predictions – Page 3 – Bergkampesque

What a Difference a Year Makes: 5 Reasons for Optimism

September 10, 2013TotalArsenal

One year ago, today: Arsenal had just come out of another transfer window where we lost our captain and arguably our second best player, these players obviously being van Judas and Song respectively. The player bought to replace the previous Premier League’s top goal scorer had not yet scored a goal in Arsenal colors, and we had also failed to replace our primary defensive midfielder.

The season looked grim, but there were positives in that Arsene had seemingly finally ended his policy of buying young players; Arsenal had signed three major international players; and we seemingly had a good squad.

Over the course of the season there were many ups and downs. From being eliminated from two domestic cups by lower league teams, to beating the eventual champions of Europe away. In the end, the mighty Arsenal went on a large run of games unbeaten to top the Spuds and clinch Champions League football once more.

Going into the summer, it seemed that Arsenal just needed a few additions in key areas. We heard stories of a £70 million transfer budget and this was essentially confirmed when, early in the summer, Ivan Gazidas came out and said that Arsenal FC was entering an era in which they could compete with top teams, both in monetary and footballing terms.

The fans were excited to see what kind of super quality signings our team would make over the summer: the names were mouthwatering. Lars Bender, Karim Benzema, Angel Di Maria, Adil Rami, Julio Cesar, and more were linked, but didn’t move anywhere in the end. Then gooners were forced to watch the likes of Jovetic, Higuain, Luis Gustavo be “having a medical” or be “about to sign for Arsenal”, only to go elsewhere.

Meanwhile, the only signing Arsenal had made thus far in the window was 20 year old Yaya Sanogo from Ligue 2. It seemed that fans were divided. You were either very optimistic or very pessimistic, with many optimists diffusing to the pessimistic side slowly over the course of the summer. I am proud to say I was an optimist. Of course, at times I worried, but I always had faith that Wenger would deliver. He had to have a plan, the small group of optimists were sure of it. So sure to the point, where I even bet my Gunner loving mom $100 that Arsenal would sign a super quality player before the window closed (which will now be spent on an Ozil jersey).

Deadline day came with our only two signings being free transfers. However, in the end we brought in a goalie and a world class player, Mesut Ozil. I won’t do an in depth analysis of our summer because that has been done a few times already on this site, but I felt a quick recap of this past year was in order. Now let’s check in on the five main reasons we should be optimistic about this season.

1. We have a complete squad!

This current Arsenal squad can field two full line ups when everyone is fit.

Line-up 1:

Line-up 2:

And even with these two line ups we’re still leaving out the likes of Fabianski, Frimpong, Diaby, Park, Gnabry, Ryo, and Bendtner who are all first team players, as well as young players who could make the step up to the first team, at some point during the season. All of these players will allow for competition for places, cover for injuries, and challenges for all trophies available to us. Arsenal has a fairly deep squad and that is something that most people will agree on, especially since we are still rumored to have £40 million to spend in January.

2. Most of the team had a full pre-season!

For the first time in a while players like Jack and Rosicky had full pre-seasons and are fit and ready to go for the new season. This has allowed the squad to gel while being together in foreign places and this has helped contribute to reason number three. Overall, pre-season was very positive for us with Giroud finding scoring form and our defenders gaining better understanding with each other. Pre-season also contributes to point number five by allowing our youngsters to show their stuff. Expect to see a better understanding between the boys this season as we have kept our core squad together with a full pre-season to learn from each other and gel.

3. The team has good spirit!

The squad this year seems to have a togetherness that not many teams have. This can partially be put down to the few new additions and no major first team departures allowing our current squad to gel, while quickly accepting our new signings. The end of the North London Derby highlighted this perfectly. For the last five minutes of the game Arsenal buckled down and defended as a team and kept Arsenal’s lead. As the final whistle blew, not only did the fans and players on the field go crazy, the bench went crazy too. The substitutes, used and unused were on the field genuinely thrilled with the victory. This squad wants to win, but not only that, they want to win together. There are no selfish players in this squad.

This is a team of experienced and young players, but all are mature and ready to win trophies. This is a squad that is growing around a young English core with small pockets of Spaniards, Frenchmen, and now Germans forming. However, the most important thing is that they are growing around a very ingrained philosophy that has been around for years and steady management and coaching that continues to work with our players and help them grow. It’s important that this squad doesn’t undergo too many changes in players or coaches over the next few years as this squad grows together and Wenger understands this. Let’s hope this spirit grows within the squad and helps us win trophies sooner rather than later.

4. The team is off to a good start!

Aside from an unlucky opening day loss (that no one wants to relive), Arsenal are off to a fantastic start. They have easily gotten through the Champions League qualifiers and have secured victory over Fulham and a key victory over the Spuds. The previous three factors have all attributed to this one and not much more can be said other than Arsenal have only lost one game in the past six months. Now let’s keep up that streak. COYG!

5. The future is still bright!

And of course, we save one of the most important (and one of my personal favorites) for last. Many of you know of my love for Arsenal’s young players, especially young Zelalem. I believe that this will be the breakthrough season for many of Arsenal’s youngsters. Gnabry and Zelalem have all been seen on the bench on many occasions already this season, and it’s only a matter of time before Ryo joins them and they start getting chances in games. I think all three will feature heavily in the domestic cups, with sporadic substitute appearances to prove themselves in the Premier League, and maybe even late substitutions in the Champions League. I also expect Akpom to get a few chances in the Capital One Cup, as well as Bellerin and maybe even Eisfeld or Olsson. Overall, expect some shining cameos from all of our youngsters especially Gnabry, Ryo, and Zelalem.

These five points are just a few reasons to be excited about this season and seasons to come. Now that the transfer window has closed it’s time to really get behind the boys and support the team with everything we have. COYG!

Thanks for reading! 😀

Written by: Dylan.

Determination, hunger, team spirit, new signings: Arsenal can win the league!

September 9, 2013September 9, 2013TotalArsenal

Do Arsenal have a shot at the title?

I’ve actually intentionally waited for the euphoria and excitement (in me) that came with the deadline day signing of Mesut Ozil to die down, before I wrote this post. Simply, because I want this post to be as objective and as factual as can be.

So the question in everyone’s mind is: will we be able to push for a trophy this season with the signings we’ve made?

Is this the year to win some silverware again?

That is an opportune question: one that I will address by analyzing our signings and the competition. I will start by obviously putting aside Yaya Sanogo, because he obviously wasn’t brought in for the first team, which leaves us with Viviano, Flamini and the big one, Mesut Ozil.

It goes without saying that Ozil is the signing everyone wanted, and quite frankly, we landed gold. In the past 2 seasons, I have felt that even with Cazorla in the side we haven’t been creating enough clear cut chances. Our game has been characterized by a slow build up consisting of a lot of tentative passing, which more often than not leads no where, except when Wilshere is in form. With Ozil, however, that is all going to change and I expect Giroud and Theo to be the main beneficiaries of this.

Then there’s our second master signing in the Flame. Admittedly, I wasn’t too excited when we brought him in, but within a minute of his introduction against Spurs he won me over. It is worth noting that his performance came off the back of a long time without game time, so he can only get better. In my opinion, he solves our DM issues and then some more, considering he can play as a full back too. Then there’s Viviano, Italy’s number two goal keeper. He is actually a good GK who will not just serve as Szczesny’s deputy but will fight him for the number 1 spot, which I think is what the pole needs in order to fully unlock his potential.

We are not without our weaknesses because I feel we are still in dire need of a striker, a fourth CB and a winger, with the latter being the least important to really solidify our team.

In terms of our competition, there have been quite a few developments.

First of all, I expect Liverpool to compete for 4th place but not much more. They’ve made good signings and a good start, but their signings are youngsters who will need a lot of time to adapt.

Then there’s city who’ve made some class signings but have an uncharacteristically poor defence. I watched them get repeatedly carved open by Hull last week, to my utter disbelief. Don’t get me wrong they are still title contenders, but their defence might be their downfall.

Then there is Mourinho and Chelsea: the title favourites in my view. They have a mean defence but if Eto’o doesn’t perform, and Torres doesn’t step up, they might struggle because the title isn’t won on perpetual 0-0 results. That said, you can’t underestimate Mourinho: anyone can win the league without a functioning strike force, he can.

Then we have Spurs, the biggest spenders. They have assembled a very good squad but it remains to be seen how long it will take them to gel. That is always the danger you face when buying more than 4 players at a go. What I can tell you for sure is they are definitely stronger than they were last season, and I expect them to mount more of a challenge this time round, eventually becoming title challengers.

Finally, there is Man Utd. They lost their godfather in Sir Alex and are currently a team in transition. Moyes may not have found his rhythm yet, but let’s not forget that this is the exact team that won the league by a landslide. It’s difficult to tell where they stand, at least for now.

With all that in mind, I believe that Arsenal are genuine title challengers. It may be by just a whisker considering injuries – especially up front could ruin us – but as it stands, if we can keep Giroud and Theo fit until January and take advantage of our first ten fixtures, we can find ourselves in a very favourable position come February.

Based on the determination, hunger and team spirit we currently possess, anyone who doesn’t rate us with the best is asking for trouble. If you don’t believe me, ask the Spuds.

Written by: Marcus.

Arsenal to win the treble, Manchester United to finish fifth, Benteke season top scorer, Southampton to win FA cup? Make your predictions here!

September 7, 2013September 7, 2013TotalArsenal

Make your Mystic Meg predictions here! :) — Make your Mystic Meg predictions here! 🙂

As it is the inter-dull and we have to get ourselves through another weekend without meaningful footie, I thought it would be fun to ask you to make predictions for the new season. Non-Arsenal supporters are invited to join in with their predictions.

Here are your thirteen questions for this season (all questions refer to the end of the season):

What will be the PL top six?
Which clubs will get relegated in the PL?
Which clubs will win the Spanish, Italian, German, Dutch leagues?
Who will be in the top-three of PL goal scorers?
Who will be in the top-three of PL assists this season?
Which clubs will reach the FA Cup semi-finals and who will win it?
Which clubs will reach the Champions League semi-finals and who will win it?
Which three PL teams will concede least goals away from home?
Which three PL teams will concede least goals at home?
Which three PL teams will collect least yellow cards?
Which three PL teams will collect most red cards?
Which three PL managers will be sacked first this season?
Who will finish above the other: Arsenal or Spurs – Man United or ManCity – Liverpool or Everton – Swansea or Cardiff – Aston Villa or West Brom – Sunderland or Newcastle?

Three points for every correct sub-answer and five bonus points for correctly answer the whole question. Winner will be announced after the end of the season.

Either you just write the answers down in a comment or copy and paste the questions and then write answers after each question.

Written by: TotalArsenal.

Cesc, Jovetic coming or not, Koz, Sagna to go? The Joys of the Torture Window!

June 12, 2013July 31, 2013TotalArsenal

Cesc: one of the many will he /won't he this season! — Cesc: one of the many will he /won’t he this season!

To some extent I can understand why fellow Gooners can be so excited about the Transfer Window. It’s that Christmasesque excitement of anticipated presents: who will we get and how are they going to make us win silverware next season?

But as Gooners we should know better by now. Arsenal Transfer windows in recent years have been utter torture, with the exception perhaps of the ‘winter window’ when we somehow got Arshavin on the day after the last day. The year we lost Cesc and Nasri was dismal enough, but last season’s summer TW was another low point. It started so well with the well organised and timely arrivals of Pod and Giroud, and the late arrival of one of the best signings in recent years, Cazorla.

But then the traitor decided to burn his bridges on purpose so he could obey the little boy inside of him, and without much ado Songinho was sold to Barca’s chairman. Two inexperienced PL strikers in, the PL footballer and top scorer of the year out. One of the most versatile and promising defensive midfielders out, an attacking midfielder with no PL experience in.

Cazorla turned out to be an absolute gem, but with injuries to Diaby (no surprise there) and Wilshere (also not a big surprise given his recent health issues), we really missed Song this season, both defensively and in terms of producing assists from midfield. It is not hard to imagine how well we would have done if Van Judas had not deserted us, but enough said about the grey haired broody woman.

I loathe the Transfer Window. If it was up to me it would not last longer than five working days: get it done swiftly and we can all get on with our lives.

I tried to be philosophical about it, as in: it will be what it will be, and I cannot influence it, so best to forget about it all. But as a Blog Owner this is not going to be easy, as it is very hard not to get carried away with how Rooney, Cesc or Jovetic would be able to instantly transform our team. And it is just the same with the, equally popular among the fans, ‘angst articles’: the thought, for example, of the master of easy rides trying to entice our Wilshere or Koz away to Munich is very hard to suppress, once the eyes have glanced the NewsNow headline…. And losing our warrior RB, Mr Arsenal, to one of the new French Oilers, does also create sheer angst and anger.

How many times over the last few months have we read that Jovetic to Arsenal is a done deal? And what about Fellaini: Arsenal making an offer and the betting firms indicating they believe it is going to happen – after which………. Nothing happens.

And even if we sign a couple of quality players eventually, we could still see departures of first team players in the next few months. I know about the £70m to spend but old habits die hard at Arsenal, it seems.

What exactly is the fun of the transfer window?

I guess as a down to earth, Calvinist-DNA Dutchman, I am just too serious about it all. I can hear the likes of James Bond, Highbury Harmony, AFC, Gerry and HenryChan telling me to lighten up and join the seasonal fantasy football transfer merry-go-round….. The Wengabus is coming and everybody’s jumping….

Anyway, enough whinging – you must by now have noticed I am scraping the barrel for a post today! Let’s do some Transfer/Torture Window predictions. What do you think will happen this summer:

Who are we really going to buy?
Who will leave?
How much money will we spend (deduct incoming money from predicted departures)?
What will be the most we’ll spend on a single player this summer?
Will Arsene sign a new contract during the TW?

Written by: TotalArsenal. 😉

Rosicky, Ramsey and Gerv: invaluable ‘fringers’ – BFG’s mistake last chance for TV5 – Ideal TH-Che result?

April 9, 2013April 9, 2013TotalArsenal

Fringers Rosicky, Ramsey and Gerv prove to be invaluable

I was only able to watch the match highlights of our game against WBA, but have now read a few match reports as well. We have often debated on BK about the team lacking strength in depth but with key players missing or being ‘rested on the bench’, it is becoming clear our squad is stronger than many of us thought. No Diaby and no wilshere, but Ramsey and Rosicky have been filling their hiatuses more than adequately. No Podolski or Walcott, but Gervinho is both scoring and creating assists at an impressive rate at the moment; and Cazorla is proving to be super valuable – being able to play in various position with apparent ease and effectiveness.

Although our home win against Reading was to be expected, winning away against Bayern, Swansea and now West Brom with key players missing is not a mean feat at all. It is great to see our fringe players pulling their weight at the moment. Rosicky’s experience and never-say-die attitude is driving our team on, which must be a great relieve to the likes of Cazorla and Wilshere who just cannot do it in each and every game. From what I have read, Cazorla had a relatively quiet game, but Ramsey, Rosicky and Gervinho compensated for this with their drive and desire to win.

Ramsey missed a real sitter, but he just keeps going and does a lot of the dirty work for the team. And he also produced the assist for Rosicky’s second goal. Gervinho took the ball into the box on a number of occasions, and, at least at the moment, he has the composure and the skills to create real danger for us where we need to hurt our opponents most.

Gervinho, Rosicky and Ramsey are all not regarded as first-11 players this season, but they are proving to be invaluable for us at the moment, and long may it continue. Have they got enough, though, to make it into our first-11 team on a more permanent basis; and if not, will they be happy to stay at Arsenal for much longer?

Their performances underlined for me that we have plenty of strength in depth in the squad, and that we do not need a great number of new players this summer: a DM, another attacker, and an experienced GK as back up, and we are ready to rock next season (assuming that no key players will be sold this summer). Do fellow Gooners agree?

BFG’s mistake last chance for TV5?

I was disappointed in Per on Saturday: with leading the game 2-0 there was no need for him to take a big risk with a misjudged and clumsy challenge. A player of his experience should know the risk of making such a dangerous interception. Maybe he did not think he would get a red card, but the detrimental impact to our team of conceding a goal was a lot smaller than him being sent off with a straight red card and missing the next match; something he should have been aware of.

Our improved defensive performances in recent games are for a big part due to the leadership vacuum at the back having been filled through leaving (our captain) Vermaelen out and the BFG taking over control, instead. We all know that Mertesacker has some weaknesses, but he is good at reading the game and organising the back. I reckon, he will be missed in the next game, but at least it gives Vermaelen a chance to proof himself again.

As the Belgian is our captain, I reckon he will be responsible again for organising our defence and I am hoping he will come good again. Fingers crossed!

I am convinced that if Vermaelen’s performances in the remaining fixtures this season are not to the expected standard, he will become either a squad player or be sold in the summer. What do you reckon: will Vermaelen be able to fill the organisational void left behind as a result of the BFG’s suspension?

What would be the Ideal Spuds-Chavs result this weekend [please ignore reference to the game being played this weekend: it is a mistake]?

Let’s hope we will win our home game against Norwich. I don’t need to tell you that the single biggest risk we run regarding this game is the team underestimating our opponents. Norwich need the points and played really well at the Emirates last year, and with a nothing to lose attitude, they could cause an upset.

But let’s assume the boys are focussed and give their all and the three points will come our way; what would be the ideal result in the Spuds-Chavs game this weekend? This question is all about whether we think we can finish third or whether we believe fourth is the most realistic final position for us this season.

With only two points between us and the Chavs, I reckon we should aim for third, and therefore hope for, and this sounds truly horrible, so I will whisper it: a Spuds win. It would mean that we get ahead of the Chavs in the table and with our game in hand – compared to the Spuds – we should be able to get ahead of them as well. However, a Chavs win and Arsenal winning their games against Norwich and Everton, would create a healthy four points gap between us and the Spuddies…. This also sounds very attractive, as the Chavs could still be caught at a later stage…. What do you reckon, fellow Gooners?

Written by: TotalArsenal.

Ten predictions for the remainder of Arsenal’s season

March 7, 2013March 7, 2013TotalArsenal

Just like previous season, the current one is a real roller-coaster for us; and who knows how it all will end? Just as a bit of fun in this ‘non-inter lull’, I would like to invite BK readers to give us their predictions for the remainder of the season.

I am sure we will find out who the glass half-empty and half-full supporters are, and feel free to add any clarification to your answers where you would like to.

These are the predictions to make:

Will Arsenal make the the top-four by the end of the season?
What will Arsenal’s final position in the league be this season?
Who will become Arsenal’s PL top-scorer by the end of the season?
How many goals in total will Arsenal score in the PL this season (currently 53)?
How many goals in total will Arsenal concede in the PL this season (currently 32)?
Will we finish above the Spuds this season?
How many games will Arsenal win this season (currently 13)?
How many league goals in total will Podolski, Giroud, Theo and Cazorla score (currently: 39)?
Who will win the Champions League this season?
Non Arsenal question: Who will win the FA-cup this season?

Looking forward to reading your answers!

The winner will be announced by the end of the season, and will receive an Arsenal book.

Keep rocking fellow Gooners. 🙂

TotalArsenal.

A new defensive midfielder? Non Merci! Arsenal v Chelsea Pre-Match

January 19, 2013TotalArsenal

Intro:

It was once the toughest away fixture in the Premier league, with Chelsea holding the greatest sequence of unbeaten home matches: 86, from March 2004 – October 2008. But hey, Roman Abramovich’s millions can buy you almost anything these days…yes it can even help you win the Champions League title.

In the present, they do not hold that psychological advantage over their opposition, so we should travel across London on Sunday showing no fear. The only person who should be holding any sort of fear should be Rafa Benitez. In what is perhaps the most demanding managerial position in football today, the pressure is persistently mounting on him. It’s only a matter of time before he joins the long list of Chelsea casualties; we shall see who is next through the revolving door soon enough.

Last time around, we were beaten thanks to some set piece problems and a few important players missing. This time we have almost a full squad to choose from with Szcz, Sagna, and Wilshere available for the return fixture. Chelsea won’t know what hit them this time, because these three are perhaps our most important players in our starting line-up.

Let’s begin now shall we!

Missing in Action:

Arsenal: Rosicky (calf) remains on the sidelines (not sure he left to be honest), which is unfortunate because he could provide a much needed rest to either Santi or Jack. Arteta (calf) and Fabianski will also miss out.

Kozzer returns from his one-match suspension. Gerv misses this one due to Coupe d’Afrique des Nations duty.

Chelsea: Romeu is out with a knee injury. Everyone’s favourite defender Terry returns after a two month absence. He appeared as a sub midweek, so I would not be surprised if he comes back in to the starting line-up for this one.

Chelsea are also devoid of both Mikel and Moses because of ACoN.

Predicted Line-up:

I would not change the line-up from the one we saw midweek. As far as I’m concerned I think that is our best possible line-up. I like Coquelin over Arteta because he is faster and more tenacious, and his attacking link up work is also very underrated. Santi gives us the width that Ramsey doesn’t, but can also wander in field and create opportunities. Diaby is unplayable at times, and without Mikel he really has a chance to boss the midfield. Let’s give it a go again!!!

Expect to see Terry back at CB and Ivanovic to return at RB. Now Lampard has signed a pre-contract with LA Galaxy, it will be interesting to see if he keeps his starting position, or whether he relinquishes it to Ramires and Luiz. Chelsea will most likely use a 4-2-1-3 formation with Torres up top, Mata and Hazard on the wings, Oscar at AM, Ramires and Lampard central, and a back four of Tumbling Terry, Cahill, Ivanovic, and some traitorous swine known as Cole.

Previous Encounters:

Arsenal 1 – Chelsea 2

On September 29th Arsenal faced a Chelsea team that was sitting on top of the ladder and in red hot form. Diaby tested Cech from long range early on and subsequently injured himself in the process; an injury that looked rather innocuous at the time but kept him on the sidelines until last weekend. Chelsea responded with a goal thanks to a bit of skill by Torres from a set piece…however, it was the poor marking from Kozzer that allowed the expensive flop Torres to score. Gervinho levelled the score before half time with a rather impressive turn and shot (his only real involvement of the game it has to be said). Mata finished off the tie with a great free kick that took a slight deflection of Kozzer. Not Kozzer’s best game but I still maintain that he is our best defender when fully confident. Nevertheless, Chelsea got it done when it Mata’d…I’ll get my coat.

Arsenal 0 – Chelsea 0

Two great saves from Cech and some wasteful efforts from another traitorous swine meant Arsenal could not breakdown a robust Chelsea team.

Form Guide: Arsenal: WLDDW Chelsea: DWLWL

Despite dropping points against the Manchester Oilers a lot of positives could be drawn from our second half performance. Although we only beat Swansea 1-0 midweek we played all over them for the entire match and could quite easily have belted them all the way back to Wales. The signs are positive, we must continue to build on the momentum we have.

Chelsea haven’t had too much luck recently (they did beat Stoke away 0-4 which is not to be scoffed at) losing out to QPR, Swansea, and drawing against Southampton in their last three home fixtures. Let us hope the nightmare continues.

This week I’ve dipped into the Arsenal Archive and pulled out this video clip. It is a highlights package from our 2-0 win over Chelsea in the 2002 FA Cup final. Oh To, Oh To Be, Oh To Be A Gooner!!!

One to Watch:

Theo Walcott: He finally signed the thing! Hallelujah we can all breathe again. Now it’s time to get fully behind him and let’s see what he can produce under Arsene’s tutelage. His stats are undeniable, his speed is blistering, and his finishing is top notch. It’s time for him to put his money where his mouth is, and I have complete faith in him doing so!

Demba Ba…again! We had to deal with him not long ago at the Emirates and he managed to put two past us on that occasion. The man is a quality poacher and scores whenever given a sniff. If I was Torres I would be worried because Ba can deliver (as he showed midweek against Southampton) and is eyeing his starting position. It’s unlike Chelsea to do a shrewd bit of business, but I feel this time they’ve struck gold for a fraction of the cost.

Mata will also be one to keep our eye on; last time around he was afforded too much room, and we can’t let it happen again!

Key-Match up:

Francis Coquelin vs Juan Mata

Our young midfield enforcer against Chelsea’s most dangerous player and creator Juan Mata (8 assists, 7 goals). Now that Walcott has signed his contract. all that remains for most Arsenal supporters is the need for a midfield enforcer/beast/monster/barbarian/troglodyte/cannibal, in other words a snarling midfielder who can protect the back four and boss the midfield. Nigel De Jong is only 174cm and 72kgs, Gattuso is 177cm and 77kgs, Flamini is 178 cm and 67kgs, M’Vila is 182cm and 80kgs, Francis Coquelin is 182 cm and 75kgs and still developing. So you don’t have to be a brute to be a great defensive midfielder! Coquelin has his chance to usurp Arteta’s position (tough, given our winning % without Arteta is 14.28%) in the starting line-up (similar to how Flamini did to Gilberto) by putting together more strong performances like the one against Swansea. He and Diaby complemented one another brilliantly; what a partnership they could forge for both Arsenal and France!

Mata caused us all sorts of troubles at the Emirates (1 goal and an assist), so Coquelin must be watching him like a hawk the entire game. Not give him an inch, and he and the team must be careful not to commit any fouls around the box because he is deadly! Shackle Mata and we go a long way to winning this match.

Pre-Match Finger:

This week’s finger goes to the Bori! They are a secret coven of demons responsible for the possession of bad luck. Searching the Encyclopaedia of Demons was the only next logical step to curing Diaby of his injury curse. He is a magnificent player who always slips so seamlessly into the line-up. He has a powerful shot, amazing dribbling skills, fluid movement across the pitch, long legs that allow him to dispossess opposition players easily…he is our Paddy V version 2. The only problem is he cannot stay off the treatment table for too long. Arsene has been very patient but how much longer can it last? He is commanding a good salary and potentially holding back another player in the squad.

Now rumour has it that to get rid of this demon one must say the word ‘iron’ repeatedly…I’m suspect though. because Jack is made of iron and surely that’d be enough to exorcise the demon from Diaby! The only other solution is a special dance; now Sagna, BFG, and Podolski tried it in the pre-season…

But, it clearly wasn’t enough because it only worked on Diaby temporarily. At the next home game we need everyone at the Emirates to perform the same dance once Diaby comes on to the pitch! Let’s vanquish this demon so we can unleash our own in the centre of the pitch!

Pre-Match pat on the back:

This week’s pat on the back goes to Jack Wilshere. Not because he is a future Arsenal hall of famer (he will be!), not because he’s going to be one of the best in the world (he will be!), not because every Arsenal male fan has a man crush on him (they do!); it is because he’s everything we love in a player. Not because he scored the winner against Swansea (it was darn good though!), but because the kid has a wise head on his shoulders. He has come back strong from a serious injury and does the little things on the field that others don’t. Against Swansea, towards the end of the game, he made a simple gesture to his team mates to ‘think about what you are doing’. We had the lead and the game was drawing to a close and he was making sure we didn’t lose our heads once again. Keep the lid on it he’s still young you say…sorry, that lid blew off when he scored this pearler at the tender age of 16.

see 1.19 mins

‘Ask the opposition’ returns again, this week. It is designed to get some friendly banter from our opposition fans and get their insight for the match ahead. This week the answers were kindly provided by CD from http://www.chelseadaft.org, and Blue Champion from http://www.bluechampions.com or his twitter handle @bluechampion. Let’s see what they’ve written for us this week:

1) What happens with Torres now Ba is scoring for fun?

CD: Torres is still the clubs number one striker. He has been good at times this season but badly needed a rest. I expected a better reaction from him the other week against Swansea after watching Demba Ba score two on his debut at Southampton but he didn’t seem bothered for the first time and the fans turned on him including me.

BlueChampion: Torres goes to the bench. And in the summer (if not this month) leaves the club and saves about £9m per year in salaries. Earlier his results were poor and now his efforts are also poor. Barring a miracle, he’s a goner.

2) Who has been Chelsea’s best player so far this season? What is he capable of?

CD: Juan Mata once again is our best player with Eden Hazard a close second. Mata finds space and can hurt you. You have seen at the Emirates that he can take a set piece, he can score goals and create them. He is a perfect number 10.

BlueChampion: Juan Mata. He’s the magician that pulls the strings for Chelsea. All attacks go through him and he has such chemistry with all forward players that he is a threat all the time. What’s he capable of? Wait until Sunday.

3) What’s your take on the Frank Lampard situation?

CD: Frank Lampard deserves another contract in my book. He is still fit, still performing and scoring goals in the Premier League. People forget he missed half a season through injury two years ago and remains an important part of our squad. You need experience in the squad to bring out the best in people and if he leaves this summer, Chelsea would have made a mistake.

BlueChampion: He’s 35 this summer. I’m with the club. Happy for one-year extensions with pay cuts. We already have a crowded midfield with young talents – Ramires, Luiz, Romeu, Oscar, McEachran (on loan) and Kevin de Bruyne (on loan). Looking forward to his Bobby Tambling record. After that he should stay at club’s terms or go.

4) Benitez…how much longer will he last?

CD: I hope Benitez goes sooner rather than the summer but I can’t see it happening. He is too slow to react to situations that are happening in front of him on the pitch. Look at Wenger or Mourinho. If things aren’t going well, they make instant changes to try and affect the game from the bench, positive changes. He has had chances to do that in our last four three home games, hasn’t done it quick enough and we haven’t won the game. Apparently, he told the team at half time on Wednesday being 2-0 up against Southampton at home “wasn’t safe” and we needed a third goal! Who on earth would say that to a Chelsea team 2-0 up and cruising against Southampton! (No disrespect to them of course!).

BlueChampion: Certainly until the end of the season. Remember his contract is for 18 months with an option to review at the end of the season. So if we don’t find a more permanent manager (which he is clearly not), he can continue his contract which runs till end of 2013/14 season.

5) What position/player is your weakest link?

CD: At the moment it seems that at right back is our weakest link. “Dave”( César Azpilicueta) has done well there but has been skinned twice in three league games against QPR and Southampton and we have conceded twice. I am hoping Branislav Ivanovic moves back out there with JT coming into the middle for Sunday.

BlueChampion: Our weakest link could be the double pivot (two of Lampard/Ramires/Luiz). All these are basically attack minded players in the supposedly defensive double pivot. You would find acres of space in the middle of the park to exploit and you can easily win the midfield battle. If only you had Arteta!

6) Which Arsenal player would you like to have and why?

CD: Theo Walcott. For the life of me, I have never understood why Arsene Wenger has never played Walcott through the middle as a striker until it has got to the stage of him leaving? He is a readymade Thierry Henry replacement with his pace alone. Of course he still needs work playing there but his raw pace and ability should justify him starting week in, week out. I see he is about to sign a new deal but if it falls through, I would love Roman to bring him to Stamford Bridge!

BlueChampion: Theo Walcott. Because he brings in a new dimension to the Chelsea squad. He can be a great plan B. We have too many ballers now but we need players like Walcott who can threaten you with sheer pace and he is a good finisher too. He can be a striker option as well as a wide forward player. Hope he doesn’t sign that extension of yours (oops too late!).

7) What is your prediction for the match?

CD: God knows to be honest. At home at the moment Chelsea are a nightmare. We have attacking flair, expressive players playing expansive football until we reach the final third and then find it hard to break sides down. Benitez talks of missed chances against Southampton, but there were hardly any real clear cut opportunities. Out of 18 attempts on goal just three were on target. If Arsenal come here and set their stall out to defend and hit us on the counter, we could have real problems. In saying that, if we can get at the Arsenal, we can cause you all sorts of problems too. Whoever defends better wins the game and it’s as simple as that.

BlueChampion: My prediction is a 2-1 win for Chelsea. Will be an open match. Arsenal’s defence (minus Koscielny) would just suit our bunch very well. We are a much better team now than we had met you last at the Emirates stadium. Even John Terry would be back. But you’re losing Arteta and Kosielny. On paper, Chelsea do look a stronger team with a greater possibility of a win.

Prediction:

Chelsea have only won one in their last seven home games, and I expect the bad run to continue. We will be choc-full of confidence after the Swansea game and the signing of Theo. It should be enough to see us get over the line on our way to a 1-2 victory. Now I wasn’t too sure about my prediction this week so I signed up to a free psychic website and asked a lady with 20-25 years of experience in the field a couple of questions:

Oz: Will Arsenal beat Chelsea this weekend? And by how much?

Jetember: More than likely yes. 1-0

Oz: Will John Terry fall over again?

Jetember: I’m seeing no

Oz: Bugger! My mate TMHT has had some bad luck in his life can you help?

Jetember: I can say a special prayer for your friend (she begins swinging a chain with a cross attached and speaking in another language. 2 minutes later…)

Oz: Thank you. Will we win the Champions League?

Jetember: Unfortunately no

That ended the conversation as I concluded that she knew nothing. I should have known considering she had rap music playing in the back ground. I’ll stick with my prediction! 1-2 to the good guys.

Written By: Oz Gunner.

January and February perfect for Arsenal to start chase for second place

January 3, 2013January 3, 2013TotalArsenal

Arsenal have a perfect opportunity to move up the table in the next two months. Having taken 13 points out of a possible fifteen against supposedly weaker opposition from the last five games, we will now play in quick succession three teams who, like us, are aiming to finish in the top-four at least this season: Man City, Chelsea and Liverpool.

We will know what Arsene’s team is really made off by the end of this month.

In a way, I am happy we will play Man City, Chelsea and Liverpool all in January: our team need these challenges to prove to themselves how good they really are.

In January and February, Arsenal will play seven PL games: five of them are home games (Man City, West Ham, Liverpool, Stoke and Villa), and there are only two away games (Chelsea and Sunderland). Arsenal have had a relatively hard first half of the season, with all away games in – the always difficult for us – North-West already played, and eleven away games played out of a total of 20 games until now.

So, there is now a good opportunity to take points from our direct opponents and move up on the table. Man City will not have Yaya Toure available and I reckon this will prove to be a huge loss for the Northern Oilers. He is one of the few who always gives his all for the club, whilst many of their players seem to operate as contractors, or ‘hired feet’. I have also huge respect for Kompany, Silva and Hart, but ManCity is a team that struggles with cohesion and desire issues in the team, and if we give our all from the start against them, I reckon we can have them. This would reduce the gap between us and them to eight points, and with our game in hand, we can further reduce the gap.

After Man City, Arsenal play Chelsea away. Not an easy fixture for us, but the Chavs just lost to QPR at home, and will play Stoke away next in the PL; after that it is us, and I reckon this is a good time to meet them. Benitez has had mixed results with Chelsea so far, and the fact that he is still not wanted by the fans and just lost a London derby, might work in our favour. Again, Arsenal need to play their game and give their all on the day, but this is the time to show the outside world what this team is capable off.

Three days after the Chavs game, Arsenal play at home against West Ham. The biggest risk will be that we think this is a relatively easy fixture and leave our collective foot of the gas. Let’s hope the team are focussed and give their all; if so, we should take three points from our encounter with the Hammers. The same goes for the February home games against Stoke and Aston Villa.

The next home game after the West Ham game is a big one again: Liverpool. They have started to hit a bit of form recently, and might well come to Ashburton Grove with high levels of confidence. Liverpool play Manchester United away and Norwich at home before they come to us, and especially if they were to get a result at Old Trafford, and win their home game against Norwich as well, they could fancy themselves against us.

However, once again this is a game we should be able to win, given our home advantage. One of the hardest PL games to play in the next two months is our away game against Sunderland. Never easy, and it all depends on form and belief on the day, whether Arsenal can get something from the game.

But, all in all, I feel good about the next two months, and we will know with a lot more certitude whether Arsenal are going the get something from this season in the PL or not.

Now is the time to push on properly and get as close as possible to the second place in the league.

Written by: Total Arsenal.

Newcastle Pre-Match: Giroud should start, but the Dembas need taming!

December 28, 2012December 29, 2012TotalArsenal

Intro:

I’ve always had a soft spot for Newcastle United: they have a great loyal supporter base, are good to watch, and Bergkamp scored the best goal ever against them!

I’d like to start by apologising to Tim Krul for some of the words I said about him last time we met. For those who can’t remember this is what happened:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=an3sYGPla3E

Yes, he did start time wasting very early on; yes, I hate when keepers do it, but I just wish he had of belted up Brave Sir Robin after the game. Then again, perhaps I should be more respectful when talking about Robin because according to Fergie he died during the Swansea game (thank you Ashley Williams).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApuRHCNrgEs

(Just for those who missed it or need a good laugh. I did notice his accidental slip and todger grab also)

Anyway, back to the game!

Replacing Chris Hughton, after he had just brought Newcastle back in to the league, was always going to be a tough task, but until recently Alan Pardew had done it with perfection. They started last season like a house on fire: ‘who cares we all thought’, ‘they’ll drop off soon’. Well they did not, they finished 5^th on the table, ahead of Chelsea, which is to be commended. Pardew has a bit of Arsene in him, with his eye for talented bargains; just look who he has signed since he’s joined the club:

Ba, Cabaye, Ben Arfa, Cisse, and Santon: that list is definitely not to be scoffed at.

Newcastle are an organised bunch who like to sit back defensively and hit you on the counter. I know what you’re thinking ‘yak, our least favourite tactic to play against’. It worked well against Man U and Liverpool, not to mention all last season, however, they are missing key personnel who contribute enormously to this tactic.

Missing in Action:

Arsenal: Rosicky returns, Diaby (thigh) is apparently back next week, Santos returns, leaving only Fabianski (ankle) on the long term injury list.

Newcastle: Ben Arfa (hamstring), Cabaye (groin), Gutierrez (leg), Ryan and Steven Taylor. Williamson may not come up for this one. Tiote returns from his one match ban.

An opposition with a bigger injury list than ours…yep it’s true I just pinched myself and their troubles remain. It is a shame, though, because it really has wreaked their season, then again it has done worse to ours in the past.

Predicted Line-up:

Optimistically, I am hoping we do not see Theo start in the middle again. He’s been okay the last two games, but we need better than okay. To me he walks around like Henry, you know; with a bit of a swagger. He doesn’t bust a lung, he doesn’t chase, and most of all he has not earned that right! He tends to time his runs too soon leaving the midfielders with no outlet and he gets muscled off the ball too easily. I’m hoping Giroud slips back in to test the average Williamson (Santi and Ox should try their best to attack him at all costs); just like Bendtner did a couple of seasons back.

The rest of the team picks itself really.

Previous Encounters:

Arsenal 2 – Newcastle 1

Some guy scored for us and then Vermaelen scored a ripper of a goal with seconds remaining on the clock. Some guy got in a tussle afterwards, the noise coming from the fans was immense.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sk7g9YPxEr8

Newcastle 0 – Arsenal 0

Joey Barton dived and made an arse of himself (what’s new), Gerv got sent off, Song got banned for stupidly stamping on him, but hugged him afterwards anyway. Poor game, and not the start we wanted for the season.

Not going to go into the 4-4 draw.

Form Guide (all competitions): Arsenal: WWLWL Newcastle: LWLLL

Despite our Cup blip, we are coming off our third premier league win on the trot. If we are a serious team with grand aspirations we must continue to perform. Teams around us won’t continually slip up leaving the door ajar for us to climb up the ladder; ‘Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect’, and I feel this is the case for us: let’s make our own future, I don’t give a stuff about other teams, I don’t want to watch other teams praying to Dennis that they slip up! Time to go on a tear, and have another unbeaten run!

Newcastle took the lead at Old Trafford not once, not twice, but three times yet did not leave with a solitary point for all their effort. They put up a prodigious showing, but in true Man United fashion they were out scraped by the final whistle. Despite their valiant showing they sit on a paltry 20 points (5 off relegation zone) and have lost 7 of their last 9 matches. Interesting to note that Newcastle have not won their previous 15 away games.

One to Watch:

Jack the Lad: He recently signed a long term deal with the club and really is a joy to watch. He isn’t afraid to do the dirty things no one else wants to, and cops it from the opposition week in and week out. That’s okay though, not even a kick to the plums could keep him down! If he continues on the right path this bloke is easily going to be a legend in the making. The best thing of all is, I couldn’t care less if he has a stinker, because if he does I can rest easy knowing he still gave 110%. Look for him to take control of the midfield in this one.

I will be keeping a watchful eye on Ba throughout the match. Not only because he is a dangerous forward who could trouble our defence, but because he may be joining Arsenal in the future. He would definitely add to our squad (that I’m sure of), I just hope he has a stinker and doesn’t touch the ball in this fixture!

Key-Match up:

The Demba Senegalese duo:

Demba Ba:

12/13: 11 goals in 18 (1) games (only behind Michu and BSR)

Papiss Demba Cisse

Only scored 3 goals this season thus far but managed to score 13 goals in 13 matches last season for Newcastle.

Both are top notch strikers and capable of brilliance (Cisse’s goal last season against Chelsea was amazing!), but unfortunately for Newcastle they do not really know how to work together. Last season Ba was on fire, he could do no wrong -> He jetted off to the African Cup of Nations -> In came Cisse -> He went on a tear -> Ba came back -> Cisse continued his form, Ba didn’t and went quiet -> Season ends -> Ba kicks in to gear again, Cisse does not -> What can Pardew do? It’s the same sort of position I feel Arsenal would have been in if we brought in Huntelaar. He’s too similar to Giroud, separate they are class players, together…not so much.

Let’s hope these two don’t click against us. If they do, Vermaelen and Mertesacker will have to be on their toes. The loss of Ben Arfa will definitely help quell their influence.

Pre-Match Finger:

The Media! The transfer window hasn’t begun yet but already we are being linked with every striker on the planet. It has gotten to the point where every defender, keeper, striker, winger, attacking and defensive midfielder, and some kids have been linked with us at one time or another. Loose sources, friends of friends, twisted quotes, money hungry players, ‘Arsenals bazillion dollar war-chest’, and of course the Theo Walcott Saga. It really is enough to drive a man bonkers. The sad thing is I’ll still be there every morning and night scouring the Arsenal/transfer news sites sitting and hoping (or swearing at Theo). Damn you media…damn you to hell!

Pre-Match pat on the back:

This week’s pat on the back is a two parter.

Firstly I’d like to thank the tube strike for being responsible for postponing our match against West Ham. Yes it was terrible not having a Boxing Day match to watch but it has been a welcome break for the team, and after the food I consumed on Christmas a bear-like hibernation period was needed. It allowed our first teamers a chance to freshen over a normally busy fixture period. We go in to the match fresh as a daisy (still think we should rotate the squad more often so we are fresher more often) whereas Newcastle come in after a 4-3 slog in the wet against Man United…big benefit!

Secondly (I can’t believe I’m saying this) I’d like to give a pat on the back to the Medical team. It’s been a long, LONG time since we have had such an empty sick bay (not to jinx it of course). I’m not going to get too carried away though because unfortunately the ghost of Diaby haunts the area and I’m sure he will be getting withdrawal symptoms soon enough! Here’s to good health…long may it prosper!

Heck I’m going with one more. Alan Pardew deserves one too; I like how he goes about it!

‘Ask the opposition’ returns again this week. It is designed to get some friendly banter from our opposition fans and get their insight for the match ahead. This week the answers were kindly provided by Paul from www.nufcblog.org , and Kev from http://www.newcastleunited-mad.co.uk.

1) What are your thoughts on the Demba Ba situation?

Paul: Most of the stuff in the media about it is just wild speculation; hence I don’t pay much attention to it. However, the basic situation is that while Mike Ashley (the owner of Newcastle United) wants top players, he wants them for 50% off like the cheap tat in his Sports Direct shops and that includes their wages too. This is how the whole Demba Ba situation has come about, and why Ba and his advisors cling on to his release clause. His knee problem is the complicating factor for a move however, and if it wasn’t for that he’d probably be long gone by now. Then again, if it wasn’t for his knee problem he almost certainly wouldn’t be at Newcastle United in the first place.

Ba knows that his career may be limited by a few years and he wants to make the most of it financially but there isn’t much chance of that at Newcastle, but although a lot of other clubs will undoubtedly show keen interest in such a good striker, they will cool off when they look at the medical reports and try to insure him etc. This is probably why the situation has dragged on for so long and if he does move for a much higher weekly wage, he would almost certainly have to take some kind of “quid pro quo” which will involve little compensation if he was injured and out of the game for good.

Kev: His agent is after £2m on any transfer, and he is the one pulling the strings.

Great player, superb skills as an individual – but not a team player – and not the brightest button in the box.

2) Who has been Newcastle’s best player so far this season? What is he capable of?

Paul: Hatem Ben Arfa who scored an excellent goal against your lot last time. He’s capable of unlocking teams on his own with his amazing dribbling, the vision of his passing, his excellent long shots and so on. However, he won’t be playing so I’ll also pick Demba Ba for this game. This is because he has been feeding on crumbs this season because of the lack of creativity in the side (from the manager not the players). Despite this he is still one of the highest scorers in the Premier League which is a bit of a miracle, and a tribute to his superb finishing.

Kev: Probably Ba in my opinion. Loads have under-achieved being played out of position because of Pardew’s weird system.

3) What formations and tactics are you most likely to employ in this match?

Paul: That’s a good question with Newcastle at the moment. Alan Pardew had had us playing some awful “route one” football for most of the season so far, the kind of football he’s used to. The tactics were mostly a 4-4-2 where we had no midfield and were soaking up pressure in our own half looking to dispossess the opposition, only to launch huge “hit and hope” balls over a midfield void to the strikers which usually fell back to the opposition anyway. However, there seems to have been some kind of player revolt recently and although there have still been defeats in the last few games, two of these have been against the Manchester giants and performances and style of play have improved markedly for the most part. So now you can probably expect to see a 4-3-3 formation with a far more subtle and patient approach through the midfield. In the unlikely event that we go a couple of goals up though, expect Pardew to revert to type.

Kev: Depends who is available. Tactics change weekly with Pardew.

4) What position/player is your weakness link?

Paul: If I must, then James Perch might be filling in for an injured Willamson at Centre Back. Now don’t get me wrong, the lad’s done very well from humble beginnings, especially in the defensive midfield. However he might be a little vulnerable in the air in the centre of defence, though this might benefit teams like Stoke more than Arsenal.

Kev: Everywhere. Injuries have halted any hope of a regular team/formation.

5) What has happened to Newcastle this season?

Paul: See the rant at question 3! Though there have also been issues like Mike Ashley not investing in the squad for European football, along with injuries and such, I still think that the main factor has been Alan Pardew’s Reading circa 1990 tactics. He is one of those managers like many before him who has a good season then gets found out, like he did at West Ham.

Kev: We have been clueless in so many matches. Players playing out of position, and kids not good enough.
Ba and Cisse don’t work as a team; defence is like the days of Titus Bramble.

6) Which Arsenal player would you love in your team and why?

Paul: Santi Cazorla for similar reasons to Ben Arfa. Both are great visionary playmakers and although I’ll just give the dribbling to Benny (his control is amazing), on the other hand one thing about Cazorla is that even though he’s only about 5′ 6″ he’ll muck in and defend more than Benny when the team are up against it. Both are fantastic, world class players.

Kev: About nine or ten of them – different class to us.

7) What is your match prediction?

Paul: I would say that Arsenal are favourites and will probably win, but as I’ve been so negative in parts above, I’ll be optimistic and say that if we perform as well as we have in patches of recent games then we just might get a draw, so I’ll go for a Desmond 2-2 (though my head says 2-1 or 3-1 to Arsenal).

Kev: 2-0 Arsenal.

Prediction:

Newcastle is a tough team to break down. Their defence is strong and Krul is a very good, up and coming keeper, with something to prove after our last encounter. Nevertheless, they are a shadow of their former selves, injuries have blighted their squad and the Ba/Cisse duo isn’t firing. We will have to fight tooth and nail in this one, but I expect a resurgent and rested Arsenal to run over the top off a flat and soggy Newcastle.

2-0 to the good guys.

Written by: Oz Gunner.

Arsenal Top of the League on New Year’s Eve? Leave your predictions here!

October 9, 2012October 9, 2012TotalArsenal

As it is the interlull, and we are a couple of months into the new season, this is a good time to make a few predictions on how Arsenal will perform between now and the end of the calendar year.

Below you will find a number of specific questions and I would like to ask all readers of Bergkampesque to answer these.

It is just a bit of fun, and please free to elaborate on your answers as much as you like. It should lead to some good discussions today.

Just copy and paste the ‘answers section’ at the bottom of the post into the comment box and add your personal answers.

Between now and 1^st of January 2013 we will be playing the following matches:

October: Norwich (a), Schalke (h), QPR (h), Reading (a = League Cup).

November: Man United (a), Schalke (a), Fulham (h), Tottenham (h), Montpellier (h), Villa (a), Everton (a).

December: Swansea (h), Olympiakos (a), West Brom (h), Reading (a), Wigan (a), West Ham (h), Newcastle (h).

Question 1 (5 points for the correct answer):

Arsenal are currently 7^th, only three points between the numbers two and three in the League Table, despite having had the toughest fixtures until now of all the PL clubs. What position in the League Table will Arsenal hold by the last day of December?

Question 2 (5 points for correct prediction):

Who will be our top goal scorer by the end of December? Gervinho is currently top scorer with 5 goals in all competitions, directly followed by both Podolski and Walcott with each 4 goals until now. Will Gervinho continue his impressive run, will Giroud find his rhythm in the autumn months, or will Theo overtake them all with his lethal cameo appearances?

Question 3 (5 points for correct prediction):

We have conceded five goals in the first seven games of the Premier League – three in the last two: how many goals will we concede between now and the end of December in the PL:

a) 0 – 3 goals

b) 3 – 6 goals

c) 6 – 9 goals

d) More than 9 goals.

Question 4 (5 points for correct prediction):

Arsenal won their first two CL games: how many points will Arsenal take from the remaining 4 CL games:

a) 0 – 3 points

b) 3 – 6 points

c) 6 – 9 points

d) More than 9 points.

Question 5 (two points for every exactly right prediction in the top-four – ten in total if all four teams are predicted in the right order):

The current top-four is:

Chelsea
Man United
ManCity
Everton

And the Spuds and West Brom are currently in 5^th and 6^th position respectively. But what will be the top four on the 31^st of December (after last game played)?

In the first week of January, I will report back on individual scores.

Answers Section:

Answer to question one:

Answer to question two:

Answer to question three:

Answer to question four:

Answer to question five:

Thanks for taking part. 🙂

Total Arsenal.