Originally posted by turbo_drift:
[b]Portsmouth welcome Arsenal
to Fratton Park on the final day of the season knowing that only a
win will give them a fighting chance of claiming a Uefa Cup
spot.
Even if they match their home victories over Liverpool and
Manchester United in April though, a win for either Reading or
Bolton will ensure that Harry Redknapp's side miss out on a
top-seven finish.
For Arsenal, the incentive is to move above Liverpool and into
third place, but Arsene Wenger's men must better The Reds' result
against Charlton or overturn a goal difference deficit of
two.
If Pompey are to achieve their European dream then they will have
to do so without Sol Campbell as the defender will not face his
former side due to an Achilles injury.
Dejan Stefanovic will also be absent due to a thigh problem, and
Redknapp will also be without another former Gunner in Lauren
(foot) as he looks to contain the joint-second highest scorers in
the Premiership.
Left-sided star Matthew Taylor is rated as doubtful as a result of
a damaged ankle, although with Richard Hughes (knee) but Pedro
Mendes could be back to boost the midfield after missing
two-and-a-half months with an ankle injury.
Svetoslav Todorov has also been on the injury list in recent months
- having played just once in 2007 - but the Bulgarian striker could
make an appearance after finally shaking off a knee problem.
Nwankwo Kanu will feature against his former side in a game that
could prove to be his Pompey farewell if the South Coast side
cannot agree a contract extension with the Nigerian star.
Arsenal will be determined to end a difficult season on a high note
at Fratton Park, and pride will ensure that Wenger's troops look to
finish above Liverpool as first runners-up to Manchester United and
Chelsea.
Thierry Henry (stomach and groin), Robin van Persie (metatarsal)
and Theo Walcott (shoulder) remain long-term absentees but Emmanuel
Adebayor is also rated as doubtful due to a groin problem.
As a result, Julio Baptista is likely to feature in what is his
last chance to impress Wenger before the Frenchman decides whether
to sign him on a permanent deal from Real Madrid.
Freddie Ljungberg has shaken off a hamstring problem, unlike Tomas
Rosicky, whilst Jens Lehmann and Gilberto will both be rested after
a long campaign. [/b]
adebayor injured?wth? who will replace him? i heard bendter is
back. i hope he and baps will play upfront and let Flamini play his
last game for arsenal.
