By Boris Mellor
September 25 2006

It is hardly more than a year ago since I would sit writing these previews in dread. What horrible defensive error would we make, would it be another draw?

Would we go to Inter Milan needing a cricket score to qualify. I previewed with dread, and celebrated the aftermath.

 

Then last year it all changed, we waltzed through Europe with the best defence ever. All the experts, and Arsenal Times, said we would never win the CL because our defence was lousy. Other whined on about Wenger having no plan B. But we got to the final and now we want to go back and win it this time.

 

So that brings us to Tuesday night, how will the Gunners do against FC Porto? That’s the problem with previews – how can I tell you? I don’t know who Arsene will play, the squad was not published at the time of writing; and Arsenal have doubts over Freddie Ljungberg (knee) and Johan Djourou (foot).

 

Freddy played well on Saturday, but we have adequate replacements, but Djourou, if missing, could undermine a defence that is keeping clean sheets again.

 

FC Porto are at the top of the Portugese league, and are regaining strength after losing Mourinho and the players who went with him, but they are not quite the team that won the CL.

 

Apparently they had spies at Saturday’s game, but they don’t need Warnock to teach them about mass defending and lone strikers, Mourinho patented it during his time there.

 

Arsenal are beginning to feel more at home now, I know I am.

 

So patience, and no silly cries of shoot, are required. An early goal will be great, but it might have to come the hard way. As Chapman, and Billy G, have said a team can attack too much. If they won’t come out draw them out, but don’t risk giving away the sucker goal.

 

Stop Press 18: 30

 

Although Freddie Ljungberg and Johan Djourou didnt train today it is thought they will still be available tomorrow.

 

Don’t forget the Prediction League. Only 24 Hours to go.