But Ray Parlour, who was expected to miss the game also with an ankle problem, has made the squad and is likely to make up the midfield along with Robert Pires and the Brazilian pair.

Martin Keown is also out, with a calf injury, as are a few that wouldn't be playing anyway such as Stuart Taylor (a week away from fitness), Phillipe Senderos (still having back problems but optimistic), and Rami Shaaban.

Dennis Bergkamp is back and fit, having been in full training for over a week. So Le Boss has to choose between him, Wiltord, and Aliadiere as a partner for Henry. The youngster did well at Liverpool so it'll be interesting to see how much faith the manager puts in him now that he has another option again besides Wiltord.

Guessing who the Chelsea team was going to be was hard back when they didn't have 50 world class players. What we do know is that Desailly and Gallas are both doubtful with back and ankle injuries, so John Terry is likely to be partnered by Robert Huth. Veron is said to be approaching full fitness again so is back in contetion for a midfield berth against Cole and umpteen others.

Chelsea are denying stories that they've launched a bid for Wayne Rooney. Robert Pires has said that they tapped him up in the summer too. He went on to sign a new 3 year deal at Highbury. "It was an easy decision to make because I love playing for Arsenal. I always wanted to stay at the club."