Source: Team_Talk
Silvestre backing young Gunners
The 32-year-old defender, a Champions League winner with Manchester United in 2008, will be the senior member of the Arsenal side in their final Group H match as, with qualification already assured, manager Arsene Wenger opted to give most of his first-team regulars a much-needed rest.[LNB]Silvestre believes the likes of 18-year-old left-back Tom Cruise, who has yet to make his senior debut, and reserve-team captain Kyle Bartley can raise their game at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium.[LNB]"Playing alongside them already this season in the reserves and last week in the Carling Cup at Manchester City, you can see they have the quality to play at the top level," said the France international, who moved to the Emirates Stadium in August 2008.[LNB]"Technically and physically they are ready, but after it is mentally where they have to step up.[LNB]"It is a good opportunity for them to test themselves in the Champions League."[LNB]Silvestre has watched from the bench for most of the season, appearing in two Champions League fixtures, three Carling Cup ties and his only Barclays Premier League action coming in the final couple of minutes of last weekend's 2-0 win over Stoke.[LNB]He admits it has been tough, but is ready to show his value again tomorrow.[LNB]"It is difficult to stay in shape because you can train as hard as you want, but the reality is the game is completely different," Silvestre said.[LNB]"I have shown I still have the pace to play at the top level, and I have been involved in some good games already this season.[LNB]"Hopefully tomorrow will be another one."[LNB]Wenger believes his young Gunners can cope with what is expected to be a hot reception from the passionate Athens supporters.[LNB]The Gunners boss said: "It is a good opportunity to show they have the quality and also that they can cope with the pressure which comes away from home in a very hot atmosphere.[LNB]"The best way to cool the atmosphere down and make it cold is to play good football."[LNB][LNB][LNB]
