The travelling Gooners were in good voice, they knew that Anfield is always a good indicator of how the season turns out. Our last league victories there have come in title-winning seasons, and given our recent form a win was more than a possibility. The Scouser in our ranks had said before the game that listening to You’ll Never Walk Alone would move him to tears
On the pitch, we are in relatively rude health. Whatever people say about the strengths and weaknesses of the squad, there is no doubting that it already has a different feel to it than last season. It’s a kind of backs-to-the-wall, siege mentality vibe, a ‘thou shalt not bully us’ modus operandi. We’re giving as good as we get in terms of physicality, and I like it.
The current squad, I believe, do not lack quality or talent or even team-spirit. But what they may lack, as evidenced by the performances last season at Bramall Lane
Bleary-eyed and bloody knackered, I dragged myself out of bed at a hideous 5am to begin my journey to Amsterdam, the location of Arsenal’s final pre-season forays.
How great a feeling was that? Lifting some silverware, and in front of our own fans too! Yes it was only a pre-season tournament, and yes the teams we played were far from at full strength
I for one will miss Freddie, he had certain qualities that no-one else did: a fiery streak, a bit of mouth, some fighting spirit, and of course a poacher’s instinct.