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Premiership: Arsenal v Portsmouth - Match Preview

/noticias.info/ By Richard Clarke

Having gained as much as anyone could have expected in three successive away games, Arsenal now must attempt to solve the Achilles heel of their Premiership season so far — consistency at home.

It is important to stress that Arsène Wenger’s side have not actually lost at Emirates Stadium yet. But their eight Premiership games have brought four wins and four draws. Of the top 10 in the division, only Aston Villa have gleaned fewer points.

The scenario so far has been this. If Arsenal take the lead they win 3-0, if the opposition score first they draw 1-1.

Crucially, Wenger argues his side have found a defensive stability in a trio of tough trips recently. The challenge now is to gain the momentum necessary for a run that will see them close in on the top two.

“We have had three difficult away games - Porto, Chelsea and Wigan — where we have been stable defensively and resilient,” said the manager at Friday’s press conference.

“We have shown great spirit and great character. We have responded well to the two disappointing results we had at Bolton and Fulham. We have improved our belief and our strength but now we want consistency.

“I feel at the moment it’s not been long enough to say we will [go on a run]. You expect a longer consistency - six, seven, eight or nine games - before you can say that. But I believe we are capable to do it.

“However we are playing 10 weeks on the trot, three games a week. So it is down to how we will cope physically with the schedule we have.”

Consistency and injuries are normally linked so it is concerning that Arsenal’s treatment room continues to be pretty crowded. Tomas Rosicky (hamstring) is now fit but will not be risked against Portsmouth. William Gallas (thigh) will not be back before Christmas, Thierry Henry (hamstring) and Abou Diaby (ankle) are out until the New Year. In addition Philippe Senderos, Gael Clichy and Emmanuel Eboue have all spent lengthy periods out of the side already this term. Meanwhile Lauren had not played at all until his 55-minute cameo in a behind closed-doors friendly this afternoon.

Portsmouth are the surprise package of the Premiership campaign. We are only two games from the midway point of the season yet Harry Redknapp’s early leaders are deservedly fourth just a point behind their opponents on Saturday.

“I feel you can underrate them a bit,” said Wenger. “They have a very dynamic team. I am especially impressed by the quality of their midfield. I have seen them many times and they are doing very, very well. Kanu is in the form of his life and Benjani is doing very well as well. I expect a very even game.”

Of course Kanu is one of three former Arsenal players heavily involved in the success story at Fratton Park. Sol Campbell is marshalling their defence and, of particular note, will be the presence of Tony Adams on the Portsmouth bench on Saturday as assistant manger.

The former Arsenal captain was a Highbury hero but, for an afternoon at least, he’ll be the enemy at Emirates.

“It's good to see Tony on the bench and starting to do this job,” said Wenger. “I am happy to see him doing so well. It will be funny because a lot of former red and white people will be there [for Portsmouth].”

The Arsenal manager must ensure they are left feeling blue on Saturday night. notas_de_prensa_archivo