England's Arsenal FC have torn up the English Premier League table this season, leading Manchester United by two points at post time. Many expected the 'Gunners' to fall back to the pack this season, with star striker Thierry Henry making a big money move to Spain's FC Barcelona.
Instead, the young squad have pulled together and surprised many pundits with their cohesion and exciting play.
With the 2008 African Cup of Nations a mere 17 days away, many English clubs are feeling the pain of their African players leaving to represent their countries, least of all Arsenal, who have lost 3 main components.
Still, Arsenal captain William Gallas maintains his squad have enough strength in depth to cover the loss of Kolo Toure and others during the Cup of Nations and sees no reason why the club have to spend big during the transfer window.
The Gunners consolidated their lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 win over West Ham at the Emirates Stadium on New Year's Day.
It was the last league match before centre-back Toure, winger Emmanuel Eboue and utility man Alex Song head off to Ghana next week with their respective nations for what could be more than a month away.
"I don't really expect us to sign anyone. I think everything is fine," the Arsenal captain said.
"Perhaps if one player does leave then we have to buy, but if that is not the case then I think everything is okay as we are."
Gallas added: "Kolo is very important for the squad because he is very strong. He has good qualities and my relationship with him has been very good.
"But we have good players in the squad and someone else will be able to play.
"If you play for Arsenal you are very good and I hope my relationship with them will be good too.
"We will miss Kolo, but I can only say how much after a few weeks."
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