By Boris Mellor
December 2 2005

Arsene Wenger considers this game as tough as the one we had against Wigan. In some ways it will be tougher as the Walrus’s team is far more experienced, and knows how to rough up hesitant defenders.

Arsenal have hit a rich vein of form, with 9 wins, and one draw, in the last ten games. The goal scoring quality has returned, and it is not just Henry; Robin van Persie has also been prolific. You get the feeling that both can score in any match they play in. But the defence does not look quite as sound as the attack.

With Clichy and Cole still injured it must be assumed that Cygan will play at left back again. Bolton will prove to be the sternest test this defence has had for quite a while, with a mix of quick breaks and dangerous high balls. Bolton are more skilful than they have ever been.

One gets the feeling that this Arsenal team can outscore anyone on its day, but it’s a theory best not put to the test. Defending a lead, and then building on it makes far more sense than giving goals away five minutes after scoring.

Bolton is not a ground that the team relish visiting, even when Vieira was present, how they perform tomorrow will be a good yardstick of how far they have adapted to playing without Paddy.

 Arsene has announced that there are no new injuries, so he has plenty of forwards to choose from. Although Alexander Hleb and Alex Song are fit again after their knee injuries Wenger is saving them for the Champions League tie with Ajax on Wednesday.