ESPN Soccernet - Correspondents - Arsenal

Posted by David Young on 10/05/2010

The result at Stamford Bridge at the weekend had a depressingly familiar ring about it. In the last eighteen encounters between Arsenal and Chelsea in all competitions the Gunners have only come out on top twice. It is a dismal recent record.

However, the manner of Sunday's defeat was bemusing rather than infuriating. Arsenal actually played alright. They held plenty of possession and created enough chances to have won the match. For once, they didn’t look over-powered by their hosts and looked the better side for long periods of the game. They pinned Chelsea back without, it has to be said, necessarily stretching them to breaking point and produced some good football. And yet, "playing alright" wasn’t good enough and they lost 2-0. So what was missing?

Defensive Lapses Cost Arsenal Dearly at Stamford Bridge ©Getty Images

Arsene Wenger bemoaned the number of missed chances. It’s true that the Gunners could have been a couple of goals up before anybody had even worked up a sweat and further opportunities were created as the match wore on. But that is only half the story. It was two lapses in defence that gave Chelsea their openings and the Blues punished their visitors to maximum effect. Arsenal lost the game because of those mistakes rather than their profligacy at the other end of the pitch.

It has been noted many times on this page - and in the comments that are left on it - that it is not possible to just simply try to out-score your opponents every week. Some days, goals are hard to come by and sometimes you have to be able to keep a clean sheet. The Gunners have done that just once in the Premier League this season when drubbing a Blackpool team reduced to ten men for most of the match back in August.

The post-match rhetoric on Sunday rather missed the point in my view. Yes, Arsenal had a bad day in front of goal but days like that will happen. On the whole, scoring goals has not been too much of a problem so far this season. The bigger concern is that the team seem to find it nearly impossible to keep goals out at the other end. If there are any lessons to be learned from the clash at Stamford Bridge, it is that you cannot afford a single slip in concentration when playing teams like Chelsea and the whole team needs to defend far more meanly.

But even identifying that fact, there is a far bigger underlying worry about this current Arsenal team that was highlighted on Sunday. Despite not being over-powered by Chelsea’s physicality, playing alright and having the better of the possession, did they really show the sort of belief that it takes to beat Chelsea away?

This Arsenal team can produce football that is artful and a joy to behold and, on their day, they have the ability to beat anyone. But the question mark that hangs over their head is: do they truly have the winning mentality that it takes to collect silverware? Or are they destined to be "big match chokers" for the foreseeable future?

The head-to-head statistics with Chelsea over the past eighteen games don’t lie. Chelsea are not a better footballing side than Arsenal but they do show a steelier determination and refusal to be defeated far more regularly than the Gunners - and, over the past five years, it is not just in games against the Blues that this criticism of can be made of Arsene Wenger’s players.

Arsene Wenger has shown nothing but belief in his players and his own methods but you have to consider whether some of his current players are deserving of his faith and are actually hungry enough to convert attractive football into trophies. It’s hard to know whether it is possible for the manager to instil that sort of desire and will to win into players that don’t appear to naturally have it. Some players in that squad are real winners but, as a group, do they truly possess that spirit collectively?

Looking at the great Arsenal sides of Wenger’s reign and legendary teams of the club’s history, they all exuded a defiant air of refusing to even contemplate defeat let alone accept it. They hated losing. This current side still has a long way to go to prove they communally have that sort of mentality.

Comments

Posted by Liam on 10/05/2010

Do you not think that Chelsea left Arsenal have the ball,up to within 30 Yards from goal and then
won the ball and broke and could have had more
goals,with Anelka missing an open goal and Essien
should also have scored when one and one with the keeper.

Posted by Topgun on 10/05/2010

A lot of good points but you tend to forget the amount of injuries Arsenal have suffered, these also tend to be long term injuries, like Robin van Persie (ankle), Nicklas Bendtner (groin) and Theo Walcott (ankle) add With Cesc Fabregas (hamstring), Manuel Almunia (elbow). Take Terry, Drogba out of Chelsea and you get my drift. Interestingly when was the last time Arsenal fielded their strongest 11 against Chelsea and compare the fact that chelsea was only missing Lampard.

Posted by Nick on 10/06/2010

Is this what passes for sports analysis in England, or in soccer? That one side is mentally stronger than another? That's it? That's all you have to say about a pretty incredible match?

Two mistakes, huh? Were they the only two mistakes by Arsenal, or were there others that Chelsea did not capitalize on? Did Chelsea make any mistakes? What about the ledger on that side of the pitch?

Then there is the matter of what Drogba and Alex did. I guess, from your perspective, they were quite lucky, because otherwise Chelsea could not have scored. No chance that the goals came down to talent, or perfect execution, or some such excellence on the part of these two players.

Then, there is the play of the other 20 men, over 90 minutes -- why did Arsenal not score -- was it mere steel, or might talent, ttactics, etc have had something to do with it? And Arsenal, did they do anything right when they weren't making mistakes? Did any of them shine?

You should be embarassed at this.

Posted by Nick on 10/06/2010

I couldn't agree more. I never question the resolve of Nasri, Fab, RVP, or Vermaelan, but there are definitely some players that need a trial by fire to get some intensity and ruthlessness (and not DeJong ruthlessness either). I still think that we will challenge at the end of the season if Fab gets fit, but guys like Diaby (and I never thought I'd say it... but even Clichy) need to get motivated fast.

Posted by David Fitch on 10/06/2010

You have summed up what Arsenal do lack that is a winning mentality every time they meet the top teams they struggle to score but more they cannot defend this was demonstrated in last year champion league.The Arsenal teams who had success in the past have always had strong defense as Chelsea demonstrated if you wait long enough Arsenal will present chances they seemed content to give Arsenal the mid-field wait for a miss placed pass and counter attack.what Chelsea did best was the way they were direct to attack the goal not allowing Arsenal defense to settle where as Arsenal seem to take so long to build an attack which gave them time to get men back in numbers.Arsenal never seem to do well with set pieces what they need is another Henry.

Posted by M.Wylie on 10/06/2010

Mr. Young, you are bang on again. There will be heaps of posts about the merits of individual players. But I like your "collective" focus. I am reminded that the "Invincibles" squad was more than the sum of its parts in every aspect on every part of the pitch. This Arsenal squad is getting ever closer to the "Invincibles" on technical merit - I can't remember the last time we ran Chelsea so close over 90 minutes - but the players do not exude that same self-belief (arrogance?) yet. I think this squad is very close to being a champion - a few personnel changes are still needed. But, numbingly, the take-away from the match is that Arsenal are not there yet. Chelsea are the "gold standard" right now, and we lost. It is not too far-fetched to say that the Birmingham and Man City games will decide whether we even have a chance at the Premiership title. Indeed, if Man City gel they will turn the League inside out. But I have a good feeling about a cup run for Arsenal this year. Go Arsenal!

Posted by Maran on 10/06/2010

I agree to half your comment. The lack of winning mentality was certainly absent. But this is not a recent phenomenon. The team for the last 4-5 years suffer from the same issue. Yet sadly,but dissapointingly nothing was ever done to change that. Arsenal played alright? I cannot believe that. What aspect were you actually referring to? It just goes to show the lack of depth in your analysis. Ok they scored in other matches,especially when teams were reduced to 10 men. I always maintained that based on their lack of sharpness and wastefulness in front of goal, they will have trouble with more organised defences. That was proven right. Arsenal suffer from lack of cutting edge and a certain lack of potency in their attacks. Simply try recall the year 2004/2005. Everytime they attacked we knew it was coming. Other teams feared us. Take a look at those matches. You will know what I mean. Don't drop your standards please, David, and Arsene. It is not too much to ask for. You know it.

Posted by Anonymous on 10/06/2010

I think Arshavin's recent performances highlight your point about attitude. He looks almost disinterested a lot of the time, not showing intent or pushing to do something which will change the game. The most disappointing thing is that we know he can do that.

Posted by Ed on 10/06/2010

Good write up..but I v seen it before.when r we goin to stp recycling d same nonsense n face reality?!whether u wnt to accept it or not,Arsene has no winnin mentality n its rubbing off on his players.Its about time we collectively start criticising AW and not fine tune his lapses..I hate mourinho but gv him ths same team n I bet u,he will win something! You know the truth! Thz is like lucid dream,I hav woken up,u guys shld..the epl keeps changn evry seasn,we hav a manager who refuses to improvise n bloggers who feel hez the god of soccer lol!AW's tactical prowess has bn questiond severally,frm pundits to players to managers n fans!without criticisms,AW will continue in the same course of action..I love wenger.I really do but I love Arsenal more!it wil get better,we wil win d league thz seasn,next seasn lol!its abt y'll faced d truth,if somethin isn't done n fast too,thz is goin to b another trophyless seasn..lastly,stp blamin d playas,blame AW..

Posted by Sandman on 10/06/2010

Possession : Chelsea - 53% Arsenal - 47%. This was the statistics of sunday match. So please review the statistics once again before saying that Arsenal dominated the game.

Posted by Ben Simba on 10/06/2010

No. Your comments are not correct - this team will deliver this year. I have confidence in the Wenger as he is a real manager. The game against WBA was poor but against Chelsea the team gave an excellent account of themselves. It was just bad luck and they will recover. By the way next week the real Arsenal will roar again never to be silenced! Give the boys a break. This is their year.

Posted by Deven Vythelingum on 10/06/2010

The Premiership is indeed becoming one of the most competitive leagues in Europe and a hard fought one where having a very good defense is a prerequisite to put up a good challenge. We can recall that from the days when the likes of Tony Adams, Martin Keown, Lee Dixon and Martin Lawrence and world class keepers like David Seaman and Jehns Lehman had gone, Arsenal had had always contented itself with the third and fourth place. The Winning mentality may not have gone completely. Arsenal is still a very good team and can still put up a good challenge. Recruitment should be made to build a stronger team physically and mentally. Good technical players of Arsenal are always being hurt by defenders of other teams. The play should be more to win than display anymore.It should aim to win and stop losing or conceding goals. The present play should be integrated with strong defending which had always been Arsenal's force. Remember in days of good defending Arsenal always won TITLES.

Posted by ifeanyi udemezue on 10/06/2010

Truly Dave, the statistics against Chelsea is downright embarrassing. The same thing can be said about Man. United. Now, Man. City has become one of our bogey teams. Is it that the current players fear Chelsea and other supposedly big teams? Perhaps, they need a sports psychologist. The other thing to take away from that game is that Fabianski appears to be picking up.It may just be necessary to give him an extended run of games until January when the Schwarzer matter may be re-opened. Finally, Wenger should concentrate their training on defending as scoring is apparently not the problem of the team.

Posted by Sandman on 10/06/2010

Chelsea had 53% possession compared to Arsenals 47%. Just placing out the facts here..

Posted by Steve oloo on 10/06/2010

Very well said sir,personally, the most dissappointing aspect of the game was not losing, being outmuscled or even the profligacy in front of goal but............. And I say this with a lot of grief and denial , Drogba!!? Again??.
I simply refuse to get over it. Can someone explain to me why it had to be him again?
It's on days like these when I really wish we had a dirty and effective defender like Ufjalusi

Posted by JoeUSA on 10/06/2010

First of all, that Didier Drogba flick off the inside of the near post with a defender tight to him, is very difficult to prevent.

But more importantly, while I have been a football fan long enough to know that the mental component is huge, I think it is skirting the issue to talk about it having the will to win as if it was a totally separate entity from the football on the pitch. Playing attractive football when under pressure, defending without losing concentration, and putting away your chances in front of goal are how a team shows their will to win.

The Gunners have shown that they possess some of these qualities, but not as consistently as Chelsea in recent years, but it's not as if there is this intangible thing that they are missing. They just need defenders who don't get rattled, midfielders willing to stand up to physical challenges, and forwards with ice water in their veins. The sad thing is that they possess players with these qualities but they are always injured.

Posted by Bruce on 10/06/2010

Good Article. My sentiments exactly.
They actually out played Chelsea for most of the game, however, out playing is one thing, being effective in front of goal and back defending is another. Chelsea has shown that they are tactically hard to break down at the back, just like the Mourinho era.
One more thing I think you have failed to point out, it's that recently, hasnt one realised that goals conceded were from the byline? Drogba's goal was a result of a cross from the byline, so did West Brom's first goal. Meaning to say, our full-backs are pretty much the weak link at the back, the weakest being the man, or rather, men between the posts. Sagna and Clichy are brilliant attacking forward but defending wise, they would have to improve tremendously, especially their positioning sense.
That's all for my two cents' worth. Hope to see a revitalised Arsenal soon, if not, I would not blame Cesc for abandoning this disappointing vessel.

Posted by titansgunner12thman on 10/06/2010

Lack of defense is the whole issue. The arsenal will create chances, and even though they miss their fair share of chances, keeping goals out has been the bane of their existence for the last 4-5 years. But everyone knows this. Even the manager. But why does the manager refuse to address defense...ah F' it. I am sick of singing that same song.
Wenger is officially a "Nutter". Harry has him pegged. Gunners for 4th. They damn sure aren't going to win the title (any title) with such porous D.

Posted by Dave Pack on 10/06/2010

Our last 18 matches against Chelsea: Two wins, 11 losses, and 5 draws in all competitions, which is abysmal. The first 23 matches played against them after Arsene's arrival: 15 wins, 2 losses, and six draws. Chelsea has become our bogey team and it is appalling and unacceptable. At the conclusion of Sunday's match, I was left wondering whether Van Persie, Walcott, Vermaelen, and Fabregas would have made a difference. Arsenal's defensive wall that allowed Alex's 2nd goal appeared to have been set up by amateurs. How COULD they!? We need a couple of big, hardy and hungry English boys in the middle to turn this alarming trend around. I wish we had modern players like our old Tony Adams, Wilf Copping, and Peter Storey.

Posted by c juillet on 10/06/2010

good reads-but really should be stressed by everyone if Chelsea were missing their 4 key players and we had our playing it would have been a different story-ijuries are playing major part in our results against 'stronger' teams-so our results so far apart from one)have been pretty amazing. Godd points made by Fabregas this morning on soccernet

Posted by Omogbotemi Adesola on 10/07/2010

With all said and done...
I agree with most of the issues raised by the writer.
Arsenal, no doubt, showcase the best football in UK. However, the winning mentality department is where the playeres are found wanting.
We keep saying this year in, season out, but for how long are we going to keep at this?.
Someone made comments about losing most of the crop of best players in the team to injury. Well, tell me, why sign players who aren't good enough to compete and actually win trophies rather than play good football? For how long will Arsenal continue to play fantastic football without recording any trophy? And please don't make me start counting when a trophy last went to Highbury not to talk og Emirates.
I think even without the inclusion of Drogba, Terry and Lampard, Chealsea would still have fared well against Arsenal.
And don't leave Malouda out. Don't understand the fact that Arsenal are also weak at set-pieces. And who do we have to take them in the team?
Alex's is a fact.

Posted by Joe on 10/07/2010

Some observation about injuries.
Very easily, we found that there are always "some" injuried players throughout the whole season.
1. Is it about the quality of physio?
2. It is about the playing style of Arsenal? They are always getting too close to opponents, facing tackles more frequently.

Posted by CK on 10/07/2010

AT THE CURRENT LIMIT

Arsenal played well & nobody accountable for one lucky goal and one free kick that not keeper's fault. It is at current powerforc limit till the return of main structure of the team ( as prev described)

Short term remedy:
win the League Cup (with only one or two powerhouse remaining in the last 16) to boost the confidence of the playsers

Long term remedy:
If no world class players available in Jan transfer window, focus on FA Cup and Champion League rather than Premier League, which is long battle in which req'd more potential players on the card.

Posted by Anonymous on 10/07/2010

Agree with Nick. This is not professional sports analysis or even the voice of an impassioned supporter. Instead it is the latter who thinks he can do the former.

Did you even watch the game? If you think Arsenal played alright then you must be a very mediocre man who is easily satisfied. They at no time looked like winners and several people who have commented have supplied actual and tactical reasons for what went wrong instead of your silly excuse.

Posted by Shad on 10/07/2010

@ Sandman.. actually if you were watching match of the day, the stats at the end of the game read Chelsea 48% Arsenal 52%. At some point i the game the stats in possession were Chelsea 38% Arsenal 62% !!
Arsenal had more shots on goal, more chances, more possession. Chelsea were just meaner in defense and more clinical upfront.

Posted by Don Longo on 10/07/2010

The premier league is not won in October and is not lost in October. So everyone needs to relax and when the "stars" return we can collect points in bucketfulls. Stars = Fab, VP, Vermaelen and Walcott.
On Arsenal tactics. Arsenal is very easy to play again they like to go forward with midfielders and wing backs supporting the strikers. This is very easy to defend against, just put numbers in the back and counter attack. Arsenal was exposed over and over in this way. Thankfully Fabianski was pretty stout otherwise the score could of been worse. Arsene needs to adjust his tactics when he plays these stronger team, he should really play more defensively and attack on the counter. Arsenal is the best counter attacking team in the premier league they need to be taking advantage of this more often. BTW please no more Almunia, time to start playing the youngsters.

Posted by Brent on 10/07/2010

As an objective observer of weekend football matches, I don't understand why people on this blog insist of saying that Arsenal "played" better. Perhaps this an American way of thinking, but the scoreline always dictates who has played the better game. Arsenal may have had a more flowing approach than their London adversaries, but Chelsea played very well. Aside from Nasri, I can't recall another Arsenal midfielder having any sort of impact on the game at all. Also, when did fielding two holding midfielders like Diaby and Song stop being negative tactics? I do agree with the mental aspect of Arsenal's loss. They're too fragile to compete with 'superior' teams and lose to themselves before the first touch. For the injuries, the same could be said for Chelsea with missing Lampard. A lack of incisive passing in Chelsea's midfield was a blessing for Arsenal. In closing, Squallici and Koscielny need to go. They looked weak and disorganized for the past three matchs.

Posted by GTK on 10/07/2010

Arsenal made more mistake in their defence then chelsea. They mispasses many times at mid field which is not acceptable. When Chelsea lost the ball, their players came back to defend very swiftly. Even if particular chelsea defender left a loop hole, their other player will cover the loop hole very fast. Therefore most of the chances arsenal created is not clear cut chances. Arsenal players must improve in their mentality to keep more clean sheet for most of the games. They can only be champion if one day they can defence as a team. Arsenal defeat mainly due to Chelsea defended better and commit less mistake. However when Fabregas, Van Persie, Walcott and bendtner return, they will have more attacking option and increase their chance in winning the game.

Posted by Ethan on 10/07/2010

Can't agree more with you, David. It is highly evident from the recent games in Sunderland and even at home with WBA (I thought we just suck for away games).There is just no one there to step up and take the game over.We need players like Bergkamp and Henry to finish the game. Everyone is just waiting for things to happen.
I also question the gaffer's team selection.Why field such a strong team again Spurs and put players (such as Diaby and Eboue) who are not yet ready in WBA?Rosicky, I feel, has lost his form from such rotation. He could be the go-to guy if he plays more regularly. The only player who I am impressed so far got to be Jack and hopefully Fabianski can be the next.
Arshavin is basically inconsistent and tires out too quickly. Too bad there is no perfect replacement.Vela plays almost the same style.
Luckily, we are still in the early stages of the season.We can turn things round with better, faster central defense and for god's sake, stop the crosses from the sides.

Posted by Ron T on 10/07/2010

No one on this team has won anything so that knowhow and attitude isn't there. We'll outplay Manure and still lose because as poorly as they are playing, they know how to grind out a result.

We have to spend some money for quality experience. The youth movement is fine but honestly, apart from Theo, Jack, Gibbs, Aaron and JET, everyone else has reached their potential. I don't see any upswing for them. Cesc is world class but he's leaving. Why stay? For what? RVP is worthless at this point. Rosicky is well past his days. Arshavin's going through the motions. Our keepers are trash. Diaby, Song, Clichy, Denilson are what they are. Serviceable but not winning players. Chamahk and Vermalean are new so I'll hold off judgement. But other than Cesc, we have no difference makers on the pitch. No champions to take a game in their hands like a Drogba , Messi or Rooney. We don't have champion players or championship attitude or mentality.

Posted by Kim on 10/07/2010

I do not blame the players only,but I also question the tactics of Wenger. Passing & possession of the ball is necessary in soccer, but they need to try shooting from a distance other than waiting to get into the 18yd box. That kind of play works to weaker teams, but not to big teams with stronger defense. I also agree with David that we lack the winning mentality. Compare this Arsenal with the arsenal in T.Henry, Viera, Lehman,Seaman, Keone Ljumburg's regime. The team faced injuries, but still performed well. Wenger is well aware that we face that predicament almost every season,but he never buys players to reinforce the team. Wenger sh'd have learned a lesson from the ramifications ages ago, but he is still adamant. I love Arsenal & we need a different manager.

Posted by Harold I Passes on 10/07/2010

I live in Wash .DC. USA and viewed the game on Comcast. I supported Arsenal back in the 30's when defence was the game with breakaway goals commonly winning games.
Chelsea played the old Arsenal style and stout defence won it for them.
Wake up Arsenal, !!! Learn to shoot between the posts ang the goals will come.

Posted by keyurpawar on 10/08/2010

hard luck dis time gunnerssss next time tear chelsi offfff

Posted by krH on 10/08/2010

I believe, at some point, this has to fall on Wenger. No one questions his ability to field squads that play attractive football. But often times, I find myself scratching my head with his squad selection. Why start Song AND Diaby? Why not allow Wilshere to play a more offensive role? I am aware that at Stamford Bridge he is not going to field 3 strikers, but of course we're not going to net one with Chamakh up-top as the lone striker. He has no help. Arshavin has been poor at best and Nasri can only be in so many places.
Also, when Fabregas is subbed out, who is always his replacement? Rosicky. So why was Rosicky not starting? We need that creative player in our midfield to play inventive balls. To create. Why not sit either Song or Diaby and start Rosicky? Allow Wilshere to move forward and play a more offensive role too.
Finally, where is the Andrei Arshavin that arrived in North London two years ago? He seems slow, unimaginative, and predictable? He needs to step up

Posted by shane on 10/08/2010

eh arsenal still had a good amount of players out compared to chelsea who only had out lampard, arsenal plays way better football and i personally just love to watch them play although it is frustrating at times, chelsea will enjoy their time at the top but i don't see it going on for longer than 3 years they will not be able to replace the great players of the current chelsea squad so in the long run arsenal will come out on top

Posted by fabien on 10/08/2010

The winning mentality is not there. Some of the players, they don't give what they should give. Chelsea could say that they missed opportunities. But Arsenal has to review their way of approaching big games. they are not giving enought yet. the way they play makes them more injured than any other team.and with that way of playing, you must have in reserve big players who can fill in when some are out for months. but that is not yet the case, and Arsenal might have to wait for years again to lift truphies, if they continue the same way. or they just decide to make their money not on wining trophies but on something else. Arsene Wenger should just tell us, so that we know what to expect and not deceiving ourselves.

Posted by Peter on 10/08/2010

I think Arsenal players are lazy and weak!they are always injured,not strong enough2 withstand a strong tackle and are always complaining!They should shut up and step up!

Posted by magezi festo on 10/08/2010

arsenal finds it hard to score when the so called nasir's want to score past the goal line. Invisible arsenal could not risk that. wenger has to train that team how to score out of eigteen. Diaby is completely awaste in our midfield.we can use denlson 4 his role.

Posted by arab on 10/08/2010

If Chealsea Play without cech as no 1 keeper, terry as no 1 center defender,essien as no 1 midfielder and drogba as no 1 stricker as Arsenal played without amunia,vamerlean,fabregas,van persie and thoe they will go out of field in shame.

No team in england can face injury problems like Arsenal and still make top four even your Chealsea

Posted by Jim CaJacob on 10/08/2010

Excepting Fabregas, which Aresenal first choice players would start for Chelsea?

Why is this difficult to perceive? Arsenal does not have enough firepower in front of goal. Typical Arsenal goals are kicked in from 15 yards after beautiful build-ups. Chelsea's goal was back-heeled in from 1 foot, after a physical duel to get to the spot. Bendnter has the body but not the skill. No other Arsenal striker has the body or the inclination or the nose for the goal. Why no interest in Luis Fabiano? Ruud?

Posted by Sam on 10/08/2010

I agree with most of these comments, and I do think there is a mentality issue as much as there is an issue with arsenal players inability to keep clean sheets regularly, arsenal players consistently picking up injury's, and a lack of a commanding goalie.

The question I want to ask in regards to mentality is the penalty shot. Did anyone else think that Song ducked away from the penalty shot by Alex at the last minute. Watch the goal in slow motion. It looks like had he held his ground second goal wouldn't have made it in quit possibly.

Posted by pofa on 10/09/2010

Thanks dave,i think(1)song played out of position, always overlaping without recovering in time thereby living the midfield porous (2)song's lacklustre attitude caused the second goal, Why docking the Alex's shot for CHRIST sake?(3)He is to slow at recovering and wait a minute, What's he doing infront of Wlshre, diaby, and chamack no one says he should not overlap but then he should be conscious of defending as well(4)Arsene need to emphasise man marking than space marking,most often chelsea were given more spaces to operate.
(5)sag and Cltch, should improve on their defensive skills,as well with the two wingers assisting them.(6)the strikers and forwards should learn to shoot at goal and less dribling and passing of the ball. We need a strong defensive midfielder and wright full back. the first goal was due to loss of concentration. the season is fresh and too early to judge the champion,the loss to chelsea is not a big deal, the loss to westbrom was.gudluck.

Posted by justin on 10/10/2010

lets settle down with this article, I want to ask everyone a serious question had Arsenal been fully fit do people still think they would of lost ? I don't think they would have I think they would of beat them 4-1 . Chelsea looked old and that goal by Drogba was ridiculous. Let Arsenal be fully fit and then talk to me about there winning mentality .

Posted by Atiku Manex Jamali on 10/10/2010

I agree with what is discussed about arsenal players as a fun from Uganda and i believe our manager should think of buying a stronger midfielder and a striker because every season Van Persi have not completed a season without injury and for this it makes arsenal to become weak from the front
We he is a good player for arsenal but their needs more to make them stronger with the coming of Chamaki in Emirates

Posted by Jervo on 10/11/2010

We should all quit tqlking about injuries as excuse for Arsenal's failures. Why are Arsenal's players always injured. They always have a lot of injury problems and the bottom line is, they are not always fit enough to play. Wenger should either get stronger players or increase the squad so while others are getting treatment, others are playing. Mr WENGER is just too headstrong. He needs a seroius change to his policy

Posted by ABDU KARIM-Uganda on 10/11/2010

Yes, David. To some extent, there is still a luck of winning mentality. But I would also agree that some injuries, specifically to Vermaleen, have affected Arsenal's defence. If you remember very well, before Vermaleen was injured, Arsenal was really solid at the back. You know, Vermaleen has had a full season's experience with the Premier League which Squillaci & Koscielny lack. They still need time to learn and adapt. Each of the two new defenders really needs to play along side Verma for some time to pick the experience needed to handle the Premier pressure and physical game.

Let's wait and see, but I believe when Vermaleen comes back, Arsenal will be better.

ABDU KARIM- Uganda

Posted by ndubuisi anekwe on 10/11/2010

Arsenal has been known to play attractive game but we should not fail to remember that Drogba boasted knowning how to handle them which he did over the last match.

Arsene Wenger should wake up now and prepare for the January transfer window because this set is not really matured enough to believe that they will win anything.The killer instincts of the Arsenal team is no more there.The finishing whereby Arsenal is known for is no more there.Who will score the goals when Chamakh only attacks the defence.

We need to go to market during the transfer window if we will have a dream of trophy this season or we open our hands and welcome exodus of our players at the end of the season because every player needs to a trophy.

Posted by shola on 10/11/2010

ARSENAL DID NOT HAVE THE ABILITY OF BEATING CHELSEA NO MATER HOW MUCH THEY TRY.

Posted by Maran on 10/12/2010

I should say I was bored with the break and I had little choice but to go through every single post, once again. I think Ron T had made an excellent post. Succinct but it had comprehensively covered the issue with the Arsenal team. I completely agree that there is an obvious lack of winner(s) in this team. I think the lack of a certain match winner(s) can be mitigated by a team full of fighters and professionals with the right alligience, and with a manager who can make them play like winners. Currently the current team is weak on all fronts. There are some players not worth the billing, players who cannot improve, mostly do not have the right attitude and the manager who is clueless. A certain recipe for failure. "Almost there, but never there" for 5 years should be considered a failure to most of us except Arsene. Something must change. It would not take Einstein to figure this out. But the question is not what, but when?

Posted by dittus Uganda on 10/12/2010

arsenal!? wel, may be we can wait till next year. that type of game can win games coz we can neither score nor defend. and too lazy to run, tanckle, jump. goalkeepers just 3rd division material. manone is better.

Posted by igho on 10/14/2010

Talking about injury, Are you guys trying to say that Kalou, Yossi and bosingwa are not injured for Chelsea?

Silly Excuses

Posted by kunlewoye on 10/14/2010

OMG! What are you all saying? Chelsea made defensive mistakes as well, the most they've made against us in years, we just never capitalized. simple.
In a big game, which that was, when one of the teams concede the matches hinges on the team trying to get an equaliser or conceding a killer second which was what exactly happened.

Posted by Scott Haus on 10/14/2010

Spot on. Can you imagine what the back four of 1997 thinks about the current squad's mental lapses. I love the style and flair of the current squad, but also miss the cracking tackles of Adams, Nutty, Keown, Bould and Dixon. Think of strength of the central midfield with Petit and Viera coupled with the flair of Overmars and Bergkamp. Come to think of to heck with the flair of the current squad, as pleasing as it can be, give me 1997.

Posted by follizzle on 10/14/2010

we played well but i still say that the style of football we play is becoming too predictable.we need to be disciplined.we hold on to the ball and determined to "outpass" our opponents we throw so many players forward.We need to build our attack quickly.If song is a defensive mid-fielder then he should remain there.let the others do their jobs.Wenger really needs to look at the team and be more pragmatic.Respect your opponents, be decisive, shoot when you have the chance and keep a disciplined formation.

Posted by favour on 10/14/2010

In all Arsenal got a good players on d pitch.I beleive dat Arsenal boys wil mak us proud oneday. Wilshel, walcot, verma keep the faith. Fab we luv u but, if u stil want 2 go 2 baca,dat shldn't slow ur moral. Faithful Gunners keep d fate on. I luv u all.

Posted by RVB on 10/14/2010

I cannot accept it when our players can afford to smile and crack a joke with the opposition, walking down the tunnel holding hands & singing after losing a match.

Losing has to be unacceptable, no matter against whatever opposition, no matter how talented, no matter how lucky/ unlucky.

Alot of these boys just don't matter one way or another as long as they 'played well'.

The team used to have a heart and soul through every player. Now they are just entertainers. It's depressing.

Posted by Zunda on 10/14/2010

come on guys can't you see that Wenger is flat footed? I've never been comfortable with his defensive tactics his team comits millions of mistakes in defence and this doesn't start with the current team just take a look. Managers have known this fact and the fact that Arsenal players ever since Vieira hate to be tighted by oppositions,hence they capitalise on this." you wanna beat Arsenal tight them and wait they will give you goals" really Wengs has got something to do to prove me wrong

Posted by dominico mexes on 10/14/2010

U guys are all chelsea beefers.in blues I stand.....

Posted by Danny on 10/14/2010

we arsenal fans are living in a dream world, football is real is not fiction, when are we going to accept that we dont have the qaulities that other top teams has, we only have qauntities average players that is why we are unpreditable, As far as these current squad and their coach is concern, i will never bet that this is match their going to win coz i want to save myself high blood pressure. aw is highfalutin he knows his policy can not going to win us anything why not change or take a leave.

Posted by Stherific on 10/15/2010

Arsenal is a fantastic team with all the qualities of a formidable team. All we lack is an experienced person in our defense, not because we lack the skill to keep goals out, but for the moral boost it will give the youngsters we have. Wenger has to change his view slightly by buying a young player with a corresponding experienced player. I have full faith that our players are still young and a few years from now we will be the 'Invincibles' again. Take nothing from Chelsea but one must admit we were not at our strongest playerwise.

Posted by catejo on 10/15/2010

It's so worrying to understand that you can easily spot out defeat in the eyes of the Arsenal players before that game ended. When you do not take ur chances with teams like chelsea,u have urself to blame. Arsenal,to me still do not look like a team to win anything yet. Our defence look so weak,and easily broken-down. The simple truth is that we never looked like a team to win chelsea on that day! We so much allow teams a lot of space to play,and when Man.city won chelsea the previous week,AW should have learnt few clues from it,but he never did.

Posted by Kayode on 10/15/2010

Think the problem with the team is not tactics as some may believe nor the coach but the quality of players.

Arsenal play a highly sophisticated form of football that require players with the equivalent skill and talent to execute. which the current crop lacks.

The difference between Arsenal and say a team like Barcelona is the Players and nothing else. which is rather a lot.

Posted by Venance Adam on 10/15/2010

Arsena lack winning mentality,killer instict and experienced goalkeeper like Mark or Given.

Posted by koez on 10/15/2010

when Henry transfer to Barcelona in 2007 i think Wenger made a very big MISTAKE to let that man go because we lack a FINISHING ABILITY. RVP cannot finish like the way HENRY does and so do chamakh. So far that i know arsenal did not win any trophies after he left the club and not even reach FINAL in any competition (even in carling cup season 06-07 doesn't need his help). Arsenal need someone to replace him. What use if you dominate the game but not scored. IT'S POINTLESS. One question- why arsene wenger put RVP as center forward? why not as second striker? Didn't you see season 08-09 when RVP mostly contributed to Arsenal victory throughout the season when put as second striker and adebayor as center forward. I want to fix what mr. steve oloo said that chelsea- 53% and arsenal- 47%. YOU didn't watch the watch tv or surf the soccernet?!! IT SAYS THAT CHELSEA- 47% AND ARSENAL- 53%. OF COURSE ARSENAL DOMINATED THE GAME!!!!! I HATE WRONG FACT.

Posted by gunmen on 10/15/2010

i put the blame on Wenger, Arsenal needs to shoot when in the box, they over do it in the box. Our strikers are lazy.

A new coach will do better with the gunners, we do everything except shooting.

the issue of a goalkeeper , is another big and unsolved problem. Last season we all knew we needed a keeper bt wat happens, we doesnt buy anyone.

It hurts to support these guys, though i love this team. you dont have any security, they will perform well.

Posted by rajendran on 10/16/2010

i think same as fabregas said there is winning instinct in the team.....nobody is giving their best in the field

Posted by Makur Jacob on 10/17/2010

Well,gunners are always good in most of their games but they need to learn one thing whenever they are in the box "That's making of shoots" and they will remain the best team among the better teams.

Posted by Lim Deming on 10/18/2010

I always believe and feel that when Captain Cesc plays, we will perform better and win more games...We need him around fit and play as many games as possible....He can link up our play...puts the goal on a silver plate for the strikers...and even pop one or two now and then. If we can't defend that well....we can certainly can create and score even more goals to top it all up....i can hardly recall that many games that we lost when he played fully fit...even the BIG games...Fabregas is Arsenal's key to open and unlock even the tightest and meanest of defences. We need him back real quick! =)

Posted by adexsholy on 12/17/2010

Posted by zack mwangi on 12/20/2010

Am an arsenal diehard fan and I would like to put my comment to coach Wenger, he should consider putting subs btwn 60th and 70th min not 85th when we are pressed down and cannot rise. Arshavin's game is down and should only play the first 45 min and be substituted by Walcot or Rosisky if theyare not in the play.

Posted by emmanuel marako on 12/21/2010

i always feel beater when arsenal are up ageinst the top dogs. dey always finds it difficult to beat dem. but dis time barca will pay back when we meet at the emirate come febuary next year. fabregas is a fantastic player but he know feels a bigger boy at emirates he is currentlly out of form, he should not let his admiration for barca affect his performance at the emirates. CHEERS TO ALL MY GUNNERS FAITHFULS WE ARE BEATING CHELSEA COME 27th.

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