25 Sep 2013 11:59:12
Oh my word!

I've just seen the squad for tonight. I'm now feeling mixed emotions. This is the first game since Villa I've been worried about. I feel mixed because I really don't want us to lose this or any game, and with West Brom having a tough start to their season, after their weekend win they're going to look to do everything they can to make it two wins on the bounce, and they'll throw everything at us.

The flip side to that is I really think our first team can achieve top 3 this season, having seen how everything is going so far. But I think in order for us to do that, we may have to take a hit on the cup runs. So this season, having seen us spend big and the confidence I have in future windows and therefore future seasons, I don't mind if all we do this season is focus on a top 3 finish. If that means we have to rely on the kids in the cups in order to preserve the first team, then for this season, I would accept that.

So on one hand I know anything is possible and will be hoping for a win (and I do think it's definitely possible!) I do have reservations based on tonight's squad and so am slightly worried. But then if we lose it's not the end of the world. This season there is one important competition and that is the league!

I'm really hoping for big games from Eisfeld, Gnabry and Ryo. Can't wait to see who starts. I'd say the team picks itself but I never get it right and we all know you can't really predict Wenger!

Do you pick Chuba up front, who has fitness on his side but not the experience? Or do you pick one of two forwards who've barely kicked a ball for us? And Bendtner has had an operation, will he be able to play more than say half an hour?! It's so hard to call.

Either way, I will be right behind everyone, cannot WAIT for this game, matchdays is what being a gooner is all about :)

Now to kill the time between then and now.

1.) 25 Sep 2013
Spurs fan, I think with the football you are playing at present. the only thng that may hurt you (IS SPURS) only joking I think it is too early for us but your squad isn't big enough and its a shame as I could have seen you doing a double. will you still go for champs league or will you concentrate on the league. the league is wide open especially as you have more continuation than anyone else from the previous big four we may get a cup but watch out for us next year as lamela is going to be quite good. good luck tonight as I have a bet on you and so I am doubley gutted for you playing (sensibily) a weakened side and I think swansea may be a tough one aswell as they are buzzing at present

2.) 25 Sep 2013
I agree with you Metal taking a hit in the cups is worth it to finish higher in the league, I think we can be top two this season.

If the youngsters can go all the way I will be as ecstatic as they come but would hate to get yet more injuries in this cup with FT player's.

I want to dethrone utd not Swansea or Wigan and have city chel envy us not Norwich or Southampton, no disrespect to either.

3.) 25 Sep 2013
Derbyshire Dave

Totally agree with you about such a small squad but come November Ox, Walcott, Santi and Rosicky will be back .Ox, Santi and Ros all like new signings. but I do take your point

4.) 25 Sep 2013
Very wengeristic that they will be like new signings ha ha but yes I also take your point. as I say with a fit squad this is the best opportunity you have had for years we may be rivals now but it could become even more intense as things go forward, north london will be the new football capital of england. I hope. I also hope that the rivalry doesn't get to out of hand and we can have some good banter

5.) 25 Sep 2013
Go along with the north London dominance and the good banter Dave I'm strongly in favour of both mate. Arsenal champions you second to us for the next 20 years.

All in their rightful place and all very happy to be there