what? we are!
We’ve all had a bit of time to mull over the not so shocking defeat at the Emirates. It wasn’t so shocking really was it? For a start; on the back of quotes attributed to Robbie Keane; our squad couldn’t stand up to that of Arsenal’s. At full strength perhaps we have players who are of a similar calibre, (Defoe/Van Persie, Modric/Arshavin and Woodgate/Gallas), but with a squad that seems to change uncontrollably due to the forced hand of Redknapp. Doesn’t really help when with the players that you do have, you make the error of selecting Huddlestone in a match where anchoring the midfield isn’t really going to do a lot of good. Kranjcar may have been able to bring Jenas into the game more; as well as keep the ball and run at Song and Diaby.
The fact that Robbie came out with such things when the squad was in such a weakened state either displayed a level of confidence that would belie a fall of embarrassing proportions especially when backed up by Harry just before the match. This shows a level of tact that (of course in hindsight) has given plenty of ammunition for gooner taunts for the foreseeable future. On a par with West Ham claiming to be at our level when their deficiencies are all too apparent. Whilst we’re on our way to becoming a force in the league; announcing our claim to divinity this early is a unilateral blooper of unprecedented proportions and something that will continue to taint our image in the general public for the foreseeable future.
What’s worse is that a predescribed ‘twinge’ that we all saw Bassong (one of the more consistent performers in the squad) at the end of the game leave the pitch with, is unfortunately a hamstring tear which will leave him out of the side for at least 4-5 weeks. The heartbreak continues.
What needs to be done though; is a short sharp kick in the arse of the majority of our squad; specifically the midfield duo who seem to isolate our wingers and forwards by moving very little during the game unless they feel that everyone else is ahead of them. It’s going to take a little bit of courage and creativity for us to look really dangerous going forward, as Keane and Crouch are never going to pose a threat with 6 players in front of them to get past. Sunderland are a team which could potentially take advantage of our linear approach to football; though thankfully they’re missing a couple of players which could potentially cause us alot of problems. Darren will have a point to prove though; and we all know how good he finishes when given the oppurtunity. Buckle up everyone.
Little more time for the caption competition; on the pre NLD post. Winner will be announced after the Sunderland game.
