Wenger - Watch...
At the launch of ArsenalTV this week, Sir Wenger has been speaking out about well pretty much everything to fill the schedule. Here he talks about his criteria which go towards his purchase of a player. It's as simple as going to watch the player live, and not just on video: “You try to get as many guarantees as you can but when you see a player you can know his character, there is no better study than to watch somebody play. When he goes on the football pitch he becomes who he really is. In normal life you can hide. On the football pitch you show who you really are. That is why you should watch a player well so you can see behind his character because he delivers that with his performance...”

Wenger added: “It is sometimes a question of time, we need to make quick decisions because we are competing with the other clubs. Some you have to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ without the time to get all the guarantees. You can go home at midnight and if you don’t make a decision by 5am then the guy has gone somewhere else. He’ll have two planes booked. One goes to, say, Paris St-Germain and one comes to London...”

I'll Ed Off One Day...
Eduardo has expressed his desire to end his career with Brazilian side Vasco de Gama, according to Tribal Football, he's said: "I want to have the chance to play a season in Brazilian football. I dream one day of playing for Vasco da Gama, which was the club of my childhood. However, to close my career, I hope to do so back at Dinamo Zagreb, which showed so much faith in me..."

Lassana Off the Menu...
Midfield enigma Lassana Diarra looks like he's about to sign for Portsmouth following his four starts for Arsenal. He's cited the lack of first team opportunity as his reasons for a move, but well done to him for giving it his best shot and sticking around to see how it goes. We'd wish him well, but a) we don't know who he is, and b) see a. Apparently Spurs, Newcastle and Man city were also showing interest in the 32 year old, 6 foot 9" ginger goalkeeper...

Ab Fab Mark II?
According to Tribal Football or similar toss website, Deportivo La Coruna young goalkeeper Fabricio has tentatively mentioned Arsenal, sparking a media and transfer frenzy: "It is pleasing to hear that news, but have not had any contact from Arsenal, Deportivo say that nobody has contacted them to speak with me, but I am prepared for anything. My vision is to play in Primera Division with Deportivo but if a fantastic opportunity arises, it is only natural to consider it. England, today, is a big market for young Spanish players..."

North London Giants After Arshavin...
No, this isn't a ritual ahead of a night out, but he plays for Russia apparently, and we and Spurs are said to be after signing him. Arshavin plays for Russian Champions Zenit St Petersburg but his agent has said: "We have three offers for Arshavin. All three are from strong European teams [surely ruling out Spurs there?] We are currently considering the pros and cons of each and carrying out consultations. Andrei wants to leave and is interested in playing abroad. Everything will be in place no later than Wednesday..."

The player admits: "Regarding my future, I have already said I'd like to try one of Europe's top leagues, among which Spain and England interest me most..." ...again ruling out Spurs...

More later readers... you know by know this isn't true, but you never know...