Great Expectations

The chances of me being able to pen a column prior to setting of for the Grove tomorrow are slim, so it’s preview time on Goonerholic this morning.

The injury situation appears to have improved according to reports yesterday, with Eboue, Djourou, Aliadiere, and Baptista apparently fit to play. Tottenham are not so fortunate, with King and Berbatov definitely out, and question marks hang over the availability of Mido.

The key decisions for Arsene appear to centre around the full-back and midfield berths. Eboue may be preferred to Hoyte after his impressive cameo at the Lane last week. Given Lennon’s performance last week ‘Le Boss’ must also be tempted to start the ‘experienced’ twenty-one year old Clichy rather than seventeen year old Traore.

In the centre of the park I would expect to see Gilberto return after suspension and Cesc Fabregas given a breather. The Brazilian could be partnered by Denilson in the centre, with Diaby on the left, or vice-versa.

Theo Walcott will, I’m sure, be given another chance to provide the ammunition for Aliadiere and Baptista. I’ve got a sneaky feeling this could be Theo’s night, but don’t ask me why. Call it Holics intuition!

Arsene has already promised there will be a strong bench, just in case. That means Henry and Rosicky for sure, and probably Fabregas. Let’s hope they’re not needed.

We cannot ignore the fact that Tottenham will be fired up for this one. Like Bolton they will work hard at closing down, but if Mido doesn’t make it they will lack the holding player up front and will need to take the young Gunners on in a passing contest. That should be in our favour.

So the scene is set. I’m looking forward to the pre-match pint and taking my place in the Grove for what should be the most ‘atmospheric’ contest it has yet witnessed. Good luck boys, grasp the opportunity to test yourselves against Chelsea in Cardiff.. The alternative does not bear contemplating.