Arsenal are out to overturn their 1-0 first-leg trailing and eliminate UEFA Champions League holders Manchester United from the semis in a crunch encounter at Emirates Stadium. According to their boss Arsene Wenger, the Gunners have what it takes to upset their Premiership rivals, who boast a 25-match unbeaten run in the competition so far. Moreover, the Red Devils have kept clean sheets throughout their last seven away games. "There is no mission impossible for us. It wouldn't change my belief even if they scored," said the Frenchman.
"I am very confident that the team will produce a magnificent performance and that we will qualify. "We are playing a home game where we have a very strong record in the Champions League. For many people we are outsiders but I believe we can do it." Resembling their opponents, Arsenal have not conceded a single goal at home so far in this season's Champions League as they're unbeaten in 24 matches in the competition. But United boss Alex Ferguson is relishing the prospect of beating Manuel Almunia in London despite his side's advantage.
United are unbeaten in 25 Champions League games so far, Arsenal are unbeaten in 24. "We have to go there with the intent of trying to score. I think we need to score, and that would be a big advantage to us if we did – Arsenal would then have to score three," he said. "We have got a lead and we are only one kick away from Rome, it is a big incentive for us." Team News Arsenal welcome back Robin van Persie from a groin injury, but Wenger will decide whether to start with the Dutchman beside Emmanuel Adebayor, or opt for the in-form Nicklas Bendtner upfront.
Arsenal conceded no goals at home in this season's competition, United grabbed seven away clean sheets in a row. Former United defender Mikael Silvestre is doubtful with a groin problem, whilst William Gallas and Gael Clichy are ruled out. United skipper Rio Ferdinand is expected to be fit after sitting out the weekend's win at Middlesbrough with a minor rib injury. Cristiano Ronaldo, Michael Carrick and Edwin van der Sar are also set to regain their places after being rested at the Riverside.
