Diaby rues 'silly' own goal
September 9th 2009 09:57
Abou Diaby is keen to forget the 'silly mistake' that sent Arsenal crashing to defeat at Manchester United.
The Gunners looked on course for an impressive victory over the reigning Barclays Premier League champions when Andrey Arshavin's long-range strike handed them a 1-0 interval lead at Old Trafford on Saturday.
But after the break Wayne Rooney netted from the penalty spot before an own goal from Diaby gave United a 2-1 victory.
The French midfielder was unchallenged when he headed a Ryan Giggs free-kick past goalkeeper Manuel Almunia.
wound up
Diaby said: "I have to forget it. I made a silly mistake and it's difficult to explain what happened.
"The goalkeeper called out to me to leave the ball, but it's all my fault.
"Even when I look back at the images I ask myself what happened, and I tell myself that it's just not possible.
"I was so wound up and soon after I rushed my shot because I didn't apply myself properly."
Diaby, though, is hopeful this could turn out to be a key season in his career at Arsenal, having struggled for regular fitness and form in the past.
He added: "It could be the right year for Arsenal.
"I hope to play in a more central position. I prefer our 4-3-3 system as I don't play in a wide role."
Manager Arsene Wenger recently went on record as saying that Diaby can become a 'powerhouse' in midfield if he can steer clear of injury.
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The Gunners looked on course for an impressive victory over the reigning Barclays Premier League champions when Andrey Arshavin's long-range strike handed them a 1-0 interval lead at Old Trafford on Saturday.
But after the break Wayne Rooney netted from the penalty spot before an own goal from Diaby gave United a 2-1 victory.
The French midfielder was unchallenged when he headed a Ryan Giggs free-kick past goalkeeper Manuel Almunia.
wound up
Diaby said: "I have to forget it. I made a silly mistake and it's difficult to explain what happened.
"The goalkeeper called out to me to leave the ball, but it's all my fault.
"Even when I look back at the images I ask myself what happened, and I tell myself that it's just not possible.
"I was so wound up and soon after I rushed my shot because I didn't apply myself properly."
Diaby, though, is hopeful this could turn out to be a key season in his career at Arsenal, having struggled for regular fitness and form in the past.
He added: "It could be the right year for Arsenal.
"I hope to play in a more central position. I prefer our 4-3-3 system as I don't play in a wide role."
Manager Arsene Wenger recently went on record as saying that Diaby can become a 'powerhouse' in midfield if he can steer clear of injury.
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