The rumours of such an arrangement between Bobby and the Spanish club started last week, in the Spanish press. And we all know what they are like, so it didn't seem worth commenting on.

But now that Villareal are confirmed as our opponents in the Champs League semi-final, such speculation was (and, let's face it, still is) bound to intensify in the two week run up to the first leg, at Highbury on 19th April. So it's only proper that he does what he can to minimise such silliness.

Bobby's agent stated last week that the player would be making a decision in the next 2 weeks which, given the timing of the Champs League games, sounds a bit daft. And if Villareal were to be his destination then it would be beyond daft, well beyond. Pires himself pointed out to French sports daily L'Equipe that the Villareal speculation is no more worth listening to than any other...

"The Italian press say I am going to Roma or to Fiorentina, The Scottish press say I'm going to Glasgow Rangers. I am supposed to be going everywhere, but the truth is I have still not taken a decision."

"It makes me laugh. I will make the decision but it is also nice to be watched by other clubs."

Talks are on hold with Arsenal, who have made an offer of a one year contract, in line with their policy for over 30 year olds and in line with the way Dennis Bergkamp has been handled for the last few seasons.

It would be quite understandable if Bobby decided to move on, whether for a final big payday or for regular football. But our feeling is that he could attract far bigger clubs than Villareal. While he had a poor start to the season, Bobby form recently has, along with the rest of the squad, been superb. There are many factors that add up to Arsenal's recent run of form:
the central defensive partnership of Kolo Toure and Philippe Senderos growing in stature;
the emergence of 3rd and 7th choice fullbacks who've made Real Madrid and Juventus wingers look ordinary; the continued development of Cesc Fabregas as a world class attacking midfielder and the settling-in of Alexander Hleb, which have enabled Gilberto to go back to what he does best in a more defensively minded role....

But also you have to look at the fact that Pires and Freddie Ljungberg, for so many years the keys to our attacking strength, have returned to form. Pires in his last few games has arguably been better than ever, working hard, tackling back, playing for the team. We'll be lucky if he decides to stay, in the knowledge that he won't be playing all the time.

Incidentally, our Arsenal vs Villareal page is now online. If anyone has any good links or info to add to it, please send it in.