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Barcelona v The Arse: Preview
Barcelona v The Arse: Preview
Tuesday, 6th Apr 2010 12:53

The sequel may not be as spectacular but it could be even more memorable.

The first leg at the Grove was an unbelievable night of pure football that the second leg will almost certainly fail to live up to but it could provide the best result in Europe that Arsenal have ever had.

The side that will take to the pitch will be a long way from our first choice eleven but, in some ways, that gives us even more freedom to play without pressure and enjoy the occasion. This is when our style of football becomes more effective, particularly when we need to score. Had we taken a lead to the Nou Camp we may have been handicapped by a negative attitude but we have to score and effectively have to win the game so the players can go out, enjoy themselves, play to their full potential and do us proud.

With so little choice, the team picks itself and it seems that Sol Campbell will shake off a tight hamstring to remarkably get the chance to take revenge on the team that denied him the match winning goal in a Champions League final. He will be partnered by the impressive Vermaelen and flanked by Sagna and Clichy in a defence that, on paper at least, has a chance of repelling the Barca attack.

If we are to give ourselves a fighting chance the midfield duo of Denilson and Diaby will need to put in a superhuman effort. Both have put in impressive shifts at times this season but equally they have the potential to disappoint, with Xavi reaching for perfection, they will have to ensure they bring their ‘A’ games. Further forward, Nasri has been given the job of deputising for Fabregas which he has done very well already and he will be asked to provide for a front three of Walcott, Bendtner and Eboue. Rosicky is also an option but he is struggling with the injury that Henry gave him at the weekend and the running power of Eboue and Walcott will be a vital outlet if we are under pressure.

Obviously Barcelona are favourites but we have a chance. Luck is not something that has looked on us favourably in the Champions League but a small slice of it tonight may see us pull off our most improbably victory since Anfield 21 years ago.

Photo: Action Images



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