Source: Telegraph
Champions League: Arsenal v Celtic preview
Celtic v Arsenal
Kick-off: Wednesday Aug 26, 7.45pm BST; Emirates Stadium, London
TV: ITV 1, 7.30 pm
Touchline duel:
Arsene Wenger and Tony Mowbray’s mutual admiration was tested during a bruising match at Celtic Park last week and further entertainment appears guaranteed tonight.
At some stage, Celtic must take chances and will inevitably provide opportunities for Arsenal’s potent counter-attack. Both managers are committed to a flowing brand of football and, between them, their teams have scored 18 goals this season in just four league games.
Talking tactics:
With a match against Manchester United looming on Saturday, Arsene Wenger must carefully consider how he manages his resources.
He cannot take any risks over a Champions League place but surely will be hoping to get the tie wrapped up quickly so that he can bring off and rest key players. The fluid 4-2-1-3 formation is unlikely to be altered however and, with Cesc Fabregas injured, Abou Diaby may get his chance in a more offensive midfield position.
Head to head:
Georgios Samaras v Thomas Vermaelen
Vermaelen has made an encouraging start to his Arsenal career but can expect another physical test from Samaras, who scored in Moscow when Celtic overturned a first leg Champions League qualifying deficit earlier this month.
So far, Vermaelen’s anticipation, pace and passing have all caught the eye, while he also appears to have an unflappable temperament. The one unanswered question, though, is how he copes when Arsenal’s defence comes under more severe pressure.
Arsenal (4-2-1-3): Almunia; Sagna, Vermaelen, Gallas, Clichy; Denilson, Song; Diaby; Bendtner, Eduardo, Arshavin
