Season Review 2010/11 - Premier League

It took eight months to construct Arsenal's most convincing title challenge since the 'Invincibles' and less than eight games to tear it down.

For so long Manchester United's most serious rivals for the crown, Arsène Wenger's side brought us joyous highs but too many crushing lows to sustain their push for honours beyond the Spring.

It seems a hell of a long time since Arsenal travelled north to kick off their campaign at Anfield.

Back then, an air of optimism pervaded the squad despite a slew of gloomy predictions in the media. Wenger had supplemented his squad with Marouane Chamakh and Laurent Koscielny while retaining the services of his captain, Cesc Fabregas. What's more, a certain Jack Wilshere had been turning heads in pre-season.

The question marks over Arsenal's mental fortitude were nowhere to be seen in the first half of the season. Quite the opposite. A gutsy point was rescued at Liverpool and traditionally tricky trips to Blackburn and Everton brought victory. Meanwhile Blackpool and Bolton were brushed aside at the Emirates as Wenger's side tracked early pacesetters Chelsea at the top of the table.

The noisiest accusation was this: Arsenal couldn't beat the big sides. The stats bore this out, especially after another defeat at Stamford Bridge in October, but the critics were silenced by big wins over Manchester City at Eastlands and then Chelsea at Christmas.

Arsenal had another factor in their favour: they were superior on the road. No team in the Premier League matched their eight wins and seven draws and big wins at Birmingham and West Ham kept Wenger's men bang in contention at the turn of the year.

But the warning signs were there.

As early as September, Tomas Rosicky's missed penalty and Darren Bent's stoppage-time strike snatched a draw from the jaws of victory at Sunderland. And a failure to hold onto leads would undo Arsenal time and again, often in the most dramatic of circumstances.

A four-goal lead was surrendered at Newcastle in February, Liverpool were gifted an equaliser 11 minutes into stoppage time in April and the North London derbies realised just one point despite two-goal cushions in both matches.

The Carling Cup Final is often regarded as THE turning point in Arsenal's season but you could make a case for the game that immediately preceded it. Stoke were beaten on February 23 but Fabregas and Theo Walcott were lost to injury for a decisive month.

That period saw costly draws against Sunderland and West Brom before Blackburn became one of eight teams to leave the Emirates with something to show for their efforts. Compare that to Man United, who dropped just two points on home soil.

Another sizeable away win - this time at Blackpool - kept Arsenal in touch by mid-April but that late Liverpool penalty knocked a bit more stuffing out of Wenger's team. They took another hit at Spurs in midweek and were finally brought to their knees at Bolton.

Typically, there was one final flourish and a glimpse of what might have been when Man United were seen off in style but, tellingly, that was Arsenal's only victory in their last seven matches.

The title had seemed within touching distance at times in 2010/11. Instead Arsenal were left with fourth place and plenty of regrets.

Source: Chris Harris, Arsenal.com on 31 May 11

Arsenal announces pre-season game in Malaysia

Arsenal Football Club is delighted to announce that the first-team squad will be playing a pre-season friendly in Malaysia this summer.

Arsène Wenger’s side take on a Malaysia XI at the Bukit Jalil Stadium, Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, July 13, kick off 8.45pm local time. This game will be the first leg of Arsenal's Asian Tour. Details of the second leg will be announced on Wednesday.

Arsenal Chief Executive Ivan Gazidis said: “Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is excited to be visiting Malaysia.

“The Club has a tradition of playing there going back to the 1960s. This will be our fourth visit to Malaysia, having last visited Kuala Lumpur in 1999."

"We enjoy huge support in Asia and this will help bring the Club closer to our fans out there.”

HRH Prince Tengku Mahkota of Pahang added: "It is an honour for Malaysia to host Arsenal, I don't think any other national teams get such opportunity. This is a rare opportunity for our Malaysian national team as they prepare for the Olympics and ahead of the World Cup."

Check Arsenal.com in the near future for ticket details, travel options and news about that second leg.

In addition, Arsenal has already confirmed the details for Emirates Cup 2011, which is being played at Emirates Stadium on Saturday, July 30 and Sunday, July 31.

Emirates Cup 2011 will see Arsenal joined by MLS side New York Red Bulls, who currently boast Gunners’ legend Thierry Henry in their ranks, leading French club Paris Saint-Germain and Club Atlético Boca Juniors - the most successful Argentine and South American club of all time.

Source: Arsenal.com on 24 May 11

Season finishes with an unsurprising whimper

After I called for the players to regain some pride in Arsenal and remind the fans why they follow the club, once again it was only a select few that rose to the challenge. It was the same few that have been putting in 100% in recent weeks when others around them haven’t looked interested.

Like the Aston Villa match last week, the Arsenal fans again were chanting for Arsene Wenger to spend some money. It was hard to blame the travelling supporters for voicing their opinion as they were watching a team that lacked urgency in trying to get back into the game.

Even though Manchester City’s win at Bolton made it irrelevant, at the start of play there was still a chance to finish 3rd and avoid the Champions League qualifier. However, you wouldn’t have known it the way some players were looking to just coast through the game and go off on holiday.

When Fulham went 1-0 up, it was all too predictable and reminiscent of recent weeks. A simple through ball released Bobby Zamora in miles of space on the right and he had ages to set up Steve Sidwell, whose effort managed to go through Johan Djourou and Wojciech Szczesny. Kieran Gibbs had been sucked in-field, making it easy for the hosts to score.

As I suspect most fans did, I immediately wrote the game off, expecting Arsenal to concede a few more stupid goals and give nothing going forward. However, the one man to emerge from the rubble of the end of season collapse with an improved reputation again spared Arsenal from utter humiliation. Robin van Persie’s burst and finish into the box was out of character for the rest of the team, and extended his record of scoring in consecutive away games to nine. It also meant he finished with 18 Premier League goals, two goals away from the winners of the golden boot; a sensational return from a striker who only scored his first league goal of the season on 1st January.

Whilst van Persie was giving his all up front, despite lacking match fitness, Thomas Vermaelen was excelling at the back. Although he was beaten in the air for the second Fulham goal, Zamora had peeled off Djourou too easily, leaving the Belgian exposed. Had it not been for Vermaelen, Arsenal would have easily lost the game. His tackling in all areas of the pitch was superb, however none of them quite compared to his challenge on the goal line to deny Danny Murphy. It showed a determination and a commitment that the other centre backs have been lacking for most of the season. Risking a certain red card if he got it wrong, Vermaelen’s timing was perfect as he somehow hooked the ball away from Murphy and the goal. Obviously Arsenal need to sign another centre back, but getting a full season out of the Belgian will be vital to success next season.

After conceding the second goal, Arsene Wenger made some good attacking substitutions, however they weren’t used well enough. Fulham’s defence looked vulnerable when players were running at them, however all too often Arsenal were passing the ball sideways across midfield, and at a fairly pedestrian pace. Even when Zoltan Gera was sent off for a daft tackle, especially considering Fulham were hoping for a fair play place in Europe, there was little urgency from Arsenal to level the match.

It took a more direct pass from Vermaelen to get Theo Walcott running at their defence. With the left back unable to catch him, Walcott’s finish was assured as he completed his best season in terms of goals and assists. Even though the team has gone backwards, Walcott is a player where the improvement is noticeable.

There was a real sense of relief amongst the Arsenal fans after the match; relief that the tortuous end to the season was over, relief that they hadn’t suffered another defeat and relief that Birmingham City won’t be in the Premier League next season. It almost goes without saying that the Carling Cup final had a hugely damaging effect on the team, but at least the side that beat Arsenal that day have been similarly poor since the match and have been relegated.

There have been varying quotes from Arsene Wenger after the match, but the general theme of them is that signings will be made, which will be reassuring to fans. However it remains to be seen if those signings are the quality, experienced players the supporters are hoping for. Departures also seem on the agenda with Nicklas Bendtner joining Denilson on the list of players looking to leave.

As always with Arsenal, the transfer rumours have begun as soon as the season has finished. Due to changes being more likely this summer, it seems the club are being linked with even more players than usual. As much as some fans would like to see Arsene Wenger go, there is virtually no chance of the Frenchman leaving this summer, so I think it’s best to let him get on with trying to improve the squad. There is no way he won’t have heard what the fans want during the last two games, everyone is just left to wait and see if Wenger is ready to sacrifice his youth project and actually bring in some experience. My suspicion is that there will be quite a few comings and goings this summer, but that some fans still won’t be satisfied with some of the additions when everything kicks off again on 13th August.

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be looking back at the season, assessing the current squad and giving my view on their futures at the Arsenal.

Source: Sam Limbert, ESPN Soccernet on 24 May 11

Arsenal finish in fourth place despite Theo Walcott leveller at Fulham

Cesc Fábregas probably knew what he was missing. The Arsenal captain raised questions about his leadership qualities by choosing to go to watch the Spanish Grand Prix rather than his team's final match of the season. In doing so he spared himself from witnessing a low-key affair in which familiar failings were again exposed.

The sedateness of the game suggested that Arsenal did not truly believe they had a chance of overtaking Manchester City and regaining third place in the table and a shortcut to next season's Champions League group stages and their defensive frailty reminded them why their ambitions for the season were not achieved. Though this match at times felt like a bout of end-of-season sparring, Arsenal's centre-backs, Thomas Vermaelen and Johan Djourou, were often tormented by the power of Bobby Zamora and the pace of Andy Johnson.

Zamora was instrumental in Fulham's first goal in the 26th minute. After Clint Dempsey set him running free down the right, the striker ,cut the ball back to Steve Sidwell, who slotted it under Wojciech Szczesny from eight yards. Arsenal equalised almost immediately thanks to a move involving three players who had done nothing up to that point and would do little after it. Abou Diaby exchanged a snappy one-two with Marouane Chamakh before sliding the ball through for Robin van Persie, who fired low and hard into the net from 16 yards.

When Jonathan Greening shuffled into the box from the left in the 56th minute Zamora drifted cleverly between the inattentive Djourou and Vermaelen and to meet his team-mate's dainty cross. Arsène Wenger's side were given a boost when Fulham were reduced to 10 men following a reckless two-footed tackle by Zoltan Gera on Vermaelen - they must wait for the Football Association to assess all referee reports before finding out if that red card makes them drop down Uefa's fair play league and, therefore, give England's extra Europa League spot to Blackpool.

"We've been told we have to wait until Friday to find out," said the Fulham manager, Mark Hughes. "It would be nice to get there because qualifying for Europe on top of finishing eighth in the league would cap an excellent season for us." Although Theo Walcott came off the bench to strike a fine 89th-minute equaliser for Arsenal, Wenger did not pretend that it had been an excellent season for his team.

"Three weeks ago we were in a position to win the league so we are hugely disappointed with fourth place," he said.

"We have to rectify things in some areas next season. If we can find the right players we will spend money."

Source: Paul Doyle, The Guardian on 22 May 11

Walcott's late leveller

Arsenal's season of frustration ended with a 2-2 draw at 10-man Fulham, which will leave the Gunners having to qualify for the Champions League.

Steve Sidwell had swept the hosts in front in the 26th minute, only for Robin van Persie to quickly equalise.

Bobby Zamora nodded the Cottagers back into the lead just before the hour with substitute Zoltan Gera shown a straight red card two minutes after coming on - but a late goal from Theo Walcott earned Arsenal a point as they finished fourth in the Premier League behind FA Cup winners Manchester City.

The Gunners had won just twice in their previous 10 league matches as a campaign which promised so much quickly fell apart after defeat in the Carling Cup final against Birmingham at Wembley.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger left the field to chants of "spend some money'' from the travelling support, who will expect much better next time around.

Fulham saw most of the ball during the opening exchanges at a blustery Craven Cottage.

When Jack Wilshere - the centre of a club-versus-country row over his proposed inclusion in the Under-21s European Championship squad - did pick out Samir Nasri with a chip into the Fulham box in the 10th minute the Frenchman, just back from a hamstring injury, could only loop a tame header goalwards.

Arsenal's defence, so often their Achilles heel this season, played a very high line and were almost caught out when Andrew Johnson scampered clear, but was called back by a tight offside flag.

The visitors almost snatched the lead when Bacary Sagna whipped over a deep cross to the far post, where fellow full-back Kieran Gibbs' downward header was clawed away by Mark Schwarzer, who came close to joining the Gunners in the summer.

Fulham took the lead in the 26th minute when Arsenal defender Johan Djourou played Zamora onside as the England striker scampered away down the right before cutting the ball back to Sidwell, who drilled home from six yards.

The lead, though, did not last long.

Abou Diaby, so often an under-performer this season, won the ball in midfield, before playing a neat one-two with Marouane Chamakh to release Van Persie on the edge of the Fulham area.

The in-form Dutchman needed no second invitation, killing the pass with his first touch before dispatching a low strike into the bottom left corner to level on 29 minutes and take his tally to nine in consecutive away games.

Arsenal were, however, soon back on the defensive.

Thomas Vermaelen produced a brilliant goal-line tackle after Danny Murphy had barged into the six-yard box and stabbed the ball past Wojciech Szczesny.

At the start of the second half, Van Persie was booked for protesting after referee Martin Atkinson failed to award a foul when he was checked by Brede Hangeland.

Schwarzer denied Arsenal again with another fine save, this time turning Nasri's goalbound free-kick over the crossbar.

Fulham were back in the lead after 57 minutes when Jonathan Greening darted into the left side of the Arsenal box, before chipping the ball across goal where Zamora nodded in at the near post.

Szczesny was off his line quickly to deny Zamora the chance to poke home a third as Arsenal were on the back foot.

There was a let-off for Fulham, though, when Schwarzer spilled Van Persie's right-wing cross, but Chamakh could only stab the loose ball wide.

Arsenal made a triple substitution on 64 minutes, replacing Aaron Ramsey with Walcott, Diaby with Andrey Arshavin and Gibbs with Emmanuel Eboue.

With news filtering through of Manchester City taking a 2-0 lead at Bolton, Arsenal looked certain to finish fourth.

Arshavin almost released Wilshere with a neat pass, but the ball just ran away from the England youngster.

With 20 minutes left, Zamora, appearing to be carrying an injury, was replaced by Gera, who looks set to leave at the end of his contract this summer.

The Hungarian was soon walking off again however after his lunging two-foot challenge on Vermaelen was punished with a straight red card on 74 minutes.

With Fulham hoping to stay high in the Fair Play League table, and earn a chance at European football again in the summer, it could yet prove a costly dismissal.

Arshavin flashed a low drive just wide, before Walcott levelled in the final minute when his shot went in off the far post.

Source: ESPN Soccernet on 22 May 11

Wenger's reaction to the Fulham 2-2 Arsenal match

on his thoughts on the game…
I thought it was an average game. In the end, we felt fourth place was disappointing because, three weeks ago, we were in a position to win the league. We didn’t lose third place today, we lost it last week.

on having to qualify for the Champions League…
It is less reassuring than being in the top three, of course. The most important thing is that we have given ourselves a chance to do it.

on whether he was disappointed with Arsenal’s defending…
Yes. We are frustrated and disappointed but we should not go overboard. We just have to rectify things in the areas that we need to improve.

on the season as a whole…
I think I am responsible for the results and I am very disappointed. The players have had an outstanding attitude. We have accumulated disappointments that have had a big impact on the moral of the team. We have played 58 games. Fabregas has played 22 games, Van Persie 18 or 19 games and Vermaelen has played four or five games. In decisive moments, we have never had the whole team together. We have to rectify some things in our squad and we will try to do it. But it is not easy, even with money.

on Arsenal’s away support…
Our away fans have been outstanding all season and we would like to thank them. They are not happy, I am not happy, and we have to accept that. But we are not to go overboard. Maybe one year you will realise that it is not easy to finish in the top four every time. Even if people say we have to spend money, we have to be realistic. We cannot buy players for £50 million and, even if we try to strengthen our team and spend money if needed, that is fact.

on Jack Wilshere’s situation with the England Under-21s…
I don’t know any more than you about that. I [have] told you my thinking. You could see again today that he has played 49 games. To have a busy summer would be very bad for him. If they do it, they do it. I cannot stop it.

on his plans for the summer…
We will try to do the right thing. I don’t know how much we have spent in recent years. We will try to buy the right players. The amount of money is not always linked with the quality of the player. We will spend the needed money but you first have to find the right players and then turn up with the money. If we find the right players we will spend the money.

on Zoltan Gera’s red card…
It was a rash tackle. Did he deserve a red card? I will have to look at it again but it was not needed.

on Denilson’s pre-match comments…
He wants to play. I have spoken to him already. We will see if he has opportunities or not. We have to face many comments but I have enough experience to know that the Club is in a strong position and we want to be stronger next year. Next year we will have the same opponents who will invest a lot of money. We have to make sure we climb up the table because I felt this year was the best chance for the last five or six years.

Source: Arsenal.com on 22 May 11

22 May 2011: Fulham 2-2 Arsenal, Craven Cottage

Arsenal will finish the 2010/11 Premier League season in fourth place.

Arsène Wenger’s side went into the final day hoping to sneak back above Manchester City but, in the end, only plundered a point thanks to Theo Walcott’s 89th-minute equaliser. And even that was irrelevant as Roberto Mancini’s men won at Bolton.

Steve Sidwell gave the home side the lead midway through the first half only for Robin van Persie to grab an excellent equaliser three minutes later.

Fulham took control after the break and deservedly regained the lead when Bobby Zamora nodded home from close range. However, the game changed when Zoltan Gera was sent off for a reckless foul on Thomas Vermaelen.

It handed the impetus to Arsenal and, just before the whistle, Walcott fired beyond Mark Schwarzer to preserve a point.

The draw was just about fair but it was not enough to bring that Champions League group spot.

However the point of a League competition is that it reflects your standard over the longer term - and

Wenger’s side are where they are. It could have been a lot better, it could have been worse.

But we all hope it will improve next term.

There was an overwhelming end-of-season feel to this game but, in fact, both sides had something at stake.

Arsenal’s target was clear while Fulham needed to win here and see Chelsea beat Everton in order to record their joint highest placing in the top flight.

Johan Djourou was passed fit but Alex Song (knee) and Nicklas Bendtner (hamstring) were missing. Cesc Fabregas (hamstring) had already been ruled out.

It was a blustery day in west London and the swirling wind would affect the first half.

Fulham were lively in the opening stages but their main ploy seemed to involve clipping lofted passes over the Arsenal backline. It troubled the visitors but the tactic was a little 'scattergun' on such a windy day.

The home side had the territorial advantage but did little with it. In fact, despite their pressure, it was Arsenal who created the first clear-cut chance.

In the 18th minute, Bacary Sagna curled a ball to the far post where Kieran Gibbs produced a towering header that forced a fine save out of Schwarzer.

Given their aerial attacks, it was ironic that Fulham went ahead with a slick move on the floor.

In the 26th minute, Zamora escaped on the right and cut the ball back for Sidwell. The Fulham midfielder punished his old side by slotting a simple goal past Wojciech Szczesny.

It was typical of Arsenal in the past couple of months but this afternoon they were level within three minutes.

Abou Diaby won the ball just inside the Arsenal half, slipped past his marker and exchanged passes with Marouane Chamakh before firing a low pass towards Van Persie in the area. The Dutchman’s control was instant and he slipped a shot past Schwarzer.

It was his 18th goal since January 1 in the Premier League season, equaling the record set by Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry. It was also the ninth consecutive Premier League away game in which he has scored.

Seven minutes from half time, Arsenal had a huge let off. Danny Murphy bundled through and his miskick put off Szczesny sufficiently that the ball went through the keeper and trickled towards the line.

Fortunately Vermaelen rushed back and hooked the bobbling ball just past the far post. It was type of defending Arsenal had missed throughout most of the past season.

Just before half-time, Manchester City went ahead at Bolton. If it stayed that way, they would secure third place no matter what Arsenal achieved at Craven Cottage.

They started well enough when Samir Nasri’s free-kick had to be pawed away by the stretching Schwarzer. However, after that, Fulham built up a head of steam and, in the 57th minute, took the lead once more.

Jonathan Greening drove to the byline and clipped a cross to the near post. Zamora rose above Vermaelen to steer home a header.

You could hardly argue with the goal. Overall Arsenal had started the second half in their shell and had been punished.

They nearly got on level terms immediately when Schwarzer spilled Van Persie’s cross into the path of Chamakh. The Moroccan’s first-time effort went just wide.

However Wenger knew his side needed a shake up. So, in the 64th minute, Gibbs, Diaby and Aaron Ramsey came off. Andrey Arshavin, Emmanuel Eboue and Walcott went on.

Simon Davies prodded the ball past the post after confusion in the Arsenal defence. It seemed that Fulham were going to cruise home.

However, 16 minutes from time, Gera was sent off. The Hungarian had only come off the bench four minutes earlier but, after going in two-footed on Vermaelen, referee Martin Atkinson had no choice to show the red card.

It handed the initiative to Arsenal and they nearly equalised when Arshavin drove past the far post after Fulham failed to clear their lines from a corner. Then, seven minutes from the end, Vermaelen headed over.

The dismissal had changed the game and the visitors were in control. A minute from time, Walcott powered down the right and his shot bounced off the inside of the far post before bobbling into the opposite side of the net.

In the end it meant nothing - Manchester City were in control at Bolton and would win 2-0 - but at least it avoided defeat.

To be honest, Wenger’s side needed the end of the season a few games ago.

Now it has arrived, they have the summer to rebuild.

Source: Richard Clarke, Arsenal.com on 22 May 11

Match Preview: Fulham vs Arsenal

“I feel there is something to play for because Man City still have a difficult game at Bolton,” said Arsène Wenger ahead of the trip to Fulham on Sunday. “We know that through our own experience up there."

“So that means it is down to us to just try and win our game. If they win, they win. The most important thing is that we are responsible and fight for our future.”

In truth that battle will be waged all summer.

Three months ago, the Arsenal fans were hopeful that the game at Craven Cottage would not be the last first-team appearance this season. There was the possibility of a Champions League Final at Wembley next weekend or perhaps a tour around Islington in an open-topped bus clutching something silver.

However, as it stands, Wenger’s side are not even in the bronze medal position in the Premier League. Manchester City pushed them down into fourth by beating Stoke on Tuesday.

It leaves Arsenal needing to better the result of Roberto Mancini’s men this weekend to take third and go directly into the Champions League group stage.

Finishing fourth will leave them contemplating not only another hurdle but a summer filled with what-might-have-beens.

“For me there is a massive difference,” said Wenger. “Fourth is playing a qualifier for the Champions League. That is not Champions League. Third is guaranteeing to be in the Champions League.

“But if fourth is a reality, we will have to face that. I believe in the last three months we had a mixture of disappointments and bad luck.

“We can only act on what we have an influence - and that means improving our quality. But when you see again the game we played against Aston Villa, it is unbelievable – some decisions are unexplainable to me in that game. For me, we won, 100 per cent. But we have to accept it, deal with it and come back even stronger.

“[Failure] is a big name,” the Frenchman went on. “Overall I think we have been consistent. So it is more what I would call a big frustration because we were very close in all the competitions and we missed out on very little.

“We cannot say we are happy but as well we cannot say that it is a disaster. Overall I think that's the closest we have been to winning the title in recent years."

“That's why it's even more frustrating because if you look at the way we lost the games in the decisive moments it's clear that we need to add some maturity to our team. For example the way we lost in the Carling Cup Final, against Liverpool and the way we dropped points against Bolton in the last minute."

“So of course I feel the nerves played a part more than the talent in the fact we did not win the title.”

Samir Nasri (hamstring), Gael Clichy (hamstring) and Abou Diaby (calf) all face late tests ahead of the trip across the capital. Cesc Fabregas (thigh) certainly misses out while Johan Djourou (ankle) is hoping to be back.

If Fulham pip Arsenal and Chelsea beat Everton, then Mark Hughes’ side will finish seventh – equalling their highest ever placing in the top-flight. There is also the possibility of a Europa League place via the Fair Play League.

Fulham’s strength remains their defence – it is the best outside the top four. Meanwhile it is pertinent for Arsenal that 30 per cent of their goals have come from headers – the highest proportion in the top flight.

“They are a good side,” said Wenger. “They have a good technical level and they have a big squad. They lost at home to Liverpool and after that they won at Birmingham having changed players in the squad."

“We will try to win the game, it’s as simple as that. A draw could be good enough if Man City lose at Bolton. I do not want to have any regrets now and so I just want to win the game.”

During his media work, Wenger was asked if he could ‘guarantee’ a trophy next season. It was a strange suggestion given that the experience of the last few months had demonstrated why that word is simply not present in footballing lexicon.

“I promise Arsenal fans that we will give our best to win trophies,” Wenger replied. “Who can guarantee that they will deliver trophies? We will give our best to do it and that is our main target.

“And what is a trophy? Is to finish tenth and win the Carling Cup a trophy? No.

“What I want to achieve is to keep the consistency in our quality, in our table position and deliver what I call trophies - the Premier League and the Champions League. You can say you will give the maximum to do it but you cannot guarantee that. You can only do that if you are crazy.”

Arsenal’s late demise has driven everyone a little mad to be honest. It has been fist-gnawing fare that only a masochist could enjoy.

However Sunday still has a huge significance. Mistakes and misfortune have been costly this term but finishing fourth impacts on the next campaign as well.

Arsenal have unraveled and the prevailing mood is thunderous. But, whisper it quietly, they just might have been overpunished for their slips. Some final-day fortune may redress the balance somewhat.

Let's be clear, third place is not a trophy. Third place is not what anyone wanted.

But if Arsenal could just squeeze above Manchester City then they might be able to feel a little better about the concluding campaign.

And, of course, next term would be a little easier too.

Source: Richard Clarke, Arsenal.com on 21 May 11

Miyaichi to join Arsenal for pre-season

Arsène Wenger has revealed that Ryo Miyaichi will link up with Arsenal in pre-season so the manager can assess whether he is ready for the first team.

The Japanese forward signed a long-term contract with the Club in January and immediately joined Dutch giants Feyenoord on loan in order to help his adjustment to European football while awaiting the work permit he requires to play in England.

Miyaichi was an instant hit in the Eredivisie, going straight into Mario Beem’s side and impressing during his five-month stay, prompting Wenger to take a closer look at the 18-year-old’s progress.

“I have only [heard] positive reports about him,” said Wenger. “He will be with us in pre-season.

“I think he is good enough but if he is ready enough to have a place in our team, we will ask for a work permit and try to get him in.

“What I like about Ryo is that he has good timing with his runs and understands when to go and where to go. That is something very important. He knows how to use his pace and he is an intelligent player."

“He is a boy who went straight from school football to professional football and straight away was the best player in Feyenoord.”

Miyaichi’s application for a work permit could be aided by a call-up to the Japanese Under-23 squad aiming to qualify for the 2012 Olympics.

“That is a good help,” said Wenger. “An even better help is putting him straight in the [Japanese] first team, then we do not need a work permit any more."

“He looks a very promising boy and everybody who went to watch him has been hugely impressed by him. He is a character and a great football player.”

Source: Giuseppe Muro, Arsenal.com on 19 May 11

Parker can be short-term fix for Arsenal

As a half-empty Emirates Stadium witnessed Arsenal embarking upon what, technically speaking, has to be termed a lap of honour - although the grim expressions on their faces indicated otherwise - a typical Arsene Wenger signing had just completed a virtuoso performance 200 miles further north.

Young, quick and French, Charles N'Zogbia appears a prototype of Arsenal recruits (although the cynical might argue that, with his end-of-season excellence, he would be an exception in the current crop of Gunners). Yet while N'Zogbia's scintillating performance on Sunday handed Wigan a lifeline and helped relegate West Ham, it should prompt Wenger to act in a very different way.

Experienced, English and vocal, Scott Parker is everything the majority of the Arsenal team are not. After a campaign when even the most ardent disciple of Wenger may conclude that the Frenchman's blueprint is flawed, the newly-crowned Footballer of the Year is an obvious and available antidote to many of Arsenal's failings.

Without reinforcing the spine of the side, there is a risk that next season could conform to the pattern established over the last few years, of nearly men who contrive to repeat their past mistakes. Of the quartet of positions where Arsenal can lack the knowhow to close out games or the ruthlessness to decide them - goalkeeper, central defence, central midfield and striker - Robin van Persie's fine form makes the last the least pressing priority, while Thomas Vermaelen's injury problems, coupled with the underachievement of Sebastien Squillaci and Laurent Koscielny, means the back four requires urgent attention.

While Wenger tends to stockpile players who can operate in the middle of the pitch, however, several should be concerned about their future. Denilson has regressed, Abou Diaby has marred further indications of his potential with moments to illustrate why he continues to frustrate and Tomas Rosicky, a nominally attack-minded footballer who appears to have abandoned all interest in scoring goals, has rarely resembled the shining talent seen before a serious hamstring injury derailed his Arsenal career.

Moreover, while the athletic Alex Song is nominally the defensive midfielder, the Cameroonian doesn't always shield the back four with the rigorousness Parker can. The 30-year-old possesses the stamina and the long-range shooting to make him more than simply a holding player but, in superior sides, that is likely to be his lot. That he combined well with Jack Wilshere in England's March win over Wales is a promising sign and, while his game may not be ideally suited for the Champions League, a competitor is well equipped to win the midfield battlegrounds of the Premier League.

Yet the case for Parker is about more than simply his tackling or his tireless running. A never-say-die attitude has been apparent in West Ham's car crash of a campaign; it is something Arsenal have lacked in a traumatic two-and-a-half months since their Carling Cup final defeat to Birmingham. In a season where the captain's armband has been worn by such unlikely and uninspiring leaders as Rosicky, Squillaci and Manuel Almunia, the reliance on Cesc Fabregas and Van Persie to rouse their colleagues has been exacerbated. Arsenal's organic method has produced technicians, but not towering personalities.

While Wenger has long been reluctant to pay sizeable fees, or even to award lengthy contracts, to players in the second half of their careers, he set a precedent last summer by buying Squillaci. If he can break his self-imposed rules for such an undistinguished player, it makes more sense to waive them to recruit the man voted the division's outstanding individual.

Admittedly, were Parker to stay three or four years, there would be a minimal return on Arsenal's investment and Wenger's economics degree was evidence of his financial acumen long before he was making huge profits on Nicolas Anelka, Marc Overmars, Emmanuel Petit, Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor.

But the equation of supply and demand can be altered by circumstances and while there is likely to be interest in Parker from elsewhere (Tottenham have twice attempted to buy him and the midfielder's late father, Mick, was a Spurs fan), the sellers are compromised by their predicament.

Quite simply, beggars can't be choosers. West Ham cannot complain about the state of their finances - as their owners do - and then expect anyone to pay over the odds for their players, especially when relegation means their departure becomes inevitable. In other words, Parker should be available below his market value.

The other element is the motivation of a man who has won silverware for his personal achievements to help a team succeed. The intelligent addition of the occasional old head can be catalytic, as Gerard Houllier showed when Gary McAllister played a pivotal part in helping Liverpool win three cups in 2000-01. Sir Alex Ferguson is not averse to restoring veterans to a stage they had vacated and, if signing Laurent Blanc backfired, buying Edwin van der Sar has proved a masterstroke. Reproduce his West Ham form and Parker has the potential to be as influential. While Wenger invariably looks long-term, the short-term fix is just across the capital, looking for new employment.

Source: Norman Hubbard, ESPN Soccernet on 19 May 11

Wenger's view: Arsenal 1-2 Aston Villa

Wenger: Fans have a right to boo

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger accepts Arsenal fans have every right to vent their frustrations after his team's final home game of the season ended with boos ringing out around Emirates Stadium following a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa.

Thousands of Arsenal fans had already headed for the exit doors ahead of the squad's lap of appreciation. Wenger, though, said: "It was our job to thank the fans and you never have to be embarrassed when you do your job.

"It was not a tour of glory, of course, but I think, no matter what happens, you have to respect your fans for turning up for the whole season. You have to accept that [some left] and you have to thank those who are still in the stand.

"What is important is that this club has values and respects those values. We are in a job where you have to please people and if they are not happy, we have to accept that.''

Wenger added: "The fans will not check how much money we spend, they want to win football games. When we don't, they are not happy and that is completely normal. We will try to strengthen our team, of course, but the best way to keep our fans happy is to win the games.''

Arsenal, though, looked anything but likely to repeat the victory over champions Manchester United here two weeks ago and the manager readily acknowledged his side had played for a slow start. "We were caught on a very bad start. We became stronger as the game went on and on top of that we were a bit unlucky,'' Wenger said.

"I feel we had a penalty, a goal that I have not seen cancelled often away from home. We were punished because we went into the game too tentative. We have been hit very hard by bad results and you could see that at the start of the game, but we have to rise above that. Once we were in the game we looked comfortable, but it was too late.''

And the Frenchman admitted it would be a big blow if his side are overhauled by City and need to go through qualifying for the Champions League. "We dropped three points today which could cost us the automatic qualification for the Champions League,'' he said. "That would be a big setback, but we will adapt our preparation in pre-season to it.''

Centre-back Thomas Vermaelen made his long-awaited return from eight months out with an Achilles problem, but took time to grow into the game alongside Sebastien Squillaci, who was substituted at half-time in a tactical change. "They are two players with experience so normally it should work,'' said Wenger.

"Vermaelen grew stronger and stronger as the game went on and they have not played since September, so it is a lot to ask to be dominant like he was before. But I believe we gave very cheap goals away today.''

Wenger, meanwhile, revealed captain Cesc Fabregas will not play again this season for club or country because of a thigh injury, while France midfielder Samir Nasri is also struggling with a hamstring problem. Villa were in need of at least a point to mathematically secure their top-flight status and produced a display worthy of their vocal travelling support.

"You have to be happy with everything,'' said assistant manager Gary McAllister. "It has been a good day, with a great performance and result. There has not been a great deal to shout about, but the journey home will be sweet and we appreciate the support because it is not been a great year but they stuck by us.''

McAllister hailed Bent's contribution. "Darren has been class since the first minute he arrived and has been excellent around the place,'' he said. "People raised eyebrows at the £18million fee at the start of the transfer window, but by the end of the month when there was a few gone for £50m and £35m, I think he is looking at not a bad buy.''

Source: ESPN Soccernet on 15 May 11

Bent double ensures Villa survival

Arsenal's frustrating end to the season continued as Aston Villa ran out 2-1 winners at Emirates Stadium after an early brace from Darren Bent.

The Gunners are now in real danger of seeing FA Cup winners Manchester City, who have a match in hand, overtake them in the race for automatic Champions League qualification after a third defeat in four games.

Bent struck twice inside the opening 15 minutes following more poor defending from Arsene Wenger's men.

While the Gunners boss will no doubt point to key decisions from referee Michael Oliver to turn down a first-half penalty shout and then rule out a close-range header from substitute Marouane Chamakh before Robin van Persie bundled home a late consolation, the boos which rang out at the final whistle sent a clear message that more of the same next season will not be tolerated.

There were plenty of empty seats at kick-off for the final home match in another season which promised so much but failed to deliver.

Wenger, though, used his programme notes to urge supporters - some of whom held protests on their way to the ground with thousands then leaving before the players' lap of appreciation - to continue to trust in his young team, and again pledged he would add "what is needed'' over the summer.

It was a scrappy start by both sides, with no-one really getting hold of midfield possession.

Villa - who were in need of at least a point to mathematically secure their top-flight status - took the lead on 11 minutes.

A simple high ball from Kyle Walker drifted over Sebastien Squillaci and through to an unmarked Bent, who collected it on his chest and turned to volley past Wojciech Szczesny.

Before Arsenal could mount a comeback, they were 2-0 down inside 15 minutes.

A slip from Thomas Vermaelen, on his return from eight months out with an Achilles problem, allowed Ashley Young time on the ball. He slipped a pass through to Bent, with full-back Bacary Sagna left appealing for a non-existent offside as the England striker slotted into the bottom corner.

Villa, who had not won for three games, were in complete control as the Gunners - who just two months ago had genuine hopes of success in all competitions - failed to get out of first gear.

However, Aaron Ramsey felt he should have had a penalty when he was hacked down by Richard Dunne's flying challenge after collecting a chip into the Villa box, but despite replays showing no contact with the ball, referee Oliver was unconvinced and waved play on.

Van Persie was unfortunate not to be rewarded for his industry when collecting the ball in the left side of the penalty area, and twice turning defenders before a low strike across the face of goal came back off the post.

Arsenal had left the field with boos from disgruntled sections of the Emirates Stadium faithful ringing in their ears - and the substitution of the hapless Squillaci for Morocco striker Chamakh was greeted with sarcastic cheers.

A slip from Alex Song, dropped into the centre-back role, was almost punished as Bent raced clear, but Vermaelen recovered enough ground as the striker's shot-under-pressure was straight at Szczesny.

Arsenal were camped in Villa's half, yet without finding any creativity in the final third or halted by an offside flag.

When Van Persie did open up the defence after a neat one-two with Kieran Gibbs, Friedel made a smart save at his near post.

Szczesny twice denied Villa a third, first from Young's 20-yard effort and then beating away a follow-up from Stewart Downing at the near post.

Chamakh - whose last league goal came against Villa away in November when the Gunners could do no wrong - saw his close-range header ruled out for a push on Walker, with contact looking minimal at best.

Friedel denied Van Persie after the Dutchman was played in on the right side of the Villa penalty area.

Arsenal finally bundled the ball in through Van Persie during the final minute of normal time, but it was too little too late, as injured captain Cesc Fabregas was left to lead his team around the stadium once more with a sense of what might have been.

Source: ESPN Soccernet on 15 May 11

Pat Rice set to carry on at Arsenal

Assistant manager Pat Rice is set to carry on at Arsenal.

Arsène Wenger had feared the 62-year-old Irishman may retire at the end the current campaign. However the 1971 Double winner has indicated he will prolong an association with the Club going back almost half a century.

“I think Pat will continue for one more year,” said Wenger, who appointed Rice to his current role when he arrived at Arsenal in 1996. “He has told me that.

“This is important for me because he knows how I work. We have a good understanding, he is a compliment to me.

“The day he stops will be a massive loss. So I am happy that he goes on for one more year.”

However Wenger revealed that he will may add to his backroom staff over the summer.

“We always need [fresh ideas] and I am thinking about it,” said the manager.

“I don’t know yet if I’ll bring in someone. I cannot tell you yes or no because I have not made that decision.”

However Wenger did quash stories that he was about to bring in former Charlton boss Phil Parkinson.

Source: Arsenal.com on 15 May 11

Darren Bent's first-half double for Aston Villa stuns Arsenal

The Arsenal support voted with their feet, as much as their voices, after watching a performance that was typical, in so many ways, of their team's frustrating season. Despite being on the front foot for much of the match, they struggled to capitalise on their chances, while at the back, they undermined themselves grotesquely. Throw in unhealthy doses of bad luck and you get the general picture.
Booed off at half-time and full time, Arsenal had to endure a lap of honour in a stadium that was barely a third full. The fans continue to rage at next season's 6.5% ticket-price hikes, while the six-year trophy drought has fuelled discontent.

The team now face a battle to finish in third place; if Manchester City were to win their remaining two fixtures, Arsenal would be pressed into an unwanted Champions League qualifier. "It will be a big setback [to finish fourth] but we will adapt our pre-season preparations to it," said the manager, Arsène Wenger.

The post-match lap was excruciating, although most of the fans who stayed did their best to drown out the jeers. Wenger and plenty of the players looked like they wanted to be elsewhere and perhaps some of them will be next season. Uncertainty clouds the futures of Cesc Fábregas, Samir Nasri and Gaël Clichy, with each of the trio missing this game through injury. Wenger said that Fábregas had suffered a setback in relation to his thigh problem and was "out for three to four weeks", while he gave Nasri "very little chance" of making the Fulham game on Sunday.

Wenger lamented the "tentative" and "nervous" start that his team made, but his misery was Aston Villa's joy. Twice in the first 15 minutes, Darren Bent was given sniffs of goal, following sloppy Arsenal defending and, on both occasions, he finished in predatory fashion. The boyhood Arsenal supporter has made a habit of punishing the club. He now has six goals in 10 appearances against them, including the last-minute equaliser for Sunderland last September.

Bent's first goal was of the highest order. He leapt to control Kyle Walker's floated ball with his chest before, acrobatically and off-balance, dinking a right-footed volley past Wojciech Szczesny. The defensive inquest, though, would surely have been gory. Sébastien Squillaci, in for Johan Djourou, who is nursing an ankle injury, was guilty of ball-watching and he allowed Bent to tiptoe in behind him.

Worse was to follow. After Thomas Vermaelen, playing his first club football since last August, had slipped to allow Ashley Young to take James Collins's pass and get his head up, Squillaci once again allowed Bent in on his blind side and the striker side-footed home. Squillaci was substituted at the interval, with Wenger preferring to ask the midfielder Alex Song to drop back to fill the position. Squillaci's debut season at the club has been pockmarked by disasters. This was a new low.

"Bent has been class from the moment we signed him in January," said Gary McAllister, Villa's caretaker manager. "And Stewart Downing and Ashley Young were also electric. Two of Arsenal's back four were ring rusty and we caught them a wee bit."

Little went right for Arsenal. They rallied in the first half only to be denied a penalty for Richard Dunne's borderline challenge on Aaron Ramsey, while Van Persie watched a low shot hit the far post. Arsenal controlled the second half and they created a clutch of chances, but the substitute Marouane Chamakh had a header harshly ruled out for a push, and Van Persie's close-range finish, his 21st goal of the season, proved scant consolation.

The home crowd had voiced their frustration midway through the second period, after the attendance was announced over the PA system, together with the promise of the lap of honour. According to the official figures, the stadium was sold out, yet the empty seats showed that thousands had stayed away. The chant went up, "Six per cent, you're having a laugh," in reference to the price rises.

Villa's fans had a whale of a time but plenty of their counterparts had made for the exits long before full time and the players' shuffle around the pitch. "It was not a tour of glory," Wenger said, "but you have to respect your fans for turning up all season. It was not embarrassing. When people are not happy, they can show it."

Source: David Hytner, The Guardian on 15 May 11

Wenger's reaction to the Arsenal 1-2 Aston Villa match

on the result...
It's very disappointing because we were caught on a very bad start. After that we became stronger as the game went on and we were a bit unlucky on top of that. So we come out of the game very disappointed. We dropped three points today which could cost us the automatic qualification for the Champions League.

on a slow start to the game...
We were punished because we went into the game too tentative. We were not dominant enough in anything we did and we were on the back foot at the start. After that we battled to get back into the game but we were a bit unlucky. I feel we had a penalty, a goal that I have not seen cancelled often away from home. Overall of course we are frustrated and I am frustrated by the performance.

on the reason for their tentativeness...
We have been hit very hard by bad results and you could see that at the start of the game, we suffered a little bit. But we have to rise above that and overall you could see we were a bit nervous defensively. Once we were in the game we looked comfortable but it was too late.

on Squillaci and Vermaelen's partnership...
They are two players with experience so normally it should work. Vermaelen grew stronger and stronger as the game went on and they have not played since September so it is a lot to ask to be dominant like he was before. I believe we gave very cheap goals away today.

on his half-time substitution...
I was in a position where we had to take a gamble, we had to score two goals. Because they closed us down we had to play out from the back and we needed somebody - a midfielder - at the back.

on the prospect of finishing fourth…
It will be a big set-back but we will adapt our preparation in pre-season to it.

on the 'lap of appreciation'…
It was our job to thank the fans and you never have to be embarrassed when you do your job. It was not a tour of glory, of course. But I think, no matter what happens, you have to respect your fans for turning up for the whole season. It is not an ego trip, it is a respect trip for the fans.

on fans leaving the stadium beforehand…
You have to accept that and you have to thank those who are still in the stand. What is important is that this Club has values and respects those values. I feel fortunate that for 15 years we have played with full stands so when people are not happy they can show it. We are in a job where you have to please people and if they are not happy, we have to accept that.

on whether he feels pressure to spend money…
The fans want to win football games. They will not check how much money we spend, they want to win football games. When we don’t, they are not happy and that is completely normal. We will try to strengthen our team, of course, but the best way to keep our fans happy is to win the games.

Source: Arsenal.com on 15 May 11

15 May 2011: Arsenal 1-2 Aston Villa, Emirates Stadium

Arsenal’s pursuit of third place in the Premier League is now out of their hands.

A deeply disappointing 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at Emirates Stadium on Sunday means Manchester City will leapfrog Arsène Wenger’s side if they win their final two games.

Both teams are assured Champions League football next season but the third-place side will go straight in to the Group Stage while fourth place will have to take their chances in the Qualifying Round. It is a significant difference.

Villa grabbed the game in the opening 15 minutes. Arsenal were slow out of the blocks and Darren Bent scored twice. He volleyed in from Kyle Walker’s punt forward in the 12th minute and, shortly afterwards, slotted home after Ashley Young sent him clear.

Arsenal’s response might have been very different had Richard Dunne been penalised for clipping Aaron Ramsey in the area as he seemed set to score towards the end of the first half. The home side scrapped away in search of a goal but they have been struggling in recent games and, though they pressed back Villa, they could not find a way through until Robin van Persie prodded home in the last minute.

Injury time was frantic but fruitless. Arsenal must now rely on Manchester City to stumble in similar fashion in their final two games or they will face a busy start to the next campaign.

The main team news concerned the centre back position. Thomas Vermaelen started his first game after nine months out of the Arsenal side with an Achilles problem. His partner this afternoon was Sebastien Squillaci as Johan Djourou, who had been nursing his way through training since the Manchester United game with an ankle problem, was missing.

Laurent Koscielny had been ruled out with a thigh problem. Cesc Fabregas (thigh) and Samir Nasri (hamstring) had failed fitness tests on Saturday as neither appeared this afternoon. Youngsters Ignasi Miquel and Conor Henderson were named on the bench.

Arsenal had begun the day in third - three points behind Chelsea and two ahead of Manchester City in fourth. A late equaliser by Newcastle at Stamford Bridge in the early kick-off had given Wenger’s men a reasonable shout of second but, in reality, their main task in the final 180 minutes of the season was to secure third. However, this afternoon, they started slowly and would find themselves 2-0 by the quarter-hour.

The first came when Walker’s lofted pass was controlled and volleyed past Wojciech Szczesny with precision by Bent.

Four minutes later James Collins’ free-kick found Young. His marker, Vermaelen, slipped allowing the England winger to find Bent in space. He slotted home his ninth goal for Villa since a big-money move from Sunderland in January.

Emirates Stadium was stunned into silence while the Villa fans, who had been vocal in the opening stages anyway, cranked up the volume.

By the midway point of the half, Arsenal had started to stir. Villa had been much the better side in the opening 10 minutes and deserved their first. The second rubbed salt in the wound.

On the half-hour, referee Michael Oliver had to make a major call when Dunne felled Aaron Ramsey after the Welshman seemed set to pull the trigger 12 yards out. The defender certainly got the man, the question was whether he got the ball. Replays suggested it was 50:50 but, as we already knew, this was not looking like Arsenal’s day.

However the home side had finally found their feet. Van Persie and Bacary Sagna saw deflected shots fly wide. Then, in the 36th minute, the Dutchman weaved himself some space in the area before firing his cross-shot against the base of the far post. The move ended in a corner, which Vermaelen deposited just over the bar.

However, Arsenal’s head of steam rather blew itself out as half-time approached.

The home fans showed their displeasure as the teams went down the tunnel. Defeat this afternoon would mean Manchester City had third place in their hands.

Wenger's actions at the break suggested he was well aware. He withdrew Squillaci for Marouane Chamakh and pulled Alex Song into central defence.

However Villa nearly caught Arsenal cold once again. Bent burst through in the opening minutes with Vermaelen on his tail. Fortunately for Arsenal, the Villa striker blasted his hat-trick chance straight at Szczesny.

This time, however, Arsenal wrestled control of the game quickly. In the 56th minute, Van Persie set up Kieran Gibbs but Brad Freidel pulled off an excellent block from close range. On the hour, the Dutchman fired over and, just after replacing Andrey Arshavin, Nicklas Bendtner set up Theo Walcott to stab a shot past the upright.

Ramsey fired over and Walcott saw a drive deflect wide. But in between Villa had a better opportunity when Stewart Downing thumped a near-post drive at Szczesny. The Pole held on at the second attempt.

Thirteen minutes from time, Arsenal seemed to have grabbed a lifeline when Chamakh headed home. But referee Oliver felt the Moroccan had pushed Walker in the build-up. Seconds later, Friedel made another fine save from the same player.

As we entered the final 10 minutes, desperation had set in. Arsenal were on the attack incessantly but those early goals had put Villa in a position to defend and threaten on the break. Excellent displays from the centre backs and keeper had snuffed out Arsenal’s response.

With a minute left, the home side finally broke through. Sagna’s cross was collected by Bendtner but then lost as he tried to weave through traffic in the area. However the ball fell to Van Persie, who prodded home his 21st goal of the season.

Arsenal threw the ball into the area in added time as they searched for the equaliser but the whistle seemed inevitable.

As a consequence, the team’s lap of appreciation to the fans was a little muted. This was an unhappy dénouement to the campaign at Emirates but in a way perhaps it was fitting because it was here, more than anywhere, that Arsenal’s title bid had faltered.

However at least there is Champions League football to saviour next season.

Source: Richard Clarke, Arsenal.com on 15 May 11

Arsène Wenger says keeping star players is Arsenal's transfer priority

Arsène Wenger has admitted his priority at Arsenal in the summer transfer market is to retain his star players, as he continues to face questions over Samir Nasri's intentions, not to mention those of Cesc Fábregas.

There is little doubt that the Arsenal manager's attitude in relation to Nasri, whose contract expires in June 2012, has changed, from a position of relaxed confidence a few months ago to one of curt defensiveness. Arsenal had been expected to announce that the midfielder had agreed fresh terms in February only for nothing to materialise and it was then agreed that further negotiations would be postponed until the end of the season. Nasri's form has tailed off during the period.

If it feels risky, to say the least, for the club to allow one of their key performers to enter the final 12 months of his deal, then it is also ominous to see Nasri linked to the leading clubs in Spain.

"I never speak about the conversations I have with the players," he said, when asked about whether Nasri had given him any assurances that he wanted to re-sign. "I will do everything possible to make him stay."

Wenger said he was hopeful of keeping Nasri but he added that there was no gentleman's agreement in place for that to happen. He confirmed that talks remained on hold until after the club's final game of the season, away to Fulham on Sunday week.

Gaël Clichy is another Arsenal regular with one year to run on his contract who is keeping his options open – Juventus have shown they want to sign him – while Fábregas continues to be linked with a move away, after another trophyless season. Manchester City are the latest club to be credited with a serious interest in him.

"That doesn't worry me," Wenger said. "I haven't heard that, I have not seen that anywhere. If they want to buy a player, the best way is to call me. The first target is not to weaken our team but to strengthen it.

"We are looking to strengthen every year [but] first, we look not to weaken because we want to keep all our players, and then try to strengthen. It's not the number [of new signings], it's the quality. I don't want to give out a number."

The postmortem has already opened on Arsenal's season but Wenger stressed the importance of seeing out the final two matches, starting with Saturday's visit of Aston Villa, to ensure that they finished in third place, at least, to avoid the need to play a qualifying tie to enter the Champions League group phase. They are two points clear of fourth-placed City. "It is ideal not to play an important game in pre-season," he said.

Looking ahead to next season, Wenger predicted another struggle, in which nothing could be guaranteed. "People take it for granted that we are in the top four every year but, believe me, it is hard work," he said. "It is not guaranteed for anyone to be in there – not even Manchester United."

With Laurent Koscielny injured, Thomas Vermaelen is in line to make his first appearance for the club since last August.

Source: David Hytner, The Guardian on 14 May 11

Wenger hopes for improvements

Arsene Wenger feels Arsenal's shortcomings this season can be solved both on the training pitch and in the transfer market.

The Gunners host Aston Villa on Sunday looking to stay ahead of FA Cup finalists Manchester City in third and secure automatic qualification for next season's Champions League.

However, Wenger knows the campaign should be drawing to a close without another sense of frustration after six trophyless years. The Gunners boss accepts his young squad need a bit of help to "get over the line'' in 2011-12, having seen the season quickly unravel after suffering a shock defeat to Birmingham in the Carling Cup final. Wenger, though, is confident major surgery is not needed, more perhaps a change in focus.

"The players had a fantastic attitude for the whole season and I am frustrated because they have not been rewarded,'' said the Arsenal manager. "The players have produced every single effort they could on the pitch, but maybe we were a bit to nervous when we had to cross the line.

"In the final minutes of big games, we lost and it was not down to the fact the players did not want it, they want to do well and have been remarkable, but we lacked a bit of calm in some situations. Experience will help with that and also the transfer market will help as well.''

Wenger maintains there have been positives from a "frustrating'' season. "We do not feel that we under-performed overall because we were in the Carling Cup final, the quarter-final of the FA Cup against Manchester United, where we lost three days after [going out to] Barcelona [in the Champions League], so we produced quality games and at the end of the day there are objective signs for us that show we have the quality,'' he said.

"We feel we have made up some of the gap between us and the top teams from the seasons before - we are top of the league in the top four of Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City, so we have every reason to be frustrated.''

Despite United having all but wrapped up the title with victory over Chelsea last weekend, Wenger maintains there is still all to play for behind the champions elect. Arsenal are two points ahead of City and three behind Chelsea with two games left.

"We can still catch the second place and we can finish second, third or fourth, depending on our results,'' he said. "Of course we want to finish in the top three and if possible second. It is not unrealistic [to finish second] when you are just three points behind. Manchester City can want third place because they are only two points behind, so it is open.''

Wenger is expected to add some experienced cover over the summer, most notably in defence. However, the Arsenal manager will not be drawn on potential targets.

"We are looking to strengthen every year. First we look not to weaken because we want to keep all our players, and then try to strengthen,'' he added. "It is not the number, it is the quality. But we don't rule out any position and we don't target any special position before the transfer market.''

Meanwhile, Wenger admitted his surpise at the news that Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has been charged with improper conduct by the Football Association following his comments towards referee Howard Webb.

Wenger quipped: "They are not used to him being complimentary. It was a shock to the FA! It doesn't sound very serious. It doesn't look a major problem to say somebody is good. I wouldn't charge him for that."

Wenger does, however, disagree with managers who speak about referees prior to kick-off, and the Arsenal coach suggested his own system to avoid the problem in future.

He remarked: "Before a game I don't like comments about a referee, you will never hear me saying anything about a referee before the game. After, I can understand that a manager should have freedom to express his frustrations sometimes.

"I personally believe we should not know the name of the referee before the game. It should be drawn 48 hours before the game, and therefore nobody should know the name of the referee. That would keep anybody out of problems before the game.

"England is not a massive country. If referees are known to have a liking for a certain club, keep them out of the draw [for the team in question]. But I believe this is the best way to take suspicion away. Same for Europe, because you've had problems before with Barcelona and Real Madrid, once nominations of the referee has taken place."

Source: ESPN Soccernet on 13 May 11

Match Preview: Arsenal vs Aston Villa

Contrary to popular belief Arsenal’s season is very much alive.

OK, their fading, flickering chance of silverware was extinguished in that 3-1 defeat at Stoke last Sunday. But if the minds of Arsène Wenger’s side are already ‘on the beach’ then, come August, they may just find Manchester City have placed their towels on that highly-prized Champions League sun-lounger.

The Eastlands side secured their place in the competition in midweek with a 1-0 win over Tottenham. But fourth place means a qualifier – and a disrupted pre-season. Third means you can relax until the group stages.

Meanwhile Arsène Wenger is still eying second.

Right now, the final 180 minutes of the season feels half-empty not half-full. Realistically, Arsenal need four points to secure third place and the fixtures – Aston Villa at home on Sunday, Fulham away next weekend – seem to be in their favour.

With Manchester City otherwise engaged in the FA Cup Final on Saturday, a victory this weekend would be a giant stride towards a 14th successive stint in the Champions League group stages.

“Our chances of third are quite good and we can still catch the second place,” said Wenger.

“We can finish second, third or fourth depending on our results. Of course we want to finish in the top three and, if possible, second. It is not unrealistic [to finish second] when you are just three points behind but Man City are only two points behind us, so it's open.

“City have lost games as well recently so it is down to us. We need to win our games. Let's beat Aston Villa so we can get five points away from them again.

“The FA Cup is not ideally positioned, I must say, for the League’s interest. But, as well, Chelsea had a huge disappointment on Sunday and it will be difficult for them to recover so we have an opportunity we must take.”

For some, Champions League qualification will be cold comfort for a season that was promising so much at the start of February but tailed-off alarmingly. It is not a trophy but it certainly felt like one for Manchester City on Wednesday, like it did Tottenham 12 months earlier.

It is certain to define next season for Mancini’s men. And it would do the same for Arsenal if they did not reach the groups.

“People take it for granted that we are in there every year,” said Wenger. “ But, believe me, it is hard work. You have clubs like Liverpool who are out of it and Tottenham were a big candidate this season.”

Thomas Vermaelen is likely to make his first appearance in nine months because of the thigh injury picked up by Laurent Koscielny at Stoke last weekend. Gael Clichy missed that game but returns for Villa.

Cesc Fabregas (thigh) and Samir Nasri (hamstring) both face late tests. Abou Diaby (calf) and Tomas Rosicky (thigh) are both ruled out.

Aston Villa have had an unhappy campaign. They achieved safety a few weeks ago but have never found a rhythm after Gerard Houllier took over from Martin O’Neill in pre-season.

Villa have registered just three away wins all season – at Wigan, Wolves and West Ham. But then Arsenal’s form is patchy too. They have won just two of their last nine games.

In the end, this game may suffer from an end-of-season malaise but it really should not. Arsenal still have a job to do.

Wenger defines Champions League qualification as his side’s minimum standard. They either do the job now or leave it till August.

Giving Manchester City a little early-season headache will be no bad thing either. Like the rest of the football world, he expects Roberto Mancini’s side to be serious title challengers next term.

“They will now be contenders, that is for sure,” he said. “It will be easier for them to buy players now they are in the Champions League.

“But you can see they will still have us, Manchester United, Liverpool will come back and Chelsea will invest again.

“Man City were very close last year and then they bought Yaya Toure, Silva and they added Dzeko. They missed out on a Champions League place on the final day of last season so it is not super-surprising where they are.”

The same is true of Arsenal. Trailing Manchester United and/or Chelsea by a small but significant margin has been a regular situation in recent seasons.

The discussion over changing that scenario will dominate the summer. And it can wait till then.
Arsenal’s singular task in the final throes of the season is finish third or above.

Source: Richard Clarke, Arsenal.com on 14 May 11

Nasri wants to stay at Arsenal

Samir Nasri's agent has insisted his client is looking to extend his contract with Arsenal rather than seek a move away from the club.

A season that promised so much for Arsenal fizzled out to nothing and manager Arsene Wenger has hinted widespread changes are likely to be made at Emirates Stadium.

Nasri played a key part in Arsenal's fine run in the early part of the campaign and he has been linked with a move to Italy - with Juventus and Inter Milan reportedly keeping tabs on the France international's situation.

The midfielder has a further season to run on his contract but is keen to secure an extended deal, according to his agent.

"The interest from Juventus and Inter Milan?" Nasri's agent Alain Migliaccio said to Calciomercato.it. "There is nothing happening with them."

"There is no split with Arsenal, far from it. We have started negotiations for the extension of his contract which currently expires in 2012."

Source: ESPN Soccernet on 9 May 11

Nicklas Bendtner 'not satisfied' with bit part role at Arsenal

Nicklas Bendtner has articulated his frustrations once again with his fringe role at Arsenal, admitting he is "not satisfied" and suggesting that he cannot tolerate playing out of position.

The Denmark centre-forward has never made any secret over where he sees himself in Arsène Wenger's starting line-up but, to his dismay, he has often been used on the right flank.

Wenger has said he will meet Bendtner at the end of the season to discuss his future and, as he plans to make changes to the squad, he would like to keep him at the club. But the 23-year-old, who signed for Arsenal in 2005, has made it clear that he cannot wait indefinitely for his opportunity. Bendtner has started only three Premier League games this season.

"I need to have a talk with him [Wenger] because I'm not satisfied as well," Bendtner said. "I'm not satisfied with playing on the right wing which I've done more or less all season long."

"I'm concentrating on getting the Champions League place and then we'll do the evaluation at the end of the season. It's certainly not the best thing for me but it's not up to oneself and sometimes you have to adapt to what the manager says."

To his irritation, Bendtner, who is synonymous with self-confidence, has found himself behind Robin van Persie and Marouane Chamakh in the pecking order for the lone striker role in Wenger's formation.

Source: David Hytner, The Guardian on 10 May 11

Arsenal's title challenge comes to an end with meek surrender at Stoke

Arsenal's disappointing season took another turn for the worse, with a deserved defeat which leaves them with nothing but third place in the Premier League for which to play. Stoke City were supposed to have the FA Cup final on their minds, but still won even more convincingly than the scoreline might suggest.

The crowd were singing about Wembley from the start, and Tony Pulis must have been tempted to rest two or three important players before the final next Saturday. Instead, favouring continuity, he opted to use the match as a rehearsal for the strongest team available.

Robin van Persie spurned an excellent early chance, shooting over at close range, but after that Stoke took command.

These two sides are chalk and cheese in approach, the home fans' preferences vocally expressed when they bellowed "boring" at Arsenal's composed passing game, then cheered loudly when Rory Delap launched one of his howitzer throw‑ins.

The clash produced its first sparks after a quarter of an hour, when the combative Jack Wilshere provoked a melee in the centre circle with an over-the-top tackle on Dean Whitehead. The first goal was the product of further indiscipline by Arsenal, Andrey Arshavin senselessly pushing over Jermaine Pennant in the corner quadrant on the right. Pennant got up and directed the free-kick to the near post where Kenwyne Jones, rushing in, bundled it over the line.

The Potters loved that, taunting their more celebrated visitors with choruses of "one-nil to the rugby team" and "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" – references to Arsène Wenger likening their tactics to the oval‑ball game. They upped the volume again after 39 minutes to celebrate the drive, from the edge of the D, with which Pennant made it 2-0. The ball was deflected upwards by Johan Djourou's desperate lunge, but Wojciech Szczesny should have done better than help it on its way into the net. This time the crowd's ironic taunt was: "We only score from a throw-in."

Remarkably, Stoke were tantalisingly close to scoring a third before half-time, Jonathan Walters shooting against the crossbar from near the byline on the left.

Arshavin and Aaron Ramsey, both poor, were substituted during the interval, but any improvement was negligible and Robert Huth, with a fulminating header, threatened to improve Stoke's advantage. The simmering ill feeling which was never far below the surface boiled over in the 69th minute, when Wilshere was fortunate to escape with only a booking for a bad foul to which Pennant took retaliatory exception. Stoke immediately substituted their enigmatic winger, with next Saturday in mind.

Van Persie finally pulled one back in the 81st minute, with a shot which appeared to go through Asmir Begovic, but Stoke hit back immediately, Walters beating Szczesny from eight yards.

Source: Joe Lovejoy, The Guardian on 8 May 11

Pennant stars as Gunners slump

Stoke once again exposed Arsenal's soft underbelly with a deserved victory which finally extinguished the dying embers of the Gunners' outside chance of making a late run for the Premier League title.

First-half goals from Kenwyne Jones and Jermaine Pennant were conceded far too easily and further defensive weaknesses were exposed after the break as the Londoners got themselves back into the game late on only to throw away their good work seconds later.

Robin van Persie hit his 19th in his last 21 matches, the eighth time in succession he had scored away from home, with less than ten minutes remaining only for Jon Walters to go straight down the other end and make it 3-1.

It was a defeat which put the top of the table beyond reach for Arsene Wenger's side, although in truth they had blown their chances of ended a six-year wait for a trophy several weeks ago.

Much of the pre-match focus had been on the return of midfielder Aaron Ramsey to the ground where he horrifically broke his leg in two places last season and a first meeting with Ryan Shawcross, the player whose tackle inflicted the injury.

As a result, despite Stoke's short time in the Premier League, these two sides have managed to build up plenty of history, with Wenger heavily critical of what he perceives as Stoke's over-physical style. But the more relevant history related to Stoke's threat from set-pieces and Arsenal's tendency to concede soft goals.

Both were prevalent at the Britannia Stadium and contributed significantly to the result. Their problems were mainly all of their own making, typified by the opening goal which was scored with far too much ease.

Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny had already flapped at one cross which Pennant hooked wide when he was left totally exposed by his defence in the 28th minute.

Andrey Arshavin's needless push on Pennant close to the corner flag allowed the winger to clip over a free-kick and Jones, having evaded Johan Djourou far too easily, simply jogged in and let the ball hit him on the chest to divert it over the line.

The lack of effort required by the Trinidad and Tobago international to score against the league's third-placed side was embarrassing and Jones, presumably surprised by such a gift, did not even celebrate.

Arsenal should have been ahead well before that point though as the usually prolific van Persie blazed over from ten yards when put through by Ramsey's through-ball.

Stoke fans' chant of "1-0 to the rugby team'' was aimed at Wenger but the only direct thing about Stoke's second was the run of Pennant.

Cutting in from the left he was allowed to advance unchallenged and when Djourou belatedly came to meet him the winger fired in a shot which deflected off the defender and over Szczesny.

Arsenal were spared further embarrassment by the crossbar just before the break when Walters shot from a narrow angle on the left of the penalty area.

Strikers Nicklas Bendtner and Marouane Chamakh replaced Ramsey and Arshavin for the second half but it was the other end of the pitch where the Gunners were lacking as within seconds of the restart Robert Huth headed over Pennant's corner.

In the ensuing melee Alex Song appeared to catch the defender in the face with an elbow which went unnoticed by referee Mark Halsey.

There was greater concern for Huth when he suffered an injury scare six days before the FA Cup final, limping off with a knee problem.

For all the complaints about Stoke's approach to the game, Bendtner was the first player to be booked when he upended Pennant close to the touchline, although the Stoke winger soon followed into the book for his retaliation to Jack Wilshere's studs-up challenge which also earned him a caution.

As the match entered its closing stages chances came at both ends; Begovic launching himself at Van Persie's feet to block an almost-certain goal and Glenn Whelan forcing Szczesny to tip his shot around the post from a counter-attack.

But with nine minutes remaining Begovic's slip up in allowing van Persie's shot to roll underneath him gave Arsenal a glimmer of hope.

But, true to form, a minute later Djourou's miserable afternoon was complete when his half-clearance fell to Walters who poked home.

Stoke still have a cup final to look forward to, for Arsenal there is only next season.

Source: ESPN Soccernet on 8 May 11

Wenger's reaction to the Stoke City 3-1 Arsenal match

on a disappointing performance…
Yes, it was a disappointing performance. The competitive level of Stoke was higher than ours. I think we lost the game because Stoke defended much better than we did and with much more purpose.

on Arsenal’s inconsistency…
That’s the Premier League. If you do not turn up with the same competitive spirit in every game you can lose games everywhere. Stoke defend well and make it difficult for you. The most important thing here is not to be 1-0 down and with the first free kick we were 1-0 down. In a game like that, we did not penetrate enough. At the end of the day we were not dangerous enough.

on conceding another goal from a set-piece…
We [have] conceded, I think, 21 from set-pieces and only 17 in open play. Less than anybody else in open play [but] we have been caught on set-pieces. Today, [Kenwyne] Jones didn’t even need to jump to head the ball in. That is something we have to correct. It is the easiest thing to correct in the game but you still must understand the flight of the ball and want to be first to the ball. I feel we are sometimes a bit naïve.

on Arsenal’s season…
This team has done well overall this season. This is not the best moment to analyse [the season] after a disappointing game. If you analyse all the competitions and how we have done, we have done well. Something has gone [and] you could see that today. We have to take a distance and make the right analysis of the season.

on Thomas Vermaelen’s return to the squad…
I would love to have had him and maybe I can give him the last two games, I don’t know.

on going 1-0 behind…
I thought Stoke were more competitive than we were. Stoke are a good team. They have a lot of confidence. They have the FA Cup Final [next weekend] and maybe if they had to fight from 1-0 down it would have been different but from 1-0 up they didn’t have a lot to go for. They defended well and caught us on the break.

on Aaron Ramsey’s return to Britannia Stadium…
He did alright, he was not scared. But of course he is still short because he has not played enough games. [Substituting him] was just a tactical thing because we were 2-0 down and needed to go for more penetration. We had a lot of possession but not a lot of progression.

Source: Arsenal.com on 8 May 11