Alumunia back in goal for Gunners

Manuel Almunia returned in goal as Arsenal made the expected wholesale changes for this afternoon’s FA Cup fourth-round tie against npower League One Huddersfield at the Emirates Stadium.

The veteran Spaniard had not played since the end of September following elbow and ankle injuries, and had at one stage looked set to leave the club.

Abou Diaby and Sebastien Squillaci were also both fit again after long lay-offs, while Emmanuel Eboue, Kieran Gibbs, Marouane Chamakh and Samir Nasri, who captained the side, all started.

However, just as in the midweek Carling Cup semi-final win over Ipswich, manager Arsene Wenger named a strong bench – with Cesc Fabregas, Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott all available if needed.

Huddersfield are chasing promotion to the Championship, and had top-flight experience in the shape of Joey Gudjonsson and on-loan Kevin Kilbane.