Wenger: we can cope without Fabregas
The Spain international is recovering from a hamstring problem, on which scans have revealed only minor damage, and is in contention to return for Saturday’s Barclays Premier League showdown at Manchester United.
Czech winger Tomas Rosicky is training again following his injury lay-off, and also may be included this weekend. However, before the Gunners look to extend their 100% domestic start, there is the small matter of the return leg of their European tie, in which they defend a 2-0 lead.
Wenger has utilised a fluid 4-3-3 formation this season to great effect, with Fabregas flanked by defensive cover. Wales youngster Aaron Ramsey replaced Fabregas at half-time against Portsmouth on Saturday, when he netted his first league goal, while Abou Diaby also laid down his own marker with a brace in the 4-1 win.
“Cesc’s scan was quite reassuring,” revealed Wenger. “He has no muscular strain, but it will take a few days to settle. There is a chance he will be fit for Old Trafford.”
The Arsenal manager continued: “My target is to win tomorrow’s game, it’s a massive game for us and after that we will see what we do for the weekend.”
Wenger insists there will be no sense of complacency even though the odds are stacked against the Scottish side.
“We know there is so much at stake for us. I do not think we are in danger of easing off at all,” he said. “We know how quickly football can change and that makes it interesting as well.”
Wenger is closely monitoring the transfer market ahead of the September 1 deadline, although the Arsenal manager maintains no signings are imminent and denied a deal had already been done for St Etienne midfielder Blaise Matuidi.
“The only thing I can tell you is that at the moment we are not close to signing anybody,” said Wenger.
However, the future of centre-back Philippe Senderos, who was in talks with Everton, remains unclear. “If he has not moved before August 31, then he will be considered as any other player in the squad,” said Wenger.
Tony Mowbray believes it is unwise to write Celtic off but admits the Bhoys are pinning all their hopes on scoring first.
“It’s a difficult task after the first leg but it’s a game we’re looking forward to. I’ve talked about trying to score the first goal,” said Mowbray.
“In any match the third goal is a very crucial one – it’s either when the game’s put to bed or the team who was 2-0 up get very nervous. We’re at half-time in this tie and we need the goal. If we score first he (Arsene Wenger) won’t be relaxing and it won’t be a case of bringing some players off to rest them for Manchester United.”
Arsenal will be without forward Theo Walcott (back), reserve goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski (knee), France winger Samir Nasri (broken leg) and defender Johan Djourou (knee).
Celtic midfielder Landry N’Guemo will miss the clash through suspension while Stephen McManus and Barry Robson did not travel south with the squad.
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