Arseblog - the arsecasts, arsenal podcasts

On this week's show the disappointing 1-1 draw with Wolves at home. We're used to bad first halves, but we got a bad second half too, and should we start to ask questions of Unai Emery for what is a consistent problem? We discuss team selection, the substitutions, riding our luck again – which includes the goal – and not for the first time this season we have an excellent performance from our goalkeeper to thank for getting something from the game. Then we have listener questions about Danny Welbeck's injury and contract, how many of today's team we think are players Emery views as long-term contributors, Torreira's shooting, Granit Xhaka and Shkodran Mustafi and we end with some positive WHOOP. 

Arsenal qualified for the knockout stages of the Europa League with a 0-0 draw against Sporting, but the main focus is on the apparently serious injury sustained by Danny Welbeck. I'm joined by Tayo Popoola to discuss the game, the injury and how it will affect the England international's future, the door it might open for another young striker, the Europa League in general and how we should approach the final two games. There are more thoughts on Welbeck's contractual situation, a little bit of waffle and more.

In this 500th episode of the podcast, I chat to Romain Molina, the author of a new book about Unai Emery. 'El Maestro' gives us a fascinating insight into the man and the manager, and Romain has spoken to Emery himself, as well as countless people who have worked with him throughout his career from his time as a player and throughout his managerial spells at Lorca Deportiva, Almeria, Valencia, Spartak Moscow, Sevilla, PSG and now Arsenal. There's also a chance for you to win a signed copy of the book, and a little trip back in time to the very first episode of the Arsecast back in October 2006.

This week we're looking at the 1-1 draw against Liverpool and a performance which was a real positive under Unai Emery. The character to come from behind, Alexandre Lacazette's brilliant goal, the growing importance and influence of Lucas Torreira and why he sets an example for his teammates, hard work from a group of players who are responding to the demands of the manager, and all the other talking points from the game itself. Then we answer questions about Rob Holding and his place in the team, the role of full back in the modern game, Reiss Nelson's form on loan, Emery's touchline passion, a European Super League and lots more.

Arsenal face Liverpool at the Emirates this weekend, in what is the biggest test for Unai Emery since the opening two game of the season. The Gunners have taken a fantastic 22 points from 24, but this is where we see if real progress is being made. Joining me, separately, to discuss are @DanielStorey85 and @Antonstotle, chatting the threat of Liverpool, how Arsenal might set up their side, player contracts, and lots more with a very minimal amount of the usual waffle.