Ipswich v Arsenal preview

Arsenal visit Portman Road for the first leg of their Carling Cup semi-final as Ipswich look to cause an upset.

The Gunners are firm favourites to progress to the Wembley showpiece after an impressive run through the competition so far.
They have overcome Tottenham, Newcastle and Wigan to reach the last four, with Arsene Wenger noticeably selecting more experienced players alongside the youngsters he has traditionally kept faith with in previous years.

Ignasi Miquel on securing a regular place and a possible loan move

Having sold Håvard Nordtveit to Borussia Mönchengladbach during the January transfer window, many believe the next big thing for Arsenal in the defensive department is 18-year old Ignasi Miquel.
Speaking to Arsenal TV Online, the youngster believes he is now a much better player when compared to when he joined the Gunners two years ago adding how he is grateful to the North London Club for giving him this opportunity. The Catalan believes he is to keep working hard hoping to break in the regular team although he is fully aware that he is to be patient.
On a possible loan move to gain experience, Miquel explained joining a Championship side in England could be a wise decision as maybe the Premier League is not the ideal league to start in for someone who just came through the reserves team.
Asked about setting targets, the centre back concluded by saying how he set none as although it would be nice to feature for the senior team and having his own shirt with his name, what is important at this stage of his career is to work hard and let the managers decide when he is mature and good enough to make the step forward.
On his game and future, Miquel said:

I improved technically. If I compare myself with two years ago I improved so much, I’m so happy with that and happy that Arsenal gave me the chance.
I have to keep working every day and one day I’m going to get better and better and maybe break in the first team. I’d like to play [in the Carling Cup] but I know Arsenal want to win it this year because the big players are playing [in it] but I’m not worried as I just want to keep improving.
And if I can’t make it here I try to go on loan and show that I’m good enough to play for Championship. Maybe not the Premier League because it’s a bit tight to start with but then show that I can play when I come back. Of course if I get the chance here now I’m going to show that I’m good enough to be here.
No, [I didn't t really set any targets]. Of course I think that this year I want to play, to have my shirt with my name but I think right now it should be work and work. [The managers] know that when you’re working hard and playing well you’re ready for the first team. I want to play right now but I know they know more than me where I am and what my chances are.

Ryo Miyaichi: I can penetrate defenses in the English Premier League

Arsenal’s new winger Ryo Miyaichi believes he has the right qualities to be an important asset for the Gunners as he is not scared of starting his career in the English Premier League.
Speaking to Kyodo News, the 18-year old is determined to secure a regular place in Arsene Wenger’s regular eleven as he explained how he has the ability to penetrate defenses in England. Asked about comparisons with the likes of Thierry Henry and Cristiano Ronaldo, the youngster explained he is “nowhere near” the talent of such big names but how one day he hopes to be as important in football as they are.

Wenger may sign defender

Arsene Wenger admits he may have to dip into the transfer market depending on the severity of Arsenal defender Sebastien Squillaci's injury.

Squillaci suffered a hamstring injury during Saturday's FA Cup third round draw with Leeds United and is waiting to learn the extent of the damage.
The Frenchman joins Thomas Vermaelen on the sidelines and a lengthy spell out of action for Squillaci could force Wenger's hand.

Wenger backs Arshavin

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has backed Andrey Arshavin to recapture his best form for the Gunners.

The Russian international was a starter for the first time in three games in the FA Cup on Saturday as Championship side Leeds earned a battling draw.
Arshavin, along with Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner, was jeered by sections of the Emirates crowd at times during the game.

Stoke make Wenger complaint

Stoke have lodged a formal complaint to the FA and Premier League over Arsene Wenger's criticism of Ryan Shawcross.

Potters boss Tony Pulis was left fuming after Wenger accused Stoke defender Shawcross of turning football into rugby after Stoke's defeat to Tottenham's last weekend.
Pulis revealed Stoke have written an official letter of complaint to the Gunners and also sent copies to the Premier League and the Football Association.

Wenger hails Arsenal resilience

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes his side's win at Blackburn shows the Gunners have the stomach to mount a Premier League title challenge.

"If you have ambition in this league you have got to win at Blackburn," said Wenger after the 2-1 victory.
"If you fail to win at Blackburn - if you go to clubs like that and don't win - your ambition will not be respected by the other teams.