Monday’s Odds and Ends – Updated

It’s a new week, and hopefully a better one for Gooner Nation. Games at Southampton and Sheffield United are in the wings.

So, let’s get started with a few headlines from England that should spark some conversation and debate this week.

David Ornstein of The Athletic is reporting “Arsenal preparations for Premier League return were thrown into chaos when a player tested positive for COVID-19 and 2 more had been in “close contact.” Trio missed 3 days training before negative tests cleared all three on eve of Man City train/play.”

The Mirror Football reported earlier in the day Guendouzi could have faced an FA charge and ban, but the FA chiefs decided no ban was necessary following his post-match bust-up with Neal Maupay yesterday at Brighton. The referee didn’t see it happen live, and VAR deemed the incident not to be a red card violation.

The Express is reporting “Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta could consider a free transfer move for 33-year-old England keeper Joe Hart, who will be released from Burnley at the end of the month, after German keeper Bernd Leno, 28, suffered an injury against Brighton.”

The Star (via Fotospor) is reporting “Turkish side Fenerbahce are planning a fundraising campaign among their fans to try to help sign former German playmaker Mesut Ozil, 31, from Arsenal.”

The Express is reporting “Leeds hopes of signing Argentine keeper Emiliano Martinez, 27, from Arsenal may have suffered a blow following the injury to Leno.”

Marca is reporting “Spain midfielder Dani Ceballos, 23, will stay on loan at Arsenal from Real Madrid until the end of the season but accepts he may have to leave the Spanish club if Zinedine Zidane remains in charge of the Bernabeu side for next season.”

Okay, that’s a potpourri of stuff to discuss.

Most is speculation, however, David Ornstein is usually right. So, to add to the fire, maybe this is why Mesut Ozil and Gabriel Martinelli haven’t played since the restart?

Regarding Guendouzi. I like the guy’s spunk and passion, however, when his actions ultimately impact the team, then I’m not on board with the post-game antics at Brighton.

Then there’s Joe Hart. I’ve always been a fan, so why not bring him on as a back-up keeper. His PL experience could also help Martinez and Macey in training.

I wish Fenerbache a lot of success with their fundraising. That will take a lot of car washes and bake sales!

And finally…Leeds needs to look elsewhere for a keeper, and Ceballos probably needs to extend his rental lease in London for at least another season.

Let’s hope Arteta and the lads have a good week of training and are well prepared for Southampton!

And, all the best to Bernd Leno has he begins his recovery. Get well soon Bernd!

COYG!

Cheers, and stay healthy and safe!

Gunner1953