What with the takeover and the tragic loss of Danny Fiszman, last weekend’s game seems a while ago now. But it mattered a lot because we finally found our way to three points again. Would’ve mattered a whole lot more if we’d done that the week before of course, but there we are.
This week we need to do it again against Liverpool who go about their business rather better than Blackpool. They’re not at full strength: Gerrard, Agger and Johnson will all be missing, but with Carroll, Suarez and the industrious Dirk Kuyt they are definitely dangerous.
The injury news for Arsenal is quite good. Szczesny and Djourou may return and Song is definitely back. Almunia’s knee or whatever still keeps him out so if Szczesny doesn’t make it then mad Uncle Jens will play again.
If it Lehman then I hope that Szczesny keeps his eyes and ears fixed on him to pick up how he takes charge. Anyone in the wrong place, anyone who fails to pick up a runner, Jens makes sure they know about it. But he also hands out praise as well.
Hopefully Djourou will make it, because asking Squillaci whether he wants to take Carroll or Suarez doesn’t sound like a question with a correct answer. If it ends up having to be asked then it will have to be Carroll because Koscielny will need to take on the movement of Suarez.
The ninety minute threat of Dirk Kuyt, generally on the right, means that Clichy is going to need consistent help. Which isn’t what you generally expect from Arshavin. So, Nasri on the left? Or even Gibbs, or is that too negative?
With Nasri, Arshavin, Walcott and Van Persie all available we’re probably not going to see Bendtner or Chamakh start.
There has been talk that both might leave the club this summer. This is a tricky issue for Arsenal. Playing the formation we do now, only one out and out striker will start. But given the vulnerability of Van Persie to injury we need a good striker ready to step in.
Perhaps it has to be an older player like Berbatov at Man Utd? Someone who isn’t worried that their future is being jeopardised by lack of time on the pitch.
Anyway, back to the Liverpool game. Late fitness tests allowing I expect to see:
________ Szczesny ________
Eboue Djourou Koscielny Clichy
_______Song _ Wilshere ___
_________ Fabregas ______
Walcott _ Van Persie _ Nasri
What do you think?
