Fabregas out of Cup final

Arsenal will be without captain Cesc Fabregas (hamstring) and Theo Walcott (ankle) for the Carling Cup final against Birmingham at Wembley on Sunday, but striker Robin van Persie (hamstring) should return.

Centre-back Laurent Koscielny has recovered from a back injury, while midfielder Abou Diaby is available again after suspension.

Defender Thomas Vermaelen continues his recovery from an Achilles problem.

Team (from): Szczesny, Sagna, Koscielny, Djourou, Clichy, Nasri, Song, Wilshere, Rosicky, Arshavin, van Persie, Almunia, Gibbs, Eboue, Denilson, Chamakh, Bendtner, Squillaci.