Christian Nade got past Toure to get the only goal as Sheffield ended 2006 with a shock victory over us. I can't believe how bad we played, that was probably the worst Arsenal performance this year. Our midfield was clearly lacking presence and when Fabregas did finally come on, it was too little too late.

Adabayor and Henry out injured left Julio Baptista and Aliadiere to start and Aliadiere was clearly the better of the two. Julio Baptista was given the start he has demanded but couldn't put in a performance to justify his inclusion at all. He doesn't seem to be fitting in well, but I suppose we have to give him time to get used to the physical side of the English game. Given his size he should be giving striking fear into their defenders but instead he seems to be shying away and looking to the referee for decisions.

Given that January is nearly upon us, I think we do need to buy, regardless of what Arsene has said publicly. Our current injuries have shown the lack of depth in our overall squad, especially in midfield and attack.