Having started the season brightly, it may seem premature to suggest that Arsenal are already out of the title race, but some fans would certainly argue the side are trying to win the league with only ten players.
Although this is an obvious exaggeration, many Gooners will feel the decision not to sign a goalkeeper has effectively condemned Arsenal to yet another barren season at the Emirates.
Despite Manuel Almunia putting in a good performance in the recent tie at Blackburn, few would suggest the Spaniard can perform at the highest level consistently enough to wear the shirt that legends such as Bob Wilson and David Seaman once pulled on.
Although Arsenal will probably continue to their ruthlessness in front of goal, they will need to show a level of potency they have failed to achieve over the past few seasons if they are to be successful in overcoming the inadequacies of their goalkeeper. Anyone who places a bet on football games will be aware of Almunia's habit of dropping a costly clanger.
With Wenger having recently signed a contract extension at the club showing that Arsenal have full faith in his ability, it may be the case that Arsenal fans may not have the same level of patience that allows the Arsenal boss to continue to endure a distinct lack of success. I don't think anyone would make them their FA Cup betting prediction this season.
Should success fail to arrive at the Emirates, pundits may well pinpoint Wenger's stubborn refusal to accept his squad's limitations as the straw that broke the camel's back and caused Arsenal fans finally to reject the mantra that Wenger's early success generated: "In Arsene we trust".
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