Pompey defender Arjan De Zeeuw was injured at Watford on New Years Day and Harry Redknapp acted quick to sign some cover. The 23 year old Greek made his debut in last year's 4-0 League Cup win over Man Utd (and impressed) but his chances have been extremely limited since then. He is expected to go straight into the Portsmouth side for the FA Cup 3rd round this weekend.... against United again.

There has been speculation that Arsenal are to lose another defender, permanently. Matthew Upson, who is in front of Tavlaridis in the pecking order but not getting chances himself (despite being back from his extremely successful loan at Reading), is said to be wanted by Steve Bruce at Birmingham. Bruce has refused to comment. Upson may have thought he'd get a shot on his return from the Royals, but Keown's return to fitness put the scuppers on that (despite Cygan's injury).

At Arseweb we very much hope that Wenger gives Upson a proper chance. He should get more opportunities if he stays fit. Le Boss quite rightly says that Upson could still become something very special, and might have done by now if he hadn't been so unlucky with injuries....

"Matthew has all you dream of if you play at centre-back. He has all the attributes any centre-half in the world could possibly wish for... pace, power and his technique in the air is extremely good."