapping up the season but fear I've waited too long and whatever I do will end up being some form of replication of some other blogger. So until the creative Muses pay me a pretty visit, live and love like a Gooner. Time to fire up that blender...

Oh, Say It Ain't So Cesc! / Gallas is a Goner Not a Gooner/Everyone Wants Sol to Stay

Okay - screw the stats. News of the day is Cesc being quoted about leaving for Barcelona. What else is new, right? Barcelona and the Spanish press in general are constantly making trouble in regards to our Captain leaving Arsenal and returning to his Catalan roots. But Cesc has also been just as consistent in denying the rumors. As of the posting of this blog, there has been no denial. Here is what he allegedly said:

"I want to make a decision about my future before the World Cup," said Fabregas, who expects to recover from a cracked fibula in time to be fit for the tournament. "It's impossible to perform at a tournament such as the World Cup if you're not fully focused on the sporting aspects of the game. It does not benefit anyone. If I ever leave Arsenal it will be to play for Barcelona. I would like to go, whether they want me or not is another matter. I am 23 years old and I have a long career in front of me. I've never hidden the fact that playing for Barcelona is a dream that I would like to fulfil. I'm very happy at Arsenal. I'm in no hurry to leave the club. Barcelona are still playing for the Liga title and I'm still an Arsenal player. It would be a lack of respect to discuss a transfer now."

Now, I cannot vouch for the order of which these statements were made or in what interview they are pulled from. But for me, the are disturbing. Check out the Sun for more details. We, again, have not won any trophies, and at the beginning of the season, Cesc was all about the trophies:

“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."

As I have said, the Spanish press love starting something from nothing, but where are the denials? Where are the offical statements of Cesc setting the record straight? Personally, I think Cesc is upset about how the season ended and is using his status of the team MVP as leverage to ensure Wenger invests in players this summer. He should in no way be questioning his future as he just signed a long term contract and has been given "incentive" wages to boot. I hope two things: 1) That the quotes are made up garbage and will be traced back to an unreliable source and 2) If Cesc is using the media to indirectly communicate to Wenger, that the Boss listens. I'm sure I am overreacting. The whole subject makes me want to retch.

Gallas has not signed a contract yet and I'm not too upset about it. Apparently, Gallas not only wants a two-year contract (Wenger likes to give only one -year contracts for those players over 30), but also a pay raise. Adios Gallas. You had a good season this year but once only played 26 games because of your injuries which is only three more than the previous season. Billy, you're getting older and more injury prone. Plus, you're also a bit terperatmental. If you only wanted a one year extension with no raise, I could support that. But instead, I'm going with Mr. Sol who would be happy to stay with Arsenal with a contract that is dependent on appearances alone. What a key player he has been both on the pitch and in the locker room. Just read what Van Persie has to say about his influence here.

Lastly, check out the article from Ivan Gazidis about one of the ways the club is going to address injuries next season. The technology had me scratching my head a bit until Le Grove put things in perspective for me. The only drawback of course is that the new system will have to accumulate a couple of seasons worth of data on players before it is fully effective at spotting player fatigue. Still, it is something.

I guess that's all for now. Hopefully, I'll be back tomorrow with news that the Cesc quotes were creative fodder from the Spanish media who seemingly don't have enough to do other than doodle outrageous rumors on their cretinous notepads. Have a great weekend...

The Fire Fall to Toronto 4-1 But I Have to Admit, They're Looking Better! Plus, Arsenal News...

Players were actually running around on the pitch! I could not believe my eyes. Okay, so I only saw the last half of the match and in that span the other team scored three times, but hey...players were running! The game was held at a no longer used exhibition baseball field in Ontario (how far is that from Toronto?). The players were sitting in coarse dugouts and the stands were aluminum benches. Not even close to the EPL or even the new stadium of the New York Red Bulls. It was cold and windy, but both teams were invested. Did I mention they were running?

Collins John did not start the game but was subbed in at the 35th minute for Peter Lowry. I'm not sure that such an early substitution was because of injury or poor performance. I can't see it being for strategy, but of course I'm used to Le Boss refusing to sub before the 70th minute, so who knows? Our one goal was made by midfielder Logan Pause who let it fly from 35 yards out or so. He ended up winning the MLS Goal of the Week. I tuned into the match after his goal but found the YouTube version. Take a peek. What I saw of John-John I liked. He made nice runs, good passes and crosses to teammates and seemed overall involved in the play. He also was not too shy to shoot. I thought personally he could have gotten back faster on defense - as all the players could especially the central defenders. I know the Arsenal defense is under attack for being soft and conceding to many goals, but Wilman Conde got schooled twice on counter attacks by Toronto (ex-Chicago player) forward Chad Barrett. I've seen Conde play two other matches and he has handled himself reasonably well - winning headers and tackling hard - but I think Barrett's pace did him in. It may be too early to draw conclusions, but I feel happy that I care enough to have one! The Fire's next game is against the Kansas City Wizards in Chicago. It's being shown at 8:30 EST on Fox Soccer Channel or Fox Sports en Espanol.


Onto a bit of Arsenal news. According to the Sun, Wenger has let slip that Theo has made the cut past the provisional English squad and onto the official squad for the World Cup. The official Arsenal site only lists the players who made their nation's 30 man provisional squads and does not mention final selections. Also, I can't find it in any of the other tabloids. Capello is not suppose to announce his final selection until June 1st so I highly doubt The Sun's validity. But, thought I would mention it.

Also, we are supposedly interested in: Everton's Arteta and Barcelona's Yaya. The YaYa rumor was actually on Arsenal.com which shocked me! I guess the official site is delving into transfer rumors. On the one hand, it makes my news gathering easier, but on the other, I depend on that site for "official" news. This is just one more way to get me confused. As if I need another.

Lastly. Arsenal legend Tony Adams has taken on the managing position at...Gabala FC? Gabala are a team in the Azerbaijan Premier League located in in Southwestern Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Russia, with a small European portion north of the Caucasus range. There are six teams in this tier and Tony's is sitting at the dead bottom. He says he wants a challenge. Looks like he's found one.

Finally (I know, I know, I already said "lastly"), kudos to Fulham for fighting to the end. Unforutately they lost 2-1 to Atletico in the 116th minute. It sounds hard fought and I'm sure hearts are breaking all over.

See you tomorrow where I will be writing about those statistics from the 2009-2010 campaign that I've been promising. Until then my fellow Gooners...

We Seal Third Place(4-0) but Why the Empty Seats?

Sorry about the lateness of the posting. I am recovering today from a bout of nastiness of which I'm sure you don't really want to know -especially if you are eating lunch.

Anyway, our boys ended the season with stamping on a weakened Fulham side. Glad to see the score no matter how skeletal the opponent's team was. Fumbling had a clean sheet although all reports (I didn't watch , remember?) were that he looked nervous in goal. Joe, Joe, where for art thou Joe? So, with obtaining our third place, making it to Champions League again this time without having to go through the qualifying stages, being financially stable and not in horrible debt (like Manure and Liverpool), not being owned by alledged criminals, why oh why were there so many empty seats at the Emirates? Especially for the Lap of Appreciation which is tradition at the end of the season? Watch the video below of the Lap and notice the empty seats.

Do you know what I would give to just be able to attend ONE game over there? Am I the only fan -American or otherwise- who feels this way? We have a beautiful stadium to boot...and empty seats. So I say to those who have fallen away because we're ended up in third place (last year was fourth, remember?)...Shame.On. You. I know what you're thinking. Another year without trophies. Hey, I want trophies. And I have vented on this newly born site many times my frustrations about the poor performances of some of the players, but look what we have. And with Wenger investing slowly and wisely each year in new players, just think about where we can be. Do I want a new keeper? Yes. Do I want a solid center defense? Yes. Do I want the club to take a good long look at why our players are the most injury prone boys in the whole league? Yes. Am I going to quit being a Gooner? Quit rooting on our squad? Would I throw away a chance to applaud the youngest team in the EPL at their last home stand of the season after they had shown moments of greatness, entertainment, and persistence through crazy injuries to themselves and their teammates? NO. I certainly am not a member of the AKB (Arsene Knows Best)club but neither am I reactionary like a child who has to wait for her dessert. Come on - yes, trophies are really what we all want but I don't want us to go bankrupt getting there. There is a responsible way to obtain silverware, it just requires patience and seeing the improvements along the way. When we do win the League - and I believe we will next year - it will be all the sweeter because of the way we won. I truly believe that. Call me delusional. Call me soft. Call me overly optimistic. Just keep calling me a Gooner!

Now, I'm off. Tune in tomorrow for news on the Fire (they looked better) and my more rational and less ranting analysis of the season. Adieu to our boys in Red until August. You'll be missed...

Fulham Preview-More Rumors, and Can We Please Sign Brede Hangeland? Pretty Please?

Wow, this season has flown by and the last match of the season is upon us. I am not looking forward to the summer lull. Since becoming officially addicted to this game, searching for news during the time off is excruciating. The lack of news is already evident. Arsenal is barely present as I scrutinize the news and gossip on the net. Oh well, let's get on with the preview.

Our last match is against Fulham who are ending their season, unlike us, on a high note by making it to the final of the Europa Cup. The first time in the history of the club. Their manager Rod Hodgeson was up for Manager of the Season but was usurped by Redknapp as Spurs have qualified for the Champions League for the first time. I guess 'Arry won over Roy because he took the Spudheads up from near relegation last year to fourth this year. And in fourth they must stay. Right? Well, that will take an intensity from the boys that has been lacking since we got beat out of Champions League. Arshavin is still back in the squad and will likely start as will RVP. Clichy is a maybe for the game and the others who missed out on Blackburn will not be back in. Song, Bendy, and Rosicky are all still out. I'm sure this match will also see us having a last look at some players in an Arsenal jersey. Silvestre and maybe Sol (although that will break my heart). Who is starting between the sticks? Almunia is available but will he start or will Wenger give Fumbling, Flappy, Flacid Fabianski another chance?
As I stated last blog, Fulham may start a weaker 11 because of wanting to save starters for the Cup final on Wednesay. But, if Fulham are on a roll, having the same players continue to play as a unit for consistency's sake could mean Roy may put our his usual starters. Either way, our boys need to play like their lives -not just the third place standing- depend on a win. At least we're at home and Fulham's away record is not nearly as successful as their home.

Okay, onto rumors. This is has been the favorite part of my blog the past few days is looking up these (imaginary I'm sure) possible signings. Up next is goalie Diego Lopez from Villareal

Full Name Diego Lopez
Birth Date November 3, 1981
Birth Place Spain
Height 6' 5" (1.96m)
Weight 192 lbs (87 kg)
Age 28
Position Goalkeeper
Squad No 13
Diego has 36 matches 105 saves and 9 clean sheets. His ranking is...5. Another 5. Sigh. On the upside I have to admit I like this photo of him because he has his knee up as he catches the ball. Reminds me of Jens. Nothing will keep an opposing team out of a goalie's way as worrying about a knee to the kidneys, or the groin, or the...ahem. You get the drift. On the downside, his name is pretty uninspiring.


Next up is Edin Dzeko of VFL Wolfsburg a team in the German Bundesliga
Full Name Edin Dzeko
Birth Date March 17, 1986
Height 5' 11" (1.82m)
Weight 176 lbs (80 kg)
Age 24
Position Forward
Squad No 9
Ranking: Yep, you guessed it...5
Edin has 21 goals in 33 games which is pretty sweet but I doubt very much that Wenger will buy him as Chamakh seems like a done deal. And I really don't think he's going to buy two strikers. He needs defense which leads me to address part of the title in today's post.

Brede Hangeland of Fulham. According to Wenger,he has never tried to sign Brede. Which I think is a shame. Check out his dimensions.

Full Name Brede Hangeland
Birth Date June 20, 1981
Birth Place Norway
Height 6' 4" (1.94m)
Weight 179 lbs (81 kg)
Age 28
Position Defender
Squad No 5
He also has a ranking of 6.4! I could totally see this Norwegian playing next to my favorite Belgian, who by the way, has a ranking of 6.8. But I digress. Brede is still under contract with Fulham, so his price may be too costly for our thrifty manager. First things first though. Wenger has stated he will not pursue buys until the end of the season which is Monday.

Alright. I guess that's all for now. Hopefully, I will be back with a glowing post match report. So, for the last time this season, I will say - Go You GOOOOONERS!!!

Spuds Are Nipping at Our Heels...More Transfer Rumors...and the Fire's Collins John

Okay, now we know who can threaten our third place position on Sunday...the Spurs as they are now only two points behind us after beating Manless City 1-0. Actually, the only ones who can take that third place from us is ..ourselves. And I don't doubt our ability to do just that. Course, Spuds would have to win their game too this weekend against the mighty relegation giants - Burnley. Yeah. That's a tough game. The official site has been fairly quiet about the outcome of the Blackburn game, just as it was after the Wigan loss. The only player who has spoken about the season this week has been Nasri who pretty much whined that Arsenal deserves more credit for their season considering all the injuries. Can you tell I'm a bit beleaguered? I know we've had more injuries than most, but the lack of desire shown by the players in these last few games doesn't leave me with much sympathy. Onto more transfer rumors. There are quite a few popping up every day in the British tabloids which means there is probably no substance to them, but...I'd thought I'd draw attention to a few of them for you. Gianluigi Buffon aka "Gigi" is a goalie with Juventus. Full Name Gianluigi Buffon Birth Date January 28, 1978 Birth Place Carrara, Italy Height 6' 3'' (1.91m) Weight 183 lbs (83 kg) Age 32 Position Goalkeeper Squad No 1 His ranking is only a 5.0 even though he is regarded higher by my colleagues and many sports announcers. Gigi is also older than many of the other goalies that we were linked with, but not too old that an investment would be wasted on him. We'll see. I'm giving you this information half-heartedly to say the least because I don't trust what Wenger is saying as he seems to contradict himself when it comes to buying this summer. Plus, Gigi just isn't as cute as Mr. Hart. Jeane, what do you think? There's also a rumor that Wenger might be going after center back Pape Malickou Diakhate of Dynamo Kiev. Full Name Pape Diakhate Birth Date June 21, 1984 Height 6' 1" (1.85m) Weight 174 lbs (79 kg) Age 25 Position Defender Ranking 5.0 I can't find out more about him other than he is from Senegal and has played in both the French and Russian leagues ( on loan) this 2009/2010 season. I'm not sure I want us to buy him considering his height and weight. He is suppose to be pretty quick and strong. I guess I was hoping for someone bigger to pair with my Vermie. Some "hulk" of a man who would scare away all members of opposing squads. Hmmm...who could we call on? How about this guy? So what if he's a little green around the gills. Sorry, I just could not help myself. By the way, has anyone noticed a pattern with these rumored transfers? No? Well, I'll give you one more...this transfer target was a rumor last summer and confirmed at that time as a target for Wenger by Wenger. And that player is striker Maroune Chamakh currently playing in the French league for Bordeaux. Name Marouane Chamakh Birth Date January 10, 1984 Height 6' 1" (1.85m) Weight 154 lbs (70 kg) Age 26 Position Forward Squad No 29 Ranking 5 Have you noticed all the 5's? I'm wondering if Marouane a bit too wiry for the Premier League. He's had 10 goals in 36 games. That's an OK average I guess. Comes to scoring every 3.6 games (who said I can't do math?). To put things in perspective, our own Bendy has scored 6 goals in 23 games which puts him at 3.83 and Robin is at 8goals in 15 games which is a much better goal every 1.88 games. Anyway, I also found some videos of Chamakh's goals/assists on youtube and have inserted them below. Take a look and tell me what you think. Okay - to answer my own question, the thing that binds all these players together is...they have great names!!! Come on now - think of all the possibilities next season as you are sitting/standing, screaming at your television. "Oooh yea Papeeee (ala Will Smith's Miami song). "Chamack you numchuck" or "That's our Chak-attack". What about Gigi? Do I even have to give examples? Plus his last name? "Go Buffy -the -Spuds-Slayer". I have to confess that just the thought of calling a 6'3" Italian man "Buffy" is giving me the giggles. Anyway, you get my drift about the possibilities. And in keeping with the name-game theme, I have finally kept my word about highlighting a Chicago Fire member - Collins John. Come on! It's the reverse name of an alcoholic drink! Oh, wait..that's a Tom Collins. Oh well, I needed some sort of segue way. What makes Collins interesting to me is that he (drum roll please) used to play in the EPL. He was an up and comer at Fulham. He had an outstanding year his rookie season at 18 years of age and then fell apart. He's bounced all over the place and at the ripe age of 24 is trying to put his tattered football career back together in the MLS. He has one goal and one assist in five games so far. I think he'll be interesting to watch which is something that will help deaden the pain of watching the games. Sigh. Click here for more background on Mr. John-John. See, it's starting already. To update you all on the Fire's season, we are currently sitting in third place (it's early) with triple deuces - 2 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses. Next game is 3:00 PM CST against Toronto. The game is being shown on MY50 which is WPWR Chicago. I guess that's it for now. Just so you know, I'm not taking any of these transfer rumors seriously until the official Arsenal site confirms. The only one I have any faith in right now is Chak-a-khan. See how great the name is? I'll be back with a preview of our last game of the season. Have a good one...

Gunners Too Tame for "Tactics" Lose 2-1

That's right..the gum-chewing, cheating, classless, and unfortunately correct Sam Allardyce's Rovers repeated their energetic performances against the top tier teams by beating us 2-1.

What a way to wind down a promising season. We started off surprising our detractors and now have confirmed all their previous criticisms. Arsenal can't defend against set plays. Arsenal are "soft underneath". Arsenal play pretty football but lack substance. What we lack is someone to kick these kids in the butt and get their heads in it for the rest of the season (one game albeit). What about the 3000 plus fans who traveled to Black burn? I did not see the game, but had to settle for reading up on the action and watching highlights. From what I read, the match was much the same tale as the rest our losses. We scored in the first half (welcome back Robin) and then...TOOK THE FOOT OFF THE GAS. Fan blogs are spewing with fury at the lack of fight in the team yesterday. If this loss had come in between some wins, we could write it off as being just an off day. But we have not won a game in eight consecutive matches. If we're too tired and hurt, then Wenger needs to increase our depth. If there is a work ethic problem, then he needs to give some players a farewell handshake.

And you know what? I don't entirely blame Fabianski. He had many fine saves. I can actually see how Wenger still holds out hope for him. His reflexes are tremendous. Watch his cat-like leap at getting Hoilett's goal to go over the net. His problem seems to lie in set pieces or anytime he is crowded around the net. There is no doubt after watching the highlights that he was crowded and blocked from the ball on the second goal. He was actually pushed into his own net by Blackburn players (who were able to push Sol, too). That's a foul. No doubt. You cannot block the keeper's access to the ball. BUT...the way the reffing is going in the EPL, you have to deal with it by giving it right back to them. We are too tame. Yes, this coming from an American. I have read how many Brits think American fans are too civilized about the game. I admit, I hold sportsmanship in high esteem. But at the same time, I also recognize the need to stand up for oneself when the referee is not doing his job.

When I first started following The Arsenal, my favorite player was goalie Jens Lehmann. Tall, great legs, wide shoulders, immaculate cheekbones - and as crazy as they come. He did not put up with being pushed around his own net. People lost teeth and ended up with cleat marks in their ankles (or hands if they were knocked to the ground). Just look at this photo. It screams "Touch my ball, and you are dead meat". Now, sometimes teams would intentionally mess with Jens in order to distract him, but all in all, he was tough. Big Z used to call him "Zat crazee German". Our next goalie - Fumbling or whomever- need to be a little crazy or tough, and willing to push back a bit. If another team decided to get physical with us - they should be wary of the repercussions. No one worries about us. And that says more than any of Wenger's explanations, exhortations, or complaining.

Our next match is our season ender next Sunday against Fulham. It is unfortunately on Mother's Day, so I will not be able to watch this one live either, as I am being a good daughter and taking my mom out for brunch and shopping. Fulham are in good form, and their manager is a shoe-in for Manager of the Year. They have a European Cup final after us, so they may put on a reserve team to rest their regulars. Can I admit that a first team Fulham scares the heck out of me? We still haven't mathematically secured third place yet...Man City and Spurs are playing each other tomorrow (Wednesday). If Spurs win, they will only be two points behind us with another match to go. If Man City win, they will be three points behind. Guess I'm hoping for a draw with Man City winning as a back up. I'm sick with the abrupt change in my gut going from adrenaline a few weeks ago to current dread. Here's to someone in the locker room taking a two by four to the boys' backsides. See you tomorrow...

P.S. Here are the highlights. Note Lukasz' saves, the lack of marking and clearing during the first goal, and the foul on the second.

Blackburn Preview/The Walrus Speaks/and..Don't Get Your Hopes Up About a Goalie

Okay..playing the Rovers today at a weird time (noon EST) right smack dab in the middle of my work day ...and Jeane's which makes watching it difficult as she has the cable package. Anyway...playing against Blackburn, it's crucial we get at least a draw so a point puts us safely in third as both Man City and Spuds won this weekend. Ahead of the game, the talking Walrus had this to say about his "tactics" when playing against Wenger:

"As an opposing manager, Arsene Wenger came out and criticised what we did. You just smile and say: 'I've managed to outwit you again. My tactics have been better on the day than yours have." Click here for the rest of the article

Tactics? You mean blindly going into tackles? That's a tactic? Intentionally fouling at yellow and red card level to interrupt passes? Tactics? Sounds like brawn versus brains...and talent...and integrity...and class. But what can you expect from a talking zoo animal? Still, the game will not be easy as Blackburn is in 11th placed and has done well against the top teams while playing at home. Let's hope we score and finish them off right away!!!. Any casualness on our part will result in a (cross fingers and dash salt over left shoulder at this point) a possible Wiganish loss. Bleck!

Okay onto other matters - mostly my wasted time. I spent three days researching my goalie article (hope my five readers liked it) and now Wenger is quoted as saying the goalie position is not necessarily on his shopping list. He also backs Fabianski in this article as well. What? After all my research, errm, I mean after all the errors made by our two goalies this season? I am hoping Le Boss is just being diplomatic as there are two important games left in the season and Fumbling is probably going to be in between the sticks for both. Saying he's looking at goalies could crush the already deflated Pole, so I'm hoping Wenger is just being psychologically cautious in his statements. I am still hoping for Mr. Hart - which is why I put his pic in the post. Wonder if he has dimples?

Okay then, I am off to follow the live commentary on the web for the game. I'll post tomorrow with results, news, and update on the MLS. I know, I know, I keep forgetting that. I did read a nice background article on one of the Fire players and thought I'd use that as a jumping off point tomorrow. Stay tuned and Go You GOOONNERS!!!