Same old Arsenal?

Same old Arsenal, isn't it? They go on a good run, get your hopes up, and then they break your heart (twice).

After the woeful display against Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup, the Gunners follow it up with another dismal performance against PSV Eindhoven in the UEFA Champions League. Although it is wrong to count them out due to two matches after a fantastic run which included good results against Liverpool, Manchester United, Bolton, and Tottenham. It is just plainly disappointing.

Pundits were quick to put the blame on Thierry Henry's pedestrian performance. A few people pointed out that Arsenal plays better without Henry. There might be substance in this thought that but he wasn't alone, William Gallas and Gilberto had as much claim to the lackluster play. They look tired which can be attributed to the congested fixture list which has them playing every weekend plus a match in mid-week be it the Carling Cup, the FA Cup, or the Champions League. Nothing went well for Gallas. Gilberto gave away the ball easily. I think the stellar displays by the Baby Gunners in the League Cup (or Carling Cup) can be attributed to the innocence of youth. They do not have to defer to Henry (since he never plays in the League Cup) and they play better as a team. They do not look for the perfect goal and they never hesitate to play direct football if needed. I wonder if Arsene Wenger sees it the way I do or will he just tell me "I do not know, I did not see it"?

Emmanuel Eboue (arguably, Arsenal's best player for this season) was sorely missed. Gallas' flexibility and experience did not translate into him filling Eboue's boots, albeit he is not match-fit. Emmanuel Adebayor, while showing a lot of talent and the potential to get better, has the touch of a door. His work-rate can never be questioned, but if his touch was a bit better ...

Based on current form, I do not see it happening, but I still hope that Wenger captures the European title that has eluded him. For revolutionizing football all over the world, The Professor deserves one.

Relax ... it's early. Pretty soon, these kinks will be ironed out. It will soon be the SAME OLD ARSENAL, ALWAYS SCORING. Then I can refer to matches like this by saying "I do not know, I did not see it."

(who said Arsene is not a genius?)