Sunday Odds and Ends

Here’s a few odds and ends to think about on this beautiful Sunday morning…

Following Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Rangers, Mikel Arteta told Arsenal.com, “I’m really pleased with the performance. I think we dominated the game, we created so many chances – I counted about 8 or 10 chances. We should have scored many more goals, and with the quality of the players we have up front, they have to demand more of themselves.” Oh boy, how many times did we hear that quote last season. The object of the game is to not only to create chances, but to put the ball in the back of the net as well. This season can not be a repeat performance of last season, when goals were few and far between.

Congrats to Nuno Tavares on his first goal as an Arsenal player! It only took the fullback 23 minutes to find the back of the net v Rangers. So far, so good Mr. Tavares!

The Gunners have already given up four goals in their two preseason games. Even worse, three of those goals came off set pieces.

For some reason, Arsenal keep making bids for Sassuolo and Italy midfielder Manuel Locatelli even though he “absolutely” wants to play for Juventus. Locatelli told Sky Sports Italia he would rather stay in Sassuolo than go to Arsenal. I thinks it’s time to cross his name off Arsenal’s most wanted list.

Now that the Gunners have returned to London, it appears the announcement of 23-year-old Albert Sambi Lokonga is drawing near. The club would like to have the midfielder signed, sealed and delivered in time to travel with the club to Orlando on Wednesday.

Sky Sports is reporting the Ben White deal is all but done and that the Brighton defender will take his medical in London once he returns from his Greek holiday on July 26th.

Okay, as the transfer wheels keep turning in north London, I am still very concerned about having our goalkeeping situation finalized by August 13th. So far, we have only seen keeper #3 and keeper #4 in preseason. Leno will be retuning soon, however, will he have any competition for the #1 spot, or will he even have a bonafide back-up? I’m sure there is a plan, but I’m still nervous at this point.

And finally…what’s up with the Granit Xhaka transfer? According to Sports Mole, the Swiss midfielder is pressing hard for the move to Roma. Gazetta dello Sport reports Xhaka is prepared to even take a pay cut to join Jose Mourinho’s side this summer, however, Arsenal and Roma are finding it difficult agreeing on a transfer fee for Mr. Xhaka. Still, I predict he will play for the Series A club this season.

That’s it. Enjoy your Sunday, and cheers!

Gunner1953