Gooner Talk

Gooner Talk can exclusively reveal that Arsene Wenger has refused to deny the consistent rumours concerning Russia forward Andrey Arshavin.

Zenit St Petersberg star Arshavin has attracted an array of admiring clubs on the strength of two spectacular Euro 2008 performances against Sweden and the Netherlands, Arsenal are said to be one of them.

French tactician Wenger admitted on French TV that he doesn’t have £40 million to spend in the January transfer window, but surprisingly revealed what positions he’s looking to strengthen in and also answered a question about Arshavin.

Wenger, speaking to Canal + said:

“I start feeling the crisis but I can’t spend £40m. We are looking at a creative player and another midfielder.”

When asked about the Arshavin link, Wenger replied with a coy smile and answer.

“Be a little patient. From the moment you give a name, you remove 50% chance of success to sign him.”

Whilst talking to British broadcaster Sky Sports, once again the Arsenal boss remained secretive on his January transfer plans.

You can watch the interview with Sky here.

Zenit St Petersberg star Arshavin has attracted an array of admiring clubs on the strength of two spectacular Euro 2008 performances against Sweden and the Netherlands.

It seems Arshavin is destined to be the replacement for Cesc Fabregas after the Spaniard sustained a long-term knee injury that will keep him out for four months.

With thanks to Vince from ASCFR for the French TV quotes and JD for the Canal + link.

Gooner Talk have managed to carry out an exclusive interview featuring one of France’s most passionate and talented football journalists – Philippe Auclair.

In his homecountry, Auclair is renowned for his work in the music industry where his name – Louis Philippe – was associated with the short-lived, but very influential ‘él record label’; since this label’s demise (1989), he has grown into one of the ‘elder statesmen’ of indiepop.

Philippe – who is a hardcore Gooner himself – works for RMCinfo, arguably the biggest radio station in France. He’s also a regular contributor to FranceFootball where he posts a daily blog on all things footy, definitely one to read.

Our British readers may be more familiar with Auclair’s work on Setanta Sports News as their French football analyst, as well as popular radio stations TalkSPORT radio & BBC Scotland.

Part 1 of the interview includes:

• Philippe’s opinions on the latest young crop of Arsenal talent coming up through the ranks.

• His views on why Michel Platini made a ‘personal attack’ against Gunners boss Arsene Wenger via the French media.

• What Philippe thinks about the squad in terms of experience and quality of football.

• Arsenal’s chances of winning silverware this season and if so, what trophy are we most likely to claim.

And much, much more!

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