Worthy of the Shirt

There have been many legends to have worn the red of Arsenal throughout the years, and how Arsene Wenger could do with one of those fighters in his current squad. Gunner's fans, some more recognisable than others, are taking to every social network site to express their concern for the London club.

With a realistic chance of going a seventh year without a trophy after dismal displays in the same week against AC Milan and Sunderland, Wenger must repair his squad in the summer. This includes getting rid of the deadwood who are unwilling to fight for the team and reinvest in exciting spirited players who can dig deep for a result when called upon.

On Twitter Piers Morgan highlighted the small amount of players at the Emirates who have heart, desire, hunger and passion. And his damning conclusion was that there were too few.

Above all else what the team is lacking in is leadership. Robin Van Persie may be an outstanding footballer but Arsenal desperately need a leader in the mould of Tony Adams or Patrick Vieira, to wear the captains armband. Someone who the younger players can look up to. The closest player to this at the Emirates is Thomas Vermalen, yet he is too often on the injury table. The way Steven Taylor plays for his beloved Newcastle is a prime example of what Arsenal are lacking. I am not suggesting that Wenger should bid for the Englishman as he is not the answer. However, I do believe signing a player who has a passion for the club itself is a must.

One thing that all previous Arsenal greats possessed was that they were true fans of The club. Patrick Vieira, Dennis Bergkamo and Martin Keown would sweat blood and tears to grind out three points. It was clear to see how much the north London club meant to another ex-Gunner when Thierry Henry returned last month. His sheer determination and passion for Arsenal was blatant from the moment he scored his match winning goal against Leeds in the FA Cup. The Frenchman erupted with emotion at the final whistle. Not because he had scored on his second debut, but because his side had won. It is hard to imagine the likes of Andrey Arshavin or Marouanne Chamakh reacting in that way. They are both decent players but they are not what this club needs to end its trophy drought.

There are many great players out there who should be considered to don the red shirt. Phil Jagielka, Yann M'VIla and Danielle De Rossi are just a few that would add an extra dimension to Arsenal's fluent attacking side. Though, it must not be forgotten that in the likes of Jack Wilshere, Alex Song and Emmanuel Frimpong Arsenal do possess young players with the ability to standup and be counted. Yet, more players willing to fight for the famous crest can turn this great team into a winning one. A small margin but a big difference.

Boxing Mad

As well as being "no angel" David Haye has also proved he is no dignified sportsman after his astonishing mindless brawl with fellow boxer Dereck Chisora. The outburst occurred during a Chisora press conference and ended with both fighters and the name of boxing tarnished in shame. After feeling he had been unnecessarily provoked, Haye took it upon himself to retaliate with a blast of crude insults and taunts.

Just days after the incident, Haye released a statement apologising for his actions. Yet, the former Heavy Weight World Champion believes the majority of the blame should be on his compatriot.

"Chisora began firing insults at me from his position on the top table. In fact, he has recently made a habit of saying derogatory things about me in the press.

"Moments before declaring he wanted to go face-to-face with me, he assured the gathered media that he would give me 'two slaps'."

It has also been revealed that Chisora was shockingly recorded repeatedly claiming that he will "shoot" the 31 year old.

In his statement, Haye added: "Chisora then climbed down from the top table, removed his robe and then walked towards me, entourage in tow, in an aggressive manner. I held my ground, but, unfortunately, he caused a serious disturbance to occur, something which threatened to damage the reputation of the sport we both love.

"I realise I am no angel — and don't mind a bit of professional trash-talk to help raise boxing's profile — but, during my 21 years in the sport, I have never been involved in, or even witnessed, such a serious fracas."

His defence of "holding his ground" has not been enough to prevent being charged by the police which is expected to happen this week.

The unprofessional scrap was captured on video and has already become a viral YouTube sensation. Furthermore, with both the fighters being British, the mêlée has added negative publicity in the build up to the London Olympics later this summer which will need amending.

With so many great British boxers in our history, it is shameful to see two overrated and pompous fighters show how little class they possess and how little respect they hold for the sport. It is also hard to imagine a boxing legend like the late great Henry Cooper performing like this. Perhaps, Haye and Chisora should remember that they are representatives for Great Britain outside of the ring as well as in it.

England Manager

English Football In Dismay

Fabio Capello's decision to resign as England manager has come as a shock considering its timing. With only five months until England compete in the European Championships, the Italians decision has left the FA in dismay and with very little time to resolve their latest dilemma, who to appoint to replace the 65 year old. Although he was the most successful England football manager in the last 17 years, Fabio Capello's reign in charge was thwarted by controversy. Publishing the 'Capello Index', where he assessed the performance of his players and the ongoing saga regarding the overhyped captaincy armband are just two topics that prevented a relationship blossoming between the England nation and himself.

The majority of the public believe an English replacement for Capello is what our country needs to fulfil it's potential on the pitch. Favourite to be approached by the FA first is Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp. Having recently been cleared of tax irregularities, the 64 year old is a superb candidate. Boasting an impressive managerial record with the likes of Southampton, Portsmouth and most recently Spurs, Redknapp has expressed his desire to one day take the hardest job in football and has stated that if he were approached it would be"hard to turn down". Yet, with his Tottenham side enjoying their best ever season in well over a decade it would be hard for the Londoner to leave.

Described as one of the best man managers in the game, Redknapps ability to control an egotistical squad is what previous England managers have lacked. Too often have the England team been treated as celebrities rather than sportsmen and have allowed their personal lives to interfere with their perpetration at tournaments. Even some of the most difficult players have been tamed by a quiet word in the ear from Redknapp, with the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor and William Gallas benefitting from their managers caring approach.

The FA has revealed that they intend to resolve this issue as swiftly as possible, yet it is a decision that must not be rushed. For the national team to succeed it needs stability. Current World champions Spain did not become the best footballing country in the world over night. For Vicente Del Bosque's side it was a long process that required patience and dedication. If the FA hope for England not to endure another tournament toiled by embarrassment, they must act wisely and listen to the demands of the public when making their choice. For me that choice is in the dugout at White Heart Lane.

Never Too Old

As 2012 began with astonishing come backs and a magical FA Cup third round, it was a joy to see some romance returning to the beautiful game. Players such as Paul Scholes, Thierry Henry and Robbie Keane all proving you are never too old and that the passion for football certainly doesn't diminish with age.

It is a common sight for footballers to appear on the front pages of newspapers as well as back pages, which has tarnished the sports reputation and credibility. Too often these sportsmen are treated as celebrities rather than professionals, creating egotistical personalities and spoilt minds. So when a sense of positivity is found it should rightly be celebrated, as should seeing a player playing for the love of the game rather than his bank account.

Henry's 'dream' second debut against Leeds in the FA Cup was a reminder that not all footballers play for the pound sign. That there are still some role models out there. The Frenchman was full of emotion after his match winning performance and has been overwhelmed with the reaction that he has received since crossing the pond to return to London. This fairy tale story was the perfect antidote for a season spoilt with racism claims, controversial refereeing decisions and managerial sackings.

Also rolling back the years was England's favourite football competition the FA Cup. This historic piece of silver wear has produced some magnificent and unforgettable moments over the past century. Yet, the clash of Manchester United and City in this seasons third round will surely go down as one of the most entertaining games in the cups history. A match expected to be full of talking points, it did not disappoint. Being 3-0 behind at half time and down to 10 men, Manchester City were unlucky to lose 3-2, almost completing a historic come back.

Welcome to Manchester

The FA Cup has long been known to change the fortunes of clubs and create victorious heroes. So it was rare this afternoon when the losing team left the pitch with credibility and respect from the neutral spectators. Manchester City may not be retaining the Cup this year but their defeated 10 man team were applauded for their heroic loss to rivals Manchester United in the third round.

3-0 up at half time and a man to the good, Alex Ferguson’s men assumed the game was beyond City’s reach and took their foot off the pedal in the second half. This complacency allowed a spirited home side to claw their way back into contention and almost pull off an amazing comeback. Mancini’s defensive tactics he has learnt from his time in Italy were put to good use as City held a strict shape and refused to be broken down. Micah Richards wore his heart as well as the captains’ armband on his sleeve following Kompany’s controversial red card and was instrumental in Manchester City’s fight back. It is still a mystery why he is not in the England set-up. Surely Fabio Capello can only ignore him for so long. Possessing great enthusiasm, technique and stature, Richards is becoming one of the most accomplished full-backs in the Premier League. Goals from Kolarov and Aguero pulled City back into the game and provided a frantic finish. As the rain poured down inside the Etihad Stadium late on so did the City pressure. Some last ditch United defending ensured passage into the next round and temporary bragging rights.

Roberto Mancini’s sympathy and frustration could both be seen in his astonishing post-match interview. Failing to come to terms with the harsh sending off of Vincent Kompany and full of pride for his other 10 warrior’s, Mancini struggled to answer the questions put to him. Possibly wary of facing punishment for criticising Chris Foy’s refereeing decisions, Mancini hesitated answering whether he thought the sending off was a correct decision and even eventually responded by asking the interviewer for his opinion. This defeat does not crown United as the best team in Manchester but does act as a reminder for City that they are not yet invincible.

The rise of the blue moon may have been sudden in comparison to Europe’s other elite clubs, yet Manchester City are fast becoming a dominant side in football and show no signs of stopping. Highly likely to add to their riches in January, City are creating a team that can match the best teams in Europe. However, there have been other days like today this season for Manchester City where they have been undone by attacking teams such as Napoli and Bayern Munich, but it must be remembered that a team takes time to be a champion. Mancini must be given this time if City are to become the dominant force in Manchester. United have the history, whereas City are making it.

Title race could Re-Open After January Closes

Due to the improving force of Roberto’s Mancini’s City and Alex Fergusons team’s consistency, it appears more than likely that come May the Premier League trophy will be heading to Manchester. It is often said that a title cannot be won in December but it can certainly be lost. However, with all of the top five looking to spend in the January transfer window, the three trailing London clubs are looking to the New Year as a chance to recover their season’s ambitions.

Fourth placed Chelsea have been early to publicly identify their transfer targets ahead of the January sales. With Andre Villas-Boas hoping to offload some deadwood in his team, new recruitments are a necessity. Alex, Malouda and Ferreira are all looking for a new club and could join Anelka (who has already agreed to join Shanghai Shenhua) out the exit door. Although these players are surplus to requirements, their positions will need to be refilled swiftly. Bolton’s Gary Cahill and Juventus’ Milos Krasic have been approached and both look likely to sign. Completing the signature of Cahill would be a massive boost to Chelsea, with all four of their title challengers interested in the England international. With Didier Drogba and Saloman Kalou both departing for the African Cup of Nations in January, Villas-Boas’ side will be lacking in creative talent. Krasic, who has recently fallen out of favour at current club Juventus, would be an astute signing, valued at around £7m. The Serbian who can play on either flank will allow Daniel Sturridge with a chance to impress in his favoured centre forward role. Furthermore, Fernando Torres will be given the opportunity to prove his worth and rediscover his confidence and form during the African’s absences.

Another team needing to reinvest in attacking positions are Arsenal. Arsene Wenger’s team have been heavily reliant on captain Robin van Persie for goals this season and seem to lack a player who can share this burden. Arsenal’s second top scorer this season is Theo Walcott with four goals, though he has scored a mere fifth of the amount van Persie has netted. Marouane Chamakh and Andrey Arshavin have both been largely disappointing since impressive starts to their careers in London and could both leave in the summer. With new signing’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Chu-Young Park yet to be fit enough to demand a run in the first team, Wenger may dip into the transfer market targeting loan signings. Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has been mentioned as a possible target on a two month loan deal as has Wayne Bridge to temporarily ease Arsenal’s troubles at fullback. It is unsure whether Henry, who trained with Arsenal earlier this month to maintain his fitness, would be willing to accept this offer as he is wary of jeopardising his legendary status at the club. Wenger is clearly considering bringing in the prolific Frenchman, having recently stated that Henry could still perform successfully in the Premier League after being impressed with him in training. Still adored by the Arsenal fans, there would be delight amongst the stands if Henry were to return. Wenger has however recently ruled out a move for Bridge who is deemed not good enough to meet the standards of a top Premier League team.

London’s highest placed team, Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to invest heavily to keep their fantasy season going. After losing heavily in both of their first games to Manchester City and Manchester United respectively it was expected that Spurs would endure a difficult season and could be replaced in the top six by the re-emergence of Liverpool. However, Harry Redknapp’s side have defied early critics to produce some dazzling football and be placed third in the table, and the Manchester clubs nearest challengers. This remarkable run of form saw the London club win ten of their next 12 games, drawing the other two. Now serious title contenders, Redknapp will look to bolster his squad to maintain a threat at the top of the table. High priorities include a world class striker to assist Emmanuel Adebayor upfront. Jermain Defoe’s recent lack of form has forced Tottenham to explore other alternatives. Villarreal’s Giuseppe Rossi is greatly admired by Redknapp who was unsuccessful in bringing the Italian to White Heart Lane in the summer. Another bid could be launched but would need to exceed the £30m mark. Other targets include Internacional’s Leandro Damiao and Athletic Bilbao’s Fernando Llorente.

With the top three teams trailing the Manchester giants hoping to acquire strikers in January and add steel to their backlines, they will hope that the transfer dealings will pay dividend. An apparent two horse race could soon become a Grand National and make for an exciting spring before an eventful summer.

125 Years of The Arsenal

For over a decade The Arsenal have been entertaining audiences in England and have produced some of the most successful teams in English football as well as great individual talents. They are a club that I have religiously supported my entire life and this weekend they celebrate their 125^th anniversary. To mark the occasion, three statues of Arsenal legends were unveiled outside the Emirates Stadium by chairman Peter Hill-wood. The three icons being paid tribute to were Herbert Chapman, one of the most influential people in English football and hugely successful as Arsenal manager, Tony Adams, Arsenals most successful captain, and Thierry Henry, the clubs record leading goal scorer and fans favourite. Watching Henry’s emotional speech after receiving his recognition was a great moment for Arsenal to see just how much the club means to people. It is clear that Thierry Henry has fallen in love with the club and whilst holding back the tears declared, “Once a Gooner, always a Gooner”.

Although being a Gooner can at times become extremely difficult when a squad full of dynamism and talent fail to achieve the success their play warrants, they are a team who I love and will always follow. It is often said that true supporter can be found during a club’s turmoil. I am frequently reminded in the press that The Arsenal have not won a trophy for 6 years, yet my passion for my team has not diminished. Since the move to the Emirates Stadium in 2006, The Arsenal’s supporters have grown in volume and are slowly turning this modern piece of architecture into an intimidating force. Although it may not have the same feel that other stadiums such as Anfield or St James’ park possess, the Emirates is starting to feel like home.

As for the trophy drought, manager Arsene Wenger has once again moulded an exciting attacking team mixed with youth and experience that can realistically challenge for trophies other than the League Cup. In the summer transfer window, Wenger was claimed to have acted somewhat uncharacteristically by signing players of an older age range to what he is normally custom. However, he has never sacrificed his football philosophy and continues to believe that beautiful football is the best kind. An experienced signing like Mikel Arteta may bring some authority into the centre of the midfield but he also adds creativity and skill. Even Arsenals most robust midfielder, Alex Song, possesses good technical ability and a few nifty tricks to beat his opponent.

As well as having attacking players with flair in the likes of Gervinho, Wilshere and Van Persie, Wenger’s squad also boast an intimidating defence. It is an area that has often left the London club being able to fulfil their potential, yet with some summer signings, returns from injury and the emergence of a talented goalkeeper Arsenal look a commanding force at the back. In goal Wojciech Szczęsny has established himself as number one and one of the most talented young goalkeepers in Europe. At last Arsenal have found a replacement for Jens Lehman. Furthermore, new signing Per Mertesacker is beginning to form a good understanding with Thomas Vermaelen. Vermaelen has recently returned from a lengthy ankle injury and is the focal point of Arsenals back line.

This weekend marks a great occasion for everyone associated with the club and I am proud to be an Arsenal follower and am excited for what the future holds for my team. As Thierry would say, once a Gooner…