***The Official Arsenal Gunners" Thread***

[Perceptor]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

Our midfield outside of Nasri were atrocious tonight. Especially Diaby and Song. Diaby's touch let him down on numerous occasions and Song was caught in possession way too often.

The back 4 were pretty decent considering that they were pretty much always defending because of our midfield. Alumina of course is the only reason this tie is even in question. He played out of his mind today.

I agree although Nasri was non-existent for the 1st part of the game too. Song was brutal and honestly, I don't rate Diaby at all and think he needs to leave.

I have to say that considering how badly they were outplayed for large parts of that game, 1-0 is not the worst thing. I just hope they wake up and play better during the return leg

[Spectre]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

I must say Kieran Gibbs was pure class tonight. 19 years old, playing in a Champion's League semi final at Old Trafford and having to mark Cristiano Ronaldo. Thought he did a great job.

Agreed- he still needs to get a little stronger (which will happen with time as he matures) but I was thoroughly impressed.

There was a lot I liked about the game and a lot I didn't like- all in all, 1-0 isn't that bad at Old Trafford.

Almunia was STELLAR, best game I've seen him play. Let's make some noise back at the Emirates, it should be an awesome match.

[ZM Punk]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

I agree although Nasri was non-existent for the 1st part of the game too. Song was brutal and honestly, I don't rate Diaby at all and think he needs to leave.

I have to say that considering how badly they were outplayed for large parts of that game, 1-0 is not the worst thing. I just hope they wake up and play better during the return leg

Nasri might have seemed non existent but I thought his work rate was superb the entire game. He was pretty much the only guy in the midfield that seemed willing to try to take the ball of a Man U player. He was also quite good while in possession as well, by far the best on the team last night.

[Krebstar]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

My friend and I were so happy at the end of the game Wednesday, if someone had just come into the room, they would've thought Arsenal won by three. We were both relived to escape 1-0. After the first half, I was willing to accept 1-0 as a victory.

[electrickeeper]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

Oh dear, David James...

[Acid]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

I love watching the kids play.

Aaron Ramsey is going to be legit.

[Acid]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

Class penalty from Bendtner. He's really playing well today, I'm glad he took the PK, it's a good show of confidence from Wenger.

Perhaps, I've been too hard on Nicklas?

[Perceptor]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

Bendtner plays much better when he keeps his mouth shut. He's a good player, but when his head gets too big, he turns into an arse. Humble pie will help him become the player he can be.

Vela had a class goal though. I hope he gets more playing time next season because he's lethal.

[Perceptor]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

The game was great today for the kids. Ramsey is looking good and was poised. I'm glad Merida got to play and I really want him to do well, because he does have great technique. David James was shocking......Calamity rears its ugly head again.

[~LiverpoolRed~]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

Just saw that RVP is passed fit for you guys.

[Qb]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

Sounds like Arsenal will line up in a 4-4-2 for the 2nd leg. I really hope this comes to pass, as they need to score at least two to advance (barring PKs of course) and Cesc as a SS isn't going to cut it. He needs to be deeper in the midfield pulling the strings...

[Perceptor]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

Yeah I think they will need to push tomorrow and it will be a good game. Having RVP and Adebayor fit will be a massive boost as long as our back four can hold United. I am keeping my fingers crossed.

[Acid]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal "Gunners" Thread***

<-------Arsenal's key to victory for tomorrow.

I'm so anxious for tomorrow.

[~LiverpoolRed~]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal &quot;Gunners&quot; Thread***

Just read an interesting article on Sky where Samir Nasri has hinted that he could see himself playing defensive MF in the coming seasons for Arsenal. It insists that Wenger and French coach Domenech see him in that role long term. What are your guys thoughts on that? Not really sure what to think as he plays on the wing for you and played in the hole for Marseille. Would be a big adjustment for any player I would think.

[Qb]

Re: ***The Official Arsenal &quot;Gunners&quot; Thread***

I don't think he's right for the role, certainly not as a partner for Cesc. Now, I could see him in Cesc's role playing next to a true DM. He's not best used as a winger either, as he lacks real pace despite his good on-ball skills and shiftiness. He's probably the guy who should be in the hole in a 4-5-1/4-4-1-1/whatever x-x-x we're calling it these days as he was in Marseille...