Home banker? Best not to be too complacent!

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Arsenal’s Eduardo is over the groin strain that made him a late withdrawal from the bench against Celtic but Theo Walcott still has a back problem.

Manager Arsene Wenger could field the same starting XI for the third consecutive match.
Portsmouth trio Steve Finnan, Hermann Hreidarsson and Papa Bouba Diop are all out with hamstring injuries, with the latter facing six weeks out.

Meanwhile, new signing Anti Niemi needs surgery on his elbow.

Arsenal
Suspended: None
Injured: Walcott (back), Djourou (knee), Rosicky (hamstring), Nasri (leg), Fabianski (knee)

Portsmouth
Suspended: None
Injured: Diop, Hreidarsson & Finnan (hamstring), Primus (ankle) (BBC Sport)

After our first two fine performances it would be understandable for Gunners fans to think this is a gimme of a game but it’s best not to get too cocky even though we are up against a side who appear to be on the precipice of financial ruin and a likely relegation dog fight.

We still have the usual list of long term injured and Walcott it seems is still not 100%. Hopefully Gallas and Vermaelen will continue their fine partnership at the heart of the defence and all being well we should be able to begin our home campaign with a solid display.

Prediction: 2-0 to the Gunners

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