Here is an article an Arsenal fan wrote on a - wait for it - Arsenal forum. Nothing that we already know, but still nice to find out what our opponent fans think of us. (IMG:
http://cyrus.medialayer.net/~m1ke/milanfan.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
QUOTE
outlaw_member
03-03-2008, 10:19
The Arsenal squad will be preparing for arguably their most important game, so far this season. San Siro, which is the venue for the 2nd leg, is one of the most intimidating stadiums in Western Europe. Displaying some of the best choreography, that you could witness anywhere in the World. The tifosi are not only loud but a colourful bunch, like we witnessed at the Emirates. The Milanistas, pride themselves on their immense support to guide them through the Champions League campaign, similar to how Liverpool do with Anfield. A huge support can prove to be decisive in a tight game, and this tie, is as tight as it gets.
Clarence Seedorf picked up a hamstring injury, in Milan's recent league game, making him a major doubt for Tuesday. The Dutchman is an important component of Ancelotti’s midfield, which is vital in maintaining the tempo and counter-attacking tactic that Milan deploy. He was instrumental in the 3-0 destruction of United at the Semi-final stage, last season and losing him will definitely affect the Rossoneri. On the Arsenal front, Tomas Rosicky has been ruled out of the CL tie. The Czech playmaker was supposed to be back for the Blackburn game, several weeks ago, but is still yet to return. His injury problems seemed to be a thing of the past, when he managed to stay fit for a couple of months, only for it to return. The two club’s best defenders, Touré and Nesta, picked up injuries in the 1st leg at the Emirates. The Italian was past fit earlier today, whereas Kolo Touré will not be traveling with the Arsenal squad. Long term injuries to Ronaldo and Eduardo, has ruled them out of tie, the duo are out for 9 months. World Player of the year, Kaka and Andrea Pirlo have both been declared fit by Milan Lab coordinator Jean Meersseman, after taking part in training today. There’s also good news for Arsenal, as Robin Van Persie will be landing in Milan with the squad. The Dutchman has been making steady progress and his long awaited arrival is a boost for the Gunners.
On the weekend Arsenal continued their poor run of form, after just drawing against Aston Villa. A late strike by Bendtner ensured Arsenal stayed on top of the Premier League. Without a win in 4 games, Arsenal’s bad patch could not have come at a worse time. The United defeat two weeks ago, has affected the teams momentum, more than others had anticipated. AC Milan maintained their inconsistent form as they drew 1-1 with Lazio. With 5 draws in there last 6, the Italians will put there focus on winning the CL, as they struggle to capture 4th spot in Serie A.
With only a day left, all focus will be on how Arsenal can overcome the Italians. Will the players be able to repeat the same ferocious pace, they showed at the Emirates or will they crumble under the crowd, like Man Utd did last season. Milan could not possibly play as bad as they did in England. Their attacking players were non-existent and had to thank Arsenal’s profligacy in front of goal, and superb defending by their defenders to hold on for the draw. With an 80,000 crowd behind them, there will certainly be a big improvement from the Milan players. Can Arsenal do it? There’s only one way to find out. Bring on Tuesday.