Can They Cope?

The game we witnessed last night was a real interesting one, had almost everything and Arsenal came out as winners, albeit lucky. They scored early on, off a deflected Bendtner shot but couldn't double their advantage. Samir Nasri pulled a hamstring and went off immediately, so did Sebastian Squillaci, for very different reasons (red card, albeit debatable). Once again, they needed Captain Fab. to come of the bench to win the game. The last two rounds have got Arsenal two penalties which saved them, the first against Leeds which kept them in the Cup, and last night to win the game. The defence again, wasn't great, allowing Huddersfield to score form a corner. Abou Diaby also wasn't at his best, though he just returned from injury.

Arsene really didn't want a replay, as he knows that we might possibly play 2 games a week till the end of the seaon. As such, we were very lucky to get away with a win. The biggest result of the game was the injury to Nasri, arguably our best player this season. The Frenchman has been immense, filling in for Fabregas when needed and complementing the attack with incisive passes and marvellous ball-control which allows him to get into threatening positions to score or provide for his teammates.

His presence will be missed, but unlike other seasons, now we do have the depth to replace him. It is surprising to say this, but Arshavin is a ready-made replacement. A player of his quality has been playing second fiddle to Nasri. All is not fantastic though as Andrey has struggled to replicate his form of last season though. He has the highest assists but at times looks disinterested. Should he return to his impressive best, then Nasri's injury will hardly be felt.

Once thing's for certain though, he will most probably miss the first leg against Barcelona in the Champions League. The Boss has said that he will be out for three weeks but he is hoping it is a Grade One hamstring injury which will keep him out for a week less.

I really hoped that Wenger would've signed a centre back, even though on loan, because we do look slightly short at the moment. I just hope that his decision does not come back to haunt us in the latter stages of the season. A really big game coming up against Everton and then Newcastle. If we get maximum points from this two, then we will be the main challengers to Man Utd for the title, though they are still clear favourites for it.

Till next time, goodbye.
Cheers
Jay Jay