Author: BBandbeyond BBandbeyond

That was tough and painful to live through even if the outcome was excellent. Three points. Clean-sheet. Surviving with 10-men. That’s what you need to be successful. Grind out a victory after dominating the game.

Of course, this game was under control until Tomi was penalized with two dubious yellow cards. The first one was a team yellow – Tommi barely had the ball after receiving it from Have-that for the throw-in. But the second one was just none existent. Tomi is an intelligent player and knew his situation. He barely brushed against Ayew. That was not even a foul let alone a yellow card. This was no different than when Eddie fell over in the box in the first half. But this changed the game. And, just to show how inconsistent Coote the referee was, Ayew who had been booked early on, also pulled back (albeit very lightly) a player later on but Coote did not call that.

It was a test we passed though and one that will help us further down the line. The will appreciate how important it is to find a way to win; to defend. In truth they barely forced a save from Ramsdale. In front of him Saliba was always in control (apart from his one slip in the second half).  The vulnerability was without a left-back and with Partey at right back that they would get round the wings. But eventually with the third substitution we moved Partey back into midfield.

Fulham will be interesting. Assuming we can’t appeal the moronic second yellow we’ll be down yet another left-back. This seems to be our cursed position. First Timber then Tomi. Soon no one – apart from Cedric – will want to play left-back. Partey is clearly not a natural right-back though. He really is not comfortable defending. He was pulled out of position and seems to be one tackle away from giving a penalty in the box. Today he just about escaped. But then when he’s pushed into midfield he looks so much more relaxed and confident. Whereas at right back he tends to give the ball away.

Rice on the otherhand continues to shine and excel. Today he was dominant. He reads the game so well and quickly challenges to win the ball back. It’s early days but this looks like money very well spent. He solidifies the team, provides a backbone. And with Saliba behind him helps define the spine of this team.

Have-that still is finding his way. It says a lot about the trust Arteta has in him that he stayed on the pitch for the entire 97 minutes. He was moved into different position as the game and circumstances evolved. I’m still adjusting to his style. He is not a dominant player. He quietly goes about his business. Sometimes you have to watch carefully to see how hard he works and tracks back. He is a little too conservative with his sideways and backwards passing. But he suits our possession game and he seems to work hard to win the ball back. Of course, if I was Trossard, I’d be wondering what it will take to start a game; but the season is long.

Most of our play, of course, was down our left with Saka being the main attacking instrument. Mitchell – who might be a nice addition for us (except he can’t invert) – marked him quite well. Nonetheless, he is still our key threat. On the other side Martinelli actually had a chance in the first few minutes but took too many touches. Thereafter he worked hard and found ways to create as well.

Which leads us to Eddie. What a conundrum he can be.  He hits the post and then misses a relatively more straight-forward chance. He is a natural poacher – each of these instances demonstrated that. He was unlucky with the first but will be having nightmares over the second. But he continued to work hard, make himself available against a packed-defense. And then earned us the penalty with his quick movement and thinking. A clear penalty. Sure Partey stood in the way of their defender but Eddie already well and truly lost his marker. So, thankfully, VAR did not intercede. In fact, more generally, when you think back to when VAR first appeared there is a clear change now. We are moving away from re-referring to the expected “clear and obvious standard”. Sure, it will surely fuck us at some point this year but the direction of travel is right.

At that stage it felt we’d then benefit from Palace attacking more and thus allow us to create more chances. But Coote robbed us of that. Overall though it’s clear Arteta is trying a different approach this year. It’s not clear this will work but we have to give it time. I remain unconvinced by Partey at right-back but without Zinny, he wants the ability of Partey to invert. And he wants to fit Have-that into the team. The balance though is not quite there. Odergaard did not get to create too much today. Often we played at pedestrian pace.

Of course, we’ve played two teams the live and die by the low-block. I’m not sure we’ll see that from Fulham on Saturday. And, that approach constrains the space. But it just feels like we’re a little light on the creative spark. It feels like there is too much of an imbalance in this team. We don’t have proper full-backs and we have Have-that still trying to adapt to our style of play.

Maybe against the more expansive teams we will see that creative side sparkle – as we did for long periods last year. At this point, of course, the most important thing is to gather the three points as we take the time to get comfortable with Artetas’ new approach.

I’ve already mentioned it, but how refreshing is it to see such strong players coming off the bench. Jorghino, Zinny and Kiwior. In part years that would be Numo, Sambi and Pepe (and even Cedric). So this squad depth thing is real.

Around us we see some interesting competition. Those wankers down the road have finally figured out how to play football. Just at the point they have sold their generational goal-scorer and now, instead, have to rely on Richarlison to score them goals. What perfect karma is that. And United looked, as ever, bereft of ideas. Truly a team of individuals. Brighton looks very impressive. Both on the field and in the bank.

Their bank balance blooms (no pun intended) just as LAChelsea hoover up yet more youthful players just as we realize that a little bit of experience can help guide you through. They will surely regret selling Kovacic. And while we’re talking about LAChelsea, it should be noted that while the entire summer has been spent bleating (not by me I hope) about the wanton amount of  money that the Saudis have been throwing at headline grabbing players, we should not exclude LAC from this. They have spent an outrageous amount of money. It’s beyond careless. There has to be some accountability for this. As potentially damaging to football as the Saudis spending is, the more clear and present danger is from LAC behaviour. And, as ever where is the FA on this? To their credit Newcastle, with all that government money have been far more judicious. They have been targeted and careful – not wildly overpaying. LAC somehow can sweep up two £100m+ midfielders and then casually add Lavia.

If a team ever deserved to self-destruct it would be LAC (well, in addition to those wankers down the road). City look imperious but clearly will miss KDB and Liverpool seemed to have picked up a couple of good additions even if they don’t seem to be quite at the level they used to be.

That leaves us with six points and a long road ahead. We need to figure out the right balance for this team. I’d like to see Gabriel back. But, again, I think this is all part of Arteta taking the Pep approach of rotating particular players and changing formations to suit the opponents.

Today was yet another test we passed. Only 36 more to do. I have to learn to pace myself. We just have to be close by in February/March. Until then, we should enjoy this team, the results and watch in admiration as Rice, Saliba, Odergaard and Saka drive this team forward.

-LB7

And so it begins. Another season commences but this time with expectations. The first time in over ten years. And with three points that’s a fine start to the season. Aside from the blip a few years back at Brentford we’re a pretty good bet for the first game of the season.

With a (nearly) full squad Arteta made a few interesting selections. Leaving Gabriel on the bench and going to a back three was more than justified. Forest elected to play attack versus defense. Barely crossing the half-way line. The preverbal park-the-bus strategy. It certainly does not make for interesting football or great entertainment. But that that’s what we can expect this season. Especially after we crushed them last year (at home). And, given the scoreline, they might well argue it was justified.

In fact, they could have taken a shock early lead if Johnson could shoot straight. A great chance through some careless defending. You can put that down to the unfamiliar defensive shape. Now that the wankers down the road have sold off their once in a generation asset, maybe they can – in the spirit of how they used the Bale money – acquire Johnson for $50m to play alongside that Conniving Ugly Nasty Tosser Richarlison.  

Thereafter, our wingers changed the game. Though most of our controlled play originated on the left through the brilliant Saka, that first goal came from Martinelli. As much as I love Trossard, it’s hard not to start our little Brazilian. Sure, there was a little luck involved but, as ever, his first move is forward, to take on and challenge the defenders(s). Then it rolled to Eddie who with the help of the defection from the man-mountain that had been tracking him evaded Turner. Thoroughly deserved and that helped us to relax a little.

And then the masterclass from Saka landed our second. It started with the Rolls Royce that is Saliba winning the ball back from the corner, a few interchanges with Odegaard and White before Saka unleashes a glorious shot. Unstoppable. This boy is priceless for this team.

Thereafter we went into cruise control. Given how deep Forest sat and how little room there was to work in it made our passing seem just too slow. But by then we were comfortably in charge. So it was a canter for the first 82 minutes at which point it became slightly edgy. Aside from their goal I’m not sure Ramsdale actually had a shot to save.

This goal reminded me of the kind of breakaway goal Wengers team would concede. I have painful memories of a goal just like this away at Swansea over a decade ago. As it did not cost us any points let’s just help it’s a learning moment for a young team. But it was noticeable that it was Rice, Trossard and White tracking back here. Why we would leave our defense so overexposed like this is naive.

At that point it made sense to bring on Gabriel to revert to a back four and see our the game even if it was more tense than needed. But, again, this was a good experience for this team. Even if you completely dominate the game, and you don’t press home your advantage, there is always the chance to concede a goal and change the momentum.

Most of the game felt like a stroll though. In hindsight, Forest should have pressed more in the second half as we seemed to be playing in second gear. I’m sure part of this is based on the new players, formations and tactics that Arteta is trying out. I liked the back three but we certainly lost something when Timber was felled (sorry). Let’s hope this is a minor injury because he has been a valuable addition to our team. It was good to see Tomi slot in but, again, Tierney must be wondering about opportunities in northern Spain. For me, this just amplifies again why you need such a deep and well stocked squad. One game and one injury. So please keep Tierney hanging around. For a game like this, against a defensive Forest, we did not need the defensive capability of Tierney.

Rice seems to have slotted in seamlessly. Often drifting out to the left and then dropping back to pick up the ball from the defense, Rice looks so commanding. Have-that was interesting. He seems to float around, mainly passing backwards. It feels like he is still finding his way. A little cautious and hesitant. He is such a different player to Xhaka. In the second half he drifted into the middle and, sometimes, out to the right where Saka and Odegaard hang out. And then Arteta moved him into Eddies spot. Arteta clearly has great faith in him and is giving him ample time to adjust to our style. Today he glided around with some nice touches but did not, in any sense, dominate. But overall he was pretty good. Of course, I remain a little skeptical but I’ll give him time.    

Odergaard is so pivotal to our creativity. When he is on the ball he seems to instinctively know how to open up the defense. It took him a while to get into the game but he is the one part of this team for which we don’t seem to have a replacement. And I say that knowing that Saka would also seem to be irreplaceable. Odegaard needs to be wrapped in cotton wool. Surrounding him though we had Partey who quietly controlled the midfield without any of his customary sloppiness.

As much as Arteta got the formation right it just felt that, especially from the point we were 2-0 up, that there lacked some urgency and pace to our game. We seemed to operating in pre-season mode at times. Again, I’m sure some of this is down to figuring out how to accommodate Rice and Have-that and the brickwall of Forest. But aside from the two goals we did not force Turner to make too many saves. Of course, at the other end I can’t remember Ramsdale having to make any saves.

With the vast array of coaches, sports scientists, and statisticians at Arteta’s disposal, the one coach that we’re screaming out for is a throw-in coach. We seem to take forever and an age to get the ball back in play. We saw last season the number of times our throw-ins would often lead directly to attempts on our own goal (and actual goals). Today it would often take 30 seconds and then we’d lose possession. I’m not an expert at throw-ins – my expertise is particularly limited to food consumption – but there seems to be a lack of player movement and speed of thought.

As much as it was expected, it’s important to collect the first 3 points of the season. Most teams won’t be as dull as Forest and that will enable us to play more freely. Also, our team needs time to continue to develop and evolve. Arteta is clearly moving to a different model for this year. Last year we had the most consistent and stable team selection; you could predict – aside from injuries – who would be our starting eleven. This year, Arteta looks like he has fully embraced the Pepe City model. Constant rotation. Last year we suffered when Saliba was injured. We have more depth now. And Arteta, I suspect, will make everyone work for their place. Only core players – Odegaard, Rice, Saka and Saliba – will be close to ever present. Not even Ramsdale will make that list now. Though I pray he does.

Success this year will be the top 4 again. That is the goal that, previously, our own fans used to deride Wenger for achieving. But in Wengers era, we were short of money and barely invested in the squad. Now though we have made hefty investments. But to expect to dislodge City is overly optimistic. As long as KDB is playing along with their ugly Norwegian, it’s going to take some mighty slip up from them. They have the experience, age and squad depth that we’re only just attaining. We are closing that gap but it still exists.

Around us though there is more competition than has ever existed in the EPL. It’s way beyond the top 6 now. We have, maybe, 9 teams potentially competing for the top 4 slots – or top 3 if you assume where City will land. Liverpool can’t be as poor as last year even if they have lost their midfield to the desert of Saudi and can’t seem to convince players to join them. Then there is LA Chelsea, still willing to pay vast sums to sign anyone with the advantage of no European football. Of course Newcastle will improve but will be stretched by Champions League. Brighton, will tons of cash, and a seemingly unique recruiting system, will also continue to improve. And there’s that other Manchester team with their dreary coach. Which naturally leads to our old accountant who has resurrected Villa and brought in some good signings. And there, of course, is the wankers down the road.

So, this season, there will be no margin for error. Let’s hope it’s not VAR that is the deciding factor. We were, thankfully, spared any intervention today. So, even though we did not shine so brightly today, we came away with the required three points and Arteta would have learned more about his team today. We will only get better, continue to develop even if we’ll wander off in the wrong direction sometimes. This is a team to watch. The investment is in and this is the year to glue everything together. We are, maybe, one transfer window, away from winning this league. In the meantime, we should enjoy this team, cherish Saka, Odegaard and Rice (and Saliba and White….) and know that we are the club and the team that everyone would like to be.

-LB7

So, we finally defeated Manchester City. Albeit it on penalties. Albeit an irrelevant contest that no-one will reminder next Saturday. But a victory none-the less.

It turns out Rodri is the new Trump. If he were to walk down 5^th avenue and shoot someone, Stuart Attwell would still not brandish a yellow card. In the meantime, Partey was given a yellow card for breathing and Have-that got one because, well, Xhaka was not there to receive one. It really was beyond comprehension given the number of fouls Rodri made. Specifically in the first half when he clearly tugged at Have-that and pulled him back. As clear as daylight. Unless you’re Stuart AttPoor. But let’s not have that that detract from a wonderful day. To snatch victory (meaningless though it was) from defeat against our nemesis was refreshing. If nothing else it should provide the squad with some confidence.

As for the game itself both Eddie and Tierney must be thinking they should have left in the summer. No starts for them today. But it’s hard to see how Tierney gets any playing time. As good as Tommy was when he first appeared from us, Timber reset that bar. He was outstanding today. Note it was only when he went off that the scored down his side. As Zinny has said, this guy could be better than him. He clearly defends better, throwing his body on the line to deflect shots. He was a revelation.

On the other side, with the onlooking England manager watching, White was imperious today. He completely controlled Grealish. White provided great defensive cover with timely headers and up the other end created chances for Have-that. He looked as assured as he did all last season. Great to see him back. It’s a shame that Southgate was only there because he thought McGuire might be playing for one of the teams.

Inside we have Saliba as masterful as ever. He truly is a Rolls Royce. Having him signed to a new contract was one of the best moves we had over the summer. But maybe the best was Rice. He slotted in, worked so hard and added a backbone to our midfield. He’s starting to evolve into that box-to-box player we’ve not had since Ramsey (pre Shawcross broken-leg). Arteta is going to guide this boy to greatness. Alongside him we had Partey who, apart from collection a yellow card for existing, managed to give the ball away in important positions but, at other times, look assured and in control.

Odegaard worked hard, and in periods where we controlled the ball was linking play and dictating the game. Some of his touches and control was sublime.

The front was a little quiet. Saka linked well with White and Odegaard, as they did last season but Have-that and Martinelli were a little quiet. Have-that demonstrated some nice hold up play. Of course, he’ll remembered for those two misses. The first one was tough but he should have scored with that second one. I’m not sure that Jesus would have either. But let’s not forget that Martinelli should have also scored there. But he won’t attract any scrutiny.

City dominated the first 20 minutes. It took time for us to grow into the game. Of course, having AttPoor given them all the decisions did not help. But overtime we found our way back into the game. We looked more assured than last year. You could see the improvement. But City are still pretty impressive. The gap between us though is closing. And we have age on our side. KDB is one hamstring injury away from ruining their season. Though when Foden came on he skinned Partey to initiate their goal. They got a lucky deflection off of Rice and then the newly arrived Tierney gave the ball back back to them.

This was their one time to beat the impressive Ramsdale. He saved us – literally – in this game. That save from Foden was the decider. And he even saved a penalty. As I said the other day, we don’t need Raya to replace him. At a decently low price I’d take him as a backup. But Aaron is our man.

Trossard must be wondering what he needs to do to win a starting place. Because when he came on he provided more options, more incisiveness and ultimately our goal. His instincts, control and poise are unmatched. He has been a true bargain.

So, despite the appalling AttPoor, the reserves beat the first team today. City might, rightfully, be the favourites for the title, but today showed that we, the reserve team, continue to make progress. We continue to close the gap. But we still have to mind the gap. It’s another long season, with Champions League football, but our squad is stronger than ever. So we continue to move in the right direction.

And we already have more trophies this year than that lot down the road have had in the last 15 years. So much to be positive about. Just when we thought it was going to be safe in the post-Dean era, the PGMOL have trained up another Frankenstein. However, we have the comfort of knowing that AttPoor won’t be refereeing all our games this year.

So cometh the end of pre-season. The grown up stuff starts next week. Time for me to put down my pre-season training wheels and gear up for the real thing. I remain excited and nervous. Fearful of the refereeing and intrigued to see Rice and Timber elevate this team. And to see whether Have-that can prosper. We have much to look forward toward. And, as ever, we start the season TOTL.

-LB7

There are many things in the world I don’t understand and don’t expect to ever comprehend.

Let’s start with the highlight of the past few weeks. The one that made me laugh the loudest. I mean, if this did not make you laugh then I fear you’ve already been pronounced dead and you just don’t know it.

How is it that the owner of the wankers down the road is even more stupid that we knew? It’s not enough to oversee the appointment of Harry Redknapp, AVB, Morinho and Conte (to name just a few). But he’s stupid enough to share (allegedly; thank you Mr and Mrs Lawyer) inside trading information with his pilots, chefs and others in his employment. I mean, when you have billions of dollars, rather than put them in jeopardy would it not be easier to just pay them a little more from your bags of gold? It’s mind-blowing funny though. When you thought that club could not be more incompetent, they find ways to plum new depths. It tells you all you need to know about their leadership and management expertise.

My hope here is that their glorious leader is now tied up in his legal related activity such that collectively they are unable to extract themselves for long enough to figure out how to sell the club to someone in the Middle East nor how to self-off their primary asset to Bayern Munich. In addition to be the dumping ground for all of LA Chelseas managers maybe they’ve taken a leaf our of Abramovich’s book on how to further tarnish a club and any resemblance of respectability. It’s all quite heartening and highly amusing.

So, while this is borderline incomprehensible, it brings me to my point. Why are we looking to replace, upgrade or challenge Aaron? It does not make sense. Not that all prior moves of Arteta have made sense at the time. And I acknowledge that he has a slightly superior track record in making football decisions than I have (currently). And I remain a fervent believer in Arteta. But this one escapes me. Of course, I felt the same way about Jorginho and have been proven wrong on that one. Though I still expect to be right on the current Vieira.

So why would we pay £40m for Raya? When we had Leno and spent £30m on Aaron no-one thought that made sense. Having watched Ramsdale, I thought this was a smart move that would help the team. Ramsdale has helped lift this team up. So, why do we need Raya?

The argument that we need competition in every position does not hold for goalkeepers. You can have White and Tommy compete for the right back position because both are versatile enough to move to other positions. In fact, the primary characteristics of new signings seems to be their versatility. But that does not hold for goalkeepers. Only one can play while the other has to occupy the bench. There are no other opportunities. I’ve yet to see a goalie play left back (though they would have been an upgrade on Santos).

So, the idea of believing this will provide competition is bogus. Even City with all their money have not gone done the path of having to world-class, high quality goalies. Imagine that. Not even City.

Next, Raya is older than Ramsdale by a few years. So, who will be patient enough to wait out their time? It took Ramsdale 3 games to take over from Leno. How long will Raya wait?

And, if we have a spare £40m to splash around couldn’t we spend it on something that actually plugs an obvious gap in our squad? For instance, a back up to Saka? Or to Jesus? You can’t spend £40m on a backup goalie. Or £30m. Maybe if he cost £15m or £20m and we sold Turner for £15m, then that might make some sense and clearly place Raya as a backup. But you can’t pay £30m+ for a backup goalie. What would that say to Ramsdale? That basically we have no faith in him and that he will be replaced. And if that’s not the case, then you’ll have Raya sitting around expecting to play and becoming upset and disruptive.

Ramsdale has added personality and character to this team. Aside from supporting the team I want to support players that clearly demonstrates a connection to the club, players and fans. A personality; someone with character. And that is Ramsdale. This is the type of player that should be the backbone of the club for 10 years or more. He is as close to Seaman and Lehman as anyone we’ve had in 10 years. If, after watching him for two years you are still unconvinced you should read the brilliant interview he gave for Players Tribune.

You can’t rotate goalies. They need to play consistently to develop an understanding with the defenders. In the same way we don’t rotate center-halfs. You need consistency in defense.

The amount we pay for Raya will tell us whether he’s a backup or his here to genuinely replace Ramsdale. Because Ramsdale won’t hang around if he is no longer our number 1 keeper. And then we’re back looking for another backup keeper.

The only play that makes sense here is that we want sign Raya to prevent Bayern Munich from spending money on him. And thus, saving all they money up to acquire the number 10 from down the road. That I could buy-into. That would make me laugh.

Ok, that’s it for now. This pre-season is proving quite interesting. And I’ve yet to react to the new, most wonderful, statute of Wenger the King of Kings, Emperor of Highbury.

-LB7

Welcome to the inaugural pre-season posting. I have dragged myself off the beach, away from the cricket and away my journey of self-discovery searching for my inner, true, more sensitive and caring self. I failed miserably, which had been my hope. Not one being interested in  embracing change, I’ve instead focused on trying to increase my vocabulary, grammar and spelling. I’ve even been practicing joined up writing.

We have a lot of ground to cover. But let me kick-off this kick-off by recapping the last game of the season – the 5-0 drubbing of Wolves. Enough said.

Now, moving on, as most of you are aware, this blog is brought to you free of adverts, commercials and subscriptions. It is here for the entire world to consume, to bring joy to Arsenal fans everywhere without limitations. However, times are changing. Since the end of the season we here at BB&Beyond have been in discussions with the Saudi Professional League to be their website of choice. Bradybergmapandbeyond brought to you by the Saudi Premier League. Commercial terms, while still under discussion, would be for £500,000,000 per week. However, it feels like the Saudi’s refuse to meet all our terms. The deal breaker for them is our insistence that, in order to close the deal, one of their co-owned 4 SPL teams sign from us Cedric.

The cold war is breaking out in football. It’s the West against the Middle East. Which region can acquire as many POMD – Players of Mass Destruction. There also seems a fair amount of ageism going on. Players have to wait until they are over 30 before being offered ginormous salaries to play in the sand dunes. Or retire to Florida with your favourite tatooed ex-players. Liverpool seemed to have been quite careless with their midfield. Most are now missing. City are also losing the odd player. Weirdest of all was Neves deciding to end his career prematurely for bags of gold. Whereas Barcelona, after the tragedy of seeing Messi move to PSG, has now seen yet more iconic players move to Florida. The ineptness of Barcelona stands right up there with the distorted financial maneuverings of Real Madrid.  

So, the economic insanity of football continues. Fortunately, we have owners who are above all of that. Having earned their money the hard way – marrying into it. We have continued to make structural changes to our team. Last year we more than exceeded expectations even if we disassembled at the end of the season. As we seem to make a habit of. But that can’t take away from the resurgence since Arteta and Edu have taken over. Just look at the players they inherited compared to our team today. Dare I remind us of the days of David Luiz, Mustafa, Kolinsac, Sokratis. And the continued reinvestment has continued this summer.

Rice has been on the radar for at least six months. That is a world-class addition. He’ll need some time to bed in but what a brilliant player. And, this time, LA Chelsea did not manage to intervene. City joined in merely to try and make us pay more. But we got this done early.

In addition, we added Timber and Have-That. Timber looks like a classic Arteta addition. I’m not so sure about Have-That; I fear he could be a Vieira (current not past) type player. Either way, there is a clear statement here. What we lacked was squad depth. We’ve addressed that. Hopefully we hold onto Tierney. Our backline now looks like it could, if necessary, survive without Big Willie. It even looks strong enough to survive the departure of Cedric; the last remaining remnant of the sad reign of Sanllehi.

Our transition continued with the departure of Xhaka. Though this was pretty well telegraphed he will be missed. He also started in Arleta’s first game.  Most importantly we’ll miss his leadership. And I fear Have-That is not an upgrade here. But at least we’ll have ESR returning to help. With the clarity of hindsight, we wasted a number of years of Xhaka. When we acquired him, we deployed him in a defense midfield role that just highlighted his lack of recovery speed and put in him a position to accumulate yellow cards and red cards.

BTW, a small digression, so much has happened since the season ended, but did you see that the unassuming and introverted referee of many masterful performance – Michael Dean – has finally fully retired? From VAR as well. Peace be upon us. Also, as part of our commitment here to further educate, see that FIFA has tweaked the offside rule. This would make a player onside if any part of the attacker is in line with the defender. In other words, offside if there’s any daylight between the defender and attacker. It won’t be trialed in the EPL but it will cause some chaos in Italy, Sweden and Holland.  

It looks like Partey will remain with us for another season. He fell apart at the end of last season. Signing Rice provides us with more capacity and will lighten our load on him. Along with Jorginho and, even, Elneny. But, we still need Partey but with Rice to share the load. There is also another Africa Cup of Nations. If we sold him to the SPL we’d only have to go off and find a replacement. Too much change in one season for me. Last year was about bringing in Zinny and Jesus. This year it’s already three new additions. So, let’s SOP – Save our Partey. We need to party more not less.

There should be more movement in the opposite direction now. Otherwise, we’ll have a LA Chelsea like squad. Pepe. Sambi, Tavares and, of course, Cedric will hopefully move on. And we’ve already lost Maitland-Niles. I hope he at least lands somewhere substantial; I always liked him he just made a few poor decisions. The only major decision left is between Eddie and Balogun. The tea-leaves seem to be in Eddie’s favour. I’ve not seen a lot of Balogun – just highlights – so it’s hard to compare the two. But we’ll only retain one. Hopefully we at least get a sell-on clause for Balogun. Any maybe we’ll take that money and find a suitable backup for Saka. Because, with the Champions League, we can’t afford to overplay him like we did last season. We have to have a viable alternative – and it’s certainly not Vieira.

Maybe we should try and bring over Kane; a renowned Arsenal fan. His time with those wankers is surely over. It’s hard to see why he’d waste the end of his career with that lot. If they had any sense (I know, I know) they’d have sold him already and invested that money in early pre-season. It would be quite something to see him leave on a free at the end of next season.

Which leads us to United. How classless was it for them to dispose of De Gea in that manner. Sure, he was a liability. But for 10+ years he’d been their best player. He had saved them on numerous occasions and been the constant thread from Ferguson through their rotating managers. Sure, the game had moved on and he was incapable of playing the ball with his feet – like Leno and Lloris – but offering him a contract and then pulling it. Oh my. But at least their ownership had yet to be sorted out. That’s a healthy distraction. Sure to tie their entitled supporters in knots.

Which leads us too yesterday. I refuse to review any pre-season game. Though I did watch the MLS game and the United one. For me, I just wanted to see us try different ideas and tactics. And burn in the new players. As the great Wenger used to say, you can’t change an entire team in one window (sorry, Chelsea) and we’re changing some key areas. Rice is with us – hopefully – for 10 years not 10 minutes. This team will need time to settle down and re-discover its rhythm.

This season will be under more pressure. Expectation will certainly be higher. Last year raised the bar. Personally, I suspect we’ll have a similar outcome in the league. Until Pep leaves, and given their money, it’s hard to see anyone else wining the league. But we should definitely expect to compete and also make meaningful progress in the Champions League. My belief has always been that we’d need 3 to 4 transfer windows and then some time to settle in. Which could be the following season. But in the interim a number of other teams will be improved – LA Chelsea, Saudi Newcastle and those wankers down the road. So, the league will be even more competitive.

Thankfully though we continue to make investments and spend money. No-one can complain about the owners now. They have spent oodles of money. After the Aubameyang, Cigarette, Ozil era we are finally bring in the right profile of players – White, Ramsdale, Willy, Tomi, Zinny etc. Sure, there are still misses – Sambi, Tavares and, of course, Vieira. But we are so far ahead of where I thought we’d be that I’m happy to sit back and relax for the balance of the summer. As the world boils to melting point, grain prices start to rise again, and the polar ice caps melt we can rest assured our team is in capable hands and that we will be competitive next season. As long as the planet is still here for us. And as long as Cedric isn’t.

More drivel to come before August 12^th.

-LB7

Yawn. Wake me up in August. That was poor. Not in the sense of being without money but in the sense of being without point, without energy, without structure, without ideas. This was about as pointless as I can remember. Even against Brighton we created more, tried harder and had more structure. And that’s two games in a row where we’ve not scored.

We knew we were not about to win the league today but we at least expected a performance consistent with how we had played this season. Instead, we reverted back to old Arsenal. This was thoroughly pointless. Slow, directionless and without purpose. We could have played for another week and I doubt we’d have scored.

So, why you might ask, were we a witness to such unfiltered drivel. It’s essentially the same players as we’ve used this season. Sure, they might be deflated because they couldn’t win the league. I think we all know the answer. This one was on Arteta. Everything he touched turned to stone. Or a rock. Or a pile of pooh.

If I was Tierney I’d be handing in my transfer request now. Sure, we’ve not been at our best lately. But since we introduced Kiwior we’ve found some defensive stability. So, what did we do today? Arteta moved Kiwior to left-back. Then moved White to center-half and plonked the Pathetic Partey at right back. A classic disaster right from the start. To accommodate one problem – no Zinny – we moved three players out of position. Though to be fair White looked very comfortable back in his original position. And all in order not to play Tierney.

Everything about this change reeked of a disaster. We lose any capability down our left-hand side. Kiwior is a great addition to this team but he is no left -back. Aside from being out run by some random Forest forward he had nothing to do. But he was incapable of supporting Xhaka and Trossard. Consequently, everything was down our right-hand side.

Except that meant it would start with Partey trying to feed Saka. So, this simple change unhinged the entire defense, midfield and attack. At least we left Ramsdale in place. But Saka would not receive the ball how he normally would from White. Partey and White were passing to themselves. Everyone – in particular Jorghino – was pointing at Partey for him to move into different positions. Poor Partey had no clue how to play right back.

I figured though that Arteta would correct his mistake after thirty minutes. And the convinved that at half-time we’d see us settle back to our normal shape. It was that blindly obvious. But no, we had to suffer through this drivel for 63 minutes before he brought on Tierney. And then finally we had a little movement on our left. But Tierney must understand by now that Arteta won’t use him. I mean, with Zinny out Arteta would select Tomy ahead of him. And now with both out he prefers to rearrange the defense in order not to play him.

And in-between we had to watch – yet again – Odegaard make another sloppy infield pass on the half way line that opened up our defense for their fortunate goal. This was the game. One mistake and one goal. I know we love Odegaard but really, this is not the first time he’s done this. At some point you have to learn from your mistakes. And today Odegaard clearly has not and it does not look Arteta has either. This pass by Odegaard was so sloppy and careless. Identical to the West Ham game. And I think, there was one other game where he did this but, in my deep sadness, I think I’ve blocked out that painful memory.

This is the point where I try and bring some balance of this article. We have to recognize the improvements we’ve seen this season, the quality football and the progression. It’s just a shame none of it was on display today. This was drivel. This was as turgid as it gets. We were without energy, spirit or creativity. The entire balance of the team was wrong. And that’s on Arteta. Ok, so much for balance.

This was one of his worst games for us. And, unfortunately, highlights a blind spot Arteta has shown in the past. His failing with in-game management. How did it take until the 63^rd minute to make a change. He should had changed things up after 30 minutes. We wasted so much time doing absolutely nothing. And that’s on Arteta. And even then, we persisted with Partey at right back.

I had assumed Tierney would come in at left back and everyone would slide over with Partey being subbed or moving to midfield. Yet somehow he remained on the pitch. I don’t get what Arteta was trying to do. And yet he removed Xhaka just as a real leftback came on. And then we had to see the vacuous Vieira as well.

What a waste of an afternoon this was. What a waste of momentum. This was a disaster from beginning to the end. This team had no idea how to play together. It was so slow and pointless. Arteta change completely unhinged this team. I kept waiting for us to gel and resume playing how we have all season long. Even when we’ve lost recently, we had some semblance of rhythm and style. Today we looked clueless. Areta confused his own team today. Arteta 1 Arsenal 0.

I don’t mind making changes. That is the only way to learn. And the result was immaterial. But you also have to react when those changes clearly don’t work. Yet Arteta persisted with a clearly failing strategy. At this point of the season, you’re playing for one reason only – next season. You’re setting yourself up for the new season.

But here we are against a bog standard Forest team playing sideways and backwards. Draining all our confidence and momentum. So rather than creating momentum into next season we’re going out with a damp squid. And we’re undermining all the good work we’ve done this season. And this is all on Arteta.

What I did like today was seeing White at center-half. He played confidently and I prefer (with the absence of Saliba) to see him on the ball. Of course, there was no-one ahead of him to receive the ball and Partey had no idea where to be on the right. Which is why we needed White at right -back. Jorginho was solid. But there was minimal movement ahead of him. There was nothing on the left. Trossard was too far away from the action. Jesus darted around but we had no idea how to pick Forest apart.

I’m not sure that Xhaka touched the ball in the first half. This team was so out of balance. But I was convinced Arteta would recognize his mistake and make a change at half-time. Yet we started the second half in the exact same way with the exact same outcome. How could Arteta not see the issue. What does this say about Arteta? Is he this stubborn and rigid? I don’t think so. But is Partey destabilizing at right-back. Der, is the Pope Catholic?

So, in case, I’ve not made my viewpoint clear. Arteta’s team selection was completely flawed. His in-game adjustment were non existent. His opportunity to make changes was wasted and then his substitutions were the wrong players at the wrong time. Apart from that, Arteta was great.

So now the question is whether Arteta persists with this approach or resets and reverts back to what we know works. Does Arteta undermine and derail the progress with this flawed position changed or learn his lesson and put us back to the place where we were progressing. This is really quite worrying at this time of the year to suddenly be confronted by doubts about what Arteta is trying to do. How the fuck do you lose to Forest when they are this shit? But putting your players in a structure that brings out the absolutely worst in them and then not adjusting.

That was a dreary a game as I’ve watched in such a long time. It reminded me of end of era Wenger performances or accountant Emery games. How depressing is that. We had no game today. I don’t understand what he was trying to achieve today. And worst of all, he seemed clueless as to what was happening. How could he not see Poor Partey struggling in this new position?

I could have managed a better Arsenal performance today than Arteta. I’m available if needed for the Wolves game. Because if he insists on leaving Partey at right back he will rapidly lose the crowd being on his side. He will dissipate all the good-will built up this season and contaminate next season. This is the stupidity of it all. We have been slowly going backwards over the last month or so. I thought after the Newcastle game that we’ve figured it out. Bring Kiwior in for Holding. That saves us. So why move Kiwior?

I realize I’m just repeating myself at this stage. But I’m looking for some silver lining. And it’s eluding me. We basically had a week to prepare for this game (or six days) but we had no way to pick apart their wall of nine defenders. We didn’t even blood any of the youngsters on the bench. We did not see SRP. But we did see Vieira. Who managed, at the end, to get in the way of Odegaard in the box. Right after Jesus slipped over when he sighted goal. Nothing worked for us today. This was more than a bad day in the office. This was more like a day spent stuck in a locked car in the parking lot for ninety (or one hundred) minutes.

Sure, Sp*rs lost again. But, there is little satisfaction in that after such an abject, emotionless performance such as this. Because today was as utterly boring and tedious as you could hope for.  Maybe we should just forfeit the next game and go right to our summer holidays. Yet, I want to see what Arteta does in the next irrelevant game. If he still plays Partey at right back then I know we’re really fucked. Because that means Arteta is really fucked.

-LB7

No longer TOTL. And we won’t be until the new season starts. Well, that was a fluster-fuck. At least we did not lose the league today. That was in the three draws previously. Today was never about jumping ahead of City. We were however, outplayed but a dominant Brighton team.

For the first time this season – aside from City – we were outplayed. They had more possession and we didn’t take the opportunities that came our way. Too many times we wanted that extra touch. Whether it was Odegaard or Trossard.  Yet, one might wonder what Trossard was doing on the pitch. For that you have to ask Madley. He mad so many aberrant decisions today.

We did not lose because of Madley but he how did he not book Caciedo for that foul on Martinelli. The man had to leave the game and yet, nothing? And their first goal. A clear foul on Kiwior? Neither he nor VAR seemed to see what we could all see. How can that be deemed not to be influence the game? Brighton were very good at breaking up the pace of the game in the first half. Both fouling and taking time on all restarts. They, intentionally, disrupted the rhythm of our game. And Madley allowed it to happen. But so did we. But then Madley also allowed this to happen when we played Newcastle at home. So a pattern is emerging with him. And it’s not a good one.

Today we had no answers to them. Our passing was not sharp and we gave the ball away too often. To be fair, that was because of their pressing. They played out from the back most of the time. Often we would win the ball back by pressuring them but then immediately turn the ball over again. Steele in their goal misplaced a number of passes but we could rarely build anything from it. They played a very high risk game but we were not able to capitalize on their mistakes. Yet, care of Trossard, we made one mistake, in the second half, in passing out from the back and they scored.

It felt like however long we played for today we would not score. Without Zinny and, for most of the game, Martinelli, we had little movement on our left. Everything seemed a little subdued. Maybe we’ve just ran out of steam. Odegaard was fairly quite aside from one shot from distance. Saka, closely marked all game, was unable to impose himself. And White was being ripped apart by the impressive Mitoma. Their long balls over the top continually threatened us.

Even with after a half-time break, we could not change the direction of the game. They controlled the game, passed relentlessly whereas we could not keep the ball. As dominant as we were last week Brighton were today. We had no answers to them. Arteta was unable to change the tempo of the game.

Quite frankly, we looked a little lost and surprised. This was Brighton fired up after their home loss to Everton. But, if you want to compete for the TOTL, you have to know how to deal with this type of game. And we didn’t. Jorghino was not able to build anything, Jesus worked hard but was unable to threaten their goal. He lost every header against the giant Dunk. But, why would we play long high balls up to him when he’s marked by a giant beanpole.

There was little enthusiasm or energy today. You kind of knew how Brighton would play but we had no answers. We were unable to control the ball or create much. I don’t think Steele really had any meaningful shots to save. We would get close but then fail to hit the target – aside from when Trossard hit the bar.

It was deflating to watch and just deflating to write about. I would not blame Gabriel or Kiwior. White was exposed too often but then Saka did few favours for him; he failed to track back too often. On the other side Tierney did not try to play inverted. And Xhaka missed Martinelli. Shame Caceido didn’t.

On their side MacAllister ran the game. No-one could get near him. They played out from the back and then launched long balls over our midfield. Their tactics were excellent and ours never changed. We kept on trying to do the same thing and yet our passing was not crisp enough. They were the better team today.

But it felt like we wilted, just lost confidence and self-belief. There were very few occasions where we really built any momentum and threatened. Maybe this is an overreaction to losing 0-3 at home. I can’t remember when this last happened. Even against City we managed to score one goal. Today though we were unable to pull them apart. On the other hand they were able to hit us on the counterattack with those long balls over the top. Mitoma really was a handful today.

Brighton are a good team – make no mistake. But we made far too many mistakes today. And Arteta will learn from this as well. He was too slow to adjust his tactics and system. His substitutions seemed ok, and it was good to see SRP again – even if he did nothing. But the directness of the team was missing. We were unable to really create. Nelson, added energy when he came on. But Trossard is not a midfield player. And that exposed Tierney as well.

So rather than continue to drone on about how flaccid we were today – and this will happen in any normal season – but should not have happened today, at this crucial time of the season. Instead, let’s focus on the abysmal TV coverage. I’ve noticed this in a number of games lately. And, it’s been a while since I’ve ranted on about this. But, please what is going on with the selection of pictures we’re seeing on the TV? Who is choosing to show endless replays when the game is in play? Who is deciding to have the camera lock in on the manager when there is play going on?

Today, when Brighton would choose to play the ball out from their goal-kicks – which is basically every goal kick. – instead of watching this we’d have shots of the manager or the most recent player to touch the ball or another unnecessary replay. Why can’t they just show us the game? Why do we have to see these random shots of the last player to touch the ball? And then hover on that player for 15 seconds?

It ruins the flow of the game. Also, when the play is on the wing, the close up camera shots make it impossible to see the flow of the team, the spaces available or the available options for the player. It’s like MTV is running the camera shots. It’s destined to give you a headache. Why can’t they offer either picture-in-picture so we can continue to watch the game or another feed that just shows the actual football match?

I caught some of the Everton City game. After their first goal they continued to show endless replays from minutely different angles. In the meantime City were winning the ball back and setting up their second goal. They managed to cut back just as City won the ball back for Gundogan cross the ball for their second goal.

It feels like there is an intentional stylistic change to make the game more “hip” or “interesting”. Yet, everyone wants to watch these games, That’s why the TV rights go for billions. So rather than try and make this an artsy-like experience and/or trying to capture the emotion of individuals in the crowd, can’t they just let us watch the actual game.

It is more fun though to rant on this than our team. After the season they have produced, landing second in the league, it seems churlish to rip them apart for this performance. Truth is the result was always going to be irrelevant as City just relentlessly march on. And, just, maybe, like the Sp*rs and Newcastle disaster at the end of last season this will be yet more fuel for next season.

I fear though for where this stylistic change in the use of camera angles and replays will take us. And there’s no obvious mechanism for providing feedback. It’s been getting worse for years but this weekend was ridiculous. I would pay good money to find out who is the right person to complain to.

In the meantime, we should just note that while the ugly man from the north has won player of the year, this is all Kane’s fault. If he would have joined them as he should have done, they would not have been so dominant. And it’s not like Sp*rs would have been any worse.

So, as dispiriting as today was, we can’t let that cloud over this season. We remain way ahead of where we thought we’d be. So are Brighton though. Arteta is not the only bright young thing managing in the PL. But we need to be careful now in our recruiting. We have found yet another impressive center half in Kiwior. We just need more in midfield.  When Partey eventually came on again he remained off the pace.

I know it’s said that MacAllister is headed to Liverpool but I’d love him to join us. More so than Caceido. Have both MacAllister and Rice. That would be nice. And another forward. And maybe another full-back. We need to grow this squad because this year we’ve been a little short and next year, in the Champions League, we won’t be able to blood any youngsters. And Chelsea can’t possible be as awful as they were this year. Likewise, Liverpool. So, while we compete in the Champions League we’ll have tougher competition in the PL.

So say good bye to TOTL for this year. And start to relish the excellent season we’ve had – up until today. It’s the upward trajectory that counts. And whether we can learn lessons from performances like todays. We remain a young team with great potential. But as Brighton showed, this is true of others as well. We have to learn to take the opportunities as they present themselves. We have to develop a kill instinct. We missed that in our drawn games and that’s what cost us the league. But, just maybe, we weren’t quite ready. The table does not lie.

Two more games left. So, let’s enjoy them. Let’s play free of tension and fear. We have nothing to play for now apart from the joy of the game. And the fans now can show their appreciation for the unexpected season we’ve had.

-LB7

Not quite TOTL but brilliant nonetheless. I did not see this coming. I figured obliterating Chelsea would be it for this season. Instead, we witnessed a total performance in one of the most difficult venues. Returning to the scene of our disaster of last year my only requirement for success today was a demonstration of backbone. I had not expectation of winning this game. We got so much more.  

Though the first ten minutes were a little hairy, we rode our luck and stuck in there. And then, in a way we never did last year, regained our composure. We played some excellent football while under continuous physical pressure. They hit the post within 2 minutes and then had a penalty decision reversed by VAR. Imagine that. VAR coming to our rescue.

It must be noted that Chris Kavanagh was pretty shit the entire game. Even handy shit I suppose. I can’t believe he waited so long to give a yellow to them. And, of course, he was directly in the line of sight when he erroneously awarded that penalty kick.

Once we saw out that period, we began to assert ourselves and play our game. We had a number of opportunities. Each stemming from vertical passes from Zinny or Xhaka into Odegaard to then feed Martinelli and Saka. Neither could finish. But, it definitely pegged Newcastle back. For all their physicality this they lacked the balance and poise that we had in spades.

Like the last game, Arteta picked the right personnel and then made the right changes at the right time. Kiwior had to start instead of Holding. That, in a nutshell, defined this defense. From leaking goals since we lost Big Willy we are now holding (no pun intended) to 1 goal or, today, a clean sheet. He not just provides stability, calmness and speed. But he enables Gabriel to play with confidence. He improves everyone around him. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said of our Rob. Aside from the improvement in our collective hairline.

It makes you wonder what the outcome would have been if we had brought him in against West Ham or Southampton. Kiwior has been key to our last two matches. Everything starts and ends with our defense. And yet again Ramsdale was immense.  Today there were at least two game changing saves he made. When you consider that the lump up the other end was beaten by a 25 yard Odegaard shot and that the lump can’t pass the ball, it’s mind-blowing that Southgate – in addition to ignoring White in favour of McGuire – would consider the lump that is Pope might be a better goalie than Ramsdale.

It was also noticeable that Ramsdale used good judgement today with his distribution. Early in the game when we were under pressure and their crazy northern crowd were baying for blood, he played it long – none of that dodgy playing out from the back. As we started to control the game and the heat was off, he then passed it out from the back. And as the game came down to the last 10 minutes he again played it long.

Odegaard has been immense these last two games. It’s not such an achievement against a pathetic Chelsea team (though it’s not clear they are a team) at home. But away, in the cauldron of St. James Park, he lead from the front. He was exceptional today. Not just the game changing first goal but his work rate, passing and positioning. He has elevated his game and, most importantly, grown into his leadership role. I was always a little skeptical of his leadership but not today.

Alongside him we saw Jorginho put in another dominant, controlled and vital performance. We looked so much safer with him there rather than Partey. Arteta got that selection right again. Even when Partey came on he was invisible. Jorginho was anything but. It’s not often I’m wrong. I was wrong about not buying Amazon when they went public. I was wrong about having children – let alone four morons. And, I admit, I was wrong about Jorginho. He has helped saved our season. I was adamantly against signing him. But, I was wrong. There, I said it.

As much as I loved Partey, I’m happy to see him on the bench with Vieira now. And alongside Jorginho and Odergaard we had the impressive Xhaka. He was brilliant today. Exemplified by his last ditch tackle deep into our own box in the second half. Xhaka was both creative and defensive today. This was a game where, in the last he’d have been booked or sent off. Thankfully his pal Schar helped him keep his temper in check. But the three of them in midfield kept Bruno largely in check.

And up front Jesus continued to work tirelessly. He might not have had a shot on target but he enables our defending to start from the front. Even in the few minutes when Eddie came on it was noticeable that without the pressing Newcastle were able to compress the game into our last third without any real outlet. Jesus exudes energy and commitment.

Saka was again somewhat subdued but not as much as of late. Aside from his one breakaway he was able to relieve pressure. As was Martinelli. Here was another good switch by Arteta to start him. His ability to carry the ball up field was vital. And, aside from his first half miss, he was able to create that all important second goal. This gave us some breathing space. I’m just grateful that this second goal did not happen until the 70^th minute. I’d have been very nervous to have gone in at half-time two nil up.

The league has gone. The machine from the north is not going to drop the five points we need to be TOTL. But today was important to demonstrate that this team has grit and a vertebrate. To be able to go to St. James Park and play the way we did sends a message about the mental state of this team and it’s potential. And reminds us of the inherent quality of this team. To be able for us to rediscover our form and rhythm from earlier in the season (i.e. pre Liverpool) was equally important.

We are now assured of being the second best team in England. No-one would have expected that at the start of the season. Do you remember how we started the prior season? The over-reaction to Ben White against Brentford? And then, look at him today? This team has reestablished itself, found it’s mojo and changed the momentum (again) in the club. It bodes well for next year.

Of course, there are still issues to resolve. But if Kiwior is yet another example of our new regime for recruiting than I remain ambitiously optimistic. We do though have to figure out our own Trent Arnold problem. As important as Zinny is to our creativity, today, he was torched defensively. Most of their opportunities came down his side. They exploited all the space he vacated when he moved forward. This is the TA issue that Liverpool have. As all teams try to copy City, other teams are now figuring out ways to respond. There were times today when, literally, Zinny was on his arse. It was reassuring to see Tierney finally come off the bench to help provide some much needed defensive stability. And we even we went on to score a second with him on the pitch.

Today, unlike against City, our key plays stepped up and excelled. They did us proud. It’s hard to choose who was the most impressive. The list is pretty long – Kiwior, Gabriel, Xhaka, Jorginho, Odegaard or Ramsdale.  I think it’s a toss up between Kiwior, Ramsdale and Odegaard but I’d just about give it to Odergaard.

Next up are the ever improving Brighton. This will, hopefully, be our last testing game of the season. At least we’ve got them at home. And though, with second place sealed, there’s nothing on the line for us, it will again be important to assert ourselves against them, out play them and scout which of their players were want to purchase in the summer. Aside from monitoring Caceido, I like their little Nip on the wing. Though with Trossard, maybe we don’t need him.

Lastly, it’s illuminating how we went up to feisty Newcastle and came away with three points and a clean sheet. Whereas, a certain other bunch of wankers let in six goals. Nice contrast.

So, Not Quite TOTL but an excellent performance today. We clearly demonstrated the growth in this team since last year. The progress we’ve made. And the possibilities for this team. This is a team to be proud of; to revel in; and to enjoy the beauty of our football. Enjoy it. It only happen once every ten years – but it can last for ten years.

-LB7

TOTL again. Farewell April and welcome May. Finally, we find our way to win. If only we could play Chelsea every week (or Sp*rs). This was more like it. Back to winning ways. Back to our style and back to rhythm.

This was all down to the changes Arteta made. Something had to change. So, he (finally) jettisoned Partey but also, more interesting, brought in Kiwior for Holding. Wow, what a difference that made. Though, to be fair even a one legged donkey could have marked Aubameyang in the first half. And, justifiably, Trossard got to start.

And, as the game started, we started to find our way against an unstructured, dispirited Chelsea team. Here’s a game I’d like to watch, Chelsea v Sp*rs. Surely, in the history of football, this would be the only game where both sides would each find a way to lose.

I know I should wallow in the glory of our victory but it’s just so hard not to laugh at the abject fiasco that is Chelsea (or Sp*rs). How fitting that they have F. Lampard as their manager. He surely is the antidote to Pep. He is the anti-Pep. Devoid of ideas, tactics or management skills. How inspired it was for him to pick our ex-Captain.

Back to us though. Kiwior excelled tonight even against a completely limp Chelsea attack. Actually, I don’t know that’s the correct term. It was more like a Chelsea sideways, slightly forward excursion. In the first half there was just one chance for them when Chilwell outmuscled Saka only for Ramsdale to make his usual save. For his first start, when the pressure was on, Kiwior looked assured, in control and can actually pass the ball. It makes you wonder what might have happened if we’d have picked him again West Ham or Southapmton not to mention City. Maybe we’ve found someone reasonable way to substitute for our Big Willy.

Jorginho, against his old crew, controlled the midfield in a way we’ve not seen Partey do for a while now. Alongside him Xhaka rediscovered his energy and frequently drove into the box. He was instrumental in our goals. We also witnessed the awakening of Odegaard. Two exceptionally well taken goals and an overall performance worthy of a captain.

Saka, again, seemed subdued. Maybe that’s what happens when 15 players mark him. Most of our creativity happened down our left. Though there were occasions where he and White carved Chelsea open.

Jesus floated around the entire pitch only rarely turning up in a center-forward position. Trossard and he interchanged frequently. And Jesus finally picked up a poachers goal as well. I should also mention Zinny, who, given the space, time and freedom of the park by a generous Chelsea, was able to dictate and control the tempo of the game along with Jorghino.

So going at half-time at 3-0 was still a little nerve wracking given our recent history. And of course, the most wonderful Sunday game where Liverpool went in 3-0 up. As good we were, you just knew that even Chelsea just could not be that appalling and pretty vacant in the second half. Sure enough with Havitz on, they started to nearly resemble a football team. However, we still created numerous chances that we failed to capitalize on. But our smoothness, pace, interchanging and speed were all there – unlike on Sunday.

And then we let them back in the game. Zinny switched off and they sneaked one in. At which point the substitutes started to come on. Zinny was replaced by a more defensive Tierney and Saka was given a rest for Nelson. It’s interesting that Eddie is now behind him in the pecking order. And thankfully Vieira is behind everyone.

Gabriel struggled to stay on the pitch. Whether it was a dodgy hamstring or endless kicks he received he managed to last through 85 minutes. Alongside Kiwior, he was back to being his solid best. That’s what happens when you have another footballer alongside you. By the time Holding came on the game had gotten quite scrappy. They had a few chances but we somehow managed to block them out. It was not an entirely inspiring second half performance but maybe we should just put that down to game management.

Don’t underestimate the importance of Kiwior. In the previous painful 4 games it’s been our defense that lost us the game. We have proven we can score. But without Saliba we can’t defend. But today we managed to limit them to a solitary goal. Our previous 4 game shave leaked 2 goal or more. Not today. Of course, this was also due to Aubameyang and the ineptitude of Chelsea.

A word or two on Rob Jones to referee. Though not as poor as Paul Tierney – who thankfully allowed Jota to stay on the pitch after trying to decapitate Skipp – which seems quite reasonable actually. I mean, with the bulging eyes and receding hairline, Skipp should really be working as a gnome in the fair ground. Anyway, Jones refused to give our any yellow cards as Chelsea clattered into us. And generally refused to protect our players. Today though we did not need VAR to Rob us. We, via Xhaka, Trossard and Odegaard calmed our nerves and restored us, if only temporarily, to our perch at the TOTL.

It was noticeable that even when Partey came on for Jorghino, he was behind the pace of the game, still gave the ball away and committed careless fouls outside of our box – as he did against City. I can’t see how he can start against Newcastle. I know they are a real team as opposed to the jigsaw pieces that are Chelsea, and that. Jorghino is blessed with Xhaka-like pace, but it just seems like Partey is spent. He needs to be hooked up to a Tesla supercharger for a couple of weeks.

What a relief then to finally win a match after the disaster of the last three games. I don’t think we’re entirely out of our funk yet. But there are signs. With Kiwior instead of Holding and Jorginho instead of Partey, maybe we can put in a more spirited performance against Newcastle than we did last year.

Of course, you can’t compare the tactical genius of Lampard to Eddie Howe. So, this will be a far more challenging match. Not one I expect is to win but certainly one I don’t want us to lose. I worry that we can be overrun and, with their northern, working-class, heathen crowd baying for blood (ours not theirs) the atmosphere will be electric. It will require a calmness we’re rarely demonstrated. I fear we will get out-pressed and make unnecessary mistakes.

For example, it was just a little alarming to see Ramsdale trying to make the same flawed pass in the first half that caused us to give up that goal at Southampton. This time Chelsea, inevitably, were unable to figure out with the ball at their feet they could attack our goal. But against Newcastle we won’t be able to repeat that mistake. And it makes you wonder – just a little – about Ramsdale and his ability to learn from his experiences.

So, we head up north, invigorated by the flaccid Chelsea. They really are a wonderful sight to behold. At this rate Bournemouth will finish ahead of them in the league. How amazing is that. It’s interesting that the Chelsea fan (because there surely is just one at this point) are not yet screaming and demonstrating against their new demented and delusional owner. How can they keep so quiet when he is to clearly retarded. He is the archetypal, sterotype of an American owner. Boehley is to ownership that Ted Lasso is to football management – minus the charm.

I’d pay to see a football debate between Boehly and Levy. Two idiots running their respective teams into the ground. How wonderful to watch. As I’ve said before, I’m looking forward to Levy appointing Lampard as their new manager.

Today was the day I regained my enthusiasm and enjoyment. Now let’s hope we can retain our poise and style for Sunday. Like any sensible Arsenal fan (not that I’m sensible) I have no expectations for the league. City will continue to grind out wins. That’s what happens when you can buy up every player and there is no consequence for abusing the financial fair play rules (not that I’m bitter). I just want to see us compete and I want to see us return to our style of play and, most importantly, maintain it for 90 minutes and not just for the first half. Maybe we can lobby FIFA or EUFA to only play a single 45 minute halves from now on. Until then, we have to find some consistency throughout the 90 minutes.

In the meantime, I will continue to wallow in the beauty of our goals today and the Jota goal on Sunday. Now that, truly, was a thing of beauty. You can’t make this stuff up.

Last word – remember – we’re still TOTL

– LB7

TOTL still. It’s a shame this will be the last time I can say that this season.

I needed more than 48 hours to recover before providing any commentary. Actually, if truth be told, I was not going to say anything about this game as I was not able to watch the game in my natural environment. I had been on a top secret mission. Edu had personally approached me to go over to Europe and scout possible signings for last season. I had been sworn to secrecy but, unfortunately, my notes were hacked by some Russian hackers (or was it a lieutenant colonel in the US army – who can tell these days) and the recommendations are now being fed into ChatGPT in order to generate an A.I. Arsenal team for next year. All I can reveal is that this team will eviscerate Sp*rs 6-1 in Ryan Mason’s last game in charge before they hire Frank Lampard to drive them into the championship.

But back to Wednesday. This was about as predictably painful as could have been expected. To not even get through the first 10 minutes with a clean sheet and then to have VAR help them with a second goal before half-time seemed unnecessarily cruel. I mean, it genuinely looked to be offside. And with the lines being drawn such that you could not simultaneously see the moment the ball was played and the line, it made it impossible to tell. But you just knew they’d allow the Stone goal to stand. Like they did not need any more help. I’m sure the outcome would have been the same. But it was particularly cruel.

And, of course, it was Partey that had given away that free kick. In the same way he’d given away the first goal. As Holding was holding the ugly Norskman, Partey was watching KDB glide by him. As he did for the entire game. As pivotal and important as Partey has been for us this year – and last – these last few weeks it seems like he has disappeared. Not to lay the blame for this result on his feet (which he’d then lose to KDB) but this was as poor a performance from him that we’ve seen. He seemed lost and tactically exposed. That could be said for Arteta as well (though he was not actually trying to mark KDB) but the Pep moves seemed to bamboozle us.

Our two best players – Saka and Martinelli – were starved of the ball. They were completely marginalized in this game. City flooded the midfield, pushed their wingers wide and then unleashed KDB and the ugly Norskman on us. We seemed unable to adjust. Well, not until we brought on Jorginho by which time it was too late.

As depressing as it was to watch and as annoying the inevitable and unnecessary involvement of VAR, it’s hard to debate the outcome. It did not need to be 4-1 but, based on what we saw, it was clear they’d be only one winner. It just would have been more fun if the contest had lasted longer. And, for our young team, maybe this is another part of the learning process.

Maybe we can blame the Crown for snatching the title from us. If a certain person could have delayed her death, then the original schedule fixture could have occurred before the corrupt World Cup. Then, for the originally scheduled fixture, we would have faced a City team that was disjointed and dropping points. Whereas, back then, Arsenal were functioning smoothly and firing on all cylinders.  Instead, we had a City that had finally found their rhythm just as we were discovering last years end of season form.

Against a City in this form, we needed our best players to be at their best. Instead, we had Partey playing like Denilson. Jesus was completely ineffective and Zinny was barely involved. Xhaka was equally quiet. And then there’s Holding being overrun by the savage from the north without any protection in front of him. The only players that seemed to show up were White and Ramsdale.

Too often we were being overrun on the counter-attack. Partey was unable to track KDB and both Gabriel and Holding were retreating rather than pressing. Without Ramsdale’s heroics, this could have been a Newcastle score.

There was no cohesion in our play. We were unable to retain possession and vulnerable to their attacks. It’s illuminating that neither Grealish or Silva threatened us. They were just parked on the wings. And Gundogan just stayed locked in alongside Rodri denying us any space to create. Poor Odegaard was unable to exert any influence.

The good news was that we did not have to suffer Vieira coming on as a sub.

Once Jorginho joined Partey were started to gain some control of the game. By then though City were already on cruise control. But it was a distinct improvement with Jorginho and Trossard. And there was a nice little cameo from Nelson.

This was reality check though for us. This was the first big 6 game this season where we were truly outmatched, out played and out gunned. The fact that it was against the best team in Europe should provide some consolation. It’s just a shame we’ve had to play them just as we’ve lost our way; lost our form and lost our momentum. And lost Partey.

We are though still the second best team in the PL. And we remain way ahead of schedule. No-one, at the start of the season, imagined we’d finish second in the league. We had no confidence that we’d even qualify for the Champions League. The fear was another year in the NoHoppaLeague. We have to appreciate how far this team has come and how entertaining they have been. It’s heartbreaking though, that after being TOTL for so long, and enjoying our team for so long, it has to end like this. Such a tepid performance. After three other weak performances.

It does not matter how good City were, we lost this in the prior three games. In fact, just West Ham and Southampton. That would have given us 4 vital points. And, to win the league, you can’t drop points to teams like that. Winning at City is a hard ask but winning at home to Southampton, is what you’d expect from any team that expects to win the League.

Sure, there’s a chance that City might still drop points. But, who’d now bet on us picking ourselves off from the mat now? This is where we can show we’ve learned something from last seasons miserable end to the season. Tuesday we face the disaster that is LA Chelsea. As opposed to the master tactician Pep we’ll face the dunderhead that is Lampard. This is our chance to regain some rhythm and reset the team.

Arteta will be faces with a few decisions now. Does he retain Partey? Or start Jorghino against his old team – not that he’ll recognize any of their players (and not that they recognize each other). And does he find a way of starting Trossard?

I think we can reasonably assume at this point we won’t see our Big Willie again this season. I’m impressed that it’s taken this long for me to mention him. Maybe with him we could have withstood City for longer. This was not entirely Holdings fault (or even largely his fault). But it does demonstrate that as good as our team now is, we are still too exposed in certain positions.

We don’t have the squad depth to compete. And yet, at this stage of the season, we’re only in one competition. Now, we have finally made our way back into the Champions League where we will face the grown up big boys rather than random teams that we’ve never heard of, we’ll need some serious recruitment over the summer.

Wednesday reenforced the need for reinforcements in midfield. I don’t know that Rice is sufficient. We can’t rely on Partey. Neither in terms of performance nor in availability. He is just too injury prone. And (like all of us) he continues to get older. He’ll be 30 next season. And he’s no Casemiro.

It was refreshing to see Smith-Rowe but he barely contributed when he came on nor throughout the season. And Vieira is up there with other great signings like Gervinho, Pepe and Willian. So, like all of us, in order to survive and prosper next season, we’ll need more than Rice.

Arteta needs to find a way to get this team out of this funk so we can end the season, in second place, on a high. After conceding the title, it’s vital that we can regroup and reclaim our style and rhythm. The fans will remain supportive but with upcoming games against Brighton and Newcastle, we need to demonstrate we are not last years team and that we can finish with a flourish.

Writing this so many days after the pain of Wednesday is so much easier. The pain has somewhat subsided. I still can’t fathom the VAR non-offside. Nor the meekness of certain players. Hopefully Tuesday will go some way to rectifying this. This period can’t define our season. It’s so important to regain our momentum. I suspect it’s mostly mental at this stage. But, again, it’s the tactical genius of Lampard next. So that should give us some hope.

And in the meantime, I’ll continue to work with Edu to find those much needed players for our campaign next year.

So, for the last time this year, I’ll sign off and ask you to remember, until tomorrow, we’re still TOTL.

• LB7