columns
Columns written in Fan columns during 2006:
Fan columns | The Highs and Lows of 2006
29 December 2006, Greg Leedham
The last twelve months at Arsenal have been anything but forgettable with plenty of changes - both good and bad. High-profile players have come and gone, after 93 years the club moved home and we made our first appearance in a European Cup final. Here are the stories that shaped Arsenal in 2006. »»»
Player Focus | An Imminent Decision For Arsene Wenger
24 December 2006, Andy Summers
Emmanuel Adebayor has proven a revelation in the absence of Thierry Henry. But what happens once the French maestro returns to fitness? Columnist Andy Summers discusses the rise to prominence of the Togolese striker and the decision about his role that Arsene Wenger must soon make. »»»
Referendum | What is Arsenal's optimal tactical strategy?
13 December 2006, Adam Pembrey
The 2006-07 season has seen the evolution from 4-4-2 to 4-5-1 as Arsenal’s first choice formation. Both systems have their merits and both their drawbacks. The change has caused mass discussion amongst Arsenal fans, so we at Arsenal-Land thought what better a subject for our latest referendum feature? Enjoy. »»»
Fan columns | Chelsea preview / 442 vs 451 / Henry’s absence
10 December 2006, Darren Bowser
Editorial: A look ahead to this afternoon's game. Will Wenger go with 442 or 451? Darren Bowser looks at the key elements of todays clash plus new content forth coming on Arsenal-Land. »»»
Fan columns | Who may shine in Henry's absence?
7 December 2006,
With Thierry Henry sidelined between 4 to 6 weeks columnist Steve Heslin discusses which players may shine in his absense. »»»
Fan columns | Two false dawns and Wenger's misplaced faith
2 December 2006, Neil Payne
With the top two already out of sight before Christmas, Neil Payne ponders the reasons why Arsenal are again under achieving in the Premiership.
»»»Match Reports | Gunners double generosity on the road
1 December 2006, Darren Bowser
More frustration for the faithful as Arsenal's Ashburton generosity is doubled and packed on the team coach on the road. Editor Darren Bowser reports from Craven Cottage. »»»
Match Reports | Arsenal fail yet again at the Reebok
27 November 2006,
Arsenal-Land reporter Alex Kirkland watched Arsenal old boy Nicolas Anelka score twice to further diminish Arsenal’s flagging title hopes. »»»
Fan columns | From a Gooner: Thank you, Alex Ferguson
25 November 2006, Lenny Antonelli
We may love to hate him, but Alex Ferguson's tenure at Old Trafford has enriched our experience as Arsenal fans, writes Lenny Antonelli »»»
Match Reports | A step too far for the young guns
24 November 2006, Ant Hartman
Ant Hartman watches a reserve side made up mainly of under 18's, struggle to make the grade against a more than competent Fulham, at Underhill. »»»
Match Reports | Gunners leave it late to keep European hopes alive
22 November 2006, Michael Strevens
Two late goals sealed a crucial European win for Arsenal, who now need a point to qualify from Group G. Michael Strevens reports.
»»»Site news | Join Arsenal-Land as a match reporter
19 November 2006, Darren Bowser
Arsenal-Land are looking to add two match reporters to complete our writing team. If you; attend matches regularly, feel you could offer an informed opinion and would relish the chance to join our website please read on. »»»
Referendum | What is the future of Arsenal's strike force?
12 November 2006, Adam Pembrey
For the first time under Arsene Wenger the side appear to be having difficulties hitting the back of the net. What needs to be done to solve this problem? We asked our forum members for their thoughts on the future of Arsenal's strike force. »»»
Match Reports | Gunners edged out in heated derby
9 November 2006,
Arsenal's frustration continues in front of goal as again luck falls against us. Match reporter Alex Kirkland reviews the action at Upton Park. (Ed. Apologies for the late running of this feature).
»»»Fan columns | So who’s the fall-guy now?
6 November 2006, Alex Reid
Columnist Alex Reid takes a look back at the fall guys at Arsenal over the years, in the eye's of the fans, and asks the question who is the fall guy now? »»»
Fan columns | How Arsenal can break down the barricades
1 November 2006, Michael Strevens
Arsenal have been criticised for failing to break down defensive teams this season, particularly at home. Columnist Michael Strevens looks at how we can overcome stubborn opposition.
»»»Site news | Book review: We All Live In A Perry Groves World
29 October 2006, David Faber
'We all live in a Perry Groves World' - We've all sung the song, here is the book - an autobiography from the man himself Perry Groves. Arsenal-Land historian David Faber provides readers with a review.
»»»
Fan columns | Eight more years of Cesc Fabulous
27 October 2006, Michael Strevens
He has rapidly become one of the best midfielders in Europe and is only going to get better. Columnist Michael Strevens looks forward to eight more years of Cesc. »»»
Referendum | Wenger at Arsenal - What you hope to see next
26 October 2006, Adam Pembrey
Arsene Wenger's stay at the club as manager recently passed ten years, in that time he has transformed the club from top to bottom both on and off the field. With the team now settled into their new home we ask our forum readers what next they would like to see Arsenal acheive with Wenger at the helm.
»»»Match Reports | Walcott shines as Gunners' rise continues
16 October 2006, Michael Strevens
Columnist Michael Strevens saw Theo Walcott impress on his full debut as Arsenal beat Watford to make it six wins in a row. »»»
Fan columns | Ode to Highbury
6 October 2006, Guest columnist
Arsenal fan Andrew Mikhael says a heart felt good bye to Gunner life at Highbury, acknowledging the inevitable need to move on from the world famous old ground.
»»»Fan columns | You put the right side in, the left side out
2 October 2006, Neil Payne
As Arsenal’s season gathers momentum, Columnist Neil Payne looks at the merits of the evolving partnership between Emmanuel Eboue and Alexander Hleb. »»»
Fan columns | Ten years and 566 games ago – where it all began for Arsenal under Wenger
30 September 2006, Michael Strevens
Following his appointment as Arsenal boss, Arsene Wenger had to wait for over a fortnight before taking charge of his first game against Blackburn. Columnist Michael Strevens looks back to 1996 and the players who lined up in Wenger's first ever side. »»»
Match Reports | Arsene celebrates anniversary in style
28 September 2006,
Arsenal's fast improving fortunes continue with a second Champions League success making it four wins from four games. David Rumney reports from Ashburton Grove.
»»»
Match Reports | Gunners blunt Blades to seal historic win
24 September 2006, Michael Strevens
Arsenal followed up their tremendous result at Old Trafford with a first league victory at the new stadium. The 3-0 win slightly flattered the Gunners, who were made to work hard by a resilient Sheffield United. Columnist Michael Strevens reports. »»»
Match Reports | Denilson, Merida inspire stylish win
22 September 2006, Ant Hartman
Ant Hartman watches the talented 'reserve' side register another victory, with some fine play inspired by debutants, Denilson and Merida Perez. »»»
Player Focus | Czech mate
22 September 2006, Andy Summers
Continuing the momentum of the Player Focus feature, columnist Andy Summers turns his attention to Tomas Rosicky, assessing the ability of the Czech playmaker, and appraising how he shall fit tactically into the Arsenal midfield. »»»
Fan columns | Manchester Utd vs Arsenal preview
17 September 2006, Michael Strevens
Columnist Michael Strevens previews Arsenal's big clash against Manchester United this afternoon. He comments that never in recent history has this tie been so low key and that the position of underdogs today could favour Arsenal. »»»
Referendum | Can Arsenal improve upon 2005-06 season?
13 September 2006, Adam Pembrey
In this month's Referendum Adam Pembrey introduces the question: ' Can Arsenal improve on last season? ' Two excellent responses from our website's forums were selected for the feature. Do you agree? »»»
Match Reports | Poor start continues
10 September 2006,
Andrew Smith reviews the action as Arsenal's stuttering start to the new season continues with a 1-1 draw at home to Boro. »»»
Site news | Join our writing team
31 August 2006, Darren Bowser
We are pleased to announce the several new writing roles at the Arsenal-land fansite. If you are a keen Arsenal fan who would be interesting in sharing opinions about the club to a wide audience please read on... »»»
Match Reports | Aliadiere inspires comfortable victory for revamped reserves
29 August 2006, Ant Hartman
Ant Hartman watches a somewhat different reserve side cruise to a comfortable victory in front of a bank holiday Underhill crowd for the opening fixture in the new-look Premier Reserve League. »»»
Player Focus | Arsenal 2006-2007; squad, tactics, aspirations
23 August 2006, Andy Summers
Ahead of the second fixture of the 2006-2007 season away to Manchester City, and with the closure of the transfer window fast approaching, columnist Andy Summers analyses Arsenal's squad; discussing squad depth, tactics, and expectations for this year. »»»
Fan columns | No more excuses?
21 August 2006, Adam Pembrey
Columnist Adam Pembrey looks back on a few of the reasons given for the teams struggle's last season, and how he believes they are no longer relevant. »»»
Fan columns | Arsene Wenger's Greatest Signings
18 August 2006, Greg Leedham
On September 22nd 2006, Arsene Wenger will have been Arsenal manager for ten years. Much of the club's success during this time has been down to his astuteness in the transfer market. Greg Leedham looks back at some of his best signings. »»»
Fan columns | £40 million please - and not a penny less
17 August 2006, Greg Leedham
Summer is rarely a happy time for Arsene Wenger but, if he wants history to stop repeating itself, he must stand firm over the proposed transfers of Messrs Cole and Reyes. »»»
Fan columns | Time to accept Reyes' departure
16 August 2006, Lenny Antonelli
While Jose Antonio Reyes may yet remain at Arsenal for the coming season, Lenny Antonelli suggests that the talented Spaniard can only fulfill his enoromous potential with a return to his home country. »»»
Fan columns | Cole and Campbell - A reasoned analysis
14 August 2006, Neil Payne
The questionable conduct of the two English defenders this summer leaves Neil Payne supporting Arsene Wenger's recruitment policy. »»»
Fan columns | Henry unveiled as new face of Reebok
11 August 2006, Greg Leedham
Arsenal's most prized asset, Thierry Henry, was yesterday formally revealed to the media as the new face of Reebok. Greg Leedham went to investigate. »»»
Fan columns | Cesc shows off new attributes of his game
9 August 2006, Darren Bowser
Cesc shows off new aspects to his rapidly developing game as the Gunners cruise to a super 3-0 win to all be end the Champions League tie against Dinimo Zagreb. »»»
Referendum | Referendum: In what area's should Arsenal strenghten?
9 August 2006, Adam Pembrey
The famous Arsenal-Land referendum is back for another season. This time we asked our forum members what area's of the squad they felt needed strenghtening. »»»
Fan columns | Transfer rumours hot up, but tonight’s game is key
8 August 2006, Lenny Antonelli
Lenny Antonelli assesses Arsene Wenger's likely purchases before the close of the transfer window, and suggests that tonight's game in Zagreb could reveal a lot about our comings and goings over the next few weeks. »»»
Fan columns | Perfect preperation for Arsenal as Aliadiere shows promise
4 August 2006, Darren Bowser
Arsenal enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 pre-season win in a competively fought friendly against AZ Alkmaar. The Gunners senior players got a much needed run out whilst substitute Jeremie Aliadiere in particular caught the eye.
»»»Fan columns | An interview with Jon Spurling (Author of Rebels for the cause)
26 June 2006, Darren Bowser
We speak to Jon Spurling the author of "Rebels for the cause" about his new book about Highbury titled "Highbury: The story of Arsenal in N5". »»»
Fan columns | Sven fails the basics whilst France should copy Arsenal
21 June 2006, Darren Bowser
Editor Darren Bowser reflects on Sven's blunders and puts forward the case for an Arsenal blueprint for France after comparing the fortunes of Spain and France.
»»»
Fan columns | 10 years in charge from 'Arsene knows'
15 June 2006, Guest columnist
Guest columnist Mike Steyn, a regular forum member, summarises Arsene Wenger's achievements after 10 years in charge at Arsenal. »»»
Fan columns | Gunners quids in after Rosicky shows calibre
12 June 2006, Darren Bowser
As Tomas Rosicky destroys United States it looks like Arsene Wenger has saved Arsenal millions with his early transfer secured. »»»
Fan columns | Gunners will benefit from early Rosicky move
25 May 2006, Darren Bowser
The summer takes good shape in stark contrast to the club's preperations 12 months ago. Tomas Rosicky's early signing can help Arsenal to a stable start.
»»»
Fan columns | Rebels for the cause - A review
21 May 2006, Darren Bowser
A review of fan Jon Spurling's fascinating insight to Arsenal's untold history, an alternative history about the rogues that helped shaped Arsenal's history. »»»
Fan columns | Paris match suggests bright future for Wenger's youngsters
19 May 2006, Greg Leedham
The glass is half full for Greg Leedham at the moment. Not even a narrow defeat in the Champions League final could dampen his optimism.
»»»Fan columns | Arsenal's charge for glory
17 May 2006,
It's going to be tough but Fisher Talk believe's Arsenal has what it takes. Here's how. »»»
Fan columns | Youth, pace and blossoming defence key to Arsenal victory
16 May 2006, Lenny Antonelli
Arsenal-Land columnist Lenny Antonelli previews tomorrow night's Champions League final, arguing that fearlessness of Arsene Wenger's young side, coupled with their tight defence and explosive pace, has the potential to cause an upset. »»»
Referendum | How will Arsenal line up against Barcelona?
16 May 2006, Adam Pembrey
In this month's referendum we asked our forum members their opinions on the likely starting line up for the champions league final.
»»»Fan columns | The road to the Champions League final
15 May 2006, Darren Bowser
Editor Darren Bowser looks back at Arsenal's path through to the champions league final in Paris with the context of previous campaigns and the season as a whole. »»»
Fan columns | Premier League's Tottenham response is hard but fair
12 May 2006, Greg Leedham
It may be hard for Spurs fans to stomach but the Premier League's rejection of their replay request was the correct decision, writes Greg Leedham. »»»
Fan columns | Thierry Henry song & website logo wallaper downloads
11 May 2006, Darren Bowser
A couple of downloads for you all, a song by the band 'Offside trappers' about our club captain Thierry Henry and a new wallpaper for the site featuring Arsenal-land's site logo and colours. Hope you enjoy. »»»
Match Reports | St Totteringham’s Day comes late this year
8 May 2006,
Simon Poole watches Arsenal’s Highbury Farewell. »»»
Editorial | Highbury: Send us your memories
2 May 2006, Darren Bowser
Highbury: Send us your memories. Arsenal-land are putting together a collection of the fans memories about the stadium to be published Saturday 6th May. Click to find out more. »»»
Fan columns | Wenger can destroy the Premiership myth
25 April 2006,
Ahead of tonights Champions League semi-final 2nd leg match against Villareal, Norrie Hernon gives his frank views on the relative merits and values of the Premiership and Champions League. »»»
Match Reports | Spurs spoil excellent performance with burgled goal
25 April 2006,
Simon Poole angrily watches a weakened Arsenal draw in the clubs last ever North London derby at Highbury against a rejuvenated Spurs. »»»
Fan columns | Controversial goal leaves all eyes on Europe
24 April 2006, Greg Leedham
After Saturday's fiery affair, Greg Leedham gives his view on 'that' goal and looks ahead with optimism to Tuesday's semi-final against Villarreal.
»»»Fan columns | Don't believe the hype
22 April 2006, Greg Leedham
The last North London derby at Highbury is upon us and the hype has reached feverish levels. Many pundits believe the outcome will have enormous significance for both clubs well beyond this season. Greg Leedham remains unconvinced. »»»
Referendum | Referendum: With a full choice, who will be Wenger's starting back 4 come the start of the new season?
19 April 2006, Adam Pembrey
The Referendum is back by popuar demand. This month we asked our foum members what they thought the first choice back four will be come the start of next season.
»»»Match Reports | Hard-fought win keeps Gunners in the hunt
16 April 2006,
Andrew Smith reviews the action from Highbury as two late goals snatch a vital three points. »»»
Match Reports | Little given, little gained
4 April 2006, Ant Hartman
The first of three consecutive home reserve games in April saw the Arsenal kids give away their first half lead in a tepid performance at Underhill. »»»
Editorial | Rocastle week roundup/Rocky wallpaper/Sponsored forum login at 3pm
2 April 2006, Darren Bowser
A round of the weeks tributes in memory of David Rocastle, we are holding a sponsored login at the forums so do login at 3pm and help us raise some money just by logging in. Thanks to Soccer Art for an exclusive Rocky wallpaper.
»»»
Editorial | Sponsored forum login for Rocky
31 March 2006, Darren Bowser
Help raise donations for the David Rocastle Trust as part of our Rocky tribute week by visiting our forums at 3pm Sunday 2nd April. »»»
Editorial | David Rocastle - career highlights and goals
29 March 2006, Lenny Antonelli
Some of David Rocastle's magic goals and moment relived. Add comments about your own particular memories of goals, celebrations and milestones too.
»»»
Match Reports | Fabregas mugs old lady
29 March 2006,
David Rumney provides a second Arsenal-land view point of Arsenal's 2-0 victory over Juventus with Cesc Fabregas somewhat upstaging his former captain Vieira. »»»
Match Reports | Are you Real in disguise?
29 March 2006,
Simon Poole provides the first of two match reports from Highbury as a young Arsenal side runs rings around Juventus.
»»»
Editorial | Introducing Rocky week on Arsenal-land
27 March 2006, Darren Bowser
Arsenal-land are holding a week of features in remembrance of form Arsenal heroe David 'Rocky' Rocastle. The week begins today in lead up to the themed Rocastle match against Aston Villa. Find out more.
»»»
Editorial | Through the eyes of a child
24 March 2006, David Faber
Historian David Faber shares a touching personal account of his trip to Highbury with his father of age 84 who returned to Highbury for his first match in 30 years after moving to Devon. A story that offers new perspective on modern day Arsenal. »»»
Editorial | Play at Highbury in aid of the David Rocastle trust
24 March 2006, Darren Bowser
An oppurtunity to play at Highbury with use of the first team's changing rooms with all proceeds of the day donated to the David Rocastle Trust.
Fan columns | A rivalry at last?
23 March 2006,
Norrie Hernon discusses the return of a genuine North London rivarly and the highlights the reasons for the lack of that over the last decade. »»»
Match Reports | Theo so good
22 March 2006, Ant Hartman
On what was officially the last night of winter the Arsenal fans were chilled to the bone as they watched a relatively experienced reserve side beat Charlton.
»»»Match Reports | Resurgence continues as Arsenal cruise to win over Charlton
18 March 2006,
Andrew Smith reviews the action at Highbury as the Gunners stroll to a comfortable 3 points. »»»
Fan columns | Unsung Heroes
14 March 2006, Adam Pembrey
Columnist Adam Pembrey takes a look at the role that the squad player has played in Arsenal's recent history and how sometimes their work goes unnoticed.
»»»Match Reports | Arsenal’s vincible warriors triumph over 'Battlestar Galactico'
10 March 2006,
Simon Poole reports as vibrant Arsenal remove Real Madrid from the Champions' League after an exciting goalless draw at Highbury. »»»
Fan columns | Only 100% will do
8 March 2006,
Summary: Money has changed the dynamic of football but, as the failed Galactico experiment has shown, the fundamentals are still required in each and every game – from each and every player.
»»»
Match Reports | No shame in defeat
28 February 2006, Ant Hartman
Arsenal’s youthful reserve team put on an encouraging performance against relatively experienced North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
»»»Fan columns | Visionary Wenger deserves our patience
24 February 2006, Greg Leedham
After an inconsistent season, a growing minority of fans and journalists have been calling for Arsene Wenger to leave the club. Columnist Greg Leedham gives his defence of the Arsenal manager.
»»»Fan columns | Home is where the heart is
21 February 2006,
New columnist Steve Heslin discusses the possible effects on home advanatge that Arsenal’s move across the road to Ashburton Grove could have next season.
»»»Fan columns | Toure set for starring role in beleaguered defence
14 February 2006, Greg Leedham
With Arsenal’s defence devastated by injury and our quest for a Champions League spot entering a critical phase, the return of Kolo Toure could not come at a better time.
»»»Match Reports | Last gasp equaliser rescues a point
12 February 2006,
Andrew Smith reviews the actrion at Highbury as Gilberto’s late volley earns Arsenal a hard-fought draw.
»»»Fan columns | All in the head?
12 February 2006, Adam Pembrey
Arsenal-land columnist Adam Pembrey explores why the current side seems to be struggling despite having a squad full of quality players. Could their downfall be their lack of mental toughness?
»»»Fan columns | Henry: Could it still be Va-Va-Gloom?
5 February 2006, Neil Payne
A month has passed since Thierry Henry confirmed his intention to sign a new contract. Whilst Champions League qualification is key, Neil Payne argues it is no foregone conclusion that the French ace will not be seeking a new challenge this summer.
»»»Match Reports | Defensive errors cost Arsenal dear as forwards luck runs dry
4 February 2006,
Away form follows Arsenal home while the Sol of the Club goes awol. No luck tonight for the dominating forwards.
»»»Fan columns | Transition: This one, the next one, or not at all?
1 February 2006,
Transition: Passage from one form, state, style, or place to another.
»»»Match Reports | Arsenal slump to FA Cup exit but it is not all doom and gloom
30 January 2006,
Andrew Smith reviews the action at the Reebok and says that despite another disappointing away defeat there are reasons to be cheerful.
»»»Fan columns | Imbalances are the problem, but Arsenal can emerge again
26 January 2006, Darren Bowser
A midseason review by Editor Darren Bowser who discusses the imbalances he feels are the route of Arsenal’s weaknesses and the prospects for the rest of the season.
»»»Fan columns | Hubristic?
20 January 2006,
“We’ve got higher-priced tickets and more premium tickets than any other club in the UK.” Economic necessity or greed? The future of the supporter and of the game are inextricably linked.
»»»Fan columns | Once more unto the breach
12 January 2006,
New signings are vital, but a change of attitude among the current squad must be effected if we are to retain any chance of a meaningful season.
»»»Fan columns | 85-86, 95-96, 05-06
5 January 2006,
Mid-decade and something’s not clicking at Arsenal? New columnist Norrie Hernon thinks he’s been here before…..
»»»Match Reports | Honours even on quiet battlefield
4 January 2006,
A vast improvement in performance all round in camparison to last season’s display. An especially good first half display was on show and we can count ourselves unlucky not to have got a penalty or for Rooney to have seen Red. David Rumney repor »»»
Referendum | Referendum: How will Arsène use the transfer window?
4 January 2006, Adam Pembrey
Its referendum time again. With the January transfer window now open for business and Arsenal’s squad a little thinner than we would like, we asked “How will Arsene use the transfer window?”
»»»Fan columns | Who do you think you are kidding, Monsieur Wenger?
4 January 2006, Neil Payne
Arsene Wenger is only deluding himself with his positive stance regarding the quality of squad he has at Highbury. Its been in decline for two years now and needs urgent strengthening if Champions League football is to debut at Ashburton Grove in 2006 »»»
Fan columns | Disappointing season just a blip in Wenger's grand plan
2 January 2006, Lenny Antonelli
Arsenal-Land columnist Lenny Antonelli argues the criticism levelled at Arsene Wenger from some fans this season has been largely unfair, and that the club will be soon be back fighting at the top of the Premiership.
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