If you've got a transfer pot of £70 million then it's maybe a fairly straight forward choice, but when it's (allegedly) only £25 million and there's probably other more pressing replacements required, maybe it's not so clear. Anyways, when Traore came on yesterday he looked like left midfield was his position and the fact he made the goal just added to that impression. In an ideal world I think most Gooners would be looking for ready-made players rather than yet another player seemingly played out of position. Truth is though, some of these out of position players have turned out really quite well so who's to say Traore isn't one of them. At least we wouldn't have to play Diaby there any more.

There's endless discussion about what and who we need, but I have the sneaking feeling that Le Prof may once again be thinking of what he can do with what he has rather than buying in. For instance, is it just my impression or has Denilson bulked out somewhat? He used to look tiny compared with just about everyone except Theo, but he doesn't now. Actually a lot of the 'boys' seem to have done the same, so I'm guessing we could expect more combativeness from them in the future, which is why I wonder just how many players will come in.

We still need someone to sort out the defence though, either on or off the pitch, but preferably both. The number of free headers we allow is just frightening for a club whose recent history is built on a they shall not pass mentality. Come back Big Tony soon as.

Everyone expects the Flamster to go, and everyone thinks he will be a big miss. Well maybe, but that's what they said about Thierry. What we have seen is that if a big player leaves, it allows other players to thrive. So yes Flamini has been a big player for us and has undoubtedly helped Cesc be the player he has been this season. But let's not forget what his situation was at the end of last season, who's to say that there isn't another player in the same situation just waiting his chance?

One thing that could become a concern is how much Cesc gets hyped and whether that could create a situation similar to Henry in that other players always want to find him rather than play their own game. Not Cesc's fault, he is an outstanding talent with a great attitude, but I thought Denilson played better yesterday, whether that was because Cesc wasn't there or Gilberto was, wasn't clear.

Praise where it's due, I haven't been convinced by Bendtner, but his goal and a couple of other touches, particularly his finding Gilberto in the penalty area suggest he may be developing quicker than I thought. I also hadn't realised his goals per game ratio was quite as good. It's nice when players look like they may prove you wrong. And there was a cosy love-in with all the players when he scored so everyone's friends again.

Can't go without mentioning Mad Jens. Firmly installed as an Arsenal legend, albeit sometimes for entirely the wrong reasons if you have a Corinthian view of sport. If his low point was the CL final, then his high point was being the goalie in the Unbeatables season. Or the Teletubbies act with Dogbreath, depending on your outlook. Either way I liked him and he was a breath of fresh air and let's not forget a damn fine goalie on his day.