Talisman

Arsene Wenger loves to speak about the "spirit" of his Arsenal Gunners. Most of the time that kind of talk follows a defeat or gritty "non-Arsenal" like performance that they managed to pull out a last second win. For all of Wenger's rhetoric, the 2009-2010 version of Wenger's Wonder Boys have actually shown that spirit. If nowhere else it was on display versus Barcelona last Wednesday night in London. Yes, Arsenal were outplayed for much of the game, about 60 minutes to be exact, but Barca let Arsenal play the last thirty and were tied for their trouble. Now, let's not get crazy and say the tie is in danger for the Spanish side, as Messi and Co. will easily advance with a result in the return to the Camp Nou. However, for Arsenal fans it was an important moment when Cesc, the new Gunner talisman, put away the Puyol penalty to equalize the affair. Arsenal served notice that they have matured and are ready to challenge with a key victory or two next season trophies may finally be coming back to the Red side of North London. Yes, an 0-4 record versus Chelski and ManUre is a dark cloud but both of those sides are aging much faster than Arsenal. Chelsea will still have Abramovich's money to spend but ManUre are in a little more of a worrisome state financially. Time will tell of both of those club's balance sheets. As time will tell if Wenger finally spends some of the bright financial news coming out of the Emirates. (Arsenal's stadium name and front office and board headquarters) Wenger has shown his worth at spotting talent and buying right, of that there is no argument. Does he have the power is the question. By power I mean both approval from the board of directors and "will power" to pull off moves in the transfer market. To make a talisman of Cesc's ability properly work, you need the players to surround that man with talent and yes, the willingness to believe in Wenger's "Team Spirit". Peace.