Arsene Wenger will wait before deciding line-up for Chelsea game
Arsenal manger Arsene Wenger has revealed that he will delay a decision over his starting line-up for Sunday’s crucial English Premier League clash with Chelsea to allow Francesc Fabregas and Manuel Almunia to prove they are fit.
Midfielder Fabregas has been out of action since picking up a hamstring injury in the draw with Sunderland, while goalkeeper Almunia missed the UEFA Champions League clash with Partizan Belgrade after picking up an elbow injury.
2010 FIFA World Cup winner Fabregas and Almunia are among the first names on Wenger’s team-sheet when they are fit, and the Gunners boss will be hoping that he can call on their talents for the match against the defending champions and league leaders.
Wenger told the club’s official website that he was giving them until Saturday to show that they will be able to play a part in the game.
'Fabregas has 50/50 of being ready'
He said that: “I don’t know (about Fabregas). It looks a 50/50 but a 50/50 balancing on the negative side. I will find out on Saturday morning. (Almunia) is even more difficult. He has not been in a regular training session. So I will see.”
Meanwhile, the Gunners boss took the opportunity to speak of the other casualties the club have, and ruled out any chance of central defender Thomas Vermalen playing in the Stamford Bridge showdown.
He said that: “Vermaelen – no. Abou Diaby has an 80 per cent chance to be involved. I am not sure if he will be completely 100 per cent but it is 100 per cent he will be in the squad.”
Wenger also mentioned Nicklas Bentner and Aaron Ramsey, who have been out of action for an extended period of time with a groin injury and broken leg respectively.
He said that: “Nicklas Bendtner should be available after the international break and Aaron Ramsey is progressing very well.”
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