Yet more injuries cast doubt over Champions League aspirations.

The last time we were knocked out of the FA Cup in the fourth round we went on to reach the Champions League final but few teams in Europe could withstand the number of injuries that we have suffered this season.

Already shorn of van Persie, Djourou and Gibbs for the best part of a season, the latest spate of injuries has meant Gallas, Song, Arshavin, Almunia and Eduardo have been left out of the party travelling to Portugal.

Many were pleased with our draw for the first knock out phase but there really are no easy games when it comes down to the best 16 teams in Europe and Porto have had the quality to qualify for UEFA’s flagship competition in the last ten consecutive seasons. We have faced them many times in that time and have always look a class above in the important matches but the renewed defensive concentration that was displayed versus Liverpool will have to be seen again tonight if we are to be in a strong position for the return leg in two weeks time.

The goals have not been flowing for a few games now and although Bendtner’s return to full fitness should help, defensive stability is the key to success, as was proved during the remarkable run of clean sheets en route to Paris in 2006. The Champions League has become synonymous with gut wrenching defeats during Wenger’s time at the club but a more watertight defence could see us finally avenge those nights at Anfield, the Mestalla and the Stade de France and lift the trophy. Sol Campbell’s return to the club provides the perfect cast for the fairytale ending, given his heroic performance in the ’06 final, and he will be hoping to play his part, starting by keeping a clean sheet tonight.

Lukasz Fabianski, like all of our ‘keepers, has looked vulnerable this season so Campbell and Vermaelen will need to give him as much protection as possible, something which we achieved a week ago versus Liverpool. In front of them Alex Song is missing but his physical presence would be missed more in a Premier League encounter. With Diaby in central midfield we should have the necessary power to dominate even if the lethargic Denilson is selected.

The injury problems are severe but we still look to have the personnel to at least progress to the quarter-finals. Man Utd proved last night that you have to ride your luck at times but even if we don’t get the rub of the green, we should be favourites against a Porto team who have been unable to dominate the mediocre Portuguese league this season.

Prediction: 2-0 to the Arse.

Photo: Action Images

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