It makes sense. We lost Gilberto for a number of games last season, more than most international players because it was such a long way for him to go that he needed plenty of rest afterwards. Edu was rested from Sunday's game for just this reason, and now that he has joined Gilberto as a Brazil player Arsenal need to be even more concerned about the situation (especially as they both play in the same position). We can expect Arsenal to oppose their playing in all friendly matches and if necessary, the club is expected to appeal to FIFA to get their way.

However, FIFA rules would appear to favour Brazil. Arsenal may have to pick and choose which friendlies to bar the players from, or find a compromise whereby only one is used at a time. But the latter approach might harm both club and country - if they were to end up playing together for Brazil it might enhance rather than harm their Arsenal performances.

With regard to otjer international call-ups mentioned last week, it is worth adding that Jurgen Klinsmann has removed the Germany captain's job from Oliver Kahn. He says he's given the armband to Michael Ballack because he wants the skipper to be an outfield player. But it's surely also because Kahn's place is no longer assured.

David Bentley, on loan at Norwich, has had to pull out of the England U21 side to face Ukraine tomorrow. After a good start to the game, he had to come off with a calf injury against Palace on Saturday. It's not clear yet if he'll be fit to face Man Utd next weekend.