Arsenal new-boy Samri Nasri looks set to make his full debut in the Premier League opener against new boys West Brom tomorrow.

The £12million Frenchman missed Wednesday's Champions League qualifier against FC Twente because of a niggling thigh and knee complaint.

And the appearance of the former Marseille man will be a huge boost for manager Arsene Wenger, who was forced to play youngsters Aaron Ramsey, 17, and Denilson, 20, in central midfield roles against the Dutch minnows.

That is because first-choice pairing Cesc Fabregas (hamstring) or Abou Diaby (thigh) will not be available for the start of the new domestic season.

"They both gave a lot against Twente,” Wenger told Arsenal TV.

"The game on Saturday morning comes very quickly, but in fairness I am not in a position where I can make many changes at the moment.

"A reasonable target for Fabregas is the second leg of the Champions League game, but Diaby will take four to six weeks."

[Guardian-Series]

Subscribe to the post comments feeds or Leave a trackback