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Anorak News | In The Dock

In The Dock

by | 25th, September 2003

‘THE Guardian’s back page reads like a module at maths GCSE. The case of Arsenal has thrown up so many numbers that you need a calculator and help from an adult to work things out.

‘What, me?’

Helpfully the paper adopts the mantle of educator, saying how the Gunners have been slapped with an unprecedented 12 charges following Ruud van Nistelrooy’s histrionics at Old Trafford last weekend.

And we have distilled things still further and bring you news that Arsenal’s right back Lauren should be free to play once more on April 17 2009.

The paper lists the six players in red and white who are up before the FA’s beak in a series of mocked-up prison mugshots. How proud Tony Adams would have been!

But while Manchester United and Chelsea rub their hands in glee, and that irritating Dutchman pats himself on the back (just as so many Arsenal players did on Sunday), the Times sees some football being played.

Last night Michael Owen became Liverpool’s record goalscorer in European competitions, striking his 21st goal in his side’s 1-1 draw with Uefa Cup challengers Olimpija Ljubjana.

Given that Liverpool have such an enviable record in European competition and so many great players have worn the red shirt, Owen’s achievement is remarkable.

Is he really better than the men who have gone before, like Ian Rush and Roger Hunt? Or did he just start younger, play more matches and win more penalties?

Meanwhile we bring some Chelsea news, courtesy of the Telegraph property section.

Roman Abramovich, the billionaire Chelsea owner, has sold a big stake in a Russian oil company for many millions, so relinquishing some of his interests in his native land and setting up a move to Britain.

The question as to where he will live can best be viewed from the air, where we have spotted a compact and bijou green space halfway down the Fulham Road in trendy SW3.

And while Chelsea prepare to play in Roman’s back garden, or some other new location, Spurs march back to greatness.

Last night the Lilywhites went to Coventry and thrashed the Sky Blues by three goals to two. David Pleat, the club’s caretaker boss is a hero.

The return of the old kerb crawler is sure to enliven Tottenham. Until the big lads from down the Seven Sisters Road come and beat them up…’



Posted: 25th, September 2003 | In: Back pages Comment | TrackBack | Permalink