Auf wiedersehen Jens, Arsenal win

By: travis | May 4th, 2008

With the news of Flamini leaving now coming from the foremost news source, Arsenal took care of business in a particular unconvincing fashion. It was an interesting game more than it entertained, with the only goal coming from a powerful header from Dane Nicklas Bendtner. That brings his tally to nine on the season, a decent showing from him. Wenger spoke of Bendtner’s improvement:

“Bendtner? Fantastic. I think if you look at Bendtner on the August 1 and Bendtner on the May 1 there is a massive difference. He has become a good player, and if you look at the chances he has created, in the time he plays, and the times he has scored, especially the goal he scored today.”

It will be interesting to see what kind of role Bendtner plays going forward. He seems a bit nervy on the ball at times, but his finishing in the air has been solid. He’ll probably start again next weekend against Sunderland. Wouldn’t be surprised to see him score again as well.

Fair play by Wenger to put in Lehmann for a farewell appearance. While definitely a talented keeper, Jens seemed to lose himself when he lost his spot earlier this season. But Wenger seemed to always support him, although he had a few remarks on this apperance:

“It was a farewell, yes. I wanted him to say goodbye to the fans and to show him that we respect him for what he has done for us. He was a 100 per-cent professional, not always an easy character but you take that if the guys is committed every day.”

Wenger also touches on the future of Gilberto, expressing his desire for the Brazilian to stay. With Flamini on his way out, the need to keep Gilberto is massive. He could play an important role yet. A midfield of Denilson and Cesc may be talented, but leaves the team younger than before. Only one game to go, and second place may still be within reach. Probably not though.