Team News: Arsenal v Middlesbrough

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Date	Time	C	Opponent	F	A	R	S
09 Sep	3:00 PM	P	Middlesbrough (H)	1	1	Draw

Arsène Wenger has revealed that William Gallas will make his Arsenal debut in the left-back position against Middlesbrough tomorrow.

The manager admits that the left side of defence is not the right position for Justin Hoyte, and, rather harshly in my opinion, claims that Mathieu Flamini 'is not comfortable there at all'. Sure, it's not his position, but I'd say I'm not the only person in Europe convinced by his performances there last season, part of a defence that broke records in the Champions League. Never mind.

The boss also revealed that Johan Djourou is fine, and will continue alongside Kolo Touré in central defence.

"We have no injury problems," said Wenger. "Djourou is OK and William will play at left back.

"He does not care where he plays, he has said that many times before, and at the moment we do not have a left back available.

"Justin Hoyte is not a left back, Flamini is not comfortable there at all. We have a problem so he plays there."

Wenger did hint, though, that Gallas' long term future may be in the centre of defence.

"William's best position is centre back. He can play either side but if you ask him he will tell you his best position is centre back.

"But we are short at the back and on the left especially at the moment."

Julio Baptista will also be in the squad, but Theo Walcott is rested after his England Under-21 exploits in midweek.

User Comments

Mark

Posted on 10 Sep, 2006 at 01:50 AM - Reply

I don't recall ever having expressed poor opinions of Flamini, always been something of a fan.

Although there are many gooners who never really gave him a chance so there could be a few people you've gotten me confused with. Heh.

Leeroy Jenkins.

Posted on 8 Sep, 2006 at 06:51 PM - Reply

Nice to see your opinion on Flamini has changed, compared to what it was early last season.

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