Lehman starts for Gunners against Rovers

Manuel Almunia’s absence for Arsenal meant Jens Lehmann was in goal against Blackburn – the side he made a huge blunder against earlier in the season to lose his place in the side.

It was only Lehmann’s second Barclays Premier League appearance since his error at Ewood Park, and that was last time out against Manchester City as Almunia had a thumb problem.

Almunia has also been struggling with a virus recently so the German veteran continued for Arsene Wenger’s side, who knew victory would extend their lead at the top of the table to five points.

Abou Diaby had a calf injury and was replaced by Gilberto in midfield.

Blackburn had David Dunn and Morten Gamst Pedersen suspended, so Tugay and Bruno Berner were brought in. Benni McCarthy replaced Matt Derbyshire.

Arsenal: Lehmann, Sagna, Gallas, Senderos, Clichy, Fabregas, Flamini, Silva, Hleb, Adebayor, Eduardo.

Subs: Fabianski, Bendtner, Traore, Justin Hoyte, Gilbert.

Blackburn: Friedel, Emerton, Ooijer, Khizanishvili, Warnock, Bentley, Kerimoglu, Reid, Berner, McCarthy, Santa Cruz.

Subs: Brown, Mokoena, Rigters, Kane, Roberts.

Referee: Steve Bennett (Kent)