Gunner lose again

Excuses are really starting to run out for Arsenal now.

They have almost all of their first-team players back and playing now. And yet, they still manage to get completely ripped apart by Manchester United.

Problem one, I believe, is a lack of heart. Most deficiencies in football can be made up for by sheer power of will and determination.

Problem two, the defence. I have no idea what's wrong with it. Sure, Clichy isn't 100%, but United just seem to defend so much better. I think it's because with them, it's a team effort. With Arsenal, if you're lucky, you get the centre backs defending, and not many other people besides. What's saddening is that while Arsenal are lacking in defence, they were also outclassed in attack. The manager has often defended Arsenal's defensive lapses, saying it's a result of the style of play. Attack, attack, attack. Then why is it always in big matches that Arsenal not only struggle at the back, but are found wanting up the front?

So they're missing van Persie. Surely Arshavin is good enough to fill in for that? But that guy is so inconsistent it's almost funny.

The best thing in this team is Fabregas. Arsenal are so lucky to have him. He's like a university graduate in a team of primary school kids. I'm afraid that he might leave at the end of the season though. Look at it logically. He could go to any team that he wanted. Anywhere in the world. It's not about money. I would be tempted if I were him for two reasons besides money. Reason number 1: the players at other teams are so much better to work with. Would you rather play in teams with Messi, Xavi, Ronaldo, Kaka, Benzema, or would you rather be mixing it with players like Diaby and Bendtner? Reason 2: the Gunners simply don't look like winning anything in the foreseeable future. It's sad. All they really need is a top-class striker, a decent holding mid, and possibly, but not necessarily, a centre back. That's all it would take for them to be awesome, really. That, and a fighting spirit.

I doubt they can get anything at all against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, of all places. Let's hope they surprise.

Word of the Day: Despondant