Special Dispensation

No doubt Arsene Wenger has taken the opportunity to express his gratitude to Raymond Domanech for the special consideration given to Arsenal players. Despite the fact that France were playing an inconsequential friendly against Greece, Domanech made sure that both Thierry Henry and William Gallas got the full 90 minutes – which will no doubt stand them in good stead when they face Newcastle United just a few days later.

Unfortunately, the likes of Louis Saha, Patrice Evra, Nicolas Anelka and Claude Makelele were not accorded such preferential treatment. Sir Alex, Big Sam and the Special One must be hopping mad.