Unleashing the Beast?

With just twenty-four hours to the Gunners Champions League clash with Porto speculation is rife that Julio Baptista may be let loose on the 2004 winners.

The on-loan Brazilian has only featured from the bench thus far but Wenger has confirmed his time is close. "It is more adaptation to the pace of the game and the movement here - intelligence wise he has no problem, quality wise he is a big player,'' the Arsenal boss said.

Perhaps the different pace and nature of the Champions League will facilitate a first start for for the man who draws these admiring words from his new manager, "Once he is running with the ball, you just feel this guy cannot be stopped.

Wenger has long been an admirer of Baptista, and was close to agreeing a deal with Sevilla when he moved to Real Madrid last summer, citing the imminent acquisition of a Spanish passport as his primary concern.

Wenger would appear to have every confidence the player can kick-start his career at Arsenal after seeing chances become limited with Real. "Whatever they say about him at Real Madrid, Baptista scored seven goals having started 15 games. "His scoring record is fairly impressive. I expect him to adapt quickly.''

The selection of Baptista would give Arsenal options as far as formation is concerned. He could feature alongside Henry in a striking role, or as the advanced point of a five man midfield.

Of course it would not be a major surprise if Arsene was also trying to throw Porto off the scent. He may choose to leave 'the Beast' on the bench, but there is surely no better opportunity in the coming weeks to see what the big man can do?