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Player of the Week: Andy Linighan

Player of the Week: Andy Linighan

When Arsenal fans talk about cult heroes, Andy Linighan’s name will always be remembered with affection. The tough central defender may not have been the most glamorous player of his era, but he delivered one of the most iconic moments in Arsenal history.

Linighan joined Arsenal from Norwich City in July 1990 for a reported £1.2 million. During his seven years at Highbury, he made 156 appearances and scored eight goals for the club.

Although often competing with legendary defenders such as Tony Adams, Steve Bould and later Martin Keown, Linighan proved to be a reliable and fearless presence whenever called upon. He was part of Arsenal’s 1990–91 First Division title-winning squad, making 10 league appearances during that campaign.

His defining moment came on 20 May 1993 in the FA Cup Final replay against Sheffield Wednesday at Wembley. With the match tied 1-1 deep into extra time, Linighan — playing with a broken nose after a collision earlier in the game — rose to head home the winning goal in the 119th minute. The dramatic strike secured Arsenal’s FA Cup triumph and prevented the first FA Cup Final penalty shootout in history.

That unforgettable goal completed a historic domestic cup double for George Graham’s side, who had already won the League Cup earlier that season. Linighan also helped Arsenal lift the 1994 European Cup Winners’ Cup, adding another major honour to his career.

In league competition, Linighan made 118 Football League appearances for Arsenal and scored five league goals. Despite never being considered a superstar, his bravery, professionalism and knack for delivering in big moments made him a fan favourite.

More than three decades later, Arsenal supporters still remember the image of Linighan bandaged up and powering home that famous header at Wembley, proof that heroes are often made in a single moment.

u/jimmy2020p — 3 days ago

Did we over-celebate?

Because I just went on YT to see Man Utd celebrating like crazy after they beat Barcelona in the 2008 semi.

Rooney's comment were totally disingenuous and stunk of him not liking Arsenal. Pleased Wrighty called him out.

u/jimmy2020p — 8 days ago

This week’s spotlight goes to — a player whose influence goes way beyond what most fans remember.

Eastham joined Arsenal in 1960 following his landmark dispute with Newcastle United — a case that helped change the transfer system and gave players more control over their careers.

On the pitch, Eastham was smart player. Operating as an inside forward, he was known as “the master of the through-ball” — the kind of player who made everything look simple while quietly running the game. He wasn’t about flair for the sake of it; it was intelligence, timing, and precision.

Arsenal career:

Years: 1960–1966

Appearances: 223

Goals: 41

Club captain: 1963–1966

He captained the side during a transitional period for the club and was one of the few bright sparks in an otherwise inconsistent era.

Eastham left in 1966 for Stoke City, meaning he just missed out on Arsenal’s success at the end of the decade.

He might not get mentioned alongside the usual legends, but Eastham is a huge part of Arsenal history — both on and off the pitch.

u/jimmy2020p — 11 days ago
▲ 15 r/GunnersHub+1 crossposts

On 20 March 1976, Arsenal produced one of their most dominant performances of the decade, thrashing West Ham United 6–1. It was one of those days where everything clicked—fast attacking play, sharp movement, and clinical finishing.

Brian Kidd was the star of the show, scoring a hat-trick and leading the line brilliantly. His finishing and positioning proved too much for the West Ham defence.

Arsenal’s attack was relentless throughout, with strong support from the rest of the side helping create chance after chance and keeping the pressure on all game.

A standout performance from a team that could be devastating on its day.

u/jimmy2020p — 11 days ago