Arsene Wenger started the night perched high in The Emirates chewing on a toothpick; Arsenal's fans went straight for their fingernails and ended it grateful for the relief of victory against Udinese.
Wenger was fidgety and agitated. The gallery was nervous, unsettled, unsure. And every one of these emotions was mirrored by Arsenal as they inched their way agonisingly to a one-goal advantage to take to Udine next Wednesday for the second leg of the Champions League qualifier.
Theo Walcott's early goal gave Arsenal a very acceptable result against dangerous opponents, a
1-0 win and no away goal conceded. It was also achieved with Cesc Fabregas finally back in the arms of Barcelona, Jack Wilshere injured, newly-appointed captain Robin van Persie suspended and Samir Nasri also banned and on his way to Manchester City.
And yet it was an occasion that did little to dispel the mood of restlessness currently hanging over Arsenal, an uncertainty over direction and over what lies ahead if Wenger fails to act decisively and successfully before the transfer window closes.
Italy
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