I think all Arsenal fans will know about the apparent insolence of Alex Song a few months ago when he refused to retreat to the halfway line to allow Toure a chance at a corner. Indeed, the sense of immaturity and reserves-playing-above-their-means-ness was at it's utter peak. 

It was arrogant, it was petty and it was unacceptable. But, since then  I've noticed Song grow into the calm, level headed midfielder we missed so much when Cesc was injured. He's got a great passing range, and honestly, barring a few mistakes, he's been a pretty awesome holding midfielder. Admittedly, forgetting to mark Senna in a Champion's league quarter final is more than just a mistake you can let go of, but when you compare it to the way he's listened to criticism and stayed focused in the face of unbearable expectations, as a fan I'm willing to let it slip.

Against united, I'm sure a tough tackling workaholic like Flamini would've been much better but, the farthest he was, was in the stands. That's a fact we've all accepted and I have to say, the prospect of Alex Song guarding our defence is something I very much look forward to.

A few months ago when all hope of a title chase was lost and all Arsenal fans realised that Arsene's trump cards were Denilson, Song and Diaby, my faith in this Arsenal squad hit it's absolute lowest.

I honestly couldn't see any realistic chance of any good coming out of this season and with Gallas and Toure's meltdowns, I was certain I'd be watching the Europa League come December.

But now, end of the season, nothing but pride for the squad to play for, I have to say with the way Song and Djourou have blossomed into very calm young professionals, I have a lot of faith in this Arsenal side.

I honestly don't know if Bendtner's improved or not but the one thing I always had against him was that he's lazy and honestly, who can say that about him anymore? Start of the season I hated the sight of him, he'd just stay up and wait for the game quite like Adebayor does now, and it was tiresome to watch. It was like playing with 10 men and a guy who would't mind finishing once in a way.

Now though he's got a real bustle about him and his timing couldn't be better because Ade's lost his. The worker aching for link up and movement from last season has been replaced by a sloppy lanky oaf who's trying very hard to play the way Henry did, in Kanu's body.

And then there's Denilson who has honestly not impressed anyone this year. But fuck it. He's 19 and he's worked harder than anyone all season long in a system clearly not able to accomodate his own growth, albeit due to injuries. Of all the players in the team I'd say he deserves the most credit this season.

Sure we need an addition here and there, central defence maybe, but for me, the first choice  midfield today would be Arshavin, Nasri, Fabregas, Theo and Song. Anything around this bunch and I'm sorry but no team should expect a clean sheet.