'Bullish' or 'hopeful' - or 'claiming to expect'?

The press conference held by manager Arsène Wenger in Kuala Lumpur today gives us an opportunity to examine the different spins and twists that his words are given in different media outlets. Many reporters turn commentators by accident - or on purpose - without letting on.

Wenger is 'claiming to have won the battle' over keeping Samir Nasri and 'remains hopeful Cesc Fábregas will stay', the Daily Mail reports.

'Arsene Wenger shows his rivals that he means business' is the Evening Standard's headline. That Nasri will stay is 'a major coup' and Fàbregas' move to Barcelona 'is not so certain after all'.

On the Daily Express website, Wenger 'reinstated his belief' that both players will stay, and reportedly 'sounded positive that both would be lining up for the Gunners in August'.

Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror website reports that 'Wenger claimed that he expects Fabregas and Nasri to be part of his plans for the coming campaign.'

According to the Daily Star, 'Arsene Wenger has said he is adamant that Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri will be staying at the club.'

Claiming to expect, or saying he is adamant. Peculiar wording, even with a foreigner's eyes.

The Guardian website reports that Wenger 'has reiterated his desire' to keep the players.

In the Daily Telegraph, the manager has 'expressed his confidence that Arsenal will keep both Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri this summer'.

Finally, the Press Association chose the headline 'Wenger bullish over keeping Fabregas and Nasri'.

As we can see, different wording give different impressions. Reading Simon Johnson in the Evening Standard, or browsing the PA headlines, you wouldn't doubt Arsenal's stance on any transfer bids. However, expectancy or desire to keep the players hasn't the same ring to it.

And when the Mail and the Mirror reports that Wenger is claiming success, they clearly believe that someone will contradict him. Expect these papers tomorrow to carry quotes from agents, or worse, 'understanding' that the transfers are still on.