The clock on the stadium is counting down
92 comments August 21st, 2010
It never feels like a season has really started until we play our first home game. Today we face Blackpool, and despite their impressive start, only a win will be good enough.
Manuel Almunia will start in goal despite Arsene’s refusal to quell speculation about his intention to bring in a replacement:
“It has been unsettling. It is a very sensitive subject which is difficult for me to talk about.
You can understand that he is unsettled by that situation but on the other hand, when you play at Arsenal, that’s what you have to deal with. You have to be strong enough to deal with that and I believe he is.”
Whilst it’s obvious to all and sundry that Arsenal are trying to bring Mark Schwarzer in, Fulham’s claim that we’re “unsettling” the player is absurd. As Arsene points out in that article, we have never commented on our interest. For now, however, Almunia will continue. Let’s hope he’s not too distracted by his impending displacement.
At the back, Johan Djourou will come in for the suspended Laurent Koscielny to join Sagna, Vermaelen and Clichy. Whilst we’re on the defence, Arsene admitted we were looking at Sebastien Squillaci, though suggested the deal was in its infancy.
In midfield, the big news is the return to the squad of Cesc Fabregas. Alex Song is also available, and both could start alongside Abou Diaby.
I expect Robin van Persie to begin on the bench again, with Marouane Chamakh joined upfront by Andrey Arshavin and Theo Walcott. However, after his impressive cameo last week, Tomas Rosicky will be pushing for a starting spot.
It’s a Saturday 3pm kickoff, and we’ll be wearing red shirts with white sleeves.
The East Stand is Back.
The West Stand is Back.
The Clock End, with accompanying clock, is Back.
The North Bank is Back.
Come On You Gunners.
