Greetings Gooners! It is cold and damp here in London (shocker). Apparently every sick person was flying out of Dulles International Airport on Christmas Eve. Upon our arrival into London I noticed that I could not swallow, and that I was sweaty, sticky, and generally very uncomfortable. Christmas morning came, and Santa had visited. I must admit, that 2009 was a rough year, but I could have sworn that I was not on the naughty list. I mean, I pay my taxes, I am nice to the elderly, and we give to the poor. Heck, I even started recycling this year . . . I mean, that has to count for something.
So, back to Santa. He came alright . . . and slapped me in the face with a sickness unlike I have ever seen. Did I ask to be sick . . . NO. Did Santa get me sick . . . possibly. That is an item for discussion on another day. So off to the Chelsea Westminster Hospital. The Mrs. kept me focused, as we headed into unknown territory . . . international healthcare. Yet another discussion for another day, but they saw me, masked me . . . and the Mrs. . . . prescribed some sweet drugs, and I was on my way.
So, I am alive and well, and ready to face the Villains of Villa. Am I playing? Absolutely not. Am I going to be singing, and cheering . . . absolutely. So why is important that I am better, and that the amazing English drugs that I was prescribed have gone into effect? Because I have all of the tickets . . . ah, now you see the connection. So it really isn’t about me, and much as it is about everyone else . . . I mean come on . . . I’m not that important. I believe that our Road Trippers are going to provide that extra bit of support that is needed for the 3 points tomorrow. With 30 Americans singing and cheering, that has to count for something.
Villa will be in full strength, and are riding high after their impressive win over Manchester United at Old Trafford. If you remember our fixture against them last season . . . well, it didn’t go too well. Almunia saved a PK in the 1st half, only for us to drop two goals in short succession, and loose the match. I am hoping that the lessons of last season will ring in the lads ears as Arsene prepares them for battle. Villa are playing in form, and were at one point last season a clinch to kick us out of the Champions League this season. I for one am sick of fighting for 4th. We can win this league. Chelsea are dropping points, and Manchester United are not the same without Ronaldo. Our time is now, and Villa are standing in the way of our first title since 2003/2004. We do get some relief with the return of Armand Traore at Left Back. Silvestre is old, and needs his rest. Cesc is 50/50, and I for one am hoping that the 50 that gets him on the pitch for a full 90 shows up. Beyond that, we are still dealing with a multitue of injuries. Arshavin, Diaby, Eduardo, and even Theo (yes Theo, you will need to score one of these days to show your worth . . . how about tomorrow) will need to link well, and smother the Villans on defense. Our back line will need to be smart and strong. All in all, we must treat this game as if we are playing . . . well, Villa.
The Road Trip started off with a bang at the Meet and Greet in London this evening. 15 Americans took The Sports Cafe by storm. There were a few London Gooners at the pub, and were surprised to see so many Americans ready to take on the mantle of supporters extraordinaire for tomorrow’s match. I can say with pride that our debates about players, positions, Arsene’s tactics, and more put even the most ardent Gooner at a place of respect . . . “I’m Arsenal Till I Die, I’m Arsenal, Till I Die, I Know I Am, I’m Sure I Am, I’m Arsenal Till I Die!”
So, the Arsenal America 2009 Road Trip strategy session has been mapped out. Sing and conquer! Don’t forget to check with your local branch managers for TV channels and kick-off times.
3-Nil to the Arsenal
3-Nil to the Arsenal
3-Nil to the Arsenal
To the Arsenal 3-Nil
COME ON YOU GUNNERS!
