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Daily Arsenal - S2 - E4: Gunners victorious but injuries come back to bite us…
11 Plays11 days ago
In this episode we will be discussing our emphatic win over Leeds Utd winning 5-0 at home, discussing the talking points fro the game and looking at our latest signing. Now if you want to get involved with any of our topics discussed please do get involved through our social media, which can be found in our show notes in the description.
Host: Jamie Patterson
Guest: Craig Matthews
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Transcript
Introduction to the Daily Arsenal Podcast
00:00:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hello everyone and welcome to the Daily Arsenal Podcast, where this is your one-stop shop as we bring you all the latest Arsenal news and views.
00:00:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
Brought to you on the GSPN Podcast Network, I am your host Jamie Patterson and of course I'm joined by my Mr Encyclopedia, the one and only Mr Craig Matthews.
Weekend Experiences
00:00:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
Craig, how are you feeling man? We've just, we've come back off the weekend Bank holiday Monday, I mean, i don't know if you were, I don't know if you were working or if you had the day off today.
00:00:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
i unfortunately was working, but yeah, man, how was your back holiday weekend?
00:00:50
Craig matthews
I was working today myself. but
00:00:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ah, man.
00:00:54
Craig matthews
but Double money, so I can't complain.
00:00:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ah, lucky for you, man, lucky for you.
00:00:57
Craig matthews
Double pay, man. So, yeah.
00:00:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
Don't even get, I don't even get double money. I wish I had that, man.
00:01:01
Craig matthews
Double pay today, but yeah.
00:01:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, I wish I had that.
00:01:04
Craig matthews
are i wish I wish I could have stayed at home today, man, honestly. The brother was so nice as well.
00:01:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
would you but would Would you have gone to the carnival? Would you have gone Notting Hill? Because I know like Notting Hill's not round the corner from you.
00:01:13
Craig matthews
Nah.
00:01:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
Nah, fairs.
00:01:15
Craig matthews
Nah, not too far. wouldn't have done. I just would have chilled at home, man, or done something else.
00:01:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, fair enough.
00:01:20
Craig matthews
Yeah.
00:01:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
Fair enough.
Arsenal's Victory Over Leeds
00:01:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
But in today's episode, we're going to be discussing our emphatic 5-0 win at home against Leeds United.
00:01:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
Discussing put the good points from the game. And also going to discuss a little bit about our injuries as well as our latest signing, Ebere Eze.
Ebere Eze Joins Arsenal
00:01:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
Let me let me mention that again. Our new signing, Ebere Eze.
00:01:54
Craig matthews
Mm-hmm.
00:01:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
I don't know if it's sunk in for you yet, Craig, but for me, it just it. It still feels a bit surreal, but we'll talk about that a little bit later on. But guys, as always, if you want to get involved with any of the topics discussed, please do get involved through our social media, which will be found in our show notes in the description.
00:02:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
Right, Craig, let's let's just get down to business.
First Half Performance Analysis
00:02:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
Arsenal 5, Leeds United 0. What were your thoughts on the game?
00:02:24
Craig matthews
First half, before we scored the first goal, we were a little bit like in second gear. And then we got the first goal from the set piece, then made it 1-0.
00:02:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:02:34
Craig matthews
And then we got the second goal. Saka killed the game. Technically, Saka killed the game for the second goal to make it 2-0. But before this before we scored, I think Leeds had a corner and the guy headed there.
00:02:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:02:45
Craig matthews
WB made a great save. I remember him making a great save from the corner.
00:02:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
Free header as well, I believe, wasn't it?
00:02:49
Craig matthews
Three header. Yeah, three header.
00:02:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah
00:02:51
Craig matthews
And he was going in and saved it. It was good save. I think if they 1-0, I think they would have kind of parked the bus and made it hard for us to score. But once we got the goals, that was it. We just kind of change i changed the system a bit and then we got more goals as well. So I was very happy with the win, very happy the performance in the second half, would say.
00:03:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, I couldn't agree you more. I think the first half, again, do you know what? First of all, that starting XI, I can't lie. Arteta, if you're listening, Mikel, if you're listening to us, I mean, you know, we're not going to blow our own horn here, but, you know, we said about starting Madweke, you know, started Madweke, you know.
00:03:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:03:35
Craig matthews
listen He's listening, he's listening.
00:03:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
But... um He's listening. He is listening. Or maybe well maybe one of his sources is listening to the podcast and, you know, he's just feeding back the information. So, you know, welcome along.
00:03:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
But look, overall, I think, again, great performance. ah The first half for me, like like you said there, Craig, I think it was a bit of a concern.
00:03:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, we didn't kind of, you know, we didn't kind of go all out attack here, but was really kind of difficult to find our flow and find that momentum.
00:04:08
Craig matthews
Mm-hmm.
00:04:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I think, again, that first half, I think the Raya save might have played a small part in thinking, right, well, hold on a minute. it we We really need to kind of turn the gas up here because if we don't and Leeds somehow go and score, like you've said there, they'll park the bus and it will be difficult to break down their their defence and their formation.
00:04:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
So, overall, really pleased with that 5-0 win.
Jokere's Impact on the Game
00:04:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, goal scorers, you're correct. Oh, we've got talk about him, haven't we? And what what did what what did i say to you ah the but what did I say to you in the last episode?
00:04:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
What did I say to you?
00:04:52
Craig matthews
He says he's score.
00:04:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
I said, i literally said, all all it takes for Jokere's
00:04:55
Craig matthews
I was confident. Yeah.
00:05:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
is one goal. One goal, and it will boost his confidence.
00:05:01
Craig matthews
Yeah.
00:05:03
Craig matthews
Oh, man.
00:05:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
Forget about one goal. You've got two goals in this game.
00:05:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, yeah, yeah. Gotta bring out. Yeah. Yes.
00:05:14
Craig matthews
ah
00:05:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
For those of you, obviously, for those of you that are listening, you know, me and Craig, we're just, we're out here just pulling out the, the Ocarus celebration like it's nothing, you know, just, you know, why not?
00:05:14
Craig matthews
um
00:05:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Pull out twice again. Yeah, it was, yeah, there you go. and Craig, i need to we we've got to talk about Jochores because, you know, and the second goal.
00:05:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
Let's talk about his celebration for the second goal because there was stat, there was a silly stat flying around last week saying that Jochores had more touches with his hair than he did with the ball.
00:05:47
Craig matthews
Yeah. Of
00:05:54
Craig matthews
course.
00:05:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
Now, how do you go and respond to your critics? Pull out your set famous celebration as you always do. But also, you know, just, yeah, flick your hair as well.
00:06:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
I mean, you've got to love that, haven't you?
00:06:08
Craig matthews
yeah
00:06:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
You really have got to love it.
00:06:10
Craig matthews
of course
00:06:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
What were your thoughts on that?
00:06:13
Craig matthews
I was so happy that he scored the two goals. when i was i was like he the The first goal he scored was a wall top-class goal. He dribbled past two defenders. He did that in the Portuguese and League a lot. Cut in, hit it first time in the keeper had no chance when it went in.
00:06:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:06:27
Craig matthews
The penalty was such a clinical penalty as well. He drilled it so low in the corner.
00:06:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
o
00:06:33
Craig matthews
No way the keeper was saving in it. and and ah And I have to give a mention to Rodney because Rodney said that his he had a bit with his cousin or somebody, family member.
00:06:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, you got to bring out the group chat.
00:06:42
Craig matthews
and cut
00:06:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:06:44
Craig matthews
Yeah.
00:06:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:06:46
Craig matthews
And he said that Godcred's not going to score any goals this season. When Godcred's scored, I messaged him straight away and well, you've your £100 now.
00:06:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
kyli I think, think, I think he should be going 200 in my opinion, two goals, 200 pounds.
00:06:58
Craig matthews
So, well done. Yeah, £200 for that, man.
00:06:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
I think, I think that's fair, you know,
00:07:00
Craig matthews
Of course. Yeah. Shout out Rodney.
00:07:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
I think that's that's honestly fair in my opinion.
00:07:05
Craig matthews
Yeah, man. Yeah.
00:07:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
Rodney, hope you spend your £200 well, mate.
00:07:08
Craig matthews
Yeah, man.
00:07:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
Whatever you're doing with it, go and spend it wisely. Don't forget my birthday is literally next week.
00:07:12
Craig matthews
yeah
00:07:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, you might want to maybe consider that or next Thursday to be precise. that
00:07:21
Craig matthews
Yes.
00:07:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
But um yeah, honestly, I mean, ah just Jokerez. What a joy he is to have in the Prem. And I mean, We go back to, again, wanting that striker.
00:07:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
But, how can I put this? Do you think playing the ball long to Jokerez is what will unlock the best out of him?
00:07:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
Because, you know, with...
00:07:43
Craig matthews
yeah
00:07:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, goodness me. Right. so Take it
Analyzing Jokere's Playing Style
00:07:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
away, Rodney. Take it away. up Rodney? What? Craig, take it away.
00:07:52
Craig matthews
I honestly feel that he he that he he's ah is a pacey player, isn't he? That's the more right that's running channel.
00:07:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:07:58
Craig matthews
So he's headable early to him, he can use his pace and unlock defences. I think after playing the game that we normally play that to, when Halvats plays when he can play it to him, he drops it back. he's headable over the top, he's going to run in behind.
00:08:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:08:10
Craig matthews
The difference between Halvats and him is that he's more... How can I say this? He's more of a natural striker, isn't he? Halvats not really a striker.
00:08:16
Global Sports Podcast Network
course.
00:08:17
Craig matthews
Halvats more like a... a player that can play up there, if you want to hold this one to have a battle with the defenders, who will battle with defenders.
00:08:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:08:23
Craig matthews
Gokwe, if I've noticed, he's like a bully. A bully defender and he doesn have doesn't care about reputation or whatever, he'll just go there and do his thing and score goals.
00:08:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
No.
00:08:33
Craig matthews
And that's what we need. So, ah would rather say look for him early and hit in the channels and he'll run for it all day long and go and get a goal.
00:08:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely. i think you you made a really good point there about, you know, the presence. Having Jokeres as a presence, he will intimidate.
00:08:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
He will intimidate defenders. And that's I think that's something Arsenal have been missing in their locker probably since maybe maybe even since the Aubameyang days.
00:08:57
Craig matthews
Definitely.
00:09:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
Someone intimidating. Someone that is seen as a threat. And again...
00:09:10
Craig matthews
the
00:09:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
With the presence of Jokeres there, I can just see him being... I can see defenders being so intimidated by him.
00:09:20
Craig matthews
definitely
00:09:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
But, again, great season. I'm just so pleased he's off he's off the mark now. He's got two goals. Rodney's happy. Everyone's happy. You know, um what more could you ask for, really?
00:09:35
Craig matthews
Of course. Yeah, man.
League Position Discussion
00:09:37
Craig matthews
it's's It's been a great weekend for us, so we're still top of the league as well. also Just to drop that in there.
00:09:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ah, stop the lit.
00:09:42
Craig matthews
Yeah, of course.
00:09:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, stop the count. Stop the count, people.
00:09:44
Craig matthews
but
00:09:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
Stop the count.
00:09:45
Craig matthews
but
00:09:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Two games in, stop the count. Stop the count. Give us the trophy now. Why not?
00:09:49
Craig matthews
yeah cool
00:09:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
But wow, I mean, great game of football. I mean, second half more so was a lot more entertaining than the first half.
Arteta's Team Talk Speculation
00:09:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
What do you think Arteta must have said to the boys before coming out for the second half?
00:10:04
Craig matthews
He must have said to us to up the intensity and to go for the kill. There's more goals in this game. but If I was a manager, I would have said the same thing. I would have said that, you know what, we'll 2-0 up at half-time, kill the game off, we can rest some of the players for the next game.
00:10:17
Craig matthews
I know unfortunately we lost two players to injury, but what he did was very smart. When we got more goals, he started taking our players and rotating, take off Timba, took off
00:10:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:10:28
Craig matthews
Califori, players who are kind of risk of injuries. He brought on Mosquera, done well. He brought on Max Dalman, he had a great game, won a penalty.
00:10:39
Craig matthews
Quality player. um He brought on... Who else did he bring on? think he brought on...
00:10:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
He didn't bring on Miles Loskelly, did he
00:10:47
Craig matthews
Yeah, he brought left back, yeah.
00:10:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:10:49
Craig matthews
Skelly for Califori, and I think he brought on Mosquera for Timba.
00:10:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:10:54
Craig matthews
He brought on... who was the D-Brennan? Second-rate Federal-Horn Nighy.
00:11:02
Craig matthews
Mader Waker came off for... Diamond.
00:11:07
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:11:08
Craig matthews
Trosso came on for... Who did Trosso come on for? Trosso came on for...
00:11:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
I'm actually looking.
00:11:16
Craig matthews
came on for...
00:11:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
um
00:11:24
Global Sports Podcast Network
Let me have a look. So. ah don't want to. Point system,
Max Dalman's Emerging Talent
00:11:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
player stats, match details.
00:11:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
I can't think of it off the top of my head.
00:11:36
Craig matthews
like Foshoi came on for Saka.
00:11:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yes. Yes, that's it.
00:11:43
Craig matthews
On E4 Waneeri came on Odegaard.
00:11:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yes. Now, I mean...
00:11:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Another player we have to talk about.
00:11:52
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:11:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
We have to talk about our star boy as well.
00:11:57
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:11:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Again... Are we now... Are we... Okay.
00:12:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
let's let's Let's rewind it back a little bit. Before he got injured, do you think we would then... do you think we're seeing the best... Are we seeing Saka back at his best before the injury?
00:12:15
Craig matthews
He was back at his best on Saturday. Against Mainati, he looked very... don't know if he was injured. I think he was carrying an injury from the Mainati game. That's what honestly feel because it he did very ineffective on Mainati, but he didn't look very like himself.
00:12:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hmm.
00:12:31
Craig matthews
Before he scored a goal, and did ah he did a little run and he pulled up. And I thought, is he all right? He did a little run before he got injured.
00:12:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:12:37
Craig matthews
And then he scored the goal. And after he scored the goal, he made a little... That long run he made and he pulled up so he to come off.
00:12:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:12:44
Craig matthews
He didn't look the same after that. But the thing is, we have to manage his minutes this season. We can't be overplaying him. Now we've got Maddox, we've got a better squad now. So some games, he's just going to have to tell Saka, you're going have to hold the bench today. they' have to I'm going to rest it today.
00:12:58
Craig matthews
know Saka wasn't feeling every game.
00:12:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, no, absolutely.
00:13:00
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:13:00
Global Sports Podcast Network
Absolutely, yeah. um Just quickly, before before going to a break, there's one player I need to speak about and oh my goodness, what a gem of a talent he is.
00:13:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
Max Dowman. what are just Just talk to me about Max Dowman, Craig, because wow, 15 years old. I mean, what were you doing at the age of 15?
00:13:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
Do you even remember what you doing at the age of 15?
00:13:29
Craig matthews
I was still in school. think I was going into year 11, literally going into year 11, playing football in the playing football and playground, playing for the school football team, playing for my local football team at the time.
00:13:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. Same.
00:13:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:13:43
Craig matthews
But this kid levels. But one help one fell like one bit of caution I want to have with him though, don't put too much pressure on him too soon. because
00:13:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
you know what? That is such a good point you make. You know, the media, see you know, with other players, you know, like your Saka's and, you know, to an extent, your Myles Lewiskellys and your Ethan Waniere's, it feels like there hasn't been a lot of pressure.
00:14:05
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:14:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
The media haven't really put a lot of pressure on Max Dalman. And that's maybe because of these cameo appearances he's making. So, do you continue to make these cameo appearances?
00:14:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
Do you maybe then get a start in like a Carabao Cup game? how would you How would you go about handling Max's minutes?
00:14:30
Craig matthews
I would be very cautious. If we're chasing a game and need to get a goal, I'll bring him on for like 10, 15 minutes. I wouldn't play him every game. would manage his minutes. um I'd play him in the Carabao Cup.
00:14:42
Craig matthews
I'd like to see if the Carabao Cup, FA Cup, you play him in them a couple of games, but once he's got a knee, he's 15 years old, don't want to burn him off.
00:14:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:14:50
Craig matthews
Because players in the past, I remember Michael Lerner back in the day when he played, he was playing every game when he was 17 years old.
00:14:50
Global Sports Podcast Network
Hmm.
00:14:55
Craig matthews
By the time he got to he was not the same player he was. He got burnt out. So, you don't want to burn him out. So, you kind of take him in the squad, play him some games, take him out, just spend his minutes and just make sure he's okay.
00:15:08
Craig matthews
And because he's a young kid and you don't want to destroy a young kid's confidence or if he had a bad game or anything like that, he gets...
00:15:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
Of course.
00:15:17
Craig matthews
the media starts saying he's not good enough or this badly obviously needs to protect him. I'll say to all protect him but the pub will protect him. not worried about that.
00:15:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely. i think the the one the one source that you've got to be protected from is the media because one once you start to hear, especially his age as well, once you start to hear stuff, you know especially negativity about your performances in a game,
00:15:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
it will affect, it just, again, depends on the mindset, but at young age, you know, I just worry that it might affect, it might damage his confidence. So, I'm glad at the minute, you know, we're really handling his minutes well, you know, um really good to see him come on and make such an impact.
00:15:53
Craig matthews
A.
00:16:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
love One thing I absolutely love about Dalman is he's got no fear in him. I mean, ah um we've said this about Myles Lewis, scarily we've said this about other players, but You know, the fact that he can run and take players on.
00:16:15
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I mean, like you said, won that penalty as well in great style. And there's so much more to come of him. there There really is a lot more to come of him, isn't there?
00:16:24
Craig matthews
Definitely.
00:16:27
Craig matthews
definitely
00:16:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, so we're going to take a quick break. We're going to hear from our partners at Bionic. But after the break, we are going to discuss painfully about our injury concerns as we picked up a few injuries over the course of the weekend. So join us after the break.
Injury Impact on Key Players
00:17:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
And hello there and welcome back to our Daily Arsenal podcast with myself, Jamie Patterson and Craig Matthews. And we continue to dissect Arsenal's 5-0 win against Leeds United on the Saturday.
00:17:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
Now, Craig, while it's all good sitting here talking about the goals, we sadly have to talk about a bit of a sensitive subject now. And that is, sadly, injuries.
00:17:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
As... Not one, but two players picked up injuries over this weekend. First of all, Martin Odegaard. And second of all, our star boy, Bakaya Saka.
00:18:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
What were your thoughts when you saw Odegaard and Saka come off the field?
00:18:13
Craig matthews
I was here we go again.
00:18:17
Craig matthews
Last season, we were jinxed with injuries. This season, it seems like it's been repeating itself again. But I'm not too worried as much as last year. But this year, we've got adequate cover now. We've got Eze in now. We've got Madluis.
00:18:28
Craig matthews
And Ethan Wainieri, who's been playing the number 10 role as well, and played well in preseason as well.
00:18:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:18:33
Craig matthews
So, I'm not too worried. And I've got, by the way, Kato Brown Wright as well. So, I'm not too, too worried about that. But obviously, you're going to miss Starboy. He's one of our best players on the team.
00:18:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely.
00:18:42
Craig matthews
and you're to miss our captain, the last Norderguard. But I think it's time for our players to step up now.
00:18:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
Do you know what? I've said this over and over again about Odegaard. As much I love Odegaard and I love the way he plays but With Eze coming in,
00:19:04
Global Sports Podcast Network
he my thing is, he's now got to he's now got to sit there and think, oh, hold on a minute. Eze could be here to take my spot now. you know he And and i think the same has to be said for Martinelli as well and for Trossard.
00:19:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
you know Now that players are coming in you know
Strategic Squad Changes
00:19:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
players now can't feel comfortable anymore because competition is going to be unbelievably good.
00:19:32
Global Sports Podcast Network
you know, that starting XI, you might not see the same starting XI next weekend. You know, we don't know what kind of starting XI we could play against Liverpool. We don't know what we could play against Forest or City or any other team.
00:19:42
Craig matthews
course.
00:19:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
And for me, Odegaard has really... we We need to start seeing the best out of Odegaard. A little bit worrying that he got injured, along with Saka.
00:19:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
Saka's injury, ah which we found out today, is due to be up to four weeks. So... Hopefully it's no... Touch wood, it's no longer than four weeks.
00:20:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
um And hopefully he'll be back for either Forest or City, potentially.
00:20:05
Craig matthews
here
00:20:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
But for the next few games, what do you do, Craig?
00:20:17
Craig matthews
Madhaweka right. So, between Trussard and Narmazen on the left, or Ezra in the tent. or um put as in the ten
00:20:28
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. I would. I actually would, to be fair. Eze, for me, um ah in that 10-roll, would just suit Arsenal down to T. And I think I i personally would start Martinelli.
00:20:43
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know that he's faced a lot of criticism, but I would i still put my faith in Martinelli. I just think, for me, Trossard is someone who makes such a great impact from off the bench.
00:20:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
And that's it.
00:20:56
Craig matthews
and not i Not only that, Martínez has got good record against Liverpool as well. He scored at Anfield last season. He's against Liverpool.
00:21:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:21:07
Craig matthews
I would rather him start over cross-hiding that game if have no option to trade him. um Or you can even put Eze on the left, but don't think Eze will be effective on the left-hand side. I think he's better in the 10 role.
00:21:19
Craig matthews
In the 10, he's better. He can just drive up players and do his thing.
00:21:22
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. I mean, my girlfriend said the exact same thing. She she said to me, no, he's better centrally. He's better off playing centrally. That's his best position.
00:21:33
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:21:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
So i was like, okay, not arguing. Not arguing. i mean, i think I think he can play both positions quite well, but strongest would definitely be that cam role there, wouldn't it?
00:21:44
Craig matthews
Yeah.
00:21:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
So I think that will be that will be really interesting to see how that pans out. But I just hope Martinelli's injury... Sorry, not Martinelli. I hope Odegaard's injury isn't long-term because, again...
00:21:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, it's it's funny, quickly, before we go to a break, actually, are you you were all worried about some of the injuries we're picking up? Because if we look back to last season, we had Havertz injured, we had Odegaard injured, we had Saka injured.
00:22:14
Global Sports Podcast Network
This season seems to be the exact same three same three players that have been injured. Do you think they're still carrying their injuries from last season, despite having prece like despite having the summer off and then getting ready for pre-season again?
00:22:29
Craig matthews
I don't think the Sun was enough rest anyway because remember that international football, there that Nations League and World Cup qualifiers.
00:22:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh yeah.
00:22:37
Craig matthews
Obviously Arsenal didn't play in the Club World Cup but a lot players have been going down with injuries. went down with injuries the other day for Chelsea against West Ham.
00:22:45
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:22:47
Craig matthews
lot of players are getting injured now. I honestly feel there's too much football being played and not enough players are getting rested enough. They're getting enough rest because Now, end of the season, again, they've got what? They've got African Cup Nation coming up.
00:23:00
Craig matthews
I think it's in January, think, if I remember correctly.
00:23:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah roughly so.
00:23:03
Craig matthews
And they've got the World Cup in the same next year as well going to World Cup. So the players are going no rest.
00:23:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
yep
00:23:09
Craig matthews
And I think the year after that, I think they've got another tournament after the World Cup. So there's so many tournaments. don't know if another tournament, but they've got football right at that time again.
00:23:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
It might be the Olympics. It could be the Olympics in the next few years.
00:23:22
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:23:23
Global Sports Podcast Network
But yeah, it seems to it just seems to be an ongoing cycle. And another thing is, you know, couple... I don't know. See, you'll know this better than I will.
00:23:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
when was when did we trial the internet When did we trial out a winter break?
00:23:42
Craig matthews
I think it was two or three seasons ago, think it was.
00:23:44
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:23:45
Craig matthews
Three or four seasons ago, yeah.
00:23:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:23:47
Craig matthews
I think it was the...
00:23:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
Now...
00:23:49
Craig matthews
Yeah.
00:23:49
Global Sports Podcast Network
Go on.
00:23:50
Craig matthews
think it was two or three seasons... Three or four seasons ago we did it, yeah.
00:23:54
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah. And look at how effective that winter break was. Two weeks of no Premier League football, and it was the week... By the time teams came back into action, it was the week of the Champions League back then.
00:24:12
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I just think... I don't know why we ever took that away. it was It was probably one of the worst mistakes to make.
00:24:17
Craig matthews
Yeah.
00:24:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, fair enough. I know we'd struggle with without two weeks of Premier League football. But... It was a bit more effective for players to at least have a bit of downtime and then get ready for the season ahead because there's so much going on, isn't there?
00:24:35
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, like you said, the game's coming thick and fast already. Like, what is it? ah Actually, next week, next week, we've got international. We've got the international break.
00:24:47
Craig matthews
I thought it was stupid, man. And every time Arsenal or any other team got an international break, players get injured. Look at last season, Odegaard won an international break, damage is ample.
00:24:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:24:58
Craig matthews
Players are always getting injured at an international break. I'm not saying you can't play for your country. Obviously, it's good to play for your country. you knows It's passionate.
00:25:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
Of course.
00:25:05
Craig matthews
you want to for your country. But when you look at that, when players get injured and you miss them for a long period of spellable matches and you need them for important games like Liverpool, After Liverpool, we've got Man City, think.
00:25:15
Craig matthews
I think it's Man City. think it's Man City.
00:25:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
I think it's Forest, actually.
00:25:17
Craig matthews
We've got Forest Dent.
00:25:18
Global Sports Podcast Network
I think it might be Forest or Newcastle. wo One of the three.
00:25:23
Craig matthews
got After this national break, we've got hard game then players are going to come back.
00:25:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:25:27
Craig matthews
So, they've got the game, what? They play on, what? Saturday, Tuesday, then they come back for their training on Wednesday, Thursday for training. And then players come back injured or tired or fatigued. Especially the players like Gabriel McAuliffe, who's going to Brazil, and Martínez going to Brazil for World Cup qualifiers.
00:25:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
o
00:25:44
Craig matthews
and then they get the the long travel all the way there and back and they come back Friday and then they have a game on Saturday or Sunday so yeah have to find a way to help you to protect these players but it's not really yeah
00:25:59
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, no, you're absolutely spot on, mate. Absolutely spot on. I think. you know, the international break can be so demanding, even though they're friendly games, they're still seen as demanding games because as you've mentioned, you know, players traveling across the world and, you know, and then you've got to think about when players come back from international break, you know, they, they don't get like three, four days to recover.
00:26:25
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:26:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
It's maybe a day or, or two, and then it's back on and then they have to get back on with the season. So, It would be good if something could change. I'd love to i would love to see the international... ah I'd love to see like the winter break come back into force. But, you know, again, we we'll have to see what happens, really.
00:26:45
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:26:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
But we're going to take a quick break. And when we come back, we are going to talk about our latest signing, Eberici Eze, as he officially signed for the Arsenal on Saturday.
00:27:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
But join us after break as we discuss more about it.
00:27:16
Craig matthews
Thank you.
Eze's Signing and Potential Impact
00:27:41
Global Sports Podcast Network
Now, welcome back to this third and final part of the Arsenal v Leeds game. But we have to talk about our latest signing.
00:27:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
And it's the fact that we have signed Eberichieze from Crystal Palace. I mean, ah try not to go i I try not to go on about it and I really try not to talk about it because I just don't want to, like, trigger my girlfriend.
00:28:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
But, oh my goodness, Craig... It still feels surreal. It really feels so surreal with this signing.
00:28:13
Craig matthews
Mm-hmm. Hmm.
00:28:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, he he was a former... You know, he was in the academy and we let him go. And yet, he done so well at at QPR, done amazingly well at Palace...
00:28:33
Global Sports Podcast Network
And now have signed him for 68 million pounds. What are your thoughts?
00:28:42
Craig matthews
I was watching an interview today with him and on Ian Wright. today I watched the full interview with Ian Wright and i saw of one here run me um dig the Thierry Henry was the biggest influence at Arsenal when it was there but he was there the first time.
00:28:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, yeah.
00:28:52
Global Sports Podcast Network
Mm-hmm.
00:28:54
Craig matthews
so I that he deserved it. He worked so hard. I remember he saying his mum prayed that he would that he' get an opportunity opportunities to play back for Arsenal and he had the opportunity.
00:29:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:29:06
Craig matthews
and I felt that that goes to show anybody the foot who wants to become a footballer and they get a setback. Just look at Eze's career, look at Ian Wright's career, how they had to struggle.
00:29:17
Craig matthews
They had to go through trials and tribulations and they got the opportunity and they took it.
00:29:18
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:29:22
Craig matthews
And that's one thing I like about Crystal Palace, that they give players a chance. Because both of them came at Palace and are given a big chance.
00:29:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:29:29
Craig matthews
So it goes to show that if you're hungry, work hard, dedicated, you can make it. So you happen to work hard. And for him, he deserves it.
00:29:37
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, absolutely. I think, like you said there, Palace is a really good example of a club that can bring through raw talent. I mean, we've seen it before with Elise, you know, currently now with Adam Wharton, you know, Justin Deveny, who has come through the ranks.
00:29:55
Global Sports Podcast Network
um Who else? What other players but ah came to mind when we...
00:30:01
Craig matthews
climb the final
00:30:03
Global Sports Podcast Network
Klein, yeah, another one. And Eze, again, another good example. You know, Palace are a great team that really source players, especially from the Championship, remain Eze as well.
00:30:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, another one that's got a good, good potential in him. And I think he could have a good season ahead for Palace. But, I mean, in a way, for Eze now, it's he's completed this full circle. But...
00:30:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
but if you've not seen If you've not seen the interview with the with him and Ian Wright, it is absolutely worth checking out because... It's just amazing. And I mean, the announcement video, I think it was perfect.
00:30:46
Global Sports Podcast Network
You know, I don't think Arsenal missed. I know, obviously, we were talking, you know, about how it would have been really good if, obviously, Sol Campbell was there. But the Palace connection, just having that Palace connection.
00:30:58
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I think the the one bit of the video that really was like...
00:30:59
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:31:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
The one bit of the video that was like... Just kind of really had to rub the salt over Spurs was... Are you... What was the... I don't know exactly, exactly, word for word, but are you ready for the... Like, are you ready to join the Arsenal?
00:31:16
Global Sports Podcast Network
And he was like, well, obviously. was like, obviously.
00:31:19
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:31:20
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I'm like, yeah, that my that's my guy. That's my cam.
00:31:24
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:31:25
Global Sports Podcast Network
This is what I want. And you know what? From the moment he stepped foot on that pitch, you know, the song that was played on, let it all work out. I mean, just
00:31:35
Craig matthews
Hmm.
00:31:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
He's so wholesome. He's such a wholesome player. You know, he's never, he's never, you know, been, he's never complained. He's never once, you know, he's just so humble on and off the pitch. He's such a humble guy.
00:31:51
Global Sports Podcast Network
And i think all of them qualities along with his passion for the club is what will really help Arsenal. go places and him in his career will only go from strength to strength and again you've got to thank Palace and QPR for that
00:32:05
Craig matthews
Definitely.
00:32:11
Global Sports Podcast Network
but question is now you start him against Liverpool this coming weekend any reason
00:32:20
Craig matthews
Yes.
00:32:24
Craig matthews
Because he he he's a good player, he deserves start and he'll make a big impact. And the thing is we've got Dreads missing as well.
00:32:30
Global Sports Podcast Network
Say... Now, I was going to say, actually, say if... Say if, right, Odegaard was fit and, like, he didn't get injured. Then, would would you still start Eze in that situation?
00:32:47
Craig matthews
I think he needs to start. If I was a manager, I would start as he had to do before. I would rest on the guard now.
00:32:57
Global Sports Podcast Network
Same here.
00:32:57
Craig matthews
I think it's time have a change in that midfield.
Eze's Role Against Liverpool
00:33:01
Craig matthews
I think Norton has to be roof as a player. I think he's been too giving, giving, giving, giving and players are like, with Marte always playing and playing and playing and it's not worked out.
00:33:08
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah.
00:33:11
Craig matthews
So, I feel it needs to be that. know what, this season, if I want to win something, I've got be ruthless. I've got to be thinking about me, not just thinking about me, I've got to think about my future because I need to win something.
00:33:23
Craig matthews
So, I'll say, know what, I want to play as I paid a lot of money for you, not going put it on the bench. I want to start you and do your thing. And can always bring on Olivens second half.
00:33:34
Craig matthews
not like you can't bring them back on. So, Yeah.
00:33:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, that's very true. That is very true. i mean, for me, i would... There's a reason why I'd start Eze, actually. And it's simply because if you look at his last few performances at Anfield, they've pretty much resulted in goals or, you know, chances that have led to goals.
00:33:56
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I think that will be so key to breaking down Liverpool's defence.
00:33:56
Craig matthews
Mm-hmm.
00:34:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
And I just think, overall... as I've mentioned before, his passion for the club will really shine through. And I honestly cannot wait to see what we're going to see from Eze.
00:34:15
Craig matthews
yeah
00:34:15
Global Sports Podcast Network
Really cannot wait. Still surreal, but I think it it will become reality when I see him play on the pitch. Do you know I mean?
00:34:23
Craig matthews
um On hundred or Sunday, seeing him on that Arsenal number 10 shirt. and that number And there's so many great number 10s of one that shirt for Arsenal. I can name a few.
00:34:31
Global Sports Podcast Network
Just... Just quickly, yeah, before before we wrap before we wrap it up, how many number 10s can you name me that have worn the Arsenal shirt?
00:34:33
Craig matthews
ah
00:34:39
Global Sports Podcast Network
Because, look, you are not Mr. Encyclopedia for no reason. but How many number 10s can you name me?
00:34:44
Craig matthews
ah I think I can name you a few. Maybe
00:34:48
Global Sports Podcast Network
How many?
00:34:50
Craig matthews
three or four five, maybe.
00:34:53
Global Sports Podcast Network
you know what? I could probably name you six.
00:34:56
Craig matthews
Okay. Our first one I can remember was Paul Mercer, number 10. He was the first one I remember.
00:35:02
Global Sports Podcast Network
Okay. Yep.
00:35:03
Craig matthews
um After that was Dennis Bergkamp.
00:35:06
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yep.
00:35:07
Craig matthews
After Bergkamp was William Gallas for little while.
00:35:09
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yep.
00:35:11
Craig matthews
Then after William Gallas was Van Persie.
00:35:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yes.
00:35:14
Craig matthews
Then after Van Persie it was Jack Walshaw.
00:35:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
Ye-
00:35:18
Craig matthews
Then after the Jack Walshaw it was Mesut Ozil.
00:35:21
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yep.
00:35:22
Craig matthews
After Mesut Ozil was Smith Rowe.
00:35:26
Global Sports Podcast Network
yeah yep
00:35:28
Craig matthews
Then after Smith Rowe is Eze. So that's all the art stuff and that's... Yeah.
00:35:34
Global Sports Podcast Network
You're not Mr. Encyclopedia for no reason.
00:35:38
Craig matthews
Yeah.
00:35:38
Global Sports Podcast Network
Yeah, spot on. Bang on the money.
00:35:42
Craig matthews
Yeah.
00:35:42
Global Sports Podcast Network
Bang on the money. Oh, Van Persie and Wilshere, Ozil, Smith Rowe. Oh, my goodness me. what what what What a time of number 10s. And William Gallas, that's the one that i will forever bug me. How William Gallas was ever given the number 10 shirt for his position is beyond me.
00:36:04
Craig matthews
Feels like Captain as well. but but
00:36:05
Global Sports Podcast Network
I know, yeah. Unbelievable that he was our captain and he was given the number 10 shirt.
00:36:07
Craig matthews
Let's not talk about that. We'll talk about that and not get embarrassed. Yeah.
00:36:13
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, what an era of football that was, eh?
00:36:15
Craig matthews
Yeah. well
00:36:17
Global Sports Podcast Network
Oh, dear. But, guys...
Episode Conclusion
00:36:19
Global Sports Podcast Network
That is it for today's episode. Have you liked what we've had to say? If so, we'd love to hear your thoughts on social media. As always, make sure to go and show us some love and so and support us by subscribing to the GSPN Network all things Premier League, WSL, Serie World Cup and more.
00:36:36
Global Sports Podcast Network
You can find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify by searching Daily Arsenal. I've been your host, Jamie Patterson. He has been the amazing Mr. Encyclopedia, Craig Matthews,
00:36:47
Global Sports Podcast Network
Have a great day all and take care.
00:36:51
Craig matthews
yeah
00:37:04
Craig matthews
Thank you.