Arsenal build-up thread

[Shaggy]

Might as well get it started...

Kolo Toure has stoked the fires ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League quarter final with Liverpool by suggesting The Reds will be running scared of Arsene Wenger’s men.

The Gunners beat Rafa Benitez’s men in three of their four meetings last season, and the pair are now readying themselves for three games against each other on the bounce.

The two-legged European tie is sandwiched by a league game at Emirates Stadium and although Toure is wary, he is confident Europe’s last four beckons for his team.

"It is an exciting tie," said Toure. "Last season we played them four times and we showed how strong we were - we beat them in three of those games.

"It is going to be really tight, we know that, but we have the quality and I think they will be scared to play against us.

"We need to show them that we have continued to improve and are even stronger than last season.

"We are used to playing against them, so we know we are in for a battle."

[Shaggy]

Nicked from RAWK's 'Spyin Kop' series...




How has your season been shaping up so far?

Clockwork Orange: Very good. Only 1 match lost in the League, still a title contender & in the CL quarterfinals.

Qs: Amazing really. I don't think many expected us to be where we are now.

James: I think the majority of gooners will agree with me when i say that i'm delighted with how our season has gone so far. In recent weeks our form has dwindled, particularly in the league. We have thrown away 8 points in the last 4 games, and seen our lead at the top of the table vanish. The next coming month is vital to how our season will end up. However, it's a complete contrast to how our season looked at this time last year when we had nothing to play for. We still have a brilliant chance to win two major trophies, and i think some people have forgotten that in recent weeks. We've played some brilliant football this season, and Arsène has built a fantastic side on a minimum budget in contrast to Manchester United, Chelsea and yourselves. The one problem is our lack of depth in certain areas, particularly out wide. His insistence in playing Diaby on the left wing in Rosicky's (prolonged) absence doesn't work, and some will argue that Eboue isn't a midfielder either. Alot of us also see Theo's future position up top, so its an area that needs strengthening. There's no question that our last match in this competition has been our performance of the season, and will rate up their as one of Arsenal's greatest ever European nights (we all know they've been limited. before it's mentioned). Our chances of advancing were questioned after the 0-0 draw with Milan at the Emirates, but it was a fantastic performance at the San Siro.

What were your expectations at the beginning of the season?

Clockwork Orange: I expected Henry leaving would turn out a blessing in disguise, thought we would finish top 3. Didn't expect us to win the League (but thought we had a chance).

Qs: My expectations were for a top 4 finish and to have a decent cup run.

James:I think expectations were mixed. A few fans, along with the media, really expected us to struggle for European qualification with the departure of Thierry. Apparently (like many previous years), this was the season that Tottenham finished above us.

I think our performance and position in the league has surpassed expectations amongst even the most optimistic of us. I think many of us would have liked to have seen the gap closed on the title chasers, but i don't think many imagined we would be serious contenders. The Champions League is a competition i think most would have predicted our chances to win was greater. In fact, i'd backed us at the beginning of the season. The hunger to win it is at its greatest, especially since Paris. It's about time this Arsenal side won the European Cup.

Have they changed from day one?

Clockwork Orange: Yep, we did better than I expected. We should now aim higher: win either the League or CL. Expect us to win or be very close to winning one.

Qs: Obviously our hopes have changed now, I wouldn't quite say I expect a trophy now but I definitely expect a good showing in both competitions.

Who have been your most important players?

Clockwork Orange: Gallas, Flamini, Cesc, Hleb & Ade

Qs: Flamini. Simple as that, yeah Fab, Ade, etc have all been great but Flamini makes the difference, he adds what we used to lack, that bit of graft. Sagnas been key too, his presence has sorted out our defensive problems.

James: It is difficult to pick individual players. The one unique thing about this Wenger side, and like it has been mentioned, that there is a greater emphasis than ever on a team performance. On paper, it could be argued that it is the weakest side we've had under Wenger, yet, they continue to play outstanding football.

Wenger has made one of the buys of the season in Bacary Sagna, and many believe he can go on to be one of our greatest ever right backs. Clichy has also been superb. I believe we have the best two full backs in the Premier League. Adebayor has also improved considerably this season in Henry's absence, and has shown he can become a fantastic striker. Nobody can doubt Fabregas' class either, and his goals from midfield (although they've dried up in recent months) are what this side has crying out for. However, Mathieu Flamini has been a revelation this season. Not many would have guessed that he would've made his way into our starting eleven, when it looked for certain he would leave last summer. For me, he's been our player of the season. Hopefully he shall sign before his contract expires this season.

Who have been your worst?

Clockwork Orange: Song, Diaby & Traore

Qs: IMO Diaby and Almunia. A better keeper and if we'd held onto Diarra and I think we'd have at least another 4 points right now.

James: I think many question whether Abou Diaby can make it at Arsenal. Personally, in August, i thought this was his season to really break into the Arsenal midfield. Flamini snapped up that chance however, and Diaby has played more games out of position on the left wing. Doubts surround Eboue as well, and i dont think many would be too sad to see him leave this summer for a good fee, given his attitude at times. His technique at times though is outstanding.

Any young up and coming players in the squad that we might not know about?

Clockwork Orange: Nacer Barazite

Qs: I think everyones pretty well up on our youngsters these days

James: There are many upcoming English youngsters that look outstanding in the reserves, and are beginning to push into the fringes and our Carling Cup side. Henri Lansbury, Mark Randall and Kieran Gibbs have all recently signed professional contracts and are hotly tipped to make the grade in the upcoming seasons. It's expected that Alexandre Song may appear alot more next season as well, after some very impressive performances at centre back in the Carling Cup, and after also having an outstanding African Cup of Nations for Cameroon.

What sort of line-up do you think will be put out against us?

Clockwork Orange: 4-5-1 / 4-4-1-1

Qs: As strong as possible in all 3 games, Walcott might start one or 2, Eboue too. Hopefully Rosicky will be fit by then but who knows?

James: In these sort of fixtures, Wenger always seems to opt for his 4-5-1 formation. However, with Robin Van Persie returning from injury, its questionable what line up he will go with. I imagine we shall see him feature up top with Adebayor in the home leg. The defence picks itself, although Senderos has been brilliant in recent months. I expect a midfield of Eboue, Fabregas, Flamini and Hleb, give or take any injuries.

Which Liverpool player will you fear the most?

Clockwork Orange: Babel, but only if he comes on as a sub. Don't rate him that high, but he's a very good supersub. Hope Sagna uses his brain & never allows him to cut inside & shoot (because that's the only thing he's really good at)

Qs: Torres, quality player. Hoping our pacey defence can match him though. Great player though, truly brilliant. Wish we'd signed him.

James:I think we would all say Fernando Torres. It doesn't take a football genius to know that he is in fantastic form at the moment, and will take any half a chance. He's the player Liverpool have needed. No one can deny the talent that Gerrard possesses either.

There has been a slip of form lately, worried?

Clockwork Orange: Nope, we had a midweek rest & now we'll be fresh for Chelsea, the 3 matches v Pool & the Mancs. Furthermore Van Persie is back.

Qs: Obviously, we've lost the advantage and United and Chelseas forms excellent. Squueky bum time as a dirty old scot would say.

James: I think the majority of us are more disappointed by the performances of late within the league. Many seem to think the league is now out of the question. It's a matter of fact as to who can win the crunch games, and a consistent run of form in these last 8 games. However, we need to start desperately picking up points, starting this sunday. We shall be hoping that you do us a favour at Old Trafford also. Our form doesn't appear to be a problem when the Champions League comes around, and is probably why many believe it is our priority this season.

Out of the 'big four', if you'd have anyone else win the premier league, who would it be?

Clockwork Orange: Everton.

Qs: Your lot, lesser of 3 evils

James: Liverpool, not through 'wanting' yous to win the league out of the three, but mainly because we couldn't stand to see Chelsea or Manchester United do it.

What would you rather win, Champions League or Premier League?

Clockwork Orange: CL. We'll win League titles for sure with this team. If not now, we'll win them in the future. Want to be the 1st London team to win the CL.

Qs: Tough question, I think the CL is still the holy grail but the Prem would prove more. If we win one I'll be happy whatever it is

James: Arsenal Football Club needs a European Cup amongst its honours. It's the only piece missing, and a fairly major piece. In recent years we've won the Premier League. I think whilst yous would rather win the league, as it's been 18 years now, we're in a similar position with the Champions League.

We would happily take our trophy back though with victories at Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford.

Do you have a particular memory of any previous meeting between our clubs? Say something that happened to you that day or a decision you disagreed with?

Clockwork Orange: Used to be more anti-Pool years ago, because you were about everybody's favourite English club in Holand in the 70s/80s, so I go for Michael Thomas 1989.

Qs: I remember Alonso annoyed me last season, he was very dirty and cynical, went down easy a few times too. It sticks out cause he's a player I like alot. A more positive memory is Henry devestating ye just after we'd lost a few games and been eliminated from the CL. And obviously Anfield 89 but I don't really remember it as am aware of it.

James: I think in recent seasons, our 2-1 win at Anfield with 10 men in the season we went unbeaten away sticks in my memory. Pires skinning Gerrard down the left, and Ljungberg sticking it away at the near post seen myself fall about 5 rows infront of where i was sitting. We've had some fantastic nights at Anfield, amidst some embarrassing scorelines also. The 3-0 win at the Emirates last season was also a highlight in a disappointing season.

Last Question; Care to predict the score?

Clockwork Orange: 2-1 to the Arsenal

Qs:We’ll win in Emirates and draw at Anfield.

James: Given how tight Liverpool usually perform away from home in Europe, particularly when playing away first, i really can't see yous scoring to be honest. Saying that, Torres is on fire at the moment. I do think we'll win the game however, and the second leg at Anfield is sure to be a tense affair.

1-0 to the Arsenal.

So that is the end of the Spyin’ Kop I’ve gotten done. Most of the Arsenal fans were men of few words, bar this James lad whom I added because he was the most in-depth. Had some trouble with the formatting, so if you could point out any problems with it I’ll happily edit. Tried to fix it up as much as possible.

[el matador]

i am not looking forward to this game if im honest.

[Jayesh87]

i am not looking forward to this game if im honest.

Same, although playing tennis with my gooner mate tomoz will get me in the mood

[Guest]

I think we're due a win over them soon. We've got enough quality in our ranks to dump them out, certainly in Europe where they won't be as cavaliers. The tie will be won or lost on Wednesday IMO, because Arsenal are certainly capable of pulling off something in the return leg.

This will be a tight affair. If we draw 1-1 (any score draw) this will benefit us.

[simey85]

Im not relishing this game they seem to enjoy playing us and "out-footballed" us at anfield this season if there is such a word. Im hoping our European reputation will put the **** up them!

[Marky]

I think we're goin out tbh lads but there will be no shame in it. They've got a few classier players where it matters and i think that will make the difference, simple as that.
It will be a tight affair and we'll give it a damn good shot but i just think Arsenal's extra bit of quality will prove decisive in the end.

[Dessy]

Utter bollocks........ LFC have the quality and game to overcome anyone in Euro Competition.

Arsenals quality not any better than ours and they have one of the dodgiest keepers in the prem!

Confident of victory.....a comfortable one at that!

[kop-al-74]

I think we're goin out tbh lads but there will be no shame in it. They've got a few classier players where it matters and i think that will make the difference, simple as that.
It will be a tight affair and we'll give it a damn good shot but i just think Arsenal's extra bit of quality will prove decisive in the end.

There's a surprise!

[Imy]

Don't care how we do it, but just want us to progress in the Champions League, i'd take two losses at their places as long as we win at Anfield and progress, in fact a score draw on Wednesday followed by a bore draw 0-0 in the 2nd leg would be cool also.

[El Jefecito]

If El Jefecito plays like this again. We'll win. Its amazing that this all from one game.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZyBYDVjS3E&feature=related

[leftpeg]

I'm feeling pretty confident myself.

[kop-al-74]

If El Jefecito plays like this again. We'll win. Its amazing that this all from one game.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZyBY...eature=related

I'm feeling pretty confident myself.

I do aswell.

Arsenal have ran out of steam and are probably the weakest of the English clubs left in it.

Rafa will have the upper hand on le voyeur!

[Asquith Wentworth-Rice]

Really looking forward to the game and putting their invidious manager to the sword. I believe we will win the game 0-1.

[Chris]

i am not looking forward to this game if im honest.

Completely baffles me when people say this, I can understand nerves, thats obvious but not looking forward to it? It's a champions league quarter final for crying out loud. Would you prefer it if we were out or were playing Luton in League one or something? These games should be appreciated.