31 Aug 2013 07:47:46
I suffered mediocrity through the mid-70s and the early 80s. It was horrible at times and only a couple of cup runs kept the North Bank going. I agreed with Arsenal's strategy in the late noughties and we were very close to creating perfection again in 2007-8. Since then we've slowly eroded the squad and although we have a good 1st XI we don't have anyone to rotate / reinforce / compete with the starters (less left back). I don't give a monkeys about the Spuds, but the Manx, Citeh and Chelski have squads that have competition all over the pitch. They also pay their youngsters the going rate until they've won something and deserve more. Our economic strategy does not attract the top stars and we reward potential not performance - not a great combination. Now, on the positive side, we have the money to change that and we have a good core on which to build. We are at a tipping point though. If we don't reinforce our paper thin squad with proven winners - they galvanise the squad (the Bergkamp effect) - it will be a long hard season. Whatever happens though, every morning I thank my lucky stars that I was born a Gooner! See you in the Twelve Pins on Sunday boys; COYG!

1.) 31 Aug 2013
Totally agree Herrick. Sadly can't join you in The 12 Pins before the game but will be enjoying a pint in The Tamal & watching the game there. Any gooners around feel free to join us

2.) 31 Aug 2013
You should be worried not only about Spurs but Liverpool as well can't see Arsenal finishing top five this year look at this way your squad lacks in depth and your manager has less pulling power than a clapped out ford capri all talk no action in the transfer market face it Arsenal will struggle this year end of!

3.) 31 Aug 2013
I remember the Brendon Batson and Brian Hornsbury times of the 70s and they were very tough times to go thorough. Things are no where near as bad as that now but we are slowly becoming a uafa cup team as we lose ground on on the teams both above us and around us

4.) 31 Aug 2013
Well, am glad am not only an Arsenal fan but also a huge fan of Chelsea. Goodluck gooners!

5.) 31 Aug 2013
Not sure how I'll recognise you Herrick but 'see' you in the Pins on Sunday!