Sign-in with your Online Gooner forum login to add your comment. If you do not have a login register here.

1. Hi Berry

   Oct 08, 2014, 6:01 #58846

   I'm amazed! Jamie in his post 62102 has laid out what it would take for him to think change was due.......'if we fell outside the top four and showed little in the domestic cups and failed to get further in this year's Champions League then I would probably think it was time for a change'. Well, we have bowed out of the Carling Cup at the first hurdle and are only a bad draw away from doing the same when the FA Cup comes around. Progressing further than the last 16 in the CL would also seem fanciful given the nature of defeat against Dortmund which leaves us with the holy grail of winning the Fourth Place Trophy. Can it really be that that is all it would take for Jamie to change his position after all those posts berating all and sundry for being plastic fans and telling them to '**** off down the Lane'? Nothing personal Jamie, but there does seem to be a bit of inconsistency in the nature of that post.

2. Mathew

   Oct 08, 2014, 5:49 #58845

   Tony Evans, maguiresbridge, I am 101% convinced that Arsenal will never win a Premier League title under Wenger anymore. So all he can do with his age old tactics is to do tiki-taka and win against the minnows, which wont paper the cracks but certainly benefit the owner, shareholders, manager and a certain group of fans too. Because winning ways psychologically will create an impact and it tends to overshadow the losses during the year. Wenger is a good manager, but as i posted in my previous comments, he doesn't have it anymore for the big games. He should try and move to a director role in some club which is facing cash influx and wage demands.

3. Ozzie

   Oct 08, 2014, 3:28 #58842

   After reading the last couple of posts I had a vision - it was of a pair of puppets - one in each hand nodding to each other. Maguiresbridge, self anointed or anointed?

4. Rob

   Oct 07, 2014, 21:05 #58834

   I have just about calmed down from Sunday. And I have taken the trouble to read most of the posts on here. It seems to be the same Wenger - For/against - arguments as per the last four or five years. Like defeats to top teams, this doesn't change. Yes I accept that Wenger has done fantastic things on the pitch in the first 12 years of his tenure. Yes he managed the transition to the Emirates better than anyone - Ferguson or Mourinho - ever could have. Yes we have only just got to the point where we can buy rather than sell top players. But even allowing for all that, his glaring deficiencies become more and more clear. He declines tactics - period. He sets up to play one way and one way only. Against lesser teams it broadly works. Against the better teams here or in Europe, it doesn't. That has been the case for four or more years now. He refuses to learn. His use of substitutes seems bizarre and at times woeful. His team selection against the bigger teams looks - to me - likewise. His failure to strengthen our defence with at least one extra central defender in the TW just past looked MAD. The equivalent of throwing out the spare tyre before going off road in rocky terrain and low and behold, we in effect had a puncture in late September. And he presumes bewilderment ? The most depressing thing about all this is that there seems no chance of him changing his methods regardless of the money. Football like so much of sport and life derives it's pleasure from the element of the unknown. The chance that Micky T might just charge through the midfield with seconds to go. That Alan Sunderland pops up at the far post right after we concede a sucker equaliser. That's all gone now. It is as the writer says - so predictable. And for the life of me, I just cannot see - regardless of what Wenger's supporters on here proclaim otherwise - how any of that changes. We've got 13 League Titles. Chelsea have 4. Who will be first to 14 ? If we pitifully cling to Wenger, when fresh thinking is so plainly needed, we'll see Chelsea and others increase their Title haul long before Wenger renews yet another three year contract in 2018. That prospect is - for me - even more depressing than Chelsea going from four to five ; and from five to six ; and from six to seven ; and seven to eight… We need to rediscover Arsenal Football Club and move on from Arsene FC. We really do. I used to be a Season Ticket holder but I just couldn't take it any more. I'll go back when we get back to being what and as we should be. I'm not anticipating seeing the Emirates from the inside any time before 2020. And regardless of what anyone accuse me of - I feel really sad about that.

5. BADARSE

   Oct 07, 2014, 18:45 #58825

   Bard, my post 61691 was an attempt at a question you posed.

6. BADARSE

   Oct 07, 2014, 18:23 #58822

   No, you speak for me on these matters GBP. Have enjoyed your posts and the great responses from A&F and Exeter Gunner. Actually there are some really good posts on here today-just a coincidence that I haven't posted and sullied the water. Have just finished painting our grandson's bedroom, he is away in Ypres. My wife took the new away shirt to B&Q and has matched the blue and yellow perfectly. He will be chuffed tomorrow when he returns, as it's a surprise. Off for a Ruby tonight as a small reward. Can you hear me radfordkennedy?

7. GBP

   Oct 07, 2014, 18:00 #58818

   KC - I hear you as well mate. People say that us who are backing things as they are at the present are oblivious to the negatives. I can only speak for me in saying its far from the truth to assume that. As with A and F, you make good sound points none of which that escape me, despite what some posters like to portray.

8. GBP

   Oct 07, 2014, 17:44 #58816

   A and F - Good solid post and i do hear all that you say. Respect.

9. GBP

   Oct 07, 2014, 17:33 #58815

   Exeter G - Can see your points. Personally i think Wenger has a lot of good stuff going on in his life outside of football and things he wants to do do from what ive read from time to time and dont think he ll want to fester away like Ferguson did until his 70s. Hes 65 nearly now and its one of the factors that makes me think he ll want out of it quite soon. His body language and words have suggested form some 2-3 years now that hes not as enamoured with how football has gone in the last few years. We ll see wont we.

10. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 07, 2014, 15:31 #58805

    Matthew, Tony Evans, yes a nice run of fixtures coming up(well you'd like to think so) for OGL to redeem himself (yet again) how kind of them, so much for this imaginary vendetta against us. We can revert back to fast track bullies now and really show our class all over the pitch with tippy tappy from back to front before we score a bunch of perfect goals (even our saviour Diaby might be up for an appearance against that lot). And suddenly we'll be told we've come good at last (with some actually believing it) and all problems forgotten, until like you say Tony it all goes tits up again, and their all brought crashing back down to earth.

11. BADARSE

    Oct 07, 2014, 15:07 #58804

    I can only endorse your outlook JAMIE, well said Gooner, would feel honoured to stand with you in the bright sunshine, watching creeping things in the shadows. Only kidding Bard. By the way I've already answered your question a few days ago. Haven't time to check the post number, may later, otherwise it really is Groundhog Day. JAMIE, are you a belly-button fluff collector? I know there aren't many of them left. Bard, so you've never had a tear-up in M&S, you don't know what you're missing, they have a better quality custard pie there for a start!

12. JAMIE

    Oct 07, 2014, 14:58 #58802

    I hate it when Arsenal lose and it spoils the next day yet I'm not going to go around moaning about the club and Wenger.If teams were outplaying us regularly and I'm not talking about the odd thrashing by some inferior football team which is more down to percentage football than any real ability.If we fell out side the top four and showed little in the domestic cups and failed to get further in this years Champions league then I would probably think it was time for a change.Bard you seem to think the only superfans we have are those who are constantly sniping at the club manager and team,that I strongly disagree with.

13. Bard

    Oct 07, 2014, 14:29 #58798

    Jamie, i can go along with that, nice day out a few beers and dont worry about the result. I do the same thing at Marks and Spencers on Sundays, a bit of shopping and a coffee with the missus, its all good fun. I dont trouble myself with the lay out of the shop or the prices or the dividend. No problem with that at all. Incidentally what would be the time to protest.

14. Unchives

    Oct 07, 2014, 14:22 #58797

    @ Jamie - No one will ever forget Mike MANC Riley, cheating us not only out of our unbeaten run, but perhaps preventing us going onto greater things that season. The worst & most bias refereeing in a game, I have ever witnessed. Even under George Graham, the Mancs tried to cheat us out of our 1-0 win at their place by fighting, they were deducted 1 point, we were deducted 2!However that team had spirit and used the injustice to fight harder, this is what we need now!

15. KC

    Oct 07, 2014, 14:12 #58796

    @GBP Wenger has achieved an enormous amount at our club and has overseen a massive move. He has achieved good league finishes on a low transfer budget. He has helped build a great structure and certainly increased the whole turnover of the club. The issue now though is the decisions made on purely football matters on the pitch. The decision not to buy replacements for Flamini and Arteta, the obsessive notion of taking players like Flamini on freebies when we have funds not to do so. To replace these two midfield players would not require a huge financial outlay and yet while everyone in football know its our weakness our manager carries on playing either with grave consequences when we come against top opposition. The decision to allow TV to leave and not replace even though he knew in May, the inability to accept we may sometimes have to change the way we play against the best. These are my issues with him based on football not club building, without doubt Arsenal are in a better position off the field but now the finance is in place we still see the stubborn nature of a man who I believe struggles with modern day ideology, the comment after Sunday about financial muscle said it all, he was looking for an excuse re the loss rather than looking at his own teams shortcomings. While a lot of what you say may be correct it is still guess work and please remember that because someone wants change it does not mean they do not appreciate what's gone on before.

16. CT Gooner

    Oct 07, 2014, 13:51 #58793

    I for one would not loose any sleep to see the end of tiki-taka at the Grove. I miss the dynamic hard nose football Arsenal were known for. When was the last time we felt comfortable screaming 1-0 to the Arsenal?? What happened to Spain in Brazil, that's right, they got spanked by a dynamic hard counter attacking side, and you know what, the highlight reel included goals! I don't applaud when we pass it around and lose the ball in the final third, normally without a shot on target. And for all those talking about Chelsea "cheating" by playing hard, where did you learn to play football?? Hell, that used to be us (even DB10), and I miss those days....

17. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 07, 2014, 13:43 #58792

    Ozzie, correction, self anointed.

18. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 07, 2014, 13:32 #58791

    Bard, you're a glutton for punishment, do you not remember what happened when you met big Helen/Pete was that not enough? what you going to do if their all related?

19. JAMIE

    Oct 07, 2014, 13:21 #58790

    Unchives-You are correct in a lot of what you say.I believe we play a far more expansive game than City,certainly Chelsea.I think we often miss out because of the teams lack of cleverness or gamesmanship.Take Hazard he left his foot out knowing Chambers would catch him and basically win a none foul and a booking.Chambers then couldn't afford to tackle him for the penalty,which again was won by leaving a trailing leg.Mourinho and Fergy before him would install that in his players. Wengers never interested in that side of the game and is only interested in playing the way he sees fit,which even though in this modern age works against him,I also applaud him for it.If Arsenal sacked Wenger and got in a new manager I would still go to the games and support the manager as I did when George was in charge,yet if the football was more direct like Chelsea or Spuds I would probably purchase a cheaper season ticket.

20. Tony Evans

    Oct 07, 2014, 13:11 #58789

    A and F - good post from you as usual, and I agree with all the points you make. The frustration most of us have with Wenger is his stubborn refusal to win at all costs and get the three points, or the away draw required, by whatever means it takes. Park the bus, play a more direct game, make sure you have the right mixture of creative and 'get stuck in' type players, and use players where they are most effective i.e. their natural positions - all this seems to pass Wenger by in his devotion to style over substance. Until he becomes more pragmatic in his approach to the big games coaches like Mourinho will always have him for breakfast. He will not change though and has to go for Arsenal to do more than last 16 CL and 3rd or 4th in the Premiership.

21. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 07, 2014, 12:42 #58788

    Why have we only got 6, just like a little child with their comfort blanket

22. JAMIE

    Oct 07, 2014, 12:35 #58787

    Jetplane-Not a milkman or a postie.There's only a few of what I do left in the UK...that's got you guessing.

23. Tony Evans

    Oct 07, 2014, 12:27 #58786

    Matthew - I suppose the only way is to try and kid yourself that it will be different this season which is difficult when you virtually know with cast iron certainty that it won't be.

24. DJ

    Oct 07, 2014, 12:27 #58785

    Lord Froth: On your football point, as we enter what should be profitable period regarding gaining points I would like to see the shackles taken off and us really go if. It is a bug bear of mine that we play one up front against even the weakest teams and shoe horn four central midfielders into three positions resulting in lovely football in the middle third but not enough options in the final third. With the squad we have I would like to see Ox, Sanchez and Welbeck occupy the front three positions, as worked so well against Galatasary, with Walcott’s pace as a weapon in the last half hour. Pick two from three Ozil, Jack and Carzola in the central attacking positions with Diaby/Flamini holding. On this I would like Issac Hayden to be given a chance in this role as he looked to have aggression, pace and hunger when he played against Southampton three attributes a lot of our squad seem to lack.

25. Angry & Frustrated

    Oct 07, 2014, 12:26 #58784

    @GBP Interesting observations you make about running your own business, which like you I have done for over 20 years. My comment on your thoughts is that as you have been in business, you will like me have seen many changes. More importantly though you will also have learned to tweak and adjust your management, because nothing stands still. Businesses that don’t change and adjust invariably go bust, because younger more dynamic hungrier ones take over. A very good example is the internet itself, which has forced practically every business to adjust, those that didn’t or won’t die, or are in the process of dying! Wenger is a very good case in point if you wish to use business analogies. He undoubtedly gave the blueprint in how to be successful for everyone else to follow, namely a rock solid defence (inherited) coupled to a couple of Rottweiler type of holding midfielders (any two from Veirra, Petit, Gilberto or Parlour) then complimented it with very creative midfielders and forwards. Even those players, with perhaps the exception of Pires had something about them, typified by DB10 who knew how to look after himself. So once Wenger showed everybody else how to succeed they copied him, whilst he decided to go down the youth tippy tappy don’t shoot route. I like most accept that he initially had no choice but to do this, because of the new stadium costs. Getting back to business though, when it becomes clear that this method is not achieving what’s required against other big clubs, surely you would adjust your business model to make it work? Just as I and presumably you have had to do over the years when our own money was at stake in our businesses! It’s Wenger’s entrenched position that irritates most, as even just some minor adjustments coupled with the purchase of more “Over my dead body will you get past me” type of players could make all the difference. His entrenched idealistic notions are the very thing which is holding him back. I read recently that Wenger was so appalled by Arsenal’s 2005 FA Cup win over Man U that he vowed from that day forward never to park the bus again to get a result over style. Now whether or not that is true I don’t know, but it wouldn’t surprise me if it was, and it might explain a lot. So in my view money has little to do with what is currently holding the club back, it’s the manager’s inability to adjust to the current football scene. Another thing you will know having run your own business is that generally speaking the younger people, keen to prove themselves as salesman, are the more dynamic, because they have a hunger and desire for money, plus wanting to carve a career path. Hence it follows a younger football manager like Klopp would I probably achieve a hell of a lot more than Wenger currently does. With Wenger being probably the highest paid manager in world football today, coupled to no pressure from above, he has simply become complacent with an inability to adjust, despite all the evidence pointing that his current philosophy does not and never will win you the PL or CL. For a man who clearly hates losing or being proved wrong it’s baffling to most of us why he won’t take some inspiration from his teams when they were successful. The fact that he doesn’t and won’t is because he wants to be proved right and say “I told you so” even if it takes 30 years for him to possibly speak those words. I genuinely think he wants to have that moment in time again, when during the previous campaign to the invincible season he was ridiculed in the press for suggesting his side could go unbeaten. When they did achieve this incredible feat the following season, you could tell he was more proud of that, than actually winning the PL because his ego is huge. It’s his ego and his constant need to prove everybody else wrong that today is his Achilles heel. Playing central midfielders or forwards out on the wing is just so counterproductive. I personally never had any time for Bendtner, but to play him out on the wing was a good case in point. There are many other players like Arshavin or currently Ozil who is clearly struggling being played out of position. Wenger keeps doing it though, so he can eventually hopefully prove us all wrong! If you or I ran our business like that we would have gone bust years ago, so why is Wenger allowed to continue making these same mistakes year after year after year?

26. jjetplane

    Oct 07, 2014, 12:05 #58783

    Well put BOB though would have substituted 'elephant' with Emu. Also good point LORD FROTH re coming back in two years. If say 30 thou did that then we might have some excitement at the club though would be a headache for whoever deals with the 'petty cash.' Are they really talking to Pulis? Anything on that WESTIE? Questions questions and then is Ronaldo.

27. Unchives

    Oct 07, 2014, 12:01 #58782

    The two favourites for the PL are by far inferior footballing sides to Arsenal. We should have beaten both Citeh & Chelsea. Both games involved poor defending, also much more accomplished and clinical finishing from the opposition, indeed this has been the case for so long. I have no doubt that any other manager would have addressed these problems by now. However for fans to claim on here that we have been blown out of the water by Citeh or Chelski, do not have a clue about football. Our game needs to be more direct but will not change under Wenger. He has already stated that the style will not be changed as its Arsenals marketing tool & brand around the world. So Jamie & all the others that support the manager unconditionally, realise that this is not only what you are endorsing, but propping up for years to come. I would accept a more direct game, as do the other top teams in order to win. The funny thing is, we were more direct when we were winning trophies on a regular basis & with better player. Mouriho said when he first joined Chelsea, Arsenal (Wenger)is trying to win the PL in a different way, but they (He) will not succeed......guess what...unfortunately he may be right.

28. Exeter Gunner

    Oct 07, 2014, 12:01 #58781

    GBP, what mitigates against your argument re: Wenger's contract is last season. No one knew if he was going at the end - including himself it seems, based on the 'if I do well' comments - but the sponsors continued to sign up. he's also told us in the past that he's never broken a contract, and as a proud man he wouldn't want to break that record now, even if we fell out of the CL. '17 years in a row' would just become '17 out of 18' as the line to trot out. The window for his departure was end of last season, he could have walked away in the manner people want for him, with his dignity, his head held up etc, but that moment has passed now. There is just no precedence to suggest he won't see out this contract, and there's every chance, if he still feels robust enough, that he'd sign another and go on into his 70s. I think it'd take a cataclysmic turn of events for him to go early, and even then the decision wouldn't come from Kroenke - he'd be happy enough if Wenger just sold a couple and made up the CL shortfall that way. In fact Kroenke wouldn't mind AFC becoming a midtable club so long as profits were maintained - just look at his US clubs.

29. Lord Froth

    Oct 07, 2014, 11:52 #58780

    Bob - I agree with you and also believe that Wenger's time has come. The point I'm trying to make is that the supporters are in 3 distinct camps of stay, go or don't know. I'm wanting to discuss the team as there's probably another 100 or so games to be played before he goes and that's a lot of football. I like football and personally can't just argue the toss about the manager ad-infinitum and believe that as there's nothing else to be done right now we either find something else to do with our time for a couple of years and come back to Arsenal in the future, or, we discuss the actual football that is still to be played. it's not looking brilliant on the pitch right now but Chelsea are unlikely to not lose a couple of games and we are still capable of flat-track bullying ourselves to some kind of FA cup or an outside chance of a league challenge. There's only 4 points separating 2nd from the chasing pack right now and there's 31 games to be played. We are due to get Walcott back and there's also the January transfer windows so other than the fact that you can repeat your point of wanting the manager out do you really have no interest in the games?

30. Bob

    Oct 07, 2014, 11:35 #58779

    Lord Froth, an increasing number of us consider that too many years have already been wasted waiting for Wenger to either adapt to the modern world or go of his own volition. He cannot do the first and refuses to do the second. There is no point talking about whether Ozil should be in the hole or whether Walcott should be wide right when he returns when the elephant remains in the room. No combination of players we have or are likely to have under this man will make a difference. We will still be blown away by the likes of Chelsea. Why mark time a moment longer waiting for Wenger to go? He should go now.

31. jjetplane

    Oct 07, 2014, 11:11 #58778

    .... and he drove the fastest milk cart in the west.

32. Red Member

    Oct 07, 2014, 10:48 #58777

    Jamie - ever thought that your attitude and the people that sit near you might be a reason why the team underperforms so much? that the club is more than content to take your £2K each season and doesnt have to spend much on players for you to return year after year.

33. Lord Froth

    Oct 07, 2014, 10:46 #58776

    Some of you want Arsene to go and some want him to stay. This discussion has been rumbling on for a few seasons now and there's nothing to be done about it for another couple of seasons. It is what it is. Moving on and discussing the players that we currently have what, if any, changes to ths starting line up do you think need to be made for the next game? Do you think we should stick with 4-3-3 or the new 4-1-4-1? I personally think that ozil could do with a 'rest' for a couple of games. How about Wilshere behind Welbeck with Sanchez and the Ox on the wings and possibly Diaby partnering Flamini?

34. Finsbury Joe

    Oct 07, 2014, 10:13 #58775

    elite medioctity!!!! Come on, Arsenal arent that good! As for the players managing themselves, absolute nonsense. The manager is a control freak, a dictator, a micro manager...who is now getting everything he touches wrong. Do you really think he would let mere footballers go out with the empowerment to think for themselves? We are talking Arsene Wenger, not Brian Clough Thanksfully, fans are waking up to the fact that the club, in the main is owned by, managed by, populated by, and supported by frauds.

35. JAMIE

    Oct 07, 2014, 9:30 #58774

    I've been a season ticket holder since 1988 used to stand in the North Bank now I sit high up in the gods..My season ticket is 2k but I would happily pay more as I really enjoy it and have never been one who only cares about short term success and winning at all costs.To me there's far more to football than just that, talking Arsenal and enjoying the day for me has always been more important and having a good laugh and a few drinks with pals.No wobs where I sit or annoying mobile phones or laptops just proper Gooners who get behind the team win or lose and have every faith in what we're trying to do.All this protesting and trophy counting is just what the modern world wants to get people to think is the most important thing when it isn't.Yes there maybe a time for protesting but now is certainly not the time. Doing things in a way you can be proud of is more important.Arsenal have always been up there challenging doing things right yet you have to respect the competition and the fact we are not the only team with ambitions and if just buying a few key players in certain positions was all that was needed to succeed don't you think everybody would be doing it..

36. Mathew

    Oct 07, 2014, 9:08 #58773

    Agreed Tony, I too don't want to sound disappointing as others here in the forum. A loss is a loss and to be frank, Arsene lost the plot long time before. So lets pray for evitable changes which will bring those glory days back, until then lets rejoice on those wins against minnows.

37. Westlower

    Oct 07, 2014, 9:02 #58772

    Which club would the discontents wish Arsenal to model themselves on? Latest betting from SKYBET on next manager to leave post: Pardew 8/13; Redknapp 11/4; Allardyce 16/1; Pochettino 20/1; Van Gaal 25/1; Martinez 40/1; Rodgers 50/1; Koeman 50/1; Pellegrini 50/1; Maureen 66/1; Wenger 66/1. No change there then?

38. BADARSE

    Oct 07, 2014, 8:44 #58771

    jjetplane, I threw a couple of 'pals' in there too-hesitated, then decided to omit the 'winalot'. Woof, woof!

39. Bard

    Oct 07, 2014, 8:24 #58770

    Heres a stat pinched from the ever loyal but doubting Arseblog. In the last 15 games against Chelsea, Citeh and Unt we havnet won a single game. My view is that we were unlucky in 12 of them, the ref was a disgrace. If Wally had been fit and the ground temperature had been a degree of two warmer we would have smashed them. Guys easy on Jamie, hes a delicate soul in need of suckling and tenderness. Lets make sure us wibbly, wobbly moaning moonies retain our reputation for love and compassion towards those most in need.

40. Ozzie

    Oct 07, 2014, 8:06 #58769

    Quite obvious who is the anointed professional mouthpiece protecting the image of the business from being tarnished by facts.

41. Tony Evans

    Oct 07, 2014, 8:04 #58768

    Matthew - Yes we have (on paper) an easy run of games now, but to me that does not equate to happy times ahead. Yes we may well win most of them, but so what really as all that serves to do is to take the heat off of Wenger yet again. We will be top three for a while, qualify for the last 16 in the CL and then it will all go 'tits up' again as per usual.

42. AMG

    Oct 07, 2014, 8:03 #58767

    So JAMIE is a milkman? You didn't have to daub 'WOBBY' all over my 2 pinter this morning though did you?

43. declan burke

    Oct 07, 2014, 7:43 #58766

    Same old story. Arsenal football club is now seen as a soft touch, of course that has been the case for several seasons now. Here is a club with an amazing history but simply do not really have the ambition to become the best in the land again. Something has to change. The whole demeanour of the club is to settle for what we have, well as a fan since the mid 70's THAT IS UNACCEPTABLE to me.

44. Bard

    Oct 07, 2014, 6:54 #58765

    Baddie, I take that as a post suggesting you want to stick, which is fine by me. What would be interesting is to hear why. I posted a challenge to the sitckers and not one has taken it up all they have done to date is complain about those that want to twist. So once again lets hear from you and the stickers as to why you things to continue.Lets hear about your views on his transfer policy, the reason for the lack of trophies, the year on price increases, the tactics the injiury problems, what going to change. Jamie you sound like a cross between mystic meg and Alf Garnett. I feel you need a lot of attention mate. Im there for you !!!

45. Ozzie

    Oct 07, 2014, 6:53 #58764

    Jamie, you're asking others to get a grip? I suggest you let go of yours for awhile,

46. Mathew

    Oct 07, 2014, 6:44 #58763

    Hull City, Anderlecht, Sunderland, Burnley, Anderlecht, Swansea, ManUtd....Cheer up guys, happy times ahead.

47. WENGER MUST GO ASAP(MARCUS)

    Oct 07, 2014, 3:56 #58762

    Lack of Tactics have a big part in how arsenal play but for me it's more about lack of quality in certain positions. How many players from our first team would start for Chelsea or man city??? The answer is zero right now. I have looked at szecney and for me he's a poor goal keeper. He's ego is way out it's actually embarrassing. He's error prone and is reckless for me. He's lack of concentration is telling. He would be Chelsea's 3 goal keeper that is a fact. Not one our back four would start for Chelsea or man city maybe some for man city. We just lack quality big time and the right type of players. We have to many weaklings who gave no fight and for how long has that been said about arsenal??? We'll 10 years right smh no fight, weak, physically inept etc. why is Wenger obsessed with a certain type of player?? The man has lost the plot. Are you trying to tell me there are not better players than arteta or flamini?? It just baffles me. This club is being held back. Just tired of it. I will always support arsenal not one man or player. We need to move on. Klopp or siemone would be my ideal targets. They are cut from a different cloth from Wenger for me. They both won't tolerate weak inept performances. They also will buy the necessary quality needed. My dream is for Wenger to go and Usmanov to buy the club and kronke to never be seen at the emirates as owner of arsenal

48. ljb

    Oct 07, 2014, 3:20 #58761

    Mark, the 3 mill Kroenke took is a backdoor dividend,paid only to himself and no other shareholders and far in excess of the amount that would be legitimately paid as a dividend given the relatively small amounts of profits made by Arsenal in the past year.

49. Man United Killer

    Oct 07, 2014, 1:32 #58760

    maguiresbridge gooner...could not stop laughing at your post 62008.Nice one!

50. Man United Killer

    Oct 07, 2014, 1:04 #58759

    GBP...Excuses excuses excuses that in the end make no sense.You say that the club is preparing the club financially for the next manager.We have been hearing the "we have money to spend" story a couple of year now.If we have the money to spend now and he was paving the way for his successor why did Wenger sign a new contract? The is life after Wenger and I CANT WAIT!

51. GoonerRon

    Oct 07, 2014, 0:34 #58758

    I'm not for a second saying there is a conspiracy but we have had a player on the end of two shocking tackles within 5 days and neither perpetrator was sent off. In the Chelsea game had Cahill been given a red card at 0-0 they would have had to bring on Zouma or Luis and most likely would have sacrificed Schurrle or Oscar. At that point in time we would have a man advantage in midfield and it would have been unlikely that Hazard would have been afforded the space he was for the opener. It's cause and effect. Usually, one such decision might not make that much difference but in a game that was very even up until that point (and where chances continued to be at a premium for the whole match), it was an absolutely pivotal moment that went against us.

52. AMG

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:53 #58757

    Fair enough Rocky, I respect your views even if I choose to place myself firmly in the WWOAGMBNHPI (Wenger was once a great manager but now he's past it) camp.

53. GG89

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:47 #58756

    I´m bored bored bored, We can report AW´s mental health issues to the health service, maybe we can get him commited. That´s how bored I feel. ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Is Bruce Rioch still active? Where´s my plastic water bottle? Its **** being a gooner these days.

54. Why have we only got 6 defenders?

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:42 #58755

    GBP- Thanks, but apart from the words 'the agenda is to ease Arsene aside', your post is full of reasons why exactly the opposite will happen, especially the mention of a lack of ambition. Assuming you are aware that the stadium debt won't be paid off until 2031, when do you reckon we can anticipate seriously challenging for the big trophies again on an occasional basis?

55. John Gage

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:30 #58754

    Could simple human nature provide an explanation? I do not believe that a coach who has won trophies and titles like Arsene Wenger has suddenly been transformed into a bad coach. But after 18 years in charge I think it is difficult for you to sustain your hunger, ruthlessness and determination to succeed unless you are a pathological winner like Sir Alex Ferguson. What has happened is that Wenger has become comfortable in his job and the new coaches coming into the Premiership such as Mourinho, Koeman, Pochettino are of a higher standard then before and have newer tactics, better ideas, and simply more drive and hunger than Wenger. The strategy that the board is going for is stability (qualification for CL) and to see out Wenger before selecting a younger coach who will have the drive and motivation to again try to compete with the best clubs in the Premiership.

56. Hiccup

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:24 #58753

    Nice of GBP's Customer Complaints Dept to get back to me. Yes, looks like you've modelled your 'business' in the style of arsenal.

57. andy1886

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:22 #58752

    Just to add some actual figures from our latest financial report (rather than make sweeping statements with zero supporting evidence) match day revenues were £100.2 million last season, that's twice the amount generated at Highbury. Take into account the £19 million on financing the Emirates Stadium (£12 million interest plus £7 million on debt repayments) and that's a net increase in revenue of £31.2 million per season. Thing is we're not repaying the stadium early, there's a fixed repayments schedule that we would have to renegotiate to do that. So any claim that we're financially handicapped by the 'new' stadium is completely wrong, in fact the opposite is true.

58. jjetplane

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:16 #58751

    BADARSE referring to people as dog food (chum) is hardly consistent with your vision of yourself as 'the gentleman on the fence.' Very lively on here as though we were witnessing some regime in its last days. Funny old world - looks like GBP has dropped the valium for something speedier. Speaking of Walcott - what's the latest on Diaby, Keown, Stevie Bould, Podolski, house prices in Denver ... etc ...... Nice **** Exeter Gooner - used to watch Exeter for a while Happy days.

59. JAMIE

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:05 #58750

    The wobs are a boring bunch of wind bags at the best of times.They seem to float between bloody annoyed and discontent for their entire existence of watching Arsenal.I bet they're all stuck in mundane jobs where they have to slave all day probably listening to fans of other teams and thinking they're hard done by when they're not.I work for myself and most days except for a couple of months in the year I'm finished by 11am.I then take it easy and enjoy my time off,I certainly don't worry about Arsenal or what rival fans say to me as I'm far to quick and knowledgeable for any of those dimwits.Some of you fans need to get a grip enjoy what Arsenal is and have more faith in what they are doing,I don't think you'll find many are doing it better.

60. GBP

    Oct 06, 2014, 23:00 #58749

    Hiccup - as usual your post isnt worth dignifying with a reply. In my view youre a mindless,unintelligent idiot of the worst kind and shameless enough to display it each day as you foster and encourage your little band of followers. Carry on though as it clearly makes you feel good.

61. andy1886

    Oct 06, 2014, 22:53 #58748

    Some fair and reasonable points there GBP but I'm always curious to know why the stadium build is portrayed as such a financial liability for so long when in fact the increased revenues generated far more money than the costs on an annual basis after just a few short years? As for the property development sure they didn't realise the sums originally expected BUT they certainly did generate significant income nontheless, hardly dark days in any respect. Arsene didn't perform any miracles, based on our financial performance and taking into account artificial investment in other clubs Arsene has typically taken us to where you would expect to be. Par for the course you could say, no more no less. As for our dear BoD their contempt has been plain for years. Thanks for your interest in our affairs indeed, in any other business these people wouldn't have a single customer left, let alone a long waiting list for their 'product'.

62. BADARSE

    Oct 06, 2014, 22:53 #58747

    Bard, you need a wider perspective chum. If I don't want to join your lynch mob then I am a fence-sitter. If I am a fence-sitter, I am the main fence-sitter, with no room for anyone else. Discerned from what sort of an analysis? If those sharing roughly a similar view to you account for 80-90% on this website there is little to discuss. Those posters just want to denigrate the manager. I don't really care whether the attacks come from well-thought out observations of his perceived weaknesses, crazies, or those with a Neanderthal outlook, they amount to the same thing, an attack. If a person doesn't agree that it's time to head to the gallows with Arsene, then he is a fence-sitter. Wow! Hope the potatoes were salted tonight.

63. GBP

    Oct 06, 2014, 22:49 #58746

    Why have we ....You sod ha. The transfer policy is a surgical one as read it. As oppose to a wholesale one. Some might say, they stick plaster on where a bandage is needed and worse, avoid surgery where they can when really the knife is needed.I think fans are right to say it lacks intent and ambition at times. We balance books when we buy. Look at the net effect of the Ozil and Sanchez buys. We broke it out evenly when sales and wages off the bill have been balanced vis the cost of the purchases. Its the only way where theres a sizeable debt to service at the same time.Some say it lacks ambition. i say it makes sense to limit the ambition for now. From a business view as the debt falls the share value goes up. Their will be a flotation soon enough on the wider markets at Arsenal and to raise real funding they ll need it. Even if they dont go that way, they still need a clean debit column to attract investment or to attract future buyers with bigger pockets and bigger ambitions. This is why we arent going to pop out and do what Man U are doing and even in their case, their purchases are as wedded to eternal commercial ambitions as much as they are to re building Fergies tired old squad. AFC dont have that business culture or the need to do that. AFC want that stadium paid off mate. Whatever theyve stocked in cash reserves isnt going to go on players to any great extent. Such has been the fine lines theyve trodden for so long there esp during the recession, they need 'rainy day' cash. Wages are spiraling, costs of business are massive and profits of the Club have fallen in the last 2 years so the fabled 170 Million there isnt really a lot of money. The 3 year contract of Wengers is window dressing as i see it. Its an outward display of faith and stability that looks good, while the agenda is to ease Arsene aside in that period seamlessly. A short contract wd have given a message that hes not there for long. You whove lost faith in the notion that players sign for him as much as Arsenal are wrong. They do sign to work under AW and a 3 year contract looks good to potential players but more importantly to sponsors who can make or break a Club these days. The best companys want a stable look to the business theyre putting cash into. This is why your Toons and Co take sponsorships from fly by night backers. They cant convince the better ones to touch them with a bargepole. Its keeping Pardew in a job for eg! I cant soothe you ha. You pays your money and makes your choice. Ive made mine. Id love some real glory but accept its not coming just yet.

64. Hiccup

    Oct 06, 2014, 22:24 #58745

    Once again GBP, all you are doing is acknowledging and complimenting that the club has made false promises and ripped the fans off in the process. What kind of businessman are you? Do your suppliers promise to deliver quality goods and then send shabby rubbish. Do you applaud them for that? Or after ten years of buying crap your supplier says well actually we've been fleecing you but are going to start providing a better quality now. So you sign up another contract, swallowing more of their bull? Or are you just a crook yourself? Taken a leaf out of arsenal's book and make false promises to your customers, and then tell them to stop complaining because they should have known you couldn't deliver what you promise?

65. Why have we only got 6 defenders?

    Oct 06, 2014, 22:22 #58744

    GBP- Could you please explain precisely what it is about the club's transfer policy and what Wenger and the club are saying and doing that has enabled you to read between the lines and surmise that Wenger will not be seeing out the full 3 years of his contract, as I was under the assumption that the club had entered calmer financial waters long before Wenger signed his new deal. I need to read some comforting words in these dark days, and your expertise could provide them.

66. Rocky RIP

    Oct 06, 2014, 22:01 #58742

    @ GBP - an excellent sense of perspective displayed there. The bigger picture taken into account, whilst acknowledging the frustrations we all share and the way the club has handled the fans' expectations poorly. (In fact, selling them a dream, when brutal, honest, economic realism would be more appropriate and respectful.)

67. Colmandmax

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:57 #58741

    Boring Boring Arsenal We could have played for hours and not scored

68. GBP

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:49 #58740

    Bard - Yes, ive ran my business for 30 odd years and through some pretty lousy times too. Nothing to the scale of AFC of course. I know nor have any angle on how they set ticket prices and as for wage bills, ive never constructed a wage structure for such as PL footballers!! I also think that nobody on here has either and knows equally as little. I cd take a stab at understanding and comment on it but to what purpose?As for the failure to beat top 4 teams. Its quite simple. They've been consistently better than us for 5 or 6 years. Whats more, the likelihood is that it isnt going to change in the short term. You lads say we are only looking to stay top 4. I think youre right. Where we differ is that i can accept it for now as ive accepted it for 10 years. Well informed people said to me back in 1999/2000 time when plans were hatched to move that Arsenal could fall to depths lower than we could or would want to imagine. Others said forget trophies for 15-20 years and then were even blacker at the time Dein declared Chelsea had parked their tanks on our lawn etc etc. Whats more there was a mindset within the Club among some that the Club were plummeting (2005/06 time). Real concerns that were only worsened when the property market collapsed and credit crunch arrived in 2008. The Clubs plan to reach recovery has been curtailed for roughly 4 years to my albeit limited knowledge yet here we are, the debt spiraling down and still top 4 (yes, certainly we ve winged it to stay there but we ve done it nontheless. Arsenes done it. Im happy to let the Board manage change and respect what they've done. As a business bloke i think its amazing what theyve done in such a short time. Ive only had to manage small lock stock and barrel business movements to other premises and even on my humble scale, its a bloody nightmare. With my fans hat on, i get annoyed and exasperated as you do, but in the wider picture for Arsenal, we re doing great right now. Not where we want to be but we re OK. They ll have my backing for the short to medium term. I cant promise they ll keep it, but now isn't the time for the lynch mobs and scapegoating demonstrated on here every day. Its disgusting to be honest. The Club should level with fans more. They should give a better understanding. Theyve not managed fans very well at all. Theyve been scared to in my view. Theyve ran with their ball and hoped fans would stay calm. For those with no agendas but what they see on the pitch, they've been disrespectful in my view. Youve said as much. Theyve not wanted to display anything but confidence in their plan. I can understand thatand its fine for normal business to do that. For a football Club though where your customer invests lives and emotional attachments to the business, its the wrong way and in years to come i think AFC will look back and admit they havent managed expectations very well, hence the angst you see on here.

69. Westlower

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:21 #58738

    @Bard, Is it your wish that Walcott joins the ever growing list of AFC personnel to be culled? Some of you seem to think the club doesn't need SK, IG, AW & any player currently out of favour. Let's give the fans more power and morph into Newcastle United. Mike Ashley, Joe Kinnear, Alan Pardew showed the world how it can be done with a bit of class & a far sighted owner. How about asking Mr Tan to come in and change our colours to lilywhite? Time to kick start the revolution and head to mid table where we deserve to be. Prediction: Looking at our fixtures I fully expect AFC to be on 40+ points by the end of the year. CFC & Man City will battle it out for top spot but there's every reason to believe we can finish 3rd.

70. Rocky RIP

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:20 #58737

    @ Bard - fair point. Nothing ever changes with fence-sitters like me, but I was accused of lacking perspective. (I was also unaware that it was a Scottish referendum style vote on Wenger and decision time. I know something needs to change at our club though. Hence why I'm a BSM member.) I'd say the most balanced, reasonable, fans in this whole messy debate are the fence sitters. And our number is much, much bigger than you realise too. Unfortunately if you defend Wenger from the daily dog's abuse on here, someone confuses you with an AKB. You are more likely to get shot down in flames on an Arsenal fans' forum for saying something positive about the manager than literally anything else. This is what it's come to.

71. Bard

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:17 #58736

    GBP is that supposed to be a post for the status quo or a fantasy post. I have no problem acknowledging what he has done. The question is stick or twist. Your view is that the twist is in progress but its pure speculation. What weakens your argument is that you make all sorts of assumptions about the posters. They know nothing of business finance but presumably you do. This is variation on the you haven't worked a day in football argument. In the end mate sorry it descends in to a rant. i have read nothing in your post that addresses transfers, tactics, inability to beat anyone on the top 4, ticket prices, wage bills etc etc.

72. andy1886

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:08 #58735

    Wow, it was the refs fault obviously, how did I miss that? You must be refering to his failure to send of Kos for denying a clear goals scoring opportunity, and Chambers for a second yellow, and of course Welbeck for serious foul play, no? Oh, you missed those, silly me. Yes the ref was poor, for both sides if you take the blinkers off. Worth noting what Arsene himself said, that financial firepower in the form on Hazard and Costa made the difference. Shame no-one had the balls to ask him why £30m Hazard and £32m Costa were able to make the difference when £42m Ozil and £35m Sanchez couldn't. I guess some people DO learn. In this case how to make excuses, a lesson they obviously picked up from some of the joke statements of their glorious leader (maybe it was the grass again?).

73. Matthew Bazell

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:07 #58734

    I thought Chelsea were strolling it yesterday. How people can see positives is beyond because we hardly created one single clear cut goal scoring chance. We gave everything yet could not get behind them. £170 mill lying in the bank! Enough said.

74. Bard

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:06 #58733

    Rocky; admirable but impossible mate. Seeing both sides and not making a decision is called sitting on the fence which is the embodiment of nothingness. Nobody ever did anything or made a difference by sitting on the fence. All you do is avoid flak and responsibility. Do you think we should stick or twist or can't you make up your mind? Grow a pair mate. Besides Baddie has the sitting on the fence position his own so you'll have to fight him for it.

75. John A

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:04 #58732

    I loved Gladiator when it first came out in 2000.I made the point of watching it many times in the first few months. After that I made a point of watching it just once or twice a year so that it didn't lose its appeal. Years later I haven't watched it all the way through for 5 years I tend to dip in and out just to see the action bits. I feel the same about AFC they were very good, they became sometimes good and now they are only good against poor teams so they have lost my interest.The product is now stale and overpriced. You can put Gladiator onto blue ray but it's still the same film that was on video then DVD. It just costs more. Alas.

76. GBP

    Oct 06, 2014, 21:01 #58731

    Bard/ Exeter G - Many of us, me inc have said for a long time theres a case for Wenger to be phased out. If you read theirs and my posts any thing but selectively, you would know that ive long had the opinion that both Wenger and the Club are in harmony on that point, that AW wont see out the full 3 years of his contract and that he and the Club want a seamless transition in which Wenger might/might not play a part in shaping. The big issue that i take up is with those who want him gone NOW. Its not going to happen. Shouldn't happen and that it wont is because there's simply no justification for it. I agree that my view is just a theory but its shaped by the transfer policy we have, by what Wenger says and does and by what the Board do and say. Its a reading between the lines if you like. Essentially Arsenal in my opinion want the Club is calmer waters financially before they invite in a new Coach. I believe they do want a top calibre man to replace Arsene and will secure a top man but to have that top man, they dont want to invite him in and ask him to work with one arm up his back as AW has had to do for so long. Its called business planning. Arsenal are lucky and privileged to have the time to do it. They've earned the time as Arsene Wenger has managed us superbly and not allowed the team to crumble to the disarray that Ferguson did at Utd, hes kept us viable commercially by our exploits on the pitch. Hes kept us top 4 which has enabled us to attract the business sponsorship deals that we didn't negotiate first time around when understandably mistakes were made by the then commercial director. Those who would sack a man at this point in time, who has steered the ship through that minefield are mindless fools who have no business sense and who blindly undervalue what we ve got and where we are and all because a few defeats were bad ones and we ve missed out on a few extra Cups. The last 10 years have been about managing change, not winning Cups for idiot fans who can see no further than mere footballing credibility. The league is full of Clubs who've moved stadium and then disappeared down a footballing and financial black hole. Arsenal and Wenger should be congratulated for doing what we ve done and for nearly completing the process on our terms. The Coach and the Board deserve a bit more respect than the loons on here are prepared to give who want a man sacked for doing little wrong. You can have a go at me for lambasting some posters on here for being clearly the types who dont run businesses as much as you want. Its water off a ducks back, but its a view shaped by the ill informed rubbish i see posted by many who wouldn't know how to manage cash flow and capital expenditure if it was spelled out in braille and stuck up their arses. Wenger, whether you like it or not is a key member of staff. Hes that way because hes had to live with the pitfalls of cash constraint and understand it. Such people do not get treated like dogs in a large, small or medium sized business, UNLESS they make massive irreparable mistakes.AW hasn't done that. Only in the eyes of fools who see football as it was 30, even 20 years ago as detached from commercial realities has he fallen short. When i go to that ground to see our very flawed but decent team i thank them for not bowing to the mindless few such as many on here who would have the Club in a mess, all for a bit of short term glory. If some of you cant see this go and join and follow a board games Club where money has no value and failure has no cost. Arsenal arent failing and neither is Wenger. Im proud of the Club, even when are getting tonked in the odd insignificant 90 mins, in the greater scheme of things. Grow up and stop talking like spoiled kids. Success will come, its coming. Look deeper, remove your anti Wenger blinkers and you can see it.

77. Rocky RIP

    Oct 06, 2014, 20:50 #58730

    @ AMG - 'to you he's the embodiment of the devil' - really? Where did I say that? I just don't like him as a human being or a media 'character'. Being told drivel like, 'one thing's for sure, life is never dull when Jose is around' is the sort of dumbed down, unintelligent codswallop fed to us by the media. To your point that players love him, yes maybe some do, but plenty do not eg. The Real Madrid ones who fell out with him. Also, I have plenty of perspective, thanks. Hence why I've not bitterly encamped in either the AMG or WOB camp. I can step back and see both sides with circumspection. I just find it sad that it's come to the point where our fans are so against our own manager that they are leaping to the defence of the Chelsea manager over our own one. Whatever I think of any Arsenal manager, it'd be over my dead body that I'd defend the opposite number of our sworn enemy. He may be an infuriating, baffling stubborn, clumsy, sleeping bag-wearing old man, but he's OUR infuriating, baffling, stubborn, clumsy, sleeping bag wearing old man. If any Chelsea manager insults him continually in press conferences he frankly deserves a shove. And a wet kipper to the face.

78. JAMIE

    Oct 06, 2014, 20:36 #58729

    I don't know whether the wobs really care if Arsenal win or not,the majority of them I have met tend to be either JCL's or vacation killers.

79. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 06, 2014, 20:01 #58728

    Hiccup,62007 great point, yes you can just imagine if it had been the other way round what they'd have been calling Maureen, and calling for, and demanding from the FA, and not waiting until the next day to do it either, but of course it was their messiah who showed and demonstrated no class in doing it, (so much for dignity and doing things the right way) so of course it was all right.

80. Colonel Chunda

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:59 #58727

    We did have 2 shots on target yesterday - one when Cesc saved it with his hands in the box (ref gave a corner) and Poldi right at the end..ref was awful yesterday - different game if Cahill goes at 0-0 but Atkinson bottled it like they all do

81. Exeter Gunner

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:59 #58726

    GBP: "they simply don't persuade, they display childish impatience and stroppiness" Some do (on both sides) some give cogent arguments (see the very article you're posting under - see the title alone). You've just proved my point - you don't see that "some thing better" has already been managed. "youre included in the refusal to accept the views of those of us who don't want the boss sacked" - where do you get that from in my post? And I don't know who expects the 'calibre of men' to sit down and sack Wenger - I certainly don't, that's totally unrealistic. The point is there is a case for him not continuing, and has been for a while. "There is no respect for that view on here yet you ask for it in return?" - No, I'd suggest you stop playing the man ('oafs' and suchlike 'broad bush' remarks that you've previously taken umbrage to yourself, as it makes you look a hypocrite), and focus on the ball.

82. Bard

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:55 #58725

    Lots of really good posts on here today. I think the arguments reflect the frustrations we are all feeling about the way forward. Do we stick or twist ? What the site could do with is a well argued article about why we should stick with Wenger. Currently the only coherent ish argument for sticking with him is he's a good bloke, who won loads of trophies 10.years ago and who else could remotely replace him. None of those are ringing endorsements to my mind but I'm open to thinking about it in a different way. GBP. Mate I'm all for different points of view but it's always worth reading other posts before posting. There have been a ton of articles and posts detailing criticisms of the current regime. You seem to have mental blank or else you don't read them. Westie you know I'm always a fan of your enthusiasm but don't you think the notion that Wally's return will provide the missing link is a bit far fetched. I don't remember him being more than an inconsistent performer when he was fit. Grasping at straws comes to mind.

83. Why have we only got 6 defenders?

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:51 #58724

    BADARSE- From the predictable tweeness of your first few words I'm guessing that was meant as some kind of response to my post, but as for months I haven't been able to read beyond the first couple of lines of any of your posts, I am only guessing.

84. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:20 #58723

    Exeter Gunner, you've won the invisible fourth place trophy (soon to be down graded to fifth) for post of the day.

85. BADARSE

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:15 #58722

    Am very snugly at the moment. Have my hot water bottle on my lap, and my ear muffs on, (the red and white ones, not the blue and yellow). Cup of Horlicks being stirred for me, ah, bliss. So secure and safe, my 'back to the womb' moment-and it's very comforting Why Have I Only, excuse me a minute, 'Nurse! Oh, nursey! Nursey, nurse! My bed socks are on the wrong feet, can you change them for me please? They are. Oh yes they are. How do I know? Because I trod on my jam sandwich yesterday, and the jam has gone from the right to the left sock. That's how I know. Eh? You what? I can't hear you, I've got my ear muffs on. I can't help my PJ's popping open, can I? No I can't. They always do that when I'm sitting down and try to reach my bed socks. Don't ask me anything more. Why? You know why. I don't like being tested, I want to feel secure and untroubled. What day is it?'

86. AMG

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:14 #58721

    Rocky - many of the things you levelled at Mourinho could easily be thrown straight back at Wenger with interest. Ok Wenger knows how to tie a tie (vital for a football manager), but I'd much rather have an untied tie over that f'ing sleeping bag. The truth is they both reside somewhere in a grey middle ground of unscrupulousness. If you dig beneath the surface of Mourinho's obnoxious exterior, you will find a charming family man, who's loved by many of his players and whose fans worship the ground he walks on, but to you he's the embodiment of the devil - Have a little perspective. Nothing should be read into Wenger and Mourinho's pushing match, it was daftness beyond comparison, like going into a season with 6 defenders. Much as it pains me to say it, all of this infighting is completely pointless as Wenger will be going nowhere for another 3 years at least. The stadium will continue to be filled with enough tourists and sheep to keep the money rolling in, unless people are willing to make the atmosphere at the Emirates as ugly as Luke Chadwick, then sadly GBP is correct in that we simply won't be heard. That said, the tide seems to be turning as pundits are finding less and less resistance to their open criticisms of Wenger. All of them will stop short of calling for his head of course as that's considered a big TV no no - The pressure is building, but nothing is likely to change.

87. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:08 #58720

    Hiccup, rent a mob? doubt it, expect the moderator on warning of multiple posts from the same addresses.

88. GBP

    Oct 06, 2014, 19:08 #58719

    Thats just it Exeter G, they simply don't persuade, they display childish impatience and stroppiness and youre included in the refusal to accept the views of those of us who don't want the boss sacked. There s no respect for that view on here yet you ask for it in return? Cant be right can it? To make the conundrum easier for you, can you conceive of any conventionally ran Club in the modern game sacking a man who s just won a major trophy and consistently places us in the top 4? Better still can you provide an example of one doing it? Nobody has to convince me personally, youre quite right, but then this row of AW was sown well before my time on here and the agenda wasnt set by me. Im just joining in and trying to find a rationale where the calibre of men who run Arsenal would one day sit down and all agree to sack Arsene Wenger based on what the Club is, where it is and where they see it going from this point? Can you help me out and answer that please? Full respect if you can do better than all of these better posters are managing. Just one condition though. Can you manage some thing better than 'the Board are all hopeless' and 'IG is this that and the other' and 'SK s wig looks bizarre' and 'they know nothing of football' etc etc and the usual garbage? Id appreciate it if you could please. Many thanks.

89. Hiccup

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:32 #58718

    Rocky, I don't hate or dislike mourinho. I quite like the confidence he gives off, and if he was announced as the Arsenal manager I wouldn't take the moral high ground. As for the touchline incident, I admit I chuckled. But then when mourinho called wenger a specialist in failure I couldn't understand why so many arsenal fans got so riled about that either? I just know that those same fans would have been up in arms if mourinho had been pushing wenger about yesterday.

90. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:29 #58716

    It's good to know when the chavs only beat us 1-0 next time it'll be more progress, then next season (assuming we're not drawn it the FA Cup this season) if it's 0-0 even more progress, the season after that a score draw and yet more progress, you couldn't make it up, oh wait some already have.

91. Man United Killer

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:25 #58715

    JAMIE, Cesc Fabregas was happy to join Chelsea because of people like you who blindly hop on and support the Arsene Wenger Bandwagon of mediocrity.Players want to win trophies.End of.I bet Cesc was happy Wenger did not want him.Afterall he was not going to win anything at under him.Do you think Cesc will choose joining Arsenal and scraping fourth every season or choose Chelsea and genuinely contend for the title?Your guess is as good as anyone's. The lad is clearly enjoying his football. Like it or not there is life after Wenger and I CAN'T WAIT!

92. Rocky RIP

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:19 #58714

    @ Hiccup - a question for you: disregarding the man's clear success as a manager, do you like Mourinho? The self-proclaimed 'special one'. The classless, arrogant, egotistical, attention-seeking scruff who is incapable of doing his tie up properly or having digs. The man who poked Tito Vilanova in the eye. Some find him funny and 'pure box office'. Not for me. He manages to make the spectacle all about him, drawing the cameras on him whenever possible, which I find tacky. If you like him, there isn't much I can do. He represents a lot of what I find distasteful about modern football. If you don't like him, then would a small part of you have enjoyed another manager harmlessly shoving him? In which case, is it only Wenger shoving him that you don't approve of? Just wondering.

93. Hiccup

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:18 #58713

    jj, you get a feel for what you're up against on here. How some of these manage to get up and dress themselves I'm starting to wonder.

94. Why have we only got 6 defenders?

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:14 #58712

    Ian, the point of Arsenal under Arsene Wenger these days is so that GBP, BADARSE, Westlower and many like them can continue to experience that warm, cosy, safe and not-too-ambitious feeling of still having the urbane Mr Wenger in charge of their football team. What we do in the present and the future matters not, it's all about the past as far as they're concerned, and the distant past was good, which is why their man should continue to be paid £8m a year of our hard earned season ticket money until HE decides otherwise. Just as Wenger never gives up on a player no matter how crap or injury prone they are, so do the 3 wise men on here re their manager no matter how many more years we go without seriously challenging (that's all we're really asking for) for any trophy that actually matters. They know deep down that he should have gone years ago but they don't want to get their hands dirty pushing for change as their delicate consciences can't bear the thought of having to admit in 10-15 years time that they turned against The Great Man towards the end, and of course as a direct consequence we're left with a shiny new megabucks contract that any top manager in world football would have been very happy to sign, and 3 more years of the same old rubbish. For what we're about to receive, you guys can take all the credit.

95. Hiccup

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:06 #58711

    Baddie, good question. After our emphatic win over Crystal Palace I think I went in to hiding. When we beat Villa I had an appointment at the anger management clinic. When we play Hull, I think I may be out the country that weekend.

96. jjetplane

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:04 #58710

    Oh HICCUP such a glutton for punishment. And that's my last post. Might be back after tea.

97. Kerching

    Oct 06, 2014, 18:04 #58709

    This is where Wenger has taken us to a place where the AKB's in defence of their clueless leader put up the excuse that at least we didnt lose 6-0 this season.Now AKB's explain the no shots in 90 mins

98. maguiresbridge gooner

    Oct 06, 2014, 17:52 #58708

    Good to see the electricity was repaired good and early this morning, if only someone could make the necessary repairs so quickly at Arsenal.

99. Hiccup

    Oct 06, 2014, 17:47 #58707

    MG, wenger's antics on the touchline is so symptomatic of his followers. All born out of frustration, paralysed to do anything tactically against mourinho, wenger loses self control. Just like the clowns on here, when asked to present facts, start embarrassing themselves with Wibble wobble waffle. Listening to the AKB's is just as cringeworthy as watching wenger make a spectacle of himself with the 4th official every game. I ask this though. The AKB's seem proud of what wenger did to mourinho yesterday? Had it been the other way round and mourinho walking over to wenger and pushing him, they'd have been bursting with rage and asking for mourinho to be arrested and charged. But it's nothing less than you'd expect from such blinkered embarrassments.

100. GoonGer

     Oct 06, 2014, 17:43 #58706

     I was at that rubbish yesterday!! All the way from Glasgow!! Forget the stays v Moanrinwhore!! How's this troops!!played 12 this season Won-4 Drew-5 Lost- 3 disgraceful!! Not one shot on target yesterday!!

101. BADARSE

     Oct 06, 2014, 17:43 #58705

     Hiccup, praise? Well, after a fashion. You mention numbers, I often wonder if the status quo was reversed how some might fare. I allude of course to the 'Heroes of Berks( get my Drift). Heavily outnumbered, bloodied and ragged, but refusing to bend a knee to any man-all except westlower who is ready to burst into song at the drop of an Armoury 'goody bag'. Just imagine you and two or three others being in the minority after an Arsenal victory, would we ever see another post? You can work that one out. 'Can you hear the people sing?', Excuse me, that's my cue for another duet.

102. Exeter Gunner

     Oct 06, 2014, 17:42 #58704

     GBP, isn't it time you gave it a rest with the 'there is no case against' angle? The case is daily paraded in front of your eyes by the better posters on here, but of course you're not going to see it, of course you're not going to be convinced no matter what anyone says - you don't want to be convinced, you don't want to see it. I wouldn't imagine anyone is trying to convince you in particular either - you're no more important than the strangers you keep belittling with regard to their business acumen and IQ whilst knowing absolutely nothing about them. They're just giving their view. What's even more embarrassing for you however is not seeing what Hiccup was up to last week. Thought you were a bit sharper than that. Maybe BADARSE should explain it to you - you seem to pay attention to him.

103. maguiresbridge gooner

     Oct 06, 2014, 17:12 #58702

     Off course nothing has changed Ian and was never going to and never will, but a lot of fans have known and knew that already, some still live in hope though (more fools them)we're still as far off now as we were seven, eight, nine years ago and that's the way it will stay until old Mr bumble walks or is removed, and the sooner the better and we don't as you say have to put him for three more years. As the embarrassment on the touchline yesterday showed (a sacking offence in itself) the pressure is really getting to him and so maybe we won't have to wait three more years to get rid and he'll do the decent think sooner rather than later. Good Article.

104. GBP

     Oct 06, 2014, 17:12 #58701

     Come now Hiccup. No pats on backs wanted. Its enough to know that we re managed by one of the most respected coaches in Europe and all but a handful of oafs on a web site recognise it. Its no effort at all to back Wenger's tenure as there s no case that exists being advanced against it by anybody that matters. Talking of 'fights', i thought you had set a good eg and quit the other week? You earned some respect by walking away from a futile situation yet here you are again, like a punch drunk boxer in need of one last fight

105. jjetplane

     Oct 06, 2014, 16:58 #58700

     Good post BADDiE but the 'manager's head'? We just want the beak and feathers. HICCUP Bruce and Poyet sounds worrying when you write them down. How level are playing fields exactly? Come on you ACKIES!

106. Hiccup

     Oct 06, 2014, 16:37 #58699

     The AKB's are putting up a better fight than they did this time last week. Even gone to the effort of hiring rent-a-crowd to boost their numbers and at least make sure they were represented today. You can draw similar comparisons of the AKB's with arsenal's performances against Chelsea. Absolutely humiliated first time round, but second time round huffed and puffed but still fell well short. Still the same bluster and waffle, but pat yourselves on the back for a valiant effort. Winnable games against Hull and Sunderland coming up. Thank God for all this dross we can beat to still prove wenger is a winner.

107. BADARSE

     Oct 06, 2014, 16:19 #58697

     Game as I saw it. We set up with no intention of doing a cavalry charge. Chelsea sat deep as we dominated possession. Quite clear within ten minutes that only a piece of outrageous fortune, or blissful skill would open the door to this game. They had the first with Cahill remaining on the pitch and the second by courtesy of a sublime young player, Hazard. The second half meant one thing, to play patiently, and try to find an opening-to go gung ho would as likely as not end in suicide, the Chelsea players are that good. The ability to soak up pressure-their solid defence, find a killer pass-Fabregas, and to finish well-Costa, was always likely. We had a few half chances, had a toe poke touched the ball over the line we'd have achieved the game plan's intentions-rescuing a lost game. At 0-0 in the first half you want to win, at 0-1 in the second, you want to save the game. That it didn't is reason to be disappointed. To once again, go hell for leather, wanting the manager's head is embarrassing.

108. GBP

     Oct 06, 2014, 16:10 #58696

     jetplane - Read your post back to yourself. Youre the foot stomper. ill happily change my position on Wenger as soon as you let me have a convincing argument to justify it. If there was one im sure the media would be trotting it out instead of leaving it to you clueless lot. In the meantime im happy to let the FAC Winners and CL contestants state my case.Its self evident and doesn't need spelling out to anyone who possesses half a brain or yes, to anyone 'who has spent half a day in football'.

109. David

     Oct 06, 2014, 15:56 #58695

     @WENGER MUST GO ASAP(MARCUS)- I teach maths - just had a sixth form group, and spoke to one of my students - an Arsenal fan - after the lesson. I asked him: Do you think that AW should go. To which he looked back at me with horror in his eyes and said: 'You're joking! He's our Alex Ferguson.'The AKB thing is a sort of brainwashing.

110. jjetplane

     Oct 06, 2014, 15:54 #58694

     Come now GBP you little foot stamper. Did not say Sam or Pulis are the men to lead Arsenal though I reckon we would have a better season with Sam and his Song and possibly their supporters. Remember West Ham are an ambitious club who in three years time may well be above Arsene FC in the ratings. That also goes for the Spuds, Scousers, Saints which makes Arsenal an 7/8th placed club with a yawning big arena and a lot of unhappy, overpaid players and the most expensive tickets this side of Covent Garden. You are the one looking desperate though I wonder sometimes how sincere you and your minute unit are. It does not sound very persuasive and yes, as about as dull as those downers you keep going on about. Ps Martin Keown .....

111. The Stats Man

     Oct 06, 2014, 15:53 #58693

     Mark, you are correct we are catching up with the likes of Chelsea. I have run the relevant fixture results for the last 10 years through my patented software (without giving too much away its based on gauge theory and Gaussian distributions all piped through a moving average median filter) and I get the following results. Within the next 10.5 to 12.5 years (margin of error 0.5%) we should be challenging regularly for 2nd place. Unfortunately for first place this appears in the region of 15 to 20 years, Nevertheless this does point to the fact that we should be challenging for top honors again within the life times of a fair percentage of the posters on here.

112. David

     Oct 06, 2014, 15:44 #58692

     Wenger's record against Mourinho is like Conners v Vitas Gerulaitis. After having lost 16 straight matches against Conners, Gerulaitis beat him at the 17th attempt. At the post match press conference, Vitas said, "Now let that be a lesson to you all. Nobody beats vitas Gerulaitis 17 times in a row." The difference is that Wenger has such a gargantuan ego - only last week he humbly reminisced that during the period 98-2004, Arsenal played the best football in its entire history - that he would say it seriously.

113. GBP

     Oct 06, 2014, 15:34 #58691

     Great post Mark but alas you're banging your head up a wall expecting the WOBS to understand what you say, despite the clear efforts to spell it out succinctly. They know nothing about football and its not hard to why they aren't businessmen/women either. A few years back they detested Mr Usminov and Sam Allardyce, now theyre knights in shining armour, saviours in fact and omni competent! Its good fun watching the WOBS (always a fractious bunch) disintegrate totally though.

114. GBP

     Oct 06, 2014, 15:18 #58689

     jjetplane - the word 'schoolboy' is very apt in your last post. Your rant is typically puerile. I can see you stamping your feet! You really should give up now you and others have reached the point of shouting up for Sam Allardyce as a potential Coach. Talk about digging a hole and then The hounding of Wenger has always been baseless, now you've just become hopelessly desperate, if not plain stupid. Keep them coming. Youre hilarious.

115. Bob

     Oct 06, 2014, 15:03 #58688

     "No, we were a lot better than last year's fixture" says In Wenger We Trust. We didn't lose 6-0 this time, it's true, but I am sure we must have had a shot on goal last time and in fairness we were playing much of the match with 10 men. So if you want to take a crumb of comfort from any perceived "improvement" in the state of affairs, go ahead. Back in the real world, we will never challenge again under this manager who has neither the hunger nor the know-how to compete with the best in the modern game.

116. GBP

     Oct 06, 2014, 15:03 #58687

     Good question Marcus. Easily answered. If a stark decline set in where he 'lost the dressing room' and it was plain to see that things aren't reversible and there is no explicable reason to why why a decline occurred, then you would have a case. There is a tolerance level as you say. The Club since the ground move has done magnificently under the circumstances. It still is doing well.Wenger has his faults of course, but they're not so detrimental to the Club right now as you and others make out every day.

117. jjetplane

     Oct 06, 2014, 14:46 #58686

     Wenger and his silly little defenders are one and the same. Schoolboy remarks and not a single shred of football analysis to back up their dull, unimaginative bleating. It would be something to see one of you give some basis for a football discussion but no - the wibblie wobbley wubblies have to do it all for you and then you chuck the same rubber brick over the fence and run back to AKB central (above a famous takeaway in Holloway) and say 'mum - look what I did!. Have to have a laugh about that hero of some of you. Bloody Keown hey saying Wenger has never managed the team. When times were good (before Pires got injured) the team ran itself and yet with a great coach during that time we may well have hit the grail on more than one occasion. The two-bit economics fellow (EMU) has dragged the club down from promising times and yes Pulis and Sam are better football men than OGL and I bet he knows it himself. Another mundane point - Fabregas would have gone to West Ham before he joined up with Le Loser again. The boy has dignity. GBP your posts are dwindling to the odd sentence. Just say valium and we will understand you and JAMIE just loves his Arsenal as long as no one tugs a shirt or clips a heel - well hard! Just think - it would be worth the Ostrich's time to watch Hull's last win. Winning, like losing, can get infectious.

118. The thoughts of Arsene Wenger

     Oct 06, 2014, 14:40 #58685

     Shut up, all of you, you don't know anything. People say we over commit and leave great swathes of the pitch open for good teams to exploit - they don't understand this wouldn't be a problem if my players had over 90% possession, as I ask of them. Merde! If only they would realise my vision! I have analysed this latest defeat and we need to go deeper into my philosophy. It will be a relief to get back onto the training ground - the cones do not try to tackle my boys. Merde! Those other managers! People say my squad is unbalanced - they do not realise that if I have more defenders I won't be able to have as many no. 10s, and we need aot of them as they are fragile boys. Anyway, they are my favourite type of player - I have been here 18 years and do what I want. Don't question me! People say the team lack direction and leadership - as if this is anything to do with me! Once I decide before the match who will be substituted on 67 minutes and they cross the white line it is up to them to work it out for themselves. Still,, even though their opinion is worthless as they have not worked half a day in football, at least I still have fans who never think anything that goes wrong has anything to do with me. They just want one thing from Arsenal - for me to remain as manager. I agree with them!

119. JAMIE

     Oct 06, 2014, 14:26 #58683

     The gamesmanship against Arsenal has been going on now for at least 15 years though nothing is ever done about it mainly because it's covered over by the trolls and other half wits putting it down to Arsenal being weak or having no plan b or tactics or any other usual rubbish.Manure were the worst at this and got away with murder under Fergy with the likes of Mike Riley and co.Chelsea have followed suit with Bolton,Blackburn and Stoke also taking advantage.Arsenal players have always under Wenger received this treatment which is why we suffer with so many injuries,minor fouls are pulled up by Arsenal players while opponents fouls are brushed aside.Good to see Phil Neville admitting this on MOTD2 who for once seem to show some sympathy to Arsenals treatment. I've always respected Wengers policy of fair play and winning with style otherwise the game just descends into a farce.

120. allybear

     Oct 06, 2014, 14:26 #58682

     AMG you write very sensibly and i agree with you. Im sick of all the excuses but as i have said many times before Wengers supporters will forgive him anything. There will come a time when he will be gone,what will they do? Its been the same for years as many people have said but unfortunately under OGL's tenure it wont change.

121. DJ

     Oct 06, 2014, 14:22 #58681

     Mark: That is one thing that really gets my goat the way that crook Abramovich is lauded as some sort of hero in this country. At least the Man City men got their money legally not through shady deals behind closed doors with a drunken President! His business practices should be investigated but he has so many paymasters he can use Chelsea as a money laundering operation. Still doesn’t explain why Arsene didn’t buy a defensive midfielder though!

122. WENGER MUST GO ASAP(MARCUS)

     Oct 06, 2014, 14:07 #58679

     The deluded bunch make me laugh. I want to meet one one on one so we could hash this out. I want to ask you lot one question. What would it take for you to finally say enough is enough?? do you have a threshold?? Or is wenger in your eyes untouchable?? No mater what he does he will always have the job??? what one is it for you guys?? As you guys seem to tolerate anything. If we don't get top 4?? lose 5 in a row?? what one is it?? please let me know so I can know if you folks our just wenger to he dies types or you do have a conscious and our not blindly deluded. Everyone has a tolerance level surely??

123. Mark

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:53 #58678

     Kevin:. The strategy is not to go for 3rd or 4th, although that was clearly the target when we were growing the club. It was unrealistic to expect us to sell players and balance the books while competing with Chelsea and Man City. That is straight jacket mentality. The strategy was to build a club that could go for 1st place every season. Whether you accept it or not is your prerogative but we have been playing catch up to Chelsea for a huge number of years. The huge investment they have had with stolen money, the £1 billion quid Abramovich wrote off via Fordstam for example pre FFP, is all well documented. Raising eyebrows and making claims we could compete, while disrespecting 3rd and 4th place finishes, is how some Arsenal fans are wired I guess. We are getting there, we have the renewed sponsorship money now and have seen some big signings. I am not trying to excuse some of the mistakes that have been made but this bizarre illusion that the stadium and renewed sponsorships are irrelevant drives me crazy. Arsenal took tough decisions and our fans have suffered, not because of Arsene Wenger, we have suffered because of the Chelsea and Man City owners ‘investment’, an investment with money not earned from football activities and a level playing field. That is a fact not an excuse. The £3 million taken by Kroenke is small change, if he had wanted to bleed the club dry he would have been taking dividends, whish he has not. In fcat, it is Usmanove that wants to take dividends, so he is hardly the white knight some pretend he is. The fact you are now disappointed that we won the FA Cup because you thought losing would get rid of Wenger is something I have heard a few say. It is a nonsense of course because he would be going nowehere. I have also heard so called fans wanting us to finish outside of the champions league places too. Personally, I can never cheer for an Arsenal defeat. I view Chelsea and Man City as a perfect illustration of all that is wrong with football and the reason for spiralling wage bills that have a knock on effect to the fans. If we did not have FFP and had more obscenely wealthy owners, the bidding war for the best players would have ended up with £1 million per week wages. And £250 ticket prices. We have to be very careful we do not misunderstand this ‘money’ issue. I accept the right to criticise some of Arsene Wengers decisions but I do not accept this delusional and hypocritical notion that he should be expected to out perform odious clubs like Chelsea and Man City. It takes years to catch that level of investment and we are on the way to doing that.

124. Rocky RIP

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:53 #58677

     @ Steven - Neville speaks as someone who was taught how to play these tactics against Arsenal by whisky nose Ferguson. Playing on the margins of the laws of the game, and in their case, getting away with it, especially at home, because refs were intimidated by the vile bully. Mike Riley's refereeing of the game where our unbeaten run ended in 2004 was a classic example. Man U knew the only way to stop us was to break our rhythm by getting right in our faces ie. kicking lumps out of us. They got away with murder that day. Alladyce was arguably the first manager to work out this method of stopping Arsenal. Plenty have followed since. If another one of our players looks like they might have had their leg snapped in two we aren't allowed to complain or we are whingers. People complain that Wenger doesn't do tactics, but I think what they really mean is he doesn't do negative, ugly, cynical tactics against superior teams or send teams out to negate the opposition. It's all just we play our positive, open football and hope it gets a result. Admirable, but not very canny when a result is needed sometimes.

125. GBP

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:52 #58676

     'misplaced faith' eh Ozzie? Says who? Seems like only you misery riddled mugs on here think that. Where are the former players, pundits, fan protests. media challenges to AWs tenure? None. All are evident when a Coach is genuinely in trouble.You and those of who who hound down AW are not even a minority. Youre simply an irrelavant bunch of internet 'Wenger 'trolls', most of whom dont even attend our matches, with no case for him to answer, no facts to work with and not an iota of reality to anything any of you say. Fools who cant see further than the ends of your noses in truth.Carry on blogging though. Your comments give mild amusement to a few of us over the odd dinner time tea and sandwich, even if nobody that matters is reading or listening to you all.

126. Angry & Frustrated

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:19 #58675

     Indeed nothing has changed, including some of the ridiculous clearly just purely wind up posts by all the usual suspects. In particular Jamie and INWT who stated (previous article) that because we were not thrashed 6-0 this time around, that it constituted evidence of improvement and progress! Based on that observation, how come we only managed to draw with the Spuds this time around at our place then, was that also progress since last season?

127. Tony Evans

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:15 #58674

     Very interested to hear that your thoughts on the cup final win mirrored mine, Ian. Although I was delighted to see us win a trophy my euphoria was definitely tempered by the fact that it virtually guaranteed more torture under Wenger. In fact if I had had a crystal ball at the time and knew with cast iron certainty that losing against Hull would have spelt the end of Wenger I would have wanted us to lose, such is my complete and utter lack of confidence in all things Wenger, and my wish for a new man at the helm.

128. In Wenger We Trust

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:13 #58673

     So predictable... the constant moaning and whining from the WOB. Dynamo? More like Die-n-moan, since that's the only things you are good at. You must feel terrible that the "deluded old fool" lead the team to a FA Cup win last season. I wish Wenger punch Moroninho's smug face, something you WOB deserve for a long time. Jamie, I disagree with you, buddy, winning that FA Cup was terrific because it got the WOB fuming as winning that trophy means Wenger will continue to manage the club so the WOB didn't get what they wanted. It's funny that the WOB saying winning the FA Cup isn't big deal, but the same WOB were angry on being knocked out of the Carling Cup. How brainless these WOB are. Arsene knows best.

129. Ozzie

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:10 #58672

     Agree with the first sentence, Westlower. Would have booked my flight from Oz to see that one; what a cream puff! GBP- the defender of the misplaced faith, hah! @AMG, not a bad thought with big Sam - he'd have the opposition squealing and holding their toes, haha. What wouldn't Sam give to manage a top flight side? Stuff the fancy stuff, let's kick some arse (and some ankles) he would say. Geez, Wenger could have outed all his repression in one blow.

130. kilkenny cat

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:08 #58671

     I also thought that maybe winning the cup might not be the best thing in the long term. If Wenger had gone on a high,then i think we would be now be on the next level assuming we had got the right manager. With our resources and facilities,any manager who has worked half a day in football could achieve what Wenger has in the last 7 years. No one is forgetting what he has done,but it was 10 years ago now. Yesterday was boring and predictable,could have written the script before kick off. Not even a shot on target till the last minute. Chavs know how to beat us. So do manure and now City. Over the last few years i have at times blamed the board,the players and the new stadium. But now only one man is to blame. And that is the deluded ogl.

131. Steven

     Oct 06, 2014, 13:03 #58670

     From Phil Neville: ” I am talking about the little niggly challenges his side kept making, mainly off the ball.They were just little things like shirt-pulls, shoves or clips of the heels which did not always result in fouls, let alone bookings, but still stopped or slowed down Arsenal’s attacking momentum. Frustration leads to loss of focus You might think Chelsea were not playing by the rules but, actually, they were – which is why a lot of things that were happening at Stamford Bridge were not being given as fouls. It is more like gamesmanship, and I would describe it as being cute and clever rather than cheating. It has always been a weakness of Arsene Wenger’s teams. They do not like physical contact and they do not seem to be able to handle it. Alexis Sanchez often seemed to be the man who would get a nudge and I think Chelsea targeted him a little bit, because they obviously saw him as a threat. They got men around him and, if one was jockeying for the ball, then another was tackling him or pushing him off the ball. But Chelsea did it with the entire Gunners team, not just an individual. It was definitely a Mourinho tactic to disrupt their rhythm and upset them” Here is the problem. To quote Phil Neville “like shirt-pulls, shoves or clips of the heels which did not always result in fouls, let alone bookings” AND “You might think Chelsea were not playing by the rules but, actually, they were – which is why a lot of things that were happening at Stamford Bridge were not being given as fouls”. What?! He mentions shirt pulling, shoves and clips of the heels (clips) and then claims these are all allowed under the rules! What rules? He is contradicting himself and this is exactly the problem we have got. Complete joke. He then says Arsenal do not like it! So Arsenal dont like being fouled,? What is he talking about. This is proof that Arsenal get treated differently. The rules are clearly not being applied, these are all fouls and therefore free kicks plus bookings. I give up, I really do. One law for Arsenal and another for other teams as Neville has inadvertently admitted.Joke.

132. Hiccup

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:58 #58669

     Ian, Kroenke's advice to the club was to leave the £170m in the bank. With interest rates set to rise in the near future, that looks like good solid advice to me, and well worth the fee. If the club is going to leave that kind of idle cash swashing about when rates are low, it would be foolish to start spending it now rates will rise. The interest we will start earning should hopefully see larger advisory fees paid out for this sound avice. Try thinking outside the box. It's not all about the football.

133. JAMIE

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:57 #58668

     I wish the Wobs would show as much commitment and passion to Arsenal as Wenger does.The way he grabbed Maureen was excellent and despite the age gap it was the midget who was terrified.No good the wobs throwing flares about if they're not prepared to vocally support the team.

134. Peter Wain

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:55 #58667

     firstly Maureen cause the altercation not wenger. Yes cahill should have gone and yes chelski fouled as soon as we had a promising attack and a stronger referee would have booked the Brazilian in the first half. But we need to be much stronger stop complaining and put the boot in like chelski. We need two big midfield players with the attitude of Storey and the build of Veira and Petite. Until we get those we cannot compete to win anything other than a cup when we get a favourable draw. Also the mistake in not buying fabregas is there for all to see.

135. Highbury Boy

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:49 #58663

     What makes you think his contract won't be renewed in 2018?

136. Alsace Lorraine de Totteridge

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:47 #58662

     I see that the UNDEAD are out in force this lunchtime. Mr Henry your have insulted their dear leader. Graham Souness was questioning his methods on the television, and the press has been full of such criticism. The Undead are people who cannot see that the refusal to sign Fabragas is the absolute litmus test of the man's unfitness to manage. When I suggested as much some time ago, I was similarly criticised. The facts are on the pitch and the television in front of them but they just won't see. We won't be rid for some time so just try and enjoy that which is enjoyable, and keep criticising the specialist in failure. He absolutely hates it, and anything we can do to harm the manager is ultimately good for Arsenal Football Club.

137. KC

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:41 #58659

     How many games against the top sides do we have to lose before some of you question our manager? He is not a God, sure his done great things but you have to be honest, stop hiding behind refs decisions, Cahil should have gone but its one decision we have lost to quality opposition away from home on a regular basis. Also please do not question a supporters loyalty because they do question its pathetic to say the least, proper supporters hurt when their team loses and hurt even more when the same weaknesses show up time after time. To say we only lost 2-0 is demeaning for a club of our size and stature.

138. Westlower

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:40 #58658

     The most disappointing aspect re Wenger yesterday was when he gently pushed Maureen when he should have punched his lights out. We now have a run of 9 winnable fixtures, with Theo returning & if the rumours are true Sami Khedira joining in Jan. Keep the faith you faint hearts.

139. GBP

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:29 #58657

     3 titles, 2 doubles, 5 FAC s, 1 CL Runner up. 2 CC Runners ups. 17 unbroken years in the CL. How do those facts sit in your distorted scheme of things Mr Marcus? Have they been airbrushed away as per the norm? You chaps resemble a boiler house today with the steam blasting out of your ears. Take an aspirin.

140. AMG

     Oct 06, 2014, 12:20 #58656

     Big Sam and Tony Pulis are/were the best PL managers, that is all there is to it. Mourinho is a winner, but I doubt he could have kept Crystal Palace up last season. What big Sam and Pulis manage at each club they go to is to get the players playing like a team, get them fighting for each other and get them organised in defence. On top of that, they are class acts following a defeat, always refusing to blame the referee or the 'financial power' of the opposition. Wenger could learn a lot from these individuals. How many years will people continue to make the same excuses for him? Unlucky with injuries? Referees are all against us? The meedja hate us? The big money clubs are stopping us from training our players to defend properly? Apparently yesterday's result was an improvement on last year? Chelsea didn't even have to get out of second gear to beat us. We lost last year, we lost this year, same result, only different is some people are celebrating, YES CELEBRATING, the fact that we only LOST 2-0. If you accept crap in life, guess what you'll get...

141. WENGER MUST GO ASAP(MARCUS)

     Oct 06, 2014, 11:54 #58653

     I see the delusional bunch i.e the akbs. Have come out to defend their messiah to the tilt lol. The man has carried as far as he can folks. Wake up!!!! A loss is a loss lol. Be it 6-0, 4-0, 2-0 or 1-0. The try and defend yet another loss to Mourinho as improvement is plain delusional. The mans record against him is awful 12--0 that is FACT. I know you folks hate facts and reality. As you folks clearly live in lala land. Most arsenal fans who have supported the club longer than you ARSENE FC folks can smell the coffee and know its time for a change. Yet you deluded ones cant. You are the minority now as most people will not tolerate this staus quo of averageness.

142. N4

     Oct 06, 2014, 11:46 #58651

     The problem with AKBs just like AW they come up with the same mantra excuses for the last 6 seasons!!! You too guys ...nothing has changed! I Wonder why you support Arsene FC!

143. JAMIE

     Oct 06, 2014, 11:34 #58649

     No wonder Cesc Fabregas was happy to join Chelsea, as it's ok to save shots with your hands in the air inside the penalty area and get away with it.If however you're playing for Arsenal it's a definite penalty and a red card.

144. anti wenger

     Oct 06, 2014, 11:26 #58646

     There's no point writing this article, the AKBs will always see something positive to use as argument to support wenger.to them, losing only 2-0 is a sign of improvement, since we lost 6-0 last season.the best approach for all of us now is to stop judging our dear team based on expectations of winning a major title, as we've clearly seen over the past 9 years that's beyond us with the current setup. The benchmark is top 4, so let's support our team to finish 4th, and celebrate it like a trophy,that's what other clubs like spurs and Everton who share the same ambition as us will do.COYG

145. Dynamo

     Oct 06, 2014, 11:11 #58644

     Hey, In Wenger We Trust, you'll be delighted to know that you're just like your manager. A whining, moaning, spineless, deluded old fool, who's always banging on about how unfair life is, is too blinkered to see what's in front of him, and whose defeats are always someone else's fault. The Professor (of cluelessness) also showed himself up again this weekend as the worst kind of loser. Mourinho has no class, SAF had no class, and Wenger has no class. Like I just said, ALL of Arsene's defeats are ALWAYS someone else's fault. Trying looking in the mirror, mate, and see what we see. A has-been who was great in his day, but who needs to be pensioned off.

146. Cornish Gooner

     Oct 06, 2014, 11:02 #58643

     Oh Jeez - you guys. Give it a rest and face reality. I have supported Arsenal for over 60 years and recognise leadership bull**** when I see it. Change at the top essential for my blood pressure.

147. GBP

     Oct 06, 2014, 10:59 #58642

     Perhaps football isn't for you. Defeats are part of the game and Arsenal don't suffer many. The post is just another meaningless whinge straight from the archives of Planet Valium, regurgitated for the sake of it.

148. JAMIE

     Oct 06, 2014, 10:57 #58641

     So Araenal's worst result was winning a trophy,something the wob's are always dripping we don't do enough of.You couldn't make it up.If Cahill had been rightly red carded early on for yet another terrible foul on Sanchez do you still think Chelsea would have won.Even Fabregas in his post match interview said Arsenal were the better team and the hardest to play against in the Premiership because of our skill on the ball.

149. In Wenger We Trust

     Oct 06, 2014, 10:54 #58640

     No, we were a lot better than last year's fixture. Anyone who said otherwise is a WOB plastic fan. Shut up and support both the club and manager if you consider yourself a true Arsenal supporter as true fans supports them even in bad situation and what we are going through isn't that bad, despite certain drama queens on this site, it's just little blip. Arsene knows best.