Arsenal News 24/7Writer: Amos 
Date:Wednesday April 1 2009
Time: 10:32AM
UK time is: 01:53:18
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It's all going well for Gibbs
Kieran Gibbs has been getting a lot of good press lately with a feature in the club magazine and regular updates on the club`s website. The latest features comments from the England U-20 manager, Noel Blake, who says of him:
"We played Kieran at left back in the past and he did really well. We have tended to use him more centrally, in central midfield, and he has done very well for us.
"We don`t have any qualms playing him at left back, left midfield or even off the front, he is a talented footballer and, when we look at the balance of the squad, we utilise where we think it is right.
"He is technically very, very good in possession of the ball, he has a fabulous engine and he`s a good team player. He has the ability to go past people and, overall, he is a very good footballer."
Gibbs played the full 90 minutes as the U20`s played Italy last night in a game they won 2 - 0. He had also played the 2nd half for the England U21`s in their 5-0 win against Norway at the weekend.
It has been something of a breakthrough season for the left sided product of the academy. He has appeared regularly for the club at left back in both league cup and FA cup competitions making 7 starts in total plus 3 sub appearances in both premier league and champions league games.
His appearance as a 17 year old in the inaugural Emirates Cup competition against Inter Milan in 2007 earned plaudits for his performance as a left midfielder with Justin Hoyte playing left full back behind him. He had also played in central midfield in the reserves but since then he has been groomed as a left back in which position he also played in this season`s Emirates Cup against Juventus.
He seems a strong quick and intelligent player. The understandable positional difficulties inherent in any young player are something he seems to have got a grip on and has made notable improvement. In particular against premiership competition in the shape of Wigan and Hull in this season`s cup games.
Having signed a new contract at the beginning of the season the 19 year old already seems established as Clichy`s understudy though the fact that Gael is barely 4 years older may limit his opportunities over the next few seasons. For the time being though the demands of playing in 4 competitions should enable his present ambitions to be met satisfactorily.
Clichy himself has acknowledged that Gibbs is capable of providing competition having seen him at close quarters in training and is impressed by the teenager.
"It has been a positive - Kieran has played well,' Clichy said in a matchday programme last month.
"When you train with the first team you always push on so it's good for everyone."
Of all the current academy products Gibbs looks closest to the first team. The progress he has made this year and recognition at U21 international level should help build his confidence and convince him that he has a good future at the club.
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Your Comments
The boy is great..the most advanced youngster in the team. Much better than Clichy was at his age. The question now is what happens to Traore now? He was doing pretty well too. I can't see Gibbs being dropped as second choice for Traore...he has earned his position in the team
number14
The boy is great..the most advanced youngster in the team. Much better than Clichy was at his age. The question now is what happens to Traore now? He was doing pretty well too. I can't see Gibbs being dropped as second choice for Traore...he has earned his position in the team
number14
I think Wenger's ploy was always to let Traorse get some game time, then bring Gibbs in in his place and evaluate at the end of the season which will be first choice for the back up left back role. Traore has played mainly on the wing for Pompey and probably hasn't done quite enough to suggest he is Arsenal quality. In the meantime, Silvestre's experience on the training ground will also be of value to Gibbs and Clichy. He was a good player once.
Little Dutch
I think Wenger's ploy was always to let Traorse get some game time, then bring Gibbs in in his place and evaluate at the end of the season which will be first choice for the back up left back role. Traore has played mainly on the wing for Pompey and probably hasn't done quite enough to suggest he is Arsenal quality. In the meantime, Silvestre's experience on the training ground will also be of value to Gibbs and Clichy. He was a good player once.
Little Dutch
I think we'll see Traore as a winger when he comes back. Gibbs might go out on loan again next year.
navydave
I think we'll see Traore as a winger when he comes back. Gibbs might go out on loan again next year.
navydave
I do hope Gibbs does not go out on loan, the lad must be almost if not on the edge of the first team. It would be of advantage to have him rotate in mid season with Clichy when we have games in mid week. If we can manage to take some of the pressure of the first team members and make people earn their place in the first team knowing that someone is on their shoulder. Might keep the niggling injuries down me thinks.
alwaysgunner
I do hope Gibbs does not go out on loan, the lad must be almost if not on the edge of the first team. It would be of advantage to have him rotate in mid season with Clichy when we have games in mid week. If we can manage to take some of the pressure of the first team members and make people earn their place in the first team knowing that someone is on their shoulder. Might keep the niggling injuries down me thinks.
alwaysgunner
About 2 months ago i called that Gibbs wouldn't make it at Arsenal before being shot down quite comprehensively (was ale induced mind) and how i've regretted saying that, he's gone from strength to strength and i can genuinely see Arsenal quality in the boy, be superb if he could keep pressing Cliche, who seems to be getting back a bit of form after not being very good for a whole season!
shewore
About 2 months ago i called that Gibbs wouldn't make it at Arsenal before being shot down quite comprehensively (was ale induced mind) and how i've regretted saying that, he's gone from strength to strength and i can genuinely see Arsenal quality in the boy, be superb if he could keep pressing Cliche, who seems to be getting back a bit of form after not being very good for a whole season!
shewore
Good progress by Gibbs this season. His positional sense is much better than Traore, although it needs more improvement to become Premiership standards consistently, so Gibbs would get the nod ahead of Traore. Traore would be good back up for LM, and we can see where he goes from there. Even though he might not do well for Pompey, we know that youngsters sometimes are only as good as their team mates and Traore might be suffering as a result of that. With Botelho coming in the summer, it will be great competition for places and should keep Clichy on his toes.
prits
Good progress by Gibbs this season. His positional sense is much better than Traore, although it needs more improvement to become Premiership standards consistently, so Gibbs would get the nod ahead of Traore. Traore would be good back up for LM, and we can see where he goes from there. Even though he might not do well for Pompey, we know that youngsters sometimes are only as good as their team mates and Traore might be suffering as a result of that. With Botelho coming in the summer, it will be great competition for places and should keep Clichy on his toes.
prits
Traore currently looks surplus to our needs. I wouldn't be at all surprised to see him move on in the summer. Gibbs looks to have the better all round game.
Amos.
Traore currently looks surplus to our needs. I wouldn't be at all surprised to see him move on in the summer. Gibbs looks to have the better all round game.
Amos.
I would hate for Traore to move on. He does seem surplus though...but he was really looking good last season. It would be a huge mistake to send out Gibbs on loan..he definitely should be pressed into a fulltime backup for Clichy..especially for CC/FA cup ties...the lad has a future...we seem to have a very bright future ahead with all the youngsters coming through. If only they could all develop a la Gibbs and have the patience and discipline to make it at Arsenal.
number14
I would hate for Traore to move on. He does seem surplus though...but he was really looking good last season. It would be a huge mistake to send out Gibbs on loan..he definitely should be pressed into a fulltime backup for Clichy..especially for CC/FA cup ties...the lad has a future...we seem to have a very bright future ahead with all the youngsters coming through. If only they could all develop a la Gibbs and have the patience and discipline to make it at Arsenal.
number14
Under Wenger we have always produced or got hold of good leftbacks. Cole, Clichy, Gibbs, Traore, Silvinho.
paul_ownz
Under Wenger we have always produced or got hold of good leftbacks. Cole, Clichy, Gibbs, Traore, Silvinho.
paul_ownz
Nelson Vivas!
navydave
Nelson Vivas!
navydave
Gibbs doesnt need another loan. The boy is already playing like clichy!!! Hes only 19! He will only get better with arsenals first team and as a back up for clichy.
49ers
Gibbs doesnt need another loan. The boy is already playing like clichy!!! Hes only 19! He will only get better with arsenals first team and as a back up for clichy.
49ers
About Troare not looking Arsenal quality at Pompey, whilst I agree, do you think that Gibbs, perhaps even Clichy, would look Arsenal quality at Pompey? Maybe Clichy would, but I don't think we are in a proper position to make comparisons with Kieran and Armand. One only plays sporadically, and the other plays for a team of less quality than the other. Wenger has some difficult decisions to make at left back, especially considering Pedro Botelho has been performing well for Salamanca.
ArsenalRob
About Troare not looking Arsenal quality at Pompey, whilst I agree, do you think that Gibbs, perhaps even Clichy, would look Arsenal quality at Pompey? Maybe Clichy would, but I don't think we are in a proper position to make comparisons with Kieran and Armand. One only plays sporadically, and the other plays for a team of less quality than the other. Wenger has some difficult decisions to make at left back, especially considering Pedro Botelho has been performing well for Salamanca.
ArsenalRob
*Not saying that Pedro is in for much of a shout of getting ahead of any of them, but he needs a spot at least in the reserves.
ArsenalRob
*Not saying that Pedro is in for much of a shout of getting ahead of any of them, but he needs a spot at least in the reserves.
ArsenalRob
I think when AW loans a player to another club, he looks to them to be outstanding for that club, to obviously be a cut above his team mates. For instance, Cole at Palace and Bendtner at Birmingham were so obviously leagues ahead. Ditto Vela, who made a big impact at Salamanca and was clearly going to be too good for that level. Traore has not really shown that and doesn't get in the side ahead of Belhadj.
Little Dutch
I think when AW loans a player to another club, he looks to them to be outstanding for that club, to obviously be a cut above his team mates. For instance, Cole at Palace and Bendtner at Birmingham were so obviously leagues ahead. Ditto Vela, who made a big impact at Salamanca and was clearly going to be too good for that level. Traore has not really shown that and doesn't get in the side ahead of Belhadj.
Little Dutch
I caught the England-France U21 game yesterday. Traore played. France won 2-0. The French were superb and Traore was one of their best players. Here's a brief report: http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/football/Classy-French-sink-England39s-under21s.5127284.jp
jaelle
I caught the England-France U21 game yesterday. Traore played. France won 2-0. The French were superb and Traore was one of their best players. Here's a brief report: http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/football/Classy-French-sink-England39s-under21s.5127284.jp
jaelle
Fair enough LD, although of course Bendtner and Vela were in second tier football. Even so, would Gibbs get into the Portsmouth side ahead of Belhadj? Personally I don't think so.
ArsenalRob
Fair enough LD, although of course Bendtner and Vela were in second tier football. Even so, would Gibbs get into the Portsmouth side ahead of Belhadj? Personally I don't think so.
ArsenalRob
I still remember how Gibbs tackled Marco Materazzi of all people in that Emirates Cup game and I thought to myself, wow this boy's really unfazed and quite special! Almost 2 years on, I've now been comfortable seeing him in the team sheet when Clichy has needed a rest especially in the domestic cup games. Traore did well enough in LW but he went backwards after Kranjcar came back from injury and after their managerial changes. Not sure how that might have affected the boy. But as Jaelle said - I also watched the England-France U21 game - he was good and showed the glimpses of promise that we had seen earlier. But in terms of all-round game, I agree with Amos, Gibbs is ahead of Traore. I still can't say Traore is surplus just yet, I'd like these boys and Vela to fight it out on the left wing, as Nasri/Clichy's backups. Maybe their versatility (Vela LW/striker, Traore and Gibbs LW/LB) could justify their places as squad players next year in AW's eyes.
GoonerLou
Jaelle, that level of football is nearly worse than League 1 or 2. If Traore plays poorly for an under-21's team, we would have serious doubts.
Tom14
I still remember how Gibbs tackled Marco Materazzi of all people in that Emirates Cup game and I thought to myself, wow this boy's really unfazed and quite special! Almost 2 years on, I've now been comfortable seeing him in the team sheet when Clichy has needed a rest especially in the domestic cup games. Traore did well enough in LW but he went backwards after Kranjcar came back from injury and after their managerial changes. Not sure how that might have affected the boy. But as Jaelle said - I also watched the England-France U21 game - he was good and showed the glimpses of promise that we had seen earlier. But in terms of all-round game, I agree with Amos, Gibbs is ahead of Traore. I still can't say Traore is surplus just yet, I'd like these boys and Vela to fight it out on the left wing, as Nasri/Clichy's backups. Maybe their versatility (Vela LW/striker, Traore and Gibbs LW/LB) could justify their places as squad players next year in AW's eyes.
GoonerLou
Jaelle, that level of football is nearly worse than League 1 or 2. If Traore plays poorly for an under-21's team, we would have serious doubts.
Tom14
Tom, my post was not necessarily a defense of Traore, just wanted to point that game out. Not sure why you trash youth int'l games (do you say the same about our youth reserve games?) since so many wonderful players started there and went on to be big names. Nasri, Benzema and Ben Arfa all won the U17 European championship together -- seems to me they're pretty good players today. Cesc won the player of the tournament award at the 2003 U17 world cup, he turned out ok, didn't he? On the other hand Pato was terrible at the U21 world cup 2 years ago, but he's doing very well with Milan. Anyway, I agree entirely with the article and that Traore's future with us is in doubt. Don't know why he hasn't done well at Pompey. Might be he's just not good enuf, might be the troubled season they have with the changeover in management. I'd like him to succeed with us but if he doesn't, good luck to him. I like the kid's attitude and think he can go on to be a good player.
jaelle
Tom, my post was not necessarily a defense of Traore, just wanted to point that game out. Not sure why you trash youth int'l games (do you say the same about our youth reserve games?) since so many wonderful players started there and went on to be big names. Nasri, Benzema and Ben Arfa all won the U17 European championship together -- seems to me they're pretty good players today. Cesc won the player of the tournament award at the 2003 U17 world cup, he turned out ok, didn't he? On the other hand Pato was terrible at the U21 world cup 2 years ago, but he's doing very well with Milan. Anyway, I agree entirely with the article and that Traore's future with us is in doubt. Don't know why he hasn't done well at Pompey. Might be he's just not good enuf, might be the troubled season they have with the changeover in management. I'd like him to succeed with us but if he doesn't, good luck to him. I like the kid's attitude and think he can go on to be a good player.
jaelle
Lou, I LOVED Gibbs' fearless tackle on Matterazzi! That tackle alone made him totally win my heart! :-)
jaelle
Lou, I LOVED Gibbs' fearless tackle on Matterazzi! That tackle alone made him totally win my heart! :-)
jaelle
Reserve games are at a rubbish level. It showcases the best in Youth and International level, but the competition is poor.
Tom14
Reserve games are at a rubbish level. It showcases the best in Youth and International level, but the competition is poor.
Tom14
Whatever, Tom, but I was struck by the result of that game because England's U21 team have been on a long unbeaten record, and this defeat by a really classy French youth side (so unlike their older counterparts) was a rare defeat for Pearce.
jaelle
Whatever, Tom, but I was struck by the result of that game because England's U21 team have been on a long unbeaten record, and this defeat by a really classy French youth side (so unlike their older counterparts) was a rare defeat for Pearce.
jaelle
It's all going well for Eduardo, nice to see him on the scoresheet for Croatia.
ArsenalRob
It's all going well for Eduardo, nice to see him on the scoresheet for Croatia.
ArsenalRob
So Bendtner's on the bench, Ramsey and Fabianski are starting, good news for those three!
TPowell
So Bendtner's on the bench, Ramsey and Fabianski are starting, good news for those three!
TPowell
Sagna's winning over the French public, too. Andre-Pierre Gignac looks like a good talent.
ArsenalRob
Sagna's winning over the French public, too. Andre-Pierre Gignac looks like a good talent.
ArsenalRob
I just saw a Lithuanian player deliberately try to take out Sagna's ankle, it was pretty vicious and Sagna went down in serious pain. And the Bavarians are totally right: Ribery is f---ing GOD!
jaelle
I just saw a Lithuanian player deliberately try to take out Sagna's ankle, it was pretty vicious and Sagna went down in serious pain. And the Bavarians are totally right: Ribery is f---ing GOD!
jaelle
Yeah Jaelle, and that one came just before Ribery got kicked deliberately from behind too! The ref is, surprise surprise, Coward Webb. Yes Gignac is looking good, and good-looking!
GoonerLou
I take back everything I said about France-Lithuania -- Ribery's been just wonderful to watch.
jaelle
Yeah Jaelle, and that one came just before Ribery got kicked deliberately from behind too! The ref is, surprise surprise, Coward Webb. Yes Gignac is looking good, and good-looking!
GoonerLou
I take back everything I said about France-Lithuania -- Ribery's been just wonderful to watch.
jaelle
I also loved that bit from the commentator: "Lassana Diarra's 4-0 trick at 1-0" lol
GoonerLou
I also loved that bit from the commentator: "Lassana Diarra's 4-0 trick at 1-0" lol
GoonerLou
Hey Lou -- Webb has been awful, per usual! Yeah, Ribery was on the end of several bad challenges. Both Gignac and Gourcuff are very nice on the eyes, Lou. :-) Well, game's over. France move up to 2nd place in their group. I hope Sagna's ok.
jaelle
Hey Lou -- Webb has been awful, per usual! Yeah, Ribery was on the end of several bad challenges. Both Gignac and Gourcuff are very nice on the eyes, Lou. :-) Well, game's over. France move up to 2nd place in their group. I hope Sagna's ok.
jaelle
Yeah, Ribery, despite looking like Frankenstein, was rediculously good, although I'm not sure about him taking all the set-pieces. He showed more pace than I remembered him having, and he uses it very, very intelligently. I don't like seeing Thierry play like that though, he's just not the same player. He's lost his arrogance, and that's what made him superior.
ArsenalRob
Yeah, Ribery, despite looking like Frankenstein, was rediculously good, although I'm not sure about him taking all the set-pieces. He showed more pace than I remembered him having, and he uses it very, very intelligently. I don't like seeing Thierry play like that though, he's just not the same player. He's lost his arrogance, and that's what made him superior.
ArsenalRob
Glad to see Edu back and scoring for Croatia too. Hope Bendtner's ok as he came on as a sub in the 1st half, so I guess he's coming back okay. Did you guys watch the Turkey-Spain game? Turkey were very strong but lost in both legs. Spain have extended their winning streak to 11 games, unbeaten in 31 - the armada invincible!!
GoonerLou
Glad to see Edu back and scoring for Croatia too. Hope Bendtner's ok as he came on as a sub in the 1st half, so I guess he's coming back okay. Did you guys watch the Turkey-Spain game? Turkey were very strong but lost in both legs. Spain have extended their winning streak to 11 games, unbeaten in 31 - the armada invincible!!
GoonerLou
I think Sagna seemed ok.
ArsenalRob
Thought you guys would like to read some really interesting Arsenal-related interviews from FOURFOURTWO magazine (some of them a bit dated but still interesting reads):
CESC: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/webexclusives/170/article.aspx
CESC: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/qanda/33/article.aspx
VIEIRA: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/webexclusives/177/article.aspx
THEO: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/qanda/164/article.aspx
THEO: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/boysabitspecial/166/article.aspx
HENRY: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/one-on-one/91/article.aspx
ARSENE: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/one-on-one/92/article.aspx
ARMAND TRAORE: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/boysabitspecial/18/article.aspx
FABRICE MUAMBA: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/boysabitspecial/126/article.aspx
The two interviews with Cesc and Theo each are not duplicates.
jaelle
I think Sagna seemed ok.
ArsenalRob
Thought you guys would like to read some really interesting Arsenal-related interviews from FOURFOURTWO magazine (some of them a bit dated but still interesting reads):
CESC: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/webexclusives/170/article.aspx
CESC: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/qanda/33/article.aspx
VIEIRA: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/webexclusives/177/article.aspx
THEO: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/qanda/164/article.aspx
THEO: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/boysabitspecial/166/article.aspx
HENRY: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/one-on-one/91/article.aspx
ARSENE: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/one-on-one/92/article.aspx
ARMAND TRAORE: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/boysabitspecial/18/article.aspx
FABRICE MUAMBA: http://fourfourtwo.com/interviews/boysabitspecial/126/article.aspx
The two interviews with Cesc and Theo each are not duplicates.
jaelle
Ribery (like the entire French team, and like Arsenal) is not good at set pieces. Great to hear about Eduardo and Croatia, I caught only the last few minutes of that game on livestream. I recorded the Turkey-Spain game at home to watch later because I really love both teams. Hope Bendtner's ok, I don't like the manager using him in the game at all so soon after his injury.
jaelle
Haha yeah Jaelle, Gourcuff I discovered on the Milan bench, struck me as a mini-Kaka both in terms of his tricks and his face at the time. But it's the first time I've seen Gignac. They're both the Kaka type! :D
GoonerLou
Ribery (like the entire French team, and like Arsenal) is not good at set pieces. Great to hear about Eduardo and Croatia, I caught only the last few minutes of that game on livestream. I recorded the Turkey-Spain game at home to watch later because I really love both teams. Hope Bendtner's ok, I don't like the manager using him in the game at all so soon after his injury.
jaelle
Haha yeah Jaelle, Gourcuff I discovered on the Milan bench, struck me as a mini-Kaka both in terms of his tricks and his face at the time. But it's the first time I've seen Gignac. They're both the Kaka type! :D
GoonerLou
England being so boring, I have been a Spain supporter for quite a few years (i can't call my self a fan, as such), they are beautiful to watch, and are a model international team really, consistent, and are winning playing good football. Iniesta has to be one of the world's best midfielders, should be even more recognized.
ArsenalRob
Oops sorry I spoiled it. It seems that nobody followed England, which I've recorded for dad, so don't tell me the result hehe.
GoonerLou
England being so boring, I have been a Spain supporter for quite a few years (i can't call my self a fan, as such), they are beautiful to watch, and are a model international team really, consistent, and are winning playing good football. Iniesta has to be one of the world's best midfielders, should be even more recognized.
ArsenalRob
Oops sorry I spoiled it. It seems that nobody followed England, which I've recorded for dad, so don't tell me the result hehe.
GoonerLou
Rob, Iniesta's just amazing. During his recent injury, Barca struggled. Spain actually didn't play very well in last weekend's game v. Turkey. But for any footie fan, I think they're always worth watching.
jaelle
Rob, Iniesta's just amazing. During his recent injury, Barca struggled. Spain actually didn't play very well in last weekend's game v. Turkey. But for any footie fan, I think they're always worth watching.
jaelle
Yeah Rob I'm a bit of a part-time Spain fan too. The interesting thing's that against Turkey, who kept pressing and passed and counter-attacked well, Spain did struggle to find a way through. But they always stayed patient and confident and always found a goal towards the end. Torres had a tough time as the lone striker in the 2nd leg too - reminds me of what Klinsmann said about him during the Euros: he's a great young player who'll become one of the best strikers in the world, but I wouldn't envy the Torres 3 years from now as his ability would mean he gets over-used as a lone stiker and gets kicked and injured like hell. Prophetic words there.
GoonerLou
Yeah Rob I'm a bit of a part-time Spain fan too. The interesting thing's that against Turkey, who kept pressing and passed and counter-attacked well, Spain did struggle to find a way through. But they always stayed patient and confident and always found a goal towards the end. Torres had a tough time as the lone striker in the 2nd leg too - reminds me of what Klinsmann said about him during the Euros: he's a great young player who'll become one of the best strikers in the world, but I wouldn't envy the Torres 3 years from now as his ability would mean he gets over-used as a lone stiker and gets kicked and injured like hell. Prophetic words there.
GoonerLou
Argentina lost 5-1 to Bolivia, I know it's a difficult place to play, being so high up, but surely that's still a bit below par!?
ArsenalRob
Argentina lost 5-1 to Bolivia, I know it's a difficult place to play, being so high up, but surely that's still a bit below par!?
ArsenalRob
Are you kidding? Hadn't heard that, Rob! OMG! It's true Bolivia's not easy to go to but 5-1? That is below par. Brazil always struggle when they go to high altitude Ecuador and Bolivia, which is why they drew 1-1 v. Ecuador on Sunday in Guayaquil. Just glad it was a draw and not a loss. Wow, the knives will be out for Maradona.
jaelle
Are you kidding? Hadn't heard that, Rob! OMG! It's true Bolivia's not easy to go to but 5-1? That is below par. Brazil always struggle when they go to high altitude Ecuador and Bolivia, which is why they drew 1-1 v. Ecuador on Sunday in Guayaquil. Just glad it was a draw and not a loss. Wow, the knives will be out for Maradona.
jaelle
Someone was just saying (on radio or podcast, don't remember) that Argentina could well be the team to challenge Spain as the best team in the world a few days ago! lol
GoonerLou
Someone was just saying (on radio or podcast, don't remember) that Argentina could well be the team to challenge Spain as the best team in the world a few days ago! lol
GoonerLou
Well I actually agree with that, I do think Argentina has the talent and have been hoping they do well at the 2010 wc. But qualifying campaigns don't always coincide with tournament performances, so don't write off the Argies yet. Brazil barely qualified for the 2002 wc and went onto win it. France barely qualified for the 2000 Euros and went onto win it. Spain wasn't even on the radar before the 2008 Euros, it was all about Germany.
jaelle
Well I actually agree with that, I do think Argentina has the talent and have been hoping they do well at the 2010 wc. But qualifying campaigns don't always coincide with tournament performances, so don't write off the Argies yet. Brazil barely qualified for the 2002 wc and went onto win it. France barely qualified for the 2000 Euros and went onto win it. Spain wasn't even on the radar before the 2008 Euros, it was all about Germany.
jaelle
Well not that many people care about San Marino I guess, but Fabianski kept a clean sheet for Poland and won 10-0. :)
GoonerLou
Well not that many people care about San Marino I guess, but Fabianski kept a clean sheet for Poland and won 10-0. :)
GoonerLou
OMG, I just checked out some Brazilian websites: the score was actually 6-1 to the Bolivians v. Argentina! That's just incredible, it makes no sense!
jaelle
OMG, I just checked out some Brazilian websites: the score was actually 6-1 to the Bolivians v. Argentina! That's just incredible, it makes no sense!
jaelle
Yeah, jaelle, they were pretty lucky from what I've seen, too. Baptista's goal was more than a bit fortunate, and Ecuador seemed to create more chances. Lou, I would've agreed with them, they were superb against Venezuela.
ArsenalRob
Yeah, jaelle, they were pretty lucky from what I've seen, too. Baptista's goal was more than a bit fortunate, and Ecuador seemed to create more chances. Lou, I would've agreed with them, they were superb against Venezuela.
ArsenalRob
Lou, are you pulling our leg? 10-0??? Is that an April fool joke? I expected them to win of course but 10-0??? I've also just read on globo.com that Bolivia's mauling of the Argies is Argentina's worst result in their entire history. I don't say this with any pleasure, I like Argentina.
jaelle
Lou, are you pulling our leg? 10-0??? Is that an April fool joke? I expected them to win of course but 10-0??? I've also just read on globo.com that Bolivia's mauling of the Argies is Argentina's worst result in their entire history. I don't say this with any pleasure, I like Argentina.
jaelle
I can't fault that statement either, Argentina are indeed brilliant. I personally think the 3 form teams are Spain, Argentina and Holland right now. But you know, as Jaelle rightly pointed out, that doesn't mean they'll go on and win the big cup next year. I personally wouldn't write off the unpredictable but incredibly hard to beat Germans!
GoonerLou
I can't fault that statement either, Argentina are indeed brilliant. I personally think the 3 form teams are Spain, Argentina and Holland right now. But you know, as Jaelle rightly pointed out, that doesn't mean they'll go on and win the big cup next year. I personally wouldn't write off the unpredictable but incredibly hard to beat Germans!
GoonerLou
6? I think we can count that result as a one-off. Argentina are still quality, although they're defence is a bit shaky. Just feel the need to state the extremely well documented here, but Messi is the greatest player I've seen bar Zidane. Has anyone seen much of Pablo Aimar recently? I used to like him, I know he still plays for Zaragoza, but he just seems to have dissapeared... injuries?
ArsenalRob
6? I think we can count that result as a one-off. Argentina are still quality, although they're defence is a bit shaky. Just feel the need to state the extremely well documented here, but Messi is the greatest player I've seen bar Zidane. Has anyone seen much of Pablo Aimar recently? I used to like him, I know he still plays for Zaragoza, but he just seems to have dissapeared... injuries?
ArsenalRob
Too right, Rob -- Ecuador totally dominated Brazil in that game, Baptista's goal was pure luck. (Baptista actually does that often for Brazil, he comes up with important goals for the NT, it's why Dunga keeps him in the NT; he scored the first goal in our Copa America win, which really demoralized Argentina). But that's what Ecuador always do to Brazil and Argentina (and other teams) who visit them. They're a good attacking side with a decent defense, and the altitude always helps them. (Bolivia's much weaker than they are). During the 2006 wc qualifying campaign, Ecuador beat both Brazil and Argentina very comfortably. // Remember that video of Capello on an Italian TV show with a model in a bikini dancing for him? Well, they've gone and done it again, this time with Mourinho: http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Futebol/0,,MUL1068282-9842,00-FOTOS+JOSE+MOURINHO+GANHA+DANCA+SENSUAL+DURANTE+PROGRAMA+DE+TV.html
jaelle
Good choice of teams Lou, they're the only 3 international teams I like? France would be close if Domenech wasn't in charge.
ArsenalRob
No April fool joke - it's already 2nd April here! lol Boruc had a blunder and cost them a draw in the last game, Fabi got a chance in this easy game against San Marino. I've seen it on Sky Sports and here: http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/index.html -> click on the red bar that says "MatchCast". No kidding!
GoonerLou
Too right, Rob -- Ecuador totally dominated Brazil in that game, Baptista's goal was pure luck. (Baptista actually does that often for Brazil, he comes up with important goals for the NT, it's why Dunga keeps him in the NT; he scored the first goal in our Copa America win, which really demoralized Argentina). But that's what Ecuador always do to Brazil and Argentina (and other teams) who visit them. They're a good attacking side with a decent defense, and the altitude always helps them. (Bolivia's much weaker than they are). During the 2006 wc qualifying campaign, Ecuador beat both Brazil and Argentina very comfortably. // Remember that video of Capello on an Italian TV show with a model in a bikini dancing for him? Well, they've gone and done it again, this time with Mourinho: http://globoesporte.globo.com/Esportes/Noticias/Futebol/0,,MUL1068282-9842,00-FOTOS+JOSE+MOURINHO+GANHA+DANCA+SENSUAL+DURANTE+PROGRAMA+DE+TV.html
jaelle
Good choice of teams Lou, they're the only 3 international teams I like? France would be close if Domenech wasn't in charge.
ArsenalRob
No April fool joke - it's already 2nd April here! lol Boruc had a blunder and cost them a draw in the last game, Fabi got a chance in this easy game against San Marino. I've seen it on Sky Sports and here: http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/index.html -> click on the red bar that says "MatchCast". No kidding!
GoonerLou
I'm right with you again on Messi, Rob, no question. Beyond his beautiful football, what I like about him esp. is his attitude on the pitch and his team work, his generosity with his teammates (so different from Cronaldo). // Aimar is with Benfica nowadays and has put in only a few appearances due to injuries. He's been riddled with injuries and illness (meningitis) in the last few years. Maradona once called him the only legitimate successor to his title as world's best player. He's only just now beginning to recover and has looked good in his last couple of appearances.
jaelle
I'm right with you again on Messi, Rob, no question. Beyond his beautiful football, what I like about him esp. is his attitude on the pitch and his team work, his generosity with his teammates (so different from Cronaldo). // Aimar is with Benfica nowadays and has put in only a few appearances due to injuries. He's been riddled with injuries and illness (meningitis) in the last few years. Maradona once called him the only legitimate successor to his title as world's best player. He's only just now beginning to recover and has looked good in his last couple of appearances.
jaelle
Lou, I just saw the article on globo about Poland's mauling of SMarino. I knew Fabianski would play because of Boruc's awful performance blunders. What a scoreline!
jaelle
Lou, I just saw the article on globo about Poland's mauling of SMarino. I knew Fabianski would play because of Boruc's awful performance blunders. What a scoreline!
jaelle
Rob, Domenech suffocates the wonderful talents of his players, it makes me sick to watch it. But I continue to follow the team anyway.
jaelle
Rob, Domenech suffocates the wonderful talents of his players, it makes me sick to watch it. But I continue to follow the team anyway.
jaelle
Gibbs has played very well this season, imo he should be in the 1st team now, and not go out on loan anymore.
As for the international glad to see Eduardo on the score sheet, and I hope all the lads make it back injury free.
hackneyval
Gibbs has played very well this season, imo he should be in the 1st team now, and not go out on loan anymore.
As for the international glad to see Eduardo on the score sheet, and I hope all the lads make it back injury free.
hackneyval
I think teams like Liechenstein, San Marino, Luxemburg, Andora, malta, faroe islands, azerbaijan, moldova and armenia should have to play a pre tournament before getting in to the qualifiers. Only 1 of them should get it. They get thumped in most matches and just waste time. Instead of 9 groups of 6 just do 9 groups of 5 and have a more competative format with less games.
paul_ownz
I think teams like Liechenstein, San Marino, Luxemburg, Andora, malta, faroe islands, azerbaijan, moldova and armenia should have to play a pre tournament before getting in to the qualifiers. Only 1 of them should get it. They get thumped in most matches and just waste time. Instead of 9 groups of 6 just do 9 groups of 5 and have a more competative format with less games.
paul_ownz
Armand Traore wants to develop and succeed with Arsenal, I'm all for having him and Gibbs fight it out next year: http://www.setanta.com/uk/Articles/Football/2009/04/02/Exclusive-Traore-on-future/gnid-46806/
GoonerLou
Armand Traore wants to develop and succeed with Arsenal, I'm all for having him and Gibbs fight it out next year: http://www.setanta.com/uk/Articles/Football/2009/04/02/Exclusive-Traore-on-future/gnid-46806/
GoonerLou
Gibbs played well for England U20 in the CM role, setting up one of the two goals that dispatched the young Italians: http://youngguns.wordpress.com/2009/04/01/wilshere-back-training-gibbs-england-assist/
GoonerLou
Gibbs played well for England U20 in the CM role, setting up one of the two goals that dispatched the young Italians: http://youngguns.wordpress.com/2009/04/01/wilshere-back-training-gibbs-england-assist/
GoonerLou
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