The month of April could be a time for jubilation or the beginning of despair until August. For many Gooners, it has been the latter for the past five Aprils that we been through. It does not look like it is going to change this April too.
We have been dumped out from the Champions' League in the early part of the month. Then we lost a League 'derby' for the first time in a decade, which did not spell the end right away for the title challenge as other contenders suffered setbacks in the programme too.
Unfortunately, when we thought we have shown enough character to remain in the hunt, we also showed that we also have the other side to our character. Losing 3-2 after leading by two goals with just about ten minutes left at Wigan certainly ended our faint hopes of a silverware this season.
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez who in some quarters believed to be a younger clone of Arsene Wenger due to his belief in playing the passing game would be very glad to get one over the master himself. I would not be surprised if he is being earmarked to fill the hot seat at the Emirates if Wenger himself decides to leave for a new project.
Since his arrival I have been a keen supporter of Lukasz Fabianski and would not have any qualm in defending him for his so called 'blunders'. However, it seems the frequency of these blunders have been quite high and most of the time would be costly. Wenger may have his own opinion but right now I feel we need a more solid goalkeeper at the heart of our defence.
The review has been good about another Pole custodian, Wojciech Szczesny currently on loan at the lower league with Brentford. Like another young goalkeeper in the Gunners' book Vito Mannone, he seems to benefit from playing in the lower divisions where the game is more physical in addition to more playing time which for a goalkeeper is very important to keep him in match shape.
Hugo Lloris or Manuel Neuer would be most welcomed by many Gooners but the asking price would probably turn off Wenger. But with many Belgians currently plying their trade in the Premier League and the success of Thomas Vermaellen this season there could be a hint of possibility that Wenger would attempt to bring Belgium current #1, Logan Bailly from German club Borrusia Monchengladbach.
Many would say that Arsenal lack the strength in depth and this season's injury list seems to be giving the statement its credence. But with many youngsters going out on loan this season to gain the necessary experience they would add more strength to the squad next season. Thus I would think there would only just be two new signings, three at the most be made during the close season.
Right now Wenger would be focusing on this weekend clash Manchester City. A win would certainly cement their grip on third place which is essential in order not to rush players too soon after their World Cup campaign in order to play in the play-off matches before the group stage. As for me, a win is just perfect after the suffering that we have endured at the hand of City in the league and cup this season.
C'mon you Gooners!
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