In addition, Pires and Bergkamp are being rested. This all leaves a few holes. Bentley has been drafted into the squad, and reports suggest he'll make his first Premiership start. Perhaps he'll be on the right wing with Parlour stepping into the Brizilians' shoes alongside Vieira. Kanu is likely to get the chance for the single appearance he needs for a medal, and Aliadiere needs 2 more games as well. But Wenger has hinted that Reyes will play again as he wants to give the Spaniard plenty of opportunity to continue to adjust. So, although he's said before that Henry plays whenever fit, we might see the maestro start on the bench.

Martin Keown will need to feature at some point to get his medal, but with the big changes fourther forward, perhaps Le Boss will decide not to change things at the back, not from the start at any rate.

Pompey are said to be missing Linvoy Primus. They're no longer battling for points but will be well up for the chance of being the team to break the run, and will only be encouraged by the suggestions of a makeshift Arsenal attack.