More Injury Woe For Arsenal

Premier League leaders Arsenal have lost another two players to injury at a crucial time of the season.

Abou Diaby injured his calf in Tuesday's 2-0 Champions League victory in Milan and will miss this weekend's trip to Wigan. The Frenchman, who only recently returned from a long injury picked up on international duty, is not expected to be out for too long.

Theo Walcott has also picked up a thigh injury while playing in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Colorado Rapids. The England youngster, who has been growing in stature in recent games, will also miss the Wigan match, although his recovery should also not take too long.

"From Tuesday night we lost Abou Diaby," Arsene Wenger told Arsenal TV Online. "He has got a problem on his calf. Today we also lost Theo Walcott. He played against Colorado Rapids and he got a little thigh problem."

Robin van Persie also featured in the game against the Rapids, playing 60 minutes and coming through unscathed. The injury-prone striker is not expected to start against Wigan, although he is likely to make an appearance from the bench.

African duo Kolo Toure and Alex Song could also feature against Wigan, although it appears unlikely following Wenger's comments on ATVO.

The Arsenal boss said: "Robin played an hour and he looks OK. But it looks early for him – he finished the game very tired today so I will have to analyse that. We have a little chance to get Kolo back in the squad and a little, little chance to get Song back."

In other news, Tomas Rosicky is still more than a week away from a recovery. The Czech Republic star is expected to return in 10 or 12 days. Wenger will be hoping that the 27-year-old will be available in time for the Gunners game against Chelsea on March 23.

AC Milan vs. Arsenal: Match Review

Arsenal progressed into the quarter-finals of the Champions League after knocking out holders AC Milan in their round of sixteen tie. The Gunners overcame a resilient Milan side after two late strikes sent the Rossoneri spinning out of European competition. It was Milan's first European loss at the San Siro. The two sides drew 0-0 in the first leg at the Emirates.

Milan worked hard, but the Gunners dominated for long spells of the game, with the Rossoneri looking their most dangerous on the counterattack. The game looked destined for extra-time until an incredible 25-yard strike from Cesc Fabregas hit the back of the Milan net. Arsenal wrapped up the game when Emmanuel Adebayor scored the Gunners' second in stoppage-time.

Lineups:
AC Milan: Zeljko Kalac; Paolo Maldini, Kakha Kaladze, Alessandro Nesta, Massimo Oddo; Gennaro Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo, Massimo Ambrosini, Kaka; Alexander Pato, Filippo Inzaghi

Arsenal: Manuel Almunia; Bacary Sagna, Philippe Senderos, William Gallas, Gael Clichy; Abou Diaby, Mathieu Flamini, Cesc Fabregas, Emmanuel Eboue; Alex Hleb, Emmanuel Adebayor

Arsenal started brightly, denying Milan space in midfield down by closing them down quickly. Their hard work was rewarded when a chance opened up for Alex Hleb at the edge of the penalty after seven minutes, but the Belorussian midfielder, playing as a second striker behind Emmanuel Adebayor, crashed his drive well off target.

It was Milan who almost went ahead though, when a near-post flick from Paolo Maldini was cleared off the line by Cesc Fabregas with Arsenal keeper Manuel Almunia beaten.

Abou Diaby had a chance for Arsenal after being teed up by Adebayor, but the young Frenchman's shot went just over the top-right corner of the Milan goal.

Pato should have scored for Milan in the 18th minute after a good break from Kaka. The world player of the year chipped a neat ball to his fellow Brazilian, but Pato could only direct the ball straight into the chest of Almunia from a few yards out.

As the 25 minute mark approached, Milan's dominance began to end, but not before a header from Inzaghi and a low shot from Kaka nearly forced Almunia into action.

Adebayor came close to scoring with a 12 yard-drive, but the tall Togolese striker's shot was tipped over the crossbar by Milan keeper Zeljko Kalac.

Alex Hleb was harshly cautioned for allegedly diving on the edge of the Milan penalty box, but the replays seemed to show that the 26-year-old was brought down by Alessandro Nesta.

Adebayor, who hit the crossbar in stoppage time in the first leg of this tie, once again tried to turn provider after rolling the ball to Fabregas, but the Spaniard crashed his shot off Kalac's crossbar.

AC Milan had outplayed Arsenal for the beginning period of the first half, but Arsenal were on the ascendancy, and nearly grabbed their first goal just after half-time. A cross found it's way to Philippe Senderos, but the Swiss international shot directly at Kalac from only a few yards out.

Emmanuel Eboue had a decent chance five minutes after the break, but his angled drive was blasted wide.

Almunia had had little to do in goal, but was alert enough to dive down and turn a free-kick from Andrea Pirlo around the post. The Gunners had another warning when Kaka broke down the left and almost created a goal for himself only to fire just wide of Almunia's upright.

Arsene Wenger replaced Ebou with the speedy Theo Walcott in the 70th minute. The 18-year-old had a good chance soon after coming on, but opted to cross rather than shoot from just in front of goal, wasting a good opportunity.

The game was finely balanced, with a goal for either side almost surely ensuring a win.

The moment of brilliance came from the young Cesc Fabregas who created a superb solo goal after picking up a loose ball. The midfielder sidestepped Gennaro Gattuso before unleashing a fierce 25-yard skidder into the bottom corner of the net.

The Gunners looked sure to win with Milan needing two goals to keep the Gunners out because of the away goals rule, but Emmanuel Adebayor made the victory certain in stoppage time by turning in a fine cross from Walcott.

The goal ended a superb night for Arsenal, who will take a considerable amount of confidence out of beating last year's Champions League Champions.

Arsenal vs. Aston Villa: Match Preview

Aston Villa travel to the Emirates this Saturday in order to face league leaders Arsenal in an important clash for both teams. Arsenal will be searching for a full three points to stay clear of Manchester United at the top of the table, while Villa will be looking to break into Europe by taking at least a point from the Gunners.

The Villans, who currently sit in sixth place in the Premier League, have defeated Reading and Newcastle United since losing at Fulham, and have performed admirably against the big four so far this season. A win at home against Chelsea and two draws at Liverpool and Chelsea are marred only by defeats to Manchester United and Arsenal. Mark Hughes will be hoping that his team can amend their record against the Gunners, and will feel especially confident because of the Arsenal injury list.

Arsene Wenger will be unable to choose six of his players, although Abou Diaby is expected to return to the Arsenal squad in time for the match. Kolo Toure, Eduardo, Robin van Persie, Alex Song, Tomas Rosicky, and Johan Djourou will all miss the match with injury while Emmanuel Eboue will sit out due to suspension.

Villa, on the other hand, are almost completely fit, with Olof Mellberg the only injury doubt for the game.

Arsenal will likely line up with Manuel Almunia in goal behind a back four of Bacary Sagna, Philippe Senderos, William Gallas, and Gael Clichy. The Arsenal defenders are usually quite dependable, but will face a tough test against the guile of Gareth Barry, the pace of Gabby Agbonlahor, the pinpoint crosses of Ashley young, and the height of John Carew. It would be a huge boost for the Gunners if they could keep Villa quiet on set pieces.

In the middle of the park Alex Hleb, Cesc Fabregas, and either Theo Walcott or Abou Diaby should be able to dominate the midfield with their passing skills while Mathieu Flamini disrupts the visitor's play.

Emmanuel Adebayor will start up front without Eduardo for the first time in a few matches, as the Croatian suffered from a horrible tackle against Birmingham last weekend. Theo Walcott is in contention for a spot alongside the lanky Togolese striker after his impressive showing against Birmingham, although Nicklas Bendtner also has a decent chance of starting. Villa have allowed a fair number of goals considered to those around them in the table, and Arsenal, the top goalscoring team in the league, will be looking to exploit this defensive weakness.

Despite a poor showing against Birmingham last weekend, Arsenal are clear favorites to win this match and should be able to do so even without some of their key players. I predict a 3-1 home win.

Internationals: Flamini And Diaby Injured, Walcott Scores

Arsenal midfielders Mathieu Flamini and Abou Diaby both suffered injury scares as a reserve side from France faced the Democratic Republic of Congo.

21 year-old Diaby, who has featured for France only three times, failed to start the game with a calf problem. France manager Raymond Domenech moved to to ensure that the injury was minor, though, meaning that the midfielder should be fit to rejoin the Arsenal squad on Monday as they host Blackburn at the Emirates.

"He has a small concern with the calf, I did not want to take a risk, so he remained at rest," said Domenech to allay the concerns of Arsenal fans.

Mathieu Flamini is more of a doubt, although it has been reported that the 23 year-old's ankle injury is not a serious one. Flamini has been one of the driving forces behind Arsenal's title push, and while Brazil captain Gilberto Silva is ready to step in in the case of a more serious injury, Arsene Wenger will be hoping that Flamini recovers in time to face Blackburn.

In other international news, Arsenal left-back Gael Clichy featured for his country for the first time in France's 0-0 draw with the Congo.

Theo Walcott also showed some of his promise by scoring a thunderous goal against the Republic of Ireland in a 3-0 victory for England's U21 squad. Walcott picked up the ball on the left flank before cutting inwards and releasing a right-footed rifle into the far corner of the net. He was taken off to a standing ovation five minutes before the end of the match.

Arsenal vs. Newcastle: Match Review

Arsenal emphatically defeated Kevin Keegan's Newcastle in the FA Cup Fourth Round to dim memories of an embarrassing defeat at White Hear Lane. The Gunners won 3-0 at the Emirates thanks to a second half brace from Emmanuel Adebayor and a late own goal from Nicky Butt. Arsene Wenger will be hoping that his team can repeat the victory when Newcastle travel to London to face Arsenal in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Lineups:
Arsenal: Jens Lehmann, Gael Clichy, William Gallas, Philippe Senderos, Justin Hoyte; Abou Diaby, Cesc Fabregas, Mathieu Flamini, Tomas Rosicky; Emmanuel Adebayor, Theo Walcott

Newcastle: Shay Given; Claudio Cacapa, Steven Taylor, Jose Enrique, Stephen Carr; Nicky Butt, James Milner, Charles N'Zogbia, Damien Duff; Michael Owen, Alan Smith

Arsenal started brightly, nearly snatching a fifth minute lead after a long ball from central defender Philippe Senderos. The ball fell just ahead of Cesc Fabregas who was unable to generate enough power at full stretch to beat Shay Given.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger was then forced into an early substitution as Czech Republic captain Tomas Rosicky limped off the field in the 9th minute to be replaced by Croatian striker Eduardo.

The highly offensive lineup left Arsenal susceptible to counterattacks, and Newcastle nearly grabbed the lead after a quarter of an hour when Alan Smith saw his shot cleared off the line by the head of Gael Clichy.

The French left-back was active at the other end soon after, forcing a save out of Shay Given after curling a goalbound effort from the corner of the Newcastle penalty box.

Given, who was kept busy all night, was forced into a near post save from Eduardo after a defensive error Stephen Taylor let the goal poacher into the 18 yard box.

Arsenal were beginning to pressure the Newcastle defense, with Emmanuel Adebayor heading just wide and Abou Diaby forcing an acrobatic save out of Given before half time. The Magpies managed to hold the game level at 0-0 until half time and looked a far better side under Kevin Keegan's management.

They could do nothing to stop Adebayor's first goal in the 51st minute, though. Eduardo made himself some space on the edge of the penalty box and sent a curling shot against Given's post with the keeper well beaten. Newcastle's defenders failed to clear the ball and Adebayor powered the ball into the left corner to grab Arsenal's 100th goal at the Emirates.

Newcastle were not yet beaten though, and Michael Owen thought he had won his side a penalty when the ball looked to have been flicked up onto Senderos' arm in the box. Referee Martin Atkinson waved play on though, and it was Arsenal who would once again score as the game began to open up.

Adebayor showed a huge amount of class to hold off two defenders and draw Shay Given out of goal. The Togo striker, who has already scored 16 league goals for Arsenal this season, finished brilliantly with a low shot past last man Steven Taylor.

Arsenal were already in the fifth round with a 2-0 lead, but Nicky Butt granted the Gunners a third goal when he headed into his own net after a Cesc Fabregas free-kick. The third goal was harsh, and Newcastle fans will feel that the scoreline did not accurately depict the nature of the game.

Nonetheless, Arsenal will be high on confidence going into Tuesday's important league fixture against Newcastle, and look to be getting back on track after a disappointing loss to Tottenham last week.

Tottenham vs. Arsenal: Match Review

Arsenal suffered an embarrassing defeat at the hands of arch-rivals Tottenham as the Spurs broke a 9 year winless streak against their bitter enemies in an emphatic fashion. The deserved 5-1 win was the first time in 21 matches that the Gunners lost to their North London rivals, and was enough to propel Juande Ramos' rejuvenated side into the finals of the Carling Cup where they will face the winner of tomorrow's match between Chelsea and Everton.

Jermaine Jenas opened the scoring in the third minute and an own goal from Nicklas Bendtner cemented a two goal lead for Tottenham in the 27th. Spurs came out strong in the second half, with Robbie Keane scoring in the 48th minute and Aaron Lennon putting away a fourth in the 60th. Emmanuel Adebayor pulled back a consolation goal in the 70th minute, but a stoppage time strike from Steed Malbranque capped a formidable Tottenham performance.

Lineups:
Tottenham: Radek Cerny; Lee Young-Pyo, Ledley King, Michael Dawson, Pascal Chimbonda; Aaron Lennon, Jermaine Jenas, Steed Malbranque, Teemu Tainio; Robbie Keane, Dimitar Berbatov

Arsenal: Lukasz Fabianksi; Bacary Sagna, William Gallas, Justin Hoyte, Armand Traore; Alex Hleb, Neves Denilson, Gilberto Silva, Abou Diaby; Theo Walcott, Nicklas Bendtner

Injuries to some of Arsenal's younger stars meant that the experienced William Gallas, Bacary Sagna, and Alex Hleb all featured in a cup competition which usually sports Arsene Wenger's reserves and fringe players. However, the injection of experience did nothing to stop Jermaine Jenas from powering in a shot from just outside the box after just three minutes.

Dimitar Berbatov flicked the ball into the path of Jenas who side-stepped past Justin Hoyte and found himself with enough time to take a well placed shot which went in off of Fabianski's post. The Tottenham man should have been closed down much sooner, but no credit should be taken away from the perfectly placed finish.

Nicklas Bendtner took a shot over the bar after some good work around the Tottenham box, but he found the back of his own net fifteen minutes later. A free-kick from Jermaine Jenas saw the tall Dane under pressure from Michael Dawson, and the unfortunate youngster beat his own goalie from a few yards out to double Tottenham's lead in the 27th minute.

Berbatov should have made it three for the home side only a few minutes later. A busy Jenas put the Bulgarian striker clean through on Fabianski's goal, but he could only hit the post.

Bacary Sagna nearly scored his first goal in an Arsenal shirt soon after, but his goal-bound header was brilliantly saved by the quick reflexes of Radek Cerny, keeping Tottenham up 2-0 at half-time.

The scoreline wouldn't stand for long though, as Robbie Keane nabbed a third just after the restart. An excellent pass from Aaron Lennon put the Republic of Ireland international in front of Fabianksi who could do nothing to stop Keane's half-volley from reaching the back of the net.

Arsenal could have pulled one back straight away, but an acrobatic effort from Bendtner hit the post and Fabregas, on for the injured Denilson, hit his follow-up directly to Cerny.

Steed Malbranque could have made it 4-0 to Tottenham, but he could not beat Fabianski in a one-on-one. The young Arsenal keeper got a hand to Malbranque's shot and quickly recovered the loose ball.

The Polish keeper could not hold Tottenham at bay on their next attempt though, as Lennon slotted home through Fabianski's legs after receiving a pass from Keane.

Emmanuel Adebayor and Eduardo came on for Arsenal as Keane and Berbatov came off for Tottenham, and the substitutions had an immediate impact. Adebayor scored his 16th goal of the season with 20 minutes left, giving the Gunners some hope of an unlikely comeback.

Nothing transpired in the next few minutes though, and the Tottenham got the last laugh after Malbranque put the icing on the cake by scoring a fifth in stoppage time.

Tottenham vs. Arsenal: Match Preview

Arsenal travel to White Heart Lane this Tuesday to face Tottenham in the return leg of the Carling Cup semifinals. The Gunners have faced their London rivals three times this season, resulting in two wins in the Premier League and a 1-1 draw in the first leg of this fixture.

The Gunners will be high on confidence after emphatically defeating Fulham 3-0 on the weekend. However, Arsene Wenger will be missing Kolo Toure, Alex Song, and Emmanuel Eboue on African Cup of Nations duty, while Johan Djourou and Robin van Persie are out with injuries. Philippe Senderos is also out after taking a blow to the nose against Fulham. The lack of central defenders means that Wenger will resort to risking players from the first-team in a League Cup clash.

Tottenham will be hoping they can finally overcome a 21 match winless streak against their arch-rivals, although injuries to Gareth Bale, Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Darren Bent, Younes Kaboul, Ricardo Rocha, and Anthony Gardner may restrict their chances against the Premier League leaders.

As usual, Lukasz Fabianski is likely to start in goal for the Gunners. However, Wenger is likely to play some first-teamers in the defense.

"The players who were on the bench at Fulham will play," he said. "But I will have to play one or two who played on Saturday because we are short in numbers."

With Senderos out, Wenger will have to play William Gallas in the heart of defense, alongside either Gilberto, or Justin Hoyte. If Hoyte partners Gallas in the center, then Bacary Sagna and Armand Traore are likely to complete the defensive lineup.

In the midfield Abou Diaby, Neves Denilson, Gilberto and Theo Walcott should all keep their place from the first leg of the match.

Nicklas Bendtner will probably be partnered with the on form Eduardo in van Persie's absence, and Wenger might keep Emmanuel Adebayor on the bench as an option in case the going gets tough.

It will be tough for a young Arsenal team distracted by the FA Cup, the Champions League, and the Premier League to defeat Tottenham's first-team squad, but we have the talent and the ability to come through to the finals as we did last year. I predict a 2-1 win for the Gunners, with extra time a distinct possibility.

Fulham vs. Arsenal: Team News

Arsenal travel to the Craven Cottage tomorrow to face Fulham. The reverse fixture at the Emirates, the first game of the season, ended up a 2-1 win for the Gunners after conceding an early goal to David Healy through a Jens Lehmann blunder. Arsenal will be looking to keep a clean sheet this time around, while Fulham, a team mired in the relegation zone, would be happy to take a valuable point out of the match.

Arsenal
Arsene Wenger will be without injured duo Robin van Persie and Johan Djourou. The club's three African players, Kolo Toure, Alex Song, and Emmanuel Eboue, will also miss the match on international duty at the African Cup of Nations. Lassana Diarra is also out, after transferring to Portsmouth earlier this week. However, Tomas Rosicky could return in the place of Theo Walcott after missing last week's disappointing draw against Birmingham with a virus.

Van Persie will be out for an estimated two to three weeks, and will be flying back to his native country of Holland to rehabilitate. The Dutchman has only featured in 8 Premier League games this season, but still sports an impressive 5 league goals. Djourou, who featured in the Carling Cup match against Tottenham, is also out for a few weeks.


Fulham
Recently instated Cottagers manager Roy Hodgson will be without new signing Brede Hangeland, who has not yet received clearance to feature for Fulham. Impressive full-back Paul Konchesky is also out due to suspension, but Jimmy Bullard could make his return for the Cottagers in the place of Moritz Volz.

Paul Konchesky will be sorely missed as the defender has been one of the few bright spots in a defense that has already allowed 39 goals this season. Hangeland's ineligibility could also play a key factor in the match as Hodgson is hoping that the 6 ft 5 in central defender will finally plug Fulham's leaky back-line.

Arsenal Transfer Rumors

As a big club with a big transfer kitty, Arsenal are constantly linked with talent from across the globe. During the transfer season, these rumors tend to increase in volume but decrease in validity. Nonetheless, on yet another slow news day, I will bring you some of the latest transfer "news" to circulate around the web.

A few news outlets are reporting that Torpedo Moscow defender Vyacheslav Dmitriev has signed for Arsenal. The Russian teenager should be coming to the Emirates during the Summer. A highly rated 17 year-old, Dmitriev could grow to become a feared Premier League defender. It remains to be seen if his signing is fact or fiction though, as the club's official website Arsenal.com have yet to report the news.

Arsenal have also reportedly completed a transfer for Andre "Dede" Ayew from Marseille. The 18 year-old Ghanian can play either on the left wing or up front. A reported fee of £5 million coupled once again with a lack of mention on Arsenal's official site mean that this rumor should be taken with a grain of salt.

Other possible transfer targets include Spanish U20 and Deportivo La Coruna B goalkeeper Fabricio. 23 year-old keeper Carlos Kameni, a regular for Espanyol and Cameroon, is also on the list of future Jens Lehmann replacements.

In terms of exit news, Lassana Diarra could be leaving for Portsmouth on a £5.5 million deal which would see the holding midfielder getting a sizable paycheck of £60,000/week. Seems a bit much for a player who can't even deal with not breaking into the Arsenal first team within months of his arrival.

Elsewhere, Theo Walcott could move to West Ham on loan in what would be a beneficial deal for both of the clubs involved. West Ham, a club which always seems to have injured strikers, would do better with Walcott up front than with Carleton Cole, and it would be good for the 18 year-old to get some regular playing time in a Premier League side. I doubt Arsene Wenger would let it go through, though.

Arsenal vs. Birmingham: Match Review

Barclay's English Premier League leaders Arsenal may lose their top spot to Manchester United today when the Red Devils host Newcastle United at Old Trafford. The Gunners went into the weekend two points ahead of their nearest rivals, but dropped two unlikely points at home against lowly Birmingham.

The Blues were outplayed throughout most of the 90 minutes, and Arsenal looked sure to win after taking an early lead thanks to an Emmanuel Adebayor penalty kick. However, Garry O'Connor struck back at the beginning of the second half to tie up the game. Despite constant pressure from the Gunners, Birmingham managed to hold on to take a valuable point back to St. Andrew's.

Lineups:
Arsenal: Manuel Almunia; Bacary Sagna, William Gallas, Philippe Senderos, Gael Clichy; Theo Walcott, Cesc Fabregas, Mathieu Flamini, Alex Hleb; Eduardo, Emmanuel Adebayor

Birmingham: Maik Taylor; Stephen Kelly, Franck Quedrue, Liam Ridgewell, Rafael Schmitz; Damien Johnson, Olivier Kapo, Sebastian Larsson, Fabrice Muamba; Cameron Jerome, Garry O'Connor

Birmingham city started on the wrong foot, with Eduardo heading a shot off target after just two minutes of play. A number of early Arsenal chances went unrewarded, but the tone was set for the match as Arsenal pressured Maik Taylor and the Birmingham defense.

The visitors had the best chance of the opening exchanges though, almost taking a surprise lead when Cameron Jerome latched on to a through ball only for Manuel Almunia to produce a great one-handed save at full-stretch. A goal would've been against the run of play and undeserved.

Maik Taylor made a save soon after, when Eduardo latched on to a cross from Alex Hleb. The striker, who has better heading ability than most of the Arsenal players, had looked sure to score but could only steer the ball straight into the chest of the Birmingham keeper.

Taylor could do nothing to stop Arsenal's 21st minute goal though. Stephen Kelly took Eduardo down inside the box and referee Phil Dowd pointed to the spot. Emmanuel Adebayor stpped up and placed a well-struck penalty into the bottom right corner of the net. Taylor dove the right way but the ball was out of his reach. The Northern Ireland keeper almost got his fingertips to it, but could not stop Arsenal from taking a well-deserved lead.

Birmingham had their own penalty shout turned down just a few minutes later, but Arsenal looked the better team and as the half-time came it seemed as though the Blues would be going through a damage limitation exercise.

Unfortunately for the home fans, the Blues struck a surprise equalizer out of nothing only three minutes after the restart. Former Arsenal player Sebastian Larsson took a corner which was headed goalwards by Garry O'Connor. Almunia looked ready to save the ball, but a nasty deflection off of Cesc Fabregas caught the keeper wrong-footed and he could only watch on as O'Connor raced away in celebration.

The Gunners still looked like they would go on to win the game though, with Adebayor having a shot well-blocked by Liam Ridgewell and Senderos seeing a header turned away by a great save from the busy Maik Taylor.

Frustrated Arsenal midfielder Alex Hleb had a small spat with Ridgewell, resulting in bookings for both men.

Former Birmingham loanee Nicklas Bendtner soon joined the fray as a replacement for Theo Walcott, but even the great Dane could not find a winner for the Gunners, despite consistently dominating in possession.

A fierce shot from Gael Clichy went straight into the outstretched arms of Taylor, and Bendtner shot wide following a nice move involving Hleb and Fabregas. A low strike from Mathieu Flamini forced the Birmingham keeper into action once again as Arsenal failed to regain the lead.

It was a disappointing game for Gunners fans who would never have thought their team could drop points at home to a relegation threatened side.

Arsenal vs. Tottenham: Match Review

Both final spots in this year's Carling Cup are still up for grabs, as neither Arsenal nor Tottenham grabbed a decisive victory at the Emirates today. Chelsea are up 2-1 against Everton in the other semifinal, but will still face a tough away game at Goodison park before advancing to the finals.

Tottenham looked set to win today's entertaining encounter against their greatest rivals for the first time in eight years, after going up 1-0 in the first half thanks to Jermaine Jenas. However, Theo Walcott equalized for the Gunners with just over ten minutes to go to ensure that the return leg at White Heart Lane will not be a mere formality.

Lineups:
Arsenal: Lukasz Fabianksi; Justin Hotye, Johan Djourou, Philippe Senderos, Armand Traore; Abou Diaby, Neves Denilson, Gilberto Silva, Theo Walcott; Nicklas Bendtner, Robin van Persie

Tottenham: Radek Cerny; Pascal Chimbonda, Ledley King, Michael Dawson, Lee Young-Pyo; Jermaine Jenas, Steed Malbranque, Aaron Lennon, Jamie O'Hara; Dimitar Berbatov, Robbie Keane

As we have become accustomed to seeing, Arsenal flew out of the gates, with a blistering pace being set for the match.

Nicklas Bendtner had the Gunners best chance of the first half after a superb reverse pass from fit-again Robin van Persie resulted in a cross from Justin Hoyte. The Danish striker, who had scored a header against Tottenham in the Premier League, had his strong header brilliantly saved at full-stretch by Tottenham number two Radek Cerny.

The end of the opening exchanges saw Spurs on the ascendancy, slowly taking control of the game as the inexperience of Arsenal's cup squad began to show.

The visitors should have scored around the half-hour mark when a fine saving tackle from captain Philippe Senderos (didn't think you'd ever hear that did you?) saw the ball fall to Steed Malbranque about 12 yards from goal. The midfielder had a great chance with Lukasz Fabianski out of position, but shot well wide of the keeper's right-hand post.

The Polish keeper then proved his worth, saving a well-struck 20-yared shot from Dimitar Berbatov.

It wouldn't take long for Tottenham to find the back of the net though, as a poor header from Johan Djourou eventually led to a first half lead for Juande Ramos' side. Berbatov picked up the loose ball and chipped the ball to Robbie Keane who was helped to a two on one against Fabianski by the well-timed run of Jermaine Jenas. Keane squared the ball to the midfielder, who struck past Fabianski's outstretched leg to give Tottenham an invaluable away goal.

Arsene Wenger brought on some of his more experienced players for the second half, with Sagna on for Djourou (and Hoyte switching to center back) and Eduardo on for the not-yet match-fit van Persie.

Nonetheless, Arsenal failed to find a good chance before the hour mark. The young side were wasteful in possession and found it hard to even threaten in the attacking third.

They began to find their form in the final fifteen minutes though, as Sagna's overlapping runs on the right gave the team some width and the midfielders began to find their passing rhythm.

The equalizer finally came in the 79th minute when Eduardo slipped a perfectly weighted ball through two Tottenham defenders to reach Theo Walcott. Young-Pyo Lee tried to tackle the ball away, but could only deflect it onto the 18 year-old's chest. The England U21 international slotted home past a hapless Cerny to level the game.

The goal brought Arsenal fans and players into high spirits, and the Emirates faithful began hoping for a win, with their side pressing forwards.

It was Tottenham who came closer to a second goal though, when Jermaine Defoe shot over the crossbar after an excellent cross from Aaron Lennon.

The miss was a huge let-off for an Arsenal side who undeservedly held on to go into the return leg on equal terms.

Robin van Persie To Return For Tottenham

Arsenal striker Robin van Persie is set to return for the club tomorrow after a long injury layoff. The Dutchman injured his knee on international duty in late October and has played a mere 85 minutes since then, picking up a muscular injury soon after his long awaited return.

Arsene Wenger has stated that the 24 year-old striker is back in the squad for tomorrow's Carling Cup game against Tottenham, along with Theo Walcott.

The Gunners coach also declared that both Johan Djourou and Philippe Senderos would feature in tomorrow's defense, meaning that Djourou will get his first game at Arsenal since returning from a loan spell at Birmingham. His display against Spurs could decide whether it will be Djourou or fellow Swiss defender Senderos who fills in for Kolo Toure who is away on international duty at the African Cup of Nations.

"Yes Robin van Persie is back in the squad," said Wenger. "He had a little set-back coming back from his knee injury, it was a muscle problem. But the positive side of it is that he could forget about his knee and work on his fitness."

He added: "Lukasz Fabianski will play in goal again, Theo Walcott is available while Johan Djourou and Philippe Senderos will play at the back.

"Apart from that it will be the players who played in the last [Carling Cup] game. Basically it will be a young side maybe with one or two experienced players."

Portsmouth vs. Arsenal: Match Preview

League leaders Arsenal are to take on 7th placed Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Boxing Day.

The Gunners, who sport a clean bill of health, will be looking for six points out of six in their next two matches to go into the new year as leaders, but they will have to work hard as they face quality opposition in Portsmouth and Everton.

Portsmouth are a bit short on confidence though, having begun to falter after a bright start to the season. They have gotten only four points out of four matches this month, and will be missing Noe Pamarot, Linvoy Primus, and Martin Cranie, although Sean Davis and former Arsenal defender Lauren should b back in time for the clash.

Arsenal on the other hand are high on morale, having won four games in a row since losing to Middlesbrough. The Gunners recently completed the double over rivals Tottenham Hotspur after winning their second London derby in two weeks (the other a 1-0 win over Chelsea).

Theo Walcott and Robin van Persie are the only doubts for the Gunners, although the former should recover from a virus soon enough to be fit to play at Fratton Park on Wednesday and the latter may also feature.

Manuel Almunia, who finished Saturday's game with a penalty kick save, will keep his place in goal behind Bacary Sagna, William Gallas, Kolo Toure, and Gael Clichy. These five will have their hands full with former Gunner Nwankwo Kanu and the brilliant Benjani.

In the midfield the brilliant quartet of Tomas Rosicky, Mathieu Flamini, Alex Hleb and Cesc Fabregas will try to boss around a Pompey midfield which includes the likes of Niko Kranjcar, Sulley Muntari and John Utaka. If van Persie isn't fit, they will most likely be joined by Emmanuel Eboue in a 4-5-1 with Hleb playing off of Emmanuel Adebayor.

Up front Emmanuel Adebayor may finally link up with Robin van Persie in the attack after the Dutchman missed the North London derby with a small knock. If he doesn't feature, Wenger will either play Eboue as a fifth midfielder, or play Nicklas Bendtner, who scored the match winner against Tottenham last weekend, up front with Adebayor. Eboue is the more likely option, but I would personally like to see Bendtner get a start alongside Adebayor.

Pompey are a bit short in confidence, and should fall prey to Arsene Wenger's brilliant Gunners. A nearly full-strength side should do away with Harry Redknapp's side, keeping Arsenal at the top of the table.

Wenger Sticks With Youngsters For Blackburn Clash

Arsene Wenger will continue to blood his youngsters in the Carling Cup, even against the tough opposition of Blackburn. The Arsenal coach feels that playing a young squad will not only increase the experience of Arsenal's fringe players, but also allow the Gunners' senior squad a chance to rest during period congested with fixtures.

"The Carling Cup is more of a squad game, because we decided as a squad to go for every single trophy. Many players that didn't play against Chelsea will play at Blackburn on Tuesday night," the coach told Arsenal.com

"My expectation is to qualify and go into the semi-finals, because we want to come back as well as we did last year and as well it is a good opportunity for my squad to show how strong the players who didn't play against Chelsea are.

"I believe in them, and it is good (for the fringe players) to show me 'we knock at the door and we want to play in the first team'.

"We use the competition for our players to grow up - but not only to grow up. It is also to show they are good enough to play in the Champions League and the Premier League.

"I believe as well what is fantastic is to see these players respond under the pressure of Premier League teams, and you can detect who is ready and who is not ready."

Wenger has named the following squad for Tuesday's clash:

Lukasz Fabianksi, Justin Hoyte, Philippe Senderos, Alex Song, Armand Traore, Abou Diaby, Gilberto, Theo Walcott, Nicklas Bendtner, Eduardo, Vito Mannone, Gavin Hoyte, Lassana Diarra, Neves Denilson, Henri Lansbury, Fran Merida, Nacer Barazite, William Gallas

Signs Look Good For Fabregas, Hleb, and Flamini

Cesc Fabregas, Alex Hleb and Mathieu Flamini could all return from injury in time for Arsenal's pivotal clash against Chelsea.

The three have arguably been Arsenal's best performers so far this season, so it will come as good news that all three are back in training.

Arsene Wenger had already stated that he would take a gamble on one or two of his players if they are were not fit, but it seems the Arsenal manager will not have to make a tough decision, as all three could be ready by Sunday.

The news will be welcome amongst Arsenal fans, as their team will have to deal with a dangerous midfield lineup which includes Frank Lampard, Joe Cole and Florent Malouda.

Not all was well at the Emirates though, as English youngster Theo Walcott has been ruled out of the match after picking up a small knock against Steaua Bucharest on Wednesday.

"Who will make it, I don’t know?" said Arsene Wenger. "We know Robin van Persie will be available. As for Mathieu Flamini, Cesc and Alex Hleb, the signs look quite good but we have to make a decision."

"Theo Walcott is out with a little knee problem," the Frenchman added. "That is a question of days and we feel he should be OK for Tuesday maybe."

Arsenal vs. Steaua Bucharest: Match Review

Arsenal defeated Steaua Bucharest 2-1 at the Emirates, returning to their winning ways before a tough fixture against Chelsea on Sunday.

The victory, which saw the return from injury of Robin van Persie, was not enough to put the Gunners at the top of their group, meaning that they will have to face Barcelona, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan, or Porto in the knockout stages.

Lineups:
Arsenal: Jens Lehmann; Bacary Sagna, William Gallas, Philippe Senderos, Armand Traore; Abou Diaby, Alex Song, Neves Denilson, Theo Walcott; Robin van Persie, Nicklas Bendtner

Steaua Bucharest: Robinson Zapata; Ifeany Emeghara, Dorin Goian, Mihai Nesu, Ionut Rada; Vasilica Cristocea, Nicolae Dica, Florin Lovin, Ovidiu Petre; Valentin Badea, Adrian Neaga

Arsenal started brightly, with Theo Walcott in particular showing some of his promise.

The 18 year-old was on the receiving end of a beautiful pass from the fit-again Robin van Persie, but shot just wide after only two minutes of play.

A few minutes later he had his second chance of the game this time created by his own guile. Walcott skipped past two challenges, and into the box, but could only fire over the bar.

Arsenal's actions paid off soon enough though, as Abou Diaby returned from injury to score the Gunners' first goal.

Walcott was once again in the fray, passing to Bacary Sagna, who centered the ball with a low cross. Countryman Diaby took a touch to control, and then sent a powerful shot into the back of the net, giving Arsenal an early lead.

The tempo wound down a bit as the half wore on, with Steaua looked well beaten despite being only one goal behind. Jens Lehmann's return saw the German keeper as more of a spectator than anything else.

Arsenal had another chance around the 35 minute mark when Robin van Persie took a shot from near the penalty spot but saw his effort curl wide of the post.

The English team still looked the more likely team to score though, and it came as no surprise when Nicklas Bendtner stepped up to claim Arsenal's second of the night.

A perceptive pass from van Persie met Bendtner in the area, and the big Dane stepped over a challenge before coolly slotting home.

Arsenal were cruising in the second half, and still looked the more likely team to score. Bendtner almost grabbed a second, only for Steaua keeper Robinson Zapata to rush out of goal.

It was Steaua who found the back of the net last though, soon after van Persie made way for Eduardo.

A looping header from Dorel Zaharia beat Jens Lehmann to give the Romanian team a consolation goal.

They never looked like they could come back level with Arsenal though, and only wastefulness kept the Gunners only a goal ahead, as both Theo Walcott and Eduardo went clear in stoppage time.

The squad will have to show better composure in front of goal if they hope to beat Chelsea this Sunday.

Arsenal vs. Steaua Bucharest: Match Preview

Steaua Bucharest travel to London this Wednesday as English giants Arsenal try to regain their winning form on home soil.

The Gunners lost their first match of the season in their last Champions League match away to Sevilla. Soon after, the squad lost their first Premier League game in a shock 2-1 defeat at Middlesbrough.

While Arsenal have already qualified for the Champions League knockout stages, Arsene Wenger will be looking for a win to boost his side's confidence ahead of a tough Premier League clash against Chelsea.

The North London club could also go first in the group if they defeat Steaua and Sevilla falter in Prague.

Steaua have nothing to play for, as they are four points adrift of third-placed Slavia Prague, meaning that the Romanian team will be knocked out of European competition no matter Wednesday's results.

Arsene Wenger's young side will still have a tough time defeating Steaua though, especially considering the large number of injuries.

Arsenal will still be missing Cesc Fabregas, Alex Hleb, Mathieu Flamini, although Abou Diaby and Robin van Persie will be in the squad for the first time in quite a while.

This leaves Arsene Wenger without too much choice, although he would likely want to change his squad from the one that lost at Middlesbrough.

Jens Lehmann is set to start his first game in goal for Arsenal since his high profile error at Blackburn on August 19.

Bacary Sagna, Kolo Toure, William Gallas, and Gael Clichy are the manager's undisputed first-choice back four. However, Justin Hoyte, Armand Traore, and maybe even Philippe Senderos could see some action as Wenger rest's his top players ahead of a congested fixture list.

In the midfield, Tomas Rosicky was the only player who had a decent game against Middlesbrough on Sunday, and he is likely to stay in the squad as the team's driving creative force.

The other positions are more difficult to place, but I would like to see Lassana Diarra and Neves Denilson alongside Theo Walcott and Emmanuel Eboue in a five man midfield.

If Abou Diaby is fully fit for the game, he would likely start in a more creative position instead of Denilson. However, he is more likely to come off of the bench like Robin van Persie, as he is unlikely to be match-fit.

This would leave space for Emmanuel Adebayor or Nicklas Bendtner to play alone up front, depending on how much Arsene Wenger is willing to risk.

Robin van Persie is going to be in the squad for the Steaua game, but he is unlikely to start, probably coming off the bench towards the end of the match.

Arsenal have already beaten Steaua Bucharest at home and I would be surprised (and disappointed) if we were to lose a home game against such relatively weak opponents.

I predict a 2-0 win for Arsenal, giving the team at least a small amount of momentum before the Chelsea challenge.

Arsenal Table Offer For Tresor Mputu

Congo striker Tresor Mputu's agent claims that Arsenal have made a concrete offer for the 21 year-old TP Mazembe star.

Mputu, who has scored 34 goals in 30 league games for his team, was in London on a 10 day trial which Arsene Wenger and Bajo Bujani, the player's agent, both considered to be successful.

Arsene Wenger's bid is reported to be around the £500,000 range, a great price for a player who has been called better than Cameroon and Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o. Bujani says that TP Mazembe have until Monday to respond.

Mputu also seems to be attracting interest from Spanish side Sevilla, but Bujani believes that Arsenal are leading the race to sign the Congo forward, and could snatch his signature by this weekend.

"While Seville have also shown great interest, I believe Tresor will end up in England," said the agent.

"Arsenal have given TP Mazembe until Monday to respond to their offer.

"I'm convinced that the deal will be completed after the weekend."

If he does come, Mputu might be sent on loan, rather than forced to compete for a first-team spot with the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor, Robin van Persie, Theo Walcott, Eduardo, Nicklas Bendtner and Carlos Vela.

Newcastle vs. Arsenal: Match Preview

Arsenal travel to St. James' Park this Wednesday as they finally play their game in hand against Newcastle United. Depending on Manchester United's result tomorrow, a win at Newcastle could see Arsenal go as many as eight points clear of their nearest competition.

A Gunners win could also see Sam Allardyce fired from his new club.

Arsene Wenger's boys will be high in confidence after bouncing back from their loss against Sevilla to beat Aston Villa 2-1 over the weekend.

However, a large number of injury absences could make the job a fair bit harder.

Arsenal's two best playmakers, Cesc Fabregas and Alex Hleb, are both unlikely to feature against Newcastle, and Robin van Persie and Abou Diaby are definitely out.

Newcastle have some injuries of their own as well, and after losing their last four games in a row they will have a tough time defeating the Gunners. Steven Taylor and Cacapa may return against Arsenal, but Stephen Carr, Abdoulaye Faye, Michael Owen, Celestine Babayaro, Peter Ramage, and Damien Duff will all miss the clash.

The Arsenal lineup will likely look very similar to that which played Aston Villa on the weekend.

Manuel Almunia will start in goal behind the tough back line of Bacary Sagna, Kolo Toure, William Gallas, and Gael Clichy.

The midfield could see some changes depending on the fitness of Alex Hleb and Cesc Fabregas.

If both are out, Wenger will probably play Emmanuel Eboue on the right with Lassana Diarra and Mathieu Flamini in the middle and Theo Walcott or Eduardo on the left. Tomas Rosicky would play either in a creative midfield role, or a more advanced position behind a lone striker.

However, if one of the two is able to play, Rosicky will most likely be moved out to the left wing, with Walcott and Eduardo being relegated to the bench.

Up front, Emmanuel Adebayor looks set to once again start up front alone. The Togo striker has been in great form this season, scoring 8 goals in the Premier League to become joint top-scorer.

Even with a weakened Arsenal lineup, I think that Newcastle's confidence and injury problems should lead to an emphatic Arsenal victory. I say 3-1 to the Arsenal.

Aston Villa vs. Arsenal: Match Preview

Arsenal travel to Villa Park this Saturday to face Martin O'Neill's on-form Aston Villa.

The Gunners will be looking to get back on track after losing to Sevilla on Tuesday, their first loss in any competition since April. Still, Arsene Wenger's squad will be confident, as the loss came on foreign soil with a depleted squad. An Arsenal win would keep the Gunners at least 3 points clear of Manchester United at the top of the Premier League.

Aston Villa are one of the few team's whose recent form can match Arsenal's, though, having won their last four games. Villa, who are currently placed 6th in the Premier League, could move within three points of Arsenal were they to win on home soil.

Their cause will be strengthened by a long Arsenal injury list, and not a single injury of their own (although Nigel Reo-Coker misses the game due to suspension).

Cesc Fabregas, Alex Hleb, and Gael Clichy are all very doubtful, and Robin van Persie is still out injured. Arsenal will, however, welcome Mathieu Flamini back into the squad, after the Frenchman picked up a knock while playing for his country.

Manuel Almunia will start in the away goal. Arsenal's defense will most likely be missing Gael Clichy, so Armand Traore may start in his place. Kolo Toure and William Gallas will start in the heart of the Arsenal back line, while Bacary Sagna slots in at right back.

Alternatively, Sagna could be switched to the left, with Emmanuel Eboue defending the right. However, Arsene Wenger enjoys fielding his youngsters so he may give 18 year-old Traore another chance to shine.

Arsenal will likely field a five man midfield with Robin van Persie still missing. Mathieu Flamini and either Lassana Diarra or Gilberto are likely to play in defensive roles, while Tomas Rosicky and Emmanuel Eboue track along the left and right wings respectively (unless the Ivorian is played at right-back). Neves Denilson is likely to start again in the center, but Wenger could also play Rosicky as a central attacking midfielder and Eduardo or Theo Walcott on the left wing.

Personally, I would like to see Rosicky in a central midfield role with Walcott's pace terrorizing the Villa defense. Unfortunately, I think that Wenger will be more conservative, placing the Czech Republic captain on the left.

Up front Emmanuel Adebayor will start alone, still missing his prolific Dutch striking partner.

Arsenal will face a tough challenge against a strong Aston Villa side. O'Neill's squad has scored more goals than any other Premier League team other than Arsenal and Everton, and Gabriel Agbonlahor and the tall John Carew will be a tough test for our defense.

Gareth Barry and Ashley Young will also be quite a handful for our back line, but hopefully Gilberto and Flamini will provide enough cover to keep Villa out of our net.

Even with some big names missing, Arsenal's midfield should be able to boss around the possession, but even the lanky Emmanuel Adebayor will find it difficult to win a header against a huge Aston Villa back four.

I expect that we will find a way to goal through some intricate passing though, and I therefore think we can win the game 2-1. Nonetheless, I wouldn't be too disappointed at coming away from Villa park with a point.