Fear the Wounded Animal

On the eve of the biggest match of the season, Arsenal fans everywhere have plenty to worry about. As the resident Gooner, I am a bit apprehensive about the return leg at the Camp Nou. But I believe this team can make history, a dangerous squad that is capable of pulling off something special.
Arsenal come into this match missing the entire spine of the team, straight up the middle. Our most experienced CB in Gallas, Song and Fabregas in the middle of the park, and Arshavin and Van Persie up front. Take that much quality out of any big side and it is hard to expect to get any type of result in a big match.
A full strength Arsenal squad wouldn't be expected to walk out of Barcelona with a victory, now most would think they have a snowball's chance in Hell. Up until recently, I would agree with this assessment. This squad has come along in leaps and bounds this season and has shown the grit and resolve to get the result. As frustrating as the Wolves match was this weekend, they got the goal, and more importantly the result. Recent performances against the likes of Stoke and Hull go further to demonstrate that quality that everyone tends to praise Man United for in recent years, to grind out a result and win matches even when not at their best.
Barcelona should progress through this tie, but need to be wary of the danger Arsenal possess.
The Gunners have traveled to Barcelona with hope, but not expectation(outside of their squad at least). I have spent the past few days listening to pundits write them off and who knows, maybe they are right and Barca will have their way with them. But one would be foolish to neglect the danger they pose to Barca's dream of repeat Champion's League glory.
The squad must know that everyone has written them off and the effect that could have may be massive. It should give them the freedom to go and chase the game, take it too Barcelona and give them a run for their money. I believe that the Arseblogger said it best, go out there and make yourself Arsenal legends. There is nothing for them to lose and the match is their's for the taking. Barca will be missing important players as well and I believe their back line will be very susceptible to pace and I have the utmost faith that Arsenal can get goals in this match, the real question being as to whether they can keep them out...

For this dream to be realized, the team must have a massive performance from everyone, with these players being the key to our chances:

1. Samir Nasri


Wenger has already stated that he will be slotting in for Cesc and hopefully he can have another inspired performance in the middle of the park similar to the Porto match. His eye for the pass and inspiration on the ball will be key for the Gunners to have any chance.

2. Thomas Vermaelen


Our rock at the back. The best signing in the premier league this season. I dare you to find better. His tenacity and drive will keep his teammates up. It wouldnt surprise me if he were to score tomorrow, it would be fitting and deserved. Thomas encapsulates everything you want to see in your team, and hopefully he can take another step towards legendary status with a performance for the ages.

3. Theo Walcott


With the Barcelona defense lacking several first choice options at the back his pace should terrorize Maxwell and whoever lines up in the center of defense all day. Guardiola has already identified him as a danger man and hopefully he can have a performance reminiscent of his showing against Burnley last month.

4. Nicklas Bendtner


Our only fully fit center forward will be key to our success. Let's hope his profligacy in front of goal has been left on the plane and that whatever pink or yellow boots he wears are his shooting ones. Although he is often guilty of bad misses, he has been popping up recently with big goals, last minutes winners against Hull and Wolves. Although i didn't think he had a great game against Barca last week, a lot of his team play gets overlooked. He assisted Theo's opener with a great slide-rule pass and set up Cesc for the penalty opportunity. Hopefully after this match hr can finally discard the Barn-door Bendtner form and earn the much better Big Game Bendtner label he would prefer.

I will be disappointed with a loss tomorrow but as long as they show the spirit and fight of true contenders I will be happy with the boys. More mesmerizing football hopefully in store for us in merely hours. The stage has been set for another footballing spectacle, and I for one believe they will deliver. Come on you Reds!