Right, so we never signed a keeper (Mark Schwarzer in particular). I'll admit, I'm disappointed. A top notch keeper will turn this side into a championship winning side. Firmly believe that. I decided not to post yesterday just to gather my thoughts on this subject.
Over on twitter, many a gooner are going despair. Let me tell you, it is not the end of the world!
I don't believe the stories stating 'Arsenal had two bids of the same value rejected by Fulham' I think it was John Cross on Arseblog's Arsecast saying we initially offered £2 million to Fulham in May that was brushed to one side because of the managerial issues. We then reminded them the offer was on the table which was comprehensively rejected. Which is fair enough. I believe Man Utd bought Edwin Van der Sar for just £1 million, which was a steal. Now £2million for a keeper with a far lower profile than VDS is obviously good value. And I can understand Wenger's resistance in upping his bid. No point spending money for the sake of it. Now on to my main point regarding the keeper's situation.
I personally believe Arsene Wenger has used the media and the public bid of Mark Schwarzer in a bid to raise Manuel Almunia's game. Certainly, it worked on Saturday as Almunia had a terrific match, coping well with the aerial bombardment. Behind the scenes, the coaching staff are probably working Almunia into overtime perfecting his play.
 |
| Mr. Motivator? |
Maybe this transfer window gave Almunia a much needed kick up the arse, as he enter's last chance saloon. To kickstart his Arsenal career, he should follow Emmanuel Eboue's lead and prove the doubter's wrong. I just hope the Arsenal support fully get behind the number one!
I read somewhere that 'Arry was set to sell the error prone Gomes before he strengthened his defence, and saw a vast improvement in his goalkeeper. Well, we have significantly improved our defence from last season, and with our high pressure closing down taking shape, all the signs for a steady Almunia are in place.
The only activity involving Arsenal yesterday was the departures of Armand Traore and Nacer Barazite on loan to Juventus and Vitesse respectively. A good chance for both of the young players to win a move permanently as their route to the first team is blocked.
No loan moves for the likes of Henri Lansbury and Jay Emmanuel-Thomas came to fruition yesterday. Could be in line to face the Spuds in the Carling Cup before a short term loan in January. Nevertheless, pleased to see them stay.
In Theo Walcott's press conference yesterday, it is staggering that the kid is only 21. Polite and with his head firmly screwed on. I hope he keeps up his impressive form, the kid deserves success.
That's all for today. See you all on twitter.
Keep the faith!
No comments:
Post a Comment