Arsenal Land Themselves Some Quality

Arsenal has added diminutive playmaker Santi Cazorla to their list of summer transfers. Jumping off the wage-withholding ship of Malaga, the Spanish international joins Lucas Podolski and Olivier Giroud as the newest players entrusted with showing their stuff at the Emirates. What a signing for the Gooners, seriously. He's such a tidy player, whether outside, in the middle, or supporting a striker, which most likely will be Giroud. 

It shows major intent, and in the done in the wake of Robin Van Persie's decision to not sign a new contract, saves Arsenal from looking like a feeble can't-hackit club. 

Think Arsenal will set up like this next season? Assuming RVP is gone.

Giroud

      Podolski         Cazorla         Oxlade-Chamberlain 

Arteta   Song 

   Vermaelen  Koscielny  Mertesacker    Sagna

Scezney 

Liver n'Onions: RVP Strikes Back

Before the praises where sung of Liverpool's triumphant penalty kick shoot-out win in the Carling Cup final, Liver n'  Onions wanted to see how the reds would fair at the weekend against Arsenal. I, like many took their recent form into account in making a prediction wrongfully or not. This said Arsenal was not a stale bag of bread, in terms of form- still riding high off the 5-2 trouncing of city rivals Tottenham.  Giving the Reds my much invested faith I put a ten on them to shove the Gunners back down the barrel of the gun they have be residing in for most of the year. But it's a home game, how did that slip my mind…It was the early kickoff being staged at ever growing performance cesspit known as Anfield. Much to my chagrin, that ten dollars I had riding on them did not stand a chance.  Before I continue this quick photo compilation sums up Liverpool's,

Form away from Anfield:

Form at Anfield:

Pretty much sums it up, you could say proofs in the Persie…If you may. Arsenal snapped Liverpool's unbeaten home streak with their 2-1 coup at Anfield. It may have been the first loss, but draws have been a plenty. Looking at the content of the 90 'minutes played on Saturday you would render a win was in the offing for the Reds. Arsenal looked shabby in possession and lost their midfield quarterback Mikel Arteta through a rather ambiguous injury. Top-four hopefuls Liverpool had their chances but what has separated them from a team that would make that final Champions League spot  their own is their ineptness to take chances. Prior to the game the Liverpool attacking unit had only managed 12 goals between them. Top scores Craig Bellamy and Luis Suarez are on 6 which is frankly not good enough.  The look of disgust on Dirk Kuyt's face after his poorly taken penalty was saved by the keeper Scezney said it all. With the better play falling on the side of Liverpool, the man, the myth and the monster Robin van Persie struck again, to compound woes even further. A game where Liverpool should have had 3-points in the wallet, they emerged with none. You just cannot stop the Dutch maestro, he's  so hot you could cook an omelet on him. His volley in the 3rd minute of stoppage time was superbly taken, leaving Pepe Reina with no chance, even at his front post.

I wouldn't chalk down the absence of players to Liverpool's loss, because it really was a smash and grab performance by the Gunners. But this said pundits have come out asserting that Liverpool is still way too dependent on their Captain Steven Gerrard, who did not play at the weekend. Ok i would agree to some extent, as Liverpool look lost  i the midfield when he's not playing, lacking a supplemented  vision with players like Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson. Ever since the exit of now Real Madrid's Xabi Alonso and Barcelona's Javier Mascherano  the reliance on Gerrad  has become too much, though for many years he has been capable of doing it all. To these pundits I would pull the tainted victory mask off and look at Arsenals situation. Would Arsenal have won that game if not for their captain Robin van Persie? He does it all for Arsenal, he has scored 31goals in all competitions this season, and is top goal scorer in the Premier League. He has rescued Arsenal on numerous occasions with his goals, leading by example. Would Theo Walcott have pulled off the same deft dagger in the dying embers of the game…I  don't thinks so. Liverpool's over reliance on Gerrard is a notion holds water, but so does Arsenals over reliance on Van Persie. I pose this question: If one team where to lose their star man, Arsenal- RVP and Liverpool- Gerrard, who would be worse off? 

Liverpool and Arsenal's situations are not all that dissimilar. Two teams that are, or once were part of the fabled top four, have since fallen from grace and are repairing the damages trying coping with the fallout. Both have long standing managers who have come under scrutiny. Arsene Wenger in terms of longevity as manager, and Kenny Dalglish with his association to Liverpool, as player and manager. Both struggle to find a cohesive squad of players. Arsenals reluctancy to buy opting to rely on youth, and Liverpool's over-spending on un-proven talent. Where they finish in the league this year is really anyones guess, and both will certainly have to fight to get into the top 4.

A little nibblet to munch on before Liverpool faces Sunderland at the weekend.

Stay Oniony my friends

Don't to forget to check out more @www.worldfootballdaily.com

The Milanese Massacre: Arsenal 0-4 AC Milan CL

Well that's all folks- in terms of Arsenals' CL European adventure as their first leg tie against AC Milan ended  4-0 in favor of the Italians. Arsenal has long been known as the kids of Arsenal, with manager Arsene Wenger having a knack for seeking out young talent from around Europe. The team that played yesterday were not kids, but they sure played like them. Against the likes of Ibrahimovic, Kevin Prince-Boateng and Thiago Silva, Arsenal looked toothless. Good possession once again led to nothing,  Laurent Koscielny came off with an injury in the first half, Van Persie managed 1 or 2 shots max, Tomas Rosicky once again rocketed every shot into row Z, and keeper Szechney couldn't clear his lines to save his life.

Mark van Bommel in the center of midfield for Milan seemed to have time to take a smoke break in the and Abbiati was tested in goal, not by shots but by his ability to stay awake. Ex-Tottenham player Kevin Prince-Boateng opened the scoring with a one time, cross body volley that  went in off the under side of the bar. Robinho notched two goals, one created by a slip from Vermaelen and the other was crafted from a cut back after Ibrahimovic's daring run to the by-line.  Ibrahimovic added to the score sheet with a penalty won by a deft cross body drag in the box.

Arsenal looked as bad as I have seen them, and the look of despair on Wenger's face as he mashed his hands deeper into his coat pockets was almost comical as it's becoming a regular occurrence due to Arsenals form. I swear I'am going to make a montage of his fits from the sideline, and watch it when I'am having a bad day.

Arsenal is struggling in the league, and now that they're are certainly out of the Champions League, one must look beyond bringing Thierry Henry back to salvage the clubs reputation.

CL Action: Arsenal 1-0 Marseille

Arsenal: Ramsey (90'+)

Arsenal vs. Marseille was far from a classic, but substitute Aaron Ramsey added heart pounding excitement to Gooners around the world when he netted following Gervinho's mis-control from a Djourou cross.

Once again one nil to Arsenal, a welcomed score line to Arsenal fans at the moment....I would hope? This was Arsenal's first clean sheet away from home in the Champions League for three and a half years. Aaron Ramsey's goal perches the N. London club top of their group.

For the rest of the CL results.

Liver n'Onions: does derby day

In a footballing bender of a weekend I witnessed a total of 540 minutes, plus extra time of nerve gripping action,  included three notable derby's, the high profile match's of PSG v. Lyon, and AC Milan vs. Juventus. Thrilling as those specified were, I cannot deny that the derby's on display took the center stage, non-more exciting than the prospect of the Merseyside derby. Staying up for a 1:30 am kick off on Friday mounts to nothing on the list of things I would do to watch this game. 

Assuming my usual chair, pencil behind the ear and  coffee in hand, I grited my teeth in suspense. However when the clock struck quarter to four, howI felt was akin to the excitement felt  before Christmas, only to be let down by the gifts on display. The derby, in comparison to ones previously, lacked impotence and controversy. Watching the North London Derby on the following day only compounded my disappointment, making me question how I feel about the modern derby in general. With the likes of Gervinho, Coquelin, and  Mertesacker starting in their first N. London derby for Arsenal, I ask the question are Derby matches a young man's game, or for the old geezers? A derby match is built off of a rivalry, usually containing frenetic pace, take-no-prisoner tackles and a general distain for the opposition. With an injection of young players, or new signings, the rivalry is lessened for the players are only feeling the rivalry tension, based off what they have been told or watched themselves. This is why you see a lot of young players getting sent off because they know what it means to win the game, yet they don't know how to approach it. Derby games are built off the history of the clubs', and the passion is heightened by the fans. Current football players aren't usually permanent enough at a club to really feel the passion of the Derby game willing to kiss any badge as long as the pay is good,so a derby games is just an excuse to slag off your fellow professionals and get stuck in, harder than usual. The billing of the Merseyside Derby, or the North London Derby imply a certain amount of intensity, that some of  the derby -virgin players can quite cope with. Either Charlie Adam had a sub-par game, or he had built up the importance of the game, and how doing well in it would impress his manager, but that said he seemed to choke.  The elder state-men have played in the atmosphere for years and usually know how to approach it. This is why I was surprised not to see Gerrard come on from the start, niggaling injury aside. A player of his stature knows the playing field, what's required, treating it just like any other game. This is something you might expect from a player new to the intense atmosphere, yet often the adverse is seen.  With the older players you feel the history materializing on the pitch, which is not felt with a bucket of new faces playing in their first derby. So I ask this question, do you think that derby games are more entertaining with young, unfamiliar players looking to prove themselves, or with the experienced players who know the derby waters?  

I will admit that I am still uneasy over the current Reds, as their performance leaves me feeling unconvinced on the the new project that King Kenny has dished up. The 216th version of this city splitting clash didn't do much to change my stance, only getting into the game once the sending off of Jack Rodwell. A dismissal which was if I may a lucky one, catalyzed by a nothing tackle and a sprawling flop from Suarez. Ref Martin Atkinson got it horribly wrong, only succeeding in giving Liverpool a chance back into a game that they looked second best in up until that point. From the start Everton looked the more cohesive unit with both Sylvian Distin and Tim Cahill testing Reina in the Liverpool goal, as the Red's midfield of Adam and Lucas struggled to supply Carroll and Suarez up top. The dismissal killed Everton's expansive play forcing Cahill to slot into the wide left position leaving Louis Saha to forage for himself as the lone advanced player. Even with reduced numbers Everton still carved out a handful of chances, but it was Liverpool who came up the 2-0 winners.  Dirk Kuyt endeared himself slightly to the Everton faithful, as his grass cutting penalty kick was saved by Howard, following Jagielka's tackle on Suarez in the box- deemed an illegal one by Atkinson. One of the shining lights in the match that uncharacteristically lacked some atmosphere was Andy Carroll's first goal of the 2011-12 season, latching onto the end of Craig Bellamy's Cross. With Suarez sealing the win on a fortunate rebound clearance from Distin, Liverpool take the spoils of Derby Glory, in a scrappy win, nothing more. As long as three points are there to be taken, I will take them and run, but a comfortably controlled win is what I desire.

Derby rating: 6.5

The Sunday proceeding saw a comparably mammoth fixture with the North London Derby illuminating the eyes of London. Arsenal, though starting the season a bit shaky, I gather feel they have the edge over their closest rivals Tottenham. This fallacy was plain to see, with the power-shift between the two clubs apparent. The match announcer made the interesting point of if you where to making a best XI out of the starting lineups of the two teams, what Arsenal players would make it? Bacary Sagna and Robin Van Persie are shoo-ins, but besides them who else? Like the Merseyside derby this match lacked some atmosphere as I didn't feel much passion, also upset with the fact that the usually controversial Adebayor didn't get in to it with any of his former Arsenal teammates or fans. Both teams' defensive frailties emerged, creating a multitude of chances for each side, both with eight a piece come the whistle for the half. Tottenham were the only team to make the flurry of chances count, as Raphael Van der Vaart made sure to put on his boots with " This Machine Kills Arsenal Dreams," written on the side, as he took down a beautiful cross on the chest and in brilliant style hit it off the bounce past Szczesny into the back corner. Aaron Ramsey was having a shocker in midfield until he leveled terms in the second, adding some spice to the simmering cauldron of White Heart Lane. As the game wound to its climax Gareth Bale looked like Seabiscuit on speed, galloping down the wing looking capable of making the difference, but the winner came from the most  unlikely of specimens in right back Kyle Walker. Having studied Danny Rose's thunderous strike from a couple of years ago, he had a look, put his foot through it, and arrowed it past outstretched arms of the Arsenal keeper like a warm knife through butter. Certainly a good way to open your account for a club, in which after the match he told Sky Sports, “I’ve just picked up the ball and hit it… Why not have a go?’' 

Derby rating: 7

If Kyle walker learned to harness the power of Thors Hammer in his boot, Andy Johnson had been waxing his board, looking like the silver surfer with his shiny bald head, and his slick runs past QPR's defense. One of the West London Derby's took action as Fulham played newly promoted Queens Park Rangers, and although spending wisely in the summer showed their scars, falling subject to a 6-0 thrashing.  Fulham looked unstoppable, with Johnson notching a hat trick and Dempsey, Murphy ad Zamora grabbing the rest. QPR made Fulham look like a world superpower, complacent in defense and an attack of Jay Bothroyd, who made nil impact. With Fulham being that team you just can't hate, (QPR fans excluded), I was delighted to see them grab their first win of the season and to do it in such emphatic style made for a thrilling spectacle. I don't expect to see many similar  shorelines at  the cottage, but it was a delightful capper to a slightly disappointing Derby weekend in the English Premier League.

Derby rating: 8.5

 Check out more @ www.worldfootballdaily.com

EPL review weekend of Aug 26th

One word would do the trick in summing up this weekends football action in the Barclays Premier League, WOW! This weekend fans saw a plethora of goals-wether for, or against your team- making it one of the most exciting weekends in recent remembrance. It was a glorious weekend for the Manchester clubs, with City un-doing Tottenham 5-1, with 4 goals from on-song Edin Dzeko. United had their way with a anemic Arsenal 8-2, to which a glance at Wenger's face is all you have to see to some up the strife going at Arsenal. It was surely a weekend that N. London will  be quick to forget, and if the Riots of weeks prior was caused by this I would understand.  Tottenham and Arsenal are both clubs stumbling to find their feet early in the 2011-12 season, due somewhat I reckon to the lack of signings and the distraction of big players leaving their respected clubs. The long transfer saga of Modric to Chelsea may or may not be finalized by the end of the window come Wednesday, and If I was Harry I would hope it is. It's an added distraction that does nothing but hurts to morale of the player, and the players around him. Modric started but was removed shortly into the second half. His final swan song….maybe? Clearly looking as he didn't want to play seen in the effort he put forth.  Need I speak further on the problems at Arsenal...I will in relation to this game. Do to lack of players available to Wenger, the young back line of Koscielny, Djorou, Jenkinson and Traore did not cut it against the stampede of a frontline played by United. Caught buy playing a high line too often, Welbeck and Nani were free to tear them to shreds, Not to mention a Hat-trick from Rooney-including two from set pieces'. Rosicky failed to impress in a attacking sense, and his link play was dismal. RVP was the only player who looked up for it, even though missing a penalty with  a weak effort, giving  United's keeper, De Gea, the sense he was all that, and a bag of potato chips. Wenger's lack of tactical shuffling at the break-all be it limited options- saw this pillaging continue to the bitter end, to where if the game was still playing, Man U would still be burying their chances.

Along with the free scoring Manchester v. London game's, Everton's game against Blackburn, and Chelsea v. Norwich tickled this fans interests, adding to the excitement of the weekend. An unflattering score of Everton 1 - Blackburn 0, speaks nothing of the excitement, and heartbreak felt by the clubs. Blackburn looked on top for most of the match, but it was a case of the proverbial cliche of "not" taking your chances that saw Blackburn undone, as they missed two penalties. Both times the players, stepped up to take the spot kick, a miss looked in the offing. Between these, and Rvp's failure from the spot has made it 7 missed from a possible 10 penalties given this year. Outstanding! Fittingly Blackburn felt were kicked in the teeth as Fellaini was challenged unfairly in the box seeing Everton being awarded with a penalty  in the final minutes. Manager Steve Kean was disgusted as he, and Blackburn fans know that the silky Spaniard, Mikel Arteta doesn't miss from there. 

Chelsea's battle with Norwich should be all but a formality  for the West London club, but proved to be more difficult than expected. Debut's were given to new boy's Juan Mata, and Romelu Lukaku off the bench and the Spaniard brought a new dimension to the Blues attack instantly. Almost purchasing an assist with his first touch through serving a delicious cross into the box's harks back to the days of Robben and Duff's wing-play for Chelsea. Mata's goal was icing on the cake as Malouda hat already put them ahead after Grant Holt had equalized for the Canaries.

An easy win over Bolton is what Liverpool needed. Slightly lucky against Arsenal last week, this week required a convincing win over an Epl mainstay like Bolton. Jordan Henderson opened his Liverpool account with one of the many, many, goals of the weekend with a left foot curler into the top corner. The second came from a corner met by the shaved head of substitute Martin Skrtel, beating Zat Knight to the punch. Zat Knight was once again involved as Charlie Adam hit a grass cutter form out side the box, through the big center backs legs to give the Red's 3 goals, and 3 points.

Players of the week:

Not in order...

1.) Samir Nasri: Had the best of debut games in the game vs. Tottenham, cementing in nicely to the fluid ( contradictory) forward line of City. With the likes of Silva, Aguero and Dzeko all rotating and mixing positions it was practically a swingers party. Coming up with assists and playing instrumental in the build up for the first two Dzeko goals, the frenchman looks the final cog in City's goal machine.

2.) Juan Mata: another debutant who, against the still stale Chelsea squad, looked like a mt. goat on speed. Popping up left and right, giving width to attack and even scoring a goal to seal the win. Thought be it a substitute appearance...AVB will surely have him from the start come their game against Sunderland, Sept 10th.

3.) Wayne Rooney: Had a hat trick in their drubbing of Arsenal, two from free kicks, and one from a penalty.  His passing, goals, and work rate proved too much for Arsenal to cope with.

4.) Ashley Young: Looks the part, once again proving Sir Alex's prowess in signing fantastic players ( for the most part). His skill on the ground, crosses, and shots! Scoring two fantastic curlers past Scezney one as good as the next. He had one of the games of the weekend, and if not for Dzeko, he would be my player of the weekend. 

5.) Edin Dzeko: Now to the cream of the crop. 4 goals for the red hot Bosnian, all with variation. From simple tap-ins, to picking his spot from outside the box and wrapping his foot around it. It was just one of those games he couldn't have gone wrong in. Justifying his spot over Carlos Tevez, a pick of mine for flop of the season, Dzeko looks like proving me dead wrong with 6 goals out of 3 games! Magnificent.

                                

Nasri signs for City and it's OFFICIAL. Sorry Arsenal...

A move that has been coming like the floods of the apocalypse for Arsenal, waters blue like the shirts of the aggressors. Truth is Arsenal has no one to blame but them selves. Failing to strengthen in the closing transfer window,  intent seems at an all time low. Much shit has been hurled at the N. London club of late and harsh it may be, but it's somewhat deserved. The departure of Fabregas, slow opening to the Premier league season, and most of all the lack of urgency in signing new players, much needed at the Arsenal. 


In Nasri's defense, the allure of a rich club  on the rise is about as attractive as coke is to Adrian Mutu, how could he say no? He has stated the move is fueled by the desire to win trophies, and if the case leaving the Arsenal is the right move. Losing the in the Carling Cup final to Birmingham last year might have been the final straw for the silky frenchman, but what ever it was he's free and clear now. 


It pains me slightly to see, not for Arsenal, but for Nasri. It can go two ways in my mind. The winning mentality seeming to be growing at City can inspire Nasri, pushing him on to new heights and earning the name of the "new Zidane." This may result, or he will be over shadowed by the likes of Silva, Yaya, and  El Kun Aguero. I was so excited to see him move the the EPl from Marseille, and he couldn't have landed at a better club that Arsenal. He slots right in, with his style, passing and pace. Having to play around Fabregas, the departure of the Spaniard should have been Nasri's clue to step-up, take the reign's and run that club, but alas he has elected to exit stage left. 

Liver N'Onions week of 8/22

Your Liver:

On paper its looks a good result for Liverpool,  2-0 win against Arsenal, though be it a struggling Arsenal. If you are like me -devoted- staying up for kickoff at 1pm hawaiian pacific time, or 4am on the west coast, you would know it was anything but. Two dodgy goals saved Liverpool fans from another speed bump in their seasons takeoff, but the brace exists as only as a blanket, covering their blemishes. 

A wins, a win, and it was this that saved Liverpool from further scrutiny. The started as an exciting spectacle with Wenger playing a youthful midfield, more by restriction than choice. Frimpong added some youthful steel to the midfield in which youth and the decisions that come with it earned him a sight at red. Suarez sat from the beginning with Kenny giving him the most rest possible after a long summer of football. When brought on the  major realization for me and hopefully the world over, of how absolutely key Luis Suarez, is to this team was plain to see. When introduced midway into the second half, the light bulbs were a-flashing over the heads of the reds, acting as the catalyst to all things good for the merseyside club. Before this the midfield of Henderson, and Adam  looked solid against the soft Arsenal center, but still lacked that creative spark. Suarez's movement is second to none, and with the introduction Meireles from the bench spoke of his importance to the team as well. He must start for me! He had a fantastic  last season, and his importance was cemented at the Emirates. In my mind it's a case of Dalgleish playing favorites. He brought in these new English boys and he wants to play them. There're are two classy players sitting on the bench, with limited shots in proving they belong in the team from the start. I have spoke of Meireles and you know how I feel on that subject. The second is Alberto Aquilani. Rumors this week preach interest from AC Milan, which might actually be a go vs. the  roller coaster  summer of transfer links associated with the Italian.  The player who at Liverpool, failed to impress, though chances were limited due to injury and lack of form, rendering him with the price tag, a flop. I say Give him a shot! This summer he looked hungry,wether prove himself at Liverpool or to put himself in the shop window is unclear but the taste for games is there.

Your Onions:

More Rumors this week coming from Italy is the re-emerging like between Dirk Kuyt and Inter Milan.  The blue collar Dutchman works tirelessly for Liverpool and his departure would not be a welcomed one. As an elder statesman up-top, his experience is key and is a figure to look up to from the youthful Carroll and Henderson.  Starting roles may be scarce, but this aging utility man will give 358% what ever position he is put in.

Other rumors come in the shape of EPL new-boys QPR, pursing a loan move for shabby shabby Joe Cole. Cole has strait up disappointed at Liverpool!  Out of form, shape, mindset…you name it. Has had limited playing time as well, but when given a shot to do anything good he  has absolutely failed. Get him out, and playing football. A Loan move would be the best option as  he racks up some  regular time, and manages to increase his stock, Liverpool can sell him for a higher price.  At a team like QPR that frankly will need all the help they can get, Joe can play some foot and come seasons end  Dalgleish can asses wether he's worth keeping.

After the Merciless Meireles  set up Suarez for the second goal, cameras caught the radical misfit flipping Lucas the bird, then poppin a grin….next time it will be the kiss from the Godfather, " I know it was you, and It warms my heart!" Was it a joke? Who cares? There needs to be some bite. 

It's a Mata of intent.

Chelsea has confirmed on their website this morning that Valencia playmaker and Spanish International Juan Mata, has signed for a fee of 23 million pounds, pending only a medical. The West London club has strait up jacked this deal from Arsenal, as fellow London club looked to replace their once fabulous Fabregas. This signing marks the biggest player signing for Chelsea this summer as transfers have been quite till this week that has seen Lukaku and Mata join the club. In Chelsea's opening fixtures, the team has 
looked sluggish and lacking grease in the gears, having to come back to win against Stoke, and West Brom. An injection of pace and creativity to the ageing midfield is a must, and Mata is just the man to do it. 


Mata's signing shows intent from Chelsea, and intent from Mata. Joining Chelsea harnesses the possibility of winning the league and challenging for European glory. Joining Arsenal is joining a team in transition, struggling to get off the mark in the new season. Uncertainty is abundant, marquee players are leaving, new signings are scarce to non-existance and the possibility of missing out on Champions League football. Wether it came down to money, promise of success, or both Mata is the latest example of Arsenal missing out.

Last week's underperforms face off tomorrow.

Out of the opening fixtures to the EPL the two most disappointing performers Arsenal and Liverpool will  dook it out for their first win of the 2011-12 season this Saturday. The highest profile match so-far  with teams in the once fabled top four, should be an exciting spectacle, with both teams going for the throat to grab a win. Arsenal started their season with a flat performance against Newcastle, where a flash point between Gervinho and Joey Barton was the high point in the 0-0 draw. A game played without recently departed captain Fabregas, and next to leave Nasri, Arsenal struggled to impose themselves and secure a win. 

With all the hype of the coming season for Liverpool, signings and all, flattered to deceive in their opening match v. Sunderland, with a second half capitulation. Dalgleish spent a lot on young English talent this summer to justify this, he needs a win. In the first half Liverpool sprung from the gates like a bat out of hell,  but this frenetic energy did not last done by a fantastic strike by Seb Larsson. For Dalgliesh's boys to get off the mark, they need to win silencing, the doubters and installing confidence. 


This need to win should create a fantastic atmosphere, and looking at last year's fixture can re-affirm that. Last year's opener between these clubs ended1-1 with Joe Cole getting sent off on his Liverpool debut. An uncharacteristic howler from Pepe Reina in the final minute, provided service for Chamakh to bury it canceling out an David N'gog strike earlier in the match. This match may serve as the tonic to the hoodoo currently troubling  Joe Cole, assuming he plays. Nasri will not play as he inches closer to his move to City, so the Middie's of Ramsey, Ro-shitsky, and Song must have a good game against the rising tide that is Liverpool's midfield.


Prediction:
Arsenal will still struggle to start, as they lose 2-1. Suarez and Carroll will both score for the Liverpool, and RVP for the Arsenal. 


T.V. 
ESPN 2 
7:45am ET

Rat's off a sinking ship. "aka" The Arsenal

Now with Cesc out, and Nasri seemingly on his way, Wenger turns to Lille once again targeting Eden Hazard to replace the fleeing talent. The talented Belgium would be a valued asset at many clubs, showing fantastic skill in the french league last years, guiding Lille to a League 1 title. Although the rumors are flying like the shit towards the fan, after already signing Gervinho from Lille, the loss of Hazard, would be hugely detrimental to the french side, rendering the deal a no-go. Before Wenger gets a Hazard- primarily a winger- forward, when they have the likes of Arshavin and Walcott, a silky footed playmaker is who they should be after. It's worrisome times for the Arsenal, with the likes of City and Liverpool strengthening. Their is the question... with Fabregas out, will Nasri step up and take his place, or will he jump ship as well? It's either going to be rat's off a sinking ship, or a separation for the wheat from the chaff. Heavily linked with a transfer to City looming, the Gooners should be crossing their finger's that the Frenchy stays. 

When Joey Barton exposed the corruption at club Newcastle, he seemed certain to leave but after that skirmish between the maligned midfielder and Gervinho, I believe Joe has ruined his chances.  If I where Arsenal I would make an offer prying Alberto Aquilani from Liverpool. Seems to be excess, and seemingly wants to go. He has yet to prove his worth in England but he is a tidy playmaker that Arsenal would do well to sign. If they could afford his wages- which should not be a problem- a swoop would be a economical one, clearing the Italian off Liverpool's books.

Liverpool are trying to pip Arsenal for Birmingham's Scott Dann

In Liverpool's quest to strengthen their defense, recent sights have been set on Birmingham's defender Scott Dann. With Birmingham out of the Premier League, tempting Dann, one of their  top performers during their stent In the Premier League,  would probably be easy.  Besides the convenience, I don't see the allure. Scott Dann is a player, akin to Michael Turner, or even Charlie Adam- all of which were on Liverpool's radar at some point- who shined in a a team, performing well above expectations. When removed from that system, the hunger felt by player's playing for a team struggling for survival, diminishes astronomically. Managers up the table see an opportunity to sign a player on the cheap, from a relegated team, alla Hull City, Blackpool and of course Birmingham. Cheap they may be, but it's a price to pay for uncertainty.  Kenny Dalgleish added Blackpool's diamond in the ruff  Charlie Adam to Liverpool's ranks this summer. A player who looked good in pre- season, but the jury is still out on how he will perform at a bigger club.  The signing of Scott Dann would paint an all too familiar picture, as Dalgleish's push for English talent continues. He may be English, he may have performed for a struggling Birmingham side, but what the Red's need is a proven center-back, who has done it at the highest level.

With news of German International Per Mertesacker pondering his future at current side Werder Bremen, the German club would be mad not to cash in on him now before the end of his contract. Be it that he is available, that's who I would like to see at Anfield, a proven central defender vs. another question mark. It's not all doom and gloom defensively for the Merseyside club, and it's certainly rosier than Arsenal's situation. Jamie Carragher still has some spring in his 33-year old step, but he will need replacing at some point. Daniel Agger- a player I love- has been troubled with injury for much of season's past, so pinning your hope on him for regular service would be un-wise. Dann is not the answer, he's a finger in the dam.  

Gotta Go Joe!

There is never enough controversy surrounding Joey Barton, as he seems to be attracted to it like a moth to a flame. We see him once again in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, this time  choosing a social media outlet vs. moves he learned from an old Chuck Norris film. In a growing trend of player getting into trouble via Twitter, Barton has joined in with teammate Jose Enrique's air of the grievances about Newcastle. Barton has followed suit, waxing poetic about the club's lack of ambition, and dressing room unrest, after their pre-season defeat to Leeds. In result Barton has been put up for a free transfer, as manger Alan Pardew clearly wants the bad blood bled out! 


With Barton a free pick up, behavior aside, will be on many EPL club's radar. With all his antics the midfielder has somewhat grown up over the years, but maintains that bite in his play. In this light they're are only two clubs I would like to see Barton playing for next year. One being the Arsenal, and two Manchester United. With Arsenal in need of some Barton's bite in midfield, he would be a perfect candidate in terms of his play. He's Feisty, takes no prisoners, decent distributor, but...what would Wenger make of his antics, as history shows there will be. Arsenal is such a P.C. club, that Barton might be seen as that bad child that burns ant's with a magnifying glass, and cast-out. On the flip side he's free so Wenger wouldn't have to spend any money on a transfer fee, exempting him from much criticism if the  experiment goes belly-up. Barton would be a great pick-up, or the worst decision...just have to wait and see.

With the recent departure of Paul Scholes, Barton could be a fitting replacement for the now retired midfield dynamo. What Man U needs is a player of Barton's Ilic, to sit behind the attack and mop-up in midfield Al la  Owen Hargreaves. If they cannot secure Danielle De Rossi, which they won't, then Barton is  a must! If any manager can iron out Barton it's Sir Alex Ferguson, and given the responsibility of a starting berth at Man U, Barton would be forced to clean up his act and be responsible. 

2011-12 Arsenal Home Jersey+Launch Video

I like how Alex Song says " I think Arsenal are the best club in the world."hmmmm...maybe you'll get a bonus out of that one. Maybe using elements from crest's of the past will help them re-kindle that winning mentality they had once??? Looks nice tho.

Nah Nah Nasri

          Samir Nasri seems set to join Manchester City for ₤ 19 million and all I can say is Nasri DON'T DO IT!  Nasri joins the list of Arsenal players that have become disillusioned with the going-ons at Arsenal. He has stated that he wants to win trophies, which at the north london club, seems far from happening any time soon. Nasri has linked with a move to both Manchester clubs, United looking for a replacement for Paul Scholes due to his recent retirement. This deal with United looks to be all but over, with United chasing Wesley Sneijder from Inter Milan, City has taken up the reigns in securing the silky french midfielder. As a huge fan of Nasri I think that going to City would be a poor decision in the advancement of his career.  City beat Arsenal last season in securing 3rd place, forcing arsenal to go through a Champions League play-off. Nasri views Arsenal to be on a downward slide, with some of their talent leaving and their captain Fabregas being constantly linked with a move to Barcelona. A move to City would give him Champions league football, money, and a chance to play on a title contending team. City, with the talent they have will no doubt be strong contenders for the title, and Nasri has stated " he want's to win trophies." But with the midfield City has I ask,  will Nasri start? I think he works best playing in the center of midfield, distributing  passes and making sly runs into the box. Coach Mancini likes  to play a  4-2-31 formation with, Yaya Toure  looking really good playing in the middle of that 3; the position Nasri should occupy. If Mancini pushes Toure  back into that holding 2, Nasri would be in his natural habitat and could do well. He was used out on the wing sometimes for Arsenal, but City in that formation are way to narrow,  with Nasri wanting to come inside every chance he gets, they would be as straight as Sean Connery. If City unloads some chaff: James Milner, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Patrick Viera, Nasri could one of the first on the team sheet.  If Nasri could get his first choice position week-in week-out  at City It might be worth a shot, but the smartest decision would be to stay at Arsenal.

With the back- in- forth transfer saga of Fabregas to Barca, will end without a doubt in the Spanish international returning home. You cannot keep a player that doesn't want to play for your team. With Fabregas destined to  go, Nasri would be the focal point for Arsenal. Someone to build the team around. Arsenal may not be building to the extent that most Gunner's fans want, but with the signing of Gervinho, and the money they could get for Fabregas, they are certainly making some strides forward. Nasri is a fantastic footballer,he's young, pacey and is constantly compared to Zidane, which is whatever… but he can really lead a team with his play. With Nasri in the center, Wilshere behind him, Walcott on the right, Gervinho on the left, RVP and Chamakh up-top makes for a line-up thats hard to scoff at.  Nasri without a doubt would be captain by January if he stays at Arsenal, where at City he's another cog in the wheel, where at Arsenal, he is the Wheel.