**** OFFICIAL Premiership 2007-08 season Thread!*****

[Oski]

[ QUOTE ]
lol @ allardyce saying any team plays long ball football

[/ QUOTE ]

You mean the BIG FOOT play?

Anyhow, what's the news with the Gunners' GP situation? I see that Jens is on the bench and presumably healthy. Almunia hasn't really been spectacular, but he has been servicable. I wonder if Wenger has lost faith in Jens (especially since he seemed disinterested in letting in two cheapies) and whether Jens was ever injured. I wouldn't be surprised if Jens had a little drug problem or something.

Also, did you ever notice that Almunia looks like that big kid in AYSO soccer that just becomes "goalie" by default. It doesn't help him that he has that 16 - 18 year-old mustach starter kit and the bleached hair. The guy kind of freaks me out.

I think Arsenal is better off without Henry (and I think he is regretting his transfer out). At time last year, it seems the team (Fabregas) was forcing the action through Henry. Of course, given Henry's role and skill, that seems natural, but I think it prevented Cece from playing within the flow of the game. Also, I am sure Wenger grew frustrated with Henry's fitness and it seemed that every other game, Henry was a scratch with no suitable replacement.

This year, even though no particular striker has proven to be Henry's equal, the options presented have multiplied and have led to a much better offense. Now the opportunities come from all over the place, with more players involved. Lesson: Wenger knows what the hell he is doing. If he wanted Henry there, Henry would be there.

[ThaSaltCracka]

I think Jens is out in January. Wouldn't surprise to see Arsene bring in a reliable, somewhat older keeper. That Polish kid is the keeper of the future, but Arsene may want to give Almunia some competition. Can't see any reason to drop Manny while he is still performing well enough. I would imagine its his job for the rest of the year, unless he does something to lose it.

I also think Arsenal are better w/o the past it Henry. While the fee is outrageous compared to POS's like Bent, its amusing Arsene got that much.

Cesc has also said that the team felt intimidated by Henry. They all felt they had to give him the ball, and they all sat back and let him do his thing. I see what he's saying, and I don't blame Henry really for this. It was just how it was.

I think we may see a move or two in January. Now that Togo didn't qualify for the ACN, Ade is back, but we will still lose Eboue and Toure. Djourou is back, but he's not a suitable backup for Senderos and Gallas, unless Arsene continues to play Gilberto back there. BTW, I think Bert is leaving in the summer, not January. I know there are some young players (of course) Arsene is looking at. Very curious to see if there is any activity.

[ClunkerDuds]

Pretty much in agreement with everything you just said TSC. Jens, deservedly so, got benched and stays benched for his best 3rd grade schoolgirl impression and is out in January. I like Almunia alot but I don't think he's the long term answer and Fabianski won't be ready for at least another year or two (or 5). I'm not sure who is all out there for the poaching so I couldn't even wager a guess.

I really don't want to see Gilberto go. He's an excellent leader and sets a perfect example for all the young guns on how to be a pro. I'm hoping he stays around for another campaign or two, but I can't blame him if he wants to leave so he can get more PT. He has certainly earned that right.

[eggegg]

You couldn't make this [censored] up. Disney taking over Derby, so funny. Hope it happens. Mickey Mouse outfit [img]/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

In other news COME ON ISRAEL pls pls pls pls do it for us.

[fatshaft]

[ QUOTE ]
I think Jens is out in January. Wouldn't surprise to see Arsene bring in a reliable, somewhat older keeper. That Polish kid is the keeper of the future, but Arsene may want to give Almunia some competition. Can't see any reason to drop Manny while he is still performing well enough. I would imagine its his job for the rest of the year, unless he does something to lose it.



[/ QUOTE ]Arsenal will sign Jussi in the window.

[Blue Celery]

What about bringing in Robert Green from West Ham?

I know he's said publically that maybe he should go to a 'top 4' side, just so he could be considered for the England GK spot over that clown Robinson.

[ThaSaltCracka]

Hmmm... Jussi, interesting. I would be surprised by that, but more surprised by Green. West Ham probably think they have a chance at sneaking into Europe.

Clunker, I do think Gilberto is gone in the summer. Flamini has been superb this season, and the signing of Diarra all but signals it IMO. As it is, we have a fat stock of CM's. This is pure speculation, but I can't help think Wenger told him something like "I know you want first team football, but Flamini has been great, I can't drop him. Your time is probably almost up here, but we need your help this season to win some trophy's. Do that, and I will let you go in the Summer."

[PITTM]

I would want Robert Green if i was an Arsenal fan.