For a man renowned for his love of details, it makes me chuckle a bit to think of Arsene Wenger leaving his Blackberry in London. It’s something you or I might do…in a fit of rush to get to the airport, something’s always going to be forgotten. But for Arsene Wenger, a man who lives, eats, sleeps and breathes statistics and details…well, it just makes Le Boss seem a little more like the rest of us, no? In any event, the Great Blackberry Debacle seems to have been sorted and it appears we’re on the verge of adding Laurent Koscielny to the squad from Lorient. I won’t have too much comment on the addition, nor will Andy, until it’s officially announced on the dot.com. But in reviewing a few things about our new man, he certainly put up some stellar statistics last season and if the Lorient supporters’ reactions to his performances are any indication, well, we might just be getting another Vermaelen along the back four. I won’t complain at all if that’s how he works out.
Right. Back to the 2010 World Cup. Match Day 18 brought Robin van Persie and Netherlands to the pitch against Slovakia. On paper, this really shouldn’t have been much of a match. Arjen Robben got the start for the Oranje, and all the attacking pieces were in place for a comfortable Dutch victory. But this was not a great possession match for Netherlands. Slovakia controlled quite a bit of the time, albeit a lot of midfield possession and few actual attempts on goal, but the Dutch had difficulties pushing on with sustained pressure (especially in the first half). I have definite concerns about Netherlands going forward. As I mentioned briefly from their last match, they need to tighten up at the back four, and they have some formation problems up front. Yes, all the pieces are there, but I’m not sure all the pieces are in the right place or are working together properly. There are times when the Dutch look nervous or annoyed with each other on the pitch. The attack breaks down too easily or the finishing isn’t there and the defense wobbles in a way that a more proficient squad than Slovakia would make the Dutch pay dearly. A squad like…Brazil, whom the Dutch face in the quarterfinals. Back to this match though, and it was Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder netting goals for Netherlands on 18 and 84 minutes, respectively. Slovakia’s Robert Vittek became their all-time leading scorer with a 90+4 minute penalty kick.
Netherlands
Frustrating Day Ends With Second Half Sub
Robin’s getting frustrated. You can see it on the pitch, and you could see it as he protested to gaffer Bert van Marwijk as he was subbed off for Klaas Jan Huntelaar on 80 minutes. As usual, Robin got the start up top flanked by Kuyt and Robben, with Sneijder at ACM. One positive thing I see is how easily Robin switches back and forth between the central role and wide right. That can only be a good thing for the upcoming Arsenal season as I expect that will happen as a regular tactic in our attack with either Chamakh or Bendtner in the flanking position. van Persie’s first real chance on goal came on 7 minutes, when Kuyt lofted in a cross from the left third to RVP in the box. It was a good chance at a header, but the pass was tipped by a Slovakian defender just as it came to van Persie and went past the touch line for a corner. A few minutes later, controlling and turning superbly just outside the box, Robin dribbled into the left area and fed Sneijder nicely for a shot, but the keeper was up to the task and made the save. Netherlands continued to mount rather mediocre pressure on the Slovakian defense, but there was no joy to be found for the Arsenal striker. Just before halftime, Robin got off a chocolate-legged attempt on goal, but like much of the Dutch attack it was pretty feeble. On 58 minutes van Persie took a nice free kick from about 30 yards out on the right that tested the keeper, but again, no joy for our man. With relatively little to show for his 80 minutes, Robin was subbed for Huntelaar. One gets the feeling that, while van Persie is the central striker, he’s not the central focus of the attack and I think this is starting to grate on Robin a bit.
From arsenalfcblog.com
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Campbell in Celtic talks
Arsenal and former England international So Campbell edges closer to signing for Hoops.
Sol to play for: Arsenal star weighs up future with visit to Glasgow
Neil Lennon’s first signing of the summer could be Sol Campbell after the Arsenal star jetted into Glasgow for talks today.
The 35 year- old will spend the day being shown around Parkhead and Celtic’s Lennoxtown training facility.
New Hoops boss Neil Lennon has made the capture of the veteran defender one of his top priorities.
And if Campbell likes what he sees and hears today then the big stopper could put pen to paper on a two –year deal reportedly worth £35,000 a week.
Campbell who has been offered a one-year extension to stay at Arsenal played 73 times for England and has made almost 500 appearances for Tottenham, Arsenal and Portsmouth.
The 35 year-old told reporters earlier this month he was impressed with Neil Lennon’s plans to bring the glory days back to Celtic, and would be coming to Glasgow to hear more. He also stated that success not money would the driving force behind his decision.
He told reporters “I think Celtic want to get back to where they should be. It’s a massive club. Neil has told me that the main man at the club is also determined for success again.
“The ambition is to win the championship again and make proper in-roads in Europe. For me that’s exciting.”
Now Campbell who spent five years with Arsenal before moving to Portsmouth, then returning for a second spell with the Gunners in January on a short-term deal could be about to ask Lennon to deal him in as the rookie boss sets about achieving that ambition.
Last month Spurs boss Harry Rednapp who won the FA Cup with Portsmouth with Campbell at the heart of his defence said Celtic “would walk” the SPL if the veteran signed for the Parkhead club.
If Campbell signs for Celtic he will compete with recalled skipper Stephen McManus, Glenn Loovens, Jos Hooiveld, Thomas Rogne and Irishman Darren O’Dea for a starting place.
From arsenalfcweb.co.uk
Sol to play for: Arsenal star weighs up future with visit to Glasgow
Neil Lennon’s first signing of the summer could be Sol Campbell after the Arsenal star jetted into Glasgow for talks today.
The 35 year- old will spend the day being shown around Parkhead and Celtic’s Lennoxtown training facility.
New Hoops boss Neil Lennon has made the capture of the veteran defender one of his top priorities.
And if Campbell likes what he sees and hears today then the big stopper could put pen to paper on a two –year deal reportedly worth £35,000 a week.
Campbell who has been offered a one-year extension to stay at Arsenal played 73 times for England and has made almost 500 appearances for Tottenham, Arsenal and Portsmouth.
The 35 year-old told reporters earlier this month he was impressed with Neil Lennon’s plans to bring the glory days back to Celtic, and would be coming to Glasgow to hear more. He also stated that success not money would the driving force behind his decision.
He told reporters “I think Celtic want to get back to where they should be. It’s a massive club. Neil has told me that the main man at the club is also determined for success again.
“The ambition is to win the championship again and make proper in-roads in Europe. For me that’s exciting.”
Now Campbell who spent five years with Arsenal before moving to Portsmouth, then returning for a second spell with the Gunners in January on a short-term deal could be about to ask Lennon to deal him in as the rookie boss sets about achieving that ambition.
Last month Spurs boss Harry Rednapp who won the FA Cup with Portsmouth with Campbell at the heart of his defence said Celtic “would walk” the SPL if the veteran signed for the Parkhead club.
If Campbell signs for Celtic he will compete with recalled skipper Stephen McManus, Glenn Loovens, Jos Hooiveld, Thomas Rogne and Irishman Darren O’Dea for a starting place.
From arsenalfcweb.co.uk
Van Persie Not scoring is eating away at me
The Holland and Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie lost his cool when the Dutch coach Bert Van Marwijk substituted him 10 minutes from the end of yesterdays match against Slovakia.
Holland were 2-1 when Van Persie was taken off, and the youngster immediately strode up to the manager and publicly remonstrated with him, but he admitted today that it was just through personal frustration at not scoring.
“I wanted to finish the game. I thought they would take risks in the last 10 minutes and I wanted to exploit that,” said Van Persie.
“I could see spaces opening up and I wanted to use them, so I was a bit shocked when I had to go off.”
“I am not scoring and that eats away at me, at every striker, I think,” he continued. “I’ve had a few small chances. I just want to score.
“I’m doing my absolute best, I can’t do more than that. I desperately want to score and give assists but it didn’t work out for me.”
His coach Bert Van Marwijk luckily didn’t take offence at the outburst: “I shook his hand and understood that he was disappointed, that’s not a bad thing. Everyone wants to play the whole game.” he said.
From justarsenal.com
Holland were 2-1 when Van Persie was taken off, and the youngster immediately strode up to the manager and publicly remonstrated with him, but he admitted today that it was just through personal frustration at not scoring.
“I wanted to finish the game. I thought they would take risks in the last 10 minutes and I wanted to exploit that,” said Van Persie.
“I could see spaces opening up and I wanted to use them, so I was a bit shocked when I had to go off.”
“I am not scoring and that eats away at me, at every striker, I think,” he continued. “I’ve had a few small chances. I just want to score.
“I’m doing my absolute best, I can’t do more than that. I desperately want to score and give assists but it didn’t work out for me.”
His coach Bert Van Marwijk luckily didn’t take offence at the outburst: “I shook his hand and understood that he was disappointed, that’s not a bad thing. Everyone wants to play the whole game.” he said.
From justarsenal.com
Inter Milan striker pleased with Arsenal’s interest
Mario Balotelli, striker of Inter Milan, was recently approached by Arsenal. To it he replies that he welcomes the interest of Gunners and he also at the same time describes the team to be a ‘great team’.
Balotelli, 19-year-old from Italy, has been long tracked by Arsenal boss. Manchester City also is tracking the young player.
Balotelli had many fallings out with Jose Mourinho last season. For this reason he was linked with a move to England along with rumors of interest from Arsenal and Manchester City.
On Tuesday morning Balotelli was in Milan to sit his college finals exams. When asked about his future, to Sky Sport Italia he said, “I don’t know if I will stay at Inter, we will see.”
He also added further, “Arsenal? I am happy that I am liked by Arsenal. I don’t know if there has been contact, you have to ask my agent.”
From arsenalspot.net
Balotelli, 19-year-old from Italy, has been long tracked by Arsenal boss. Manchester City also is tracking the young player.
Balotelli had many fallings out with Jose Mourinho last season. For this reason he was linked with a move to England along with rumors of interest from Arsenal and Manchester City.
On Tuesday morning Balotelli was in Milan to sit his college finals exams. When asked about his future, to Sky Sport Italia he said, “I don’t know if I will stay at Inter, we will see.”
He also added further, “Arsenal? I am happy that I am liked by Arsenal. I don’t know if there has been contact, you have to ask my agent.”
From arsenalspot.net
Saturday, June 26, 2010
New Arsenal keeper is ‘as good as Schmeichel’
According to two friends of mine, a Middlesbrough season ticket holder, and a Fulham season ticket holder, we have got ourselves one hell of a keeper if we do indeed sign Mark Schwarzer of Fulham.
The Fulham season ticket holder said these exact words, ‘He’s as good as Schmeichel, and he is the reason why we had such a great season’.
The Middlesbrough season ticket holder is the most negative football fan in the world, and he rarely has a great word to say about any Middlesbrough players. He said that Downing was over-rated, and Adam Johnson was inconsistent, but he told me that Schwarzer was ‘…amazing’, and ‘the best keeper we’ve [Middlesbrough] ever had’.
You see, the reason I was asking is because I’ve seen highlights of Mark Schwarzer but I haven’t really watched the full 90 minutes of too many Fulham games. After hearing these comments from both of my friends, it has made me feel a lot more confident if we did happen to sign Schwarzer.
At 37 years old, he could do a job for Arsenal for the next 2-3 seasons, until we managed to sign another top class keeper, or hope Fabianski reaches the potential we think he may be capable of.
Manchester United singed Edwin van der Sar when he was 35, and he continues to do a great job at 39. I think an older, more experienced keeper is exactly what we need at Arsenal. We would love Joe Hart, but he may still join Arsenal in the next 15 years or so.
From arsenal-opinion.com
Ramsey making good recovery
Young Gunners star Aaron Ramsey is reportedly recovering well from his horrific injury and looks set to be able to help Arsenal’s Premier League title battle next season.
The 19-year-old Wales midfielder was on the end of a horror challenge from Ryan Shawcross of Stoke City earlier in the year. The tackle shattered his right leg and left people seriously worrying if he would ever return to professional football.
Ramsey had become an impressive figure in the Arsenal midfield, but as a result of the challenge was forced to sit and watch as his Gunners’ team-mates eventually fell short in their bid to win the title.
He is now four months into his comeback from the injury and is running for the first time, according to Wales assistant boss Dean Saunders.
The former Premier League striker said it seems the player will need the pin in his leg taken out, but it looks likely he will make a full recovery and should feature at some point next season.
“That’s a decision he will make soon when he’s ready, but from what I’ve heard he’s progressing brilliantly and it shouldn’t be too long,” he told the Daily Star.
“It’s important for him, Arsenal and Wales to get back playing as he’s a great talent who should be showing us that on the football pitch.”
While the return of Ramsey would be like a new signing for Arsenal, Wenger is out scouting the globe for new players to improve the club’s title challenge next season.
One of the first signinigs could be Joe Cole, although it’s likely any deal will have to wait until he returns from the Football World Cup.
The likes of Mark Schwarzer, Laurent Koscielny and maybe a few others are all expected to be wearing the Arsenal red and white when the side start their Premier League season with a clash against Liverpool in August.
From arsenal-opinion.com
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Cole not set for United
Cole is a free agent after he failed to agree a new contract at Chelsea.
The midfielder, currently in South Africa with England, has insisted he is leaving talks of his future down to his representatives.
Arsenal and Manchester City emerged as favourites to sign Cole earlier this summer, but lately it was Man United who were widely reported to have won the race to land him on a free transfer.
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp said earlier this week that he felt a deal to take Cole to United was all but done.
But now Sky Sports sources understand that Cole will not be heading to Old Trafford this summer.
From skysports.com
Barcelona's battle for Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas takes a new twist
Barcelona president Joan Laporta last night claimed Arsenal will "give in" and sell Cesc Fabregas.
Barcelona have already had a £30m bid for Fabregas turned down and Laporta admits that it is unlikely any deal will be completed before he stands down on June 30.
But Laporta is convinced that his successor, Sandro Rosell, will be able to persuade Arsenal to sell with Barcelona believed to be ready to make an increased bid.
Laporta said: "Arsenal will end up giving in, but I don't know when that will be. We will have to wait and let the professionals who are taking care of it do their work.
From birminghammail.net
Gallas abutting to Juve move: agent
Arsenal apostle William Gallas would appetite a move to Juventus, according to his adumbrative Etienne Mendy.
According to some reports, Aresenal administrator Arsene Wenger has accepted his absorption in Laurent Koscielny to alter Gallas afterward poor World Cup showings in France team.
"I can affirm that Juventus are absorbed in the defender," Mendy told Itasportpress.it.
"I will accommodated the Bianconeri admiral to acquisition an acceding over his accomplishment afterwards accepting been in blow with them a few canicule ago.
"Juventus wish Gallas and he would be blessed to abrasion the Bianconeri shirt."
The 32-year-old centre-back will be out of arrangement at the Gunners next anniversary and he has aswell been affiliated with Roma and Paris Saint-Germain.
From Arsenal fc
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Arsenal interested in Russian Left Back
Arsenal are tracking Russia left back Renat Yanbaev amid concerns about Gael Clichy’s future.
Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus are all keen on Clichy, though Arsene Wenger is keen to hold on to the 24-year-old.
Wenger’s scouts in Russia have nonetheless recommended Lokomotiv defender Yanbaev, 26, who can also operate down the right.
The 26-year-old does not meet the automatic criteria for a work permit because he is behind Chelsea’s Yury Zhirkov in the pecking order for Russia, but he would stand a good case of winning approval from a panel hearing. Lorient expect Laurent Koscielny to join Arsenal in the next week.
From arsenaltransfers.co.uk
Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus are all keen on Clichy, though Arsene Wenger is keen to hold on to the 24-year-old.
Wenger’s scouts in Russia have nonetheless recommended Lokomotiv defender Yanbaev, 26, who can also operate down the right.
The 26-year-old does not meet the automatic criteria for a work permit because he is behind Chelsea’s Yury Zhirkov in the pecking order for Russia, but he would stand a good case of winning approval from a panel hearing. Lorient expect Laurent Koscielny to join Arsenal in the next week.
From arsenaltransfers.co.uk
Cole blow for Gunners
Arsenal would appear to have missed out on their summer target of Joe Cole who is now tipped to join Manchester United instead.
Cole will leave Chelsea at the end of the month after they failed, much to the disbelief of John Terry, to offer him a suitable contract that made him want to stay.
Arsene Wenger had looked to be winning the race to land the England midfielder on a free transfer but it would now appear he has made a decision to join United.
Arsenal are not the only side who had harboured hopes of signing the player as both Real Madrid and Spurs, managed by his former bosses Jose Mourinho and Harry Redknapp, had also been keen.
From eatsleepsport.com
Monday, June 21, 2010
Francis Coquelin agrees one-year loan at Lorient
The news has just come in that the young Arsenal defender Francis Coquelin has agreed to join Lorient for next season as a loan deal. The French U18 international will go straight into the first team at the Ligue 1 side, and it will be great for his development to get lots of competitive first-team experience.
It was also revealed on Lorient’s official website that this agreement has nothing to do with the transfer negotiations for Laurent Koscielny, who is expected to turn up for pre-season training next week as usual.
Coquelin is an extremely promising defender and made three appearances for the Gunners senior side last season, and 12 for the reserves.
From justarsenal.com
It was also revealed on Lorient’s official website that this agreement has nothing to do with the transfer negotiations for Laurent Koscielny, who is expected to turn up for pre-season training next week as usual.
Coquelin is an extremely promising defender and made three appearances for the Gunners senior side last season, and 12 for the reserves.
From justarsenal.com
Arsenal World Cup Match Day 10: Eboue’s Elephants Downed By Samba Boys
Three live matches a day. Plus at least one match a day on DVR for your player reviews. It’s enough to start dreaming football, and not in a good way. Sure enough I had a rather strange one the other night involving Joe Strummer, Smithy from “Gavin and Stacey”, the away stands at Wigan and a girl on her daily run who delivered a handwritten message to me from Arsene Wenger while I was waiting for the bus. I might need therapy after that dream. In any event, yesterday was Father’s Day, and while I’m not a dad myself, I do have a dad and decided to spend a football-free day with him. OK – maybe it was the dream that scared me away from footie, but Happy Father’s Day anyway.
Match Day 10 had Emmanuel Eboue’s Cote d’Ivoire facing the tall task of Brazil. Despite starting the injured Didier Drogba, it was always going to be a test to show against the Samba Boys. The match opened with some decent probing by each side, but nothing too threatening. A free kick from Drogba on 12 minutes was boomed into the stands, taking out a beer vendor in the 20th row. Brazil seemed content to absorb on defense and work the counter for much of the early going. Louis Fabiano opened the Brazilian account on 25 minutes with a quality strike into the top of the net from a tight angle. Nice ball work by Brazil preceding the goal. Neither attack was able to gain extended traction as the first half ended with Eboue’s men a goal down. Fabiano doubled Brazil’s lead on 50 minutes by creating his own opportunity in the box. Fabiano controlled possession, worked through a couple defenders and finished expertly. There could have been two hand balls called on Fabiano on the play, but neither was whistled. The Cote d’Ivoire defense completely fell asleep on Brazil’s final goal. Kaka led play down the left side, then sublimely slotted a pass into the box to be finished off by a near unmarked Elano on 62 minutes. Drogba put in a consolation header on 79 minutes for the first ever African goal against Brazil in World Cup play. Two late, controversial yellows on Kaka saw the Samba Boy sent off and Cote d’Ivoire tested, but the match was well in hand as 10 man Brazil moved into the Knockout Stage with the 3-1 win.
Cote d’Ivoire
Eboue Quiet As Elephants Fall To Brazil
Arsenal man Emmanuel Eboue took his second start for the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire yesterday against mighty Brazil. Early doors saw Eboue with some standard right midfield work, cleaning up wayward passes and the like. He did manage to make a nice run on 12 minutes, bobbing and weaving his way through the Brazilian defense to draw the foul and free kick after being hauled down. A promising free kick from the left side by Eboue on 16 minutes was met by a coterie of bodies around the keeper, who punched away safely. Emmanuel made an enterprising run and took a long range effort on goal just shy of the half, but it was wide of the mark. Eboue again fired wide of the net, garnering little more than a wave of the hand by the Brazilian keeper as it went by on 57 minutes. Nearing 70 minutes, former Arsenal man Kolo Toure played in a nice through ball for Eboue in the box, but it was collected well by the net minder before a final touch was made. A relatively quiet evening came to an end on 72 minutes as Eboue was subbed for Romaric. Not great yesterday, but not poor, either. Just not a lot of involvement for Arsenal’s #27.
* * *
Football Nomad is South Africa bound! Andy makes the flight to SA today, so be sure to check out his exclusive coverage as the World Cup continues. Germany V Ghana, Portugal V Brazil and a knockout stage match will feature in upcoming coverage. Get yourselves over to Football Nomad sharpish for all the latest videos, commentary and craziness.
From arsenalfcblog.com
Match Day 10 had Emmanuel Eboue’s Cote d’Ivoire facing the tall task of Brazil. Despite starting the injured Didier Drogba, it was always going to be a test to show against the Samba Boys. The match opened with some decent probing by each side, but nothing too threatening. A free kick from Drogba on 12 minutes was boomed into the stands, taking out a beer vendor in the 20th row. Brazil seemed content to absorb on defense and work the counter for much of the early going. Louis Fabiano opened the Brazilian account on 25 minutes with a quality strike into the top of the net from a tight angle. Nice ball work by Brazil preceding the goal. Neither attack was able to gain extended traction as the first half ended with Eboue’s men a goal down. Fabiano doubled Brazil’s lead on 50 minutes by creating his own opportunity in the box. Fabiano controlled possession, worked through a couple defenders and finished expertly. There could have been two hand balls called on Fabiano on the play, but neither was whistled. The Cote d’Ivoire defense completely fell asleep on Brazil’s final goal. Kaka led play down the left side, then sublimely slotted a pass into the box to be finished off by a near unmarked Elano on 62 minutes. Drogba put in a consolation header on 79 minutes for the first ever African goal against Brazil in World Cup play. Two late, controversial yellows on Kaka saw the Samba Boy sent off and Cote d’Ivoire tested, but the match was well in hand as 10 man Brazil moved into the Knockout Stage with the 3-1 win.
Cote d’Ivoire
Eboue Quiet As Elephants Fall To Brazil
Arsenal man Emmanuel Eboue took his second start for the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire yesterday against mighty Brazil. Early doors saw Eboue with some standard right midfield work, cleaning up wayward passes and the like. He did manage to make a nice run on 12 minutes, bobbing and weaving his way through the Brazilian defense to draw the foul and free kick after being hauled down. A promising free kick from the left side by Eboue on 16 minutes was met by a coterie of bodies around the keeper, who punched away safely. Emmanuel made an enterprising run and took a long range effort on goal just shy of the half, but it was wide of the mark. Eboue again fired wide of the net, garnering little more than a wave of the hand by the Brazilian keeper as it went by on 57 minutes. Nearing 70 minutes, former Arsenal man Kolo Toure played in a nice through ball for Eboue in the box, but it was collected well by the net minder before a final touch was made. A relatively quiet evening came to an end on 72 minutes as Eboue was subbed for Romaric. Not great yesterday, but not poor, either. Just not a lot of involvement for Arsenal’s #27.
* * *
Football Nomad is South Africa bound! Andy makes the flight to SA today, so be sure to check out his exclusive coverage as the World Cup continues. Germany V Ghana, Portugal V Brazil and a knockout stage match will feature in upcoming coverage. Get yourselves over to Football Nomad sharpish for all the latest videos, commentary and craziness.
From arsenalfcblog.com
Can someone tell Laporta to shut up?
I am getting increasingly frustrated by the blatant tapping up of Premier League players by Real Madrid and Barcelona. I thought that Real Madrid had set a new low last summer with their two year campaign to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United, but Barcelona is setting a whole new standard in their pursuit of Cesc Fabregas.
Outgoing Barcelona President Joan Laporta was quoted over the weekend as saying that he is confident that Arsenal will eventually “give in” and allow Fabregas to move back to the Nou Camp.
“Arsenal will end up giving in, but I don’t know when that will be. We will have to wait and let the professionals who are taking care of it do their work.”
Arsenal are one of the few teams that don’t need the transfer funds that a Fabregas sale will bring. We know that Wenger is extremely frugal in the transfer market so an additional £50m will not affect him that much.
I want Arsenal to take a stand and tell Laporta and the rest of his Barca team to get lost. And to also tell Fabregas that he has to honor the contract that he signed.
From wearearsenalblog.com
Outgoing Barcelona President Joan Laporta was quoted over the weekend as saying that he is confident that Arsenal will eventually “give in” and allow Fabregas to move back to the Nou Camp.
“Arsenal will end up giving in, but I don’t know when that will be. We will have to wait and let the professionals who are taking care of it do their work.”
Arsenal are one of the few teams that don’t need the transfer funds that a Fabregas sale will bring. We know that Wenger is extremely frugal in the transfer market so an additional £50m will not affect him that much.
I want Arsenal to take a stand and tell Laporta and the rest of his Barca team to get lost. And to also tell Fabregas that he has to honor the contract that he signed.
From wearearsenalblog.com
Gourcuff expects Koscielny exit
Promising defender set to agree Arsenal move
Lorient coach Christian Gourcuff has admitted he expects Laurent Koscielny to join Arsenal this summer.
Gunners' boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed an approach for the 24-year-old centre-back.
Koscielny is still under contract with the Ligue 1 side but they could be forced to let him move to England if Arsenal meet their asking price.
Lorient picked Koscielny up from second division side Tours FC last summer and Gourcuff is readying himself to go scouring the lower leagues again.
"Laurent will leave," Gourcuff told L'Equipe.
Pay
"If Arsenal really want him, they will pay the right fee.
"To replace him we will do what we're used to doing - even if the transfer fee will not be re-invested on a new central defender."
Lorient could also see Arnold Mvuemba move on with this summer.
They hope to agree a new deal with the 25-year-old midfielder, who is now a free agent, but he has also been attracting interest from Bordeaux, Monaco and Paris St Germain.
But Gourcuff has already begun to compensate for the loss of Koscielny with Arsenal youngster Francis Coquelin set to join Lorient on loan.
The France Under-19 international will have medical before putting pen to paper with Les Merlus, who resume training on Monday
From skysports.com
Lorient coach Christian Gourcuff has admitted he expects Laurent Koscielny to join Arsenal this summer.
Gunners' boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed an approach for the 24-year-old centre-back.
Koscielny is still under contract with the Ligue 1 side but they could be forced to let him move to England if Arsenal meet their asking price.
Lorient picked Koscielny up from second division side Tours FC last summer and Gourcuff is readying himself to go scouring the lower leagues again.
"Laurent will leave," Gourcuff told L'Equipe.
Pay
"If Arsenal really want him, they will pay the right fee.
"To replace him we will do what we're used to doing - even if the transfer fee will not be re-invested on a new central defender."
Lorient could also see Arnold Mvuemba move on with this summer.
They hope to agree a new deal with the 25-year-old midfielder, who is now a free agent, but he has also been attracting interest from Bordeaux, Monaco and Paris St Germain.
But Gourcuff has already begun to compensate for the loss of Koscielny with Arsenal youngster Francis Coquelin set to join Lorient on loan.
The France Under-19 international will have medical before putting pen to paper with Les Merlus, who resume training on Monday
From skysports.com
Saturday, June 19, 2010
England abate the burden on Arsenal supporters
Well what a amount of debris our civic ancillary dished up endure night. My actual column bout acknowledgment was all about acrimony and disappointment rather than analytic assay – just like if Arsenal accept a poor game. Of advance it’s all football and not hasty that the affect is agnate if watching England as watching Arsenal.
Arsenal will consistently appear afore England in my heart, but I’ll watch a bold in the esplanade and acquisition myself advancement one aggregation to win even admitting I’ve never apparent them play before.
All this got me cerebration about the parallels amid a poor England achievement and a poor Arsenal performance.
The big catechism that applies to both is….. are the players to accusation or the manager?
Did Capello become a bad administrator in the endure week? Do we accept a altered Arsène Wenger in allegation compared to the one who orchestrated the Invincibles?
The England ancillary lacked balance. Players were played out of position – Gerrard advanced left; Heskey just a allurement for the continued brawl with no end product; Lampard there just for his reputation. Joe Cole was the alone amateur accessible who could aftermath some abracadabra and he was larboard sitting on the bench. I’m 100% abiding that if Theo had been on the bank he would accept been brought on endure night, but he wasn’t even in the band – BIG mistake.
The administrator acutely bootless to say anthing to accomplish a aberration in his half-time aggregation allocution and he didn’t baddest the players from the bank who were able of axis the bold around. I don’t buy the altercation that the players are overpaid prima donnas who couldn’t care. To me they looked like they capital it too much, were afraid of abortion and could not handle the burden admitting their abundance of experience. I accede Capello to be the a lot of amiss for England’s poor performance.
Arsenal too accept been accusable of fielding abandon that abridgement antithesis and application players out of position. We accept favoured players who by all accounts are ablaze in training but abort to carbon that anatomy in matches. We accept looked clueless and defective in a plan B, so logically, one would apprehend to accord a lot of of the accusation to the administrator – and as we are all aware, abounding supporters yield that appearance to extremes.
Here I anticipate the allegory avalanche down. Unlike Capello, Arsène is accountable to a Board who’s aboriginal affair is the approaching and banking adherence of the club and possibly if I am cynical, the abeyant approaching amount of their investment. The bonbon coated PR that Arsenal agitate out is aboveboard aimed at giving the bulletin thay wish us to absorb rather than a accurate annual of activitiues abaft the scenes and Arsène is a assurance in that process. I accept he is currently authoritative statements apropos transfers that he knows are absurd to appear true.
Yes Arsène has fabricated some amazing aggregation selections and persevered with players who abounding accept will not accomplish the grade. Sometimes as in the case of Alex Song, he has been accepted appropriate andin added cases the board is still out. But he is the administrator and he is paid to accomplish those decisions.
Some of the media mongrels are already calling for Hary Redknapp to alter Capello. Although I’d like to see it artlessly because it would be abundant to apprehend all the whinging totnum fans, I don’t accept he has adeptness to administer abundant aloft the Championship.
So acknowledge you actual abundant Mr. Capello, you accept fabricated the cocky flagellation of getting an Arsenal adherent in the alteration window just a bit added tollerable. I admiration if Mr. Wenger has a wry smile on his face if he assemblage the angry accusation that his aeon Domenech and Capello are getting subjected to.
Defender atrocious for move to Arsenal
Lorient apostle Laurent Koscielny has appear that he is currently in negotiations with Arsenal in commendations to a move to the Premiership.
Manager Arsène Wenger has ahead declared that he wants to recruit new defenders afore the end of the World Cup finals in South Africa.
Koscielny has said that he's already met with Wenger, and is atrocious not to absence out on the befalling to move to North London.
The 24-year-old said: "Arsenal are one of the better European clubs, who plays in the Champions League. I anticipate it's a acceptable club to advance further. I do not wish to absence this opportunity.
"They accept contacted my representitives this week. I met with Arsène Wenger, as did my agents afterwards the end of endure season. It went well."
With a amount of axial defenders accepting larboard the club after accepting their affairs renewed, a accomplice for Thomas Vermaelen is crucial.
William Gallas, Sol Campbell, Philippe Senderos and Mikael Silvestre accept all larboard Arsenal as chargeless agents.
From arsenalFc
Bendtner still confident, but Alex Song’s Cameroon in disarray
Todays bold amid Denmark and Cameroon should be a adventitious to see Alex Song and Nicklas Bendtner play in absolute opposition, but it is now ambiguous whether they will both be on the pitch.
Bendtner played adjoin Holland for an hour admitting his beam injury, but is still hopeful he can play some allotment of todays bout as well. He thinks that his Denmark aggregation were a little afflicted in the 2-0 accident to Robin Van Persie’s team, and they can accomplish up for that defeat today.
“Everything looked beneath ascendancy until we gave abroad an simple goal, an own goal. It’s not something to abide on.” Bendtner said.
“I’m assured we will do bigger adjoin Cameroon because we acquire a acceptable team.”
He was again asked if he anticipation it would be difficult to play adjoin his Arsenal team-mate Song. He replied: “Alex had a acceptable division so will be a boxy opponent. But it’s not just him we acquire to play, it’s the accomplished team.”
Well the acceptable account for Bendtner is that he apparently WON’T acquire to face Song, as the in-form midfielder was demoted to the bank in the defeat adjoin Japan, and the accomplished aggregation seems to be up in accoutrements about drillmaster Paul Le Guen’s approach and aggregation selection.
Samuel Eto’o complained bitterly afterwards the Japan game. “Cameroon chose to appoint Paul Le Guen as administrator and it is up to him to face up to his responsibilities,” he said. “After the World Cup he will acquire to acknowledgment for his decisions. I played area Paul told me to, arresting the abut … I am the best striker in the history of Cameroonian and African football, but I acquire to play area the drillmaster tells me to. I’m answerable to acquire difficult situations.”
Achille Emana, who was aswell larboard on the bank adjoin Japan, has alleged for his administrator to reinstate himself and Song aback into todays team.
“The adolescent players cannot bear the array of burden that comes with arena in big tournaments,” Emana said. “That is why we are ambrosial on the administrator to amend afore the next game.”
As both teams absent their aboriginal games, the also-ran today will be as acceptable as on the even home, and at atomic one added Arsenal amateur will be starting their summer holidays early, forth with the Gunners French contingent…
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Ibrahimovic to be acclimated as allurement in new Fabregas offer
Reports in the Spanish columnist advance that the Swedish striker is now surplus to requirements at the Nou Camp afterward the contempo accession of David Villa and the Catalan club are accessible to move him on.
Barcelona’s attempts to assurance Fabregas accept afresh stalled, with Arsenal afraid to advertise their skipper admitting the Spaniard’s publicly-expressed admiration to leave.
From Arsenal fc
Arsenal sign Kyle Ebecilio
Arsenal have agreed a deal to sign Feyenoord’s Dutch under-17s midfielder Kyle Ebecilio, 16, when he becomes available on July 1.
Ebecilio was also wanted by Chelsea but Arsenal beat their London rivals and will only have to pay compensation for his training costs of around £500,000.
Feyenoord technical director Leo Beenhakker said: “We did what we could do by offering the kid a contract on time. But he wanted to wait, again this is his right. That he now goes to Arsenal, means that we only get a training allowance.
“This is the story of (Chelsea defender Jeffrey) Bruma, he was also a great talent that unfortunately never played for us. I treasure Ebicilio highly.”
From arsenaltransfers.co.uk
Winger looks to Reds or Gunners
Valencia star Juan Mata has admitted he would be interested in a move to the Premier League and he admires both Liverpool and Arsenal.
Valencia have financial problems and they may well be forced to sell some of their star players including Mata and although he loves life in Spain he has not ruled out a move to England.
With an electric turn of pace the left winger would be a welcome addition to either the Gunners or the Reds squad and with Valencia not in a position to dictate terms both sides could be looking to pick him up for a bargain fee.
He told Fourfourtwo magazine:"I don't know if I'll be sold, it depends on the economic situation of the club, which right now isn't so good. In the summer we have to raise a lot of money, and there is a possibility that they may have to sell players."In Spain they show many Premier League games on TV and it is an inspirational league.
"Maybe I would like to play in the Premier League. At the moment I'm here, I love living in Valencia and playing in the Spanish league, but in England the league is also top class and there are many big teams. Who knows?
"I admire Arsenal and the philosophy that the young players have. Liverpool, with their Spanish players - they also have an incredible squad. And Manchester United and Chelsea are teams that are very big, like Real Madrid and Barcelona, with money and incredible players."
With an electric turn of pace the left winger would be a welcome addition to either the Gunners or the Reds squad and with Valencia not in a position to dictate terms both sides could be looking to pick him up for a bargain fee.
He told Fourfourtwo magazine:"I don't know if I'll be sold, it depends on the economic situation of the club, which right now isn't so good. In the summer we have to raise a lot of money, and there is a possibility that they may have to sell players."In Spain they show many Premier League games on TV and it is an inspirational league.
"Maybe I would like to play in the Premier League. At the moment I'm here, I love living in Valencia and playing in the Spanish league, but in England the league is also top class and there are many big teams. Who knows?
"I admire Arsenal and the philosophy that the young players have. Liverpool, with their Spanish players - they also have an incredible squad. And Manchester United and Chelsea are teams that are very big, like Real Madrid and Barcelona, with money and incredible players."
From clubcall.com
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Wenger and Dion Dublin disagree on Walcott
Arsène Wenger seems to be the only person who thinks Theo Walcott should have gone to the World Cup.
The Arsenal boss believes his player had the quality to make an impact for England, and was surprised to find out he wasn't included in Fabio Capello's squad.
However, the Frenchman is backing Walcott to bounce back from this disappointment.
He said: "I must say that it was a big surprise and it was sad aswell. Theo is not only a quality player but he can have an impact when he comes on. However you have to live with the verdict.
"I've had a little text exchange with Theo and he will bounce back. In fact I think it will make him even more determined for next season. He is a very level-headed guy and very strong."
Dion Dublin disagrees, and thinks Walcott doesn't offer enough as a winger for the strikers in the box.
The former Man Utd and Aston Villa striker was not surprised to see Walcott dropped, as he believes there are several superior players who can play in that position for England.
He said: "Talking strictly as a centre forward, I need an end product, I need crosses in the box as a centre forward.
He added: "If you've got Theo, Lennon and Wright-Phillips, who's going to give you the best end product? As a forward I would probably have left Theo at home for that reason. All of the other reasons he would have made it in, but Mr. Capello knows his players better than anyone else."
From arsenal-mania.com
Sol Campbell – I may still return to Arsenal next season
The 35 year-old defender Sol Campbell has admitted that he has had lots of offers on places to play next season, but he will finally decide between Arsenal or Celtic. It is believed that the Gunners have offered him a one-year contract whereas Celtic boss Neil Lennon has offered him two. He also stated that he won’t make a final decision until Wenger returns from South Africa and they have one more meeting.
Campbell told ESPN: “I don’t know yet where I will be playing my football next season. What I do know for certain is that I will be getting married this summer, then I am off on honeymoon, but I will be back on July 27 ready for pre-season training.
“I might still stay at Arsenal, but will need to talk with Arsene Wenger after the World Cup finals, and I have had an offer from Celtic, which I am giving serious consideration to.
“Other clubs have also been in touch after the level of my performances for Arsenal last season.”
Perhaps he wants to see if Wenger matches the offer from Celtic before making a decision…………
From justarsenal.com
Fabregas claims to concentrate on national team now
Midfielder Cesc Fabregas recently said that he is focusing on the national team commitments and he is not concerned right now with the media news that he may move to Barcelona after the World Cup 2010 concludes.
23-year-old Cesc Fabregas is playing for Spain in the World Cup as midfielder.
He said, “I am isolated from it all and I am not thinking about anything else apart from the national team,” Fabregas said, as quoted by the Press Association. I have come to play a World Cup, which is the best thing possible for a player, with the same excitement that I had at the World Cup in Germany when I was 19.”
He also added further that he is hungry of doing something important and he will give everything for it with lots of desire and making sure that competitiveness and hunger did not lack in him.
Fabregas has the credit of 6 goals in fifty games for Spain. His debut was in 2006.
From arsenalspot.net
Laurent Koscielny reveals desire for Arsenal move
Arsenal have taken a significant step forward in their pursuit of Laurent Koscielny after the Lorient centre-back publicly declared his desire to join Arsene Wenger’s team.
Two bids have already been made for Koscielny, who is likely to come in as a direct replacement for William Gallas, with the clubs now moving close to Lorient’s valuation of around £9 million.
Wenger is also interested in England midfielder Joe Cole and Australia goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer, but those two deals are now unlikely to progress until after their involvement in the World Cup.
“It is difficult to not listen to someone like Arsene Wenger when he is attracted,” said Stephane Canard, Koscielny’s agent. "He recently called his chairman and coach to tell them he absolutely wants to join Arsenal.
From telegraph.co.uk
Monday, June 14, 2010
Song left on bench as Cameroon lose to Japan
Alex Song was not involved as Cameroon suffered a 1-0 defeat to Japan on Monday.
Paul Le Guen opted to leave the Arsenal midfielder on the bench and the 22-year-old did not see any action as Keisuke Honda's first-half strike earned Japan three points in Group E.
It was the first time Cameroon have lost their opening game at a World Cup.
The result means defeat to Denmark on Saturday would take The Indomitable Lions' fate out of their own hands and could end their hopes of qualifying for the last 16 if other results go against them.
From Arsenal.com
Arsenal to plan £4million bid for Nigerian keeper
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is rumoured to be considering a move for Nigerian international keeper Vincent Enyeama. The north London manager was apparently already an admirer of the Hapoel Tel Aviv goalie who had impressed in Europa League action last season during wins over Celtic and Rapid Vienna and his latest display against Argentina has further illustrated the 27 year old’s ability at the highest level.
Wenger is keen to sign a new keeper after seeing Manuel Almunia and Lukasz Fabianski put in a series of woeful performances last term and has been linked with moves for a number of potential replacements including Hugo Lloris and Joe Hart.
Enyeama has helped his Israeli side to the league and cup double last term and is known for his penchant for taking penalty kicks and has been linked with a move to La Liga in recent months. The Nigerian is thought to be available for around £4m.
Source: Caught Offside Blog
It appears very likely that Wenger is looking for a new keeper who is old enough not to inhibit our young goalies coming through the ranks and perhaps why he is ignoring such talents as Lloris and Neur of France and Germany. If Wenger has seriously looked at the Nigerian stopper before then this could seem real and his game versus Argentina was great however Wenger will not buy based on the world cup alone; I still believe he will be more tempted by Schwarzer should he be able to get him.
From arsenaltransfers.co.uk
Arsenal the Gunner linked to defensive ace
Ajax centre-back Jan Vertonghen is being linked with a move to Arsenal in the summer to team up with Thomas Vermaelen.
If he turns out to be as successful as Vermaelen has been at the Gunners then it would be a massive plus for Arsene Wenger after he was widely considered to be the best Premiership signing of last season.
Wenger is trying to recreate his back line with veterans William Gallas, Sol Campbell, and Mikael Silvestre all due to leave on free transfers this summer.
Wenger will now be hoping he can persuade the 22-year-old to swap the Eredivisie for the English top-flight this summer.
From eatsleepsport.com
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Preview: Netherlands - Denmark
The Dutch masters will face Danish dynamite at the Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg. Fans of the beautiful game will keep an eye on Dutch stars Robin van Persie and Wesley Sneijder who won't get support from Arjen Robben who has recovered from a hamstring injury but is not ready to face Denmark.
Danish coach Morten Olsen will put his trust in the strong centre halfs Simon Kjaer and Daniel Agger who will have to stay focused for more than 90 minutes as they face one of the world's best forward lines. Liverpool winger Dirk Kuyt and Real Madrid's Rafael van der Vaart will feature alongside Sneijder and Van Persie who will get support from Bayern München captain Mark van Bommel and Manchester City pitbull Nigel de Jong.
Oranje will hope to continue the outstanding form of their preparation matches in which they stunned Mexico, Ghana and Hungary. Denmark doestn't have the backing of great friendly results considering their disapponting displays against Australia and South Africa.
The Netherlands are favourite in their group with Denmark, Japan and Cameroon battling for second place. However, Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk has warned his players ahead of the crucial first match.
"A lot of people will probably think that we will make it to the next round without too much trouble. However, our opponents shouldn't be underestimated," said Van Marwijk.
Star player Nicklas Bendtner is sidelined with an groin strain and won't be able to help his side against Oranje. He did had some mental support for his teammates: "It's important that we stay realistic. Of course we're going there to win the tournament, but having said that, we don't have the same means as other big countries," the Arsenal striker said.
"However, we'll do our very best. Denmark have produced plenty of upsets in football history, so why not again?"
Danish coach Morten Olsen will put his trust in the strong centre halfs Simon Kjaer and Daniel Agger who will have to stay focused for more than 90 minutes as they face one of the world's best forward lines. Liverpool winger Dirk Kuyt and Real Madrid's Rafael van der Vaart will feature alongside Sneijder and Van Persie who will get support from Bayern München captain Mark van Bommel and Manchester City pitbull Nigel de Jong.
Oranje will hope to continue the outstanding form of their preparation matches in which they stunned Mexico, Ghana and Hungary. Denmark doestn't have the backing of great friendly results considering their disapponting displays against Australia and South Africa.
The Netherlands are favourite in their group with Denmark, Japan and Cameroon battling for second place. However, Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk has warned his players ahead of the crucial first match.
"A lot of people will probably think that we will make it to the next round without too much trouble. However, our opponents shouldn't be underestimated," said Van Marwijk.
Star player Nicklas Bendtner is sidelined with an groin strain and won't be able to help his side against Oranje. He did had some mental support for his teammates: "It's important that we stay realistic. Of course we're going there to win the tournament, but having said that, we don't have the same means as other big countries," the Arsenal striker said.
"However, we'll do our very best. Denmark have produced plenty of upsets in football history, so why not again?"
Almunia has no worries
Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia insists he will not be forced out of the club this summer.
The 33-year-old Spanish stopper may find his position at the Emirates under threat after the Gunners made an enquiry for Fulham's Mark Schwarzer.
Reports have suggested that even if Arsenal fail to land Australian Schwarzer, they will make current No.2 Lukasz Fabianski their first-choice keeper next season.
This would be a major blow for Almunia, who is vice-captain of the North London outfit and has been at the club since 2004.
However, he claims he is not worried about the situation and is focused on his future with Arsenal.
"I have a deal signed with Arsenal and nobody at the club has given me a reason to question my future," he said in The People.
From skysports.com
"So I am not worried about the situation. I have seen what the papers are saying but I do not think it affects me.
"I am resting now and watching the World Cup, and then I will return in July to work with the rest of the squad
The 33-year-old Spanish stopper may find his position at the Emirates under threat after the Gunners made an enquiry for Fulham's Mark Schwarzer.
Reports have suggested that even if Arsenal fail to land Australian Schwarzer, they will make current No.2 Lukasz Fabianski their first-choice keeper next season.
This would be a major blow for Almunia, who is vice-captain of the North London outfit and has been at the club since 2004.
However, he claims he is not worried about the situation and is focused on his future with Arsenal.
"I have a deal signed with Arsenal and nobody at the club has given me a reason to question my future," he said in The People.
From skysports.com
"So I am not worried about the situation. I have seen what the papers are saying but I do not think it affects me.
"I am resting now and watching the World Cup, and then I will return in July to work with the rest of the squad
More Transfer Rumors
Several interesting rumors floating around about Arsenal center-half and goalkeeper targets. Fortunately, Robert Green’s name is not amongst the possible goalkeeping targets:)
The other day I wrote that Arsenal had submitted a formal bid to Fulham for goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer. If the Schwarzer deal does not go through then Arsenal are reported to be tracking both Lyon keeper Hugo Lloris and Palermo goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu. Lloris has been voted the best keeper in France for the last two seasons, but it will take a massive bid to get him.
Continuing on the defence, reports in France say that the Gunners have made a formal offer of £8.2m for Lorient’s 24-year old centre-half Laurent Koscielny.This was the second bid that Arsenal had made for Koscielny. Originally Arsenal had offered £6.6m plus the services of midfielder Francis Coquelin on a season-long loan. That offered was turned down and Arsenal returned with a higher cash big.
With Gallas leaving and Campbell not able to play every week, it is reassuring to see that Wenger is addressing Arsenal’s defensive needs. A partnership of the 24-year old Koscielny and the 25-year old Vermaelen could lead Arsenal for the next 5 years.
Arsenal are also said to be preparing a bid for South Africa winger Steven Pienaar. Pienaar is entering the final 12-months of his contract at Everton and could probably be bought for little money.
Wenger had this to say about Pienaar in the Daily Mail this week:
“Pienaar has grown this year. He was usually a very busy player where the final ball was missing a little bit, but this year he has gained in personality and he has kept his work-rate, so he has been much more efficient. What also played a big role in his growth was that Mikel Arteta was not there for a while and that he had to take the responsibility of being the playmaker of the team. He was one of the best players in England this year. He would get into the Arsenal team. I always had an eye on him since he was at Ajax.”
Hopefully some of these transfer stories will turn into new players. But it is encouraging to see that Arsenal are being linked with players in areas that they need help; like center-half and keeper.
From wearearsenalblog.com
The other day I wrote that Arsenal had submitted a formal bid to Fulham for goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer. If the Schwarzer deal does not go through then Arsenal are reported to be tracking both Lyon keeper Hugo Lloris and Palermo goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu. Lloris has been voted the best keeper in France for the last two seasons, but it will take a massive bid to get him.
Continuing on the defence, reports in France say that the Gunners have made a formal offer of £8.2m for Lorient’s 24-year old centre-half Laurent Koscielny.This was the second bid that Arsenal had made for Koscielny. Originally Arsenal had offered £6.6m plus the services of midfielder Francis Coquelin on a season-long loan. That offered was turned down and Arsenal returned with a higher cash big.
With Gallas leaving and Campbell not able to play every week, it is reassuring to see that Wenger is addressing Arsenal’s defensive needs. A partnership of the 24-year old Koscielny and the 25-year old Vermaelen could lead Arsenal for the next 5 years.
Arsenal are also said to be preparing a bid for South Africa winger Steven Pienaar. Pienaar is entering the final 12-months of his contract at Everton and could probably be bought for little money.
Wenger had this to say about Pienaar in the Daily Mail this week:
“Pienaar has grown this year. He was usually a very busy player where the final ball was missing a little bit, but this year he has gained in personality and he has kept his work-rate, so he has been much more efficient. What also played a big role in his growth was that Mikel Arteta was not there for a while and that he had to take the responsibility of being the playmaker of the team. He was one of the best players in England this year. He would get into the Arsenal team. I always had an eye on him since he was at Ajax.”
Hopefully some of these transfer stories will turn into new players. But it is encouraging to see that Arsenal are being linked with players in areas that they need help; like center-half and keeper.
From wearearsenalblog.com
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Wenger shows interest in Cole, wants to Retain Cesc
Manager Arsène Wenger has admitted that the prospect of Joe Cole signing for Arsenal would be 'exciting', but stopped short of confirming whether the club were actually in negotiations with the England international.
Cole is now a free agent after Chelsea themselves confirmed that they would not be retaining the 28-year-old's services, who is now with the England squad in South Africa.
The stumbling block to any deal seems to be Cole's wage demands, though to be within the £100,000 per week range, a figure that may push the limits of the club's wage policy.
Wenger said: "I like him as a player because when he played against us he always did a lot of damage.
"He can create impact through his creative play. He can dribble, he can pass, he can score goals."
The boss is adamant
Meanwhile, Wenger pretty much closed the door on Barcelona's hounding of captain Cesc Fabregas, saying that it wasn't in Arsenal's interests to sell their best players.
Wenger added: "What is important is that Cesc has a great World Cup and that he comes back to Arsenal with a great desire to do well for the club.
"We want to keep our best players – that's my huge determination – I built this team for years from 16 and 17 years of age with most of the players.
"We want to continue to work with them because we feel we are very close, and strengthen the team in a very strong way."
Written by Jonathan Chong
Cole is now a free agent after Chelsea themselves confirmed that they would not be retaining the 28-year-old's services, who is now with the England squad in South Africa.
The stumbling block to any deal seems to be Cole's wage demands, though to be within the £100,000 per week range, a figure that may push the limits of the club's wage policy.
Wenger said: "I like him as a player because when he played against us he always did a lot of damage.
"He can create impact through his creative play. He can dribble, he can pass, he can score goals."
The boss is adamant
Meanwhile, Wenger pretty much closed the door on Barcelona's hounding of captain Cesc Fabregas, saying that it wasn't in Arsenal's interests to sell their best players.
Wenger added: "What is important is that Cesc has a great World Cup and that he comes back to Arsenal with a great desire to do well for the club.
"We want to keep our best players – that's my huge determination – I built this team for years from 16 and 17 years of age with most of the players.
"We want to continue to work with them because we feel we are very close, and strengthen the team in a very strong way."
Written by Jonathan Chong
Bendtner is expected to miss Denmark's against Holland
Striker Nicklas Bendtner is expected to miss Denmark's against Holland on Monday, with coach Morten Olsen admitting that it would be 'a dream' to expect the 22-year-old to be ready.
The Danish international has been struggling with a groin injury since the end of the domestic season, and hasn't been training with the rest of the Danish squad in the World Cup.
Olsen said: "We'd love to have him back of course but I think I would be dreaming to have him back. I don't think he will play.
"Surely we hope to have him back (sometime during the World Cup), he is good player, a talented player and we hope."
Bendtner added: "You want to be 100 percent but you have to take it day-by-day and see what happens.
"No, I am not confident I will play (against the Netherlands), I will take it day-by-day then see how it works and see what happens.
"I am still missing a few things and it is not great but we will see."
Denmark will travel to Johannesburg on Saturday ahead of their Group E opener on Monday against the Netherlands.
However, striker Robin van Persie is expected to lead the Dutch attack in that same match
Written by Jonathan Chong
The Danish international has been struggling with a groin injury since the end of the domestic season, and hasn't been training with the rest of the Danish squad in the World Cup.
Olsen said: "We'd love to have him back of course but I think I would be dreaming to have him back. I don't think he will play.
"Surely we hope to have him back (sometime during the World Cup), he is good player, a talented player and we hope."
Bendtner added: "You want to be 100 percent but you have to take it day-by-day and see what happens.
"No, I am not confident I will play (against the Netherlands), I will take it day-by-day then see how it works and see what happens.
"I am still missing a few things and it is not great but we will see."
Denmark will travel to Johannesburg on Saturday ahead of their Group E opener on Monday against the Netherlands.
However, striker Robin van Persie is expected to lead the Dutch attack in that same match
Written by Jonathan Chong
Barcelona continue to chase Cesc Fabregas
Barcelona hope to negotiate the signing of Arsenal's Spanish midfielder Cesc Fabregas while he is at the World Cup.
The Gunners have already turned down a bid of about £30m from the Catalans and said they would not welcome further interest in their 23-year-old captain.
Barca's corporate director general Joan Oliver said: "Cesc has arrived in South Africa for the World Cup, but there are a lot of football people there.
"Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and Barca representatives will be there."
Oliver believes a deal can be done to bring the Spain international, who played in the youth team at the Nou Camp before moving to north London seven years ago, back to Barcelona, although he would not be drawn into when the transfer could happen.
"You can never predict when a signing will be closed," he said. "In this world, when you put a deadline on it, you always end up losing out.
"This is a three-sided affair and the third side [Arsenal] have not expressed themselves in any way.
"There is a player who wants to come here, but he has a contract. We have made an offer and they have said that the player is not for sale.
"The problem is between the player and the club [Arsenal]; we haven't been invited to the table [to negotiate]."
Oliver also dismissed Real Madrid's interest in Fabregas, suggesting that Arsenal are using their Spanish rivals to bump up the price.
"What a coincidence," he said. "When Barca are negotiating for a player, another club appears out of the blue - it's always the same.
"We complete signings when the price is reasonable. And the story of Cesc is what it is. The player has said both publicly and privately that he wants to play for Barca."
From news.bbc.co.uk
The Gunners have already turned down a bid of about £30m from the Catalans and said they would not welcome further interest in their 23-year-old captain.
Barca's corporate director general Joan Oliver said: "Cesc has arrived in South Africa for the World Cup, but there are a lot of football people there.
"Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and Barca representatives will be there."
Oliver believes a deal can be done to bring the Spain international, who played in the youth team at the Nou Camp before moving to north London seven years ago, back to Barcelona, although he would not be drawn into when the transfer could happen.
"You can never predict when a signing will be closed," he said. "In this world, when you put a deadline on it, you always end up losing out.
"This is a three-sided affair and the third side [Arsenal] have not expressed themselves in any way.
"There is a player who wants to come here, but he has a contract. We have made an offer and they have said that the player is not for sale.
"The problem is between the player and the club [Arsenal]; we haven't been invited to the table [to negotiate]."
Oliver also dismissed Real Madrid's interest in Fabregas, suggesting that Arsenal are using their Spanish rivals to bump up the price.
"What a coincidence," he said. "When Barca are negotiating for a player, another club appears out of the blue - it's always the same.
"We complete signings when the price is reasonable. And the story of Cesc is what it is. The player has said both publicly and privately that he wants to play for Barca."
From news.bbc.co.uk
Gunners move for Schwarzer
Arsenal have confirmed they have made an approach to sign Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.
Wenger wants a new No.1 and this has been confirmed by his pursuit of the Australian custodian.
Despite being 37, the former Middlesbroughshot-stopper, is still considered one of the Premier League's best and he played a huge part in Fulham's resurgence in the past couple of seasons.
Now Wenger is hoping he can strike a deal with Fulham, although they have rebuffed Arsenal'sopening advances.
"We have made an enquiry for him and they are not prepared to sell him so we have gone away," Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood told the Daily Star.
"We can only hope they will change their minds, but at the moment it doesn't look like it."
Meanwhile, Hill-Wood has also confirmed that Arsenal will not be meeting the demands of William Gallas - who is out-of-contract at the end of this month.
The French international wants at least a two-year deal, which goes against Arsenal policy as they generally do not offer more than 12-month contracts to players over 30.
At 32, Gallas has only been offered a one-year extension - which he has thus far refused to sign.
"He is asking for too much for too long," he said.
"Players are going to have to learn some time that money doesn't grow on trees.
From skysports.com
Arsene Wenger: Steven Pienaar would get into the Arsenal team
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was full of praise for Everton and South Africa midfielder Steven Pienaar, saying how he would get into his Arsenal team.
The 28-year old former Ajax midfielder has been in splendid form for the Toffees last season and despite having a quiet start to his World Cup campaign, he is tipped by many to shine during the South African competition.
Speaking of the player, Wenger explained that he has grown in personality especially when Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta was sidelined after he injured a ligament in his knee which kept him out for more than a year, leaving the South African as the playmaker of David Moyes’ team, a job which according to the Arsenal boss he did exceptionally well.
The Frenchman concluded by saying how Pienaar was one of the best players in last season’s English Premiership, revealing how he’s been monitoring since he was with Ajax.
Wenger said:
Pienaar has grown this year.
He was usually a very busy player where the final ball was missing a little bit, but this year he has gained in personality and he has kept his work-rate, so he has been much more efficient.
What also played a big role in his growth was that Mikel Arteta was not there for a while and that he had to take the responsibility of being the playmaker of the team.
He was one of the best players in England this year. He would get into the Arsenal team. I always had an eye on him since he was at Ajax.
From thegunninghawk.com
By Jeffrey
Friday, June 11, 2010
Marouane Chamakh profile
Name
Marouane Chamakh
Born
January 10, 1984Tonneins, France
Position
Striker
Squad Number
29
Previous Club(s)
Bordeaux
Joined ArsenalMay 21, 2010
Marouane
Chamakh (26) joined Arsenal from French side Bordeaux, he made a total of 293 appearances, scoring 79 goals during his eight years with Les Girondins.
In the 2008/09 league campaign, Chamakh scored 14 goals, helping Bordeaux win the French League title, thus ending Lyon's seven-year domination of Ligue 1. The Moroccan striker's fine form continued last season, playing an integral role in helping Bordeaux reach the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, where they finished above both Bayern Munich and Juventus in the Group Stages.
Born and raised in France, but playing international football for Morocco through his parentage, Chamakh has made 53 appearances for the north African country, scoring 27 goals, and was part of the side which reached the Final of the 2004 Africa Cup of Nation
From Arsenal.com
Sol Campbell
Sol Campbell profile
Name
Sol Campbell
Born
September 18, 1974 Newham, London
Position
DefenderSquad
Number
31
Previous Club(s)
Tottenham Hotspur
Arsenal
Portsmouth
Notts County
Joined ArsenalJanuary 16, 2010
Campbell (35) spent five seasons at Arsenal between 2001 and 2006 and is a vastly experienced player for both club and country. During his distinguished career, Sol has made 462 appearances in the Premier League and is currently fourth on the all-time Premier League appearances list. Campbell has also been a member of the England squad for six major tournaments between 1996 and 2006.
Originally joining Arsenal in July 2001, Campbell won five major honours with the Gunners, including the league and FA Cup ‘double' in 2002, and was an integral part of the historic ‘Invincibles' squad, which went the entire 2003/04 Premier League season unbeaten.
Manager Arsène Wenger said: "We are delighted to have signed Sol Campbell until the end of the season. For both club and country, Sol's career just speaks for itself. He is a hugely experienced and intelligent footballer, who will bring a great amount of quality and knowledge to our squad. Sol as a player and a person will be an enormous asset to us.
"Sol has been training with us since September and during this time he has shown he still has the required fitness, hunger and passion to compete at the top level."
After completing his move back to the Gunners, Campbell said: "I'm so happy to be rejoining Arsenal. I have many great memories from being here before and still have many friends at the Club. I've been working very hard at the Arsenal Training Ground, I feel really good at the moment and I'm ready to give my all. We're in a strong position and I want to help Arsenal be successful this season."
During his hugely successful first spell at Arsenal, Campbell made a total of 197 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 11 times. Fittingly, he scored in his last appearance in an Arsenal shirt - the 2006 UEFA Champions League Final, when the Gunners narrowly lost 2-1 to Barcelona in Paris.
Campbell left Arsenal in the summer of 2006 and joined Portsmouth, where he made 95 appearances in three seasons with the south coast club, during which time he captained the side to their FA Cup Final victory in 2008, Pompey's first major trophy in over 50 years.
From Arsenal.com
Name
Sol Campbell
Born
September 18, 1974 Newham, London
Position
DefenderSquad
Number
31
Previous Club(s)
Tottenham Hotspur
ArsenalPortsmouth
Notts County
Joined ArsenalJanuary 16, 2010
Campbell (35) spent five seasons at Arsenal between 2001 and 2006 and is a vastly experienced player for both club and country. During his distinguished career, Sol has made 462 appearances in the Premier League and is currently fourth on the all-time Premier League appearances list. Campbell has also been a member of the England squad for six major tournaments between 1996 and 2006.
Originally joining Arsenal in July 2001, Campbell won five major honours with the Gunners, including the league and FA Cup ‘double' in 2002, and was an integral part of the historic ‘Invincibles' squad, which went the entire 2003/04 Premier League season unbeaten.
Manager Arsène Wenger said: "We are delighted to have signed Sol Campbell until the end of the season. For both club and country, Sol's career just speaks for itself. He is a hugely experienced and intelligent footballer, who will bring a great amount of quality and knowledge to our squad. Sol as a player and a person will be an enormous asset to us.
"Sol has been training with us since September and during this time he has shown he still has the required fitness, hunger and passion to compete at the top level."
After completing his move back to the Gunners, Campbell said: "I'm so happy to be rejoining Arsenal. I have many great memories from being here before and still have many friends at the Club. I've been working very hard at the Arsenal Training Ground, I feel really good at the moment and I'm ready to give my all. We're in a strong position and I want to help Arsenal be successful this season."
During his hugely successful first spell at Arsenal, Campbell made a total of 197 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 11 times. Fittingly, he scored in his last appearance in an Arsenal shirt - the 2006 UEFA Champions League Final, when the Gunners narrowly lost 2-1 to Barcelona in Paris.
Campbell left Arsenal in the summer of 2006 and joined Portsmouth, where he made 95 appearances in three seasons with the south coast club, during which time he captained the side to their FA Cup Final victory in 2008, Pompey's first major trophy in over 50 years.
From Arsenal.com
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