Captain returns to command midfield.
The meandering performance last weekend brought back memories of a year ago when we could not buy a goal. In the end, we were fortunate to grab two goals against Everton but as Fabregas proved against Villa, he can add vital decisiveness from midfield.
With Denilson a doubt for the trip to the Reebok, Cesc may be joined in central midfield by Diaby and Ramsey, neither of whom will take to the defensive role naturally. Diaby has the physical presence but Wenger may ask Ramsey to rotate with him so that he doesn’t completely sacrifice DIaby’s attacking talents.
The unconvincing front three of Arshavin, Nasri and Eduardo will presumably continue as there are few alternatives but it will be the effectiveness of our midfield that will decide the match. We have the potential to overwhelm any opponent but without Song, it will be a challenge to regain the balance in the team.
Bolton’s players will be keen to impress Owen Coyle but it will be interesting to see how quickly he attempts to implement his ideas. Bolton have a negative reputation from Sam Allardyce’s days but under Gary Megson they could neither play good football or the direct style that Allardyce found so effective. Coyle will presumably be looking to resurrect the fluid style he employed at Burnley but Bolton have an identity crisis at the moment so it will be intriguing to see their approach, both at the Reebok on Sunday and at the Grove on Wednesday.
Prediction: 2-1 to the Arse