Players banned left, right and centre. A string of injuries. Arsenal are up against it in tomorrow night’s replay at Blackburn. Here’s the latest team news…
Arsenal will be without Adebayor and Toure through suspension following the much publicised Cup Final brawl and failed appeal. Their team selection problems don’t end there. Henry is apparently out with a foot injury, Rosicky with a groin injury, Diaby with his ankle. They also have doubts over Hoyte with a hamstring, Djourou with his ankle and Flamini with his foot. Van Persie is of course a long-term injury and still faces 4-8 weeks on the sidelines according to Arsenal’s physio. Gallas, Hleb and Ljungberg will all return and Clichy could play after recovering from a knock.
Predicted Lineup: Alumnia, Eboue, Gallas, Senderos, Traore, Silva, Denilson, Ljungberg, Hleb, Baptista, Aliadiere
In contrast, Blackburn have no new injury worries. Samba has been passed fit after he limped out of the Portsmouth game on Sunday. He’s likely to retain his place in the centre of defence, alongside the recalled Nelson, who will come in for Henchoz. McCarthy should get a recall in place of Derbyshire to partner the in-form Nonda up front.
Predicted Lineup: Friedel, Emerton, Samba, Nelsen, Warnock, Bentley, Mokoena, Tugay, Pedersen, Nonda, McCarthy