I woke up unaided by alarm somehow this morning and decided to watch the delayed match. Was surprised to find the local supporters singing ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ (it turns out this anthem is sung before every kick-off) and for a while wondered if Astro SuperSport was showing the Liverpool-Liege match again by mistake.
Arsenal scraped a win thanks to goals from Gallas and Adebayor but the team looked like it really missed Fàbregas, Toure and Diaby. So whatever Twente questions that may have been raised before are now answered. Arsenal must be very good or very lucky to win with that kind of performance and especially with the absence of their influential midfielder matador.
The difference between Arsenal and other teams is that the Gunners are interested and passionate about playing football. The other teams are interested in winning matches. Of course, we also want to win but it’s not the sole aim. There’s an important distinction there which is manifested when you see Fàbregas make an unexpected pass but which on hindsight seemed completely logical and inevitable. But sometimes, a win is more important, especially if they have been playing a lacklustre game.
Toure and Samir Nasri should be fit for the league opener but it looks like my fabulous Fab will still be out for the Saturday match. So until then, let’s look back at a wonderful summer (though it’s not yet over of course!).
Yes, Fàbregas, we know what you did there during your summer break.
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