tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5482311793497218872024-03-06T10:56:09.129+08:00red and white zoneType Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.comBlogger260125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-41562620908121840822011-05-23T13:42:00.001+08:002011-05-23T13:44:19.385+08:00Arsenal FC: Ricardo Alvarez Is the First Signing for Next Season<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtfssrD6NNLrJBxAO61mvtQLlLEyN9V6PsibSA5oTm2U-6-i_8ecp5eikpmRSzbhaiA9wIJszPfokq3oPXvz9AfiYUEdJFhTx6vjH4fIgPfEtg7WXztSY5BUzZzwsqj6AiesN8FhtC2Xr/s1600/128833_crop_340x234.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 220px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtfssrD6NNLrJBxAO61mvtQLlLEyN9V6PsibSA5oTm2U-6-i_8ecp5eikpmRSzbhaiA9wIJszPfokq3oPXvz9AfiYUEdJFhTx6vjH4fIgPfEtg7WXztSY5BUzZzwsqj6AiesN8FhtC2Xr/s320/128833_crop_340x234.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609783191382643010" /></a>With the fantastic and breathtaking Premier League coming to an end for the season, Arsenal stands at the fourth position in the table under the leadership of manager Arsene Wenger. After making an eye-catching start and going on with a style at the midseason, Arsenal finally succumbed to pressure and lost out in the silver race.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Wenger promises to splash cash for Arsenal squad next season in an exception to his trend of low-budget signings. With captain Cesc Fabregas already again in the centre of "he-stays-he-leaves" drama, it seems like Samir Nasri is also on the verge of leaving Emirates this summer.<br /><br />Though the news comes up everyday with a twist that whether Wenger wants to make stay Fabregas of let him go for a tag of $50 million, nothing has been confirmed about the status. As for the "contract rebel" Nasri (yes, that is what they call him now for not signing a contract), Wenger is trying to sort out a deal soon so that Nasri cannot leave for free at least.<br /><br />It is obvious that Wenger will buy some players if he sells out some of his teammates, and reports claim that he has already made his first move in signing an attacking midfielder for the Gunners. <br /><br />As per reports, Wenger has agreed to move for a pre-contract signing for Ricardo Alvarez, a 23-year-old attacking midfielder who currently plays for Argnetinian club Velez Sarsfield. Ricardo's contract runs out in June with his club, so Wenger can land him for free.<br /><br />Th Argentinian plays as a second striker as well as an attacking midfielder for Velez. However, stats show that he scored a mere two goals in 46 matches from that position.<br /><br />The 6'2" Alvarez played only 46 matches during his spell of three years at Velez, which is due to the fact that he was injured. Reports fail to identify a solid reason as to why Wenger is going for this under-average player from an unusual recruiting location.<br /><br />On the positive side, reports claim that Alvarez has plenty of pace to bust attacks into the box and can run across the midfield to play at different attacking positions. He is also know for his powerful shots from range which can (sometimes) score a goal or two.<br /><br />Arsene Wenger surely looks to make his attacking options stronger with this signing, but will this gamble be a good one for the Gunners? Wenger should definitely look forward to spending good cash in summer now to add some amount of satisfaction to the Gunners.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-91992139191302562182011-04-29T11:23:00.001+08:002011-04-29T11:25:00.021+08:00Arsenal Ready to Make Record Breaking Move for £22.5m Real Madrid Striker Karim Benzema<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfw-QwHuPMUkvrqIQRwV7I2MCnwKHqvtITFni4yWxPQYmKHed_UuYkcCDfUCU4yAbHPtohXX1_Y8nKOdR3ELebYGmuIsujKmiyw7m3OPXBlmHVcP9yMP2MiWtt42O4gM8ixwOu4kgu5DF/s1600/PA-10246401.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfw-QwHuPMUkvrqIQRwV7I2MCnwKHqvtITFni4yWxPQYmKHed_UuYkcCDfUCU4yAbHPtohXX1_Y8nKOdR3ELebYGmuIsujKmiyw7m3OPXBlmHVcP9yMP2MiWtt42O4gM8ixwOu4kgu5DF/s320/PA-10246401.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600841291852949666" /></a>Arsenal are ready to make a significant bid for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema this summer as Arsene Wenger looks to improve his side’s striking options. The French international has long been a target of the North London club and the Gunners boss will hope that the lure of regular first team football may tempt the former Lyon striker.<br /><br />The 23 year old Bernabeu star is very much a back up player and though he initially failed to make the most of his run in the first team, that came as a result of long term injury to Argentine Gonzalo Higuain, a run of good form has led to the Real Madrid man netting 22 goals this season.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />However Jose Mourinho has made it abundantly clear that he will be looking to refresh his attacking options with a move to sign another striker which will in turn leave Benzema once again warming the bench and could lead to the powerful forward looking to leave the Spanish giants.<br /><br />Arsenal have had to rely heavily on Robin Van Persie for firepower over the past couple of seasons and injury concerns plague the Dutch international who has missed more games than he has started during his seven years at the club. New signing Marouane Chamakh started the season brightly but has looked well off the pace since Christmas and back up alternatives Nicklas Bendtner and Carlos Vela are tipped to leave the club at the end of the season.<br /><br />Whilst Arsene Wenger is known for being something of a spendthrift after six seasons without tangible success or silverware, the Frenchman is ready to make big name moves to help appease the star players he has at the club who are looking for a statement of intent in the form of established star signings this summer.<br /><br />Real Madrid be looking for at least €25m (£22.5m) for Benzema and whilst that would represent a trasnfer record fee for Arsenal it is still some way below the €41m paid to Lyon for the young striker just under two years ago and a seemingly fair fee for a player of his age and potential.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-71633819224741721302011-04-21T01:47:00.002+08:002011-04-21T01:56:12.730+08:00Arsenal set to sign bundesliga top striker<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORG7-wZkXCu8aUcGH9ZFgcAHSBDJZJua_RiOBftMdDAH8MlfyAAw98gDzjnY8S5LKzxcKcReM3awbPrlz4DRFtwLhghEDwGX9zxp1JKNm1cjN6gN0KFZ-CqfTq4XXRXRZnzIl3m4eur4H/s1600/papiss-cisse-sc-freiburg-514.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORG7-wZkXCu8aUcGH9ZFgcAHSBDJZJua_RiOBftMdDAH8MlfyAAw98gDzjnY8S5LKzxcKcReM3awbPrlz4DRFtwLhghEDwGX9zxp1JKNm1cjN6gN0KFZ-CqfTq4XXRXRZnzIl3m4eur4H/s320/papiss-cisse-sc-freiburg-514.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597725469421883538" /></a>Arsenal will need to part with at least £13million if they want to solve their goalscoring crisis with Papiss Demba Cisse.<br />Arsene Wenger’s side have scored just seven goals in their last seven games – a poor return for their usually prolific free-flowing football – and have all but surrendered the title to Manchester United.<br />Meanwhile, Freiburg’s 25-year-old striker has scored 20 goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances this season putting the Senegalese forward at the top of a number of Europe’s top sides’ shopping list.<br />But German newspaper TZ claims the club has told anyone interested in the striker not to waste their time with any bids below £13m.<br /><br />SOURCE: talkSPORT<br /><br />Whilst there is no denying that Papiss Demba Cisse is in a rich vein of form<span id="fullpost">it is also true that the Senegal international striker is a player that most football supporters had not have heard of prior to his Bundesliga exploits this term.<br /><br />Arsene Wenger is known for opting to cut costs by spending relatively small amounts on rough diamonds that he can then hone into the finished polished article and it’s a process that may help Arsenal to keep the club on a sound financial footing, however it does require these players longer to bed in than established stars, which has in some ways left the North London club to be in a continual state of transition.<br /><br />25 year Cisse has done fantastically well this season but it is worth noting that prior to this term the Dakar born striker had scored a grand total of six top tier goals having previously played predominantly in France’s Ligue 2.<br /><br />Wenger is also tracking £9m rated Lorient forward Kevin Gameiro who has been very consistent over the past three seasons and is currently the second top scorer in France’s top tier, again though, he is not a big name. Clearly Arsenal have bought Laurent Koscielny from the same club last summer, could that signing be considered a success? Perhaps a month ago it could’ve been but the Frenchman has been shaky of late.<br /><br />There has been much speculation that the Gunners boss is keen to chop and change his front line and such action seems much needed. Nicklas Bendtner and Carlos Vela may be offloaded and there is even talk of a return to France for Marouane Chamakh, the Moroccan started the season with a bang but has looked out of his depth since November.<br /><br />Arsenal supporters would probably like to see the club chase relative big names, maybe an offer for the likes of Karim Benzema, but Wenger seems happy to continue his tried and tested pattern of expenditure and in the main that plan of action has been a huge success but after six seasons without silverware, as it may well turn out to be, perhaps it’s time for the Emirates Stadium side to look for immediate returns on their investments?</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-85238649056996678112011-04-20T04:29:00.002+08:002011-04-20T04:35:11.995+08:00Ben Foster Could be on his way to North London<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7TQQ8tjTH9YvVLdPUKR9Zp9VnB2AVZcqH9m7gkRH3fm6fgyVjxzPKL4XE67pi8UPU4HQg9fpjojgOMho67meMR4wHUxWO35KVZWeBAJagGq7jnRHOSFmAvbzfTo60EbR3mehRRrVqFUK/s1600/Ben_Foster_1701139c.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7TQQ8tjTH9YvVLdPUKR9Zp9VnB2AVZcqH9m7gkRH3fm6fgyVjxzPKL4XE67pi8UPU4HQg9fpjojgOMho67meMR4wHUxWO35KVZWeBAJagGq7jnRHOSFmAvbzfTo60EbR3mehRRrVqFUK/s320/Ben_Foster_1701139c.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597395391288109234" /></a>Quite how Ben Foster has doubled in value since Sir Alex Ferguson shrewdly offloaded him to Birmingham City I have no idea. £12million for a goalkeeper in a side that is clutching the Carling Cup as it spins at pace into the vortex of the relegation zone? As sensational as a Pot Noodle made with water from a hot tap.<br /><br />It is a no brainer that both North Loindon managers need a new recruit in the goalkeeper department. Arsenal went past a sign marked, ‘No Return’ some time ago. About the same time they brought Mad Jens out of his Cryogenic Freezing Unit.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Spurs undoubtedly need someone to boost Gomes, who really too often looks like a man alone. Actually what Tottenham really need is a settled back four. There isn’t a keeper in the world who plays confidently in front of four new face each week.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-76358461042822851802011-04-04T18:59:00.001+08:002011-04-04T19:02:31.403+08:00Taarabt hopes for Arsenal move<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3FFMSXkSSzusrKbghHkolvGWsWlNwz2nKVn_Lfm9UNt00yqQGQ24wY3LC_jruExYS_60TEG08-lbh0b1DkH_bCBvq2T1Y1QG8irxcIz5_w3_PUhNXqyHiAxaQPZ4HaQTkCqNsCk8D3su4/s1600/adel-taarabt-qpr-v-preston_2373744.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3FFMSXkSSzusrKbghHkolvGWsWlNwz2nKVn_Lfm9UNt00yqQGQ24wY3LC_jruExYS_60TEG08-lbh0b1DkH_bCBvq2T1Y1QG8irxcIz5_w3_PUhNXqyHiAxaQPZ4HaQTkCqNsCk8D3su4/s320/adel-taarabt-qpr-v-preston_2373744.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591682071193329618" /></a>QPR striker Adel Taarabt has expressed a desire to leave the club in the summer with Arsenal believed to be his preferred destination<br /><br />The Championship's player of the season is believed to have his heart set on a move to one of the country's top sides, irrespective of whether Rangers make it to the Premier League.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />The 21-year-old, who has 15 goals to his name this season, has always said he wants to play on the biggest stage possible and Arsenal are thought to be his preferred choice.<br /><br />Earlier this season he told the Metro: "'I like the way Arsenal play. If Arsenal come, of course, I'll be very happy."<br /><br />The former Tottenham youngster courted controversy earlier this season when he admitted signing at White Hart Lane four years ago and instead should have headed for the Emirates.<br /><br />"I would have had a better chance at Arsenal. It was a mistake [joining Spurs]. I would progress with Arsene Wenger because he is one of the best managers in the world," he said.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-85857626486562199912010-11-03T18:12:00.001+08:002010-11-03T18:14:49.915+08:00Arsenal chase the ‘German Messi’, Marko Marin<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTaQV-1uQ76ChSVsCWBpfBVDa56YJMTiJ3nB38qs2hy-bYrZ4wB-wXQ6jrBLQLoc-abYy1JZb78W7yBlvN48ngYZ0pM9LFNZoohNAcZ5JMCTwtXaUesry-eo61_kfc8bksnon34FYrKYpI/s1600/g101103marin--128876652656526400.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTaQV-1uQ76ChSVsCWBpfBVDa56YJMTiJ3nB38qs2hy-bYrZ4wB-wXQ6jrBLQLoc-abYy1JZb78W7yBlvN48ngYZ0pM9LFNZoohNAcZ5JMCTwtXaUesry-eo61_kfc8bksnon34FYrKYpI/s320/g101103marin--128876652656526400.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535264834600444146" /></a>German international Marko Marin's future remains unclear but reports in both the German and Bosnian media suggest Arsenal are the leading contenders to secure the 21-year-old's signature. Currently with Werder Bremen, the Bosnian-born midfielder has been linked with a host of clubs in recent months but the Gunners are rumoured to have moved ahead of the field.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Dubbed the "German Messi" by some people - probably his agent - Marin cost Bremen £7m when they signed him from Borussia Monchengladbach last year, but German reports suggest that his evaluation has now increased to around £15m. Whether Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger could ever bring himself to part with such an amount, given that he's as tight as Cesc Fabregas's hamstring, isn't known but if he doesn't make a bid, Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Manchester United might make an approach for the player who's made 15 appearances for Germany since his debut in 2008.<br /><br />Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear the Blues have no interest in signing Liverpool's ailing striker Fernando Torres. The Spaniard's goalscoring form has gone into recession this year and Ancelotti has no plans to initiate a rescue package for the 26-year-old. "I always said that Torres is not our aim for the future because we have trust in a lot of our young players," Ancelotti told reporters, adding: "We have fantastic strikers in Drogba and Nicolas Anelka, and we have Salomon Kalou, fantastic young players like Daniel Sturridge and Gael Kakuta... if everyone stays fit, we won't need anyone else. I think we have a fantastic squad."<br /><br />According to German rag Express (not to be confused with its British namesake), Manchester City are looking to spend their way out of their current malaise, which has seen then suffer back-to-back Premier League defeats to Arsenal and Wolves. Apparently City intend to bring winger Renato Augusto to Eastlands to strengthen their existing overpaid and underperforming squad. The 22-year-old Brazilian is plying is trade with German outfit Bayer Leverkusen this season, though a gammy knee has sidelined him recently. Nonetheless it's alleged City are preparing a £17m offer for the player. The Express quotes Leverkusen's sporting director Rudi Voeller as saying: "This shows that we have a good team here in Leverkusen. However, we cannot compete financially with the big European clubs."<br /><br />And the Daily Mirror claims that City are also pursuing Blackpool keeper Matty Gilks as they seek to find a long-term understudy for Joe Hart. That role is currently filled by Ireland shotstopper Shay Given but with him rumoured to be leaving in January's transfer window, City boss Roberto Mancini is already eyeing replacements. The Mirror says that Mancini has been to watch Gilks in action for Blackpool and with the keeper's contract set to expire next summer, the Tangerines are keen to cash in on him while they can.<br /><br />Finally, Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has dismissed as ludicrous reports suggesting Manchester United are about to pounce for Marek Hamsik and Edinson Cavani. If the rumours are to be believed United boss Alex Ferguson is about to loosen the purse strings as he looks to strengthen his squad but not as far as de Laurentiis is concerned. In an interview with Italian radio station Radio Marte he said: "I've read that Ferguson would like to buy Hamsik and Cavani for €40m (£35m) and I started to laugh.<br /><br /><br />Read more: http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/70966,sport,football,transfer-talk-arsenal-chase-the-german-messi-marko-marin-chelsea-not-interested-in-fernando-torres#ixzz14DFOmdhr</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-23795267218777948392010-10-26T21:35:00.001+08:002010-10-26T21:37:58.347+08:00Arsenal Chasing German Defenders Benedikt Hoewedes & Per Mertesacker - Reports<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mFqXJFex8bOIZthBxvpqeZ4Onkz0JkRsfJO00PS2hP-UqI6-XASqqAhO4ur_IYl3KvoIYLuq6qdeaUiflQdgtwyOulqJHq6TeeRlKcv3NNOGKhxbo0FciXo6t5j5_fmdjZ5eonMfVgIZ/s1600/julian-schieber-benedikt-hoewedes-2009-10-17-14-14-11.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mFqXJFex8bOIZthBxvpqeZ4Onkz0JkRsfJO00PS2hP-UqI6-XASqqAhO4ur_IYl3KvoIYLuq6qdeaUiflQdgtwyOulqJHq6TeeRlKcv3NNOGKhxbo0FciXo6t5j5_fmdjZ5eonMfVgIZ/s320/julian-schieber-benedikt-hoewedes-2009-10-17-14-14-11.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532348490153248130" /></a>Benedikt Hoewedes has joined the growing list of German defenders linked with a move to Arsenal. According to widespread sources in England, Germany, Italy and Spain, the Gunners are interested in signing the Schalke centre-half, and could soon table a bid on the order of €9.1 million.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Hoewedes' current contract runs until 2014, but with Schalke struggling in both footballing and financial terms, the Gelsenkirchen outfit might jump at the opportunity to make some much needed cash.<br /><br />Other reports suggest that Arsenal have renewed their interest in Werder Bremen centre-half Per Mertesacker, and are mulling over an offer of €16m for the Germany international.<br /><br />Whether Schalke or Bremen are open to releasing their star defenders during the January transfer window is still in question, as is the players' interest in a move abroad. In addition to Hoewedes and Mertesacker, Arsenal have previously been linked with Stuttgart centre-half Serdar Tasci.<br /></span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-36020794735087112582010-10-25T20:46:00.003+08:002010-10-25T20:49:26.309+08:00'New Cesc Fabregas' Sergi Samper, 15, to spark Arsenal-Barcelona battle<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIrHzCh7O3bbWhxr2d_ytQdrCfvB0329JQYDggg_wefPFWPlIpVHrKpzVvrf0Q0DwvQpdtGvhgUU015W_KScQ6aayea_yt2eaXGEK89gVZRyynd1MHaFSgW8o9lTGKB8gRcGV7vDfLl5Xs/s1600/122.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIrHzCh7O3bbWhxr2d_ytQdrCfvB0329JQYDggg_wefPFWPlIpVHrKpzVvrf0Q0DwvQpdtGvhgUU015W_KScQ6aayea_yt2eaXGEK89gVZRyynd1MHaFSgW8o9lTGKB8gRcGV7vDfLl5Xs/s320/122.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531964843451519618" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">Barcelona are set to face another transfer scrap with Arsenal, but this time the boot is on the other foot as the Gunners aim to snatch top-rated Sergi Samper - dubbed the 'next Cesc Fabregas' - from under the Catalan club's noses.</span><br />According to reports in Spain, Samper is holding out over a contract offer from Barca with Arsene Wenger tracking the wonderkid midfielder as he approaches his 16th birthday.<br /><br />The saga could come to a head in January, with Arsenal rumoured to be considering making their official offer when the transfer window reopens.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />And it has echoes of the situation that saw Fabregas, who is now Arsenal captain, turn his back on Barcelona to pursue a career in London at a similar age in 2003.<br /><br />Samper is considered to be one of the 'next big things' in Spanish football, and could be offered a tempting four-year contract by the Premier League club as well as assurances of regular first-team football from a relatively young age.<br /><br />And, according to Spanish sources, he is tempted to follow in the footsteps of Fabregas, who, after developing his skills in the Arsenal set-up, is now one of the world's most sought-after midfielders.<br /><br />If Samper does move, it would be a bitter irony for Barca, who thought they'd won an ill-tempered tug of war over Fabregas in the summer before the Catalan-born 23-year-old opted to stay at the Emirates Stadium instead of moving back to La Liga.<br /><br /><br />Read more: http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/845045-new-cesc-fabregas-sergi-samper-to-spark-arsenal-barca-battle#ixzz13NGVWZdb<br /></span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-44693502010110154792010-10-25T20:41:00.002+08:002010-10-25T20:45:13.973+08:00Wenger: Eastlands Victory Just the Start for Arsenal<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UoR98Ipo5QHDLwGWuCnyCBfjZxxk14LsDy1p3x2fy7EyI5HCDKTcHXlT3xrNBhvQPBNLDbJ8uEJjnaje_H22Q7A9W66E84gorwhP4CVa0jejBGJQuZkAzvmwJ_HJljRYASG30AWNqnVk/s1600/article-1288007602693-0BC0A241000005DC-879209_304x156.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 103px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UoR98Ipo5QHDLwGWuCnyCBfjZxxk14LsDy1p3x2fy7EyI5HCDKTcHXlT3xrNBhvQPBNLDbJ8uEJjnaje_H22Q7A9W66E84gorwhP4CVa0jejBGJQuZkAzvmwJ_HJljRYASG30AWNqnVk/s200/article-1288007602693-0BC0A241000005DC-879209_304x156.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5531963563123745778" /></a>Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes that yesterday's impressive 3-0 win away to ten-man Manchester City will ignite a realistic title challenge for his side. Speaking afterwards, he was understandably delighted with the fighting nature of the performance at the City of Manchester Stadium.<br /><br />"It was important to get a win in a big place to strengthen belief and continue our march forward," said the 61 year-old.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />"I think that collectively, we completely dominated the game and I hope it will translate into confident performances in later fixtures."<br /><br />The home side had Dedryck Boyata sent off five minutes in after his clumsy challenge clearly denied striker Marouane Chamakh a goal-scoring opportunity and from then on, Roberto Mancini's charges were always underdogs.<br /><br />A crisp passing movement mid-way through the first period saw Andrey Arshavin put Samir Nasri clear on the right and the Frenchman beat Joe Hart at the near post to net his fourth league effort of the season.<br /><br />In a feisty contest, there was still time before the interval for Mark Clattenburg to hand out five bookings and for Hart to save a penalty from Cesc Fabregas.<br /><br />City started brightly in the second half, and the Gunners' goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski was called upon to make some impressive saves, as the Pole looked to stake a claim for the starting berth even when Manuel Almunia returns from injury.<br /><br />Having weathered the storm, two more typically well put together attacks saw Alex Song and substitute Nicklas Bendtner put some flattering gloss on the scoreline late on.<br /><br />Following the win, that sees Arsenal move up to second in the Premier League table on goal difference, their boss continued to praise the concentration of his team.<br /><br />"It looked to me from the bench that it was a sending off and the referee had no option," Wenger, who last week admitted to harbouring an interest in Bolton's Gary Cahill, went on. After the sending off it became electric and we got some yellow cards quite quickly. It was very important that we did not get a second yellow."<br /><br />"I asked the players at half-time to focus on playing football and not just defending our advantage."</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-37747932497723840162010-09-03T02:02:00.001+08:002010-09-03T02:04:31.902+08:00Ryo Miyaichi 'set for Arsenal transfer' as Wenger beats rivals to wonderkid<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_mCsE8zFJ5ZDzc-DQ95W0QeHcth3g0tw3_h7-Ljl58gPXzXlLnTCIlwX369CoqZWQPYh3fG7rv2sSREb5Syc9pzgTj9B6tvg3esKmYcXkDzPVZ5Secu8njy8OsM0aFJ3mIFSc0h_zCI0/s1600/article-1283428662910-0B03464F000005DC-185396_304x156.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 156px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_mCsE8zFJ5ZDzc-DQ95W0QeHcth3g0tw3_h7-Ljl58gPXzXlLnTCIlwX369CoqZWQPYh3fG7rv2sSREb5Syc9pzgTj9B6tvg3esKmYcXkDzPVZ5Secu8njy8OsM0aFJ3mIFSc0h_zCI0/s400/article-1283428662910-0B03464F000005DC-185396_304x156.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512378584606538850" /></a>The 17-year-old striker is to be offered a long-term deal at the Emirates Stadium after impressing on trial - as well as turning in some star performances for his country's Under-19s team recently.<br /><br />Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is thought to have sent officials out to Japan to finalise the details of a deal with Miyaichi, which would be confirmed in January.<br /><br />The teenager, who was also said to be on the radars of European giants AC Milan and Ajax, currently attends Chukyodai Chuyko High School.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />But he would be eligible to move to England to continue his footballing education when he turns 18 in December.<br /><br />Miyaichi, who played for Japan's Under-17s at the World Cup in Nigeria in 2009, is currently out injured with a broken leg but is expected to return to fitness before signing for the Gunners at the turn of the year. </span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-30054217192550843812010-08-04T06:16:00.001+08:002010-08-04T06:22:43.468+08:00Montpellier defender Spahic nears Arsenal move<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6I-l8pCcyD488EA-sK9e9tlOP3MYsl-HiBgViNEB-0347wveWnNncsYfnqdCk1yrK4udzXmVZ0xkIOoVvXh0iUaVvAYNdQFgVEC2tYLRojqTT8g7sm5kmvKnou-y9apqsSBaD92SAC9D6/s1600/232642.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6I-l8pCcyD488EA-sK9e9tlOP3MYsl-HiBgViNEB-0347wveWnNncsYfnqdCk1yrK4udzXmVZ0xkIOoVvXh0iUaVvAYNdQFgVEC2tYLRojqTT8g7sm5kmvKnou-y9apqsSBaD92SAC9D6/s400/232642.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501312473730880002" /></a>Montpellier defender Emir Spahic has claimed Arsenal are in negotiations for his signature.<br /><br />Arsene Wenger has confirmed he is looking to bring in at least one more defender before the close of the transfer window and reports over the weekend suggested Spahic, 29, was a possible target.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />"The most important thing is that so far the negotiations go as planned and that the transfer could be completed soon," Spahic told SportSport.ba.<br /><br />"Arsenal is a great club, I'm an admirer of Arsene Wenger and I hope that Montpellier will cooperate."<br /><br />Spahic, the Bosnia and Herzegovina captain, is under contract with Montpellier until 2014.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-26920420781949473002010-08-02T04:00:00.003+08:002010-08-02T04:03:44.271+08:00arsenal win Emirates Cup<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrJV1Zi2mB9GSYSJrKJVYni9sTxa6_XB6ATtKA7Zd0TUsPAlbOBlPlOvaVjfbnVmEXeBL5i4AK2mUxJnbLifsqlOA6yQbRQT1w6YnC0RCe9YstdOI_WlX0_tH6XpjCNWcCdBai92DbUkV/s1600/gun__1280310071_emiratescup2010.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrJV1Zi2mB9GSYSJrKJVYni9sTxa6_XB6ATtKA7Zd0TUsPAlbOBlPlOvaVjfbnVmEXeBL5i4AK2mUxJnbLifsqlOA6yQbRQT1w6YnC0RCe9YstdOI_WlX0_tH6XpjCNWcCdBai92DbUkV/s400/gun__1280310071_emiratescup2010.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500534504435830114" /></a><br />Carlos Vela, Bacary Sagna and Samir Nasri found the net before Celtic hit back with late goals as Arsenal won the Emirates Cup with a 3-2 win.<br /><br />It took Theo Walcott, who looked fresh from a summer's rest, just three minutes to open up the Celtic defence as Vela swept the Gunners into the lead.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Arsenal doubled their advantage just before half-time when Celtic failed to clear a corner and full-back Sagna blasted an 18-yard angled drive inside the near post, before substitute Samir Nasri swept the Gunners into a 3-0 lead on 51 minutes following more good work by Walcott down the right.<br /><br />Jack Wilshere, who produced an all-action display which was almost capped by a goal when his stunning first-half volley smashed against the crossbar, showed his inexperience by wrestling Celtic substitute Fortune to the floor in the penalty area on 69 minutes, but was let off when former Manchester City striker Georgios Samaras ballooned his spot-kick over the crossbar.<br /><br />Manuel Almunia, who had not had much to do, pulled off a fine one-handed save to deny Efrain Juarez, but was beaten on 73 minutes when Daryl Murphy, a summer signing from Sunderland, knocked the ball in after it rebounded across the six-yard box.<br /><br />The Arsenal goalkeeper denied Murphy when, with eight minutes left, the reshuffled home defence was opened up again, before Ki Sung-yueng eventually made it 3-2 with a close-range effort.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-35422421972393326652010-07-25T17:43:00.003+08:002010-07-25T17:46:52.022+08:00IGOR AKINFEEV WANTS TO JOIN ARSENAL<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEp0BxYPZnTrc_SzxTTEBm4MmnhSf8s88e16NOvKTLWDJr7Cv1-3P2XrEqSa3WVyviuftJL9v7PhCAuOSoEZSEyMWs6fYSjAJ6bTXCTue0fcl2kZ9b_A52iknYZw6PFHn5Xl_sAtc5ImTA/s1600/6_316_FULL_akinfeev-b.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 217px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEp0BxYPZnTrc_SzxTTEBm4MmnhSf8s88e16NOvKTLWDJr7Cv1-3P2XrEqSa3WVyviuftJL9v7PhCAuOSoEZSEyMWs6fYSjAJ6bTXCTue0fcl2kZ9b_A52iknYZw6PFHn5Xl_sAtc5ImTA/s320/6_316_FULL_akinfeev-b.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497777901840523858" /></a>RUSSIA goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev has told Arsene Wenger: I’d love to team up with Andrey Arshavin at Arsenal.<br /><br />CSKA Moscow star Akinfeev, 24, is a target for the Gunners and Manchester United after impressive Champions League displays last season.<br /><br /><br />But Arsenal are the favourites to grab his signature after Emirates ace Arshavin gave the Gunners a glowing reference.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br /><br />WIN £50,000: PLAY DAILY STAR FANTASY FOOTBALL NOW!<br /><br />And Akinfeev said: “Arsenal and Manchester United are two of the very best clubs in the world.<br /><br /><br />“If both of them are going to be looking for keepers this summer – or even the next summer – then of course I am interested.<br /><br /><br />“I have spoken with Arshavin about Arsenal and London life.<br /><br /><br />“He has only had good things to say about the club and the city.<br />“He said some very nice things about me going on to be the best goalkeeper in the world – and that he would like me to reach that goal at Arsenal with him.<br /><br /><br />“They are a great club with a great manager. Of course there is every chance this will be the last season for Edwin Van der Sar.<br /><br /><br />“To be the No.1 for Manchester United would be a great honour too.<br /><br /><br />“They are the biggest football club in the world and, to be their No.1 for a length of time, you know you will have success.<br /><br /><br />“Juventus have also expressed an interest in me – but Arshavin has sold England to me very well.<br /><br /><br />“My contract doesn’t expire until 2013 but I have a great relationship with my president.<br /><br /><br />“If the right offer, both for me and the club came in, I don’t think anybody would stand in my way.<br /><br /><br />“I have been in Russia for a lot of years now and feel ready for a new challenge.” </span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-68128772304806212282010-07-22T01:01:00.000+08:002010-07-22T01:05:49.150+08:00Football jersey Muslim should not wearKOSMO! carried a report about Muslims who wittingly or unwittingly wear football jerseys which display images of crosses, liquor brands and devils.<br /><br />Johor Religious Council adviser Datuk Nooh Gadot said wearing such jerseys were forbidden in Islam.<br /><br />“It is as if Muslims are worshipping and exalting the symbols of other religions. Islam does not compromise on this matter, regardless of whether it is worn for fun, fashion or sport,” he said.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Perak Mufti Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria agreed with Nooh and said although Islam did not forbid its followers from participating in sports or dressing up, it has to be done within the boundaries of Islamic law.<br /><br />Among the football teams whose crests carry images of the cross are Brazil, Portugal, Serbia, Barcelona and Norway, while Manchester United carries the “Red Devil” slogan on its team crest.<br /><br />> Metro Ahad carried an expose on a “beautician” who performs botox injections and liposuction in a hotel room in the Klang Valley.<br /><br />Two reporters went undercover as a couple and managed to set an appointment for a botox treatment with the “beautician”, named Lim.<br /><br />The reporters described the room as cluttered with cases and bottles of botox and used needles strewn on the bed.<br /><br />The price quoted for the services ranged between RM60 and RM800.<br /><br />Lim, who claimed to be a doctor with five years’ experience, said the price is cheaper for a jab with shorter needle and more expensive for a jab with a long needle as the effect will last longer.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-80224636576730828752010-07-20T23:33:00.001+08:002010-07-20T23:34:53.031+08:00EXCLUSIVE: Wenger weighing up move for Honda<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixE3XJjbPx2AuWvbEjtNmMrKykMyG9zpGFIcl3fVhlQFhxggWzMzbc62dtZ0yw9NDz1VQIJVXLMHfMB6yQTWzBFsXNH5r0VudsFfARFd9Rl2I5ECQdYDeNWQIey_v1UmZvlgSVx1aVn8Bb/s1600/400x400_1277408149_spt_ai_denmark_japan_18.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixE3XJjbPx2AuWvbEjtNmMrKykMyG9zpGFIcl3fVhlQFhxggWzMzbc62dtZ0yw9NDz1VQIJVXLMHfMB6yQTWzBFsXNH5r0VudsFfARFd9Rl2I5ECQdYDeNWQIey_v1UmZvlgSVx1aVn8Bb/s320/400x400_1277408149_spt_ai_denmark_japan_18.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496011809876433202" /></a>Sport.co.uk understands that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is considering a possible offer for Japanese international Keisuke Honda. Liverpool, however, who were previously linked with the player are yet to make any contact with the attacker's representatives. <br /> <br />The 24-year-old CSKA Moscow striker has been subject of intense speculation since his<span id="fullpost"> successful World Cup campaign with Japan although thus far no formal bids have been launched.<br /> <br />The Japanese international started his career at Gamba Osaka, the same club as former Arsenal player Junichi Inamoto, before moving onto Nagoya Grampus Eight, the club from whom Arsene Wenger joined the Gunners in 1996.<br /><br />Moving to Russia in January, the player's star has continued to rise with agent Kees Ploegsma revealing to Sport.co.uk:<br /><br />“A few clubs have contacted me about the situation and asked me questions about Keisuke but no club has made a serious offer for him. No one has contacted the club to make a formal offer.<br /> <br />Responding to suggestions that Arsenal and LIverpool were leading the chase, Ploegsma stressed:<br /><br />“Liverpool have not been in contact regarding him.”<br /> <br />Asked if Arsene Wenger's praise of the player at the World Cup would leed to any movement on the part of the Arsenal coaching hierarchy, the representative continued:<br /> <br />“I don’t know yet. There are several clubs interested but so far nothing has happened regarding a formal offer.<br /><br />"I don’t know if CSKA Moscow will let him leave, or what sort of money they will be asking. Discussions will take place when a club makes a formal offer for the player.”</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-85607283645745969602010-07-20T04:24:00.001+08:002010-07-20T15:58:21.883+08:00Arsenal - Sebastian Giovinco again linked with Emirates move<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bzR2kIYtgUT2PD7DhOUlkraEkW0JdpuGHXOvPLF0HuW6GSrHXDDRpYYlPy_miCBps0YF4AwX16aFOodili10vqjMs5M8ODWpOKIC5WeU530vw62SAsNKGVcAEmjDqTtU3PBFe93fQxRH/s1600/0c34c453-a726-454a-a03d-d49acb2075a7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 211px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5bzR2kIYtgUT2PD7DhOUlkraEkW0JdpuGHXOvPLF0HuW6GSrHXDDRpYYlPy_miCBps0YF4AwX16aFOodili10vqjMs5M8ODWpOKIC5WeU530vw62SAsNKGVcAEmjDqTtU3PBFe93fQxRH/s320/0c34c453-a726-454a-a03d-d49acb2075a7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495894649313592610" /></a>Arsenal are once again being linked with a move for Serie ‘A’ star Sebastien Giovinco.<br /><br />The 23-year-old has been linked with a move to the Emirates on several occasions over the past couple of years, and now Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is ready to move on his interest for Juve’s forgotten man.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />A product of the youth team at the bianconeri, Giovinco made his debut in 2006 before building on his reputation during a season on loan at Empoli the following season.<br /><br />On return to the Stadio Olimpico, Giovinco began to feature more in the side, but the addition of Werder Bremen playmaker Diego last summer coupled with the arrival of a new manager has seen Giovinco struggle to make a major impact on the first team.<br /><br />Having lost his place in the Italian national setup, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the player is keen to gain first team action somewhere, news that has put the Gunners on alert over a possible switch.<br /><br />Wenger faces competition for the player's signature though, with Parma reportedly making a bid for the player early on Sunday morning.<br /><br />Tuttosport reports that the Italian side have made a bid in the region of €3.5 million, news that will force Wenger's hand if he does wish to make a move.<br /><br />Bari are also thought to be interested in 'La Formica Atomica', but the lure of Premier Leaue and Champions League football could be a deciding factor should the north London club attempt to sign the player in the coming months.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-57287954806337727732010-07-14T18:48:00.002+08:002010-07-14T18:55:00.709+08:00Vermaelen, Djourou, Koscielny and now...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkM2-EH3FJZwi_PYKjMjfa2HjECv_aTxMTRUjlhSmwJ01vbQONIqcej4bLpoVA-f9NkEAGyHpEGsXpojijbWxYFVq7YnjHXllThQ2Yly39ke66GaHIWI7a8EDtfkEaeLQw2XAh-sjwKAEn/s1600/cristian-zapata-real-madrid.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 234px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkM2-EH3FJZwi_PYKjMjfa2HjECv_aTxMTRUjlhSmwJ01vbQONIqcej4bLpoVA-f9NkEAGyHpEGsXpojijbWxYFVq7YnjHXllThQ2Yly39ke66GaHIWI7a8EDtfkEaeLQw2XAh-sjwKAEn/s320/cristian-zapata-real-madrid.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493713623664719842" /></a>Arsene Wenger is thought to have identified Udinese centre-back Cristian Zapata as his next recruit after admitting that he was on the lookout for further defensive cover.<br /><br />Despite recruiting French-Polish defender Laurent Koscielny from Lorient last week, and having Thomas Vermaelen and Johan Djourou on the books, the Gunners are still short on options at the back. Philippe Senderos quit the Emirates to join Fulham earlier in the month while Mikael Silvestre and William Gallas are out-of-contract and Sol Campbell is shopping around for a lucrative final contract with the likes of Sunderland and Celtic interested parties.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Speaking last week in the aftermath of his second summer signing Arsene Wenger told Arsenal.com:<br /><br />"We identified Koscielny as a very, very strong centre half.<br /><br />"He can be an outstanding addition to our team. But it is not over, we are still open to buy.<br /><br />"We are still on the market for another defensive player because we have the need for one more."<br /><br />The Daily Mail now claims that Columbian international Zapata, who has been linked with a move to England in the past, is now one of Arsenal’s top transfer targets despite retaining a value around £15 million. At 6 ft 2 inches tall and still only 23-years-old, the highly experienced Zebrette star is also being monitored by the likes of AC Milan, Juventus and Fiorentina.<br /><br />It is not the first time the Gunners have been linked with one of Udinese's stars. Swiss midfield enforcer Gokhan Inler was contacted by Arsene Wenger in the aftermath of Euro 2008 and has been consistently tipped for an Arsenal adventure in the future.<br /><br />West Ham United's Matthew Upson, Bolton's Gary Cahill and Fulham's Brede Hangeland are further names linked with the Gunners although their respective Premier League owners appear unwilling to do business aith Arsenal.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-79969462919655775742010-07-14T18:38:00.005+08:002010-07-14T18:42:31.726+08:00Arsenal: Barca shirt stunt a 'joke' says Cesc Fabregas<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4k19Qt6XiGfxJcHNMe04dk_MjYyFsagYzj2hr2om7PSb61IZOPBgmZMfktMngVNEvJdiCsU7gpEDcUJbboG4KxpvKfC16O2jxtw8MBvgTKWAykSSEoH3ag6iM99WOZlihSW1m_UR1oDwc/s1600/article-1294228-0A6B9E05000005DC-788_634x432.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4k19Qt6XiGfxJcHNMe04dk_MjYyFsagYzj2hr2om7PSb61IZOPBgmZMfktMngVNEvJdiCsU7gpEDcUJbboG4KxpvKfC16O2jxtw8MBvgTKWAykSSEoH3ag6iM99WOZlihSW1m_UR1oDwc/s320/article-1294228-0A6B9E05000005DC-788_634x432.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493710243731130754" /></a>Cesc Fabregas insists nothing should be read into his donning a Barcelona shirt amid Spain's World Cup celebrations.<br /><br />The Arsenal skipper has long been linked with a return to the Catalan giants, where he spent six years as a youth team player before moving to North London in 2003, and Barca have already had a 35million euro bid turned down this summer.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Barca defenders Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique - helped by Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina - fanned the flames over a possible move by forcing a Blaugrana jersey over their Spain team-mate's head as La Roja celebrated their triumphant return to Madrid on Monday night.<br /><br />But Fabregas has laughed off the matter, saying nothing more should be read into what was simply a practical joke.<br /><br />"These are things that happen at special moments, and I don't think it should be gone on about much more because it was just another anecdote of a great night, a great celebration," said the Arsenal midfielder.<br /><br />"There are times we do not even know what we do, so everything can be forgiven,.<br /><br />"Pepe took me there (to the front of the stage), the truth is that I didn't know anything like that was going to happen and so I was a bit surprised.<br /><br />"At first I thought it was a flag or something, but it's nothing.<br /><br />"You had to enjoy it and if it's a way to have fun, it's nothing."<br /><br />Fabregas grew slightly more serious when questioned further about where he will be plying his trade next season.<br /><br />"I think now the less said about the subject much the better, because these things are worse for everyone when they come to light and people talk more about the matter," added the 23-year-old.<br /><br />"Right now we have to be very calm and what will be will be."<br /><br />Fabregas has five more years on his contract with the Gunners but has made no secret of his desire to return to the Nou Camp.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-49896244808025955252010-07-11T17:49:00.001+08:002010-07-11T17:54:49.313+08:00£20M FRENCH STAR YOANN GOURCUFF IS NEW FABREGAS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIvsZUP7IhkOlbgDCxe9HgaJJKC5RuW7VoKgElrlpwXFlBDCJYsfnNSEIhgYenLAeqbfS-7T83r8rzjQv5OxudovzBAzoyJ22VYbVPT4_ZuwM8EYHWX6DNe2pOeyqdN-0lW_BYJddGZCX/s1600/yoanngourcuff_1365831.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIvsZUP7IhkOlbgDCxe9HgaJJKC5RuW7VoKgElrlpwXFlBDCJYsfnNSEIhgYenLAeqbfS-7T83r8rzjQv5OxudovzBAzoyJ22VYbVPT4_ZuwM8EYHWX6DNe2pOeyqdN-0lW_BYJddGZCX/s320/yoanngourcuff_1365831.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492584834890068562" /></a>ARSENAL will go for Bordeaux’s Yoann Gourcuff as a £20 million replacement for Cesc Fabregas if their captain finally moves to Barcelona this summer.<br /><br />And even if Fabregas remains at The Emirates for at least another season, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will continue his pursuit of Gourcuff, who is also on Manchester City’s list of targets.<br /><br /><br />Gourcuff is regarded in France as the new Zinedine Zidane but like the rest of the French squad, he had a nightmare World Cup.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br /><br />But that hasn’t altered Wenger’s view that playmaker Gourcuff, 24 today, is a special talent.<br /><br />Wenger has already made one signing from Bordeaux this summer – striker Marouane Chamakh, snapped up on a free transfer as he was out of contract.<br /><br /><br />And last week, he paid £8.5m for centre-back Laurent Koscielny, 24, from Lorient, who are managed by Christian Gourcuff – father of Wenger’s latest target.<br /><br /><br />Fabregas has made no secret of his desire to return to Spain to sign for Barcelona.<br /><br /><br />But even the Catalan giants have cash-flow problems, which could be a factor in delaying a deal.<br /><br /><br />Wenger certainly doesn’t want to lose Fabregas.<br /><br /><br />But he knows what he will try to do if he fails in his battle to keep him.<br /><br /><br />And despite big-spending City’s interest in Gourcuff, the French connection could help Wenger get his man.<br /><br /><br />Meanwhile, Spanish midfielder Fran Merida has revealed he was unhappy at Arsenal and did not think twice about signing for Atletico Madrid.<br /><br /><br />Merida, 20, who was once described by Wenger as “an absolutely amazing player”, made just six league appearances for the North Londoners.<br /><br /><br />And the midfield schemer, who came through the youth system at Barcelona, opted for a move back to Spain with Atletico, the club he had supported from a young age.<br /><br /><br />He said: “I’m an Atletico fan and I feel enormously proud to be here.<br /><br /><br />“Atletico is a big club as is Arsenal but there were some circumstances there, particularly on the sporting side, which I wasn’t happy with and I couldn’t fit in.<br /><br /><br />“I made Wenger aware of that and as soon as I knew that Atletico were interested, I didn’t think twice about switching.”</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-33560763907725302552010-06-14T23:04:00.001+08:002010-06-14T23:07:45.958+08:00Jan Vertonghen 'set for Arsenal reunion with Thomas Vermaelen'<span style="font-weight:bold;">Arsene Wenger is hoping to tie up a summer transfer move for Ajax centre-back Jan Vertonghen, as Arsenal hope to reunite him with former team-mate Thomas Vermaelen at the heart of the Gunners' defence</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictN5-IOBbdAkfltc73z06B3mUA75d6ceXAdHRRJIFAh3QQN6bXsfC5HNFYlarJRxuWLShzjuFOrShmpC1dQraZ_VaF-uSS9ToFRxg9taj36KN1nGwalA-F_fWLwLSYifS-zvOA-Upn-6C/s1600/article-1276515577378-0A0747CD000005DC-165435_636x300.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 151px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictN5-IOBbdAkfltc73z06B3mUA75d6ceXAdHRRJIFAh3QQN6bXsfC5HNFYlarJRxuWLShzjuFOrShmpC1dQraZ_VaF-uSS9ToFRxg9taj36KN1nGwalA-F_fWLwLSYifS-zvOA-Upn-6C/s320/article-1276515577378-0A0747CD000005DC-165435_636x300.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482646054433229122" /></a><br />Vermaelen has been a revelation at the back for the north Londoners since his arrival from the Dutch league last summer - with many pundits picking him as the best Premier League signing last year.<br /><br />And Wenger is hoping to enjoy similar success with the Dutchman's countryman Vertonghen, 22, who could be tempted to swap the Eredivisie for the English top-flight this summer.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />The two enjoyed a solid partnership at the Amsterdam Arena before Vermaelen's move and Wenger is preparing to make a big-money move for the 22-year-old as well as highly-rated full-back Gregory van der Wiel.<br /><br />The Dutch international, who is currently in South Africa at the World Cup with his national side, could be part of a £25million package deal to take both players to the Emirates Stadium.<br /><br />Wenger is currently weighing up his options to rebuild his back-line with veterans William Gallas, Sol Campbell, and Mikael Silvestre all due to leave on free transfers this summer. </span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-13834240319302255712010-06-14T15:02:00.006+08:002010-06-14T15:42:38.271+08:00Arsenal ready to splash 30 million to end silverware drought<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipFVQXZ1DSM-_SgoY8lFmahEphyphenhyphenF4jJXdYEPWPV8itv7SsEcqeCad97BmTD_r4-B6i9wexZRQLbFGAzkqoZ6csCfs-hnA8r8SOxnGWML4T_g5KF-TwDUPjwQqWizCOqoD6kJsde4FN_l8D/s1600/article-1286187-08730372000005DC-109_468x286.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipFVQXZ1DSM-_SgoY8lFmahEphyphenhyphenF4jJXdYEPWPV8itv7SsEcqeCad97BmTD_r4-B6i9wexZRQLbFGAzkqoZ6csCfs-hnA8r8SOxnGWML4T_g5KF-TwDUPjwQqWizCOqoD6kJsde4FN_l8D/s320/article-1286187-08730372000005DC-109_468x286.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482522394611350386" /></a><br />Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, criticised by fans after his young side failed to win a trophy since 2005, is to splash out £30million on building a squad to end the drought.<br /><br />Wenger will make the club's biggest impact on the summer transfer market for more than a decade, with Everton defender Phil Jagielka the latest target, along with Chelsea's England midfielder Joe Cole, Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and Lorient defender Laurent Koscielny.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Wenger is finally ready to make major signings after almost 10 years of being constrained by the club's move to the Emirates Stadium.<br /><br />And Everton centre-half Jagielka, controversially left out of Fabio Capello's 30-man preparation squad for the World Cup finals, is the latest player to be targeted by the Frenchman, although Everton manager David Moyes will fight to keep the 27-year-old defender at Goodison Park.<br /><br />But Arsenal now appear to be confident of adding Cole and Schwarzer to the squad after the World Cup finals, even though negotiations with Cole's representatives have yet to reach a conclusion.<br /><br />Fulham have rejected an initial inquiry for Schwarzer, but the Australian goalkeeper has only one year left on his contract at Craven Cottage and, at the age of 37, he will want to seize his last chance to play Champions League football.<br /><br />Arsenal remain in talks for centre-half Koscielny but, with William Gallas out of contract and leaving the club, they are committed to signing another experienced Premier League defender.<br /><br />Jagielka is their first choice and Wenger has been cleared to spend, with around £30m at his disposal plus any more he receives if Cesc Fabregas leaves for Barcelona.<br /><br />Arsenal have rarely been major players in the summer transfer market since committing to building the Emirates Stadium 10 years ago, a project completed in 2006 at the cost of £380m.<br /><br />But the club made £45.5m profit last year, making them one of the few in the Premier League to enjoy a substantial return.<br /><br />Their financial outlook is much brighter than Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea, with more profits expected this year as stadium debts fall.<br /><br />Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1286187/Arsene-Wenger-30m-spender-Arsenal-boss-splash-cash.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0qoCoFo5f<br /><br /><br /><br /></span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-30526344376994914902010-06-14T14:50:00.002+08:002010-06-14T14:55:05.178+08:00Arsenal Hope to Beat Manchester City to £20m Playmaker: Wenger Battles Mancini for Everton Ace Arteta<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAdhtkpykZ0U5QbCFZluXQ-HgJYIbVNjQoHiL6Hp9IfIqKPMRbJmm7VbC5TIMCz8kMv3furpK2sTuM9Evw6JKZqAxScV42bLjt3AYq2wYayO4_yl9hmJaxMOs_YUd6v1vCDwrU_52_bTY/s1600/Mikel+Arteta_633568254476250000.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAdhtkpykZ0U5QbCFZluXQ-HgJYIbVNjQoHiL6Hp9IfIqKPMRbJmm7VbC5TIMCz8kMv3furpK2sTuM9Evw6JKZqAxScV42bLjt3AYq2wYayO4_yl9hmJaxMOs_YUd6v1vCDwrU_52_bTY/s320/Mikel+Arteta_633568254476250000.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482519222235503378" /></a>Manchester City are looking to flex their spending muscles once again by offering £20million for Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta.<br /><br /> City’s interest in the 28-year-old former Barcelona trainee is in addition to their hopes of landing Aston Villa’s James Milner.<br /><br /> They will face competition for the Spanish midfielder from Arsenal, who regard him as a replacement for Cesc Fabregas, now looking certain to return to the Nou Camp.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br /> Manchester United are also monitoring Arteta, who has developed into one of the Premier League’s hottest properties. (Mail on Sunday)<br /><br />There is no doubting Mikel Arteta’s class, the Spaniard has spent the last five and half year seasons wowing the Goodison Park support and has been targeted by potential suitors for some time now, could there be any chance either Arsene Wenger or Roberto Mancini could persuade the former Rangers man to leave the Toffees?<br /><br />The 28 year old amazingly is still without a full Spain cap and may feel his chances of getting a call up would improve if he was playing Champions League football and maybe a move to the Emirates would be tempting. Is Arteta the type of player the Gunners need though? In many ways the abilities and assets the attacking midfielder offers are much the same as Cesc Fabregas, hence many reports suggesting that the north London club could turn to the Everton man if they do indeed lose their skipper to Barcelona.<br /><br />Manchester City will of course be able to offer obscene amount in wages but perhaps that won’t be enough to convince Arteta to leave, clearly he loves playing for the Toffees and he may feel he could fulfill his ambitions at the Merseyside outfit.<br /><br />David Moyes will again be hoping not to lose any of his top notch talents this summer and as always the Scot will hope to be given sufficient funds to help the club push onwards towards the top four next term.</span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-20057387460140146322010-05-03T20:37:00.001+08:002010-05-03T20:38:54.942+08:00Arsenal line up £10m bid for Palermo defender Simon Kjaer - report<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDV_paSETFgM9PymYEbNa9j_e7tFhf99Y9-owIz17IDg6unGUr1LHKMd-dSGhbIoAb5Ke_V3EwJ839Ww-_Y63-IA9tTYP9TaTEUMXab1d_XOcYMZGx4KEXpURKI9iDf3cpFYyDv4q96CpM/s1600/6545.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 210px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDV_paSETFgM9PymYEbNa9j_e7tFhf99Y9-owIz17IDg6unGUr1LHKMd-dSGhbIoAb5Ke_V3EwJ839Ww-_Y63-IA9tTYP9TaTEUMXab1d_XOcYMZGx4KEXpURKI9iDf3cpFYyDv4q96CpM/s320/6545.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467022290448709330" /></a>Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is set to attempt to reinforce his defence this summer by bidding for Palermo's Danish international centre-back Simon Kjaer, according to a report from The People.<br /><br />Wenger has targeted the Dane after identifying him as the ideal partner for Thomas Vermaelen.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />The 21-year-old has a fixed price clause in his contract of €10 million and is open to the prospect of a move to England, having almost joined Tottenham Hotspur in January.<br /><br />That deal broke down as a result of Kjaer's wage demands, with his request for a salary of £100,000 a week proving to be a major snag for Arsenal's north London neighbours.<br /><br />The report indicates that the Gunners may be willing to pay him that, but only if Kjaer commits to them before this summer's World Cup finals, when a good performance from the payer could increase competition for his signature.<br /></span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-38839360810606254442010-04-04T04:17:00.002+08:002010-04-04T04:18:59.647+08:00Hazard: I will go to Real or Arsenal<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkYMk1lLbcmaVdAMhvBSTq6luFCl-QXgHH5SFsxHvKpFThudAqqDstNU5JKVOSn0l0NGK3cgmDfkUyoCu1uQGi6jg1BOe74k622UZH4nFw5C_woiHCogFHDYn7lMPLEWbiwvLKQCV_Sv2/s1600/EdenHazard_2144756.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkYMk1lLbcmaVdAMhvBSTq6luFCl-QXgHH5SFsxHvKpFThudAqqDstNU5JKVOSn0l0NGK3cgmDfkUyoCu1uQGi6jg1BOe74k622UZH4nFw5C_woiHCogFHDYn7lMPLEWbiwvLKQCV_Sv2/s320/EdenHazard_2144756.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456008241736162050" /></a>Lille teenager Eden Hazard has listed Real Madrid and Arsenal as possible future destinations should he ever leave the Stade Metropole.<br /><br />Hazard, 19, is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in Europe after emerging as the creative force behind Lille's Ligue 1 title challenge and their run to the round of 16 in the Europa League.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Former France playmaker Zinedine Zidane said of the young Belgian on Thursday: "He can become a great footballer. He is a star of the future."<br /><br />And Hazard admits following in Zidane's footsteps and playing for Madrid is a possibility.<br /><br />He said: "Such praise makes me very happy, especially from Zidane. If one day I leave Lille, I will go to Real or Arsenal." <br /><br /></span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-548231179349721887.post-15813281636625899632010-04-04T04:13:00.002+08:002010-04-04T04:17:02.216+08:00Premier League Ratings: Arsenal 1-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3_RXA9ppYAwagT_XM0FaelgpMxqPa9FwBzCpPlYNFZB1t-2za5W9ScbHn11gVI6AJGMVP98EsoI60MWDlZhT4NMYuDXck2XD_d2S9nmVDu4nIKcvbuonxQQPrBnP4pKPHVtg8tleeYNia/s1600/rKnrjbcwY.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3_RXA9ppYAwagT_XM0FaelgpMxqPa9FwBzCpPlYNFZB1t-2za5W9ScbHn11gVI6AJGMVP98EsoI60MWDlZhT4NMYuDXck2XD_d2S9nmVDu4nIKcvbuonxQQPrBnP4pKPHVtg8tleeYNia/s320/rKnrjbcwY.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456007792219069874" /></a>Gunners leave it late to keep title hopes alive...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />ARSENAL<br /></span><br />Manuel Almunia - 7 - Had to be on his toes on a handful of occasions to thwart the Wolves attack but all in all, a comfortable afternoon for the Spaniard.<span id="fullpost"><br /><br />Bacary Sagna - 7 - Was given freedom to attack thanks to a non-existent Wolves left midfield, and the Frenchman linked up well with Theo Walcott. Managed to deliver a couple of probing crosses and overlapped to limited success.<br /><br />Sol Campbell - 6.5 - Had little to cope with, but looked calm and composed. Like the Campbell of old.<br /><br />Thomas Vermaelen - 7 - Rarely tested by a limp Wolves attack, and enjoyed a decent partnership with Sol Campbell at the heart of the Arsenal defence.<br /><br />Mickael Silvestre - 7 - Had to deal with the tricky Matt Jarvis - who was Wolves' most effective player - and was found wanting on a couple of occasions. Nearly got himself on the scoresheet but shot right at Hahnemann in the first half.<br /><br />Emmanuel Eboue - 6 - A quiet game for the Ivorian, who cut a frustrated figure at times, much like his manager on the sidelines.<br /><br />Alexandre Song - 6 - Failed to shine in a game with plenty of possession for the home side.<br /><br />Denilson - 5.5 - Most fans will have hardly noticed the little Brasilian, as the game mostly passed him by without any sort of knowing impact.<br /><br />Theo Walcott - 8 - Took it upon himself to try and win the game for the Gunners, with a series of marauding runs down the right. Often found Elokobi in resolute form, but managed to get in a handful of crosses.<br /><br />Eduardo - 7 - Looked far from fit or sharp enough to be the match-winner he has been in the past.<br /><br />Tomas Rosicky - 8 - Looked sharp and inventive as Arsenal looked for a goal and had a number of shots but found Hahnemann in fine form.<br />Substitutes<br /><br />Nicklas Bendtner - 7.5 - Put himself about but did little before nodding in Sagna's cross to win the game for the Gunners. It was an excellent header and saved Wenger's blushes.<br /><br />Samir Nasri - 7 - Was thrown on in an attacking move, and the little Frenchman looked neat and tidy, slicing Wolves open with a couple of neat flicks.<br /><br />Carlos Vela - n/a<br /><br /><br />WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS<br /><br />Marcus Hahnemann - 9 - Man of the Match by a mile, thwarting Arsenal on numerous occasions. The pick of the bunch was a left-handed claw of the ball from an Eduardo placed shot.<br /><br />Ronald Zubar - 7 - Tried to press forward but mostly found himself camped in his own half dealing with the runs of Rosicky and Eduardo.<br /><br />Jody Craddock - 7.5 - Dealt with most things Arsenal chucked his way, especially in the air, and marshalled his defence well.<br /><br />Christophe Berra - 7 - Stood strong against the tricky Arsenal forwards and gave Eduardo little space to work with. A few last ditch tackles nearly earned his side a point.<br /><br />George Elokobi - 7.5 - Given a tough task when Mick McCarthy asked him to deal with Theo Walcott's jinking runs, and the left-back was often found wanting, but managed to put in a few knowing challenges.<br /><br />Karl Henry - 6.5 - Had little impact on the game, and his afternoon was rounded off with a silly red card for a rash challenge on Roscky.<br /><br />Kevin Foley - 7 - Spent most of the match chasing the ball, but worked hard to thwart the Gunners midfielders and limit chances.<br /><br />Michael Mancienne - 8 - Snapped at Rosicky's heals and protected his defence well with a hard-working display. Used the ball well when he did find it at his feet.<br /><br />David Jones - 6 - Quiet game from Jones, who had little impact.<br /><br />Matthew Jarvis - 7 - Tried his best to tie the Arsenal defence in knots, and often had joy against the sluggish Silvestre, but found clear chances hard to come by.<br /><br />Kevin Doyle - 6.5 - A lonely figure up front, chances were very limited for Wolves' main goal threat. Was taken off midway through the second half.<br /><br />Substitutes<br /><br />David Edwards - 6 - Worked hard against the Arsenal midfield but was left behind by Rosicky and Nasri on a few occasions.<br /><br />Andy Keogh - 6.5 - Put in a good shift up front on his own, but found chances very limited.<br /><br /><br /></span>Type Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00667684854796673261noreply@blogger.com0