We had very few “quiet” weeks this season and this one was no different. Angry fans asking for Wenger’s head, transfer rumours, players revealing they play for us just for money and much more. As always, I’ll try to jot down my thoughts and discuss them with you, if you wish.

To sign or not to sign

The most discussed topic was of course what will happen this summer during the transfer market and I was surprised by some of Wenger’s comments. He first – after the Chelsea game – admitted we need reinforcements but this is surprising because the first signs of the problems which surfaced after the Chelsea and United games appeared months ago, so I find it hard to believe he needed to see the team being outplayed by these two sides to realise signings are required.

Also, I cannot understand how months ago he was telling L’Equipe how bringing in the likes of Alonso or Barry would kill Denilson, Song and Diaby but now it seems they will keep on living if new faces are brought it. Finally, yesterday, he said he will not deviate from his cautious approach so lucky is the one who knows what will happen this summer. I may write something on who should leave and who should join next week for all of us to discuss.

Arsenal have point to prove

Having lost against Chelsea and failed to stay on course for third place, the game against Manchester United is a sort of reward to all of us for a number of reasons. One, because this is our last opportunity to try and show that we’re as strong as the top teams in our country. Two, because had it been bottom-of-the-table West Brom the game would have been of very little interest and finally, because our little Russian magician will be in action and hopefully he will produce the same magic put on show at Anfield.

Simply put, we can’t allow United to toy with us just as they did in the Champions League, there has to be a reaction.

Transfer Rumours

Chelsea to sign Adebayor, Van Persie to Inter Milan and Carlos Vela to leave for West Ham or Pompey are three transfer rumours about the Arsenal I read in the last day or so. As always, everyone is intelligent enough to know whether there is some truth in such headlines but for sure is that I was – to put in Arsha-terms – baffled, to read about Carlos’ departure, although considering he wasn’t even on the bench last week, it comes to no surprise.

My favourite line-up

No different than last week’s. Walcott and van Persie were disappointing against Chelsea whilst Bendtner was full of life so it’s fair to make changes and try something new. Unfortunately Theo wasted a lot when he had to produce that final pass or shot so it is important to see what others can do in his position. Also, Nasri should move back to his beloved left position as in the middle he’s not comfortable at all.

Pre-match interviews

Wenger:

We will play for our pride and for respect for what we do from the people who love the game. We said in January that we would do our utmost to the last day of the season and that is what we will do. It looks like Manchester United for the title now, but we can delay it.

We are playing for our future and for our pride and it is important we give them a top-class game. I believe in this team, in this group of players and I believe we are as good as them offensively.

Ferguson:

We will approach it [the Arsenal game] like we approach every match and try to win it. We know how good a side they are and we will have to perform well.

Before, during and after the game

As always, tune in for team line-ups, streaming links, half time and full time reports, post-match thoughts, video highlights and what the press is writing. And of course, do contribute if you want to by making use of the comment box available at the bottom of the post as it’s always nice to hear your opinion. And as a final note, if you want to go one step further than just leaving a comment and want to have your articles published on our website, take a look here for more information.