Would love to see a team attempt to ‘bully’ that team, it just wouldn’t happen in a hurry. I wouldn’t be surprised if we play that type of team at Stamford Bridge

Life moves quickly in the world of football. The Stoke City defeat has faded into the distance and all that can be heard is the mutterings about the Villa aftermath.

The biggest talking point is that of our Belgian super jumper Thomas Vermaelen. His metal legs have withstood the injury curse and has come through relatively unharmed, although he is still a doubt for Sunday. But like many have said already, I would not be one bit surprised to see him glaring into the Manchester United players eyes on Sunday afternoon. One center back who most certainly will not be starting on Sunday is that of Rio Ferdinand. His appeal was rejected and an extra game ban has been slapped on his head. Vidic has been out with injury but is likely to make it back in time. Hopefully he will need some more minutes to get back to his best, that along with his partner’s absence could be very positive for our front men.

Arsene believes that Sol Campbell would be ready to deal with Rooney if he recovers well enough after playing two games in a short space of time. I would rather the mobile Vermaelen against Rooney than Campbell but even if Thomas doesn’t make it in time then I think Campbell has enough experience to halt the threat of the inform Rooney.

How I would love to have Abou Diaby back for that game, *sigh*

He is such a handful for the opposition, especially at the Emirates as he has more licence to run through the opposition and get into their penalty box. It wasn’t long ago that we were being called a little team with no strength and height. A few weeks later and some returning players our squad looks a little different.

Would love to see a team attempt to ‘bully’ that team, it just wouldn’t happen in a hurry. I wouldn’t be surprised if we play that type of team at Stamford Bridge, with a Clichy thrown in here or there. There is no need to get ahead of myself though, Sunday’s game will be big enough without thinking too far ahead.

I loved Bendtner’s confidence when talking of the chance to become Arsenal’s central striker.

The Dane said:

“Is this a chance to become the number one striker? That is my plan. Is it achievable? Of course. Why am I so confident? It is simple. I am a good player. I’ve always had that belief. People ask me every time we speak ‘why are you like that?’ and that’s just the way it is.

That is the exact attitude I want to hear from Arsenal players. Bendtner has been very unlucky to have been injured during the time when Van Persie was out of action. Bendtner wanted the central role earlier in the season but couldn’t get in ahead of Robin, now he can show everyone what he can do and hopefully score the goals that will push us to the title.

Like I mentioned yesterday, he came on and looked very sharp. I was expecting him to give away many passes but he linked up with his team mates very well. With Eduardo out injured you would imagine that Nicklas will get another chance. He caused Vidic and Ferdinand all sorts of problems at the Emirates. Hopefully he can do the same and a bit more.

Arsene Wenger has told the press that it is unlikely that he will bring anybody in before the transfer window closes. Cue mass hysteria around the blogosphere.

To be honest I didn’t expect any new faces, especially since Bendtner has come through his groin problem without any problems (so far)

I would talk about Inter Milan apparent interest in Sagna but I am sure Wenger also likes Messi so there is no point talking about happy players who are not for sale.

I liked Wenger’s very gracious comments about losing out to Smalling.

Wenger said:

“I am sorry because we were very close to getting him, We were on the case very early.I wish the player well. At the end of the day it is important he has a good career. In both clubs he has a good chance to make a great career. The most important thing is he does that.”

With both Arsenal and Manchester United fighting tooth and nail to get him, it seems that he has great potential. I cannot really agree with the good luck part though, he will be a Manc after all.

With that, I am gone.

Back again tomorrow.