Friday Round-up: Leeds Preview, Vela, The Signing I Forgot
66 comments January 7th, 2011
The Signing I Forgot
A few days ago I attempted a comprehensive round-up of all the activity I thought might happen in this January Transfer Window. In an oversight that questions my validity not only as a blogger and Arsenal fan but even as a human being, I managed to forget that we have actually signed someone. Properly.
Arsenal have signed Mr. Miyaichi. 18-year old winger Ryo will be joining as soon as he’d done playing in the All Japan High Soccer Tournament. Champions League it ain’t, but by all accounts he’s a very talented lad. Arsene says:
“I am delighted Ryo will be joining us in the New Year.
“He trialled with us in the summer and has raw ability which has attracted many clubs around the world.
“I look forward to helping him fulfil his potential here at Arsenal.â€
He’s also made the point elsewhere that it’s good to have the Asian continent represented at our club, and it’s hard to disagree with that.
For those who enjoy disproportionately hyping talents on the back of a few neatly edited highlights against low-grade opposition, here is the obligatory Youtube clip:
I particularly like that special trick where he makes a forcefield-like white ring appear around himself. Impressive.
Our other confirmed signing, Wellington Silva, will go to Spain on loan. Arsenal will then attempt to win him a work permit in the summer. Havard Nordtveit, meanwhile, has completed his move to Germany.
With the news that Thomas Vermaelen is beginning to run again, the likelihood of us bringing in anyone else is diminishing daily.
Vela on his way
In his press conference today, Arsene confirmed the club have received enquiries from ten different clubs about signing Vela on loan. His suitors are based in England, France, and Spain. Arsene says the main criteria in choosing his destination will be the guarantee of first football. I’d add a second: he has to be playing in England.
It’s hard to see past Bolton as a suitable destination: they play good football, and did a fine job with Jack Wilshere. Owen Coyle is a manager Arsene admires and trusts. Though Carlos might need a bit of convincing about the night-life…
The team to face Leeds…
…will be somewhat akin to our Carling Cup sides this term. Szczesny should replace the other Pole in the goal. Kieran Gibbs has been declared fit, so assuming no calamity befalls him between now and kick-off, should replace Gael Clichy. Emmanuel Eboue, meanwhile, will take over from the suspended and repentant Bacary Sagna. The centre-backs are harder to call, with Squillaci certain to play alongside one of Koscielny or Djourou: probably the former.
In midfield, there will be games for the likes of Denilson and Rosicky, whilst Bendtner, Chamakh and Arshavin will all hope for an opportunity to prove their first-team credentials upfront.
Leeds are a decent side with plenty of attacking gusto: 21 goals away from home already this season tells you they will give us some trouble. However, you’d expect our quality to make the difference eventually – especially at home.
Come On You Gunners!
