Robin Returns

Sunday’s game is massive. In the short term we need a league win following our near-barren sojourn to the North East. Looking at the bigger picture, a victory will damage a resurgent Chelsea, and if Man Utd don’t take all the points at Liverpool, we can reassert some kind of distance between us and them. And of course, Ashley Cole needs to realise he made a very stupid decision in August 2006.

How are we going to win? It’s difficult to second guess Arsene on the line-up, his cards have been kept close to his chest on the injury situation, will any of Hleb, Flamini or Cesc return? The line is: ‘wait and see, but probably not’. Frankly, I suspect all three could be involved, along with the returning RVP. If they don’t come back, we will still win, because Robin Van Persie is a superstar. 75% fit or not, a Drogba-less, Essien-less Chelsea have no one who comes close.

Martin and I often argue over Arsenal’s best player, I say it’s our number 11. Yes he goes missing from games, yes he occasionally misplaces or miscontrols a pass, but he is the sole player in our team who can, from nowhere; on his own, win us a football match. This is a man who has the potential to be one of the finest players in the world. Since his absence we have missed his shooting, his free-kicks (Can someone tell Toure he’s not Roberto Carlos?), his ability to link midfield and defence, and his mesmerising close control in the box. 4-5-1 only works with Hleb/fabregas/Rosicky working in tandem, taking the pressure off Adebayor and giving him consistent service and support, Van Persie makes it even easier; with the first choice 4-4-1-1 expect a more liberated, and less world weary Togonator over the next few months.

So come Sunday, lets be thankful that Robin Van Persie: part Bergkamp, part Henry, is set to return and stick it up that horrible, deluded Championship Manger plaything, that calls itself a team.

David Forrest