Cesc back for Ipswich showdown

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has restored captain Cesc Fabregas to his starting line-up for the Carling Cup semi-final first leg against Ipswich at Portman Road.

Fabregas came off the bench to net a late equaliser against Leeds on Saturday but is in from the start as Wenger makes four changes.

Also back are Theo Walcott, Laurent Koscielny and Jack Wilshere as the Gunners name a strong side in pursuit of their first trophy in six years.

New Ipswich boss Paul Jewell will not take charge until tomorrow morning but coach Ian McParland makes two changes from the side humbled 7-0 at Chelsea.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Eboue, Koscielny, Djourou, Gibbs, Walcott, Denilson, Fabregas, Wilshere, Arshavin, Bendtner. Subs: Shea, Vela, Ramsey, Song, Chamakh, Eastmond, Miquel.