So, it seems like ages since Arsenal last played, only the second midweek since December where we haven't had a match. Anyways, Arsene Wenger's pre-match press conference was today and we got clarification on a number of things. News on Jens Lehmann, who is now officially an Arsenal player, again. Le boss has been speaking about how only Arsenal would have been able to entice Jens Lehmann to dust off his gloves and get in between the sticks. Of course we're all hoping that he isn't actually forced to play but as Arsenal fans, we know that stranger things have happened. As many of you will know, the relationship between Almunia and Lehmann has traditionally been fractious at best, but with the German making all the right sounds in recent days Arsene Wenger is convinced that Lehmann will be able to push Almunia (not literally) to perform and will be supporting him.
Other news now, not of the nice variety as Thomas Vermaelen has been ruled out for what looks to be the rest of the season with his niggly tendons. Johan Djourou could yet feature in this campaign, as he is set to spend at least six weeks on the sidelines. I don't know whether playing a half-fit centre-back is really that good an idea though, so it's yet to be seen just how much of a part he'll play. In other news, we travel to West Brom without Cesc Fabregas, Theo Walcott, Alex Song, About Diaby and of course not that many goalkeepers either. Most of those are expected to be back after the international break.
The boss spoke on a number of other topics. Sir Alex Ferguson's touchline ban came up, although he will be back on the bench for the match at the Emirates as United have requested for the ban to start tomorrow. A lack of leadership also came up, with Wenger arguing that it is a problem, but equally that pure leadership doesn't win you games.
In other news, the Reserves overcame Liverpool Reserves at Underhill last night, winning the match 2-1. Luke Freeman fired a rocket into the top corner to open the scoring before Rhys Murphy hit the post with a casual penalty. It proved costly as Liverpool looked to have equalised in the 88th minute, before Freeman scored in injury time to once again give Arsenal Reserves the 3 points. For a more in-depth match report, follow this link.
Also, Arsenal Ladies came from behind in the Champions League quarter-finals to finish the first leg 1-1. There's a match report for this one as well, just follow this link.
That's all for today, I'll try and have a full preview plus footage of Arsene Wenger's pre-match presser tomorrow. Toodle-oo.
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