It is indeed a hectic week by all means. The Malaysia Cup has reached the semi-finals with my local team, Terengganu had to endure a penalty shoot-out against Perlis before coming out on top with a 7-6 win. Our young goalkeeper, Mohamad Sharbini Allawee stopped three penalties and scored the winning one himself.

The football season is coming to its end in Malaysia, many Malaysians are relishing the coming of the Barclays Premier League new season. Given the fact that the level is lower than the one that is broadcasted every week from England, but there are those who still go to matches to get the 'live' football atmosphere, something similar to those who follow teams from League 1 and 2 and the Conference.

Arsenal has completed its pre-season programme with fans looking forward to an improved results from last season. But before that, there is the short trip to Eschende to meet Steve McClaren's FC Twente in order to qualify to the lucrative Champions' League.

The current immediate concern of many Arsenal fans is the thin layer of midfielders at our disposal with the departure of Matt Flamini, Alex Hleb and Gilberto Silva. Abou Diaby who was touted as the next Patrick Vieira due to the physical similarities seems to be spending more time on the treatment table and when given the chance on the pitch, failed to grab the opportunity to really establish himself.

Thus, the match in the Netherlands would probably see Cesc Fabregas and Denilson being partnered together. Theo Walcott and Samir Nasri (if he overcomes his injury) would probably provide the thrust from the wings. If the Frenchman does not make it we would probably see Manu Eboue operating on the right though I think Carlos Vela, Jack Wilshere or Armand Traore could be deployed there.

One good thing coming from the Armsterdam Tournament was the performance of Lukasz Fabianski between the sticks. He commanded the box well against Sevilla with several good takes when dealing with crosses. He also reacted well on one to one situations and showed good agility when required. A stiff competition to Manuel Almunia is foreseen here.

With Arsene Wenger prefers to do his dealings behind closed doors it is a bit difficult to guess who are joining the ranks though the addition of Xabi Alonso certainly would see my optimism rises a bit. Hopefully Arsene will find the time soon.

Astro has been a good satellite TV provider with the match at Huddersfield being telecast 'live' here in Malaysia. It is always good to see a good comeback after falling behind. The youngsters certainly showed plenty of character with the winner by Nacer Barazite indicated that the boy is progressing well.

Another good comeback was at the Amsterdam ArenA against host Ajax. Who would have predicted the two Manus would combine so well to score the first one with Eboue finding the head of Adebayor. The Togolese is trying his best to win back the heart of Arsenal supporters and his determination opened the chance for Nicklas Bendtner to equalise.

Then a good one-two with Denilson led to the winner by Adebayor though he would have to improve his rate of conversion in order to climb the charts of legends that have donned the red and white of Arsenal in the past. During the match alone he had me tearing my hair on numerous occassions for failing to do things that are expected of an Arsenal player.

I am hoping that Fabianski will start the match on Wednesday but I believe it will be Almunia and William Gallas to partner Kolo Toure in defence. Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy will provide the support for Walcott and Nasri respectively. Fabregas and Denilson will provide the openings for Adebayor and Robin Van Persie and hopefully we will come back with one foot already in the pot.

Go Gooners!

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