Arsenal Old Boys Preview

It was interesting to read Arsene Wenger’s comments about the likelihood of English youngsters starting to come through the Arsenal youth set-up. He told yesterdays AGM In the next three or four years we will have developed the top-level domestic talent we have growing at the club."

Sunday’s trip to Reading could see the Gunners lining up against three of the lads who didn’t quite make it at Highbury. James Harper and Steve Sidwell have established themselves in the Royals midfield, and with skipper Graham Murty ruled out there could also be a place for defender John Halls. Keeper Graham Stack is likely to be confined to the bench.

Reading boss Steve Coppell doesn’t believe they will be ‘more up’ for the game as a result. He said, "If you've been brought up there for a number of years then its bound to be significant. I don't think there's any more of an edge for our players though, they are highly motivated anyway."

Sidwell is an interesting player, who has drawn praise from 'Le Boss' on more than one occasion. He seems destined for a bigger club, although I doubt he will be returning to North London, at least not in a red shirt. He is probably more valued by the Gunners faithful as a result, as he appears to lack the arrogance and ingratitude that has been apparent in some of his former colleagues.

Coppell is only too aware of the challenge facing his side at the Madejski Stadium. "They (Arsenal) are terrific. They're probably the most pleasing team around on the eye, but they're effective as well. We're relishing the prospect but are aware of their capabilities."

Freddie Ljungberg will again be missing for the Gunners, but Gael Clichy, Philippe Senderos, and Mathieu Flamini, could all feature in the squad. Wenger could also hand a second start to Theo Walcott, who grew up just down the A4 from the home of the Berkshire club.

Such is the degree of preparation these days I am confident we will not underestimate potentially difficult opposition. Goonerholic’s hard earned few bob is going on a 3-1 win, including a goal for young Theo at some stage of the contest.