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Portal [link="http://www.eurofootball.com"]"EuroFootball.com"[/link] is bringing back the column "Fans' Thoughts"! Before the most important, interesting, and highly anticipated matches, we talk to fans who are passionate supporters of the teams entering the duel.
Approaching the clash in the English "Premier League" between London clubs, our forum member Sleimas agreed to answer our seven questions.
" "EuroFootball.com": How did you start supporting London's "Arsenal"? Have you been a fan of this club for a long time? What were the first "Gunner" matches you watched and what was the result?
Sleimas: I've been seriously following Arsenal since 2003. It was quite challenging to watch matches back then - I had to settle for the Champions League and a few others found online. Over time, that interest grew and at least for now, it hasn't waned.
The match in 2000 between "Arsenal" and "Shakhtar" - I don't know if those were the first matches I saw, but they were very memorable and probably partly the reason why I support the "Gunners". "Arsenal" snatched a stunning victory of 3-2, even though "Shakhtar" scored two goals first. And what about the fact that Keown scored twice.
"EuroFootball.com": The first clash of this season with "Man City" ended with a crushing victory for "Arsenal". Can we expect a similar scenario today?
Sleimas: At the "Emirates" stadium, "Arsenal" can probably "overwhelm" any team, but a crushing victory is not a likely option. I think the matches will be more balanced than the first ones - they were significantly affected by the red card.
"EuroFootball.com": What will determine the outcome of the match on Wednesday?
Sleimas: "Arsenal's" defense. The "Gunners" can score against anyone, but it is also hard to defend against anyone. I have no doubt that "Man City" will not keep clean sheets, but I am very worried about our own defense.
"EuroFootball.com": Which players will play the most crucial role in the match? Is there a player in the opponent's camp that you would like to see in an "Arsenal" jersey?
Sleimas: I would say Silva, but it seems that we won't see him. In that case, I'm worried about Tevez - even after all the scandals, his form hasn't dropped significantly. In the match against "Blackpool," Tevez missed the target, but overall you can't say that his game was poor.
Among the "Man City" players, for very objective reasons, I would like to see Hart in an "Arsenal" jersey. I also sympathize with Adam Johnson, but he wouldn't be needed.
"EuroFootball.com": Have the club's goals in the English "Premier League" and the UEFA Champions League changed halfway through the season? What final results in these tournaments would satisfy you?
Sleimas: I didn't have high hopes for the Champions League either at the beginning of the season or now. If "Arsenal" loses to "Barcelona," there won't be any particular disappointment. Anyway, they are the stronger team.
A bit differently for the Premier League. I was a big optimist before the season, but the unstable and poorly performing defense brought me back to reality. I'm not saying I've completely given up hope, but "Man Utd" are clear favorites.
"EuroFootball.com": What is your opinion of former "Arsenal" players now wearing "blue" jerseys?
Sleimas: I feel only respect and gratitude towards Kolo Toure for the years he spent at the club. He left, first of all, at the club's initiative, and he has always spoken positively about "Arsenal."
Adebayor... It's a pity that his brain is inversely proportional to the length of his legs. I don't like him very much for the first match with "Arsenal" after moving to "Man City." Also for all the antics and speeches. And after his best season with "Arsenal," he got a huge contract thanks to blackmail and his game immediately declined. I will never respect such players.
"EuroFootball.com": What will be the final result of the match? Who will score goals?
Sleimas: 2-1 in favor of "Arsenal." Goals by Nasri, Tevez, and van Persie. Although I never seem to be able to predict results.
"EuroFootball.com": Thank you for your time!
[link="http://www.eurofootball.com/index.php?page=news&id=22314"]"Arsenal" - "Man City": fans' thoughts (Part II)[/link]
If you want to contribute to this column, write an email to [email protected] and don't forget to mention your supported team. We will definitely get in touch with you!"
