Nasri - No need to be flashy

Samir Nasri feels Arsenal can, at times, place too much importance on catching the eye.
The Gunners are renowned for their free-flowing football, but that approach has failed to deliver success over recent years.
The North London giants last secured a major trophy back in 2005, with the top prizes having eluded them despite their pleasing approach to the game.
French midfielder Nasri feels it may be time for Arsene Wenger's side to alter their approach, with it important that results take priority over performances.
Monday's 1-0 defeat to arch-rivals Manchester United highlighted Arsenal's deficiencies once again, with the setback at Old Trafford the latest in a long line of disappointing showings against their fellow title hopefuls.
"Goals and flamboyant football don't pose a problem for me," Nasri said in The Sun.
"The essential thing, though, is my team wins and we're in it at the end.
"Sometimes you have to store away your flashy clothes in the cupboard and work for the team.
"It was more of a tactical game against United, where you had to defend a lot. Patrice Evra was attacking well and combining well with Park Ji-sung.
"We were much more adventurous in the second half, given the fact we also had to respond after they took the lead.
"In the first half, we sat back and waited for them a bit. We didn't want to push too high up, because they always find each other in space, whether it's Park or Wayne Rooney playing on his own up front.
"We wanted to sit back and wait for them and we held out well until we conceded the goal four minutes from half-time.
"We came back into the match and had one or two chances to score but, unfortunately, just couldn't do it."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Arsenal 9/2
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Same old, same old

Sir Alex Ferguson would hardly have welcomed Patrice Evra's decision to cast himself as agent provocateur prior to last night's t?te-?-t?te with Arsenal but having out thought his old sparring partner Arsene Wenger so comprehensively he might just afford himself a chuckle on a morning in which he awoke to find his side top of the table with a game in hand.
United's left-back has a history of dropping verbal bombs, he offered to replay France's World Cup play-off with Republic of Ireland after Thierry Henry's infamous handball on his PlayStation, and it would seem his assertion that Arsenal are little more than a 'training centre' rankled both Wenger and his players more than they'd care to concede.
While publically no Emirates regular would back the words of one of the old enemy the Frenchman is hardly a solitary voice in proffering his view Arsenal are in danger of becoming a luxury Crewe, with Wenger's mantra of principles over pots not dissimilar to Dario Gradi's at Gresty Road.
Travelling to Old Trafford in the knowledge they had won there only twice in their past 11 visits an inferiority complex would have been understandable, with each robust early challenge forcing sub-editors across the country to seriously ponder for the first time in years whether a 'Men versus Boys' headline could justifiably be regurgitated yet again.
It would be an exaggeration to suggest Arsenal's tackling in the opening 20 minutes was spiteful but there was an edge to it that had Howard Webb been in a more pernickety mood might have seen his notebook filled sooner. Arsenal have now earned 21 yellow cards in their last four Premier League visits to Old Trafford so if nothing else their 'southern softies' moniker is looking tired.
In the end though, with the embers of Arsenal's early fire soon extinguished on a cold night in Manchester, it was a case of same-old, same-old. Wenger claimed at full-time somewhat pompously 'on both sides you have seen technical mistakes because the pitch is not good enough to play good football', which came across more as a further indictment of his side's inability to change tack as circumstances dictate than a valid excuse for defeat.
Despite the Old Trafford groundsmen's inability to provide silk grass the surface was hardly unplayable.
Wenger is quick to criticise those sides that play 'anti-football' and patronise practitioners of a direct style but while their fans enjoyed chanting 'hoof' every time Edwin van der Sar went from back to front to find Wayne Rooney from his hands, Arsenal are in danger of becoming similarly one dimensional. Wenger's style of football is as aesthetically pleasing as Sam Allardyce's is ugly, but in terms of delivering silverware it's proved no more successful in the past few years.
Arsenal's technicians are too cute for middling outfits that content themselves to sit, soak and rely on the counter-attack to offer a threat of their own but against the top sides that have players of a similar calibre, Wenger's reluctance to make changes either tactically or stylistically is frequently exposed as being foolhardy.
United have been accused of being overly negative for employing Michael Carrick as a shield in front of the back four but while on an individual level he was at times guilty of profligacy in possession, his discipline allowed the improving Anderson and Darren Fletcher licence to play yard dogs in snapping into their opponents further up the field.
Anderson has only ever hinted at his potential since joining United from Porto - it's often forgotten he is in fact Ferguson's fifth most expensive signing ever - but in the past month he has started to play with a consistency that has previously eluded him. It was the Brazilian, 22, that caught the eye over Arsenal's own wonderkids Jack Wilshere and Samir Nasri, with his ability to pickpocket opponent's passes a frequent frustration for the away side. If he can add a shot to match his engine to drive forward and cover ground remarkably quickly, United might just have a complete midfielder on their hands.
Ferguson has made no secret of his admiration for Arsenal's midfield and his strength, others deem it as a negative, is that he's not too proud to change his own side's make-up accordingly.
This current United team is not the buccaneering one of yesteryear and as such while some fans reared on a tradition of 'attack, attack, attack!', struggle to comprehend Ferguson's insistence of employing a solitary front man for the 'big' games, Berbatov must have thought he'd been caught drowning a bag of black cats after being dropped after a five-goal salvo, the proof invariably is in the pudding and three points suggest the Scot got his tactics spot on.
Arsenal dominated possession in spells but quickly ran out of ideas to break down United's staunchly disciplined game plan. Happy to allow Arsenal to dictate in areas of the field where they couldn't be hurt, United's collective ability not to be lured out of position meant Arsenal flirted with the idea of getting in all night but ultimately left Manchester without so much as a snog on the doorstep.
Much has been made of United's mediocrity this season despite remaining unbeaten in the league and, other than the demolition of Blackburn, it's not an unjust criticism. That they sit at the summit is primarily due to a settled backline rather than expansive attack. It's also a pretty ominous sign for their rivals as they look to click into gear over the festive period.
Rio Ferdinand's immaculate return following a serious injury has laid to bed claims he was finished as a top class centre-half and again on Monday, other than for a rash challenge on Bacary Sagna that should have brought him a booking, he barely put a foot wrong all evening.
A Rolls Royce of a defender to Nemanja Vidic's Monster Truck the pair are an almost perfect partnership of poise and power, with Ferdinand's last foul prior to last night's game coming on April 11 2010 against Blackburn, a remarkable 246 days ago. Compare their compatibility to that of Sebastien Squillaci and Laurent Koscielny, along with a criminal lack of a reliable goalkeeper, and it's not to hard to comprehend why Arsenal are seen as having fast feet but a glass chin.
An ill-tempered Wenger turned on the press after the game and snapped when asked to pinpoint Arsenal's frailties in repeatedly coming up short in the big games.
"Why do we always seem to lose these big games? If you are a football specialist I leave this analysis to you. Why do you ask me, because you know everything?"
Given Arsenal are still very much in the title hunt and a defeat at Old Trafford is hardly the catalyst for a roots and branch investigation into where it's all gone wrong, Wenger is right in his assessment now is not the time for panic. His ire at the press though cannot mask a shortcoming in his side's DNA that he is too intelligent not to realise ultimately stops at his door.
His side have now drawn one and lost 10 of their last 11 fixtures against the Premier League's big two. If Wenger can't figure out a way to improve on this statistic Arsenal will forever remain the prettiest bridesmaid who never quite makes it down the aisle herself.
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Wenger maintains title hope

Arsene Wenger is adamant that Arsenal did not fail to deliver on the big occasion in the wake of his side's Premier League defeat to Manchester United.
Ji-Sung Park's 41st minute header decided Monday night's match at Old Trafford as the hosts overtook their visitors to move two points clear at the top of the table.
The loss has resulted in renewed accusations that Arsenal's young team show naivety and inexperience when it matters most.
But Wenger, whose side have already lost to Chelsea among their five league defeats this season, does not think the Gunners should be criticised for a disappointing display against United and he has instead criticised the Old Trafford pitch.
The Frenchman told Sky Sports, when asked if Arsenal could have taken something from the game: "I believe yes, because we gave everything.
"The game was very intense, both teams were well-organised, the intensity of the game was very high and on a very bad pitch.
"Overall, the technical quality of the game suffered from a very bad pitch and that was why on both sides you've seen unusual technical mistakes."
Wenger added: "I don't think we failed to deliver; we lost a game and that can happen here."
Asked if he was confident that his current squad could still go on to win the title, he said: "Of course, we have to take a lot of encouragement from tonight's game."
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Wenger hails Szczesny quality

Arsene Wenger is confident Wojciech Szczesny has a bright future following his performance in Arsenal's defeat at Manchester United.
Szczesny was handed his Premier League debut at Old Trafford on Monday night due to Lukasz Fabianski carrying a slight knock and Manuel Almunia reportedly suffering a fresh injury.
The 20-year-old did not disappoint in the clash between the title rivals and could do nothing to prevent Park Ji-sung's first-half header securing United the points.
He made good saves from Anderson and Wayne Rooney in the second half and impressed Wenger with his handling.
Wenger had no qualms about pitching the rookie keeper into such an important game and the Gunners boss feels Szczesny displayed his potential.
"Overall that was a good performance from Wojciech. The goalkeeper performed well," said Wenger.
"He was a bit nervous in his kicking but he didn't make any mistakes with his hands.
"It was a big game. But in this job you do not look at the size of the game. You look at the quality of the player.
"Every big goalkeeper started at 18 or 19. I saw (Edwin) Van der Sar play in big games when he was 18."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Arsenal 9/2
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Carlo - We're back on track

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Carlo Ancelotti was encouraged by Chelsea's performance in the 1-1 draw with Tottenham after a dismal recent run.
The Blues had failed to win their previous four Premier League games going into Sunday's clash at White Hart Lane and were once again only able to share the points.
However, they came closest to claiming victory as Didier Drogba saw a stoppage-time penalty saved by Heurelho Gomes.
Ancelotti admits the outcome was disappointing but feels Chelsea played well enough to suggest their blip is now over.
"It was very important to win, we deserved to win, but we didn't," said the Italian.
"I think we are on the right way. This game shows we are on our way back.
"We played well, started well. When we were down we didn't lose composure or control.
"We deserved to win. We were very close, we will win our next game."
Drogba stepped up to take the late penalty even though Frank Lampard had come on as a substitute following a lengthy injury lay-off.
Ancelotti insists the England midfielder was not in contention for spot-kick duties, explaining: "Frank Lampard was not able to shoot because he was not able to train.
"Didier missed a penalty but he had a good performance and scored a good goal."
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Collins eyes Potters response

Stoke City defender Danny Collins is hoping his team-mates can avenge their surprise defeat to Blackpool by upsetting Arsenal.
The Potters suffered a 1-0 defeat to Ian Holloway's promoted side on Saturday thanks to DJ Campbell's goal early in the second half.
Stoke can ill-afford to feel sorry for themselves as next up is a daunting trip to high-flying Arsenal, a ground where they have lost twice since returning to the top flight.
Collins is hoping Arsenal's open style of football could provide them with chances to score while he also believes Rory Delap's long throws could allow the visitors to test their hosts' physically.
"We have to pick ourselves up and get ready for the trip to Arsenal. They play open football, so hopefully, we will get one or two chances," said Collins.
"If we can shut up shop at the back and keep it tight you never know. At our place we seem to have something going over them, but at their place they are going to have 80 per cent of the possession.
"But maybe Rory Delap's throw-ins will give us a chance to test them physically.
"The Britannia Stadium is quite intimidating for the Arsenal and teams like that, but Blackpool brought a load of fans who were quite vocal behind the goal.
"They played some good football and I don't think they were intimidated at all."
Arsenal 2/7, Draw 9/2, Stoke 9/1
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Man Utd v Arsenal preview

Relations may have thawed between Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger in recent years, but there is always a whiff of hostility in the air when Manchester United meet old rivals Arsenal.
Battles between United and Arsenal are arguably the most eagerly anticipated of the season and Old Trafford has regularly been the scene for some infamous conflicts between the two clubs.
Last season saw Arsene Wenger farcically stand among the supporters after being sent from the dug-out, while the games in 2003 and 2004 both provided controversy.
Wenger described United's performance in the Red Devils' 2-1 win in the corresponding fixture last term as 'anti-football' while Darren Fletcher's 'dirty' style also came in for criticism.
However, while the Gunners were unfortunate to lose at Old Trafford, there was no arguing with the quality of United's ruthless performance in winning 3-1 at Emirates Stadium back in January when the teams last met.
That match perhaps marked the start of Nani's emergence as one of United's most influential performers and he will again be looking to terrorise Arsenal's full-backs.
Arsenal head north boasting the joint best away record in the Premier League and in possession of top spot after replacing United at the summit last weekend when the Red Devils' trip to Blackpool was postponed.
United, however, have the most formidable home record in the division this season and are now the only team still unbeaten in the league in England.
The Red Devils will be playing at home in the league for the first time since last month's 7-1 thrashing of Blackburn Rovers and Ferguson has the option of sticking with the same XI from that hammering.
The only changes could come in central midfield, with Fletcher a likely replacement for Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes fit again after a minor injury.
However, Anderson has impressed in recent matches and may keep his place at Scholes' expense while Patrice Evra is fit to start at left-back.
Wayne Rooney scored in both meetings against Arsenal last season and will be hoping to rediscover that past form after netting just twice from the penalty spot this term.
Gunners boss Wenger could spring a surprise in goal amid reports Wojciech Szczesny will make his Premier League debut at Old Trafford.
Szczesny's fellow Pole - Lukasz Fabianski - is struggling with a leg injury and the 20-year-old is tipped to get the nod ahead of former No.1 Manuel Almunia.
Wenger will also make a late decision on whether to play captain Cesc Fabregas, who has been struggling with a hamstring injury and he may be on the bench.
Kieran Gibbs is out with an ankle injury, but Gael Clichy is fit to return at left-back while Sebastien Squillaci will partner Laurent Koscielny in the continued absence of Thomas Vermaelen.
Jack Wilshere and Tomas Rosicky are likely to come back into midfield, with Denilson and Robin van Persie making way, while United have pinpointed the 12-goal Samir Nasri as Arsenal's biggest threat.
Man Utd: Van der Sar, Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Nani, Fletcher, Anderson, Park, Rooney, Berbatov.
Arsenal: Szczesny, Sagna, Squillaci, Koscielny, Clichy, Rosicky, Song, Wilshere, Nasri, Arshavin, Chamakh.
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Wenger urges Walcott patience

Arsene Wenger insists Theo Walcott will get his chance in the Arsenal team soon after admitting he understands the winger's current frustration.
Walcott has started only once in the Premier League for the Gunners since returning from an ankle injury back in October after starting the season in good form.
He could again be on the bench for Monday's trip to title rivals Manchester United and has voiced his frustration at the situation.
After coming on as a substitute to score against Partizan Belgrade in the UEFA Champions League last week, the 21-year-old admitted he is at the age where he needs to be starting games on a regular basis.
Wenger acknowledged Walcott's current predicament, but believes the England international will get his opportunity in the coming weeks.
"Frankly I can understand that because for me Theo Walcott is doing well," said Wenger. "For me he is not an impact player, he is a regular player.
"At the moment he does not play as often as he should but he will play soon.
"In fairness, Theo is fantastic. His attitude and behaviour has been absolutely great."
Man. Utd v Arsenal To Score in 90mins: Walcott, T. 4/1
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Vermaelen out until New Year

Arsene Wenger has confirmed Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen will not be back in action until at least the New Year.
Vermaelen has been sidelined since suffering an Achilles injury while playing for Belgium in a Euro 2012 qualifier against Turkey in early September.
It was initially thought the centre-half would only be out for a week before a return against Wolves in November had to be shelved.
The 25-year-old continues to be hampered by the injury and Wenger is unable to predict a firm date for Vermaelen's return.
Wenger is determined to have the former Ajax stopper back in his plans, but the Arsenal boss revealed he will not return before the end of the year.
"Vermaelen is in a [protective] boot," said Wenger on the club's official website.
"We want him back and I hope he will be back soon, but not before January."
Arsenal v Partizan Belgrade To Score a Brace: Nasri, S. 7/1
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Nasri - I have matured

After scoring twice in Arsenal's 2-1 win over Fulham their French star Samir Nasri is 20/1 to finished the season as the Premier League top goalscorer. Bet now.
Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri has credited his growing maturity for his improved form this season.
The France international was influential for the Gunners as he fired a superb brace to seal their 2-1 triumph at home to Fulham on Saturday and send them top of the Premier League.
That double takes Nasri's goal tally this season to 11 in all competitions, and the 23-year-old feels his recent prowess in front of the net is down to his development as a player.
"When I'm in front of a goalkeeper I am more relaxed now," Nasri told The Independent.
"Before I felt too much pressure to score, I wanted it too much maybe. Now I don't worry as much.
"I'm more at ease in the game and I'm not just looking for goals, I'm looking to work for the team.
"I think I'm more mature in my football game. I think more with my head."
Man. Utd Evens, Draw 12/5, Arsenal 11/4
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Sagna ready for big week

Bacary Sagna believes Arsenal could fire a warning to the rest of the footballing world over the next week.
Arsenal take on Partizan Belgrade on Wednesday, knowing victory will seal their progression into the UEFA Champions League knock-out stages.
After their latest European adventure, they face Manchester United in one of the most eagerly awaited Premier League clashes of the season so far.
"If we want to be successful, we have to win these big games. In our first of the season, against Chelsea, we dropped points," said Sagna.
"We have dropped so many points at home that we need to win these games. At United, we want to play our game and win.
"We do not want the season to be over at the end of December. We want to win these next two matches and give even more power to the team.
"Going top of the League was the big point of Saturday. We have had many problems winning at home and I think we needed to be more focused.
"We have to keep looking forward. We have some big games coming up."
Champions League Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Arsenal 14/1
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Ramsey on fitness mission

Aaron Ramsey is determined to put his injury nightmare in the past and return to maximum fitness.
Having suffered an horrific broken leg at Stoke last February, the Arsenal midfielder recently made a surprise loan move to Nottingham Forest.
After nine months on the sidelines, Ramsey returned to first-team football in Forest's defeat to Midlands rivals Leicester on Monday night.
The Wales international is now determined to use the time at the City Ground to get back to his best and help the Championship club climb the table.
Nineteen-year-old Ramsey, who will return to Arsenal in January, said in the Daily Mirror: "I've been out for a long time and just to be out there and playing again made me realise how much football means to me.
"I've missed a lot of the year, but it was so good to be back in the swing of things.
"Obviously the first two months after the injury were the hardest. I couldn't really move much, although I was encouraged to try to get on my feet. My friends and family helped me get through it.
"I'm here to get back to 100 per cent and hopefully win as many games for Forest as possible. I want to try and get them going in the right direction.
"I felt alright and I'm still a way off playing 90 minutes but my fitness is coming along nicely. I've been out for nine months and these are what these games are for."
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Chamakh sets goal target

Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh has set his sights on reaching a 20-goal target in his first season at Emirates Stadium.
The Morocco international arrived on a free transfer from Bordeaux in the summer after his contract expired and has immediately made his mark in the Premier League.
Chamakh reached double figures for the season in all competitions with his effort in the 4-2 victory over Aston Villa last weekend and has vowed to continue to lead from the front.
The 26-year-old has paid tribute to the Gunners' players and staff who have helped him settle into life in England to aid his goalscoring quest.
"For me, if I can weigh in with 15 to 20 goals, it would be a very, very good season," Chamakh told the club's official website.
"Whatever happens I hope to continue my progress.
"It has gone really well with the set-up here, I hardly knew anyone when I arrived, but they have all made me feel very welcome.
"It has been easy to settle in and this has allowed me to express myself and that's very important. Personally, I am happy, but I can do better."
Chamakh has become an instant hit with the Gunners supporters, and certainly offers Arsene Wenger's side something different in attack.
"I give 200 per cent, I play with my heart, I've got guts, I give everything I've got," Chamakh added.
"I don't cheat or cut corners, that's my strength, my character and I think that they [fans] like me for it."
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Moses facing three months out

Roberto Martinez has admitted he fears the worst after Victor Moses underwent further scans on a dislocated shoulder.
The Wigan striker suffered the injury landing awkwardly in Tuesday's 2-0 Carling Cup defeat to Arsenal and was initially expected to be sidelined for around six weeks.
But he has been sent for more examinations and Martinez is now anticipating a three-month lay-off.
Moses could therefore be out of action until the start of March and Martinez admits it would be difficult to cope without a player who has blossomed this season after moving to the DW Stadium from Crystal Palace last winter.
"It is a huge setback. We haven't got the final assessment but we fear the worst," he said.
"It seems it could be the best part of three months that we are going to miss
Victor.
"It is a real blow. He has worked hard to earn his place in the side and he has done that with real style. You could see slowly he was imposing himself.
"Now he has been knocked back by an injury but we will make sure he comes back ready to have a big say in the final three months of the campaign."
Wigan v Stoke 1st Goalscorer: Boselli, M. 8/1
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Denilson eyes trophies

Arsenal ace Denilson does not see why the club cannot win everything they are playing for this season.
The Brazilian insists the club must keep their concentration, but does not see why they cannot end their trophy drought which dates back to 2005.
Denilson is in no doubt once that illusive first winners medal comes along, the rest will all swiftly follow.
"I think we can win it this season, and I want to win it this season because for five or six years we haven't won any trophies, but now we are a little bit stronger than last season," the 22-year-old Brazilian declared.
"Last season we lost some big games, and this season we are more experienced.
"We have a great team, we have young players, but quality as well."
Denilson added: "If we focus on every single game we have a chance to win - not only the Carling Cup, but also the FA Cup, the Champions League and the Premier League, which are more important for us."
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Cesc won't rush return

Cesc Fabregas insists he will not rush his recovery from a hamstring problem and will wait until he is fully fit before returning to action.
The Arsenal skipper is currently sidelined with an injury picked up while on UEFA Champions League duty against Braga.
He was forced to limp off in Portugal, providing a fresh setback to what has already been a stop-start season.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger revealed that he expected to be without his captain for around a fortnight, with it hoped that Fabregas would be back for a crunch clash with Manchester United on 13th December.
The World Cup-winning midfielder has stopped short of setting himself a comeback target, though, as he knows it is imperative that he is 100 per cent if he is to avoid further breakdowns in the future.
"I don't want to put a date on my return yet, I will take my time," Fabregas said in his programme notes for Tuesday's Carling Cup quarter-final clash against Wigan.
"The team did really well without me against Aston Villa, so I will wait until it is completely ready.
"It is so frustrating, though. It seems when something like that happens, it all goes wrong at the same time, so you have to be strong, put everything behind you and keep working."
Fabregas admits he is yet to hit top gear this season, following a draining summer in South Africa, but feels it is only a matter of time before he is back to his talismanic best.
"I know I haven't been at my best this season," added the Spaniard.
"I started the season really strongly, the first few games, but after that I had an injury and got into a pattern of missing a few games, and then starting again.
"So it is better my team-mates play, because they are fitter than me.
"I will just try to get back whenever I can. My team-mates are helping me a lot and I am trying my best."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Arsenal 9/2
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Moratti rejects Fab talk

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has rejected rumours linking him with a move for Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.
Reports in Italy and England have claimed the European champions are planning a big-money move for Gunners schemer Fabregas.
Fabregas' future at Arsenal has been the subject of speculation for some time with the Spanish international strongly linked with a move to Barcelona in the summer.
Arsenal managed to keep hold of Fabregas, but speculation over his long-term future in North London refuses to go away.
However, Moratti insists he does not expect Fabregas to make the move to the San Siro.
"Cesc Fabregas to Inter? I believe he won't arrive," Moratti told Ansa.
Moratti also played down talk linking Inter with a move for unsettled Sampdoria striker Antonio Cassano.
Cassano seems set to leave Sampdoria after a bust-up with club president Riccardo Garrone and he has been linked with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Juventus and Roma.
Moratti is a big admirer of Italian international Cassano, but he claims talk of a switch to Inter is just "fantasy".
He added: "Cassano is undoubtedly a great player, I read in the newspapers that we have made progress, but I don't think so.
"These are just rumours that don't match the truth. His arrival is fantasy football."
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Wenger - Keep the faith

Arsenal are now 9/2 to win the Premier League after their 4-2 win at Aston Villa. Bet now.
Arsene Wenger has urged Arsenal supporters to "keep the faith" that his long-nurtured side will deliver success.
The Gunners avoided their third defeat on the trot when they recorded a morale-boosting 4-2 win over Aston Villa on Saturday.
Last weekend's defeat to bitter rivals Tottenham, followed by the UEFA Champions League defeat in Braga sparked talk of a crisis at Arsenal, but Wenger insists they are well placed to end their hunt for silverware.
"For over two months we have played every three days, and part of that is sometimes you have ups and downs. It is how you respond to that," noted Wenger.
"The problem at the moment is that when these kind of things happen, everybody is emphasising the negative sides. I am still quite optimistic, even if disappointed by the results.
"I have no major reason to doubt the team and the players, so even if my disappointment was huge, maybe that is why I am less down than many people because I see all the positive signs which are in my team.
"I am confident on the longer-term, like it is a marathon, that will all come out - keep with us, and keep faith with the team. I know their attitude is spot on, I know they have the quality - and we will not always lose games where the opponent only has one shot on goal."
Barclays Prem Winner 10/11 Win Outright: Arsenal 9/2
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Ramsey pens Forest loan deal

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has joined Championship club Nottingham Forest on loan until 3rd January 2011, the North London club have announced.
The 19-year-old, who recently made his long-awaited comeback after suffering a broken leg in February, successfully came through 45 minutes for the Gunners reserves against Wolves on Tuesday.
Arsenal confirmed the loan deal on their official website, revealing the reason behind the move is to allow Ramsey to "gain match fitness and sharpness".
The club added: "Everyone at Arsenal Football Club wishes Aaron the best of luck during his time with Nottingham Forest and we all look forward to seeing him once again in an Arsenal shirt in the New Year."
Ramsey arrived at Emirates Stadium in June 2008 from Cardiff City, having been the youngest player to represent the Bluebirds.
The Welsh international, who has made a total of 51 appearances for Arsenal, scoring five times, penned a new long-term deal with the Gunners in the summer.
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Fortnight out for Fabregas

With Fabregas ruled out, Arsenal are 9/4 to endure a third-successive defeat when they travel to Aston Villa on Saturday. Bet now.
Arsenal have revealed that club captain Cesc Fabregas is set to be sidelined for two weeks with a hamstring injury.
The Gunners have also announced that Emmanuel Eboue will be missing for at least four weeks as he nurses a knee ligament problem.
Both men sustained the injuries during Tuesday's 2-0 defeat to Braga in the UEFA Champions League.
Fabregas had been carrying a problem into that contest and was forced to hobble from the field with just over 20 minutes remaining.
He was followed down the tunnel by Eboue shortly afterwards, with the versatile Ivorian stretchered off eight minutes from time.
Arsenal continue to assess the full extent of both injuries, but Arsene Wenger has admitted that the pair are set to be out of action for the foreseeable future.
"Eboue has a medial knee ligament strain," he said told Arsenal TV Online.
"It can be four weeks, can be six weeks or can be eight weeks. But I think it will be four weeks minimum.
"Fabregas will be assessed today (Thursday) with a scan. After that we can tell you how long he will be out, but I count two weeks.
"It is a big blow because it will question how cautious we have to be in the future with him. Cesc has played 50 games a year since a young age. We may have to be more cautious with him, especially in the next two months."
Wenger has, however, received some welcome news on the injury front, with Manuel Almunia and Aaron Ramsey having made their return to action in the reserves.
Both may be forced to bide their time as they await a first-team recall, but there is an outside chance that they could be involved at Aston Villa on Saturday.
"We have a lot of bumps and bruises but everyone else should be available," said Wenger.
"Almunia should be capable to play but I will see how he reacts.
"Ramsey needs competitive games. He played 45 minutes and he did well. We need to get him slowly and progressively into competition mode."
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