In the black, but feeling blue

JUST 24 hours after announcing record profits, Arsenal’s shock home defeat against West Bromwich Albion in a match that highlighted weaknesses in Arsene Wenger’s squad has surely re-ignited arguments over the Frenchman’s spending policy.

A woeful performance from goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, still first choice in north London despite a heavily-reported but ultimately fruitless search to find a replacement for him this summer, combined with uncertain defending from cut-price arrivals Laurent Koscielny and Sebastien Squillaci left Arsenal’s title challenge wobbling. And suddenly all the money in the world doesn’t seem so relevant.

Considering the financial mess at both Anfield and Old Trafford where crippling debts and foreign owners have caused consternation, Arsenal’s announcement of a £61m (€71.5m) post-tax profit ahead of Saturday’s match – almost double the figure from 2009 – should have been cause for celebration. But Arsenal supporters are traditional in their views and many believe an annual profit at the end of another trophy-less season is nothing more than proof their club has been too reluctant to invest in fresh talent.