Arsenal post: feel free to skip!

Well, interesting game, shame to lose, but it's not a surprise. It's difficult to go with a weakened team, nothing (or very little) to play for, against a team that raises its game against big teams, and who would be especially motivated against us.

It would probably be unfair to criticize any individual players, but what you can say at the very least is that few of them that came in did their cause much good. With the possible exception of Eduardo, they all had mediocre games.

Traore never ever got forward or did anything (though he was against Alves); Senderos was poor, almost as poor as his reputation (which I've felt is undeserved but not on today's evidence!); Hoyte was rightfully substituted; Gilberto was sluggish, laid Seville's first goal on a plate; Denilson was just okay.

As for Bendtner, I have to admit to having it in for him a little bit. He's a popular alternative among forum denizens who think Adebayor isn't good enough. I think those people are crazy. Bendtner did some good things in the box, and he has qualities Adebayor doesn't have.

But the latter would never give the ball away on his halfway line like Bendtner did three times in the second half. It really put us under pressure, whereas Adebayor keeps possession as well as anyone in the league.

Anyway, I'm not bothered about this match at all. I would have liked to see individuals performing better, but it's good experience for all involved. Let's hope Fabregas isn't too badly injured and move on to the Villa match!