The wind rushes through the hair. The stomach churns and bounces up before dropping quickly down. Moments of horror replaced with longer periods of delight. Being an Arsenal fan this season is like riding a rollercoaster. What a journey we are on. Its been good so far. At every turn just when you are starting to get comfortable, and feel good the world is turned upside down. Only to finish the ride and jump off itching to get back on again.
I feel the exact same way about Arsenal. Always excited, and knowing that it really could be something special.
Its been a few days in between drinks for me on The Voice of Arsenal. I’ve picked up a few pieces on Gunners Town. Check out the pieces below.
- The William Saliba Narrative
- The Progression of Granit Xhaka this season
- Dusan Vlahovic: a scouting report
Busy week coming up with Liverpool in the league cup semi final and then the big one – the North London Derby. Got to put out as strong a team as possible midweek and then have everyone back up again come Tottenham.
I know the Premier League and the Champions League race is top priority but definitely not a time for rest. Every game as it comes. Most importantly we need the momentum back. Two wins against big sides will do the confidence a world of good.
Big selection issue is in midfield – who plays alongside Odegaard. Granit Xhaka will hopefully be fit and play alongside Sambi. If he isn’t the question becomes whether ESR is deemed tactically sound enough in that CM spot or whether Ben White can push forward.
Patino won’t be involved from the start this time. Whilst still very promising it’s clear that alongside Sambi there just wasn’t enough experience to find the right positions and dominate the ball.
Arsenal vs Liverpool Key Area
The key to the cup match this week will be whether Arsenal can beat the press. Last match we couldn’t handle Liverpool’s press which meant we were unable to control the ball for sustained periods. Wave after wave of attack and eventually any team will succumb.
Two aspects become important – composure and quality from our back 5 plus top class movement and willingness to show for the ball from the midfield and attack.
Ben White playing CB if Xhaka is fit will be extremely beneficial but most importantly having Tomi fit is critical. The man is not just an animal defensively he is super composed and calm in possession. Top, top player is Tomiyasu.
The movement through the middle and up top is crucial. Lacazette up front will lead that movement which will cause the rest to follow.
Anyway big game, a few key areas to improve on from the last time the 2 teams met. Pretty much a repeat of the City game would be fantastic.
Short one for me today. If you get time, please give this quiz below a go. Looking to collate some data re Arsenal fans knowledge. Share it with all ya mates and family!
The Ultimate Arsenal Quiz
I’ll be back soon for another longer, more detailed analysis piece.
Kia Kaha.
