Barnet thoughts: Koscielny better bulk up, fast
380 comments July 17th, 2010
1st half XI: Fabianski; Nordtveit, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Traore; Frimpong, Wilshere, Rosicky (c); Emmanuel Thomas, Simpson, Arshavin
Goals (videos): Arshavin 2, Simpson 16, 42
In last year’s friendly against Barnet, Andrey Arshavin was knackered after just five minutes. With that knowledge in mind, he made sure to offer his most telling contribution after just ninety seconds. Slipped in by Tomas Rosicky, he dummied to shoot, sending the goalkeeper tumbling, before walking the ball in to the empty net.
It was the high-point of a performance that was typically mercurial. Barracked by Jack Wilshere for failing to track back one minute, he curled a sumptuous effort against the bar the next.
The bickering pair were the main creative force during the first half. For the second goal, a thundering Jay Emmanuel Thomas challenge started a move which ended with Wilshere cutting in from the right and laying on a simple chance for Jay Simpson – who, whilst somewhat one-dimensional, can finish.
Late in the half, Arshavin found a sprint which showed how quickly he can move when he fancies it. It took him half the length of the pitch, before playing in Wilshere, who tucked back for Simpson to tap in. The best goal of the day.
I was impressed by JET and Emmanuel Frimpong, who showed real enthusiasm and power. Frimpong played as a tough-tackling holding midfielder, whilst Emmanuel Thomas cut in from the right wing to great effect. If JET is ever going to make it at Arsenal, this is the season in which he has to make some impact. I hope he gets a run in the Carling Cup.
At the back Thomas Vermaelen was typically imperious, aside from one right-footed shot which drew applause for soaring right out of the ground. He played alongside Laurent Koscielny, who worries me. I don’t want to panic anyone, but he just does not look like the sort of centre-back we need. I remember watching Vermaelen for the first time in this fixture last year, and although he didn’t win every ball, his bravery, determination and athleticism were clear. Watching Koscielny, it was obvious why he called his “physical strength” his biggest weakness. He is about the same height as Vermaelen, but so much more wiry. His build and gait are akin to Mark Randall.
I’m not writing him off: this was a nothing game. I’m sure he’s a fine footballer. But as a physical type, I’d prefer to see Johan Djourou ahead of him in the pecking order. Or better yet, a gnarled, battle-hardened centre-half who knows this country and its challenges inside out.
2nd half XI: Mannone (Szczesny 68); Eastmond, Djourou, Miquel, Gibbs; Lansbury, Henderson, Nasri; Walcott, Chamakh, Barazite
Goals (video): Nasri 75
The second half was an altogether quieter affair – partly because Arsenal lacked the creative vibrancy of the first, but also because Barnet attempted to sit back and avoid embarrassment. That fate eluded defender Daniel Leach, who trod on the ball, allowing Samir Nasri to steal in and coolly finish for our fourth and final goal.
Nasri was busy in a central midfield role, linking well with Theo Walcott, who ought to have done better when set free behind the defence. That said, his speed and movement (odd to think of those as two different things) were impressive. Hopefully we’ll reap the benefits of his summer break.
Johan Djourou looked assured at the back, whilst Conor Henderson showed off some neat left-footed touches in midfield.
Vito Mannone and Woijech Szczesny shared the goalkeeping duties in this half. There was no sign of Manuel Almunia – Arsene apparently excused his absence on account of ‘illness’. I would buy it had I not heard the very same excuse used by Arsene before. I’m like a suspicious teacher, refusing to believe the dog has eaten his homework, again. My curiosity is only heightened by the fact that the other high profile absentee is also strongly linked with a move away from the club – Eduardo.
If Eduardo were to move on, it looks like we’ve found an able replacement in Marouane Chamakh. Tall, strong, and with the touch of a rapist so tender you wouldn’t know it was happening, Chamakh gives us a genuine alternative to RVP through the middle. It was 4-3-3 today, and he played that central link role to perfection. The reason Arsene is reluctant to play Nicklas Bendtner there is his retention of the ball isn’t quite good enough – the same, fortunately, could not be said for Chamakh. Excited to see more.
