Arsene Wenger has cut an isolated figure at times during this pre-season. Player discontent and frustration at the clubs financial inability to compete over transfers in has left the maestro looking forlorn.

This all seemed to change last Friday when he finally admitted that Ashley Cole was free to leave Arsenal Football Club should a suitable offer arrive. That it hasn't yet, says more about Cole and his suitors Chelsea than it does about Arsenal. I have heard the rumours and read the forums and if Cole is hanging on to trigger a loyalty clause in his contract before departing in January then he is even more despicable than I thought...

Once Wenger had announced his desire for Cole to leave he seemed to purk up! Even the 1-1 draw at home to Aston Villa didnt dampen his wit and he gave a good press conference, focusing on the many positives (including Theo).

His pre-Champions League press conference where he revealed his efforts to sign William Gallas were top class! In mentioning that we have to agree a fee with Chelsea before personal terms can be discussed, the gaffer highlighted the difference in class between the two clubs and the way they do business. Cole of course having been caught agreeing terms with the Champions before Arsenal even knew he wanted away.

But Wenger also hinted that more players could be on their way in. And I hope he meant it. Gunners fans have got used to the closed season being about players leaving and wanting to leave and are already dreading clubs coming in for Henry and Fabregas in 2007!!

If a couple of experienced world class players are coming in to help this youthful squad then the past few weeks will be forgotten!

On to tonights match and Tomas Rosicky is the main absence from the squad with injury. Apart from that (and the addition of Song and Alaidiere on the bench) it is the same squad that drew with Villa on Saturday.

Some say Theo may get a start  ... We shall see!

Come on you reds!

JimmytheCuckoo