We were lucky enough to be joined by world-renowned Arsenal blogger and author, Andrew Mangan, aka Arseblog

What are your thoughts on the season so far?

So so, start was very poor. It was a difficult summer for Arsenal, mismanaged. New players joining with some high-profile departures. I was happy with a good run between September and December. Lack consistency, the only consistent part of this season has been the inconsistency.

After the suspense of playoff qualification were you surprised that Arsenal qualified with ease?

Not surprised. We have a number of experienced players. Sometimes you can’t judge how things will go in the Champions League based on League form.

Through thick and thin, do you think that Arsene Wenger is the man for the job?

Arsene Wenger has been subject to significant criticism

Where we finish might have an impact on where he ends up. If it falls off really badly, maybe the ownership might be pressed into action. If there is a big push for fourth place and we fall short, he’ll probably still be in charge. It’s going to be tough to finish in the top-four.

Aims and expectations for the season?

Still in the FA Cup which is our most likely chance at a trophy. In the league, the main focus is to finish in the top four. It may seem rather cliché but it literally is one game at a time.

Are you happy with how Arsenal replaced Fabregas and Nasri?

Wilshere and Ramsey

As we’ve seen, Liverpool and Chelsea haven’t spent well. So without sounding too much like Arsene Wenger, it’s important to spend wisely. It was far more important to replace Cesc Fabregas than Nasri, his importance was overstated, we didn’t necessarily need to replace him. I really feel that Jack Wilshere could have made some strides towards filling the void left by Fabregas, had he not been injured this season. It’s easy to see the genesis of the talent is there and Wenger has given them a platform to enable great things.

Many will compare the two wingers, but how would you rate Oxlade Chamberlain vs Walcott?

Walcott tends to need the team to plays to his strengths whereas Ox looks more rounded as a player. Technique and ability. Probably end up as a centre attacking-midfielder as he has the attributes to excel there. He’s still very raw. As we saw vs. Sunderland, he struggled to have much of an impact. He still has a great deal to learn,  but as he’s only 18 it’s very promising.

Oxlade-Chamberlain and Walcott

Would you have expected that Thierry Henry would have made such a profound impact on Arsenal’s form?

Always thought the move was a good idea. Best way to deal with it, would have been to sign him and someone else. His impact was significant but now, perhaps, Arsenal may miss him. Impact from the bench was excellent. The move was obviously emotive and emotional as he’s such a legend. We’ll miss having someone like that from the bench.

Your thoughts on this week’s Round of 16 clash with AC Milan?

It will be a very difficult game. AC Milan have a rich history  in  the competition. They have some great players, but that’s what the Champions League is all about. We’ve done well in previous visits to the San Siro:  5-1 vs Inter and the 2-0 against AC Milan. No reason to be fearful, really. Ultimately, there’s Less pressure than a league game. Essentially, we’re underdogs and that’s not a bad thing. We’re a young side and that may work in our favour.

Lastly, your book: So Paddy Got Up. Tell us a bit about it.

25-26 pieces written by four Arsenal fans. In a time where things are over-analyzed, it’s about love for the club. You can get it here

A massive thank-you to Andrew, and be sure to visit his award-winning blog: Arseblog