DOH say the critics!

Every Carling Cup round brings itself a new set of dire matches played in the frost of England. But for Arsene and Arsenal it seems, it brings itself a new hero unfolding like a raw gem in the hands of a miner. The man – or boy – this time round, was Jay Simpson.

Quite comically and ironically, Jay has arrived late on the scene. Still only 19, his journey has taken the long ruote. Since joining the academy aged 11, Jay rose up the ranks steadily. Last season, Arsene sent him out on loan to Millwall for half a season. But that was all was needed to unleash a newfound potence; Jay was not only voted played of the the year by the Millwall fans, but was voted by his peers as PFA League Two player of the year.

For all the common demoniators of the Wenger mould, Jay is unique. His physical mould comes muscular tones; a typical English striker who can hold the ball up and control a cross with his chest. However, if the Arsenal academy has to prove its value, it proves it through the conversion of a player pressured by the English cut and thrust to adding the virtues of the ‘WengerBall’ vision. Furthermore, Jay showed last night agiasnt a first team Wigan defence that he has not lost his aggression when face one-on-one. To the contrary, composure prevailed and he duelly prodded a delightful through ball from the ever-omnisient Jack Wilshere.

The superlatives rolls for the others. Kieran Gibbs, in the mould of Cole, Clichy and Traore in more ways that one, ran the flanks ragged. His conversion from a winger to left back epitomises the way Wenger and his philosophy can change players careers for the better, utilising newfound strengths whilst gaining new ones.

On the issue of defence, I believe Gooners around the land have seen the future defence. Ever since the departure of Sol Campbell, the lack of presence has been felt. Despite William Gallas’ assured display agiasnt United last weekend, in the lnog term I believe he will prove little value to the imprint that Wenger will leave. Alex Song and Johan Djourou, especially the latter, were absolutely mesmiring. Yes, they had their moments, but overall, their display consisted of squeezing the bustling Wigan attackers. The likes of Zaki have proved their worth, and yet the two defenders slotted with ease.

As I reflect on the performance, it seems that the Carling Cup is fast becoming the new F.A Cup. Once upon a time, Wenger loved the F.A Cup. Perhaps he still does, but recent seasons have shown the decreasing position of value. The League Cup may be the fourth most favoured of trophies, but it is one that Wenger has yet to win. Capturing this trophy would not only complete a domestic treble, but it would be symbolic of the transformation that Wenger has undergone, stripping away ‘Boring, Boring Arsenal’.

Another issue is the camarderie of the squad. Many have highlighted (the bigatory people and arrogant) that Arsenal may lack a sense of unity due to the many cultures and nationalities in the team. Well, from personal experience, this is not a barrier, but can contrive to become a unifying factor. Before the match, Adebayor shook that hand of Jay Simpson.

He told me that when I am shooting, just make sure I hit the target, don’t concentrate too much on power

On the Arsenal website, Jay eludes to his idol, ian Wright (listen to hsi show on talkSport radio, 4-7 pm).

When I was growing up I used to watch Ian Wright and that’s what made me an Arsenal fan,” revealed Simpson. “I had posters of him on my wall.

“I met Wright once, it was quite a while ago at my first Arsenal match at Highbury. I met him in the tunnel and I was starstruck, I didn’t know what to say to him! He shook my hand and I didn’t know what to do! I was nine at the time. He’s still an Arsenal fan and he would have been happy to see the English players out there tonight.”

He sure would, and the future – yet again – seems bright. But for the short term, this was gave the Arsenal cup a half full look rather than half empty. If two weeks felt like a hammering in hell by Arsene, then a week is sure time for therapy. And it was his own doctrine that healed the wounds.