The Curious Case of Andrey Arshavin

Morning all

With not much to really write about, I was thinking last night to write about our enigmatic little Russian, Andrey Arshavin.

When he first came to England, in January 2009, we had a player firing on all cylinders, closing defenders down and smashing in goals. Now it looks as if the lad has taken his foot off the gas.

This season he has 4 goals and 9 assists to his name. A pretty good standard by any stretch of the imagination. But what has gone wrong with him in recent weeks? It's clear to see he isn't up to his usual standards.

Personally, I don't think the formation suits him ideally, but it should work for him. When he is in the team, he usually occupies the role on the wings. But that isn't to say that is his stick on position. As with all Arsenal players, there is a desire to roam around the pitch, looking to make things happen. Right now, he is suffering from a loss of form, and of such is feeling a pressure, in my opinion, to pull off the spectacular. When that 'risk' doesn't work, and the groans from the Emirates ring out, then his head drops.

Andrey Arshavin is an incredible player, just watch his first game at Anfield. Or his goal at Old Trafford. When on form, he fits into the Arsenal regime perfectly. Right now, he faces a battle to get back into the team. He has lost confidence and form, but no way has he lost talent. I hope he knuckles down and improves his fitness, with the title run-in coming up, we need him.

I believe Andrey to be a player who needs to be appreciated, not booed when things are against him. (As a sidenote, the booing at the Emirates is ridiculous. Who is it helping?)

Arsene Wenger said Russia's absence from the World Cup was demoralising for him. Well if that's the case, he needs to recover from his slump in form.

No matter what the stats say, there is still more to come from Arshavin. And that is the pleasing thing. There's talk of him leaving the Gunners, and I seriously hope we keep him for a long time. We need to keep special players here, and he has winning experience.

Now Andrey; it's time to stamp your authority on this team.

That's it today, thank you for your time.