We travel to Italy minus 12 players, 13 if you include Samir Nasri. That seems quite a hefty amount of players missing, but the players who do travel are good enough to win this game. They aren't good enough to last the season at the top end, but nonetheless have enough about them to beat Udinese.
Last week at the Emirates, we got an early goal through Theo Walcott. Just what we needed. And just what we need tonight. An early goal will make it very difficult for the Italian side, who would then be needing three goals to progress.
We need all the experienced players to play tonight. Don't worry, I'm not demanding the recall of Sebastien Squillaci, who is hilariously marked down injured with a ''calf injury'' I would play Tomas Rosicky from the start, replacing Aaron Ramsey. I would bring in Alex Song to play alongside the impressive Emmanuel Frimpong. Now the Dench Man (Frimpong) has his first red card out the way, hopefully now the rush of blood to the head has calmed him down. His and Alex Song will provide a very strong base, and as Emmanuel Frimpong is very positionally disciplined, the blondilocks can venture further forward. Upfront, I'd pick the same three against Liverpool: Theo Walcott, Robin van Persie and Andrey Arshavin. They disappointed on Saturday, for sure. But they deserve the chance to get it right. And tonight, they will. At the back, I would move Bacary Sagna back to his favoured right back position, and bring in Armand Traore to play left back. His experience of playing in Italy could be useful. Johan Djourou will surely come in and partner Thomas Vermaelen. If not, I'd be happy with Ignasi Miquel.
I've left Gervinho on the bench, as I'd like to see what he can do as an impact player. I have a feeling he would start though, most likely in place of Theo Walcott.
Despite the injuries, still a fairly decent starting 11. And one which should triumph.
Tonight is a very important game, I hope the players are aware of this.
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