Wenger reveals RVP boost

20110401

Gunners boss confirms Almunia to start against Blackburn

Last updated: 1st April 2011  

Almunia: Set to start

Van Persie: Shakes off knock

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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Robin van Persie will be in the squad to face Blackburn at the weekend.

The Gunners will be looking to get their Premier League title challenge back on track when Rovers visit the Emirates, and they have been boosted by the news that their Dutch striker is fit to feature.

Van Persie returned from the international break with a minor knee problem he suffered during Tuesday’s 5-3 win over Hungary, but initial fears have improved.

Wenger said: “He’s all right. He will be in the squad.

“He had a kick on his knee and he had a test this morning – if there is no reaction overnight he should be okay.

“I’m an optimist so there is always the hope that it will not be too severe. That was the case, for once we had good news.

“It’s the final part of the season, losing a player now is basically like losing them for the rest of the season.

“We are in the final sprint for the championship so you want all your players available.

“What will decide it will be our performances until the end of the season and therefore you want your key players.”

Returns

Meanwhile, the French coach also confirmed that Abou Diaby, Cesc Fabregas, Alex Song and Theo Walcott will all be in contention for a place in the side.

One player who will definitely be in the starting line-up is goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, despite a horrendous blunder during the last game at West Brom, which they drew 2-2.

With Jens Lehmann waiting in the wings having signed a short-term deal until the end of the season, speculation had grown that the German could have come into the side for Almunia.

However, with injuries to other keepers higher in the pecking order, Wenger will stick with the 33-year-old Spaniard for the home clash.

Arsenal v Blackburn. Click here to bet.

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