Okay, so we had a lovely time of it last night. I personally feel that was our best performance of the season so far albeit against a very poor Galatasaray side but, to be fair, any team you trounce by that score line is probably poor and it shouldn’t take anything away from a splendid performance.
One would hope Arsene sticks to the formation. It cannot be a coincidence that the two games we’ve won convincingly this season have been won using the 4-2-3-1.
And what about Welbeck?
I could start talking about that but it would just be me digressing. Let’s just say I was one of the people who were underwhelmed by his signing and now, while I’m not yet sold on the idea that he’s the next Thierry Henry, I’m certainly rooting for him all the same.
So on to what I want to talk about.
Before we all got happy over the Galatasaray match and performance, we got news that Giroud and Aterta were set for new contracts. Now here’s what I found a little curious; most fans weren’t very happy about the development.
In hindsight, maybe I shouldn’t have been, but I was a little disappointed. Now just so we’re clear: I still feel we need a new DM, this is a view that I’ve reiterated time and time again. I also feel that Giroud is a nice option from the bench. I appreciate what he does and all but I don’t want him leading the line week in week out.
With that being said, I feel they have brought a lot to the team. Giroud has scored 41 goals in 102 appearances,
It’s a respectable return, not a world beating one, but a respectable one. Aterta has been a key figure in the dressing room and has a calming influence on the pitch. When he was made captain Santi had only good things to say.
Now I’ve seen comments on how when Arsenal was tired of mediocrity and got rid of the likes of Aterta and Giroud then we could progress. These comments sadden me, ‘cos while I understand and accept that both are not world class, I find it hard to understand why anyone would be angry at us keeping two players who play their roles in the team pretty well.
We’ve lost the likes of Nasri, Van Persie, Fabregas etc. and people bemoaned how we couldn’t hold on to them and when we keep two good players we moan and complain. Like not appreciating what we have. It’s kinda like when a girl is going all men are dogs just ‘cos one handsome devil broke up with her while at the same time ignoring the not so handsome, loyal guy who’s ready to do anything for the girl.
It’s not like Aterta and Giroud are deadweight like Chamakh, Bendtner, Park, Santos or to an extent Asharvin, they are players who give their all to the team.
So while I don’t think they should be the first names on the team sheet, I also don’t think they deserve the ire that’s thrown in their direction.
Hopefully they both go on to do well and be successful in this team. Nothing will make me happier (I lie! There are loads of things that will make me happier, but you get my drift) 😀
