Junichi Inamoto was, once again, the star of the show as Japan recorded their first ever win in the World Cup Finals beating Russia 1-0 in front of the biggest crowd of the competition so far, over 66,000.

Suddenly the purchase of the Japanese midfielder looks like becoming one of Wenger's many transfer-market masterstrokes.

We have to admit that Arseweb raised our eyebrows at the decision to buy Ina. Suggestions that it was a marketing move more than a footballing one were not allayed by the lack of chances given to him on the pitch last season. And although his performances for the reserves have been praised, when he's moved up to the first team he hasn't looked ready for the Premiership.

Well, maybe he's ready now.

If Wenger doesn't want to use him next season, there's no doubt that we could make a significant profit on him now if we sell him on. There are stories in Japan that Feyenoord are interested.

For the second match running Inamoto starred in a spirited Japanese performance.

As well as an outstanding performance he also scored the winning goal, in the 51st minute. This time it was an explosive finish with his right foot, after his left foot strike in the Japan's first game.

The co-hosts now are within touching distance of qualification for the second stage, with 4 points from 2 games and only Tunisia to play.

Rupe adds...
Apparently the Sunday Times today says that Inamoto has been released on a free transfer by Arsenal! I'm afraid we have no news of this, but it seems unlikely for the reasons given above. There does seem a good chance he'll leave Arsenal after the world cup, because he needs to play more if he's to fulfil the potential he's showing this week. But surely we could persuade someone to part with a few quid for him...?

This article could be taken either way. Apparently Ina spoke to Arsene Wenger on the phone minutes after the match, "I was sweating as much during that phone call as I did during the game". We're not completely sure what that says about the content of the conversation....

But he does go on to say, "Everyone watches the World Cup and this should reflect well on my future".

On his goal, Ina says "I didn't even mean to be there".