Arsenal News 24/7Writer: Rocky7 
Date:Monday September 1 2008
Time: 11:11AM
UK time is: 00:21:32
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Clichy Proud Of Nasri, Wenger Isn't
Arsenal favorite, Gael Clichy has given his backing to new boy Samir Nasri after the Frenchman took revenge on Joey Barton for a particularly strong and pointless tackle, claiming he is proud of him.
Jailbird, Joey Barton, was sent on by Kevin Keegan for the final couple of minutes in Arsenal's 3-0 on Saturday evening, and despite the game already being over and Barton facing a lengthy ban at an FA hearing this week, Barton decided to show us all exactly what he is all about with a strong tackle on Nasri, followed with a slimy smirk.
Sami took exception to the tackle and moments later cynically tripped the scumbag. Clichy was proud of his actions.
'We know the guy,'
'He wanted to make something for his first game back and I don't want to talk about it but Samir did well and I'm proud of him.'
However on the flip side of the coin, manager Arsene Wenger condemned Nasri's actions saying players should remain focused on the game.
'I don't know if it's linked with that (Dabo),' said the Wenger
'It can always be an explanation, but not an excuse. You want to be controlled. I believe we should focus always on what is right in the game.'
'We do not want players doing that. Even if you're provoked, you have to control yourself.'
That was the right thing for Arsene to say but I bet privately Wenger laughed just as hard as the rest of the footballing world.
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Your Comments
I agree. I bet in secret Wenger is delighted with Nasri, and how physically and mentally strong he is. He won't be a pushover for anyone. Nasri seems to be cut from the same cloth as Sagna, as in he seems like he has settled straight in to the team and league effortlessly.
Bradys Chips
The attack by Barton on French player Dabo will have been covered quite widely in France. I am sure Nasri knew what he was doing just as Clichy took particular pride in nutmegging Barton. It could have been worse if he had been playing on Sagna's side of the pitch. It's unforgiveable of course and I can't condone Nasri's actions. In an Englishman it would be described as 'backbone' in a Frenchman it is petulance. Howver, I am sure the telling off Keegan gave him was given the consideration it deserved.
Amos.
Although we all laughed and thought it was great what Nasri did, I think Wenger knows too well that pointless bookings can come back and kick you in the backside! In the cold light of day it would have been nice to take the moral highground, and not get involved. However, if I was Samir, I think the least I would have done is trip the little s**t!
navydave
Even as i watch it now, i hardly see any contact. Nasri also looks like he is looking in the opposite direction. Could it of been an accident?
paul_ownz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwScltJ1hOA
paul_ownz
Worth pointing out that Gallas stepped in when Keegan was having a pop at Nasri. Had he stood by and done nothing, you can bet your life he would have been criticised. As it stands nobody has mentioned this. Quelle surprise.
Little Dutch
No LD, you can't say that! Its against the forum rules! ;-)
Tom14
I personally thought Nasri and RvP did equally well in that game. So is this the reason why Nasri just nicks it in the poll on the right side here? :D
Lou the Gunneress
Thanks for pointing that out, LD, that Gallas step in when Keegan was having a go at Narsi. I didnt know that, so top marks to Billy for that.
I agree with Wenger, a manager wants his players to focus on the game in hand, and doesn't need his players picking up yellow and red cards for silly reasons.
hackneyval
Nah in the long run it's beneficial that Nasri did what he did. If he took it lying down other teams would see him as a light touch. He is basically establishing himself as someone that will give back.
Gunners
Clichy is certainly not the only one who is proud of Nasri :). Clichy is probably my favourite Arsenal player - whenever the lad says something, you know it makes sense, as he has done a few times over the summer as well.
prits
An excellent signing. Should have been sent off, but lets face it we shouldn't be complaining as it was nice to see it happen to Barton.
Sam_Imp
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