Same old story

The Gooner fans witnessed another 'so-so' performance from the 'second team' or squad members so to speak. No complaints on how they played really, but the only ingredient missing was the killer touch to put the ball in the net.

In the past, Wenger used to make 5 or 6 changes per match if the team is facing a hectic schedule. It is not the case this season as he is now intent on making wholesale ones, and it was justified for the Cup game against Orient. The former didn't work well in the past so he's now reverting to this. Players like Arshavin and Song fit well into the first team. On the other hand, Wenger's preference of playing Chamakh and Bendtner on the right hand side of the three-pronged attack has never, and never will work.

The game was there for the taking, and Arsenal controlled all of it. The lack of mental strength comes into the question. Do they have it? Based on the last 15 minutes of the game, I would think they do, but probably not enough to win titles, not at the moment though.

The lack of a back-up defensive midfielder for Alex Song is a real cause for concern. Emmanuel Frimpong will be back next season so it won't be so bad. If Song picks up an injury anytime soon, then Arsenal will be in thick mud. The thought of Denilson playing there sends shivers down my spine. I really like the look of Diaby playing there because he does bring much needed strength into the midfield with a touch of finesse. He can be a better player than Song, no doubt. If he stays injury free for the next 6 months or so, then Arsenal fans will start to see the best of him.

The replay against Orient is uncalled for really, considering the club's ever bulging fixture list. One plus point is that the squad is bigger and better than previous seasons. The next game is coming up in 36 hours or so against Stoke at home. If Arsenal do not win the game, then it 'au revour' to the League title. Then it is the League Cup final against Brum. Many people will say that it is 'just' the League Cup. Come to think of it, Barcelona were trophy-less from 1999-2004. And we all know what happened after that.

So till next time,
Goodbye.