Watch Goals: Tottenham 3 - 3 Arsenal

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If it wasn't for Manchester United's draw yesterday, then the race may be up already for Arsenal, who failed yet again to take advantage of United's slip up. It was a pulsating game, and with three goals inside the first 12 minutes it was a game for the neutrals - a typical North London derby between the two sides then.

Manchester United and Manchester City will be pleased with the draw mostly - it doesn't change very much in terms of the League table, with Spurs unable to draw level on points with City who stay fourth. United are now 6 points clear at the top - but the team behind is now Chelsea, who beat Birmingham 3 - 1, with Fernando Torres once again failing to score.

Arsenal went 3 - 1 ahead in the first half, but it should be no surprise that they let that lead go considering this season's mis-haps including losing a four goal lead to Newcastle. Against Liverpool Arsenal scored late on and conceded immediately after. Now, against Tottenham, they scored early on through Walcott and conceded just a minute later. The defending was poor, and Arsenal must improve. However, Wenger refused to rule his side out of the title race:

 "It's not over. We'll fight."

"Our mental strength is outstanding. We have faced criticism but this team deserves much more." 

"I didn't see any fail in our attitude, in our determination, in our quality. We just dropped physically in the second half." 

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Video: Arsenal Target Gokhan Inler

In the last few weeks Arsenal have been linked to both Yann M'Vila and Yannick Djalo, and now, talkSPORT have reported that Arsene Wenger may spend £8 million on the Swiss midfielder, Gokhan Inler. The 26 year-old currently plays for the Seria A side Udinese, but speculation has been rife in Italy about his future at the club.

He has been watched by several Premier League clubs since his move to Napoli in 2007 including Liverpool, as Roy Hodgson believed he could replace Javier Mascherano in Liverpool's central midfield before the Englishman's departure. Inler plays in a similar area to Mascherano - a deep lying position just ahead of the defenders, and it is this kind of player that several Arsenal blogs have been suggesting Arsenal buy to guard the defence.

Inler has scored 3 goals this season, one of which was a stunning strike from long range against Napoli as you can see below. However, you may notice the lack of celebration and joy in the players face. Some said that this was a sign of Inler's growing disinterest in playing for Udinese, but the player cleared this speculation up:

"I have many friends in Switzerland who are Napoli supporters and they asked me not to score. Out of respect to them, I responded that way." 

"My heart is black and white and I think I proved that with my performance against Napoli. 

"I'm sorry if I offended anyone, as it was not my intention. Once I got back to the locker room, I shouted my joy and embraced my team-mates.

"My future has absolutely not been decided and I haven't signed for another club."

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Fabregas & Szczesny Contradict Wenger

Arsene Wenger is undoubtedly an excellent manager, he has been a big success at Arsenal and is a man of great knowledge and huge managerial talent. But when he recently claimed that coming second in the League is not a "disaster" - implying that his club would be happy with second place, it prompted more than a few raised eyebrows. Wenger is a winner, you can see from his reactions when his side loses, or suffer a bad result that he oozes the passion to win, however, defending his sides performances and position in the League when supporters have been waiting 6 years for a trophy is not the way to go to appease those fans.

I agree to an extent with what Wenger said; yes, there are 18 other teams in the League who would love to be in Arsenal's position, yes there are clubs all over the world that would give anything to be in the Champions League every year, and yes, every club would love to be in a comfortable financial position. But when fans have been waiting so long for any silverware, and the manager, some say does not buy enough big name players or spend enough money, it mus become frustrating.

Now Fabregas, who was in Arsenal's 'invincible' side of 2003/04 knows what it is like to win a trophy at Arsenal. The majority of Arsenal players currently at the club, do not, and the Arsenal captain has seen this situation coming for a while. He made some very intriguing and valid points too, especially as his manager only recently defended the clubs position on the issues he raises:

 “That the team are always in the Champions League, that we compete until the end, that we have young players, economic stability – for the board this is important. 

“But I imagine there will be a moment when you have to decide do you win things or not? 
The ‘Invincibles’ team (of 2003-4) is the best I have played in. 

“Now a lot has changed. From 2007 on I started to say, ‘We don’t win but we play very well’. After that you realise it doesn’t work. You enjoy it, during a part of the season, like this year, when we were in four competitions. 

“You say, ‘Here I have it all’. But then you cannot make the fi nal step and a decision has to be made – to go out to win or to develop players. But I imagine there will be a moment when you have to decide do you win things or not?"

"From 2007 on I started to say, ‘We don’t win but we play very well'. After that you realise it doesn’t work. You enjoy it, during a part of the season, like this year, when we were in four competitions.

“You say, ‘Here I have it all’. But then you cannot make the final step and a decision has to be made – to go out to win or to develop players.” 

These are genuine concerns from a player who has seen, and captained a side full to the brim with talent, yet unable to bring trophies home. It is sad really, that one of the greatest players of his generation may prove unable to bring Arsenal glory in the form of prestigious trophies.

When Arsenal's performances force their website to have to publish headlines like:

"Gunners let half-time lead slip in London derby on Saturday."

"Gunners lose ground after letting a four-goal lead slip."

"Last-minute mix-up ends Gunners' hopes of glory at Wembley."

It is a shame as the squad is full of talent, but, as their manager implies, their position isn't bad enough for supporters to complain or criticize. Arsenal's goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny agrees with his captain; he wants to win, and is not happy with settling with second place:

 "We are only thinking about winning the title, not who is behind us.

"We go into everything to finish first. We are Arsenal - we don't want to finish second and we definitely don't want to finish third. We just think about winning."

This is the right attitude to have, and Arsenal and their manager must have it when going into their game against Tottenham. It is crucial that they make the most of Manchester United's minor slip-up against Newcastle. Arsenal must win against their local rivals Tottenham to keep the pressure on United, because if they don't, quite frankly, they don't deserve to finish first. It will be a season of missed opportunities, avoidable slip-ups and unfortunate incidents that define Arsenal's season rather than trophies. This isn't what any Arsenal fans want, and it is surely not what Wenger wants.

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Video: Newcastle v Man Utd Match Analysis & Highlights

Manchester United were slowed in their chase for the Premier League title with a goalless draw to Newcastle. In a fixture which usually splurges goals, it was surprising to see such a lack of them in a game which Newcastle started very well indeed, putting pressure immediately onto the United defence with excellent chances falling to Peter Lovenkrands several times only for him to waste them. United responded with an attack involving Chicharito and Rooney, but when the latter broke into the box after a lucky bounce, it was hit well over and the chance was of course gone.

United never really got into the pace - their pace, and although in the second half were not challenged very much in defence, were not greatly effective going forward either. Ryan Giggs spurned the best opportunity, as can seen above when a ball pulled back was hit agonisingly wide by the United veteran. It was the best chance of the game, and on another day, the Welshman would have seen it hit the back of the net, but unfortunately for him and United's title charge, to was not one of those days.

There were a couple of penalty appeals too. Firstly Nani went down in the first half, with no real contact on him. To be fair he didn't really appeal, probably through guilt for going down in the first place, but it isn't good to see. Then Lovenkrands was caught by Anderson in the box, with real contact, but nothing was given, much to the strikers frustration. United had another appeal turned down when Chiek Tiote raised his arms when a shot came at him in the box, and the final one in the last few minutes saw Chicharito fall under a challenge in the box. Lee Probert blew his whistle, and for a second United fans' eyes were wide open in anticipation. But a penalty was not given, rather a yellow card for Chicharito for simulation.

United are still on course for their 19th title, but will have their nervousness levels raised if Arsenal win against local rivals Tottenham on Wednesday. With Arsenal still to play at the Emirates, and Chelsea to play at Old Trafford, the way the title goes is well in United's hands. Maximum points will be United's target, but today's performance must be improved to do so.

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Good Response Is Vital to Win League

Neither Arsenal nor Manchester United enjoyed good results over the week end. United lost to local rivals City in the FA Cup Semi-final, and, although Arsenal didn't lose, it must have felt like a loss with the equalising penalty so late on in the game for Liverpool. Both results were crushing. Players' morale will have taken a blow, but it is who recovers first, and gets up from the low blows they have been dealt who are most likely to win the League. A quick recovery is crucial.

United are now favourites to win their 19th League title after Arsenal's week-end draw, with Sir Alex Ferguson's side 6 points clear at the top, but the Scot knows that any slip up could be capitalized on by Wenger's side. It is still a tight battle, and a battle either could yet win. Arsenal however will have to win every remaining game to stand a chance, and they must start with beating their local rivals Tottenham on Wednesday. If they lose or draw this game, it is surely over, but if they win, it keeps the heat on United, who they are yet to play.

United play on Tuesday against Newcastle at Saint James' Park. The atmosphere will be loud and tense, but with Rooney back, United will be favourites. The English striker is back from his FA ban for the swearing incident, and will be eager to make an impact after watching his side crash out of the FA Cup in great animation on the sidelines. United will hope he is bursting with goals - goals which will propel United further away from Arsenal, and closer to lifting the Premier League trophy.

Sir Alex has been here before, and he knows the huge importance of the Newcastle game:

"Going to Newcastle is the most important game we have coming up because the league is still our first priority. The Premier League and the Champions League are the two priorities at this club.

"The players had a big adrenaline surge for the semi-final with Manchester City but we need to win on Tuesday. And that's why Newcastle and the home game with Everton next Saturday are vital - after that there are only four games left and then we go to Arsenal the following week.

"So it's absolutely crucial for us and I think everybody knows when you go to Newcastle you have to deal with the atmosphere up there. They have fantastic supporters and you know they will be on your backs."

This game is vital in the Premier League race, and it is all about picking the players up and getting on with the job. There is a danger that some players may be mentally and physically drained because of the adrenaline of the Cup game, but with United's strength in depth, this should not be a problem.

Arsenal on the other hand do face a massive test against Tottenham, who, as the clubs local rivals, would love to rub salt in the wounds of the Gunners whilst moving closer to the Champions League places. It should not be forgotten that this is also a must win game for Tottenham, as their exploits in Europe this season have shown, they need the prestigious competition to keep their top players such as Bale and Van der Vaart at the club whilst using it as a valuable asset to attract top players to the club.

A good response to a bad result is vital, and whichever team wins the three points in the next few days will certainly have a better chance of winning the League. But anything can happen in football.

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Wenger is Too Stubborn for His Own Good

What did we learn from Arsenal's draw against Liverpool? No much more than we have seen already from Arsenal and Arsene Wenger. Despite having some fantastic attacking talent in Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri and Jack Wilshere - two of which are in the team of the year, they ran out of ideas in the final third, and few clear cut chances were created for a goal scoring opportunity. The best came late on to Robin van Persie, who was thwarted by Liverpool's reliable goalkeeper, Reina - another troubling position that Wenger has been slow to deal with.

We all love Arsenal's play - so many mention it, so many praise their style, so many applaud the passing of the ball and the quick attacking play, but it often gets Arsenal nowhere. In other words, it isn't as effective as Wenger believes it to be. Arsenal must invest in a clinical striker, one that will settle down well in England quickly, and one that is not prone to injuries. Manchester United found one for £6 million in Javier Hernandez, so Wenger doesn't need to break the bank. A free transfer for Chamakh hasn't worked, van Persie has suffered persistent injuries, and Bendtner shows up when he wants to, but blows his own trumpet as loud as anything.

When the whole squad is fit, Arsenal can form a brilliant team, a side which would give any team a real go, and often come out on top. The problem - the problem that Wenger is ignorant to - is that at some point, players will have injuries. In Arsenal's case, a lot of injuries, and with top players out for a long time such as Thomas Vermaelen, as well as injuries which costs players months out like Djourou, van Persie, Szczesny and so on, they are often left with a weak, untested team, playing against a largely fit, capable side. The strength in depth is not there.

Look at Manchester United. Vidic and Ferdinand are the starting centre backs, but if one of them is to suffer an injury, there are plenty of players available to step in. There is Wes Brown - not the greatest, but strong and experienced and ready to step in, Chris Smalling, not the most experienced, but certainly proving capable and reliable, and Jonny Evans, again, not the greatest, but certainly able against tough opposition.

On the other hand, Arsenal had Vermaelen out for the whole season, and were left with only three first team central defenders, two of which are in their debut season; Koscielny and Squillaci - and the latter has not settled in England very well at all and therefore not having the trust from the rest of the team. Then when Djourou suffered a dislocated shoulder - more woe, more problems, and a far weaker back line.

His reluctance to spend has been both praised and criticized by Arsenal fans, but it has cost Arsenal trophies this season. Again. A side with a solid back line, with at least three injury free, top class central defenders, a clinical striker, and a midfield who knew when to pull the trigger, would not have lost the Carling Cup Final to Birmingham City. 

Wenger sticks to what he believes in. He is strong minded, and, because of this, is often delusional - for example not accepting that the penalty Eboue conceded against Liverpool was a foul or worthy of a penalty kick. He will not spend money, which has, and will continue to cost Arsenal trophies. It is good that he is passionate and believes clearly about what he wants, but a man once said "never let your persistence and passion turn into stubbornness and ignorance." 

Wenger must improve his squad this summer, he must not be afraid to dip into the transfer window to add to his team, and with the new billionaire majority shareholder, he surely now has no excuses. He doesn't need to spend the amount Manchester City or Chelsea have, but he needs to spend enough to buy decent back-up for his team. 

Wenger needs his, and Arsenal's priorities sorted. Does he want a trophy at Arsenal or not? Because if he does, he must listen to the concerns of fans, and spend some money or face having to change his whole team set-up. Arsenal will fall behind the pack next season otherwise.

Video: Arsenal 1 - 1 Liverpool - The Penalties

What a finish. A Jamie Carragher injury during the second half saw the injury time soar to 8 minutes, and in the 97th minute, Arsenal won a penalty. It looked to be all over. It looked as if Arsenal would take the points and draw closer to Manchester United at the top of the table. Everyone in the stadium must have thought Arsenal had the win in their pockets when Jay Spearing, who had a fantastic game brought down Fabregas.

For a few minutes, they had that all important goal. But it seems that Emmanuel Eboue - not the sharpest tool in the box at the best of times, felt some sympathy for both Liverpool and Jay Spearing, and, after a free-kick was deflected into the box, he recklessly brought down Lucas. He brought him down in the 102nd minute. 

Wenger was furious, Dalglish was delighted, and the Arsenal fans were positively deflated by yet another League disappointment. Six points adrift of Manchester United, Arsenal have really let this race slip

Arsenal Want Djalo But No New Goalkeeper

Arsenal face Liverpool today in what is a massive game for Wenger's side as they try to close the gap on Manchester United at the top of the Premier League table. Arsenal will therefore be coming up against the goalkeeper that they tried to sign a couple of transfer windows ago, Pepe Reina.

However, that was before Wojciech Szczesny appeared as a solid figure between the white sticks at the Emirates. He has, Wenger believes, turned into a potential number 1 goalkeeper, and, now recovered from the dislocated finger he suffered against Barcelona in the Champions League, he will be out to prove it against Liverpool:

"Szczesny he has the calibre to be a goalkeeper at Arsenal Football Club and we have Fabianski as well."

"Szczesny has the potential [to be No 1]. It will be a fight because Fabianski will be back. We still have Almunia too, he has one year to go [on his contract].

"We can always in mid-season call Jens Lehmann back!" 

From that then, we can take that Wenger will not be delving into the transfer window to purchase a new goalkeeper, as he has all he needs already at the club. From Szczesny's performances this season, that is understandable. Aside from the defensive mishap in the Carling Cup final, he has been blunder free - something his team mates and rivals, Fabianski and Almunia, cannot boast.

Wenger's comments also seems to spell an end to Manuel Almunia's Arsenal career. No mention of the Spanish goalkeeper and Arsenal's fans huge general mistrust in him are not promising signs, and with the two Polish youngsters and a possible Lehmann return, he won't be getting many games next season anyway.

But according to some reports, Arsenal will try to improve their team further up the pitch with the signing of Yannick Djalo.

The 24 year-old Portuguese forward currently plays for Sporting Lisbon and has attracted attention from various clubs including Everton, but Arsenal are apparently favourites to sign Djalo who can operate both as a winger and a striker.

Djalo possesses blistering pace and has a strong physical presence, making over 80 appearances for Sporting, scoring 20 goals. Sporting will therefore be expecting to make £8 million for the player who has appeared once for Portugal so far.

Szczesny to Start As Fans Turn Against Almunia

Arsenal's very promising goalkeeper Wojciech Sczcesny will start against Liverpool for the first time since he dislocated his finger in the Champions League loss at the hands of Barcelona. The 20 year-old has made a swift recovery since his injury in early March, and has returned quicker than expected, as he was initially thought to be out until the end of April.

The Polish 'keeper will celebrate his 21st birthday on the 18th of this month, which he will hope to celebrate in good spirits after a win at the Emirates to a Liverpool side who travel on the back of thrashing a poor Manchester City by three goals to nothing.

Jens Lehmann had to step in for the Blackpool game last week, due to a knee injury to Almunia in the warm up. Almunia's injury came to the apparent relief of the majority of Arsenal fans who voted on my poll issued just after the Blackpool game on who they would rather in the Arsenal goal for the remainder of the season:

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said:

"Szczesny will play. It's a big surprise for us because we thought his season was over. But he was given the green light four weeks after the Barcelona game and he has had a full week of training.

"Jens wants to help out when needed and he knows the rule. I want to congratulate him on the game he played."

Now Arsenal Want £15 million Yann M'Vila

He has been tracked for some time by both Manchester United and Liverpool, but now, the Rennes defensive midfielder is being linked to a £15 million move to Arsenal.

The 20 year old midfielder is highly thought of in France, and teams all over Europe have been said to be watching him in the hope of acquiring his services.

Back in January, the Frenchman, who has been described as a player who possesses "excellent defensive abilities" and "impressive physical strength" said:

"Manchester United is the club of my dreams. It's a very prestigious club and I dream to play for them."

However, some sources claim that Arsenal have sent scouts to watch him in action and are "poised" to table a £15 million bid to bring him to the Emirates. Arsene Wenger is known for his attention to younger prospects, yet he is often criticized for not bringing in experience, which is cited as one of the main reasons for Arsenal's lack of success. It seems then, that Wenger has been doing his homework, as M'Vila's coach said after his debut in 2009: "For a youngster, he has an unusual level of maturity in his game."

A Rennes source said: "We know there are many clubs who want M'Vila but only a big offer will tempt us to sell him. We have not received any official bids."


His qualities are summed up on ESPN's profile on the player: Robust in the challenge, M'Vila is happy to put himself about and fears no-one when it comes to making a tackle. He boasts a fantastic work-rate but is by no means just about lumbering physicality; he possesses superb vision and can be instrumental in building-up attacks from the back.

His contract with Rennes expires in 2014 after signing another extension to his contract in August of 2010.

VOTE: Who Is Your Player of the Year?

Much has been made of this years PFA Player of he Year short-list, with there being controversy, particularly among Manchester United fans over seeing certain players left out, in United's case, Luis Nani. Above is the official list, and to avoid naming every player who has had an above average season, there is an added selection in which you can choose a player who you believe has had a season worthy of praise.
Below, are the players profiles:

Nemanja Vidic


Vidic has been a massive part of Manchester United's title push this season, being a solid, imposing and aggressive figure in the back four. A reliable defender who is never afraid to put his body on the line for his team has won countless contests with strikers this season, helping his veteran goalkeeper Edwin van der sar to keep 12 clean sheets in the league as well as being a threat from set pieces, scoring four goals in an outstanding season for the Serbian.

He has coped exceedingly well in the absence of his partner Rio Ferdinand, which was helped by the introduction of an impressive Chris Smalling. Vidic was given the captain's armband at the start of the season and has shown throughout that it was no mistake. A born leader, a brave defender, and a real contender for the Player of the Year.

Carlos Tevez


Just as Vidic is vital to United's defence and team as a whole, Carlos Tevez is also a crucial figure at City with his all round team displays. He never stops running, and plays with an admirable passion to win that is somewhat questioned by his off-field behaviour towards his contract. He has however recovered from certain differences he had with staff at Manchester City and continues to be a threat up front, and has his attentions turned to overtaking Dimitar Berbatov as the Leagues leading scorer.

19 goals and 6 assists in 27 league games emphasize the importance the Argentine has at City, who often struggle for goals and general creativity without him.Despite his troubles with the club in December, and his written transfer request, he remains a player who torments the best defenders, leads from the front and another strong contender for the award.

Charlie Adam

The Blackpool midfielder was the catalyst in helping his side to promotion to the Premier League and has this season been the very same thing in the clubs attempts to stay there. He has had a fantastic season, with his passing range and set piece ability worthy of praise alone. Indeed, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said of his corners: "his corner kicks are worth £10m". His inspired performances for Blackpool attracted interest from Liverpool, but petty offers were rejected by Ian Holloway, who claimed Adam to be worth well over the £4 million offered. 


9 goals in the League from midfield and 5 assists are impressive for a promoted player, but do not tell the whole story of his contribution to his side. However, he has been criticized for too many "Hollywood" passes in games, often giving the ball away in dangerous areas when a simple pass is on but this only highlights the 25 year-old's ambition and confidence in his ability, which he does have in abundance.

Gareth Bale


The Tottenham left midfielder has been raiding the left flank all season, and as a result has been subject to a few injuries which have, unfortunately for Tottenham halted his outstanding progress from the beginning of the season. He played the biggest part in beating Inter Milan in the Champions League, as he tore one of the supposed best right backs in the world to shreds with his blistering pace. His Premier League partnership with the strikers of Tottenham has also worked a treat with his crossing ability helping to score important goals for Spurs as balls are headed down by Crouch to the awaiting Dutchman and fellow nominee Rafael van der Vaart.

He has been excellent going forward on the flanks, but also has the goalscoring touch, with 7 goals and an assist to his name. Certainly a dangerous player who has come into the spotlight this season and is rated by his optimistic manager as worth the same as Crisitano Ronaldo.

Scott Parker


Scott Parker is a player whose passion, commitment, and desire to do whatever it takes to win ooze from him on the pitch. It is a phrase that is used a lot, but he really has almost single handedly kept West Ham in the fight for Premier League survival. He is just outstanding. There is no flashy business about him, or hogging of the limelight, like United's Paul Scholes, he gets on with his business because he loves to do it and because he is great at it.

His team mates confirm he is inspirational in the dressing room, and everyone who watches him play can confirm he is inspirational on the pitch. 5 goals and 2 assists are good for him, but is not what he is about. He is my favourite.

Samir Nasri


Arsenal are still fighting for the Premier League crown, and it is thanks in no small part to Samir Nasri, whose contribution to the title chase has been very much worth of praise. He is capable of pretty much anything in attack, and is a formidable attacking option for Arsenal, with his unpredictability being key to his quality and scaring defenders. It is a joy to watch him weave effortlessly in and around players as if the ball is stuck to his feet, and there is no doubt his performances this season are worthy of recognition.

His Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger described the 23 year-old French play maker as "young, quick and technically outstanding player", and I'm not sure anyone can disagree. His passing and movement are outstanding, links up perfectly with his fellow mid fielders and has scored 9 goals this season in the league.


Rafael van der Vaart


The former Real Madrid midfielder made a blistering start to his Tottenham career with goals here there and everywhere. His buy proved an absolute bargain on Harry Redknapp's behalf, signing the player just before the deadline for a knock-down fee of £8 million. His passing ability has proven to be fantastic throughout the season, and like Nasri, is capable of creating something out of nothing with shots coming from his powerful left foot either just missing the target or bulging the back of the net.


An injury in December halted his progress really, and his form from the start of the season has not really been shown since, but the 28 year0old Dutchman remains a threat at Tottenham, with his tally for the season an impressive 10 goals and 6 assists. 

Watch Goals: Blackpool 1 - 3 Arsenal

After Manchester United's influential Nani orchestrated an easy yet uninspired win and won three points against Fulham on Saturday, Arsenal's game against Blackpool was even more crucial in their race for the title. The Gunners fended off Blackpool's good start, helped by their loud and vibrant home support, cheering at every attack, and, against the run of play, Arsenal were able to carve open the Blackpool defence twice in quick succession to silence Bloomfield Road.

Blackpool were not in the giving up mood however. The second half saw the home crowd have much more to cheer about, with plenty of chances created, mostly in the first 20 minuted or so of the half. About 7 minutes into the second half, Taylor-Fletcher had forced the Tangerines back into the game with a good finish to beat the returning Jens Lehmann who was playing due to the late injury to Almunia in the warm up. Reports that Lehmann injured the Spaniard himself are unconfirmed. 

The German keeper could have been sent off in the lead up to the goal, bringing down an onrushing DJ Campbell to prevent him from scoring. Lee Mason had played the advantage previously when Wilshere brought down a Blackpool player, and he played it again which prevented Lehmann's dream return turning into a nightmare.

For about 10 or 15 minutes after the goal, Blackpool looked dangerous, but as Arsenal began to weather the storm, there looked like there would be only one result. And despite Blackpool's worthy efforts to get the equaliser, the game was killed off by a van Persie goal thanks to Theo Walcott's break in the 76th minute.

The Manchester United optimists and the Arsenal pessimists believe that the title race is already over, with a now seven point gap too much to overcome. But with a game in hand and a big game between the two sides to come, it may not be that simple.

Who Would Arsenal Fans Rather In Goal - Almunia or Lehmann?

Manuel Almunia suffered a knee injury in the warm up before Arsenal's crucial game against Blackpool today, and as a result, the 41 year-old German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann was played in Arsenal's goal. It was his first start since rejoining Arsenal as he came out of retirement to be back up to Almunia at the club, and he wasn't troubled too much in a game largely dominated by the Gunners.

Lehmann could have been sent off in the build up to Blackpool's first and only goal in the game in which he dived down to trip up DJ Campbell. A goal was scored anyway and Lee Mason played the advantage to Blackpool, preventing a red card being shown or a penalty given.

It is, as yet unclear as to How serious Almunia's injury is, but in the vital final few games, the question is, who would Arsenal fans rather have in goal, Manuel Almunia or Jens Lehmann?
Vote Below:

Who would Arsenal fans rather have in goal, Manuel Almunia or Jens Lehmann?

Video: United & Arsenal 'Target' Marko Marin

Manchester United and Arsenal are currently fighting with each other for the Premier League title, but come the summer transfer window, they will apparently be fighting for a player labelled as the "German Messi".

The 22 year-old German midfielder, Marko Marin currently plays for Werder Bremen in the Budesliga, where he can perform as an attacking midfielder and winger. He joined Werder Bremen in June of 2009 from Borussia Mönchengladbach and was even included in the German World Cup squad in 2010, making two appearances against both Australia and Serbia. 

He isn't a prolific goalscorer, with only four goals this season for Werder, but his contribution is more through his assists - 6 this season and 14 last season - troubling the defenders and making chances. 

Both Manchester United and Arsenal have been linked to bringing the exciting forward to the Premier League in the past, and now United are reportedly ready to 'intensify' their interest, and make a move for Marin. 

The player has unfortunately been accused of lacking strength on the ball and going down easily in a challenge, but as can be seen below, he has a special quality, especially in his dribbling ability and could be the spark who could light up United next season from a reported £15 million offer.

Johan Djourou Back in Under Two weeks

The initial diagnosis to Johan Djourou's unfortunate shoulder injury suffered against Manchester United in the FA Cup was that he would be out for the rest of the season. Groans echoed around the Emirates stadium, coming from frustrated Arsenal fans who had already had to suffer without Thomas Vermaelen for the majority of the season. The news about his injury however, began to get better and better, and today it has been reported that the Swiss defender may be back for April 17th - in time for Arsenal's Premier League clash with Liverpool.

The 24 year old injured his shoulder in a collision with Bacary Sagna, his Arsenal team mate during the United clash on 12th March. The news emerged that reconstructive surgery n the players shoulder was not needed and only a period of rehabilitation was required to see his shoulder recover. It was predicted on the 22nd March that Djourou would be back in training inaround a month, so the news that he could be back in just under two weeks is quite surprising - but encouraging for Arsenal.

He had to be  stretchered off and was in a considrable amount of pain, but he is sid the be "eyeing" the Liverpool fixture with anicipation for his return.

Meanwhile, Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas was involved in a car accident on his way to training on Monday morning. It was a minor accident, and no-one was hurt, with neither part requiring hospital treatment.
An Arsenal club spokesman confirmed:

"Cesc was involved in a minor car accident on his way to training this morning.

"After the incident, Cesc made his way to our training ground in London Colney and took part in a training session as normal.

"The Police are fully aware of the incident."

So after a disappointng, unpenetrative performance against Blackburn which saw Wenger's side draw a blank and walk away with a solitary point, and fall further behind United in the title race, thee is some good news on the injury front for once.

Pic & Video: Michael Essien Tackle on Jermaine Pennant

Michael Essien had already received a red card prior to this horrendous tackle on Jermaine Pennant against Stoke City on Saturday. After seeing this evidence, it should have been another red to add to the statistics, but instead of that, the Chelsea midfielder went unpunished - not even a yellow card.

Meanwhile, Wayne Rooney has been banned for two games by the FA for swearing into a television camera after completing a fantastic hat-trick and stunning comeback for Manchester United. His outburst will see him miss the Manchester derby, and the Premier League game against Fulham as United fight to stay above Arsenal in the title race.

It seems that the FA have punished a player by punishing the club he plays for rather than punishing the player. The banning of Rooney could possibly have an adverse effect on United's FA Cup challenge as well as their title challenge with Arsenal. The banning of Rooney for swearing - which, lets face it, happens every week and done so by every player on the pitch is nothing when a tackle such as the above is committed - something that can break a players leg and wreck a career. 

Rooney's reputation has been damaged even more by this incident and his frustration has been added to by a two match ban, but Jermaine Pennant's career could have been deeply effected, yet there was no punishment but a free-kick. 

A Champions Performance - A Vital Win

Wayne Rooney's swearing fit of joy/relief after he completed his unpredictable hat-trick pretty much summed up the feelings of the majority of Manchester United fans. This was a man who knew he hadn't played as well as he could have in the first half, and the pressure had been building. He had started ahead of the Premier League's top scorer, who sat on the bench with his new short hair cut, waiting to come on - a call many United fans were asking for. But he proved everyone wrong with that third goal which hauled United over the line ahead of an irritatingly hard to get past West Ham side.

United dominated the play, but after two very avoidable penalties were conceded and scored by Mark Noble, it was an uphill battle at the ground where a second string United team had conceded four in a Carling Cup encounter with Avram Grants side. Sir Alex was frustrated by the situation they were in; "Being two goals down was a travesty in terms of possession and chances created." 


So, sitting up in the stands, watching his players from above, the veteran United manager was in the perfect position to decide what to change - and big decisions were needed. The big substitution at half time was taking the perpetrator for the first penalty, Patrice Evra off, and throwing on the baby face Javier Hernandez, a young man with a growing goalscoring reputation.


It paid off, and in the 64th minute, a free kick was won. Now since Beckham and Ronaldo left United, there  has been a distinct lack of goals from free-kicks, especially at vital times. As Rooney stepped up, many I'm sure were expecting it to pathetically rebound off the wall, but this was not the case. Instead, Rooney scored 
the first of his three goals, and United were suddenly back in the game.


An Antonio Valencia cross was brought down superbly by Rooney and he took a touch to smash it into the bottom left hand corner of the West Ham net in a delightful finish. United weren't going to stop there however, oh no. Typically, United would go for the win, and, with all of the momentum of a quick fire double from an inspired Wayne Rooney, they were in the driving seat, with no chance of hitting the breaks.


When the little Brazilian Fabio worked his way into the box and was closed down by Upson, it looked like any chance was gone, but a clever little flick which hit the defenders arm prompted Lee Mason to point to the spot, for Rooney to step up and place into the corner. It also prompted Rooney to confront his critics with his potty mouth in front of the camera, in the midst of being mobbed by his United team mates. 


The win was there for the taking, but United were not safe yet, and United fans would have been thinking back to the early stages of the season when late goals were all that seemed to be occurring. Nevertheless, a nicely played counter attack saw Rooney roll it to Ryan Giggs, who never seemed to stop after being moved to left back at half time, and the Welshman crossed it across the ground for his little Mexican team mate to do what he does best from a few yards out.


Sir Alex Ferguson reacted to moving eight points clear of Arsenal in the table:

"We played like champions today, we kept our heads up and didn't lose faith in our ability.

"It's never easy coming here. They are fighting relegation but we had to do our thing.

"We dominated that second half and it was a real championship performance.

"Arsenal have a game in hand. It could go to goal difference but I somehow don't think so."

Berbatov came on and played brilliantly. His touch is, as ever, exquisite, and his hold up play is superb. It was a small cameo that may push him into contention for starting the Champions League game against Chelsea, but in Ferguson's mood of playing Rooney and Chicharito may over rule again. That is the beauty of it though, because the bench is so strong - Nani, Michael Owen, Chicharito and Rooney started on the bench - showing the strength in depth at United.


It was a a Champions performance, and a performance that has stepped United closer to holding aloft that Premier League trophy, ahead of Arsenal who drew at the Emirates against Blackburn.

A Passionate Rivalry Fuelled by Desire to Win

Ryan Giggs once said that the fixture between Liverpool and Manchester United is "probably the most famous fixture in English football". The veteran United player was speaking from experience - vast experience, and if anyone between the two sides still playing knows how deeply intense and important a game between the two sides is, it is Giggs. He has won 11 Premier League medals during his 21 years at Old Trafford, and under Sir Alex Ferguson, has equalled Liverpool's record for League titles.

18 titles each, and the end of the season is on the horizon. Neither side have relived their glory days this season, and, in Liverpool's case, have seen their quality dive to an unexpected and very unwelcome low under Roy Hodgson. Replaced by Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, and their form picked up, but such was their deficit of the leaders, that they now have no chance of catching either United or Arsenal at the top of the table and preventing their North West rivals from taking that 19th title.

The record means "so much" according to Rooney. The young United striker may not have as deeply rooted loyalty to United than Ryan Giggs has possessed over the passed two decades, but his past with Everton has fuelled his contempt for the Reds. He said yesterday that winning the 19th title for United would mean not only so much to United fans, but Everton fans too, who love to see their rivals suffer. 

"I grew up an Everton fan so to be part of the team to overtake Liverpool's record would be brilliant. It would mean so much to us players as well as the fans.

"It is something I have been thinking about a lot. I know all the Everton fans want us to do it and hopefully we can. You look forward to every game at this stage and you've got to enjoy it, especially when you are in the running for a few trophies. It is exciting for the fans and it's exciting for the players knowing that you are just a few weeks away from possibly winning a major trophy or two."

Liverpool's modern team have, as it is well known, failed to win a Premier League title, and in the meantime, United have succeeded at the pinnacle of the League table time after time, even winning the title three times in a row from 06/07 to 08/09. Liverpool have only been able to watch United succeed with gritted teeth - only coming close in the 08/09 season when they achieved their highest points total of 86 which was still not enough to overcome United. 

Players feel this rivalry, as Rooney showed in the quote above. Gary Neville, recently retired from United had a stunning passion for beating Liverpool, and as a result became a massive hate figure for Liverpool fans. This kind of fiery, hot-blooded conflict between players and opposing fans create that fantastic atmosphere in games. Much like Roy Keane's hatred for both Arsenal, and losing moulded the way in which the United - Arsenal games were played.

Steven Gerrard too, a talismanic figure for Liverpool who has often carried the team when many of the team dragged their heels with laziness is involved in this fight of the North West. The captain of Liverpool inspires his side at times admirably, but his main ambition to win a Premier League title has so far failed, and as he gets older, this achievement looks more and more unlikely. Gerrards banning of any Manchester United shirts in his house really sums up this burning rivalry.

Just as it means "so much" to Wayne Rooney and indeed I am sure, Ryan Giggs, it means a great deal to fans of both sides who live to see their respective teams succeed, and defeating their rivalry along the way. Whether there ferocious tackles, dubious decisions, last gasp goals or referee criticism, this is a rivalry that will continue with the same burning passion and interest for a long time. 

Arsenal after £15 million Colombian - Video

Arsenal are reportedly chasing FC Porto's 25 year-old striker, Ramadel Falcao. Wenger is frustrated with both van Persie's injuries and Marouane Chamakh's inconsistent performances, and while Arsenal's Danish attacker Nicklas Bendtner showers in his own praise, Wenger has found a new striker to get him the important goals and goal threat next season.

Falcao is just what Arsenal need up front - a goalscoring striker - and has netted 23 goals in 28 games in the Portuguese League this season, while last year he managed an amazing 34 goals in 43 games. This goal flare has turned the head of some top European clubs incuding Valencia, AC Milan, and Arsenal's local rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, but Wenger will be hopin a £15 million will be enough to bring him to the Emirates.

FC Porto currently lead the Portuguese Liga, above fierce rivals Benfica, and it is ther Colombian strikers' valuable goals that have helped them to such a fortunate position. They will be reluctant to let thier superstar go, but with a big bid and the players mind on a possible transfer, it would be best for Jose Mournho's former club to let their player go.

Below you can see what he is capable of.

Video: Manchester United Target David de Gea

Manchester United will buy a goalkeeper in the summer, that much is clear. Who it will be is the question, but if we are to believe reports from Spain and other sources, United have had a bid accepted for the 20 year old Spaniard, David de Gea.

He has been nicknamed by his Athletico Madrid team mates as "van der gea" due to his resemblance to the current, and soon to retire Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der sar. He is tall, agile, commanding and holds the invaluable quality of being able to keep calm under pressure. It is these sorts of qualities that Sir Alex Ferguson desires to replace his current number 1 and avoid the repetition of the last goalkeeping 'crisis' when Peter Schmeichel left United.

The United manager would also be hopeful to avoid the situation that Arsenal have suffered over the past five years - lacking a commanding, regular, consistent goalkeeper. Arsenal have recently received good news on this front, with another United target Maarten Stekelenburg being quoted as saying: "If an offer from Arsenal arrives, I will leave."

So with David de Gea being reported as United's top target, it is time to have a look at what United fans should expect from him. 29 games this season has seen him keep 9 clean sheets while saving a total of 121 shots. Compared to van der sar, his statistics are not all to bad. The United goalkeeper has played 28, kept 12 clean sheets and made a total of 67 saves. I suggest the statistics are heavily effected by the quality of the defences, but they are interesting nevertheless. Watch highlights of De Gea below: