(Sheps – Dudu is one of the standard nicknames for a Lusophone man named Eduardo. Much like Kaká, it’s accented on the *second* syllable.)

Just hack ‘em down, and that will stop ‘em.

I don’t think Taylor deserves a life ban, and Wenger was understandably upset. Any other coach would have been just as indignant. I do think Arsene was correct in the literal sense of his first statement “He should never play again.” Taylor shouldn’t, at least at the top level, because that was just hands down, stupid, unskilled tackling. That may fly on the Sunday League pub team, but when you’re in the top flight you need to show a bit of class.

Also, the English commentating and media surrounding the match was pretty apathetic to the fact that a bright young player’s future may be RUINED. It was shameful, that.

But seriously, Martin Taylor never to play football again? It really is not that bad. The injury of course is, but that doesn’t mean the tackle was as well – Eduardo held the ball and moved it to one side as the tackle came in. Taylor’s intention was undoubtedly to get the ball, but he was too slow. Also, 3rd minute of a game against the top four at home, of course you’re going to be a bit fired up, you want to make your first tackle count. This is the Premiership, not some fancy pancy continental fanny-a-thon. People get hurt, it’s a contact sport. It’s a red card, 3 match ban – that’s what you get for going in like that, and it’s what hundreds of other players have got for the same thing, except they didn’t cause injuries, but that shouldn’t have anything to do with it.

You’ll notice Wenger has retracted his statement saying he should never play football again. Also, you’ll notice that McLeish said Taylor was absolutely distraught at the injury he caused. I really don’t think he’s the Stephen Hunt kind of character who is just an aggressive little twat, this guy has been over enthusiastic and has made a mistake.

Also, did anyone notice Gallas showing himself up as anything but captain material? It looks like Arsenal are losing it, especially with Adebayor apparently still holding grudges against his one remaining fit strike partner – going for goal instead of squaring it which would have left Bendtner with an open goal.

As a United fan, I wish the home game against Old Trafford was next week, there’s no better time to play Arsenal – their season is hanging by a thread. Kind of like Eduardo’s foot. Ouch. I really hope he can come back from that.