Manchester United's Patrice Evra reveals he was close to joining Inter
The Frenchman says the Nerazzurri were keen to sign him last summer, but it was the English club who didn't want to let him go.
Manchester United defender Patrice Evra has revealed Inter were interested in signing him during the past summer.
The Frenchman says it was the English club who refused the transfer to occur.
"I signed a four-year contract with the club, and whoever wants to sign me has to go to [Sir Alex] Ferguson's office and deal with him directly," the 29-year-old said to Sky after the side's 3-1 aggregate win over Chelsea.
"Inter was very interested in me a year ago, as well as Real Madrid. With Inter, there was serious contacts, but United did not want to sell me."
Evra also believes if the Nerazzurri can score two early goals in their Champions League encounter against Schalke, they have a chance of progressing to the semi-finals of the competition.
"Inter have nothing to lose, as one can never say never in football," he added. "If they can score two quick goals, Schalke could be scared.
"The Germans did very well in Milan, and we were all surprised they scored five goals."
Monday, April 18, 2011
Birmingham City's Alexander Hleb: I love Arsenal & if I have a chance to go back I will
Belarus midfielder, on loan from Barcelona, admits he does not want to stay at St Andrew's and wants to join a club who "play football" at the end of the season
Alexander Hleb has revealed that he loves former club Arsenal and would like to return at the end of the season.
The playmaker is currently on loan at Birmingham City from Barcelona but his lack of form and fitness has limited him to just 11 league starts at St Andrew's.
And the Belarus international has admitted the Blues style of play has forced him to look for a summer move.
“No. I don’t stay here and I don’t want to stay,” said Hleb, according to The Daily Mirror.
“I enjoyed my time but this is not my way of football. Here you just need to fight, run and not much passing.
“This is for me something new. I will give my best for this club, but I prefer to play football."
The midfielder previously spent three seasons in England’s top flight with Arsenal before departing for Spain in 2008, and he is now eyeing a move back to north London.
The 29-year-old continued, “I would like to stay in the Premier League – and I know which club. We will speak and hopefully everything will be good.
“I love Arsenal and they are always in my heart. If I have a chance to go back then I will.
“In life everything is possible.”
Alexander Hleb has revealed that he loves former club Arsenal and would like to return at the end of the season.
The playmaker is currently on loan at Birmingham City from Barcelona but his lack of form and fitness has limited him to just 11 league starts at St Andrew's.
And the Belarus international has admitted the Blues style of play has forced him to look for a summer move.
“No. I don’t stay here and I don’t want to stay,” said Hleb, according to The Daily Mirror.
“I enjoyed my time but this is not my way of football. Here you just need to fight, run and not much passing.
“This is for me something new. I will give my best for this club, but I prefer to play football."
The midfielder previously spent three seasons in England’s top flight with Arsenal before departing for Spain in 2008, and he is now eyeing a move back to north London.
The 29-year-old continued, “I would like to stay in the Premier League – and I know which club. We will speak and hopefully everything will be good.
“I love Arsenal and they are always in my heart. If I have a chance to go back then I will.
“In life everything is possible.”
Tottenham's Gareth Bale named PFA Player of the Year
Tottenham Hotspur winger Gareth Bale has been named PFA Player of the Year, beating Arsenal's Samir Nasri into second and Manchester City's Carlos Tevez into third.
The former Southampton youngster shot to fame during the 2010/11 campaign as he helped Spurs to the Champions League Quarter Finals, putting Inter Milan to the sword in the group stages when making two of Spurs three goals in the home tie and netting a hat-trick during a 4-3 defeat in the San Siro.
Despite struggling to play since late January due to injury, the Welshman has netted seven times in the Premier League, form which accompanied by his impressive European displays, allowed him to see off competition from Carlos Tevez, Samir Nasri, Rafael Van Der Vaart, Scott Parker, Charlie Adam and Nemanja Vidic for the award.
Bale was also nominated for the Young Player of the Year Award, picked up by Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere, but admitted to being ecstatic to join a star studded list of players to previously pick up the honor.
''I am more than delighted really,'' said Bale. ''It is a massive award and it is a great honor to receive, especially from other fellow professionals.
''It is a honor really when you look at the names that have won it before and it just makes you go 'wow' really.
''There haven't been too many Welshman to have won the trophy but it is great and it is great for me personally.
''And it is not just for me, it is for all my team-mates that have helped me through the season and it is kind of for everyone really.''
The 21-year-old follows in the footsteps of compatriots Ryan Giggs, Mark Hughes and Ian Rush in picking up the honor but Goal.com readers may be left frustrated having voted in their droves during a recent poll that Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic deserved the award, closely followed by Samir Nasri. Bale picked up only 7.63% of the vote.
Early on in his Tottenham career, Bale attracted headlines as his side endured a torrid run of form whenever he was selected but after a strong finish to the 2009/10 campaign, his fortunes have sky rocketed this term. A change in fortune he attributes to a number of factors.
''I think it is due to a bit of everything really,'' he added.
''At the beginning I wasn't really playing much and I always believed in myself that if I did get a run in the team - which I eventually did - that I would be able to prove what I can do.
''That did happen and I kind of never really looked back from there.
''Playing in a good team with good players definitely helped me a lot and all the boys have been fantastic, the manager has been fantastic, giving me my chance, and it is something I want to improve on.''
Spurs fans will hope Bale’s return from injury and prestigious honor will springboard the dynamic winger into top form as Harry Redknapp’s men chase down Manchester City for a Champions League berth during the closing stages of the campaign.
The former Southampton youngster shot to fame during the 2010/11 campaign as he helped Spurs to the Champions League Quarter Finals, putting Inter Milan to the sword in the group stages when making two of Spurs three goals in the home tie and netting a hat-trick during a 4-3 defeat in the San Siro.
Despite struggling to play since late January due to injury, the Welshman has netted seven times in the Premier League, form which accompanied by his impressive European displays, allowed him to see off competition from Carlos Tevez, Samir Nasri, Rafael Van Der Vaart, Scott Parker, Charlie Adam and Nemanja Vidic for the award.
Bale was also nominated for the Young Player of the Year Award, picked up by Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere, but admitted to being ecstatic to join a star studded list of players to previously pick up the honor.
''I am more than delighted really,'' said Bale. ''It is a massive award and it is a great honor to receive, especially from other fellow professionals.
''It is a honor really when you look at the names that have won it before and it just makes you go 'wow' really.
''There haven't been too many Welshman to have won the trophy but it is great and it is great for me personally.
''And it is not just for me, it is for all my team-mates that have helped me through the season and it is kind of for everyone really.''
The 21-year-old follows in the footsteps of compatriots Ryan Giggs, Mark Hughes and Ian Rush in picking up the honor but Goal.com readers may be left frustrated having voted in their droves during a recent poll that Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic deserved the award, closely followed by Samir Nasri. Bale picked up only 7.63% of the vote.
Early on in his Tottenham career, Bale attracted headlines as his side endured a torrid run of form whenever he was selected but after a strong finish to the 2009/10 campaign, his fortunes have sky rocketed this term. A change in fortune he attributes to a number of factors.
''I think it is due to a bit of everything really,'' he added.
''At the beginning I wasn't really playing much and I always believed in myself that if I did get a run in the team - which I eventually did - that I would be able to prove what I can do.
''That did happen and I kind of never really looked back from there.
''Playing in a good team with good players definitely helped me a lot and all the boys have been fantastic, the manager has been fantastic, giving me my chance, and it is something I want to improve on.''
Spurs fans will hope Bale’s return from injury and prestigious honor will springboard the dynamic winger into top form as Harry Redknapp’s men chase down Manchester City for a Champions League berth during the closing stages of the campaign.
Manchester United and Arsenal dominate PFA Premier League Team of the Year Four Red Devils included in PFA Team of the Year
Manchester United and Arsenal dominate PFA Premier League Team of the Year
Four Red Devils included in PFA Team of the Year as Carlos Tevez, Gareth Bale & Samir Nasri among others also make the cut. Charlie Adam and Leighton Baines omitted.
Players from Premier League challengers Manchester United and Arsenal dominate the 2010-11 PFA Premier League Team of the Year, cementing seven of the 11 places.
PFA Young Player of the Year Jack Wilshere grabs himself a midfield berth and is joined in the impressive side by Arsenal team-mates Bacary Sagna and Samir Nasri.
MORE...
* Bale takes Player of the Year gong
* Wilshere wins PFA Young Player award
Edwin van der Sar takes his place between the sticks for his performances during what is expected to be his last Premier League season and the Manchester United contingent is completed by Nemanja Vidic, Nani and Premier League top goalscorer Dimitar Berbatov.
FA Cup finalists Manchester City are also able to boast two names in the select XI as Belgian defender Vincent Kompany receives recognition, as does talismanic forward Carlos Tevez.
Premier League champions Chelsea have only one representative in Ashley Cole and Tottenham are represented by PFA Player of the Year Gareth Bale.
Notable omissions from the XI include Everton defender Leighton Baines, who boasts the most assist for any defender in the league this year, and inspirational duo Scott Parker and Charlie Adam.
Premier League Team of the Year: Van der Sar (Man Utd); Sagna (Arsenal), Vidic (Man Utd), Kompany (Man City), Cole (Chelsea); Nani (Man Utd), Nasri (Arsenal), Wilshere (Arsenal), Bale (Tottenham); Tevez (Man City), Berbatov (Man Utd).
Four Red Devils included in PFA Team of the Year as Carlos Tevez, Gareth Bale & Samir Nasri among others also make the cut. Charlie Adam and Leighton Baines omitted.
Players from Premier League challengers Manchester United and Arsenal dominate the 2010-11 PFA Premier League Team of the Year, cementing seven of the 11 places.
PFA Young Player of the Year Jack Wilshere grabs himself a midfield berth and is joined in the impressive side by Arsenal team-mates Bacary Sagna and Samir Nasri.
MORE...
* Bale takes Player of the Year gong
* Wilshere wins PFA Young Player award
Edwin van der Sar takes his place between the sticks for his performances during what is expected to be his last Premier League season and the Manchester United contingent is completed by Nemanja Vidic, Nani and Premier League top goalscorer Dimitar Berbatov.
FA Cup finalists Manchester City are also able to boast two names in the select XI as Belgian defender Vincent Kompany receives recognition, as does talismanic forward Carlos Tevez.
Premier League champions Chelsea have only one representative in Ashley Cole and Tottenham are represented by PFA Player of the Year Gareth Bale.
Notable omissions from the XI include Everton defender Leighton Baines, who boasts the most assist for any defender in the league this year, and inspirational duo Scott Parker and Charlie Adam.
Premier League Team of the Year: Van der Sar (Man Utd); Sagna (Arsenal), Vidic (Man Utd), Kompany (Man City), Cole (Chelsea); Nani (Man Utd), Nasri (Arsenal), Wilshere (Arsenal), Bale (Tottenham); Tevez (Man City), Berbatov (Man Utd).
rsenal's Jack Wilshere wins PFA Young Player of the Year award
Arsenal starlet Jack Wilshere has been named PFA Young Player of the Year.
The 19-year-old beat off competition from Arsenal team-mate Samir Nasri as well as Joe Hart, Gareth Bale, Seamus Coleman and Manchester United pair Javier Hernandez and Nani.
Since making an hour-long appearance away at Liverpool on the opening day, Wilshere has progressed to become a regular starter for Arsene Wenger and won major plaudits for his performance during Arsenal’s 2-1 Champions League first-leg victory over Barcelona in February.
Rising to prominence as the season progressed, Wilshere made inroads into Fabio Capello’s plans and made his full debut in England’s 2-1 friendly victory over Denmark before making a competitive bow for the Three Lions in the 2-0 Euro 2012 qualifying victory over Wales.
Wilshere joins an illustrious list of previous winners of the award such as Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard but the decision to grant the Arsenal play-maker the honor contradicts the views of Goal.com followers in a recent poll.
Readers voted Manchester United’s Nani as deserving of the award with 27.96% of the vote, just nudging out the successful Wilshere with 27.06%.
The award will prove some form of consolation for the Arsenal midfielder as his side was thwarted at the death by Liverpool in Sunday’s vital Premier League clash.
The 19-year-old beat off competition from Arsenal team-mate Samir Nasri as well as Joe Hart, Gareth Bale, Seamus Coleman and Manchester United pair Javier Hernandez and Nani.
Since making an hour-long appearance away at Liverpool on the opening day, Wilshere has progressed to become a regular starter for Arsene Wenger and won major plaudits for his performance during Arsenal’s 2-1 Champions League first-leg victory over Barcelona in February.
Rising to prominence as the season progressed, Wilshere made inroads into Fabio Capello’s plans and made his full debut in England’s 2-1 friendly victory over Denmark before making a competitive bow for the Three Lions in the 2-0 Euro 2012 qualifying victory over Wales.
Wilshere joins an illustrious list of previous winners of the award such as Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard but the decision to grant the Arsenal play-maker the honor contradicts the views of Goal.com followers in a recent poll.
Readers voted Manchester United’s Nani as deserving of the award with 27.96% of the vote, just nudging out the successful Wilshere with 27.06%.
The award will prove some form of consolation for the Arsenal midfielder as his side was thwarted at the death by Liverpool in Sunday’s vital Premier League clash.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger furious at award of late Liverpool penalty
Arsene Wenger could not hide his annoyance after watching his Arsenal side concede a 101st minute penalty to Liverpool as the two sides drew 1-1 at the Emirates.
The game seemed to be heading for a goalless draw until Jay Spearing felled Cesc Fabregas in the seventh minute of injury time for a penalty, that Robin van Persie converted, to seemingly keep them in the hunt, with Manchester United, for title glory.
However, there was to be one final twist left in the game and it came in the 101st minute when a Luis Suarez free-kick hit the wall and deflected away from the goal. Lucas chased after it, only to be bundled over by Emmanuel Eboue for another penalty.
Dirk Kuyt stepped up and fired home the kick that surely all but extinguished Arsenal’s title hopes.
After the game, Wenger appeared incredulous that the penalty was given.
"But extra time was only eight minutes,” he appealed on Sky Sports. “I wanted to get the players away from the referee and after having watched it again I don't think it was a penalty. At all.
“The referee [thought he] saw a penalty, so it was a penalty. What can you do?
“We have to continue to play and fight until the last minute [of the season]. That's what we are about and that's what we want to show.
“We have players who are ambitious and want to do as well as we can. We had disappointments in August and we had to bounce back. That's what we will do.”
Wenger also insisted his side felt "hard done by" at the end of the game but he insisted the Gunners would continue their title fight despite the disappointment.
“It was a game where Liverpool defended and defended and we had to throw everything forward," he added.
“It's not easy to keep a clean sheet. I feel we were hard done by in the end because time was over by three minutes and you were told that just after the free-kick it was game over but we have to take it and continue to fight.
The game seemed to be heading for a goalless draw until Jay Spearing felled Cesc Fabregas in the seventh minute of injury time for a penalty, that Robin van Persie converted, to seemingly keep them in the hunt, with Manchester United, for title glory.
However, there was to be one final twist left in the game and it came in the 101st minute when a Luis Suarez free-kick hit the wall and deflected away from the goal. Lucas chased after it, only to be bundled over by Emmanuel Eboue for another penalty.
Dirk Kuyt stepped up and fired home the kick that surely all but extinguished Arsenal’s title hopes.
After the game, Wenger appeared incredulous that the penalty was given.
"But extra time was only eight minutes,” he appealed on Sky Sports. “I wanted to get the players away from the referee and after having watched it again I don't think it was a penalty. At all.
“The referee [thought he] saw a penalty, so it was a penalty. What can you do?
“We have to continue to play and fight until the last minute [of the season]. That's what we are about and that's what we want to show.
“We have players who are ambitious and want to do as well as we can. We had disappointments in August and we had to bounce back. That's what we will do.”
Wenger also insisted his side felt "hard done by" at the end of the game but he insisted the Gunners would continue their title fight despite the disappointment.
“It was a game where Liverpool defended and defended and we had to throw everything forward," he added.
“It's not easy to keep a clean sheet. I feel we were hard done by in the end because time was over by three minutes and you were told that just after the free-kick it was game over but we have to take it and continue to fight.
Arsenal blows its title hopes again and it is time Arsene Wenger pointed the finger at his players – and himself
Having taken the lead in stoppage time, the Gunners were quick to shoot themselves in the foot, as Dirk Kuyt's last-gasp equalizer shows yet another display of mental fragility.
Not for the first time, a goal in the last minute of a game between Liverpool and Arsenal has decided the destination of the title in England.
Dirk Kuyt's penalty in the 12th minute of added time at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday night will not live in the memory for quite as long as Michael Thomas' Anfield winner for the Gunners in 1989.
In front of Stan Kroenke, the American businessman who has taken over the club, Arsenal showed exactly why it will not win the Premier League this season, and exactly why Manchester United will triumph in the top flight of English football for a 19th time.
Arsene Wenger's reaction at the end of the game spoke a thousand words from a man who had already conceded that failure to beat the Merseysiders would effectively end his side's title tilt.
The Frenchman first sought a row with Reds boss Kenny Dalglish, then marched onto the pitch to confront referee Andre Marriner before finally spewing his frustration to the press.
He complained about the length of additional time after the 90 minutes, he vehemently protested against the decision to award Liverpool's penalty and took every opportunity to take a dig at the visitors' “negative” tactics.
What Wenger did not do was accept the home truths that have confronted him in Arsenal's last three games at this stadium.
He knew Arsenal had blown it but was looking to point the finger anywhere but his own players – or even himself – for yet another display of complete mental fragility. The Gunners only had to hold on for five minutes following Robin van Persie's spot-kick to claim all three points against a Liverpool side that barely mustered a shot on target during the match.
When asked about Emmanuel Eboue's clumsy challenge on Lucas that gave Marriner no choice but to point to the spot, Wenger insisted that the Ivorian had not fouled the Liverpool midfielder, refused to acknowledge the naivety of Arsenal's defending and the utter panic in the side once they had taken the lead.
"If Arsenal's Invincibles won the Premier League in 2004, then it is the Invertebrates who have blown their chance of glory this year"
This was more or less Arsenal's first-choice attack, with Cesc Fabregas, Jack Wilshere, Samir Nasri, Theo Walcott and Van Persie all in the same team against a Liverpool side that was devastated by injuries before and during the game.
Yet the Gunners were completely devoid of ideas, drive and creativity – just as they were in a dire goalless draw against Blackburn in their previous outing at the Emirates. The frustration in the crowd boiled over into anger on many occasions, particularly in the second half as Liverpool was able to get a body in the way of Arsenal's intricate passing moves.
Arsenal needed a killer instinct but Fabregas could not produce a match-winning pass; it needed a touch of class in front of goal but Van Persie smashed a clear chance straight at Pepe Reina; it needed a bit of luck but Laurent Koscielny's header hit the crossbar and bounced away from the goal.
But it has been the same story for Arsenal throughout the season and the opposite for Manchester United, which has constantly proved its mental strength collectively and as individuals.
Wenger's side now sits six points behind United with six games to play. It is a gap they will not close and the players' reactions at the final whistle, their body language as they trudged off the field, suggested they know that to be true.
“Bottlers” was the word one fan sat near the press box screamed towards the players, his face puce with rage and sheer emotion. He had gone through the agony of watching Arsenal toil, the relief of them taking the lead, and the resignation of watching them throw it away. Any Gunners supporter who had been at the League Cup final would not have been surprised.
Wenger needs to change both the mindset and the personnel to make sure that six years without a trophy does not become seven next season. Kroenke has made it clear he has no intention of interfering with the football side of the club, but he could do worse than give Wenger a metaphorical kick up the backside to make sure Arsenal sign a proven central defender who can lead from the back.
Wenger's refrain when he oversaw great Arsenal sides of the past used to always be about “mental strength”, now he talks about “character” almost sheepishly, knowing that he is in charge of a team with about as much backbone as an earthworm.
If Arsenal's Invincibles won the Premier League in 2004, then it is the Invertebrates who have blown their chance of glory this year.
Wenger and his new boss need to accept that if the club is to move on into a new era.
Not for the first time, a goal in the last minute of a game between Liverpool and Arsenal has decided the destination of the title in England.
Dirk Kuyt's penalty in the 12th minute of added time at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday night will not live in the memory for quite as long as Michael Thomas' Anfield winner for the Gunners in 1989.
In front of Stan Kroenke, the American businessman who has taken over the club, Arsenal showed exactly why it will not win the Premier League this season, and exactly why Manchester United will triumph in the top flight of English football for a 19th time.
Arsene Wenger's reaction at the end of the game spoke a thousand words from a man who had already conceded that failure to beat the Merseysiders would effectively end his side's title tilt.
The Frenchman first sought a row with Reds boss Kenny Dalglish, then marched onto the pitch to confront referee Andre Marriner before finally spewing his frustration to the press.
He complained about the length of additional time after the 90 minutes, he vehemently protested against the decision to award Liverpool's penalty and took every opportunity to take a dig at the visitors' “negative” tactics.
What Wenger did not do was accept the home truths that have confronted him in Arsenal's last three games at this stadium.
He knew Arsenal had blown it but was looking to point the finger anywhere but his own players – or even himself – for yet another display of complete mental fragility. The Gunners only had to hold on for five minutes following Robin van Persie's spot-kick to claim all three points against a Liverpool side that barely mustered a shot on target during the match.
When asked about Emmanuel Eboue's clumsy challenge on Lucas that gave Marriner no choice but to point to the spot, Wenger insisted that the Ivorian had not fouled the Liverpool midfielder, refused to acknowledge the naivety of Arsenal's defending and the utter panic in the side once they had taken the lead.
"If Arsenal's Invincibles won the Premier League in 2004, then it is the Invertebrates who have blown their chance of glory this year"
This was more or less Arsenal's first-choice attack, with Cesc Fabregas, Jack Wilshere, Samir Nasri, Theo Walcott and Van Persie all in the same team against a Liverpool side that was devastated by injuries before and during the game.
Yet the Gunners were completely devoid of ideas, drive and creativity – just as they were in a dire goalless draw against Blackburn in their previous outing at the Emirates. The frustration in the crowd boiled over into anger on many occasions, particularly in the second half as Liverpool was able to get a body in the way of Arsenal's intricate passing moves.
Arsenal needed a killer instinct but Fabregas could not produce a match-winning pass; it needed a touch of class in front of goal but Van Persie smashed a clear chance straight at Pepe Reina; it needed a bit of luck but Laurent Koscielny's header hit the crossbar and bounced away from the goal.
But it has been the same story for Arsenal throughout the season and the opposite for Manchester United, which has constantly proved its mental strength collectively and as individuals.
Wenger's side now sits six points behind United with six games to play. It is a gap they will not close and the players' reactions at the final whistle, their body language as they trudged off the field, suggested they know that to be true.
“Bottlers” was the word one fan sat near the press box screamed towards the players, his face puce with rage and sheer emotion. He had gone through the agony of watching Arsenal toil, the relief of them taking the lead, and the resignation of watching them throw it away. Any Gunners supporter who had been at the League Cup final would not have been surprised.
Wenger needs to change both the mindset and the personnel to make sure that six years without a trophy does not become seven next season. Kroenke has made it clear he has no intention of interfering with the football side of the club, but he could do worse than give Wenger a metaphorical kick up the backside to make sure Arsenal sign a proven central defender who can lead from the back.
Wenger's refrain when he oversaw great Arsenal sides of the past used to always be about “mental strength”, now he talks about “character” almost sheepishly, knowing that he is in charge of a team with about as much backbone as an earthworm.
If Arsenal's Invincibles won the Premier League in 2004, then it is the Invertebrates who have blown their chance of glory this year.
Wenger and his new boss need to accept that if the club is to move on into a new era.
Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool: Kuyt scores penalty with final kick of the game as Gunners blow chance to close gap on Manchester United
Late drama at the Emirates Stadium denies Arsenal three points in their hunt to catch Manchester United.
Two penalties in injury time turned a frustrating game into the most shocking finale to a Premier League game in a long time as Robin Van Persie gave Arsenal the lead before Dirk Kuyt denied the hosts in the 101st minute as Arsenal and Liverpool drew 1-1 on Sunday.
The build-up before the game was all about Arsenal’s chances of leap-frogging Manchester United for an unlikely Premier League title. A win was a must. But, as a rather convenient metaphor for the subsequent display from the hosts, it turned out to be all talk and no end product. Before the explosive finale that is.
Arsenal came out of the traps the quickest with Abou Diaby flashing a downward header just past the post after a mere 3 minutes from a Samir Nasri freekick.
But true to form in this fixture, it wasn’t just one side intent on attacking as Liverpool caused the home side problems with the link-up play between the towering figure of Andy Carroll up front, the same man who scored the solitary goal in a Newcastle victory at the Emirates earlier in the season, and Luis Suarez.
Minutes later, at first glance, a seemingly innocuous penalty claim for Liverpool after Jay Spearing was felled was quickly waved away by referee Andre Marriner, but replays showed that the away side could perhaps consider themselves unlucky.
The returning Theo Walcott tested Pepe Reina after 12 minutes with a swerving 22-yard effort that the goalkeeper opted to punch rather than gather, with a moment of panic among the Liverpool defense ensued before they regained their composure and hacked the ball clear.
Again Arsenal came forward though and came within inches of taking the lead when Laurent Koscielny’s header, from a Robin van Persie corner, crashed back off the cross bar as Reina again looked shaky.
Arsenal were definitely the side on top, and soon they had the ball in the back of the net. Cue cheers from the home fans. Unfortunately for them they were short lived as the goalscorer, Van Persie, was correctly adjudged to be offside when collecting the ball and it was back to square one.
With Arsenal providing all its threat down the flanks, Liverpool’s chances of containing the Gunners were handed a blow when Fabio Aurelio was forced off through injury mid-way through the first half, to be replaced by the second rookie full-back of the game in the form of Jack Robinson.
Reina, obviously not enjoying the continuing trend of the game coming towards his goal rather than goal, made another error shortly afterwards when he came out to stop Van Persie’s dart towards his goal but inexplicably missed the ball and the man and only the Dutchman’s momentum carried the ball harmlessly out for a goalkick with the goal unmanned.
If rumors of Arsenal making an approach for Reina last summer are true, on this performance the Spaniard is probably not expecting the same call this summer.
Another returning player, Johan Djourou, was also making an impact, after Walcott’s earlier wicked shot, by helping Arsenal control the midfield and dominate possession, so as both sides walked down the tunnel at the end of the first half only one winner was evident. Unfortunately it was the team playing all the pretty football, but nothing of note when it came to end product.
It was heart-in-mouth time again for Liverpool in the opening stages of the second half, but this time not because of an Arsenal attack. Record signing Andy Carroll collapsed inside the opposition area when he lost his footing stretching for a ball and immediately waved for help from the touchline.
Replays showed a buckling of the knee when his ankle gave way but after a couple of minutes on the sidelines, the striker reappeared to solider on.
This was quickly followed by more injury woes for the away side when Jamie Carragher clashed heads with John Flanagan when attempting to clear an Arsenal attack, and immediately fell to the floor unconscious.
Unfortunately this time the player did not recover as quickly and Sotirios Kyrgiakos came on in replace of the Liverpool captain.
After the extended pause to the action, Arsenal picked up where it left off as Walcott did well down the right flank to find space for a low driven cross towards Van Persie, only for Reina to intercept with a low save before the Dutchman could pounce.
It may have been all Arsenal, but Liverpool looked like being able to snatch a goal, as Carroll and Suarez again combined for the latter to cut inside from the right and bend a shot in, but Szczesny was never troubled and made a comfortable save.
It wasn’t long before the earlier injury caught up with Carroll though as 10 minutes later he was reluctantly substituted in place of Jonjo Shelvey. A good call though as the striker was not moving freely.
More pretty link-up play from Arsenal, but more groans from their fans as great vision from Fabregas allowed the ball to be slid into the path of Van Persie, but the striker went for a delicate dink rather than a shot and Skrtel was able to clear.
With Wenger desperately looking to keep their title challenge alive and tension building all around the ground, Nicholas Bendtner and Andrey Arshavin were introduced for the last 20 minutes, unfortunately Bendtner’s first touch was to over-hit a first touch out for a goal kick.
As the minutes ticked by, both teams knew only one goal was in this and Liverpool knew it was there for the taking as Flanagan and Suarez tried to combine for another hopeful effort but the pass from the former was over-hit. Cue groans from the away support.
Every single misplaced pass, bad first touch, wrong decision was being derided by the ever-increasingly frustrated Arsenal fans as an Arshavin fluffed attempted cross did not appease them. Cue more groans.
As it turned out, there was one gilt-edged chance that Arsenal made to grab a winner. With five minutes remaining, and persisting with tippy-tappy football, a glorious flick by Nasri with his heel set Van Persie scampering into the area one-on-one with Reina, only for the latter to make the vital save and keep Arsenal out. That could well be the save that denied Arsenal a title. Ironic for the apparent long-term admirers of the goalkeeper.
As the fourth official announced that there would be a massive eight minutes of injury time, most fans surely would have been happy to call it a day. They will be happy they didn’t though as in the seventh minute of injury time Jay Spearing tripped Cesc Fabregas as the latter ran into the box. A blatant penalty. Van Persie duly stepped up and reignited the title challenge fire for Arsenal. Surely?
No. As in the 100th minute of the game, Eboue bundled over Lucas inside the Arsenal area as the Brazilian was running away from the Arsenal goal to gather a deflected Suarez freekick. Another penalty. Dirk Kuyt converted under supreme pressure. The final nail in Arsenal’s title dream? Perhaps.
As the sounds of the referee’s whistle ended the game and flew out of the stadium, it could well have been accompanied by Arsenal’s title hopes for another season.
Two penalties in injury time turned a frustrating game into the most shocking finale to a Premier League game in a long time as Robin Van Persie gave Arsenal the lead before Dirk Kuyt denied the hosts in the 101st minute as Arsenal and Liverpool drew 1-1 on Sunday.
The build-up before the game was all about Arsenal’s chances of leap-frogging Manchester United for an unlikely Premier League title. A win was a must. But, as a rather convenient metaphor for the subsequent display from the hosts, it turned out to be all talk and no end product. Before the explosive finale that is.
Arsenal came out of the traps the quickest with Abou Diaby flashing a downward header just past the post after a mere 3 minutes from a Samir Nasri freekick.
But true to form in this fixture, it wasn’t just one side intent on attacking as Liverpool caused the home side problems with the link-up play between the towering figure of Andy Carroll up front, the same man who scored the solitary goal in a Newcastle victory at the Emirates earlier in the season, and Luis Suarez.
Minutes later, at first glance, a seemingly innocuous penalty claim for Liverpool after Jay Spearing was felled was quickly waved away by referee Andre Marriner, but replays showed that the away side could perhaps consider themselves unlucky.
The returning Theo Walcott tested Pepe Reina after 12 minutes with a swerving 22-yard effort that the goalkeeper opted to punch rather than gather, with a moment of panic among the Liverpool defense ensued before they regained their composure and hacked the ball clear.
Again Arsenal came forward though and came within inches of taking the lead when Laurent Koscielny’s header, from a Robin van Persie corner, crashed back off the cross bar as Reina again looked shaky.
Arsenal were definitely the side on top, and soon they had the ball in the back of the net. Cue cheers from the home fans. Unfortunately for them they were short lived as the goalscorer, Van Persie, was correctly adjudged to be offside when collecting the ball and it was back to square one.
With Arsenal providing all its threat down the flanks, Liverpool’s chances of containing the Gunners were handed a blow when Fabio Aurelio was forced off through injury mid-way through the first half, to be replaced by the second rookie full-back of the game in the form of Jack Robinson.
Reina, obviously not enjoying the continuing trend of the game coming towards his goal rather than goal, made another error shortly afterwards when he came out to stop Van Persie’s dart towards his goal but inexplicably missed the ball and the man and only the Dutchman’s momentum carried the ball harmlessly out for a goalkick with the goal unmanned.
If rumors of Arsenal making an approach for Reina last summer are true, on this performance the Spaniard is probably not expecting the same call this summer.
Another returning player, Johan Djourou, was also making an impact, after Walcott’s earlier wicked shot, by helping Arsenal control the midfield and dominate possession, so as both sides walked down the tunnel at the end of the first half only one winner was evident. Unfortunately it was the team playing all the pretty football, but nothing of note when it came to end product.
It was heart-in-mouth time again for Liverpool in the opening stages of the second half, but this time not because of an Arsenal attack. Record signing Andy Carroll collapsed inside the opposition area when he lost his footing stretching for a ball and immediately waved for help from the touchline.
Replays showed a buckling of the knee when his ankle gave way but after a couple of minutes on the sidelines, the striker reappeared to solider on.
This was quickly followed by more injury woes for the away side when Jamie Carragher clashed heads with John Flanagan when attempting to clear an Arsenal attack, and immediately fell to the floor unconscious.
Unfortunately this time the player did not recover as quickly and Sotirios Kyrgiakos came on in replace of the Liverpool captain.
After the extended pause to the action, Arsenal picked up where it left off as Walcott did well down the right flank to find space for a low driven cross towards Van Persie, only for Reina to intercept with a low save before the Dutchman could pounce.
It may have been all Arsenal, but Liverpool looked like being able to snatch a goal, as Carroll and Suarez again combined for the latter to cut inside from the right and bend a shot in, but Szczesny was never troubled and made a comfortable save.
It wasn’t long before the earlier injury caught up with Carroll though as 10 minutes later he was reluctantly substituted in place of Jonjo Shelvey. A good call though as the striker was not moving freely.
More pretty link-up play from Arsenal, but more groans from their fans as great vision from Fabregas allowed the ball to be slid into the path of Van Persie, but the striker went for a delicate dink rather than a shot and Skrtel was able to clear.
With Wenger desperately looking to keep their title challenge alive and tension building all around the ground, Nicholas Bendtner and Andrey Arshavin were introduced for the last 20 minutes, unfortunately Bendtner’s first touch was to over-hit a first touch out for a goal kick.
As the minutes ticked by, both teams knew only one goal was in this and Liverpool knew it was there for the taking as Flanagan and Suarez tried to combine for another hopeful effort but the pass from the former was over-hit. Cue groans from the away support.
Every single misplaced pass, bad first touch, wrong decision was being derided by the ever-increasingly frustrated Arsenal fans as an Arshavin fluffed attempted cross did not appease them. Cue more groans.
As it turned out, there was one gilt-edged chance that Arsenal made to grab a winner. With five minutes remaining, and persisting with tippy-tappy football, a glorious flick by Nasri with his heel set Van Persie scampering into the area one-on-one with Reina, only for the latter to make the vital save and keep Arsenal out. That could well be the save that denied Arsenal a title. Ironic for the apparent long-term admirers of the goalkeeper.
As the fourth official announced that there would be a massive eight minutes of injury time, most fans surely would have been happy to call it a day. They will be happy they didn’t though as in the seventh minute of injury time Jay Spearing tripped Cesc Fabregas as the latter ran into the box. A blatant penalty. Van Persie duly stepped up and reignited the title challenge fire for Arsenal. Surely?
No. As in the 100th minute of the game, Eboue bundled over Lucas inside the Arsenal area as the Brazilian was running away from the Arsenal goal to gather a deflected Suarez freekick. Another penalty. Dirk Kuyt converted under supreme pressure. The final nail in Arsenal’s title dream? Perhaps.
As the sounds of the referee’s whistle ended the game and flew out of the stadium, it could well have been accompanied by Arsenal’s title hopes for another season.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
wenger -sell fab
Maybe they believed their own publicity
Maybe they were over indulged, poisoned by praise.
But Arsenal’s under-achievers have run out of excuses.
It’s a time of reckoning, of retribution.
Click here to find out more!
Those who lack spirit and a sense of responsibility should be surplus to requirements.
Cesc Fabregas has been diminished by disappointment and recurrent injury.
He should be allowed to return to Barcelona... if they will have him.
****
Which manager will summon the courage to emulate Brian Clough?
He made a point of siding with referees.
His punishment of indisciplined players was brutally public.
It carried subliminal messages of support.
Human nature ensured the benefit of the doubt went Cloughie’s way.
Who is going to be Mike Riley’s new best friend?
Maybe they were over indulged, poisoned by praise.
But Arsenal’s under-achievers have run out of excuses.
It’s a time of reckoning, of retribution.
Click here to find out more!
Those who lack spirit and a sense of responsibility should be surplus to requirements.
Cesc Fabregas has been diminished by disappointment and recurrent injury.
He should be allowed to return to Barcelona... if they will have him.
****
Which manager will summon the courage to emulate Brian Clough?
He made a point of siding with referees.
His punishment of indisciplined players was brutally public.
It carried subliminal messages of support.
Human nature ensured the benefit of the doubt went Cloughie’s way.
Who is going to be Mike Riley’s new best friend?
wenger must change his way
It is just like having a row with your favourite uncle.
You love him, think the world of him and never dreamed it could come to this.
But that is exactly what has happened among Arsenal fans, and it is Arsene Wenger who is playing the role as lovable ageing relative.
It's hard to contemplate life without him, but he's upset you, you're angry and, no matter how much you love him, your patience is being tested.
Click here to find out more!
Trouble is, some of the family are on your side but the majority are staying loyal to Uncle Arsene. If my family is anything to go by, no wonder passions are running high. There's a nasty split.
And that is certainly what happened at the Emirates on Saturday. Hard to believe that a place labelled The Library (a nickname brought across from Highbury) by cynics and frequented by Islington's latte sipping classes could arouse such anger.
But fights broke out at the Emirates during and after Saturday's goalless draw with Blackburn, and dear old Uncle Arsene was the cause.
They were just odd pockets of scuffles and would usually be glossed over at some clubs. But civil war has broken out at Arsenal, and you can only hope the club's hierarchy are listening.
There is one obvious way to broker peace talks - and that is for Arsenal to win a trophy. Sadly for Arsenal fans, their last remaining hope from their quadruple dream is the Premier League title and they are seven points adrift of Manchester United.
Fulham now have their statue of Michael Jackson. Arsenal need one of Jim Bowen with the inscription underneath: "Look what you could have won."
The fights at the Emirates, from what I'm told, consisted of people abusing certain players (Manuel Almunia), then turning their annoyance towards the manager, and leaving even earlier than usual in protest.
Wenger loyalists defended the team and the manager's honour. There were pushes and scuffles, and even fists. Staff handing out Club Level renewal forms - with tickets going up by 6.5 per cent next season - also got stick.
That's one of the grievances. Arsenal are charging top dollar for tickets but are buying at the bargain basement. Example: Sebastien Squillaci. Forget what happened to Tottenham in Madrid, Squillaci is not a patch on William Gallas.
The truth is that Arsenal and Wenger have not listened to their fans. Everyone in January was saying that Arsenal should buy reinforcements, particularly in central defence.
But Wenger didn't want to pay over the odds for Gary Cahill even though, the critics argue, they're happy to charge over the odds for expensive tickets.
It's easy for journalists, pundits and ex-players to stand up for Wenger. He is, after all, the most successful manager in the club's post-war history. Probably the greatest of all time.
But that is to ignore what the fans are saying. They know they are lucky to be in the top four each and every year. But do you win a trophy for that? No. That might be the measure of success for the club, but not for the fans.
Arsenal fans want some silverware. You don't get a cup for finishing third. And if the club ignore that then they are being extremely foolish.
They're not a finishing school, or a business with a plan of getting in the Champions League each season.
Arsenal also isn't merely a theatre run just to put on pretty football. If you want the theatre then go to The Old Vic.
It is a football club with fans who desperately want to win things. The fans are getting restless because, being realistic, it is going to be six years this summer since they last did.
Wenger set out his long term plan and kept faith with players who have time and again not realised their potential and yet they are still on the scene.
Arsenal used to buy proven quality. Gilberto Silva and Thierry Henry were World Cup winners when they arrived. Arsenal don't buy from that bracket anymore.
But just imagine what a few experienced, quality players alongside the likes of Jack Wilshere, Samir Nasri and Robin van Persie could achieve. What an incredible prospect.
Wilshere is going to rule the world, so why not complement him with more world class talent?
I still think the majority of Arsenal fans are backing Wenger. But even many of those want him to change his ways and to buy better players.
Sadly, there is a growing minority who aren't backing Wenger. There's a few fringe groups who want change now. They want a new manager this summer.
They want that change because the club has ignored them in the past couple of summers and their dissent and frustration has grown.
They were the ones who were shouting the odds on Saturday. And the trouble is, Arsenal desperately need to listen to them. They need to address issues to stop even the ardent Wenger loyalists from growing disillusioned.
This is not about getting rid of the manager. It's about getting the manager to tweak his philosophy. David Dein used to have his ear. Who does that now? Who tells him that a new player is needed or a change in the set-up?
I often joke that Wenger will decide when it's time for the board to sack him. But that's the truth. His contract expires in 2014 and don't expect him to leave before then.
What must be ensured is that he retires on a high and in glory. He's been a brilliant manager for Arsenal, the Premier League and for the footballing world. He deserves better than an ugly, painful exit.
However, for Wenger to go out on a high, he needs to change. That much is obvious. The last six years hasn't worked. His faith in players is admirable but when will Denilson, Diaby, Rosicky, Eboue and so on ever realise their potential?
It is time for change and it's no secret - he has hinted as much publicly - that Wenger is planning a clear out and shake-up.
But the players coming in have to be of proven quality. Forget the £2m bargains or free transfers. It's time to spend £18m on Cahill and a similar amount on a striker. A midfielder would be good, too.
Don't believe the nonsense about not being any money. There is money. Wenger has chosen not to spend it. He didn't want to pay over the odds.
But fans won't stomach that much longer. They also don't want to hear conspiracy theories about playing on a Sunday after Manchester United.
The league programme is set out, 38 games, 19 home and 19 away. It's open to everyone. Same rules, same refs, no mystery men at the Premier League plotting Arsenal's downfall. Fergie doesn't think he gets a fair deal either. It's Paranoia City.
Wenger still has the majority of the fans. But the boss of any company would be foolish not to listen to the concerns of their backers, be it shareholders or fans.
They want top quality, proven signings, strength in depth, leaders and a trophy. You can't have one without the other.
And unless Wenger addresses the key issues this summer, expect more fisticuffs next season. And what a shame that would be for one of the all-time greats to see his reign end in bitter disappointment.
You love him, think the world of him and never dreamed it could come to this.
But that is exactly what has happened among Arsenal fans, and it is Arsene Wenger who is playing the role as lovable ageing relative.
It's hard to contemplate life without him, but he's upset you, you're angry and, no matter how much you love him, your patience is being tested.
Click here to find out more!
Trouble is, some of the family are on your side but the majority are staying loyal to Uncle Arsene. If my family is anything to go by, no wonder passions are running high. There's a nasty split.
And that is certainly what happened at the Emirates on Saturday. Hard to believe that a place labelled The Library (a nickname brought across from Highbury) by cynics and frequented by Islington's latte sipping classes could arouse such anger.
But fights broke out at the Emirates during and after Saturday's goalless draw with Blackburn, and dear old Uncle Arsene was the cause.
They were just odd pockets of scuffles and would usually be glossed over at some clubs. But civil war has broken out at Arsenal, and you can only hope the club's hierarchy are listening.
There is one obvious way to broker peace talks - and that is for Arsenal to win a trophy. Sadly for Arsenal fans, their last remaining hope from their quadruple dream is the Premier League title and they are seven points adrift of Manchester United.
Fulham now have their statue of Michael Jackson. Arsenal need one of Jim Bowen with the inscription underneath: "Look what you could have won."
The fights at the Emirates, from what I'm told, consisted of people abusing certain players (Manuel Almunia), then turning their annoyance towards the manager, and leaving even earlier than usual in protest.
Wenger loyalists defended the team and the manager's honour. There were pushes and scuffles, and even fists. Staff handing out Club Level renewal forms - with tickets going up by 6.5 per cent next season - also got stick.
That's one of the grievances. Arsenal are charging top dollar for tickets but are buying at the bargain basement. Example: Sebastien Squillaci. Forget what happened to Tottenham in Madrid, Squillaci is not a patch on William Gallas.
The truth is that Arsenal and Wenger have not listened to their fans. Everyone in January was saying that Arsenal should buy reinforcements, particularly in central defence.
But Wenger didn't want to pay over the odds for Gary Cahill even though, the critics argue, they're happy to charge over the odds for expensive tickets.
It's easy for journalists, pundits and ex-players to stand up for Wenger. He is, after all, the most successful manager in the club's post-war history. Probably the greatest of all time.
But that is to ignore what the fans are saying. They know they are lucky to be in the top four each and every year. But do you win a trophy for that? No. That might be the measure of success for the club, but not for the fans.
Arsenal fans want some silverware. You don't get a cup for finishing third. And if the club ignore that then they are being extremely foolish.
They're not a finishing school, or a business with a plan of getting in the Champions League each season.
Arsenal also isn't merely a theatre run just to put on pretty football. If you want the theatre then go to The Old Vic.
It is a football club with fans who desperately want to win things. The fans are getting restless because, being realistic, it is going to be six years this summer since they last did.
Wenger set out his long term plan and kept faith with players who have time and again not realised their potential and yet they are still on the scene.
Arsenal used to buy proven quality. Gilberto Silva and Thierry Henry were World Cup winners when they arrived. Arsenal don't buy from that bracket anymore.
But just imagine what a few experienced, quality players alongside the likes of Jack Wilshere, Samir Nasri and Robin van Persie could achieve. What an incredible prospect.
Wilshere is going to rule the world, so why not complement him with more world class talent?
I still think the majority of Arsenal fans are backing Wenger. But even many of those want him to change his ways and to buy better players.
Sadly, there is a growing minority who aren't backing Wenger. There's a few fringe groups who want change now. They want a new manager this summer.
They want that change because the club has ignored them in the past couple of summers and their dissent and frustration has grown.
They were the ones who were shouting the odds on Saturday. And the trouble is, Arsenal desperately need to listen to them. They need to address issues to stop even the ardent Wenger loyalists from growing disillusioned.
This is not about getting rid of the manager. It's about getting the manager to tweak his philosophy. David Dein used to have his ear. Who does that now? Who tells him that a new player is needed or a change in the set-up?
I often joke that Wenger will decide when it's time for the board to sack him. But that's the truth. His contract expires in 2014 and don't expect him to leave before then.
What must be ensured is that he retires on a high and in glory. He's been a brilliant manager for Arsenal, the Premier League and for the footballing world. He deserves better than an ugly, painful exit.
However, for Wenger to go out on a high, he needs to change. That much is obvious. The last six years hasn't worked. His faith in players is admirable but when will Denilson, Diaby, Rosicky, Eboue and so on ever realise their potential?
It is time for change and it's no secret - he has hinted as much publicly - that Wenger is planning a clear out and shake-up.
But the players coming in have to be of proven quality. Forget the £2m bargains or free transfers. It's time to spend £18m on Cahill and a similar amount on a striker. A midfielder would be good, too.
Don't believe the nonsense about not being any money. There is money. Wenger has chosen not to spend it. He didn't want to pay over the odds.
But fans won't stomach that much longer. They also don't want to hear conspiracy theories about playing on a Sunday after Manchester United.
The league programme is set out, 38 games, 19 home and 19 away. It's open to everyone. Same rules, same refs, no mystery men at the Premier League plotting Arsenal's downfall. Fergie doesn't think he gets a fair deal either. It's Paranoia City.
Wenger still has the majority of the fans. But the boss of any company would be foolish not to listen to the concerns of their backers, be it shareholders or fans.
They want top quality, proven signings, strength in depth, leaders and a trophy. You can't have one without the other.
And unless Wenger addresses the key issues this summer, expect more fisticuffs next season. And what a shame that would be for one of the all-time greats to see his reign end in bitter disappointment.
question and answer session with wenger
n all of my years covering Arsenal, including almost all of Arsene Wenger's reign, rarely have I seen the manager been so upset, passionate and defiant at a press conference as he was yesterday afternoon.
After a week of unprecedented criticism from fans in which even the Arsenal Supporters' Trust expressed their "considerable disappointment", Wenger had to face some tough questions.
Questions on whether this season had been a failure, his spending policy, why is there not more experience and whether he'd walk away if fans continued to be so upset.
At Arsenal press conferences (both pre-match and after games), they do a section in front of the cameras and then they are switched off for the written media to put their questions. This is not filmed.
Click here to find out more!
In the past, Wenger has always enjoyed a good cordial relationship with the written media but, understandably, defended his players, the club and his own record with passionate replies to some tough questions.
Here is the transcript from Friday's written press conference.
Q: You've had a fantastic career here and no-one is disputing that, but can you understand why some supporters wish there was a bit more experience there, thinking about what you may achieved if there was?
A: "I'm against superficial judgement, that's what I fight against. For example people ask 'why don't you buy central defenders?' We have a better defence than Man United if you look at the numbers, but nobody mentions that. And should we kick Vermaelen, Djourou and Szczesny out? What for?
Q: You said the team had done well for its age, so isn't experience an issue?
A: "We've done well for our age as we're second in the league. Is that a disaster for you? There are teams who invest ten times more than us, one player cost more than the whole team and they're behind us. I don't understand the way people think.
Q: It's what the supporters are thinking though, that's the issue.
A: "Do not hide behind what the supporters think, tell me what you think. You do not know what the supporters think because what people write is only 5 per cent of what they see on the internet. There are 95 per cent others.
Q: But it's not my money, it's the supporters who are paying to watch:
A: "How many supporters are complaining?"
Q: But there were people complaining after the Blackburn match.
A: "At every game I find people complaining. What are you talking about? I don't understand supporters complaining."
Q: Compared to four years ago, they weren't complaining, because it wasn't so long without a trophy?
A: "Do you judge this season or the last four seasons? Some of the clubs behind us have done nothing for 20 years, yet suddenly they get a lot of praise. I don't understand. We have eight games to go and are in a position to fight for the Championship so let's give the maximum. If we're disappointed at the end then okay. Why do you say it's a disaster when we're second in the league? Do the 18 clubs behind us have a fantastic disaster?"
Q: Are you a victim of your own success?
A: "I'm a victim of nothing. I try to do my job as well as I can, and that's it."
Q: But you are judged against your own success?
A: "I told you just now. To be consistent at the top level is the most difficult and important thing in our job. We've been in the Champions League for 15 years, and there's only two clubs who've done that in this country. It's Arsenal and Man United."
Q: Arsene, everyone respects the job you've done, but shouldn't a club like Arsenal be judged on the trophies they win? And obviously in the last six years there haven't been any trophies?
A: "Trophies are one way to judge a club."
Q: Are trophies an over rated way to judge success?
A: "They're not overrated as it allows you to say you've won a trophy, but would you swap winning the FA Cup for playing in the Champions League? Is it a trophy or not to be in the Champions League? Is it more important to win the FA Cup? We do as well as we can, and if it's not good enough it's not good enough. But what I deny is that everything is suddenly negative. We've built this club. Tomorrow, you look at the players in this team and I'll speak to you in 10 years."
Q: We know you've had some fabulous offers to leave this club - Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester City - if this continues will it make you think about leaving, if you're not being appreciated?
A: "I don't think about leaving. I love this club and do the maximum for them. I don't think like that. When I make a commitment I give absolutely everything. At the end of the season I'll look back and see what we've done well and not done well. We should not go overboard. We're second in the league so it's not a scandal. Where is the common sense there?
"I do as well as I can with the players I have. What's important for me is how well we do. All the rest I don't care about.
Q: Where would this club be without you, Arsene?
A: "I don't know where Arsenal would be without me, maybe better, maybe worse. I hope one day maybe better. I'm happy that the club goes on and gets better. But we shouldn't think we have the right to be where we are."
Q: I've rarely seen you so passionate, so upset, are you hurt?
A: "I'm not hurt at all, but I defend what we do here and the way we do it. That's all. I don't see why we should be negative when we're going for the Championship. I'm having to answer why it's a disaster. I'll have to stop talking and you write what you want. If I cannot defend that, we're second in the league and fighting for the Championship then I should stay at home, but I'm in a fighting job."
Q: Arsene, sometimes there's a criticism that you don't sign the quality of player that you used to. Have you had a change in policy?
A: "Of course, we've had a change in policy to sign younger players. It's important for football that there's another way then to just come in, put money on the table and buy a star. I feel it's very important for football."
Q: Can you expand on that?
A: "No, I don't want to expand on that. The way we are doing things is right. Personally, I'm rather proud of this team, proud of the players, if I look at this team I'm proud of them, proud of the attitude of the players and the football we play. It's only in this country that we have to face what we face. If you go anywhere else in the world Arsenal are given much more credit, I can tell you."
Q: You spoke about the age gap to Barcelona as perhaps one reason why you haven't won trophies, but how will that change if you're always bringing younger and younger players into the squad?
A: "That's why it's important to keep these players together."
Q: What about the stadium. It's important to get into the piece, to be positive, to get into the piece, because that impacted on your spending and yet no-one's talking about that? You haven't then been able to sign big players?
A: "Nobody talks about the fact we built a new stadium. We have many big players in this team, and the future will tell you that. Whether they play here or somewhere else, you'll realise they're big players."
Arsenal chairman brands own supporters as 'silly people' who 'do quite a lot of damage'
After a week of unprecedented criticism from fans in which even the Arsenal Supporters' Trust expressed their "considerable disappointment", Wenger had to face some tough questions.
Questions on whether this season had been a failure, his spending policy, why is there not more experience and whether he'd walk away if fans continued to be so upset.
At Arsenal press conferences (both pre-match and after games), they do a section in front of the cameras and then they are switched off for the written media to put their questions. This is not filmed.
Click here to find out more!
In the past, Wenger has always enjoyed a good cordial relationship with the written media but, understandably, defended his players, the club and his own record with passionate replies to some tough questions.
Here is the transcript from Friday's written press conference.
Q: You've had a fantastic career here and no-one is disputing that, but can you understand why some supporters wish there was a bit more experience there, thinking about what you may achieved if there was?
A: "I'm against superficial judgement, that's what I fight against. For example people ask 'why don't you buy central defenders?' We have a better defence than Man United if you look at the numbers, but nobody mentions that. And should we kick Vermaelen, Djourou and Szczesny out? What for?
Q: You said the team had done well for its age, so isn't experience an issue?
A: "We've done well for our age as we're second in the league. Is that a disaster for you? There are teams who invest ten times more than us, one player cost more than the whole team and they're behind us. I don't understand the way people think.
Q: It's what the supporters are thinking though, that's the issue.
A: "Do not hide behind what the supporters think, tell me what you think. You do not know what the supporters think because what people write is only 5 per cent of what they see on the internet. There are 95 per cent others.
Q: But it's not my money, it's the supporters who are paying to watch:
A: "How many supporters are complaining?"
Q: But there were people complaining after the Blackburn match.
A: "At every game I find people complaining. What are you talking about? I don't understand supporters complaining."
Q: Compared to four years ago, they weren't complaining, because it wasn't so long without a trophy?
A: "Do you judge this season or the last four seasons? Some of the clubs behind us have done nothing for 20 years, yet suddenly they get a lot of praise. I don't understand. We have eight games to go and are in a position to fight for the Championship so let's give the maximum. If we're disappointed at the end then okay. Why do you say it's a disaster when we're second in the league? Do the 18 clubs behind us have a fantastic disaster?"
Q: Are you a victim of your own success?
A: "I'm a victim of nothing. I try to do my job as well as I can, and that's it."
Q: But you are judged against your own success?
A: "I told you just now. To be consistent at the top level is the most difficult and important thing in our job. We've been in the Champions League for 15 years, and there's only two clubs who've done that in this country. It's Arsenal and Man United."
Q: Arsene, everyone respects the job you've done, but shouldn't a club like Arsenal be judged on the trophies they win? And obviously in the last six years there haven't been any trophies?
A: "Trophies are one way to judge a club."
Q: Are trophies an over rated way to judge success?
A: "They're not overrated as it allows you to say you've won a trophy, but would you swap winning the FA Cup for playing in the Champions League? Is it a trophy or not to be in the Champions League? Is it more important to win the FA Cup? We do as well as we can, and if it's not good enough it's not good enough. But what I deny is that everything is suddenly negative. We've built this club. Tomorrow, you look at the players in this team and I'll speak to you in 10 years."
Q: We know you've had some fabulous offers to leave this club - Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester City - if this continues will it make you think about leaving, if you're not being appreciated?
A: "I don't think about leaving. I love this club and do the maximum for them. I don't think like that. When I make a commitment I give absolutely everything. At the end of the season I'll look back and see what we've done well and not done well. We should not go overboard. We're second in the league so it's not a scandal. Where is the common sense there?
"I do as well as I can with the players I have. What's important for me is how well we do. All the rest I don't care about.
Q: Where would this club be without you, Arsene?
A: "I don't know where Arsenal would be without me, maybe better, maybe worse. I hope one day maybe better. I'm happy that the club goes on and gets better. But we shouldn't think we have the right to be where we are."
Q: I've rarely seen you so passionate, so upset, are you hurt?
A: "I'm not hurt at all, but I defend what we do here and the way we do it. That's all. I don't see why we should be negative when we're going for the Championship. I'm having to answer why it's a disaster. I'll have to stop talking and you write what you want. If I cannot defend that, we're second in the league and fighting for the Championship then I should stay at home, but I'm in a fighting job."
Q: Arsene, sometimes there's a criticism that you don't sign the quality of player that you used to. Have you had a change in policy?
A: "Of course, we've had a change in policy to sign younger players. It's important for football that there's another way then to just come in, put money on the table and buy a star. I feel it's very important for football."
Q: Can you expand on that?
A: "No, I don't want to expand on that. The way we are doing things is right. Personally, I'm rather proud of this team, proud of the players, if I look at this team I'm proud of them, proud of the attitude of the players and the football we play. It's only in this country that we have to face what we face. If you go anywhere else in the world Arsenal are given much more credit, I can tell you."
Q: You spoke about the age gap to Barcelona as perhaps one reason why you haven't won trophies, but how will that change if you're always bringing younger and younger players into the squad?
A: "That's why it's important to keep these players together."
Q: What about the stadium. It's important to get into the piece, to be positive, to get into the piece, because that impacted on your spending and yet no-one's talking about that? You haven't then been able to sign big players?
A: "Nobody talks about the fact we built a new stadium. We have many big players in this team, and the future will tell you that. Whether they play here or somewhere else, you'll realise they're big players."
Arsenal chairman brands own supporters as 'silly people' who 'do quite a lot of damage'
wenger with bad boy rooney
Arsene Wenger today ripped up the prospectus for his exclusive Arsenal School and admitted that taking on so many impeccably behaved pupils had taken his football finishing school in the wrong direction.
Six years without any awards tells its own story. Despite appearing attractive on the surface, the curriculum at the Arsenal school of science has become sterile.
Some devilment and steel is needed, particularly at the front of the class, although two uncompromising scholars at the back would not go amiss either.
Wayne Rooney, at the Manchester United academy, has been up before the headmaster on numerous occasions but continues to deliver his work on time with impressive results.
Click here to find out more!
Wenger has now decided to broaden his intake next term and consider those who have been in trouble in the past and who are repeat offenders. Joey Barton need not apply.
The Arsenal academics have often presented a goody-goody image that has been easy to overcome.
Expect a scholarship being awarded to Gennaro Gattuso of the Institute of Milan (primarily for his head butt on Joe Jordan.)
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/columnists/terry-butcher/Terry-Butcher-column-Why-Arsene-Wenger-could-do-with-a-bad-boy-like-Wayne-Rooney-at-his-Arsenal-Academy-of-Excellence-article721762.html#ixzz1JDXlpCW0
Sign up for MirrorFootball's Morning Spy newsletter Register here
Six years without any awards tells its own story. Despite appearing attractive on the surface, the curriculum at the Arsenal school of science has become sterile.
Some devilment and steel is needed, particularly at the front of the class, although two uncompromising scholars at the back would not go amiss either.
Wayne Rooney, at the Manchester United academy, has been up before the headmaster on numerous occasions but continues to deliver his work on time with impressive results.
Click here to find out more!
Wenger has now decided to broaden his intake next term and consider those who have been in trouble in the past and who are repeat offenders. Joey Barton need not apply.
The Arsenal academics have often presented a goody-goody image that has been easy to overcome.
Expect a scholarship being awarded to Gennaro Gattuso of the Institute of Milan (primarily for his head butt on Joe Jordan.)
Read more: http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/opinion/columnists/terry-butcher/Terry-Butcher-column-Why-Arsene-Wenger-could-do-with-a-bad-boy-like-Wayne-Rooney-at-his-Arsenal-Academy-of-Excellence-article721762.html#ixzz1JDXlpCW0
Sign up for MirrorFootball's Morning Spy newsletter Register here
Blackpool 1 - 3 Arsenal
Arsenal kept up the pressure on Premier League leaders Manchester United and maintained their title hopes with victory at Blackpool.
Arsene Wenger's side have reduced United's lead to seven points with a game in hand - despite veteran 41-year-old keeper Jens Lehmann being thrust into his first start for the club in three years after Manuel Almunia was injured in the warm-up.
Lehmann had a relatively untroubled first half as Arsenal established firm control courtesy of two goals in three minutes through Abou Diaby and Emmanuel Eboue.
Arsenal could have built up an unassailable lead before half-time as Samir Nasri hit a post and was also denied by Blackpool keeper Richard Kingson.
Blackpool launched an assault on The Gunners after the break as Gary Taylor-Fletcher pulled a goal back after 52 minutes and then appeared to be denied a clear penalty by referee Lee Mason when he was brought down by Laurent Koscielny.
Boss Ian Holloway will not just regard that incident as a pivotal moment, with Keith Southern somehow failing to even make contact with a header in front of an open goal as Arsenal suffered a serious wobble and frailties were exposed.
Wenger introduced Theo Walcott to give Arsenal extra pace and thrust, and the ploy worked when he raced clear to set up Robin van Persie for the crucial third 14 minutes from time.
There was still time for Lehmann - on a short-term deal at Arsenal and only a week shy of being the oldest player ever to play for the club by overtaking 1920s star Jock Rutherford - to show some of the old instincts by saving with his legs as DJ Campbell looked certain to give Blackpool hope of a late recovery.
Wenger's frustration at Arsenal's recent collapse was obvious before the game - but this victory will lift the spirits of manager, players and supporters as they still retain hope of catching United.
For Blackpool, this defeat increased their relegation worries and extended a dismal sequence of losing 11 out of 15 Premier League games since the turn of the year.
There was drama even before kick-off when it became clear Almunia was struggling with a knee injury as he warmed up in the goalmouth, forcing a hasty rewrite of Wenger's team-sheet and the return of former Germany keeper Lehmann to the colours.
After that late change, it was inevitable that Blackpool would attempt to apply early heavy pressure on Lehmann - but his only moment of discomfort came when he attempted to take a goal-kick with a lace undone.
Van Persie gave a sign of problems to come for Blackpool when he escaped the offside trap to run on to Cesc Fabregas' pass but his touch was heavy off his chest and Kingson raced smartly from his line to claim.
Blackpool's reprieve was brief as their defensive shortcomings were brutally revealed when Arsenal took the lead. Van Persie was allowed too much time and space on the left flank and his cross was met by the easiest of finishes from Diaby.
And three minutes later Arsenal doubled their advantage as Blackpool's defence was once more nowhere to be seen as Eboue drove into the area before sending a thumping finish past Kingson.
Holloway immediately moved towards the touchline to reorganise and attempt to lift his players, whose bright start had been totally undermined by their calamitous lack of composure and organisation at the back.
Charlie Adam, predictably, was probing and trying to spark life into Blackpool - but the task was proving even beyond the player who has provided so much inspiration in this eventful season by the seaside.
Arsenal threatened to unlock Blackpool's defence every time they attacked and Nasri almost increased their lead twice in the space of seconds as the interval loomed. He brought a fine block from Kingson before striking the outside of an upright after collecting Fabregas' clever lofted pass in the area.
Lehmann was finally given a serious anxious moment in the dying seconds of the half when Taylor-Fletcher and Adam combined in the area and it needed desperate defending to keep Blackpool out in a six-yard scramble.
Holloway had clearly delivered stern words to his players at half-time. They steamed into Arsenal on the resumption and Luke Varney should have done better than steer Adam's free-kick wide.
It was not long, however, before Blackpool did get the goal their renewed ambition deserved. And great credit must go to referee Mason, who twice played advantage before Taylor-Fletcher scored from close range.
Jack Wilshere committed a foul for which he was booked and Lehmann hauled down Campell as he raced into the area but Mason waited crucially to see how the play developed, allowing Taylor-Fletcher to ignite the contest.
Mason did not draw any credit from Blackpool or Holloway moments later when Taylor-Fletcher was clearly caught by Koscielny's trailing leg in the area. It looked a certain penalty but to Bloomfield Road's fury - and Arsenal's undoubted relief - he waved play on.
And, as Arsenal rocked, Southern missed a header with the goal gaping in front of him and Lehmann unprotected.
Wenger needed to restore a measure of order to proceedings and introduced Walcott for Andrey Arshavin, who had been very much on the margins of the game.
Van Persie almost restored Arsenal's two-goal lead as Blackpool pressed for the leveller, shooting just wide and then sending a spectacular volley over the angle from Fabregas' pass.
The Netherlands striker made no mistake when handed a third opportunity. It was a goal that owed almost everything to Walcott, who exploited time and space to leave Van Persie to complete a formality of a finish.
Blackpool were denied a grandstand finish when Lehmann saved from Campbell - but Arsenal will have travelled back to the capital with their dreams of winning the title still alive.
Arsene Wenger's side have reduced United's lead to seven points with a game in hand - despite veteran 41-year-old keeper Jens Lehmann being thrust into his first start for the club in three years after Manuel Almunia was injured in the warm-up.
Lehmann had a relatively untroubled first half as Arsenal established firm control courtesy of two goals in three minutes through Abou Diaby and Emmanuel Eboue.
Arsenal could have built up an unassailable lead before half-time as Samir Nasri hit a post and was also denied by Blackpool keeper Richard Kingson.
Blackpool launched an assault on The Gunners after the break as Gary Taylor-Fletcher pulled a goal back after 52 minutes and then appeared to be denied a clear penalty by referee Lee Mason when he was brought down by Laurent Koscielny.
Boss Ian Holloway will not just regard that incident as a pivotal moment, with Keith Southern somehow failing to even make contact with a header in front of an open goal as Arsenal suffered a serious wobble and frailties were exposed.
Wenger introduced Theo Walcott to give Arsenal extra pace and thrust, and the ploy worked when he raced clear to set up Robin van Persie for the crucial third 14 minutes from time.
There was still time for Lehmann - on a short-term deal at Arsenal and only a week shy of being the oldest player ever to play for the club by overtaking 1920s star Jock Rutherford - to show some of the old instincts by saving with his legs as DJ Campbell looked certain to give Blackpool hope of a late recovery.
Wenger's frustration at Arsenal's recent collapse was obvious before the game - but this victory will lift the spirits of manager, players and supporters as they still retain hope of catching United.
For Blackpool, this defeat increased their relegation worries and extended a dismal sequence of losing 11 out of 15 Premier League games since the turn of the year.
There was drama even before kick-off when it became clear Almunia was struggling with a knee injury as he warmed up in the goalmouth, forcing a hasty rewrite of Wenger's team-sheet and the return of former Germany keeper Lehmann to the colours.
After that late change, it was inevitable that Blackpool would attempt to apply early heavy pressure on Lehmann - but his only moment of discomfort came when he attempted to take a goal-kick with a lace undone.
Van Persie gave a sign of problems to come for Blackpool when he escaped the offside trap to run on to Cesc Fabregas' pass but his touch was heavy off his chest and Kingson raced smartly from his line to claim.
Blackpool's reprieve was brief as their defensive shortcomings were brutally revealed when Arsenal took the lead. Van Persie was allowed too much time and space on the left flank and his cross was met by the easiest of finishes from Diaby.
And three minutes later Arsenal doubled their advantage as Blackpool's defence was once more nowhere to be seen as Eboue drove into the area before sending a thumping finish past Kingson.
Holloway immediately moved towards the touchline to reorganise and attempt to lift his players, whose bright start had been totally undermined by their calamitous lack of composure and organisation at the back.
Charlie Adam, predictably, was probing and trying to spark life into Blackpool - but the task was proving even beyond the player who has provided so much inspiration in this eventful season by the seaside.
Arsenal threatened to unlock Blackpool's defence every time they attacked and Nasri almost increased their lead twice in the space of seconds as the interval loomed. He brought a fine block from Kingson before striking the outside of an upright after collecting Fabregas' clever lofted pass in the area.
Lehmann was finally given a serious anxious moment in the dying seconds of the half when Taylor-Fletcher and Adam combined in the area and it needed desperate defending to keep Blackpool out in a six-yard scramble.
Holloway had clearly delivered stern words to his players at half-time. They steamed into Arsenal on the resumption and Luke Varney should have done better than steer Adam's free-kick wide.
It was not long, however, before Blackpool did get the goal their renewed ambition deserved. And great credit must go to referee Mason, who twice played advantage before Taylor-Fletcher scored from close range.
Jack Wilshere committed a foul for which he was booked and Lehmann hauled down Campell as he raced into the area but Mason waited crucially to see how the play developed, allowing Taylor-Fletcher to ignite the contest.
Mason did not draw any credit from Blackpool or Holloway moments later when Taylor-Fletcher was clearly caught by Koscielny's trailing leg in the area. It looked a certain penalty but to Bloomfield Road's fury - and Arsenal's undoubted relief - he waved play on.
And, as Arsenal rocked, Southern missed a header with the goal gaping in front of him and Lehmann unprotected.
Wenger needed to restore a measure of order to proceedings and introduced Walcott for Andrey Arshavin, who had been very much on the margins of the game.
Van Persie almost restored Arsenal's two-goal lead as Blackpool pressed for the leveller, shooting just wide and then sending a spectacular volley over the angle from Fabregas' pass.
The Netherlands striker made no mistake when handed a third opportunity. It was a goal that owed almost everything to Walcott, who exploited time and space to leave Van Persie to complete a formality of a finish.
Blackpool were denied a grandstand finish when Lehmann saved from Campbell - but Arsenal will have travelled back to the capital with their dreams of winning the title still alive.
Hamburg to offer Bendtner a German lifeline if Wenger lets him go
Hamburg will offer Nicklas Bendtner a way out of Arsenal if Arsene Wenger makes radical changes.
The Bundesliga side will have Chelsea sporting director Frank Arnesen in charge of transfers at the end of the season and he is a fan of his Danish compatriot.
Bendtner, 23, who once said he was one of the 'best strikers in the world', has failed to score a Premier League goal in 2011 but could join the German side for about £8million.
Hamburg will offer Nicklas Bendtner a way out of Arsenal if Arsene Wenger makes radical changes.
The Bundesliga side will have Chelsea sporting director Frank Arnesen in charge of transfers at the end of the season and he is a fan of his Danish compatriot.
Bendtner, 23, who once said he was one of the 'best strikers in the world', has failed to score a Premier League goal in 2011 but could join the German side for about £8million.
The Bundesliga side will have Chelsea sporting director Frank Arnesen in charge of transfers at the end of the season and he is a fan of his Danish compatriot.
Bendtner, 23, who once said he was one of the 'best strikers in the world', has failed to score a Premier League goal in 2011 but could join the German side for about £8million.
Hamburg will offer Nicklas Bendtner a way out of Arsenal if Arsene Wenger makes radical changes.
The Bundesliga side will have Chelsea sporting director Frank Arnesen in charge of transfers at the end of the season and he is a fan of his Danish compatriot.
Bendtner, 23, who once said he was one of the 'best strikers in the world', has failed to score a Premier League goal in 2011 but could join the German side for about £8million.
Arsene Wenger says second place is 'not a disaster'
Arsene Wenger insists failure to win a trophy for a sixth successive season would not be a "disaster" for Arsenal.
The Arsenal Supporters' Trust recently expressed "considerable disappointment" at recent results.
The Gunners boss said: "We are second in the league. Is that a disaster? There are teams who invest 10 times more than us, and they are behind us.
"Some of the clubs behind us have done nothing for 20 years, yet suddenly get a lot of praise. I don't understand."
He added: "If we are disappointed at the end [of the season] then OK. Why do you say it's a disaster when we are second in the league? Do the 18 clubs behind us have a fantastic disaster?"
The Gunners are second in the Premier League behind Manchester United, but were knocked out of the FA Cup and the Champions League in the last six weeks, as well as losing the Carling Cup final to Birmingham.
They have not won a trophy since the FA Cup in 2005 - but have been a permanent fixture in the top four of the table, earning regular Champions League participation.
And the Frenchman wants any criticism of his team to be put into context, insisting they are heading in the right direction.
Wenger went on: "We have been in the Champions League for 15 years, and there are only two clubs who have done that in this country - it is us and Manchester United.
"Trophies are one way to judge a club. They're not overrated as it allows you to say you have won a trophy, but would you swap winning the FA Cup for playing in the Champions League?
"Is it a trophy or not to be in the Champions League? Is it more important to win the FA Cup?"
"We do as well as we can, and if it's not good enough it's not good enough, but what I deny is that everything is suddenly negative. We have built this club. Look at the players in this team. I will speak to you in 10 years."
Wenger also gave a staunch defence of his policy to invest in youth rather than signing proven stars, adding: "We have done well for our age as we are second in the league.
"There are teams who invest 10 times more than us, one player cost more than the whole team and they are behind us. I don't understand the way people think."
Having dropped points at home in the draw with 10-man Blackburn last weekend, Arsenal trail leaders United by seven points with a game in hand.
Ahead of Saturday's trip to Bloomfield Road to take on Ian Holloway's Blackpool, Wenger urged everyone involved with the club to get behind the team as they chase a first title since 2004.
"We have eight games to go and are in a position to fight for the championship, so let's give the maximum," he said.
"If I cannot defend the fact that we are second in the league and fighting for the championship then I should stay at home, but I am in a fighting job."
Wenger reaffirmed his belief that this Arsenal team will enjoy success, and can rise above any criticism that comes their way.
"If I look at this team I'm proud of them, proud of the attitude of the players and the football we play," he added.
"It's only in this country that we have to face what we face. If you go anywhere else in the world Arsenal are given much more credit, I can tell you."
The Arsenal Supporters' Trust recently expressed "considerable disappointment" at recent results.
The Gunners boss said: "We are second in the league. Is that a disaster? There are teams who invest 10 times more than us, and they are behind us.
"Some of the clubs behind us have done nothing for 20 years, yet suddenly get a lot of praise. I don't understand."
He added: "If we are disappointed at the end [of the season] then OK. Why do you say it's a disaster when we are second in the league? Do the 18 clubs behind us have a fantastic disaster?"
The Gunners are second in the Premier League behind Manchester United, but were knocked out of the FA Cup and the Champions League in the last six weeks, as well as losing the Carling Cup final to Birmingham.
They have not won a trophy since the FA Cup in 2005 - but have been a permanent fixture in the top four of the table, earning regular Champions League participation.
And the Frenchman wants any criticism of his team to be put into context, insisting they are heading in the right direction.
Wenger went on: "We have been in the Champions League for 15 years, and there are only two clubs who have done that in this country - it is us and Manchester United.
"Trophies are one way to judge a club. They're not overrated as it allows you to say you have won a trophy, but would you swap winning the FA Cup for playing in the Champions League?
"Is it a trophy or not to be in the Champions League? Is it more important to win the FA Cup?"
"We do as well as we can, and if it's not good enough it's not good enough, but what I deny is that everything is suddenly negative. We have built this club. Look at the players in this team. I will speak to you in 10 years."
Wenger also gave a staunch defence of his policy to invest in youth rather than signing proven stars, adding: "We have done well for our age as we are second in the league.
"There are teams who invest 10 times more than us, one player cost more than the whole team and they are behind us. I don't understand the way people think."
Having dropped points at home in the draw with 10-man Blackburn last weekend, Arsenal trail leaders United by seven points with a game in hand.
Ahead of Saturday's trip to Bloomfield Road to take on Ian Holloway's Blackpool, Wenger urged everyone involved with the club to get behind the team as they chase a first title since 2004.
"We have eight games to go and are in a position to fight for the championship, so let's give the maximum," he said.
"If I cannot defend the fact that we are second in the league and fighting for the championship then I should stay at home, but I am in a fighting job."
Wenger reaffirmed his belief that this Arsenal team will enjoy success, and can rise above any criticism that comes their way.
"If I look at this team I'm proud of them, proud of the attitude of the players and the football we play," he added.
"It's only in this country that we have to face what we face. If you go anywhere else in the world Arsenal are given much more credit, I can tell you."
Arsenal seek to defuse fans row as Hill-Wood speaks out
Arsenal have sought to avert a row between disgruntled sections of their support and chairman Peter Hill-Wood.
Hill-Wood was quoted in a newspaper as saying supporters critical of the club's lack of trophies in recent seasons were "silly".
But in a statement, Arsenal said: "Emotions can run high in football many times throughout a season. It's because we all care about our club.
"Our fans are at the heart of what we do, and that will always be the case."
Arsenal are still in contention for the Premier League title but face the prospect of a sixth season without any silverware.
They lost to Barcelona over two legs Champions League in the first knockout round of the Champions League, lost the Carling Cup final to Birmingham City and had their FA Cup hopes ended in the sixth round by Manchester United.
But manager Arsene Wenger defended his players on Friday, saying: "Trophies are one way to judge a club... would you swap winning the FA Cup for playing in the Champions League?"
The Daily Star quoted Hill-Wood on Saturday as saying the Arsenal board remained "100% behind" Wenger.
"I simply cannot believe he will react to these stupid comments from these silly people," Hill-Wood said. "They are supposed to be supporters, but, in fact, they do quite a lot of damage.
"We have set the bar high and everybody expects us to achieve that every year, but it simply isn't possible."
Hill-Wood directed his anger towards the Arsenal Supporters Trust who earlier this week expressed "considerable disappointment" at recent results.
The AST meet regularly with the north London club's hierarchy, but Hill-Wood added: "They are in danger of us becoming less friendly with them. We haven't yet, but I am just saying we could become less friendly."
Second-placed Arsenal go into Sunday's match at Blackpool 10 points behind league leaders Manchester United.
The Gunners have two games in hand on the Red Devils but third-place Chelsea are now only a point behind the north Londoners having played one match more.
Hill-Wood was quoted in a newspaper as saying supporters critical of the club's lack of trophies in recent seasons were "silly".
But in a statement, Arsenal said: "Emotions can run high in football many times throughout a season. It's because we all care about our club.
"Our fans are at the heart of what we do, and that will always be the case."
Arsenal are still in contention for the Premier League title but face the prospect of a sixth season without any silverware.
They lost to Barcelona over two legs Champions League in the first knockout round of the Champions League, lost the Carling Cup final to Birmingham City and had their FA Cup hopes ended in the sixth round by Manchester United.
But manager Arsene Wenger defended his players on Friday, saying: "Trophies are one way to judge a club... would you swap winning the FA Cup for playing in the Champions League?"
The Daily Star quoted Hill-Wood on Saturday as saying the Arsenal board remained "100% behind" Wenger.
"I simply cannot believe he will react to these stupid comments from these silly people," Hill-Wood said. "They are supposed to be supporters, but, in fact, they do quite a lot of damage.
"We have set the bar high and everybody expects us to achieve that every year, but it simply isn't possible."
Hill-Wood directed his anger towards the Arsenal Supporters Trust who earlier this week expressed "considerable disappointment" at recent results.
The AST meet regularly with the north London club's hierarchy, but Hill-Wood added: "They are in danger of us becoming less friendly with them. We haven't yet, but I am just saying we could become less friendly."
Second-placed Arsenal go into Sunday's match at Blackpool 10 points behind league leaders Manchester United.
The Gunners have two games in hand on the Red Devils but third-place Chelsea are now only a point behind the north Londoners having played one match more.
Wenger - We want to be judged by actions
Arsène Wenger wants his team to be judged on its actions - and that means putting in a shift at Blackpool on Sunday.
The Arsenal manager and his players have been under fire in recent weeks after falling short in three cup competitions and falling behind Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title.
Opinions - most of them negative - have been thrown around like confetti since last weekend's 0-0 draw with Blackburn after a performance that Wenger admits was not of the required standard.
The Frenchman puts much of the vitriol directed at his team down to the nature of society and he knows that the critics will only get off Arsenal's back if they are 'up for it' at Bloomfield Road.
"That is what we want to show," said Wenger.
"You are judged only on your last game. We live in a society where everybody has an opinion and very few people do something. We have to act and we want to be judged on our actions.
"For the rest, our society lives at the moment only on opinion. I have grown up by judging people on what they do, not what they say. We want to be judged on Sunday on what we do, that means a good performance."
One of those 'opinions' came from former Gunner Paul Merson, who claimed this week that Arsenal lack a 'winning mentality'. Wenger believes he has enough experience to understand what his team is doing wrong - and where they are progressing.
"I do not want to go into the comments or individual opinion of people," he said. "I managed 1,500 games and I have to listen to many opinions of people who have done a bit less. I am ready to do it but not ready to comment on it.
"We understand that [it is a long time without a trophy]. We give our maximum and you have to accept people's opinion. Let's hope that in the whole of history we will never be more disappointed than [we are now]. If the situation remains like that, it is not too dramatic.
"I believe we have done well. We have been hit very hard with big disappointments but we have not lost in the FA or the Champions League against anybody, we have lost against good teams. In one week, we had three big disappointments.
"Personally, I am very proud of the attitude, the behaviour and the quality of our season. I will defend that until the end. It is important that we finish as well as we can and the quality of the team is linked with the mental attitude that we have and how much you are ready to fight until the end of the season."
The Arsenal manager and his players have been under fire in recent weeks after falling short in three cup competitions and falling behind Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title.
Opinions - most of them negative - have been thrown around like confetti since last weekend's 0-0 draw with Blackburn after a performance that Wenger admits was not of the required standard.
The Frenchman puts much of the vitriol directed at his team down to the nature of society and he knows that the critics will only get off Arsenal's back if they are 'up for it' at Bloomfield Road.
"That is what we want to show," said Wenger.
"You are judged only on your last game. We live in a society where everybody has an opinion and very few people do something. We have to act and we want to be judged on our actions.
"For the rest, our society lives at the moment only on opinion. I have grown up by judging people on what they do, not what they say. We want to be judged on Sunday on what we do, that means a good performance."
One of those 'opinions' came from former Gunner Paul Merson, who claimed this week that Arsenal lack a 'winning mentality'. Wenger believes he has enough experience to understand what his team is doing wrong - and where they are progressing.
"I do not want to go into the comments or individual opinion of people," he said. "I managed 1,500 games and I have to listen to many opinions of people who have done a bit less. I am ready to do it but not ready to comment on it.
"We understand that [it is a long time without a trophy]. We give our maximum and you have to accept people's opinion. Let's hope that in the whole of history we will never be more disappointed than [we are now]. If the situation remains like that, it is not too dramatic.
"I believe we have done well. We have been hit very hard with big disappointments but we have not lost in the FA or the Champions League against anybody, we have lost against good teams. In one week, we had three big disappointments.
"Personally, I am very proud of the attitude, the behaviour and the quality of our season. I will defend that until the end. It is important that we finish as well as we can and the quality of the team is linked with the mental attitude that we have and how much you are ready to fight until the end of the season."
Wenger - I'm not hurt, I'm staying positive
Arsène Wenger has had better weeks.
The Frenchman was crestfallen after watching his side struggle to a 0-0 draw against Blackburn last Saturday. After that game he could not put his finger on why Arsenal were, in his words, "so flat", when they had so much to play for.
Criticism has rained down on Wenger ever since - from those who pay to watch his players and from those who get paid to comment on his team. Some of it has been pretty strong stuff.
When the manager faced reporters at his pre-match press conference on Friday some of those insults, those perceived shortcomings, were repeated back to him. Given his right of reply, Wenger insisted that he had too much to fight for to succumb to the doom and gloom.
"I'm not hurt at all, but I defend what we do here and the way we do it," he said. "I don't see why we should be negative when we're going for the Championship.
"If I cannot defend the fact that we're second in the league and fighting for the Championship then I should stay at home, but I'm in a fighting job.
"I'm a victim of nothing. I try to do my job as well as I can, and that's it. To be consistent at the top level is the most difficult and important thing in our job. We've been in the Champions League for 15 years, and there's only two clubs who've done that in this country. It's us and Man United."
Last weekend Wenger was asked if he had taken his current squad as far as he can, prompting suggestions that his future at Arsenal might be in doubt. He put the record straight on Friday.
"I don't think about leaving," he said. "I love this club and do the maximum for them. I don't think like that. When I make a commitment I give absolutely everything.
"At the end of the season I'll look back and see what we've done well and not done well. We should not go overboard. We're second in the league so it's not a scandal. Where is the common sense?
"I do as well as I can with the players I have. What's important for me is how well we do. All the rest I don't care about. I don't know where Arsenal would be without me, maybe better, maybe worse. I hope one day maybe better.
"I'm happy that the Club goes on and gets better. But we shouldn't think we have the right to be where we are."
The Frenchman was crestfallen after watching his side struggle to a 0-0 draw against Blackburn last Saturday. After that game he could not put his finger on why Arsenal were, in his words, "so flat", when they had so much to play for.
Criticism has rained down on Wenger ever since - from those who pay to watch his players and from those who get paid to comment on his team. Some of it has been pretty strong stuff.
When the manager faced reporters at his pre-match press conference on Friday some of those insults, those perceived shortcomings, were repeated back to him. Given his right of reply, Wenger insisted that he had too much to fight for to succumb to the doom and gloom.
"I'm not hurt at all, but I defend what we do here and the way we do it," he said. "I don't see why we should be negative when we're going for the Championship.
"If I cannot defend the fact that we're second in the league and fighting for the Championship then I should stay at home, but I'm in a fighting job.
"I'm a victim of nothing. I try to do my job as well as I can, and that's it. To be consistent at the top level is the most difficult and important thing in our job. We've been in the Champions League for 15 years, and there's only two clubs who've done that in this country. It's us and Man United."
Last weekend Wenger was asked if he had taken his current squad as far as he can, prompting suggestions that his future at Arsenal might be in doubt. He put the record straight on Friday.
"I don't think about leaving," he said. "I love this club and do the maximum for them. I don't think like that. When I make a commitment I give absolutely everything.
"At the end of the season I'll look back and see what we've done well and not done well. We should not go overboard. We're second in the league so it's not a scandal. Where is the common sense?
"I do as well as I can with the players I have. What's important for me is how well we do. All the rest I don't care about. I don't know where Arsenal would be without me, maybe better, maybe worse. I hope one day maybe better.
"I'm happy that the Club goes on and gets better. But we shouldn't think we have the right to be where we are."
Wenger - I'm not concerned about my legacy
Arsène Wenger says he is more worried about the success of the current Arsenal side than the way he is remembered when he eventually leaves the Club.
The manager has overseen some historic moments during his 15-year tenure in north London, from the ‘Invincibles’ of 2003/04 and the double-winning side of 1997/98 to the move from Highbury into Arsenal’s new home of Emirates Stadium. But Wenger insists he is only concerned about the here and now.
"My worry is to do as well as I can with the team and get them to play decent football so that the people who come and pay for their tickets are not bored,” he said. “[The way I am remembered] is not my concern.
“I have watched a lot of games in my life and I think we have a clear conscience. We do not try to cheat our people, we do not always manage to but we try to give them something for the money they spend.
“We always have that ambition and if we do not have that ambition to do it, we are sorry. [But] we have that ambition.”
The manager has overseen some historic moments during his 15-year tenure in north London, from the ‘Invincibles’ of 2003/04 and the double-winning side of 1997/98 to the move from Highbury into Arsenal’s new home of Emirates Stadium. But Wenger insists he is only concerned about the here and now.
"My worry is to do as well as I can with the team and get them to play decent football so that the people who come and pay for their tickets are not bored,” he said. “[The way I am remembered] is not my concern.
“I have watched a lot of games in my life and I think we have a clear conscience. We do not try to cheat our people, we do not always manage to but we try to give them something for the money they spend.
“We always have that ambition and if we do not have that ambition to do it, we are sorry. [But] we have that ambition.”
Odemwingie Impresses Again, As Man Utd Extends Lead
SUPER Eagles Osaze Odemwingie continued his goalscoring run in the English Premier League as he fired his team, West Brom to a 3-2 win over homers, Sunderland yesterday.
Apart from scoring the equaliser, the Nigerian also provided both assist to send his team to the 10th position on the table.
Also, leaders Manchester United went 10 points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League as they enjoyed a straightforward 2-0 win at home to Fulham.
With second-placed Arsenal not in action until today, albeit with two games in hand now, United were comfortable as Dimitar Berbatov (12) and Antonio Valencia (32) put them two goals up by the break.
Nani played a starring role as he set up Berbatov following a lovely run forward before crossing to allow Valencia to nod home the second and while Fulham refused to roll over, there was never any danger of United being denied.
West Brom continued their resurgence under Roy Hodgson as they twice came from behind to win 3-2 at Sunderland and move into the top half of the table.
Baggies defender Nicky Shorey headed into his own net and though Peter Odemwingie slammed home an equaliser, Phil Bardsley’s rifled long-ranger made it 2-1 to the Black Cats.
Youssouf Mulumbu levelled early in the second half after being played in by Odemwingie and the same provider assisted once again for the Baggies’ third, Odemwingie crossing low from the right for Paul Scharner to sweep home and earn the win.
Florent Malouda ensured Chelsea did not lose further ground as they beat Wigan 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to remain 11 points off United.
Chelsea, with Fernando Torres on the bench, were sterile against the rock-bottom Latics and needed Malouda’s scrappy 67th-minute strike after Didier Drogba’s corner was not cleared to break the deadlock.
Torres came on in the second half but missed two good chances to break his Blues duck.
Peter Crouch scored twice on his return to action following his controversial red card against Real Madrid on Tuesday as Tottenham overcame Stoke 3-2 White Hart Lane.
The England striker scored either side of Luka Modric, though Matthew Etherington’s sublime run and finish and Kenwyne Jones’ strike kept the gap to one goal.
In the relegation tussle at the other end of the table, third-bottom West Ham were destroyed 3-0 at Bolton.
Daniel Sturridge’s sublime left-footed curler put the Trotters in front at the Reebok Stadium before Lee Chung-yong headed home the second after 20 minutes. Sturridge’s fine individual performance continued as he made it 3-0.
Liam Ridgewell’s mistake helped Blackburn take a 1-1 draw in their crunch clash at home to Birmingham as both sides moved three points clear of the bottom three.
Junior Hoilett robbed the Blues defender of the ball before converting in first-half added time to cancel out Lee Bowyer’s headed opener.
In the early game played yesterday, Wolves suffered a comprehensive 3-0 hammering as Everton wrapped up the win in the first half through Jermaine Beckford, Phil Neville and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov.
Apart from scoring the equaliser, the Nigerian also provided both assist to send his team to the 10th position on the table.
Also, leaders Manchester United went 10 points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League as they enjoyed a straightforward 2-0 win at home to Fulham.
With second-placed Arsenal not in action until today, albeit with two games in hand now, United were comfortable as Dimitar Berbatov (12) and Antonio Valencia (32) put them two goals up by the break.
Nani played a starring role as he set up Berbatov following a lovely run forward before crossing to allow Valencia to nod home the second and while Fulham refused to roll over, there was never any danger of United being denied.
West Brom continued their resurgence under Roy Hodgson as they twice came from behind to win 3-2 at Sunderland and move into the top half of the table.
Baggies defender Nicky Shorey headed into his own net and though Peter Odemwingie slammed home an equaliser, Phil Bardsley’s rifled long-ranger made it 2-1 to the Black Cats.
Youssouf Mulumbu levelled early in the second half after being played in by Odemwingie and the same provider assisted once again for the Baggies’ third, Odemwingie crossing low from the right for Paul Scharner to sweep home and earn the win.
Florent Malouda ensured Chelsea did not lose further ground as they beat Wigan 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to remain 11 points off United.
Chelsea, with Fernando Torres on the bench, were sterile against the rock-bottom Latics and needed Malouda’s scrappy 67th-minute strike after Didier Drogba’s corner was not cleared to break the deadlock.
Torres came on in the second half but missed two good chances to break his Blues duck.
Peter Crouch scored twice on his return to action following his controversial red card against Real Madrid on Tuesday as Tottenham overcame Stoke 3-2 White Hart Lane.
The England striker scored either side of Luka Modric, though Matthew Etherington’s sublime run and finish and Kenwyne Jones’ strike kept the gap to one goal.
In the relegation tussle at the other end of the table, third-bottom West Ham were destroyed 3-0 at Bolton.
Daniel Sturridge’s sublime left-footed curler put the Trotters in front at the Reebok Stadium before Lee Chung-yong headed home the second after 20 minutes. Sturridge’s fine individual performance continued as he made it 3-0.
Liam Ridgewell’s mistake helped Blackburn take a 1-1 draw in their crunch clash at home to Birmingham as both sides moved three points clear of the bottom three.
Junior Hoilett robbed the Blues defender of the ball before converting in first-half added time to cancel out Lee Bowyer’s headed opener.
In the early game played yesterday, Wolves suffered a comprehensive 3-0 hammering as Everton wrapped up the win in the first half through Jermaine Beckford, Phil Neville and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov.
Fashola To Flag Off MTN Street Soccer
LAGOS State Governor, Babatunde Fashola will flag-off the fourth edition of the MTN Lagos Street Soccer Championship today at the Campos Stadium.
Governor Fashola will also captain a team of dignitaries from the Lagos State Government against an MTN Team; comprising MTN executives in a novelty match that will kick-start the championship.
The opening event promises to be an exciting moment for all the participating teams and their supporters, as it is expected to draw a huge attendance of spectators, soccer icons and dignitaries.
“The MTN Lagos Street Soccer Championship has over the past three years advanced significantly as a medium of youth empowerment, talent discovery and grassroots development for sports in Nigeria,” says Kola Oyeyemi, MTN’s General Manager, Consumer Marketing.
“The championship has come to stay as it is adding value to the lives of football-loving youths in Lagos by helping them to realise their dreams. It is a viable platform for delivering the true value that MTN brings to grassroots soccer as well as the development of the game in the country,” he said.
Recalling the successful organisation of the last edition, Oyeyemi expressed optimism that this year’s championship would witness the discovery of more talents who would eventually fly the country’s flag in both national and international football tournaments.
Speaking in the same vein, Chairman of the Management Committee of the championship, Tajudeen Oladeji said this year’s championship would be better than the previous editions.
“Our plan is to improve on the success of last season and deliver a more successful competition in terms of organisation, administration and the overall impact to all the participants of the championship,” he assured.
With so much to vie for, about 500 teams will slug it out in the preliminary stages for a chance to qualify for the group stage of the Championship.
The champion will get a reward of N5 million and an all expense paid trip to Amsterdam, The Netherlands, while the first and second runner-up teams would enjoy an all expense paid trip to South Africa and The Gambia, with an additional cash prizes of N3 million and N2 million respectively.
Governor Fashola will also captain a team of dignitaries from the Lagos State Government against an MTN Team; comprising MTN executives in a novelty match that will kick-start the championship.
The opening event promises to be an exciting moment for all the participating teams and their supporters, as it is expected to draw a huge attendance of spectators, soccer icons and dignitaries.
“The MTN Lagos Street Soccer Championship has over the past three years advanced significantly as a medium of youth empowerment, talent discovery and grassroots development for sports in Nigeria,” says Kola Oyeyemi, MTN’s General Manager, Consumer Marketing.
“The championship has come to stay as it is adding value to the lives of football-loving youths in Lagos by helping them to realise their dreams. It is a viable platform for delivering the true value that MTN brings to grassroots soccer as well as the development of the game in the country,” he said.
Recalling the successful organisation of the last edition, Oyeyemi expressed optimism that this year’s championship would witness the discovery of more talents who would eventually fly the country’s flag in both national and international football tournaments.
Speaking in the same vein, Chairman of the Management Committee of the championship, Tajudeen Oladeji said this year’s championship would be better than the previous editions.
“Our plan is to improve on the success of last season and deliver a more successful competition in terms of organisation, administration and the overall impact to all the participants of the championship,” he assured.
With so much to vie for, about 500 teams will slug it out in the preliminary stages for a chance to qualify for the group stage of the Championship.
The champion will get a reward of N5 million and an all expense paid trip to Amsterdam, The Netherlands, while the first and second runner-up teams would enjoy an all expense paid trip to South Africa and The Gambia, with an additional cash prizes of N3 million and N2 million respectively.
Guiness says game is for fans
THE presence of top football personalities at the unveiling of the Grade A friendly match between the Eagles and the Argentine National team last month showed the importance attached to the game.
Football buffs, administrators and journalists, who were present at the venue, agreed that the encounter would be a good test for the new team, which Coach Samson Siasia is building.
The Argentines have won games between the two countries at both the U-20 and U-23 levels levels. The Super Eagles fell 2-1 to the Albicelestes at the USA ’94 World Cup and any hope of getting a revenge evaporated as the Eagles once again lost 1-0 to the South Americans at the 2002 World Cup.
Samson Siasia was also at the helms of affairs when the Flying Eagles and the Under 23 team lost to a Lionel Messi-inspired side in the final of the World Youth Championship in 2005 in Holland and the Olympic Games in 2008 in Beijing.
The Eagles under Coach Lars Lagerback also lost to the South Americans at last year’s World Cup in South Africa. So, the importance placed on the match is high and it would afford Siasia to the opportunity to settle scores with the Argentines.
However, for the sponsors of the game, Guinness Nigeria Plc, the tie would afford Nigerians the opportunity to see their emerging stars take on one of the best footballing nations.
While it is not certain whether the South Americans would come to town with two-time world Footballer of the Year, Messi, the sponsors are hopeful that the best of football would be on display at the Abuja National Stadium on match day.
To underline their readiness for the game, Guinness’ boss told journalists that the right of Nigerian football fans to see top games informed his company’s decision to bankroll the encounter.
“I am, therefore, delighted to announce Guinness The Match, a FIFA accredited football game, in response to the growing calls for the Super Eagles to be able to play world class competition with one of the top football nations of the world.
“And on behalf of Nigerian football fans, Guinness has negotiated with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the Argentine Football Association to bring the South American giant to play the Super Eagles on June 1.”
He added: “It would be the event of a lifetime that no true football fan should miss. Argentina — one of the world’s greatest football nations renowned for its touch of genius and creative play — have never before played on Nigerian soil and as a country that has produced some of the greatest footballers, people will be talking about this for a long time to come. And since Argentina beat Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup in 2010, there is definitely a lot at stake,” he said.
Announcing juicy offers, Hainsworth stated that passionate fans would have the opportunity to play a part in Guinness The Match including becoming an assistant coach to the Super-Eagles, be the official photographer, be an official TV and radio commentator as well as the chance get behind the scenes and see the teams at close quarters.
Chairman of Guinness Nigeria Plc, Babatunde Savage said that Nigeria being a great nation with great people deserves the best.
“Nigeria is a great nation of good people, many of whom are ardent and passionate followers of football. They just don’t follow our players and national teams but any game, anywhere in the world, particularly the English Premier League, Champions League, La Liga and of course the Africa Cup of Nations and The World Cup tournaments.
“Many of Nigeria’s football fans are also passionate fans of Guinness. Guinness is arguably Nigeria’s most beloved beer and we remain grateful to the people of Nigeria for their continued support,” he added.
Continuing, he said: “Through this sponsorship, Guinness celebrates the greatness of the players that represent our country and those around them who have inspired them to reach for greatness despite what sometimes look like a rollercoaster ride. So, we have decided to take positive action and reiterate our support for the nation’s fans and our national team.”
However, Siasia has said that he was ready for the challenge against Argentina on June 1 at the Abuja Stadium. His words: “I want to thank Guinness for stepping in and making this happen for Nigeria. The fans should be grateful to Guinness for this opportunity.
“It’s now down to us and the fans to make sure we show that we are a football nation worthy of respect. The match would also give us the chance to show that we have the potential to succeed on the world stage. We had played Argentina three times at senior national level in the past and they have been formidable opponents.
“They too are building for the future and from this game we can benchmark the progress of our future heroes against that of their future heroes. But we are ready for the challenge.
He continued: “I am well aware that if there is anything that makes Nigerians genuinely happy and love to be called Nigerians, it is the success of the Super Eagles. What makes Nigerians happy is what makes me happy. I am therefore determined to make sure that Guinness The Match on home soil on June 1, this year will be an epic encounter that will make Nigerians happy by making history and coming away with our first ever win against Argentina at senior national level.”
Football buffs, administrators and journalists, who were present at the venue, agreed that the encounter would be a good test for the new team, which Coach Samson Siasia is building.
The Argentines have won games between the two countries at both the U-20 and U-23 levels levels. The Super Eagles fell 2-1 to the Albicelestes at the USA ’94 World Cup and any hope of getting a revenge evaporated as the Eagles once again lost 1-0 to the South Americans at the 2002 World Cup.
Samson Siasia was also at the helms of affairs when the Flying Eagles and the Under 23 team lost to a Lionel Messi-inspired side in the final of the World Youth Championship in 2005 in Holland and the Olympic Games in 2008 in Beijing.
The Eagles under Coach Lars Lagerback also lost to the South Americans at last year’s World Cup in South Africa. So, the importance placed on the match is high and it would afford Siasia to the opportunity to settle scores with the Argentines.
However, for the sponsors of the game, Guinness Nigeria Plc, the tie would afford Nigerians the opportunity to see their emerging stars take on one of the best footballing nations.
While it is not certain whether the South Americans would come to town with two-time world Footballer of the Year, Messi, the sponsors are hopeful that the best of football would be on display at the Abuja National Stadium on match day.
To underline their readiness for the game, Guinness’ boss told journalists that the right of Nigerian football fans to see top games informed his company’s decision to bankroll the encounter.
“I am, therefore, delighted to announce Guinness The Match, a FIFA accredited football game, in response to the growing calls for the Super Eagles to be able to play world class competition with one of the top football nations of the world.
“And on behalf of Nigerian football fans, Guinness has negotiated with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the Argentine Football Association to bring the South American giant to play the Super Eagles on June 1.”
He added: “It would be the event of a lifetime that no true football fan should miss. Argentina — one of the world’s greatest football nations renowned for its touch of genius and creative play — have never before played on Nigerian soil and as a country that has produced some of the greatest footballers, people will be talking about this for a long time to come. And since Argentina beat Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup in 2010, there is definitely a lot at stake,” he said.
Announcing juicy offers, Hainsworth stated that passionate fans would have the opportunity to play a part in Guinness The Match including becoming an assistant coach to the Super-Eagles, be the official photographer, be an official TV and radio commentator as well as the chance get behind the scenes and see the teams at close quarters.
Chairman of Guinness Nigeria Plc, Babatunde Savage said that Nigeria being a great nation with great people deserves the best.
“Nigeria is a great nation of good people, many of whom are ardent and passionate followers of football. They just don’t follow our players and national teams but any game, anywhere in the world, particularly the English Premier League, Champions League, La Liga and of course the Africa Cup of Nations and The World Cup tournaments.
“Many of Nigeria’s football fans are also passionate fans of Guinness. Guinness is arguably Nigeria’s most beloved beer and we remain grateful to the people of Nigeria for their continued support,” he added.
Continuing, he said: “Through this sponsorship, Guinness celebrates the greatness of the players that represent our country and those around them who have inspired them to reach for greatness despite what sometimes look like a rollercoaster ride. So, we have decided to take positive action and reiterate our support for the nation’s fans and our national team.”
However, Siasia has said that he was ready for the challenge against Argentina on June 1 at the Abuja Stadium. His words: “I want to thank Guinness for stepping in and making this happen for Nigeria. The fans should be grateful to Guinness for this opportunity.
“It’s now down to us and the fans to make sure we show that we are a football nation worthy of respect. The match would also give us the chance to show that we have the potential to succeed on the world stage. We had played Argentina three times at senior national level in the past and they have been formidable opponents.
“They too are building for the future and from this game we can benchmark the progress of our future heroes against that of their future heroes. But we are ready for the challenge.
He continued: “I am well aware that if there is anything that makes Nigerians genuinely happy and love to be called Nigerians, it is the success of the Super Eagles. What makes Nigerians happy is what makes me happy. I am therefore determined to make sure that Guinness The Match on home soil on June 1, this year will be an epic encounter that will make Nigerians happy by making history and coming away with our first ever win against Argentina at senior national level.”
No Rooney, no problem as Man Utd march on
Manchester United shrugged off the absence of Wayne Rooney to defeat Fulham 2-0 at Old Trafford and open up a 10-point lead at the top of the Premier League on Saturday.
United, still furious at the two-match ban handed out to Rooney for swearing, secured all three points thanks to Dimitar Berbatov's 22nd goal of the season and a close-range header from Antonio Valencia.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson made eight changes from the side which defeated Chelsea 1-0 in the Champions League as he juggled his options ahead of next Tuesday's return leg at Old Trafford.
"It was an important win and at this stage of the season that's the name of the game," said Ferguson, who nevertheless was unhappy at United's display.
"I don't think it was a job well done at all. We were a bit casual and lackadaisical," he added.
United's victory keeps the pressure on second-placed Arsenal, who travel to Blackpool on Sunday knowing they can ill-afford any more slip-ups, even with their two games in hand over the leaders.
Chelsea kept alive their remote hopes of overhauling United with a 1-0 victory over Wigan at Stamford Bridge, Florent Malouda scoring the only goal as the Blues remained third, 11 points adrift of United.
But it was another disappointing afternoon for Chelsea's 50 million pound striker Fernando Torres, whose goal drought continued after he appeared as a second-half substitute.
Tottenham -- thrashed 4-0 by Real Madrid in midweek -- maintained their push for a place in next season's Champions League with a 3-2 win over Stoke at White Hart Lane to remain in fifth spot.
Peter Crouch bounced back from the disappointment of his red card in the Bernabeu to score twice, with Luka Modric grabbing Spurs' other goal.
Stoke's goals came Matthew Etherington and Kenwyne Jones.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp said he was pleased at the way his side responded to their drubbing by Madrid.
"We've had a setback at Real Madrid. But we've got to come back and go on a run in the league and try to get back in that top four," he said.
At the other end of the table, Wolves' battle against relegation suffered a setback as Everton romped to a 3-0 victory in the early kick-off at Molineux.
First-half goals from Jermaine Beckford, Phil Neville and Diniya Bilyaletdinov secured all three points for Everton, who remain in seventh spot after extending their unbeaten run to six matches.
But the defeat left Mick McCarthy's Wolves rooted in the relegation mire, with the midlands club second from bottom with only six games remaining.
Birmingham and Blackburn remain three points clear of the relegation zone after grinding out a 1-1 draw at Ewood Park.
Birmingham took the lead through a headed Lee Bowyer effort on 32 minutes only for Blackburn to level on half-time courtesy of David Hoilett.
West Ham missed the chance to pull themselves out of the drop zone after crashing to a 3-0 defeat at Bolton.
Bolton took the lead on 14 minutes with an exquisite strike from Daniel Sturridge, the on-loan Chelsea striker curling a shot from the edge of the area beyond the grasp of West Ham keeper Robert Green.
Lee Chung-Yong made it 2-0 for the Trotters on 20 minutes, heading in at the near post from Martin Petrov's cross before Sturridge grabbed his second.
West Bromwich Albion eased their relegation fears against Sunderland, twice coming from behind to snatch a 3-2 victory at the Stadium of Light as the Baggies revival under Roy Hodgson continued.
Sunderland took the lead courtesy of a Nicky Shorey own goal.
West Brom levelled it through Nigerian striker Peter Odemwingie but Sunderland grabbed the lead again on 31 minutes through Phil Bardsley.
The Baggies got back on level terms however after half-time with Congolese midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu rounding off a well-worked move to score.
Austrian international Paul Scharner then bagged the winner for West Brom on 72 minutes after another flowing move.
"It was a good performance and we deserved it for how hard we battled," Hodgson said. "It gives us some breathing space ahead of the bottom three."
United, still furious at the two-match ban handed out to Rooney for swearing, secured all three points thanks to Dimitar Berbatov's 22nd goal of the season and a close-range header from Antonio Valencia.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson made eight changes from the side which defeated Chelsea 1-0 in the Champions League as he juggled his options ahead of next Tuesday's return leg at Old Trafford.
"It was an important win and at this stage of the season that's the name of the game," said Ferguson, who nevertheless was unhappy at United's display.
"I don't think it was a job well done at all. We were a bit casual and lackadaisical," he added.
United's victory keeps the pressure on second-placed Arsenal, who travel to Blackpool on Sunday knowing they can ill-afford any more slip-ups, even with their two games in hand over the leaders.
Chelsea kept alive their remote hopes of overhauling United with a 1-0 victory over Wigan at Stamford Bridge, Florent Malouda scoring the only goal as the Blues remained third, 11 points adrift of United.
But it was another disappointing afternoon for Chelsea's 50 million pound striker Fernando Torres, whose goal drought continued after he appeared as a second-half substitute.
Tottenham -- thrashed 4-0 by Real Madrid in midweek -- maintained their push for a place in next season's Champions League with a 3-2 win over Stoke at White Hart Lane to remain in fifth spot.
Peter Crouch bounced back from the disappointment of his red card in the Bernabeu to score twice, with Luka Modric grabbing Spurs' other goal.
Stoke's goals came Matthew Etherington and Kenwyne Jones.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp said he was pleased at the way his side responded to their drubbing by Madrid.
"We've had a setback at Real Madrid. But we've got to come back and go on a run in the league and try to get back in that top four," he said.
At the other end of the table, Wolves' battle against relegation suffered a setback as Everton romped to a 3-0 victory in the early kick-off at Molineux.
First-half goals from Jermaine Beckford, Phil Neville and Diniya Bilyaletdinov secured all three points for Everton, who remain in seventh spot after extending their unbeaten run to six matches.
But the defeat left Mick McCarthy's Wolves rooted in the relegation mire, with the midlands club second from bottom with only six games remaining.
Birmingham and Blackburn remain three points clear of the relegation zone after grinding out a 1-1 draw at Ewood Park.
Birmingham took the lead through a headed Lee Bowyer effort on 32 minutes only for Blackburn to level on half-time courtesy of David Hoilett.
West Ham missed the chance to pull themselves out of the drop zone after crashing to a 3-0 defeat at Bolton.
Bolton took the lead on 14 minutes with an exquisite strike from Daniel Sturridge, the on-loan Chelsea striker curling a shot from the edge of the area beyond the grasp of West Ham keeper Robert Green.
Lee Chung-Yong made it 2-0 for the Trotters on 20 minutes, heading in at the near post from Martin Petrov's cross before Sturridge grabbed his second.
West Bromwich Albion eased their relegation fears against Sunderland, twice coming from behind to snatch a 3-2 victory at the Stadium of Light as the Baggies revival under Roy Hodgson continued.
Sunderland took the lead courtesy of a Nicky Shorey own goal.
West Brom levelled it through Nigerian striker Peter Odemwingie but Sunderland grabbed the lead again on 31 minutes through Phil Bardsley.
The Baggies got back on level terms however after half-time with Congolese midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu rounding off a well-worked move to score.
Austrian international Paul Scharner then bagged the winner for West Brom on 72 minutes after another flowing move.
"It was a good performance and we deserved it for how hard we battled," Hodgson said. "It gives us some breathing space ahead of the bottom three."
Arsenal manager defends record ahead of Blackpool game
Arsene Wenger launched a stout defence of his Arsenal team's achievements and his managerial policy ahead of their Premier League game against Blackpool on Sunday.
Arsenal have come under criticism this week from the club's influential Supporters Trust following the 0-0 draw against Blackburn, which dimmed their hopes of overtaking Manchester United at the top of the Premier League.
But Wenger claims the dissent is premature, as there is still a chance they could win the league.
And he pointed to the fact that even though they have gone almost six seasons without a trophy, the players they have at their disposal and the sound financial footing should count as success.
"We give our maximum and you have to accept people's opinion," Wenger said.
"Let's hope that in the whole history we will never be more disappointed than that and that, in the next 20 years, they will be exactly as disappointed as they are at the moment.
"If the situation remains like that, it is not too dramatic. People's opinion is people's opinion and we have to accept that in our game.
"As long as you are second in the league, I am ready to sign for the next 20 years and stand up for that.
"You are judged only on your last game. We live in a society where everybody has an opinion and very few people do something.
"We have to act and we want to be judged on our actions. For the rest, our society lives at the moment only on opinion.
"I have grown up by judging people on what they do, not what they say. We want to be judged on Sunday on what we do, that means a good performance."
Two months ago Arsenal were chasing four trophies, but lost the League Cup final to Birmingham, the FA Cup quarter final to Manchester United and the Champions League round of 16 tie to Barcelona.
But Wenger insisted he would still look upon this season as a success, even if they fail to win the Premier League.
"We want to fight until the last game of the season," Wenger said. "The fight of the team is to come out after every game and know we have given as much as we can.
"If there is a team that is better than us we have to accept it. I believe we do not have to be ashamed at the moment of what we have done.
"Rather, I have to be proud because if I took statements from all the people here at the start of the season we were not even in the top five. Now it is a scandal we are second.
"It is time people understand what our job is about. It is important we realise this team is absolutely amazing for what they do at their age. One day people will understand that, but at the moment, I am not sure many people do.
"Now it is a crucial moment where we have to trust these players and not listen to some opinions of people who have not worked half a day in football."
Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas is fit, but Wenger will be without Alex Song, who has a knee injury. Theo Walcott and Bacary Sagna face fitness tests.
Blackpool manager Ian Holloway, meanwhile, has moved to quell the anticipation for their game against bottom club Wigan on Saturday week.
"I've already heard people going on about Wigan -- it is being made out to be the game that could decide whether we stay up or not. But that’s nonsense as it will decide nothing.
"We can lose our next five and win our last two and still stay up because I believe 39 points will be enough to survive. Our season won't depend on what happens against Wigan."
Arsenal have come under criticism this week from the club's influential Supporters Trust following the 0-0 draw against Blackburn, which dimmed their hopes of overtaking Manchester United at the top of the Premier League.
But Wenger claims the dissent is premature, as there is still a chance they could win the league.
And he pointed to the fact that even though they have gone almost six seasons without a trophy, the players they have at their disposal and the sound financial footing should count as success.
"We give our maximum and you have to accept people's opinion," Wenger said.
"Let's hope that in the whole history we will never be more disappointed than that and that, in the next 20 years, they will be exactly as disappointed as they are at the moment.
"If the situation remains like that, it is not too dramatic. People's opinion is people's opinion and we have to accept that in our game.
"As long as you are second in the league, I am ready to sign for the next 20 years and stand up for that.
"You are judged only on your last game. We live in a society where everybody has an opinion and very few people do something.
"We have to act and we want to be judged on our actions. For the rest, our society lives at the moment only on opinion.
"I have grown up by judging people on what they do, not what they say. We want to be judged on Sunday on what we do, that means a good performance."
Two months ago Arsenal were chasing four trophies, but lost the League Cup final to Birmingham, the FA Cup quarter final to Manchester United and the Champions League round of 16 tie to Barcelona.
But Wenger insisted he would still look upon this season as a success, even if they fail to win the Premier League.
"We want to fight until the last game of the season," Wenger said. "The fight of the team is to come out after every game and know we have given as much as we can.
"If there is a team that is better than us we have to accept it. I believe we do not have to be ashamed at the moment of what we have done.
"Rather, I have to be proud because if I took statements from all the people here at the start of the season we were not even in the top five. Now it is a scandal we are second.
"It is time people understand what our job is about. It is important we realise this team is absolutely amazing for what they do at their age. One day people will understand that, but at the moment, I am not sure many people do.
"Now it is a crucial moment where we have to trust these players and not listen to some opinions of people who have not worked half a day in football."
Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas is fit, but Wenger will be without Alex Song, who has a knee injury. Theo Walcott and Bacary Sagna face fitness tests.
Blackpool manager Ian Holloway, meanwhile, has moved to quell the anticipation for their game against bottom club Wigan on Saturday week.
"I've already heard people going on about Wigan -- it is being made out to be the game that could decide whether we stay up or not. But that’s nonsense as it will decide nothing.
"We can lose our next five and win our last two and still stay up because I believe 39 points will be enough to survive. Our season won't depend on what happens against Wigan."
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Tottenham's Harry Redknapp: We will attack Real Madrid
Tottenham's Harry Redknapp: We will attack Real Madrid
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp claims he isn't scared of Spanish giants Real Madrid ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash, but wants to keep the 'dream' run going
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has vowed to send his team out to attack Real Madrid in their Champions League clash on Tuesday.
With Spurs boosted by the return of Gareth Bale, Redknapp is hopeful his team will perform on the big stage against Jose Mourinho’s side and give their travelling fans something to cheer.
“We’re not just turning up and we’re not going to come here and defend – because we don’t have defensive players,” he told reporters.
“We know that if we have a bad day it could be a nightmare so we’ve got to start well and make sure that we don’t give an early goal away and put ourselves under severe pressure.
“Real Madrid are one of the great clubs and great to be bringing the team here but if you don’t play well it’s not a good night.”
Madrid also have a star back in their squad in the shape of Cristiano Ronaldo, but Redknapp stressed he wasn’t scared of their opponents and was confident in the attacking quality he has at his disposal.
“We have an attacking team,” he continued.
“When you have Modric, Bale, Van der Vaart and Lennon, attacking players, it’s how you have to play.
“I can’t say I’m scared of them. We have to give them more problems than they give us. That’s the way we will approach the game.”
The Spurs manager admitted his side's progress to the quarter-finals - at the first time of asking - was a "dream" but didn't think there was too much pressure on his team to progress.
“The only pressure on us is that we play well,” he said.
“Nobody expected us to be here at the start of the competition but we came through the qualifying game, the toughest group and then a knock-out game with AC Milan.
“We want to keep progressing. The dream is still there for us all and we want to make that dream come true. There is still a chance and we have to make sure we take it.”
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp claims he isn't scared of Spanish giants Real Madrid ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash, but wants to keep the 'dream' run going
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has vowed to send his team out to attack Real Madrid in their Champions League clash on Tuesday.
With Spurs boosted by the return of Gareth Bale, Redknapp is hopeful his team will perform on the big stage against Jose Mourinho’s side and give their travelling fans something to cheer.
“We’re not just turning up and we’re not going to come here and defend – because we don’t have defensive players,” he told reporters.
“We know that if we have a bad day it could be a nightmare so we’ve got to start well and make sure that we don’t give an early goal away and put ourselves under severe pressure.
“Real Madrid are one of the great clubs and great to be bringing the team here but if you don’t play well it’s not a good night.”
Madrid also have a star back in their squad in the shape of Cristiano Ronaldo, but Redknapp stressed he wasn’t scared of their opponents and was confident in the attacking quality he has at his disposal.
“We have an attacking team,” he continued.
“When you have Modric, Bale, Van der Vaart and Lennon, attacking players, it’s how you have to play.
“I can’t say I’m scared of them. We have to give them more problems than they give us. That’s the way we will approach the game.”
The Spurs manager admitted his side's progress to the quarter-finals - at the first time of asking - was a "dream" but didn't think there was too much pressure on his team to progress.
“The only pressure on us is that we play well,” he said.
“Nobody expected us to be here at the start of the competition but we came through the qualifying game, the toughest group and then a knock-out game with AC Milan.
“We want to keep progressing. The dream is still there for us all and we want to make that dream come true. There is still a chance and we have to make sure we take it.”
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger: Tottenham can beat Real Madrid in Champions League
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger: Tottenham can beat Real Madrid in Champions League
Frenchman believes it is a tie that can go either way, and says Spurs have the advantage as they play the second leg at White Hart Lane
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes rivals Tottenham have a "50-50" chance of beating Real Madrid.
The two sides meet on Tuesday at the Bernabeu for the first leg of their Champions League double-header.
And Bernabeu boss Jose Mourinho had previously written off Spurs' chances of making the semi-finals of the competition, but the Frenchman believes otherwise.
"It is very open," Wenger said, according to The Guardian.
"Who cannot be beaten? If everything went all right, Barcelona would be out today ... if it had stayed 11 v 11, I am convinced of that.
"So why can't Spurs beat Madrid? Madrid has a disadvantage to play the first game at home and Spurs look to be strong at home. It is a real 50-50 tie."
Frenchman believes it is a tie that can go either way, and says Spurs have the advantage as they play the second leg at White Hart Lane
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes rivals Tottenham have a "50-50" chance of beating Real Madrid.
The two sides meet on Tuesday at the Bernabeu for the first leg of their Champions League double-header.
And Bernabeu boss Jose Mourinho had previously written off Spurs' chances of making the semi-finals of the competition, but the Frenchman believes otherwise.
"It is very open," Wenger said, according to The Guardian.
"Who cannot be beaten? If everything went all right, Barcelona would be out today ... if it had stayed 11 v 11, I am convinced of that.
"So why can't Spurs beat Madrid? Madrid has a disadvantage to play the first game at home and Spurs look to be strong at home. It is a real 50-50 tie."
Real Madrid's Emmanuel Adebayor: Arsenal fans still love me
Real Madrid's Emmanuel Adebayor: Arsenal fans still love me
Togolese forward feels his former club's supporters still have a soft spot for him, despite his infamous celebration after scoring against
Real Madrid's Emmanuel Adebayor believes Arsenal fans are still appreciative of him, despite the relationship having appeared to have soured in recent times.
The striker made a move to Manchester City in 2009, and infamously ran the length of the pitch to taunt Gunners supporters after scoring against his former club.
But despite the incident, the Togolese forward believes that the north London club's supporters still remember him fondly.
"Today the difference between leaving Arsenal and going to Manchester is that at Arsenal the fans loved me, I think even today they love me," Adebayor told The Sun.
"When I come to Madrid I feel the same atmosphere, I feel the fans love me here as well."
Adebayor also took a swipe at City boss Roberto Mancini, insisting that his time at Eastlands became more difficult after the Italian's appointment.
The 27-year-old made a loan move to the Bernabeu in January, and has maintained that he intends to do whatever he can to seal a permanent move to ply his trade in the Spanish capital again next season.
"When I first joined Manchester City, I was very happy," he said.
"At the beginning everything started very well. I was pleased, I was playing and I was scoring goals.
"Suddenly we had a game against Arsenal and you all know what happened. From then it went downhill for me.
"It was a difficult moment for me, we changed the bosses. Mark Hughes left, Roberto Mancini came along and it was even more difficult."
Togolese forward feels his former club's supporters still have a soft spot for him, despite his infamous celebration after scoring against
Real Madrid's Emmanuel Adebayor believes Arsenal fans are still appreciative of him, despite the relationship having appeared to have soured in recent times.
The striker made a move to Manchester City in 2009, and infamously ran the length of the pitch to taunt Gunners supporters after scoring against his former club.
But despite the incident, the Togolese forward believes that the north London club's supporters still remember him fondly.
"Today the difference between leaving Arsenal and going to Manchester is that at Arsenal the fans loved me, I think even today they love me," Adebayor told The Sun.
"When I come to Madrid I feel the same atmosphere, I feel the fans love me here as well."
Adebayor also took a swipe at City boss Roberto Mancini, insisting that his time at Eastlands became more difficult after the Italian's appointment.
The 27-year-old made a loan move to the Bernabeu in January, and has maintained that he intends to do whatever he can to seal a permanent move to ply his trade in the Spanish capital again next season.
"When I first joined Manchester City, I was very happy," he said.
"At the beginning everything started very well. I was pleased, I was playing and I was scoring goals.
"Suddenly we had a game against Arsenal and you all know what happened. From then it went downhill for me.
"It was a difficult moment for me, we changed the bosses. Mark Hughes left, Roberto Mancini came along and it was even more difficult."
Arsenal's Arsene Wenger unhappy with Premier League run-in fixture schedule
Arsenal's Arsene Wenger unhappy with Premier League run-in fixture schedule
Frenchman annoyed that his side will continue to play after their title rivals for the remainder of the season but insists it does not excuse recent disappointing results
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has expressed his unhappiness with his side's end-of-season fixture list but revealed his players were simply not "good enough" in the goalless draw with Blackburn at the weekend.
Wenger's team had seen United win before kicking off at the Emirates and will again play after Sir Alex Ferguson's side next weekend, with the leaders meeting Fulham on Saturday and Arsenal playing at Blackpool a day later.
The north London side will not play again on a Saturday this season, something that Wenger could hide his displeasure about.
"There are a lot of things going on which I don't want to talk about," he said.
"I have been here for 15 years, I know how things work, I want to be completely neutral, like I have to be.
"I am not involved in any decision. I do not do the schedule. I look when do we play? It is on Sunday until the end of the season."
Despite the Arsenal manager's unhappiness, he has conceded that scheduling was no excuse for his side's limp display against Blackburn on Saturday, and insists his players must improve.
"I do not want to speak about anything else like we look for an excuse about our performance," added Wenger.
"We have not been good enough, which is the main information of the Blackburn game, and we have to worry about being better in our next game.
"I have no influence on the fixtures, the referees, not on anything else here.
"Now we want to focus on our next game and show we are good enough."
Frenchman annoyed that his side will continue to play after their title rivals for the remainder of the season but insists it does not excuse recent disappointing results
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has expressed his unhappiness with his side's end-of-season fixture list but revealed his players were simply not "good enough" in the goalless draw with Blackburn at the weekend.
Wenger's team had seen United win before kicking off at the Emirates and will again play after Sir Alex Ferguson's side next weekend, with the leaders meeting Fulham on Saturday and Arsenal playing at Blackpool a day later.
The north London side will not play again on a Saturday this season, something that Wenger could hide his displeasure about.
"There are a lot of things going on which I don't want to talk about," he said.
"I have been here for 15 years, I know how things work, I want to be completely neutral, like I have to be.
"I am not involved in any decision. I do not do the schedule. I look when do we play? It is on Sunday until the end of the season."
Despite the Arsenal manager's unhappiness, he has conceded that scheduling was no excuse for his side's limp display against Blackburn on Saturday, and insists his players must improve.
"I do not want to speak about anything else like we look for an excuse about our performance," added Wenger.
"We have not been good enough, which is the main information of the Blackburn game, and we have to worry about being better in our next game.
"I have no influence on the fixtures, the referees, not on anything else here.
"Now we want to focus on our next game and show we are good enough."
Carlo Ancelotti wants to extend stay at Chelsea
Carlo Ancelotti wants to extend stay at Chelsea
Blues boss believes he does not need to win a trophy to keep his job at Stamford Bridge, but still insists that his players can win the Champions League
Carlo Ancelotti says he would like to sign a new contract at Chelsea.
The Blues boss left Milan to take over at Stamford Bridge in 2009, succeeding Guus Hiddink, and the Italian guided the club to a Premier League and FA Cup double.
But this season has seen the club undergo a dip in fortunes, as they have shown patchy form to fall to fourth place after leading the league earlier in the campaign.
The 51-year-old's contract expires at the end of next season, and he is hoping to sign a new deal to prolong his stay at the west London club. And the manager also feels that he does not have to win a trophy to make a case to the club officials.
"I want to stay at Chelsea," Ancelotti told the Daily Express.
"I would like to extend my contract because I love these players and this club.
"Obviously it is just not my decision, but I don't think they require me to win a trophy to retain my position."
Chelsea's only realistic hope of winning a trophy remains the Champions League, in which they take on Manchester United in the first leg of the quarter-finals at Stamford Bridge.
And Ancelotti believes that despite not needing any silverware to protect his job, his players can do owner Roman Abramovich proud by winning the competition.
"The Champions League is a dream for this club but it cannot be an obsession," he added.
"It is a motivation. Chelsea deserve to win it. They lost the final on penalties, lost a semi-final in the last minute, they went out with a goal that was no goal at Liverpool.
"I have told my players that we have 450 minutes of football now to win the Champions League. I believe we can do that."
Blues boss believes he does not need to win a trophy to keep his job at Stamford Bridge, but still insists that his players can win the Champions League
Carlo Ancelotti says he would like to sign a new contract at Chelsea.
The Blues boss left Milan to take over at Stamford Bridge in 2009, succeeding Guus Hiddink, and the Italian guided the club to a Premier League and FA Cup double.
But this season has seen the club undergo a dip in fortunes, as they have shown patchy form to fall to fourth place after leading the league earlier in the campaign.
The 51-year-old's contract expires at the end of next season, and he is hoping to sign a new deal to prolong his stay at the west London club. And the manager also feels that he does not have to win a trophy to make a case to the club officials.
"I want to stay at Chelsea," Ancelotti told the Daily Express.
"I would like to extend my contract because I love these players and this club.
"Obviously it is just not my decision, but I don't think they require me to win a trophy to retain my position."
Chelsea's only realistic hope of winning a trophy remains the Champions League, in which they take on Manchester United in the first leg of the quarter-finals at Stamford Bridge.
And Ancelotti believes that despite not needing any silverware to protect his job, his players can do owner Roman Abramovich proud by winning the competition.
"The Champions League is a dream for this club but it cannot be an obsession," he added.
"It is a motivation. Chelsea deserve to win it. They lost the final on penalties, lost a semi-final in the last minute, they went out with a goal that was no goal at Liverpool.
"I have told my players that we have 450 minutes of football now to win the Champions League. I believe we can do that."
Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic: We still respect Chelsea's Fernando Torres despite lack of goals
Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic: We still respect Chelsea's Fernando Torres despite lack of goals
Serbian calls on his team to tighten up at the back and urges United's forward to find the game's first goal if they are to progress to Champions League semi-final
Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has refused to write off misfiring nemesis Fernando Torres ahead of their Champions League encounter with Chelsea on Wednesday.
The Spaniard, and his fellow strikers, have found it hard to find the back of the net since January but Vidic has spoken of the respect he has for the Blues front men.
"We have respect, obviously, for their attacking players," said the defender.
"It doesn't matter if they didn't score a goal. They will try to score and they will give their best.
"This is two games and, at the end of the day, it's most important who will go through and not who will score the goals."
United’s defence was given a stern test by West Ham on Saturday and Vidic admitted that if there are to beat the Blues they will need to tighten things up at the back, but the second half comeback to win the game 4-2 will give them a huge boost going into Wednesday’s game.
"The defending part, we need to improve a bit more and we'll be all right," he admitted.
"Of course, it's much better when you win the game and go to the next Champions League game.
“But I don't think our concentration [for Chelsea] will be different.”
And despite the recent history on Chelsea’s side the Serbian defender feels this game will be totally different to the recent league encounters.
"In the last few games, they had good results,” he continued.
"But this is the Champions League and we have to score a goal - this is the name of the game for us.
"We're not going to relax, we know we're playing against a good side, especially at home.
"They're an experienced team, they have experienced players."
Serbian calls on his team to tighten up at the back and urges United's forward to find the game's first goal if they are to progress to Champions League semi-final
Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has refused to write off misfiring nemesis Fernando Torres ahead of their Champions League encounter with Chelsea on Wednesday.
The Spaniard, and his fellow strikers, have found it hard to find the back of the net since January but Vidic has spoken of the respect he has for the Blues front men.
"We have respect, obviously, for their attacking players," said the defender.
"It doesn't matter if they didn't score a goal. They will try to score and they will give their best.
"This is two games and, at the end of the day, it's most important who will go through and not who will score the goals."
United’s defence was given a stern test by West Ham on Saturday and Vidic admitted that if there are to beat the Blues they will need to tighten things up at the back, but the second half comeback to win the game 4-2 will give them a huge boost going into Wednesday’s game.
"The defending part, we need to improve a bit more and we'll be all right," he admitted.
"Of course, it's much better when you win the game and go to the next Champions League game.
“But I don't think our concentration [for Chelsea] will be different.”
And despite the recent history on Chelsea’s side the Serbian defender feels this game will be totally different to the recent league encounters.
"In the last few games, they had good results,” he continued.
"But this is the Champions League and we have to score a goal - this is the name of the game for us.
"We're not going to relax, we know we're playing against a good side, especially at home.
"They're an experienced team, they have experienced players."
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