Wenger gunning for win to mark 13 years at Arsenal
Walcott will be missing from action tonight as he struggles for match fitness
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By Sarah Garrod. |  |
Tuesday, 29, Sep 2009 02:00
By Michael Younger.
Arsene Wenger will be looking for the chance of an early celebration as his Arsenal side take on Olympiakos tonight at the Emirates Stadium.
On Thursday, the Frenchman will mark 13 years at the north London outfit and will be hoping his high-flying team can claim three points in their first home tie in the competition this season.
Arsenal will face the Greek side without attacking outlets Nicolas Bendtner, who was involved in a minor car crash on Sunday, and Theo Walcott, who isn't yet fully fit.
However, Wenger is hopeful the two will line up against Blackburn Rovers at the weekend.
The Gunners were hit with further withdrawals ahead of tonight's clash, with Wenger confirming that Brazilian midfielder Denilson - out of action for two months due to a minor fracture in his back - will miss the game.
Italian youngster Vito Mannone continues to deputise in goal for Manuel Almunia, who is absent through illness.
Olympiakos' new coach, Zico, who watched their winning start to the Champions League following his swift appointment as Temuri Ketsbaia's replacement, will take charge for his first Champions League encounter tonight.
His side will be missing familiar faces tonight, as former Blackburn Rovers striker Matt Derbyshire (thigh) and ex-West Brom midfielder Enzo Maresca (groin) don't make the trip to London.
But former Aston Villa defender Olof Mellberg, who scored the first competitive goal at the Emirates Stadium, will be in the Olympiakos squad.