Pires and Almunia join Gunners casualties

Robert Pires (virus) and goalkeeper Manuel Almunia (hand) will miss Arsenal’s Premiership match at Fulham tomorrow.

Dennis Bergkamp and Freddie Ljungberg are back in the squad after recovering from calf problems, but Robin van Persie (toe) has still not yet recovered full match fitness and youngster Theo Walcott will be rested.

Full-back Ashley Cole faces at least another three weeks out after spraining his ankle when playing for the reserves on Monday.

Sol Campbell (ankle) continues to receive treatment, along with Pascal Cygan (hamstring) and Kerrea Gilbert (back). Gael Clichy (foot) and Lauren (knee) are longer-term absentees.

Team (from): Lehmann, Flamini, Senderos, Djourou, Toure, Eboue, Fabregas, Gilberto, Diaby, Hleb, Henry, Bergkamp, Ljungberg, Poom, Adebayor, Lupoli, Larsson, Walcott, Reyes, Song.