|.:. Arsenal - Ooh, To Be A Gooner... .:.|

[Muzzy]

Too Long Without Silverware...
Too Long Without Success...
Too Long Without Muzzy?
I'm Back...

[Muzzy]

+ Club Name: Arsenal F.C
+ Nicknames: The Gunners, The Gooners
+ League: Premiership
+ Formed: 1888
+ Owners: Arsenal Holdings.co
+ Chairman: Peter Hilll-Wood
+ Manager: Arsene Wenger
+ Stadium: Emirates Stadium
+ Closest Rivals: Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United.

First Division/Premiership: 1930–31, 1932–33, 1933–34, 1934–35, 1937–38, 1947–48, 1952–53, 1970–71, 1988–89, 1990–91, 1997–98, 2001–02, 2003–04

FA Cup: 1929–30, 1935–36, 1949–50, 1970–71, 1978–79, 1992–93, 1997–98, 2001–02, 2002–03, 2004–05

League Cup: 1986–87, 1992–93

FA Community Shield/FA Charity Shield: 1930, 1931, 1933, 1934, 1938, 1948, 1953, 1991 (shared), 1998, 1999, 2002, 2004

European Cup Winners' Cup: 1993–94

Inter-Cities Fairs Cup: 1969–70

Home Strip - The Gunners stick to their red and white traditional strip this season, but die hard fans are actually upset that the sleeves are not entirely white. I kid you not. The shirt comes with white shorts bearing the club logo and the players number in red, and white socks.

Away Strip - A slightly different approach this season, Arsenal have gone for a smart navy blue kit with polo shirt collar. One proposed idea for this kit was all white, with Arsene Wenger's face embossed into the stomach of the t-shirt. Again, I kid you not.

Third Strip - Used for matches in which other kits will both largely match the opposition, or for some away ties in Europe, the third kit is identical to the away strip in design, but is all white, and with dark red pin stripes instead of lighter blue ones.

[Muzzy]

Arsenal were founded as Dial Square in 1886 by employees of the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich, but were soon renamed Royal Arsenal. Five years later they turned professional, and renamed themselves again – this time to Woolwich Arsenal. The club joined the Football League in 1893, starting out in the Second Division, and won promotion to the First Division in 1904.

The club was difficult to reach for both supporters and opposition clubs, meaning it didn’t take as much revenue as it needed to – by 1910 it was effectively bankrupt, when they were taken over by Henry Norris. Norris wanted to move the club to beat its financial issues, and in 1913, soon after relegation back to the Second Division, Arsenal moved to the new Arsenal Stadium in Highbury, North London. Seeing as they were nowhere near the place, they dropped Woolwich from their name, and became the Arsenal. Arsenal only finished in fifth place in 1919, but were elected to enter the First Division at the expense of local rivals Tottenham Hotspur, with some argument over whether or not the election was fair.

In 1925, Arsenal appointed Herbert Chapman as manager. This was to become the first golden period in Arsenal’s history, as behind Chapman the Gunners won their first major silverware. His tactics and training, unheard of at the time, along with the signings of star players such as Alex James and Cliff Bastin, laid the foundations of the club's domination of English football in the 1930s. Under his control the Gunners won an FA Cup in 1930 and two League Championships, in 1931 and 1933. Chapman was also behind the 1932 renaming of the local London Underground station from "Gillespie Road" to "Arsenal", making it the only Tube station to be named specifically after a football club. Chapman unexpectedly died of pneumonia in early 1934, ironically as the final whistle of an Arsenal game blew. He was a man admired through the English game for his passion in the sport, and was missed by many.

He left Joe Shaw and George Allison to carry on his project, and with them Arsenal won three more titles: in 1934, 1935 and 1938, as well as an FA Cup in 1936. As key players began to retire Arsenal started to fade, and then World War II meant competitive professional football in England was stopped until the war should end. After the war, under Allison's successor Tom Whittaker, Arsenal enjoyed another successful period, winning the league in 1948 and 1953, and the FA Cup in 1950. After that though, they declined. The club was simply unable to bring players of the same quality as 1930s had yielded, and the club spent most of the 50s and 60s outrageously average. Even former England captain Billy Wright could not bring the club success as manager between 1962 and 1966.

Arsenal began winning silverware again with the unexpected appointment of club physiotherapist Bertie Mee as manager in 1966. They lost two League Cup finals, but then won the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, their first European trophy, in 1970. This was followed by an great and unexpected victory: their first League and FA Cup double in 1971. This marked a premature high point of the decade; the Double-winning side was soon broken up and the following decade involved missing out closely on too much silverware to be considered even remotely funny. Arsenal finished as First Division runners-up in 1972–73, lost three FA Cup finals: ‘72, ‘78 and ‘80) and lost the 1980 Cup Winners' Cup final on penalties. The club's only success during this time was an FA Cup win in 1978–79, with a last-minute 3–2 victory over Manchester United embedded in the memory of any Gunners who watched it (including my Dad).

The return of former player George Graham as manager in 1986 brought a third period of silverware. The Gunners claimed the League Cup in1987, Graham's first campaign at the helm. This was followed by a League title win in 1989, won with a last-minute goal in the final game of the season against fellow title challengers Liverpool (“It’s Thomas!...”). Graham's Gooners won another title in 1991, losing only one match, the FA Cup and League Cup double in 1993 and a second European trophy, the Cup Winners' Cup, in 1994. This success was, unfortunately, not to last – Graham was sacked after allegedly taking pay offs from a player agent Rune Hague in certain deals, and left the club in 1995. His replacement Bruce Rioch only lasted one season, though one of his actions lasted for a decade longer… the signing of one Dennis Bergkamp from Inter Milan.

Rioch was replaced by Mr. Arsène Wenger in 1996. The manager was truly unexpected – “Arsene Who?” said the newspapers. But Wenger brought new tactics, a new training regime and several foreign players who complemented the existing English talent to the club, and the sparkling era the Gunners have enjoyed since the tail end of the nineties had begun. Arsenal won a second league and cup double in 1998 and a third in 2002. The club also reached the final of the 2000 UEFA Cup (losing on penalties to Galatasaray), was victorious in the 2003 and 2005 FA Cups, and won the Premier League in 2004 without losing a single match, which earned the side the nickname "The Invincibles". That side, all in all, went 49 league matches unbeaten, a national record, before being beaten 2-0 by Manchester United.

Arsenal have finished in either first or second place in the league in eight of Wenger's eleven seasons at the club. They are one of only four teams to have won the Premier League since its formation in 1992, though they have never won back to back Premier League titles. Arsenal had never progressed beyond the Champions League quarter-finals until 2005–06, in which they reached the final, the first club from London to do so in the competition's fifty-year history, where they were beaten 2–1 by FC Barcelona. In July 2006, they moved into their current stadium, the Emirates Stadium, after 93 years at Highbury.

[Muzzy]

Former Names: Ashburton Grove
Location: Islington, London
Team: Arsenal F.C
Capacity: 60,355
UEFA Rating: *****
Architect: HOK Sports

Replacing the legendary stadium Highbury in 2006, the Emirates Stadium is an incredible feat of design and modern technology. The stadium has been designed in tangent with Arsene Wenger’s vision of a perfect stadium, and is able to match any stadium in the world for impression, size and sheer noise on a matchday. One astonishing feat the Emirates has achieved is the potential to become even bigger. The top of the stadium is designed to be removed so an extra tier can be added when funds are collected, which could take the capacity of the ground to around 80,000. Incredible ingenuity, incredible architecture, incredible stadium.

[Muzzy]

--
Name: Manuel Almunia
Age: 32
Number: 1
Position: GK
FIFA-Pro Rating: 81
Nationality: Spanish
Previous Clubs: Osasuna B, Cartagonova, Sabadell, Celta Vigo, Eibar (loan), Recreativo Huelva (loan), Albacete (loan).

Bio: Despite doubts that he was Arsenal caliber a few seasons ago, Manuel has stuck through both thick and thin with the club and developed into what many consider to be a world class goalkeeper, with his form hitting one of its peaks towards the end of last term. The Spaniard came under serious fire after his substitute appearance and his teams subsequent loss in the Champions League final against Barcelona in 2006; he conceded two almost identical goals on the night. Since then, dogged determination and slowly developing quality have been the key for Manuel, and the departure of jens Lehmann at the beginning of last term were just what he needed. Outrageous shows of goalkeeping in games against local rivals Tottenham Hotspur (in which he saved a penalty) and the ultimately doomed semi final against Manchester United (in which he handed in two stellar performances against dominant sides) have lodged him as Arsenal’s firm number one.

--
Name: Lukasz Fabianski
Age: 24
Number: 21
Position: GK
FIFA-Pro Rating: 75
Nationality: Polish
Previous Clubs: Lech Pozan, Legia Warsaw.

Bio: Since joining from Polish champions Legia Warsaw in 2007, Lukasz has spent his time at Arsenal honing his skills in training with some of the best goalkeepers in the world, such as Jens Lehmann. He has made international starts for his country despite being such an unknown quantity at his club – a fact that shows the potential he has in just a few words, with that same country housing such goalkeeping talents as Artur Boruc and Jerzy Dudek. Lukasz has spent the majority of his time in the hugely successful youth of the Arsenal Carling Cup sides, full of outrageously potential youth like Jack Wilshire, Cesc Fabregas, Denilson, Aaron Ramsey, Johan Djourou and Kieran Gibbs.

--
Name: Vito Mannone
Age: 21
Number: 24
Position: GK
FIFA-Pro Rating: 64
Nationality: Italian
Previous Clubs: Atlanta.

Bio: Virtually nothing is known to many about Vito Mannone, but those in the know see the youngster as one of Italy’s future international veterans. Snapped up at the tender age of 17 from mid table Serie A side Atlanta, the youngster has also been honing his goalkeeping skills, making appearances in the F.A Cup, Carling Cup and, at the very end of last term, his first Premier League appearance. Beaten only from the spot, Vito kept a clean sheet in open play, as his side ran out 4-1 winners against Stoke City. A massive confidence boost for the young man, who is doubtless looking to push Lukasz Fabianski as Almunia’s number two this season.

[Muzzy]

--
Name: Thomas Vermaelen
Age: 24
Number: 5
Position: CB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 79 (WUT.)
Nationality: Belgian
Previous Clubs: KFC Germinal Beerschot, AFC Ajax, RCJ Waalwijk (loan).

Bio: As Wenger’s first signing of the summer, Thomas has a lot to live up to. The only high profile signing of the year for Arsenal this season, the Dutchman has some brief history with the Gunners – he and Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie had a brief square off when the Gunners played Ajax in 2007. The Gunners wound up 1-0 winners on the day, and they’ve made perhaps an even bigger victory over the Dutch side in bringing Vermaelen to the Emirates Stadium. Renowned throughout Holland for his technical excellence (and with all the technique in Holland, that is NOT something that comes easily), the defender was captaining Ajax before the age of 24. TO become the captain of one of the biggest clubs in the world at such a young age is representative of unique ability and qualities – qualities that any team would pay to posess.

--
Name: William Gallas
Age: 32
Number: 10
Position: CB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 84
Nationality: French
Previous Clubs: Caen, Marseille, Chelsea.

Bio: Since his swap with Ashley Cole, William Gallas has not cheated on his wife as Cole has done.

Oh. Sorry, non biased. Yes.

The temperamental French CB was part of a swap deal with Chelsea in desperation to end the Ashley Cole transfer saga, and the fact that Chelsea didn’t want to let him go indicates his quality already. William is experienced in a number of competitions, and brought knowledge and strength to an Arsenal back line that thoroughly needed it. He came under huge criticism after his tantrum at Birmingham City, in which the Blues equalised in the ninetieth minute to bring the Gunners back to a 2-2 draw, and as a result of that tantrum lost the captains armband; since It has gone, it is like a weight has been released from his shoulders. William appears to be enjoying the best football he has ever played, making stunning tackles worthy of Arsenal players like Tony Adams. His ability to notch the odd goal or two should also come in handy this season – from a CB position, 6 goals last season was not a poor tally.

--
Name: Bakary Sagna
Age: 26
Number: 3
Position: RB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 83
Nationality: French
Previous Clubs: Auxerre.

Bio: From a previously unknown quantity to appearing for his country, Bakary Sagna has settled into the Premier League just as quickly, if not sooner, than Andrey Arshavin. A true Wenger player from the word go, the 26 year old can attack and defend with equal speed, is a brilliant passer of the ball and runs like the wind. A £6m move from Auxerre in 2007 gave him his chance for the big time, and 38 appearances for the club in his first season cemented him a place in the first team. A goal against Chelsea, despite the eventual loss, helped his cause hugely, and after a stunning 49 appearances last season Bakary looks to be just entering his prime.

--
Name: Gael Clichy
Age: 24
Number: 22
Position: LWB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 83
Nationality: French
Previous Clubs: Cannes.

Bio: Arsenal seem to have a conveyer belt of fantastic left backs at present. With the stunning progress Clichy has made since his move from Cannes, it is no surprise that the money-stuffed Real Madrid were sniffing around looking for a bargain. Wenger beat them away, and it’s easy to see why – Clichy is invaluable to the Arsenal squad. His forward runs are that of a left winger, his dribbling of a season midfielder, and yet he has the tackling quality of any left back in the world. Last season he notched his first and only goal for the club (I would like to point out, at this point, that Gael Clichy had played over 100 games for Arsenal before scoring. It took Silvestre two.), and made 41 appearances for the Gunners despite an injury keeping him out of the tail end of the season. That kind of importance is one that clubs are desperate to hang on to, and Arsenal fans will be looking forward to seeing the Frenchman in an Arsenal #22 shirt this season.

--
Name: Mikael Silvestre
Age: 32
Number: 18
Position: CB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 76
Nationality: French
Previous Clubs: Rennes, Inter Milan, Manchester United.

Bio: Why Jesus, Why?!

*ahem*

In bringing in Mikael Silvestre from Old Trafford, Wenger found true experience to bring to his back line. Having played 361 games for Manchester United, winning many a Premier League title and being part of the 2008 Champions League winning squad, Mikael has been there and done it all. His performances, however, were considered under par by the majority of Arsenal fans last season, including a mistake against his former club that led to the only goal in a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford. A 20 year old to his left played him off the park that night, and that was enough for many to question his place at Arsenal. Silvestre is not without some redeeming qualities, though – he scored against Tottenham for Arsenal last season.

--
Name: Phillippe Senderos
Age: 24
Number: 6
Position: CB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 76
Nationality: Swiss
Previous Clubs: Servette, AC Milan (loan).

Bio: After his loan to AC Milan, huge interest from outside clubs such as Hertha Berlin and Everton, and a desire to leave the club, many are thinking the same thing – “Why the bloody heel is Big Phil still here?”. Well still here he is, and a season of playing to the better after making 14 appearances for AC Milan last year. Despite being an integral member of the Champions League squad in 2006 that ran all the way to the final thanks to the intense partnership of Kolo Toure and Senderos at the back, Big Phil has come under intense scrutiny by Arsenal fans in recent years. The 4-2 loss to Liverpool at Anfield showed some of his worst qualities as a defender – with Gunners fans treated to fast defenders like Toure, Gallas, Clichy and Sagna, seeing Torres leave Senderos for dead within half a second of a turn was simply too much to bear. The massive Swiss international left the club at the beginning of last season for a loan spell in Italy after the acquisition of Silvestre, and many believed that he wouldn’t be coming back. It shall be interesting to see him now he is.

--
Name: Kieran Gibbs
Age: 20
Number: 28
Position: LWB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 75
Nationality: English
Previous Clubs: Wimbledon.

Bio: Arsenal’s best player over the 135 minutes he played against Manchester United in the semi final of the Champions League, Gibbs is celebrated as England’s next left back prodigy. His royal skinning of Cristiano Ronaldo, leaving the Portugese international on the floor and left for dead, was celebrated like it was a goal for the Gunners, and although his slip led to the goal that many believe doomed Arsenal to go out in that leg, the thousands of letters of support flooding the Arsenal inbox were an indication of the performances he made. A number of Carling Cup appearances were also on the cards last year, making three starts in the competition in addition to his eight Premier League appearances last season.

--
Name: Armand Traore
Age: 20
Number: 30
Position: LWB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 73
Nationality: French
Previous Clubs: Monaco.

Bio: Considered by some as a future left winger rather than a left back, Armand is the latest result from the conveyer belt of left back shaped win that Arsenal have been pumping out since the arrival of Ashley Cole in Arsenal colours. Plucked from Monaco at the age of 17, Wenger and co. have since been busy moulding the youth into Wenger’s style of LB – fast, great on the ball and with a tendency to get forward. Only making three first team appearances last season as a third choice left back, Traore still managed two F.A Cup appearances and four Carling Cup matches. With clubs sniffing around to take the youngster on loan, Wenger should keep his ear to the ground – a season of first team football could make Armand as a player.

--
Name: Johan Djourou
Age: 22
Number: 20
Position: CB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 78
Nationality: Swiss
Previous Clubs: Etoile Carouge FC.

Bio: As the tallest defender at the Emirates Stadium, Johan is a formidable presence in the back four. At a whopping 6”4, he is not to be messed with, and his technical ability for a player of a such a height is astounding. Often lining up at centre back for Switzerland alongside team compatriot Senderos, Djourou has been gaining experience since his move from Etoile Carouge back in 2003 as a 16 year old. Twenty five appearances in all competitions last season show his worth already, despite him having never scored for the club in competitive action. He now looks to push msessus Vermaelen and Gallas for a first team place, many considering him the first line of defensive backup should one of them be injured. His potential is huge, and with years still to grow, many should have their eyes of Johan’s performances this year.

[Muzzy]

--
Name: Cesc Fabregas
Age: 22
Number: 4
Position: CM
FIFA-Pro Rating: 87
Nationality: Spanish
Previous Clubs: Barcelona Youth.

Bio: Prodigy. International. Captain. Whatever you want to call him, he is without doubt one of the greatest midfielders in the world at this point in time. Not only is Cesc Fabregas a superb passer of the ball, a creator of goals and a tenacious talent on the ball, off the pitch he hasn’t been sucked in by the money and fame he’s been elevated to by his talent six his move from Barcelona at the age of just 16. Despite the barely legal tapping of the player by the same club, he has repeatedly committed his future to Arsenal as soon as any rumour of him leaving has arisen – a stark contrast to many players, including a Mr. Adebayor. Cesc will be a pivotal part of Arsenal’s season without a doubt, and can only continue to improve at his young age in playing for one of the bets sides in British football – and, indeed, worldwide.

--
Name: Samir Nasri
Age: 22
Number: 8
Position: CAM
FIFA-Pro Rating: 83
Nationality: French
Previous Clubs: Marseille.

Bio: A £12m capture from Marseille at the beginning of last year, Nasri has proven to many Gunners that he can do the job, and many also believe he’s better than his predecessor. Aliaksander Hleb left the club at the same time as Nasri arrived, citing stressful loud London life as the excuse to leave for the quiet Spanish hamlet of Barcelona. The funds were put towards Nasri, and soon after his move he found he could do what Hleb couldn’t – score. A rocket against Man United helped the Gunners into a 2-1 win over their rivals, and Samir enjoyed a productive rest of the season, notching seven from midfield in 41 appearances. An unfortunate training incident broke Samir’s right fibula in pre season, and as a result he’ll miss the first eight weeks of the season. When he gets back, Arsenal will be reacquiring a true talent.

--
Name: Tomas Rosicky
Age: 28
Number: 8
Position: CAM
FIFA-Pro Rating: 82
Nationality: Czechslovakian
Previous Clubs: CKD Compensory, Sparta Prague, BVB Borussia Dortmund.

Bio: Injuries have plagued Mr. Rosicky since his arrival from Borussia Dortmund for around £6.8m in the summer of 2006. Tomas started his last Premiership game in 2007, and suffered a rare tendon injury that kept him out for over a year. Constant niggles to this injury made the recovery time longer and longer and longer, until the Czech international made a return in an Arsenal shirt in pre season against Barnet. He had the ball in the net inside ten minutes – although it was offside, it was a statement of intent, no doubt. Another niggle arose however, and Tomas will miss August and perhaps some of September with his new injury. Should he come back fighting fit, he’ll be almost like a new signing.

--
Name: Denilson
Age: 21
Number: 15
Position: CM
FIFA-Pro Rating: 78
Nationality: Brazilian
Previous Clubs: Sao Paolo.

Bio: One of Wengers captured youth products, Denilson arrived at Arsenal at the tender age of 18 and has since been slowly maturing into a capable, cool, controlled midfielder. Trained the Wenger way to pass and move, the Brazilian is showing some serious promise, and is one of the favourites to partner Cesc Fabregas this season. Competition for places in the first team side between himself, Abou Diaby and Alex Song should be intense this year, with all three of the young prodigies looking to impress and nail down a starting place.
--

--
Name: Abou Diaby
Age: 23
Number: 2
Position: CM
FIFA-Pro Rating: 78
Nationality: French
Previous Clubs: Auxerre.

Bio: Another young developing central midfielder at Arsenal, Abou is yet another Gunner plagued with injuries. A metatarsal break soon into his Arsenal career saw the Frenchman sidelined for six months, and since then niggles have seen him in and out of the side. Now enjoying a vein of good fitness, Diaby will look to capture the quality that saw him graduate the famous Clairfontaine Academy near Paris, the leadership that saw him captain the U19 French side to victory in the 2005 European Championship and the composure that saw him convert his spot kick in a penalty shoot out in Rome.

--
Name: Alex Song
Age: 22
Number: 17
Position: CDM/CB.
FIFA-Pro Rating: 79
Nationality: Cameroonian.
Previous Clubs: Bastia.

Bio: Often criticised for poor performances, Alex began to show the doubters just where they’d gone wrong last season. A reasonable season was capped with outstanding performances in the last two months of the season, the Cameroonian putting in stellar defensive displays in front of the Arsenal back four and even grabbing a goal after a stunning solo run against Blackburn Rovers. Such performances showed exactly how strong Arsenal could be when they had an established defensive midfielder.

--
Name: Jack Wilshere
Age: 17
Number: 19
Position: RM
FIFA-Pro Rating: 73
Nationality: English
Previous Clubs: N/A.

Bio: The most promising English midfielder since Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard? To some. Inevitable comparisons with Theo Walcott have already arisen with young Jacko, and after an incredible pre season it’s easy to see why! Two goals against Scottish side Rangers in a 3-0 romp, combined with ninety minutes of taking the poor left back apart wedged Wilshere in the minds of many at the game, and at just seventeen the potential seems to be limitless. Confident on the ball, technically gifted and with an eye for goal, Wilshere could fit into many first team sides in the Premiership. His impact on Arsenal this season will be interesting indeed to watch.

--
Name: Aaron Ramsey
Age: 19
Number: 16
Position: CM
FIFA-Pro Rating: 74
Nationality: Welsh
Previous Clubs: Cardiff City.

Bio: Costing £5m from Cardiff City, Arsenal were able to step past interest from Manchester United and Everton to grab young Aaron fro his countries biggest club. Since then he has come on in leaps and bounds, from a good young player to potential prodigy. No lack of confidence from the youngster, with his only goal of last season a twenty yard belter against Fenerbache in the Champions League. Another contestant for the Arsenal central midfield, his tenacity and passing ability make him a contender to play alongside Cesc in the middle. Watch this space…

--
Name: Emmanuel Eboue
Age: 26
Number: 27
Position: RM/RB
FIFA-Pro Rating: 78
Nationality: Ivorian
Previous Clubs: Asec Mimosas, Beveren.

Bio: Quite a character, Emmanuel. One of the most popular in the dressing room and apparently an avid dancer (judging by his goal celebrations), Eboue has been at all ends of the Arsenal fan spectrum – hated, loved and just there. Odd performances, a tendency to make silly dives and a simple inability to pass the ball saw him booed in stages at the Emirates during the 2007/2009 season. Last season, however, saw him capture some very good form as a utility player, and he was even christened a ‘Goal Machine’ by the Arsenal tannoy after scoring three in two games. His versatility, work rate and ability have seen him play right across the park for Arsenal, making over 140 appearances since 2004.

[Muzzy]

--
Name: Andrey Arshavin
Age: 28
Number: 23
Position: CF
FIFA-Pro Rating: 85
Nationality: Russian
Previous Clubs: Zenit-2, Zenit St. Petersburg.

Bio: The product of one of Arsenal’s most expensive transfers in recent history and over six months of speculation, Andrey Arshavin graced the Premiership with the Gunners for the first time in January 2009, after signing from Zenit St. Petersburg for undisclosed fee believed to be around 18m. Many doubted the impact the Russian could have at the beginning of his move, especially after having to come from close season in Russia – no previous match experience could benefit his fitness. Those doubts were blown apart by the short Russki, as consecutive incredible performances saw the 223 explode onto the English scene. Incredible games against Blackburn (involving an outrageous goal from a wild angle) and his part in the draw against Liverpool (Liverpool 4 – 4 Arshavin, it ended) lodged him firmly in the consciousness of Premiership viewers, and the expectation for him to perform this season is rather heavy.

--
Name: Nicklas Bendtner
Age: 21
Number: 52
Position: ST
FIFA-Pro Rating: 78
Nationality: Danish
Previous Clubs: FC Copenhagen.

Bio: Since joining The Gunners from FC Copenhagen back in 2004, he has taken perhaps more than his fair share of criticism. Gradually edging closer and closer to the first team line up, his quality has been questioned far more than is fair, especially last season’s finishing. However, while Bendtner may have missed a fair few last season he also scored 15 in all competitions; one of the best strike rates of a third choice striker in the Premiership that year. Still at the young age of 21, the towering striker has the physical presence to worry even the biggest of centre backs, and the technical ability and footwork to leave them in the dust. With the departure of Emmanuel Adebayor, who hasn’t proved to be Nicklas’ best friend in his time at the club, the door is open for Bendtner to push for a place up front in the starting line up, and prove to be yet another of Arsene Wenger’s undiscovered gems.

--
Name: Eduardo Da Silva
Age: 26
Number: 9
Position: ST
FIFA-Pro Rating: 82
Nationality: Croatian
Previous Clubs: CBF Nova Kennedy, Bangu Atletico Club, Inter Zapresic, Dinamo Zagreb.

Bio: Twelve goals in his first half a season proves that donning the #9 shirt formerly worn by Jose Reyes was not a bad omen for Eduardo. His superb eye for goal and icy cool finishing had helped Arsenal to the top of the table, where they sat happily until his untimely departure from football for a while. A shocking challenge from Birmingham defender Martin Taylor shattered a number of bones in the Croatian’s leg, leaving him unable to play for the next year and questioning his ability to ever play football again. Finding some outrageous well of physical and mental resistance, the 26 year old worked his way back from the awful incident to make four appearances last year, including his first international goal since returning and a simply stunning volley against Burnley in the League Cup. Having gotten past the series of niggles that followed the horrific injury , Gunners fans will look to see if Eduardo can capture the form that shot Arsenal to the top of the table way back in his first season.

--
Name: Robin Van Persie
Age: 26
Number: 11
Position: LF
FIFA-Pro Rating: 84
Nationality: Dutch
Previous Clubs: Feyenoord.

Bio: Arsenal’s #11 joined the club in 2004, and such was Wengers faith in the youth that he made his debut against Manchester United in the Community Shield just days later. He notched his first goal in October that year, and since then has never scored below 9 goals in any season – a formidable feat when you remember how many injuries have set back Robin over the past few years. Metatarsel problems, thigh injuries and a persistant knee ligament issue have badgered Robin throughout his red and white career, but the Dutchman is still capable of sublime skill and outrageous goals despite his many previous setbacks. He notched his highest goal tally ever in a season last year, smashing 20 past opposition goalkeepers including a dream effort past Liverpool, two against Chelsea and a penalty against Manchester United in the Champions League semi final. Goals in such big games and such pressure prove the caliber of the player if any were left to doubt it, and should the Dutchman have an injury free campaign he could be one of the most formidable strikers worldwide, never mind just the Premier League.

--
Name: Carlos Vela
Age: 20
Number: 12
Position: ST
FIFA-Pro Rating: 76
Nationality: Mexican
Previous Clubs: Guadalajara, UD Salamanca (loan), Osasuna (loan).

Bio: One of Wengers most inconvenient transfers in… well, ever, Carlos Vela had to spend two seasons on loan in Spain before even meeting up with the Arsenal squad and whacking on a red and white shirt. The Mexican had some serious trouble obtaining papers and a work permit, both of which are required by individuals who want to play football in this country, so the youngster spent his first year as an Arsenal player wearing Salamanca colors. Despite being played out of position as a left forward or even as a left winger, Carlos struck eight past Segunda opposition in the 31 games he played for the club. Upon arrival back to England he discovered his papers would take another year to push through, but this time more high profile clubs were in line to take him on loan. Osasuna became the agreed destination, and the Mexican U21 international made 33 appearances that season, though only scoring three. Last season was Carlos’ first with the Gunners, and he made no mistake in making an impression, scoring his first (three) goals in a romp over Sheffield United.

--
Name: Theo Walcott
Age: 20
Number: 14
Position: RW
FIFA-Pro Rating: 81
Nationality: English
Previous Clubs: Southampton.

Bio: England’s most expensive teenager was just coming into his own when injury cut last season short for Theo Walcott. His unbelievable pace and eye for goal had served him well, with a goal of pure speed against Fenerbache and a stunning chip against Villarreal evidence of what the youth can already do on the biggest stages of them all. If that wasn’t enough, how about an international hat trick for his country? Unfortunately for young Theo, a shoulder injury during international duty forced him out of many big games for the Gunners last season, including the Champions League semi finals and vital league games that saw Arsenal creep back into fourth place and then explode away from European rivals. Once the youth gets back to fitness, he’ll look to recapture the form that earned him the big money move to Arsenal from Southampton, and ascend back to the stupendous heights he has previously achieved before his 20th birthday.

[Muzzy]

--
Name: Arsene Wenger
Age: 59
Role: Manager
Playing Career: 1969 - 1981
Previous Clubs (player): AS Mutzig, Mulhouse, ASPV Strasbourg, RC Strasbourg.
Previous Clubs (staff): Nancy, Monaco, Grampus Eight.

Bio: .

Arsene Wenger was an average player, by his own admittance. Spending his greatest playing days as a midfielder with ASPV Strasbourg, young Arsene was never going to set the world stage on fire.

Was he?

Three years after his career ended with a fizzle, making just eleven appearances in three campaigns at RC Strasbourg, Wenger took on the managers role at AS Nancy in 1984. Once again he failed to make a huge impression, and was fired after his third season when Nancy were relegated. His footballing career finally took off after his appointment as the manager of AS Monaco in 1988; things finally started to come together as Wenger guided the side to the French Ligue 1 title in his first season in charge. He made key signings such as future world cup winner Yourri Djorkaeff, who scored 20 in Wenger’s final season in charge. Bayern Munich attempted to steal Wenger away, only for Monaco to block talks – a few weeks later Wenger was surprisingly released from his role, after the Munich position had been filled. It’s also worth mentioning that, whilst at Monaco, Wenger worked with a young French attacker called Thierry Henry.

Always one for travelling (Arsene is fluent in English, French, Spanish and German, as well as dabbling in Italian and Japanese), the Frenchman then spent a year at the helm of Nagoya Grampus Eight, where he worked with current Arsenal first team coach Boro Primorac. He won the Japanese equivalent of the F.A Cup in his time there, the Emperors Cup, and took the club from third bottom in the Japanese League to runners up.

In 1999, he was brought to Arsenal to replace the departing Bruce Rioch. This is where things got fun.

After missing out on Champions League qualification purely on goal difference to then powerful Newcastle United, the Gunners claimed their first double in over fifteen years in Wenger’s second season in charge. The Gunners caught a Manchester United side who were once twelve points clear at the top, and secured the championship with two games to spare. The next season Arsenal reached an F.A Cup semi final and missed out on retaining their title on the last day of the season, by a single point. Near misses in the UEFA Cup Final against Galatasaray in 2000 and F.A Cup final to Liverpool in 2001 caused Wenger to bring in some help with a bit of surprise – he raided White Hart Lane for their best player, Sol Campbell, who was brought in on a free. Other signings included Robert Pires, Frederik Ljungberg and Thierry Henry.
These signings secured the Gunners a second double in the 2001/2002 campaign, as goals from Ray Parlour and Ljungberg took down Chelsea in the last fifteen minutes on the F.A Cup final after Sylvain Wiltord had secured the Premiership title with the goal that grabbed a 1-0 victory over contenders Manchester United at Old Trafford. Arsenal couldn’t retain the title in the next season, though they did beat Southampton to retain their F.A Cup.

In 2004, Arsenal made history in becoming only the third team to go unbeaten in a season in elite European football. They took the Premiership title without losing a single game of all 38, and their unbeaten run would reach 49 before defeat against United.

In 2005 they claimed the F.A Cup with a penalty shootout victory against United again, but this would be the last trophy the’d claim in recent history. Now having gone four years on the bounce without a trophy (though coming close countless times; a Champions league final in 2006, a League Cup final in 2008 and various semi finals in all competitions have been all that stood between Arsenal and a trophy). This is the season that Wenger has to have his players stand up and fight for what they should be winning by now – trophies. Can he achieve the greatest feat he could in the eyes of Arsenal fans this season? To bring home a trophy?

--
Name: Pat Rice
Age: 60
Role: Head Coach
Playing Career: 1964 – 1984.
Previous Clubs (player): Arsenal, Watford.
Previous Clubs (staff): N/A.

Bio: Regarded as a legend by Arsenal fans old enough to know him, Pat Rice has been serving the Gunners for over forty years. Making his debut as a sixteen year old in right back for Arsenal, the Northern Irish international made a massive 397 appearances for Arsenal, before moving to Watford after a sixteen year long spell at Highbury. Another 114 appearances (in just four season, may I add) at Vicarage Road saw him end his footballing days as a player – but his footballing career was far from over. He rejoined Arsenal as coach of the youth team in 1984, winning the Youth League twice. The sacking of Bruce Rioch in 1995 gave Rice a brief stint as manager of Arsenal, and even from his caretaker role he guided the Gunners to winning three of the four games he was in charge for before the appointment of Arsene Wenger. Upon the Frenchman’s arrival Pat became his #2, and has remained as such ever since.

--
Name: Boro Primorac
Age: 54
Role: First Team Coach
Playing Career: 1972 - 1990
Previous Clubs (player): Velez Mostar, Hadjuk Split, Lille, Cannes.
Previous Clubs (staff): Cannes, Valenciennes, Guinea, Grampus Eight.

Bio: “Who?” is probably the question forming on your lips. The answer to that question is one of the best technical coaches in the world, the captain of the tough Yugoslavia side in the late 1970’s and one of the hardiest tacklers in his day that there ever was. Boro made an incredible 634 appearences for his four clubs, scoring ninety goals across his career as a defender. He finished fourth with his national team at the 1980 Olympics, and after retirement in 1990 immediately took a coaching job as his final club, Cannes. After stints with Valenciennes, Guinea and Grampus Eight (where he worked alongside Arsene Wenger), he was recruited into the Arsenal ransk in 1997.

--
Name: Gerry Peyton
Age: 53
Role: Goalkeeping Coach
Playing Career: 1974 - 1994
Previous Clubs (player): Athertstone Town, Burnley, Fulham, Bournemouth, Everton, West Ham United.
Previous Clubs (staff): Vissel Kobe, Jubilo Iwata, AIK, Fulham, Arsenal.

Bio: Gerry has served for an outrageous number of clubs over a glittering football career, never out of the game since arriving as a youngster in 1974. He made 33 appearances for the Republic Of Ireland over his career, and after retirement in 1994 he made his way to Japan, serving as a goalkeeping coach for sides Vissel Kobe and Jubilo Iwata, before making a return to Europe with Swedish side AIK and Fulham. He made the transition to Highbury in 2003.

--
Name: Colin Lewin
Age: 36
Role: Head Physio
Playing Career: N/A.
Previous Clubs (player): N/A.
Previous Clubs (staff): N

/A.

Bio: Famous by relation stereotype Colin Lewin is the largely unknown cousin of legendary physio and club doctor Gary Lewin, who’d spent 23 years at the club before his move to the full time job of England national team physio. Colin, who’d spent 13 years as his cousin’s deputy, has stepped up to take his place; this won’t largely change his role, however, as he was part of an integral team run by Gary that has been working like clockwork behind the scenes for a long while.

[Muzzy]

Arsenal
Nickname: The Gunners.
Manager: Arsene Wenger.
Key Player: Cesc Fabregas.
Home Ground: Emirates Stadium (60,355).
Last season: 4th.
Biggest arrival: Tomas Vermaelen (Ajax), £10m.
Biggest departure: Emmanuel Adebayor (Man City), £25m.

Bio: Despite criticism in the depth of their squad, the youth of the players and the pedantic nature of the manager, Arsenal fans are confident their side can defend their Champions League spot with ease. The Gunners looked to struggle in certain parts of last season, losing games that should have been won against sides such as Stoke City and Hull City, but caught up with their European rivals and surpassed them by comfortable margins.

Aston Villa
Nickname: The Villains.
Manager: Martin O'Neill.
Key Player: Ashley Young.
Home Ground: Villa Park (42,640).
Last Season: 6th.
Biggest arrival: Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), £12m.
Biggest departure: Gareth Barry (Man City), £12m.

Bio: One of teams that came closest to breaking the big four last season, Aston Villa had an incredible run of games before an unexpected streak of awful results that saw them slip down the table, and eventually end up 6th. The progress they have made in the last few years has been promising, and with young Englinsham in the side such as Ashley Young, Gabriel Agbonlahor and James Milner, many an eye – not least of all that of Fabio Capello – will be on Villa Park this season.

Birmingham City
Nickname: The Blues.
Last Season: 2nd (Championship).
Manager: Alex McLeish.
Key Player: Sebastien Larsson.
Home Ground: St. Andrews Stadium (30,009).
Biggest arrival: Christian Benitez (Santos Laguna), £6.5m.
Biggest departure: Mehdi Nafti (Aris Thessalonki), £0.

Bio: One of the new boys this year, but not unknown faces in the Premier League; Birmingham have been up and down like yo-yo’s in recent years. This year they look to mount their challenge for survival with some intent, bringing in big names such as Cristian Benitez from Brazil, a player who many believe to be above City’s stature. Combine this with experienced manager Alex McLeish at the helm, and a strong hunger to stay up this time around, the Blues should be no pushover fixture this year.

Blackburn Rovers
Nickname: Rovers.
Manager: Sam Allardyce.
Key Player: Morten Gamst Pedersen.
Home Ground: Ewood Park (31,367)
Last Season: 15th.
Biggest arrival: Michel Salgado (Free Agent), £0.
Biggest departure: Roque Santa Cruz (Man City), £17m.

Bio: The loss of star striker Roque Santa Cruz will be felt heavily by Rovers, losing their star man in one of Manchester City’s earliest summer swoops. An underpar finish from the blue and whites last season saw them finish just three places off a relegation zone, and any regulars at Ewood Park will be desperate to see a serious improvement in performance in 2010.

Bolton Wanderers
Nickname: The Trotters.
Manager: Gary Megson.
Key Player: Jussi Jääskeläinen.
Home Ground: The Reebok Stadium (28,723).
Last Season: 13th.
Biggest arrival: Zat Knight (Aston Villa), £4m.
Biggest departure: Blerim Dzemali (Torinio), undisc.

Bio: Wanderers have done wonders to keep their side together this year, fending interest off on players such as Johan Elmander and Fabrice Muamba; the only sale this year has been of a player that made one appearance in two years. Bold diehards at the Reebok believe this side could push for the Intertoto Cup; a much more realistic vision is a midtable finish.

[Muzzy]

Burnley
Nickname: The Clarets.
Manager: Owen Coyle.
Key Player: Brian Jensen.
Home Ground: Turf Moor (22,546).
Last Season: 5th (Championship, promoted via playoffs).
Biggest arrival: Steven Fletcher (Hibernian), £3m.
Biggest departure: Gabor Kiraly (1860 Munich, free).

Bio: The bookies favorites to go down this year, and not without reason: Burnley were surprise winners of the play offs and even staff and players at the club were not expecting promotion so soon. Nevertheless, it takes some serious quality and some serious character to gain promotion to arguably the best league in the world, and if Burnley can bring that bookies may be in trouble.

Chelsea
Nickname: The Blues.
Manager: Guus Hiddink.
Key Player: Frank Lampard.
Home Ground: Stamford Bridge (40,055).
Last Season: 3rd.
Biggest arrival: Yuri Zhirkov (CSKA Moscow), undisc.
Biggest departure: Ricardo Quaresma (Internazionale), end of loan.

Bio: In contrast to Burnley, the Blues are tipped to win the Premiership this year following the weakening of their rivals Manchester United and Liverpool. The London club have held together a core of fantastic players, beating away teams like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Manchester City to retain heroes such as club captain John Terry. With a squad capable of defeating any side in the world, the future looks bright for Chelsea this season.

Everton
Nickname: The Toffees.
Manager: David Moyes.
Key Player: Mikel Arteta.
Home Ground: Goodison Park (40,158).
Last Season: 5th.
Biggest arrival: Jo (Man City), loan.
Biggest departure: Joleon Lescott (Man City), £22m.

Bio: A burst of form at the finish gave the Toffees the chance to push into fifth past Aston Villa in the final few weeks of the season. One of the strongest teams outside the ‘Big Four’, Goodison Park is known to footballers country-wide to be a tough place to gain any points from, let alone all three. Everton would do well to maintain their fortress’ impact this season.

Fulham
Nickname: The Cottagers.
Manager: Roy Hodgson.
Key Player: Andy Johnson.
Home Ground: Craven Cottage (25,678).
Last Season: 7th.
Biggest arrival: Damien Duff (Newcastle), undisc.
Biggest departure: Leon Andreasen (Hannover 96), £0.

Bio: The shock names from the Premiership to gain a place in the UEFA Cup, ahead of far more likely names like Portsmouth and Sunderland, Fulham have punched well above their own weight this season. Victories against massive clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal helped them on their way, as well as huge impact signings like the Norweigan center back Brede Hangeland providing a solid rock for the side to build on.

Hull City
Nickname: The Tigers.
Manager: Phil Brown.
Key Player: Giovanni.
Home Ground: KC Stadium (25,404).
Last Season: 17th.
Biggest arrival: Karmel Ghilas (Celta Vigo), undisc.
Biggest departure: Dean Windass (N/A), released.

Bio: Results on the last day of the season kept the Tigers up at the expense of Newcastle United and Middlesbrough. Their early season form had been incredible, with playmaker Giovanni becoming a fan facourite almost overnight with stunning strikes against North London clubs Arsenal and Tottenham. That same early form, if recaptured, could see the northern club do a damn sight better than 17th this season. .

[Muzzy]

Liverpool
Nickname: The Reds.
Manager: Rafael Benitez.
Key Player: Steven Gerrard.
Home Ground: Anfield (45,276).
Last Season: 2nd.
Biggest arrival: Alberto Aquilani (AS Roma), £25m.
Biggest departure: Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), £30m.

Bio: Many argue that the Liverpool squad has been weakened this season, with the departure of holding midfielder Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid, and the exit of Arbeloa the same way. Rafael Benitez has attempted to patch the gaps with big signings Glen Johnson from Portsmouth and Alberto Aquilani from a struggling AS Roma, but many can’t help but wonder if these will be enough to keep Liverpool surging forward in the way they’ve done in recent seasons.

Man City
Nickname: The Blues.
Manager: Mark Hughes.
Key Player: Emmanuel Adebayor.
Home Ground: City Of Manchester Stadium (47,726).
Last Season: 10th.
Biggest arrival: Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal), £25m.
Biggest departure: Elano (Galatasaray), £8m.

Bio: The big spenders of the transfer window this season, the light blue side of Manchester has been criticized by many managers along their way to acquiring some of the worlds finest talent – including negative comments from one Roman Abramovich. This hasn’t stopped Mark Hughes spending more than enough to assemble a squad worthy of any competition in the world, with faces such as Gareth Barry, Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor in the blue shirt.

Man United
Nickname: The Red Devils.
Manager: Sir Alex Ferguson.
Key Player: Wayne Rooney.
Home Ground: Old Trafford (76,212).
Last Season: 1st.
Biggest arrival: Antonio Valencia (£17m), Wigan Athletic.
Biggest departure: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid), £80m.

Bio: Receivers of the biggest transfer fee ever paid for a player, United have done seemingly little to replace their hero Cristiano Ronaldo. The signing of Antonio Valencia showed some intent, as did the acquisition of Michael Owen from Newcastle, but other than these names the Red Devils have done little to strengthen. AS old faces such as Gary Neville, Paul Schools and Ryan Gigs edge closer and closer to retirement, you can’t help but wonder of the capability the Reds still have in holding on to their precious title…

Portsmouth
Nickname: Pompey.
Manager: Paul Hart.
Key Player: Papa Bouba Diop.
Home Ground: Fratton Park (20, 688).
Last Season: 14th.
Biggest arrival: Steve Finnan (Espanyol), undisc.
Biggest departure: Peter Crouch (Tottenham Hotspurs), £9m.

Bio: A financially troubled Pompey have bought and sold very cleverly this transfer window, making a whole lotta’ money in the process. Peter Crouch has been replaced by loan signing Frederique Piquionne, Glen Johnson replaced by Genoa full back Anthony Vanden Borre on loan… the list of sell high, buy low this year stretches for quite a while. That said, Pompey struggled last year despite their big names – will these replacements be able to improve their poor form and, if so, will they be made permanent?

Stoke City
Nickname: The Potters.
Manager: Tony Pulis.
Key Player: Tuncay Sanli.
Home Ground: Britannia Stadium, (28,383).
Last Season: 12th.
Biggest arrival: Tuncay Sanli (Middlesbrough), £5m.
Biggest departure: Seyi Olofinjana (Hull City), £3m.

Bio: For a newly promoted club, last season saw Stoke punch well above their weight. Overcoming Premiership heavyweights Arsenal along the way to finishing above established Premiership clubs such a Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers is no easy feat for Premiership new boys, and Stoke have shown even more intent to improve with the signing of big names Robert Huth and Tuncay Sanli from relegated Middlesborough, both Premiership regulars.

[Muzzy]

Sunderland
Nickname: The Black Cats.
Manager: Steve Bruce.
Key Player: Lorik Cana.
Home Ground: Stadium Of Light (49,000).
Last Season: 16th.
Biggest arrival: Darren Bent (Tottenham Hotspur), £10m.
Biggest departure: Michael Chopra (Cardiff), £4m.

Bio: The ‘poor man’s Man City’, if you will, Sunderland have had no fear of buying this summer. Established first team regulars such as Lorik Cana, previously of Marseilles, Lee Cattermole (previously of Wigan), and Michael Turner (previously of Hull City) have joined new manager Steve Bruce at the Stadium Of Light, and fans of the Black Cats can look forward to seeing a stronger side than many in the Premier League face a year without their Tyneside rivals.

Tottenham Hotspur
Nickname: The Yids.
Manager: Harry Redface.
Key Player: Robbie Keane.
Home Ground: White Hart Lane (36,310).
Last Season: 8th.
Biggest arrival: Peter Crouch (Portsmouth), £9m.
Biggest departure: Darren Bent (Sunderland), £10m.

Bio: Perhaps an underperforming club in recent years, there is no doubt that Spurs have the quality to give many a team a run for their money. Players such as Luka Modric are sought after by many top outfits in the world, and Mr. Redknapp will be hoping to finally be the man to convert the quality into success after his appointment last term.

West Ham United
Nickname: The Hammers.
Manager: Gianfranco Zola.
Key Player: Mattew Upson.
Home Ground: Upton Park (35,303).
Last Season: 9th.
Biggest arrival: Alessandro Diamanti (Livorno), £5m.
Biggest departure: Lee Bowyer (Birmingham, free).

Bio: Regulars in the Premiership yet unexcitingly mid table each season, West Ham are considered by some (naïve) fans simply to fill up the spaces in the footballing calendar. Regulars to Upton Park know that this simply isn’t the case, and with a host of talented players such as Carlton Cole, Dean Ashton and Scott Parker enjoying their prime (or just entering it), as well as new impressive signings like Alessandro Diamanti, AND a knowledgeable, influential manager in Gianfranco Zola, that the Hammers will be hard to beat.

Wigan Athletic
Nickname: The Latics.
Manager: Roberto Martínez.
Key Player: Chris Kirkland.
Home Ground: JJB Stadium (25,138).
Last Season: 11th.
Biggest arrival: Jason Scotland (Swansea), £2m.
Biggest departure: Antonio Valencia (Man United), £17m.

Bio: A side that has developed into a solid Premiership outfit since their promotion a few years ago, Wigan fans may be hopeful their side can push for the Intertoto Cup this season. The loss of star player Antonio Valencia may be a thorn in their side towards this goal, but the signing of young hungry players like Jason Scotland from Swansea should help them push on towards their cause.

Wolverhampton Wanderers
Nickname: The Wolves.
Manager: Mick McCarthy.
Key Player: Andy Keogh.
Home Ground: Molineux (29,400).
Last Season: 1st (Championship).
Biggest arrival: Ronald Zubar (Marseille), undisc.
Biggest departure: Darren Porter (Sheff. Wednesday), undisc.

Bio: Champions of the Championship, Wolves are no strangers to the Premier League; they just don’t stay here for long. After being relegated in 2004 the boys in orange plummeted as far as nineteenth in the Championship table, but have since been pushing closer and closer to the top of the league before promotion this year. After a wait of five years, fans will be desperate that their side hold on to their prestigious spot in the league.

[Muzzy]

Articles:
Wenger - No More!
Triple Injury Bout; Arsenal In Crisis?
A Tragedy For World Football
A Tragedy For World Football
Silvestre Leaves Arsenal; Gooners Delighted
No More? Apparently Not...
Caution: Hazardous Area
Palombo Off To Spain; Arsenal Nab Centre Back
Young Guns To Get Their Chance
Rosicky Back In Training

Match Previews/Reports:
Preview #1 - Arsenal v Burnley
Preview #2 - Arsenal v Everton
Preview #3 - Arsenal v Schalke 04
Preview #4 - Arsenal v OGC Nice
Preview #5 - Arsenal v Portsmouth
Preview #6 - Arsenal v Liverpool
Preview #7 - Arsenal v Chelsea
Preview #8 - Arsenal v Tottenham
Preview #9 - N/A
Preview #10 - Arsenal v Huddersfield

Match #1 - Arsenal v Burnley
Match #2 - Arsenal v Everton
Match #3 - Arsenal v Schalke 04
Match #4 - Arsenal v OGC Nice
Match #5 - Arsenal v Portsmouth
Match #6 - Arsenal v Liverpool
Match #7 - Arsenal v Chelsea
Match #8 - Arsenal v Tottenham
Match #9 - Arsenal v Burnley
Match #10 - Arsenal v Huddersfield

Legend Watches:
Dennis Bergkamp

Guess The Players:
#1 - Alex Manninger
#2 - Pascal Cygan
#3 - Andy Cole

[Muzzy]

You may post ladies and gents, thanks for your patience. .

[DannyB]

Lot of reserves

[Davee1]

lots of reserves
Good luck mate
I like you're OP Graphic mate

[KingCantona07]

Good start.

A bit of constructive criticism though- I think the white font is too light on this background, but its up to you

[sam.]

Good luck dude!
Ooh, to, ooh to be, ooh to be a.. GOONER!

[DannyB]

THe honours graphic

You making an Arsenal FC horror film or something?

[Muzzy]

Originally Posted by DannyB

Lot of reserves

Because I have too much epicness to stick all in one post.

Originally Posted by Davee1

lots of reserves
Good luck mate
I like you're OP Graphic mate

Ty mate, I'm not the greatest at graphics so I'm glad you like it.

Originally Posted by KingCantona07

Good start.

A bit of constructive criticism though- I think the white font is too light on this background, but its up to you

This is true, I should've thought of that earlier. I'll change the font to black at some point. Thanks for pointing it out.

Originally Posted by Theo14Cesc4

Good luck dude!
Ooh, to, ooh to be, ooh to be a.. GOONER!

.

Originally Posted by DannyB

THe honours graphic

You making an Arsenal FC horror film or something?

Possibly.

Update coming after I've shuffled some graphics.

[SAFC_Broady]

Awesome Start Muzzy

[Muzzy]

Originally Posted by SAFC_Broady

Awesome Start Muzzy

Thanks fella. .

History up, if anyone feels like a read. .

[rrrobyn]

The Martin Keown pic made me LOL

Great start so far

[sam.]

History's great, not too long, not too short, great work.
Seeing as I was only seven when it happened, I don't have the greatest memory of the Invincibles, but wasn't the game we lost to Man United 2-0, not 3-1?