Old timers

Just finished watching the Milan v Utd game.

Maybe Rooney really is that good. He had loads of space again, especially for his second goal when Fletcher floated over his short range cross. When we played them, United and Rooney in particular seemed to have so much space. Maybe Rooney is just that good at getting himself in killer positions. However it did feel like Milan, like us when we played them, just weren't closing them down quick enough. And they were punished like we were a couple of weeks ago.

Rooney is looking truly world class. This might be an Arsenal blog, but credit where it is due. He is on fire and this kind of form could take England quite some distance in the World Cup this Summer. He was definitely the best player on the pitch until an old-timer arrived.....

Seedorf was absolute class. He was only on for the last 20 minutes, but his touch, vision, passing and his cheeky flicked goal reminded us all of what a great player he was (and obviously still is). The player he replaced flattered to deceive. Beckham couldn't even offer a decent free kick, just a half decent cross that enabled Ronaldinho to score via a lucky deflection.

Arsenal don't have any old-timers to bring on tomorrow night. The nearest we've got is Eduardo who is nearing his 27th birthday. About the age that players begin to peak. He's had a year out, so he's probably going to peak a little later in his career, but we really need him to get back to his best. I really miss seeing him truly play. He has such skill and seemed to be that clinical finisher that we were missing.

Our only genuine old-timer is Campbell. But he won't be a 20 minute sub. He's going to be an integral part of our defence for the whole 20 minutes. Wouldn't mind him popping up with a headed goal, like his last appearance for us in the Champions League.

We should beat Porto, especially over the 2 legs. Porto will score against us, I just hope that Arsenal take the approach we've had for most of the season, that we'll score more than you. In Europe, lots of goals will suit us, especially tomorrow night. A couple of away goals, even if they score one or two will be great. Hopefully then we'll bring them back to the Emirates and finish them off. Unfortunately I have a feeling it will be a tight and cagey affair and there won't be many goals. I hope I am wrong.

Enjoy

'98