Arsene Wenger has revealed Arteta has a ‘minimal chance’ of featuring in Arsenal’s must-win final game away to Newcastle United this weekend.
The news will come as a blow for the outstanding vice-captain who has been a pivotal figure in the Gunners lineup this season. But Arsenal have depth in midfield with Wilshere able to step in, however his own ankle complaint will limit the time he can play for.
While Wenger will miss mr consistent in midfield, Olivier Giroud is once again available after sitting out the past three matches due to suspension. The Frenchman will struggle to get the callup to start however with Lukas Podolski netting a brace against Wigan this week, but he will certainly play a part in proceedings.
Wenger revealed the following team news in his usual pre-match press conference:
[On Arteta] For the weekend, we have the uncertainty over Mikel Arteta, who had to come off just before the end of the Wigan game with a calf strain. Honestly, his chances of being available are minimal. I have to be realistic and prepare for another solution.
[on the overall injury situation] Everybody else should be alright. There are no other real uncertainties.
[on Wilshere replacing Arteta] He is an option yes. We will monitor him until Sunday and I will make a decision very late over what I will do.
[on the significance of missing Arteta][For] one game, we will find the resources to do without him if we have to. I’m convinced we can because he was out for a while during the season and I played all sorts of combinations.
Arteta was out and we played Ramsey and Wilshere. A few times I played Coquelin, Diaby so we had a few combinations that could work.
Thursday, 16 May 2013
Tuesday, 14 May 2013
Arsenal condemn Wigan to relegation - and give themselves the best chance for Champions Leauge all season
Wigan became the first FA Cup winners to be relegated from the top flight in the same season after a 4-1 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium sent them down.
But hopes of a dramatic escape were washed away by a flood of catastrophic defensive lapses as Arsenal struck three times in eight minutes through Theo Walcott, Podolski and Aaron Ramsey.
Wigan lurched painfully from triumph to despair just three days after winning the FA Cup for the first time in their history with a 1-0 win over Manchester City at Wembley.
Owner Dave Whelan now faces losing not only his club's top flight status, but his manager Roberto Martinez and leading players including Maloney and Callum McManaman.
They are marooned in 18th place, four points behind Sunderland and five behind Aston Villa whom they play on the final day - those two clubs can breathe long sighs of relief after a trying season. Wigan join QPR and Reading in the Championship.
Arsenal now need a win at Newcastle on Sunday to guarantee fourth place and Champions League football at the expense of North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Martinez banned alcohol after Wigan's Wembley triumph, but Arsenal attacked vigorously from the off in search of a Cup final hangover and found their opponents - metaphorically at least - reaching groggily for the Alka Seltzer after 72 hours of celebration.
Walcott, effervescent down the right wing, crossed for Santi Cazorla who nipped in front of his marker but headed wide of the right-hand post.
Wigan found themselves under the sort of pressure Manchester City could not muster and soon cracked in miserable fashion.
Cazorla delivered a corner from the Arsenal left and Podolski somehow found himself completely unmarked as he headed the bouncing ball in from six yards.
Roberto Martinez's side barely had a kick, let alone a shot, in the first haf-hour, but they gradually came into the game through the ever-lively Maloney and McManaman.
Maloney won and scored the equalising free-kick amid controversy - the Scot appeared to back into Mikel Arteta as he was tackled but Mike Dean penalised the Arsenal captain.
Maloney punished him with a beautiful free-kick that flashed over the wall and into the right corner of the net.
Wigan needed victory to maintain any realistic chance of survival and continued to attack after the break - however without the injured Maynor Figueroa their awful defending cost them dear.
On 63 minutes Antolin Alcaraz failed to cut out a Santi Cazorla cross and Walcott stole in to finish from close range.
Shortly afterwards Podolski grabbed his second after Paul Scharner played him miles onside, allowing the German to collect a headed Cazorla through ball and lift the ball past Joel Robles.
Ramsey then drove the final nail in the coffin, dribbling inside from the left, deceiving Joel with his eyes and finding the far corner from a tight angle.
Poorly as Wigan defended, the damage was done well before tonight - though Martinez still emerges from this season with credit, he will wonder how a side capable of such heroics could end up in the second tier
Monday, 13 May 2013
Arsenal vs Wigan predictions
Arsenal have two fixtures left in the Premier League this season. Both Arsenal and Wigan have plenty to play for as Arsenal are still in the hunt for Champions League football next season and Wigan currently holds the 18th spot in the Premiership table, a spot that means relegation. In my opinion this is therefore more like a cup game rather than a league game.
Arsenal is 10-4-3 in the Premier League since January, and hasn't lost a game in the last eight. They haven't got any new injury worries either. Oliver Giroud is out through suspension. Wenger has plenty of attacking options though, so he has no excuses.
Wigan triumphed in the FA Cup final and will come into this game on a high. They'll need that against a motivated Arsenal side that won't underestimate them. Wigan hasn't reported new injuries, but Beausejour, Figueroa and Stam will still be out.
Arsenal is a through and through quality side in more than decent form. They have players that can cut through most defences. I am pretty sure we will see Arsenal in full flow here trying to attack. This is mainly due to Wigan's poor defensive record in the EPL as of late. Wigan has let in two goals or more in their last four Premiership games.
Arsenal is 10-4-3 in the Premier League since January, and hasn't lost a game in the last eight. They haven't got any new injury worries either. Oliver Giroud is out through suspension. Wenger has plenty of attacking options though, so he has no excuses.
Wigan triumphed in the FA Cup final and will come into this game on a high. They'll need that against a motivated Arsenal side that won't underestimate them. Wigan hasn't reported new injuries, but Beausejour, Figueroa and Stam will still be out.
Arsenal is a through and through quality side in more than decent form. They have players that can cut through most defences. I am pretty sure we will see Arsenal in full flow here trying to attack. This is mainly due to Wigan's poor defensive record in the EPL as of late. Wigan has let in two goals or more in their last four Premiership games.
Sunday, 12 May 2013
Wayne Rooney to Arsenal?
After Sir Alex Ferguson's fair well game at Old Trafford today he said in the interview after that Wayne Rooney had asked for a transfer. There has been speculations that Rooney has been unhappy lately but now that it has been confirmed a lot of clubs have show interest in the English superstar.
There has been talks that Arsenal is one of these clubs. This sounds ridiculous seeing as Arsenal have only spent over 15 million on a small handful of occasions and that the price tag for Rooney would be on a scale never before seen at the Emirates.
One would think that a name like Wayne Rooney's would have a price tag of 30-40 million but this isn't the case, it has been said that a 25 million bid would be required for Manchester United to let him leave. This would still be a record breaking buy for the Gunners but with them spending big this summer it is looking very possible financial wise.
Arsenal were already looking for a record breaking buy this summer with Steven Jovetic but now that Rooney has come available will the Gunners be making there two biggest buys in one summer? If so these two buys would be over half of the Gunners summer budget for sure.
The Pros and Cons of signing Wayne Rooney
PRO: it sends out a message to the fans that big transfers flow in both directions. Arsenal fans have had to endure summer after summer of selling there top players and watching them win titles with other clubs. A Wayne Rooney buy would show Arsenal fans that the Gunners are capable of buying the top players as well as building them.
He would also contribute greatly to the attack of the Gunners at his best Rooney has tremendous vision and execution of a range of passes on the ball, he can beat defenders with strength and subtle touches of the ball, his movement is good in the final third, and he certainly knows where the goal is.
He can also be counted upon to put in a real shift and work hard for the team cause in a variety of positions.
Wenger could play Rooney as an outright forward instead of Olivier Giroud, this not only improves Arsenals outright attack but it also allows the likes of Santi Cazorla to keep his position behind the attack. In the season of 2011-2012 when Rooney did play this more attacking position he racked up an amazing 27 league goals.
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What is becoming increasingly clear is that Rooney needs a new challenge. He has been substituted, or starting on the bench, far too often in recent months for a player of his quality and importance, and he no longer appears to be the obvious choice to make things happen for United when they are struggling to break down the opposition. He needs a new challenge and the Premier League is his home.
CON: the price for Rooney would be more then the Emirates have ever seen and while Arsene Wenger has plenty of money to spend this summer he has always had difficulty in buying quality players for a big some of money. Not only that he is 27 years of age and that is well over Wengers average big transfer buys witch is about 24 years of age.
Rooney plays in a central attacking position and has the licence to roam during attacks, dropping deeper into an additional support midfield role in transition play and when defending. This is arguably the most stacked position on the Arsenal team. Santi Cazorla has proven an excellent addition and plays in that role more often than not, while Jack Wilshere, when not injured, also thrives in the role. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Lukas Podolski, Aaron Ramsey, Tomas Rosicky all can feature in that role also, so with the addition to Rooney it will only cause problems in the starting XI.
There is one final complication for Arsenal to bear in mind, which is of course the spending power of rival clubs who might see Rooney as a transfer target. Within the Premier League, should Rooney choose to remain in England, only Manchester City and Chelsea would be able to match both the transfer fee and his wages, which are reported at around £200,000 per week. Chelsea and Man City will also both be in the Champions League next season, which Arsenal have yet to guarantee themselves, and the blues have a Europa League cup final to look forward to as well—while City were defeated in the FA Cup final on Saturday. Arsenal failed to make any kind of impact in the cups this season and have gone eight long years without a trophy. Also the likes of PSG and Real Madrid are looking for some new signings and a big club like Real Madrid could be very tempting.
There has been talks that Arsenal is one of these clubs. This sounds ridiculous seeing as Arsenal have only spent over 15 million on a small handful of occasions and that the price tag for Rooney would be on a scale never before seen at the Emirates.
One would think that a name like Wayne Rooney's would have a price tag of 30-40 million but this isn't the case, it has been said that a 25 million bid would be required for Manchester United to let him leave. This would still be a record breaking buy for the Gunners but with them spending big this summer it is looking very possible financial wise.
Arsenal were already looking for a record breaking buy this summer with Steven Jovetic but now that Rooney has come available will the Gunners be making there two biggest buys in one summer? If so these two buys would be over half of the Gunners summer budget for sure.
The Pros and Cons of signing Wayne Rooney
PRO: it sends out a message to the fans that big transfers flow in both directions. Arsenal fans have had to endure summer after summer of selling there top players and watching them win titles with other clubs. A Wayne Rooney buy would show Arsenal fans that the Gunners are capable of buying the top players as well as building them.
He would also contribute greatly to the attack of the Gunners at his best Rooney has tremendous vision and execution of a range of passes on the ball, he can beat defenders with strength and subtle touches of the ball, his movement is good in the final third, and he certainly knows where the goal is.
He can also be counted upon to put in a real shift and work hard for the team cause in a variety of positions.
Wenger could play Rooney as an outright forward instead of Olivier Giroud, this not only improves Arsenals outright attack but it also allows the likes of Santi Cazorla to keep his position behind the attack. In the season of 2011-2012 when Rooney did play this more attacking position he racked up an amazing 27 league goals.
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What is becoming increasingly clear is that Rooney needs a new challenge. He has been substituted, or starting on the bench, far too often in recent months for a player of his quality and importance, and he no longer appears to be the obvious choice to make things happen for United when they are struggling to break down the opposition. He needs a new challenge and the Premier League is his home.
CON: the price for Rooney would be more then the Emirates have ever seen and while Arsene Wenger has plenty of money to spend this summer he has always had difficulty in buying quality players for a big some of money. Not only that he is 27 years of age and that is well over Wengers average big transfer buys witch is about 24 years of age.
Rooney plays in a central attacking position and has the licence to roam during attacks, dropping deeper into an additional support midfield role in transition play and when defending. This is arguably the most stacked position on the Arsenal team. Santi Cazorla has proven an excellent addition and plays in that role more often than not, while Jack Wilshere, when not injured, also thrives in the role. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Lukas Podolski, Aaron Ramsey, Tomas Rosicky all can feature in that role also, so with the addition to Rooney it will only cause problems in the starting XI.
There is one final complication for Arsenal to bear in mind, which is of course the spending power of rival clubs who might see Rooney as a transfer target. Within the Premier League, should Rooney choose to remain in England, only Manchester City and Chelsea would be able to match both the transfer fee and his wages, which are reported at around £200,000 per week. Chelsea and Man City will also both be in the Champions League next season, which Arsenal have yet to guarantee themselves, and the blues have a Europa League cup final to look forward to as well—while City were defeated in the FA Cup final on Saturday. Arsenal failed to make any kind of impact in the cups this season and have gone eight long years without a trophy. Also the likes of PSG and Real Madrid are looking for some new signings and a big club like Real Madrid could be very tempting.
Arsenal forward summer signings
Steven Jovetic: Arsenals number 1 priority for this summer is Steven Jovetic, the Gunners have had there eye on the Montenegrin striker for a while now and Arsene Wenger was told that only a 25 million price tag would grab the Fiorentina super forward. Rumour has it that now the price for Jovetic is between 15-20 million. Steven Jovetic is well worth that price and Arsenals fans are hopping that he will bring them there first title in 8 years.
Christian Benteke
Arsenal and Tottenham are ready to battle it out for the signature of Aston Villa goal-machine Christian Benteke this summer.
His form is in stark contrast to that of Emmanuel Adebayor, Jermain Defoe and Lukas Podolski, all of whom have struggled to find the net consistently this term, despite representing more illustrious teams.
Benteke is certain to leave Villa if the Midlands club are relegated and even if Paul Lambert’s team avoid the drop, there will be a cluster of clubs fighting for the Belgian’s signature. Villa, however, are ready to demand three times the £7m they paid Genk for Benteke in the summer.
Remy
Arsenal have been looking at Remy in recent weeks seeing as the Frenchman will be going for a very cheap price of around 6 million because OPR are in sure relegation and are needing to sell.
With Jovetic's price apparently cheaper Arsenal might feel that they don't need the Frenchman, even though he would be a great asset to the team for a cheap price.
David Villa
Wenger did try and buy the Spanish veteran in the January window but he signed a new contract with his long time club of Barcelona. There was more talks of Villa's move to Arsenal in this summer for a price in the region of 12 million. This still doesn't look very likely because Villa wouldn't want to leave his current club but with big changes expected in Barcelona this season Villa might have to accept that a change in club could still very much go ahead.
Weather it will be to Arsenal or not we don't no seeing as the Gunners have plenty of other stikers available for purchase.
Saturday, 11 May 2013
Wenger looking confindent in his hunt for Jovetic
Gunners fans are expect to witness a busy summer at the Emirates Stadium as Arsene Wenger desperately tries to keep pace with the best teams in the country.
After losing Robin Van Persie last summer Arsenal failed to compensate for his loss. The likes of Olivier Giroud has been good for the Gunners this season but he isn't up to standards that Arsenal need, they need to buy a top class striker if they want to finish in a Champions place next season.
However Arsenal fans might be getting there wish this summer, rumour has it that Stevan Jovetic is going to be their main transfer priority. For a while it seemed like the transfer Fiorentina had on Jovetic at 25 million was to much for Arsene Wenger, now however it has been reported that the Fiorentina forward could be available for around 15-20 million.
With the price of 25million Wenger could have been favouring a David Villa and Remy combination but now that the price is apparently cheaper Jovetic has taken the number one slot on their transfer list again.
The Gunners might have to give the Montenegrin forward a 100,000 wage per week but with new commercial deals and there 70 million budget in their hands it looks like that wont be a problem and giving his rising stature in European football they would have to give him the wages anyway with clubs like Juventus and Manchester City also looking at the 23 year old Striker.
After losing Robin Van Persie last summer Arsenal failed to compensate for his loss. The likes of Olivier Giroud has been good for the Gunners this season but he isn't up to standards that Arsenal need, they need to buy a top class striker if they want to finish in a Champions place next season.
However Arsenal fans might be getting there wish this summer, rumour has it that Stevan Jovetic is going to be their main transfer priority. For a while it seemed like the transfer Fiorentina had on Jovetic at 25 million was to much for Arsene Wenger, now however it has been reported that the Fiorentina forward could be available for around 15-20 million.
With the price of 25million Wenger could have been favouring a David Villa and Remy combination but now that the price is apparently cheaper Jovetic has taken the number one slot on their transfer list again.
The Gunners might have to give the Montenegrin forward a 100,000 wage per week but with new commercial deals and there 70 million budget in their hands it looks like that wont be a problem and giving his rising stature in European football they would have to give him the wages anyway with clubs like Juventus and Manchester City also looking at the 23 year old Striker.
Wednesday, 8 May 2013
What the result of the Tottenham vs Chelsea game does to the leauge table
A thrilling game ending 2-2 has kept Tottenham in 5th out of a Champions league place. Arsenal wanted a Chelsea win but a draw still means it is out of Spurs hands to get a top 4 place. If Arsenal win their next two games against Wigan and Newcastle it will put them in a Champions cup place know matter what the results are in Spurs games.
The game started with Chelsea taking the lead form a headed corner form Oscar, Dawson left Cahill with to much space in the box and Cahill headed it to Oscar for a header at the back post.
The next goal then came Tottenhams way, Chelsea turned the ball over and it came to Adebayor who made a run from his own half to the top of the Chelsea box unchallenged, he then took a shot that curled with finesse into the top right hand corner and left Cech standing still with no chance of a save.
There was another goal in the first half and it went to Chelsea. They passed the ball around the Spurs defence and a final ball through to Ramires who hit a toe poke first time into the side netting making it 2-1 going into the second half.
The second half had a lot of chances for both teams to grab a goal especially Chelsea, however Tottenham took the chance for the next goal. A pass to Adebayor (he was offside but it wasn't called) who did a skill full back heel to Sigurdsson, he took a touch and hit the ball clean into the right side netting making it 2-2.
The man of the match was given to Adebayor after his sublime goal and his skilful assist.
The pressure is all on Arsenal to keep their run of form going and win their upcoming games. It looked doubtful that Arsenal would finish ahead of Spurs in the latter half of the season but now it is all down to the Gunners to keep their London rivals waiting another year for the chance to finally finish ahead of Arsenal in what seems like a lifetime ago.
It looks promising that the Gunners will finish in the top four and get their 70 million budget for the summer, if they just preform like they have been the last couple of weeks it shouldn't be a problem. The Premier league is extremely unpredictable however and you can never be sure.
The game started with Chelsea taking the lead form a headed corner form Oscar, Dawson left Cahill with to much space in the box and Cahill headed it to Oscar for a header at the back post.
The next goal then came Tottenhams way, Chelsea turned the ball over and it came to Adebayor who made a run from his own half to the top of the Chelsea box unchallenged, he then took a shot that curled with finesse into the top right hand corner and left Cech standing still with no chance of a save.
There was another goal in the first half and it went to Chelsea. They passed the ball around the Spurs defence and a final ball through to Ramires who hit a toe poke first time into the side netting making it 2-1 going into the second half.
The second half had a lot of chances for both teams to grab a goal especially Chelsea, however Tottenham took the chance for the next goal. A pass to Adebayor (he was offside but it wasn't called) who did a skill full back heel to Sigurdsson, he took a touch and hit the ball clean into the right side netting making it 2-2.
The man of the match was given to Adebayor after his sublime goal and his skilful assist.
The pressure is all on Arsenal to keep their run of form going and win their upcoming games. It looked doubtful that Arsenal would finish ahead of Spurs in the latter half of the season but now it is all down to the Gunners to keep their London rivals waiting another year for the chance to finally finish ahead of Arsenal in what seems like a lifetime ago.
It looks promising that the Gunners will finish in the top four and get their 70 million budget for the summer, if they just preform like they have been the last couple of weeks it shouldn't be a problem. The Premier league is extremely unpredictable however and you can never be sure.
Three other players Arsenal are looking to sign this summer
Sebastien Corchia
With Bacary Sagna expected to leave the Emirates at the end of the season, partly of his own accord and partly due to his unacceptable form in the latter half of the season, the Gunners are keen to bring in another right back.
The North Londoners have been linked with Sochaux man Sebastien Corchia, whom has been touted as one of the best young defenders in Europe.
He’s already earned 50 international caps at youth level for France, and despite being just 22 years of age, has already made nearly 150 Ligue 1 appearances.Consistency is the key to Corchia’s game, being competent going forward as well as in defense, averaging 3 tackles and 3 interceptions per game.
According to the papers, the Frenchman will be available for around £5million, and has already expressed his desire to move to a bigger club in the summer.
Furthermore, having Corchia and Carl Jenkinson battle it out for a slot in the starting XI could bring the best out of both of them.
Asmir Begovic
The Gunners have made no secret that Wojciech Szczesny’s future as their No.1 will come under question this summer, with Arsene Wenger on the prowl to find a more consistent and reliable presence between the sticks than the flap-handed 23 year old.
No doubt, one of their first port of calls will be Stoke City’s ‘keeper, Asmir Begovic. The Bosnian international’s form may have dipped due to the Potters being in freefall during the second half of the season, but in the first five months of the current campaign, Begovic was unquestionably the best goalkeeper in the Premier League.
He measures in at 6 foot 5, and his broad physique makes him a dominant force in his own area, without limiting him in terms of reflexes and shot stopping, of which the 25 year old is also exceptional.
Stoke have landed their man with a £15million price tag, which Arsene Wenger would most likely disapprove of.
However, with Begovic keen to part company, and Jack Butland already lined up as his replacement for next season, some tough negotiations could easily see that figure reduced, as it’s clear to see that Tony Pulis has accepted moving Begovic on.
At the age of 25, even a figure between the £10million and £15million mark would be a solid investment on a relatively young, tried and tested Premier League stopper.
Etienne Capoue
Mikel Arteta may put in a good shift as the deepest player in the Arsenal midfield, with the second highest pass completion ratio in the Premier League, but the Spanish maestro is not the midfield enforcer the Gunners desperately need to take the pressure off their inconsistent defense.
With Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey, Arteta and Santi Cazorla all of a similar physique and mold, Arsene Wenger is keen to bring in a midfield power house to provide some mettle in the middle of the park, with his first choice being Etienne Capoue, having had a bid for the 24 year old rejected in January.
The Toulouse man has been sensational in Ligue 1 this season, with seven goals and three assists in 32 appearances, often bursting forward from deep to finish off counter-attacks or shooting from long range.
Capoue is the total package – fast, strong, athletic, but most importantly for Arsenal, he’s good on the ball and can contribute to attacking play.
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The Gunners’ £7million bid for Capoue was turned down during the last transfer window, but it’s believed £10million could be enough in the summer.
Tuesday, 7 May 2013
Julio Cesar to Arsenal?
With Queens's Park Rangers in certain relegation they will have to sell some of there top players. Arsenal have already shown great interest in their French sticker Remy and are likely to swoop in with a cheep 6 million price tag for him.
They are also showing interest in the Brazilian keeper Julio Cesar who would be looking for a move as his talent is far to great to be wasted in the Championship.
Redknapp said in an interview that the player would be looking for a move but that if any club wants to buy him they would have to pay top money for him.
The 33 year old Brazilian international has had a fantastic season and he would be a superb signing for the Gunner's. He would not only bring his amazing keeping talent to the club but all his experience playing at top level football for so long, this would motivate the rather young side of Arsenal and help them to gain more experience themselves. He would be a huge asset to the team in leadership and with 97 saves so far this season he isn't looking like his age is affecting his form.
I think out of all the keepers Arsenal have been looking at Julio Cesar is bringing the most to the table. The Gunner's would have to act quick and perhaps with a hefty price tag with other clubs like Milan looking to sign the Brazilian Veteran.
They are also showing interest in the Brazilian keeper Julio Cesar who would be looking for a move as his talent is far to great to be wasted in the Championship.
Redknapp said in an interview that the player would be looking for a move but that if any club wants to buy him they would have to pay top money for him.
The 33 year old Brazilian international has had a fantastic season and he would be a superb signing for the Gunner's. He would not only bring his amazing keeping talent to the club but all his experience playing at top level football for so long, this would motivate the rather young side of Arsenal and help them to gain more experience themselves. He would be a huge asset to the team in leadership and with 97 saves so far this season he isn't looking like his age is affecting his form.
I think out of all the keepers Arsenal have been looking at Julio Cesar is bringing the most to the table. The Gunner's would have to act quick and perhaps with a hefty price tag with other clubs like Milan looking to sign the Brazilian Veteran.
Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur: The implications for the top four race
The battle between Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal for a Champions League place could take a decisive turn on Wednesday night, what are the implications of the possible results at Stamford Bridge?
Chelsea's win at Manchester United has put them in an excellent position ahead of Wednesday's match against Tottenham Hotspur, with a win certain to see them finish in the top four. Here is a run-down of the implications for Chelsea, Spurs and Arsenal of the possible results at Stamford Bridge.
Draw
For Spurs, drawing at Stamford Bridge would give them one significant advantage, in that Arsenal would have to win both of their last two games to be sure of finishing above them. Chelsea would still be two points clear in third with a draw, and four points in their last two games against Aston Villa and Everton would likely secure them that third position.
Spurs would almost certainly still have to beat Stoke and Sunderland to finish in the top four, but a draw at Stamford Bridge would pile far more pressure on Arsenal, who would know that any dropped points would put the Champions League place in Spurs hands.
# Team GP W D L GF GA PTS
Chelsea win
A home win will see the Blues four points clear of Arsenal and six points ahead of Spurs with two games left, and given their huge goal difference advantage over Andre Villas-Boas' side, they will be assured a Champions League place for next season. The win at Old Trafford has put a whole new complexion on the match, and Spurs and Arsenal might already consider Chelsea as secure in the top four, leaving them to go head to head over the last couple of games.
If Spurs lose, they will have to beat Stoke and Sunderland in their last two games, whilst also hoping Arsenal either lose one of their games against Wigan and Newcastle, or draw both, as the Gunners' goal difference is far better than Spurs'. A Chelsea win leaves Arsenal needing four points to finish in the top four, and realistically settles the race.
# Team GP W D L GF GA PTS
Tottenham Hotspur win
The least likely result is also the one that would blow the race wide open, as it would leave Spurs and Chelsea level on 68 points and ahead of Arsenal on 67. The result would see Chelsea and Spurs needing to win their final two games to guarantee themselves third and fourth respectively.
This is the only result that takes Arsenal's place in the top four out of their hands, and indeed the only one that puts real pressure on Chelsea's place in next year's Champions League.
# Team GP W D L GF GA PTS
3 Chelsea 36 20 8 8 ? ? 68
4 Spurs 36 20 8 8 67 36 68
5 Arsenal 36 19 10 7 ? ? 67
One final thing worth noting is that Wigan's FA Cup final appearance means that Arsenal could find themselves in fifth by the time they play them next week whatever the result on Wednesday night, as Spurs and Chelsea play this weekend. You would back the Gunners to win that game in hand whatever pressure they are under, but it will give Chelsea and Spurs a chance to test Arsenal's resolve if they can win their tricky away games at Stoke and Aston Villa.
Draw
For Spurs, drawing at Stamford Bridge would give them one significant advantage, in that Arsenal would have to win both of their last two games to be sure of finishing above them. Chelsea would still be two points clear in third with a draw, and four points in their last two games against Aston Villa and Everton would likely secure them that third position.
Spurs would almost certainly still have to beat Stoke and Sunderland to finish in the top four, but a draw at Stamford Bridge would pile far more pressure on Arsenal, who would know that any dropped points would put the Champions League place in Spurs hands.
# Team GP W D L GF GA PTS
3
|
36
|
20
|
9
|
7
|
?
|
?
|
69
| ||
4
|
36
|
19
|
10
|
7
|
67
|
36
|
67
| ||
5
|
36
|
19
|
9
|
8
|
?
|
?
|
66
| ||
Chelsea win
A home win will see the Blues four points clear of Arsenal and six points ahead of Spurs with two games left, and given their huge goal difference advantage over Andre Villas-Boas' side, they will be assured a Champions League place for next season. The win at Old Trafford has put a whole new complexion on the match, and Spurs and Arsenal might already consider Chelsea as secure in the top four, leaving them to go head to head over the last couple of games.
If Spurs lose, they will have to beat Stoke and Sunderland in their last two games, whilst also hoping Arsenal either lose one of their games against Wigan and Newcastle, or draw both, as the Gunners' goal difference is far better than Spurs'. A Chelsea win leaves Arsenal needing four points to finish in the top four, and realistically settles the race.
# Team GP W D L GF GA PTS
3
|
36
|
21
|
8
|
7
|
?
|
?
|
71
| ||
4
|
36
|
19
|
10
|
7
|
67
|
36
|
67
| ||
5
|
36
|
19
|
8
|
9
|
?
|
?
|
65
| ||
Tottenham Hotspur win
The least likely result is also the one that would blow the race wide open, as it would leave Spurs and Chelsea level on 68 points and ahead of Arsenal on 67. The result would see Chelsea and Spurs needing to win their final two games to guarantee themselves third and fourth respectively.
This is the only result that takes Arsenal's place in the top four out of their hands, and indeed the only one that puts real pressure on Chelsea's place in next year's Champions League.
# Team GP W D L GF GA PTS
3 Chelsea 36 20 8 8 ? ? 68
4 Spurs 36 20 8 8 67 36 68
5 Arsenal 36 19 10 7 ? ? 67
One final thing worth noting is that Wigan's FA Cup final appearance means that Arsenal could find themselves in fifth by the time they play them next week whatever the result on Wednesday night, as Spurs and Chelsea play this weekend. You would back the Gunners to win that game in hand whatever pressure they are under, but it will give Chelsea and Spurs a chance to test Arsenal's resolve if they can win their tricky away games at Stoke and Aston Villa.
Monday, 6 May 2013
Arsenals Transfer Talks of Boosting Attack
Spanish newspaper AS Sport has revealed that Arsenal have signed Barcelona striker David Villa for £12 million on a pre-contract deal.
Villa has long been linked with Arsenal, and Wenger had apparently tried to sign him in Januray as well. However, the Catalonian giants were not ready to get rid of him that easily.
As anticipated, a lot of major changes are expected at Camp Nou this season, as the Catalonians are losing their once-mighty form.
Arsenal have been linked with another striker Stevan Jovetic, but he is comparatively expensive because the price tag on him is £25 million.
Arsene Wenger – who is known to be someone not very fond of spending in the transfer market – will prefer David Villa over Jovetic.
However, another striker linked with Arsenal is QPR’s Loic Remy who has apparently won Wenger’s heart.
His release clause is worth£6 million and both Villa and Remy, combined, will prove highly beneficial for the Gunners – who may regain their attacking streak, once dominated by Robin van Persie.
Villa has long been linked with Arsenal, and Wenger had apparently tried to sign him in Januray as well. However, the Catalonian giants were not ready to get rid of him that easily.
As anticipated, a lot of major changes are expected at Camp Nou this season, as the Catalonians are losing their once-mighty form.
Arsenal have been linked with another striker Stevan Jovetic, but he is comparatively expensive because the price tag on him is £25 million.
Arsene Wenger – who is known to be someone not very fond of spending in the transfer market – will prefer David Villa over Jovetic.
However, another striker linked with Arsenal is QPR’s Loic Remy who has apparently won Wenger’s heart.
His release clause is worth£6 million and both Villa and Remy, combined, will prove highly beneficial for the Gunners – who may regain their attacking streak, once dominated by Robin van Persie. Friday, 26 April 2013
Arsenals hopes of finishing in a champions league place are looking slim. The table now stands with them in third with 63 points, Chelsea in fourth with 62 points and a game in hand and Spurs with 61 and a game in hand.
The problem is that Arsenal play the winners of this years Premier leauge, Man U. It is a must win seeing as Chelsea play swansea and Spurs play wigan. Arsenal have been showing good form so just because they are coming up against the winners of the leauge and their old super stricker Robin Van Persie does not mean that it will be a walk over. Arsenal have more to play for then most teams in the premier leuge as Arsene Wenger has never finished outside the top 4 in his time at Arsenal and that Spurs have finished behind Arsenal for about 25 years. Another big reason is that they are looking to get there 70million budget in the summer but that could only happen with a champions cup place.
Arsenal are still planning ahead with the fact that they are going to get there 70 million budget and talks with Fiorentina's striker Jovetic is looking promising. Arsenal are expected to go for an early bid in the summer transfer window.
It also seems like Arsenal will bow out of the race for Gotze seeing as Bayern have but in a 32 million bid for him and Arsenal are not willing to spend that much money.
The problem is that Arsenal play the winners of this years Premier leauge, Man U. It is a must win seeing as Chelsea play swansea and Spurs play wigan. Arsenal have been showing good form so just because they are coming up against the winners of the leauge and their old super stricker Robin Van Persie does not mean that it will be a walk over. Arsenal have more to play for then most teams in the premier leuge as Arsene Wenger has never finished outside the top 4 in his time at Arsenal and that Spurs have finished behind Arsenal for about 25 years. Another big reason is that they are looking to get there 70million budget in the summer but that could only happen with a champions cup place.
Arsenal are still planning ahead with the fact that they are going to get there 70 million budget and talks with Fiorentina's striker Jovetic is looking promising. Arsenal are expected to go for an early bid in the summer transfer window.
It also seems like Arsenal will bow out of the race for Gotze seeing as Bayern have but in a 32 million bid for him and Arsenal are not willing to spend that much money.
#
|
Team
|
GP
|
W
|
D
|
L
|
GF
|
GA
|
PTS
| |
1
|
34
|
27
|
3
|
4
|
78
|
35
|
84
| ||
2
|
33
|
20
|
8
|
5
|
59
|
30
|
68
| ||
3
|
34
|
18
|
9
|
7
|
65
|
35
|
63
| ||
4
|
33
|
18
|
8
|
7
|
66
|
35
|
62
| ||
5
|
33
|
18
|
7
|
8
|
58
|
41
|
61
| ||
6
|
34
|
14
|
14
|
6
|
51
|
38
|
56
| ||
7
|
34
|
13
|
12
|
9
|
61
|
42
|
51
| ||
8
|
33
|
13
|
6
|
14
|
43
|
44
|
45
| ||
9
|
33
|
10
|
12
|
11
|
43
|
42
|
42
| ||
10
|
34
|
11
|
9
|
14
|
40
|
47
|
42
| ||
11
|
34
|
10
|
10
|
14
|
44
|
52
|
40
| ||
12
|
34
|
9
|
12
|
13
|
47
|
54
|
39
| ||
13
|
34
|
8
|
14
|
12
|
33
|
53
|
38
| ||
14
|
34
|
9
|
10
|
15
|
38
|
45
|
37
| ||
15
|
34
|
8
|
13
|
13
|
30
|
41
|
37
| ||
16
|
34
|
10
|
7
|
17
|
43
|
60
|
37
| ||
17
|
34
|
8
|
10
|
16
|
36
|
63
|
34
| ||
18
|
33
|
8
|
7
|
18
|
37
|
60
|
31
| ||
19
|
34
|
4
|
12
|
18
|
29
|
56
|
24
| ||
20
|
34
|
5
|
9
|
20
|
37
|
65
|
24
| ||
Friday, 19 April 2013
Arsenal Summer Transfers Targets
Arsenal have declared a 70million budget for this summer if they get a champions league place (top 4). The prediction for the new Arsenal team will be a young french right back from Marseille to replace Sagna who they are looking to sell this summer.
They have also shown interest in signing Gotze the new rising midfielder from Dortmund. The gunners tried to snatch the star last season but were told he was not for sale. It looks like a move could happen this year for Gotze but at a price of 40m. Arsenal are expected to only go as high as 25 million and with Man City also looking at the young player Arsenal might have to dig deep into there budget if they want to get him.
News of a new keeper has been on a few peoples minds and with Victor Valdes looking for a move the the premier league he has been short listed by Wenger alone with Adler and a few others.
Finaly with Arsenals attack not being what people expected this year with the new signings of Giroud and Podolski. The top strickers havnt preformed to there best for most of the season and the talk of improving the forward line some more is highly likely. Jovetic is looking for a move and is a big target for a lot of clubs Arsenal being one of these willing to pay big bucks. If QPR are religated this year there new french signing Remy will be looking for a move and Arsenal might be looking to swoop him for cheap.
Sunday, 6 January 2013
Welcome to Web Design class! This will be your blog.
You and I will be the only people allowed to post or edit here. Feel free to delete this post when you have finished reading it!
1. You need to decide what this blog is going to be about. Rename it! Choose something original - check on Google to see if the name already exists before making your final decision.
2. All content on this blog must respect the rights of others - including pupils, staff, authors, artists etc. Please do not copy and paste other people's ideas onto your blog and claim them as your own - this is plagiarism and makes for a very boring blog.
3. The blog should contain your own written ideas, thoughts, photos, artwork etc. This is your space to express yourself! Consider it as an on-line billboard, all about you and your interests. Have fun with it!
4. And finally -blogs that disrespect others will be removed without prior warning but with a lot of discussion afterwards!
Ms Burrowes
You and I will be the only people allowed to post or edit here. Feel free to delete this post when you have finished reading it!
1. You need to decide what this blog is going to be about. Rename it! Choose something original - check on Google to see if the name already exists before making your final decision.
2. All content on this blog must respect the rights of others - including pupils, staff, authors, artists etc. Please do not copy and paste other people's ideas onto your blog and claim them as your own - this is plagiarism and makes for a very boring blog.
3. The blog should contain your own written ideas, thoughts, photos, artwork etc. This is your space to express yourself! Consider it as an on-line billboard, all about you and your interests. Have fun with it!
4. And finally -blogs that disrespect others will be removed without prior warning but with a lot of discussion afterwards!
Ms Burrowes
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