• Champions League

Wenger confirms Nasri is in Arsenal squad

ESPN staff
February 15, 2011
Samir Nasri has been sensational for Arsenal this season © PA Photos
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Arsenal have been handed a huge fitness boost ahead of their Champions League clash against Barcelona after manager Arsene Wenger confirmed Samir Nasri has been included in his squad, although Abou Diaby misses the last-16 first-leg tie through injury.

Nasri has been out of action since suffering a hamstring strain in the Gunners' FA Cup win over Huddersfield at the end of January. However, he has returned to training ahead of schedule and Wenger has been assured by Arsenal's medical team that the French midfielder is fit to play at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.

"He's in the squad and the starting line-up will be decided tomorrow," he said. "I will take no medical risk [with him]. He's recovered quicker than expected. I said it would be 21 days but it will be only 17 days but everyone is absolutely adamant he is completely medically available and it is down to me to make the decision.

"Rosicky is available as well, he is in the squad. But there is no Diaby. He has a calf problem that he did against Brazil with the French national team."

Arsenal were dumped out of last season's competition at the quarter-final stage by Barcelona but Wenger is adamant his side have what it takes to get the better of the "best team in the world".

"It's one of the toughest tests," he said. "Barcelona at the moment are the best team in the world. If you knock Barcelona out you have straight away a good chance to win the competition. It is the toughest test in the European Cup, certainly.

"We have a good opportunity to show we are not anymore the team that played against them last year. We have the belief and strong togetherness to show that. I believe in my players, I believe 100% they have the quality to do it."

One player who should be full of confidence heading into Wednesday's clash is Robin van Persie, the Dutchman has been on fire since returning from an ankle injury and is in the middle of a red-hot patch in front of goal.

"I'm very happy because I've always been a fan of Robin," said Wenger. "I bought him at a time when not everyone was convinced and when he has been fit he has never disappointed me. I've always been very happy that he's here because he's a world class player.

"You exist in our job at the top, top level because you have specific qualities that belong to you. You survive at our level or you make your career at our level because it's you, you have your own qualities and Robin has exceptional qualities."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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