The injury list keeps mounting

Three games into the Champions League Group stages and we are optimistically looking at the knockout stages of the Champions League. And in a home game against AZ Alkmaar, we like to do nothing but to seal it. However thwarting us in our attempts is the latest news that Gael Clichy has succumbed to a back injury and could be sidelined for several weeks to come. Looking at our form this season at home, with or without Clichy, we shall book a place in the round of 16  tomorrow. Though Alkmaar proved themselves to be a tough side to beat eventually stealing a point, one wonders if they have enough to challenge us at our own turf.

11Gunners looks at tomorrow’s game and what Clichy’s injury means in the longer run..

Clichy’s injury proves to be a blessing in disguise for young Kieran Gibbs who will have to hold the mantle of the coveted left back position. While he has shown to be capable enough with his pace and alacrity, pressure situations have tested him thoroughly though he has still to pass that test. Gibbs is expecting a call from the English national squad so there can be no better way of proving on the big stage.

Also, Niklas Bendtner who limped off in the first half of the North London derby will be atleast out for 4 weeks. Rosicky and Walcott contiune to be absentees. Even without these warriors, we seem to have enough firepower to dispel Alkmaar for whom it hasn’t exactly been a pretty season, either domestically or in Europe.

But under the tutelage of Ronald Koeman, the Dutch brigade know that any chances of progress requires a positive result tomorrow. So there is no scope of complacency as far as the Gunners are concerned. But with a perfectionist like Wenger in charge, one feels the hunger in this team will be never ending.

Match Prediction

Arsenal 3-0 AZ Alkmaar

Yes on paper or even otheriwse we have too much quality for the dutch side. If we get our flowing game kickstarted, the 3 I have predicted could easily go upto 5 or a number that will haunt Koeman and his boys for a time to come.

All prepared to get blown away as the Gunners welcome Alkmaar to the Emirates!!