Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny admits that an opportunity to join reigning European champions FC Barcelona at a later stage of his career will be too tempting to turn down.

The 21-year old Szczesny rose to prominence for the Gunners when Polish compatriot Lukasz Fabianski was sidelined by a shoulder injury in the middle of last season.

Not many players leave Arsène Wenger's Arsenal and thrive.

Look at Alex Hleb.

The ‘new George Best' sold his soul for a Mr Whippy with extra sprinkles and quickly went from Barcelona to the heady heights of Birmingham FC.

Now, still owned by Barca but not wanted by anyone, he floats in the footballing ether, dribbling in mazy circles to nowhere and declining clear shooting opportunities to his heart's content.

Second place, eh? Righteous.

Isn't this just like Chelsea?

Send us all into the blue funk following another listless exit from Champions League. Then, you know, go out and make things interesting real interesting by climbing into second place in the league.

"But Ancelotti is a cool dude, has been around the block a few times, has massive experience."

No it's not a misspelling, but I will take the opportunity to wish all Arsenal supporters everywhere a Very Happy New Year. And to all those of you who Yearn for silverware and titles, I offer these words of comfort.......

The season is half over. We've done well; we're 2 points off the top of the table in 3rd place.