Svensson backs Saints to test Gunners

Defender Michael Svensson believes Southampton’s narrow defeat at Manchester United two weeks ago can give them the confidence to end Arsenal’s record unbeaten start to the season.

Svensson and his team-mates face an Arsenal side who are two points clear of United at the top of Barclaycard Premiership table having gone 24 games without defeat.

The Swedish centre-back will be under extra pressure at Highbury tomorrow as he sets about the task of trying to stop French star Thierry Henry who has already scored 25 goals in all competitions this season.

But Southampton were unlucky to lose 3-2 at United last month and Svensson insists Gordon Strachan’s side can take great heart for that match as they prepare to play the Premiership leaders.

“Arsenal will be a very difficult side to keep quiet,” admitted Svensson.

“They have great quality and have gone 24 games unbeaten. But we played well against Manchester United and will look to give them a really good game,” he added.

“We should have got a point at Old Trafford and if we produce such a good performance again then we have got a great chance of getting some points there.

“The important thing is that we cannot let Arsenal have the space to play with the likes of Henry and Robert Pires in their team. If you give them lots of space then they will score goals.

“Henry doesn’t just score goals but creates chances for others. He is one of the best strikers in the world, but that’s why I’m playing in the Premiership.

“They are a world-class team but we have to look at our own performances and concentrate on that.”

Southampton lost 6-1 in the corresponding fixture season year before Arsenal then beat them in the FA Cup final 10 days later.

Svensson added: “We want to have revenge for last year’s game and when we played them before Christmas.

“But we had a few injuries then and that made a big difference. We weren’t performing well then and were a bit weak, but we have to forget about that and be a bit stronger.”

Strachan revealed he has been pleased by his side’s recent performances but admitted facing Arsenal would be a tough test.

He said: “We’re happy with the performances recently but we know this is going to be big, tough game.

“Our defence was decimated when we played them earlier this season, but we will be reminding the team of the game before, along with the two performances against Manchester United and Fulham.”