Without Song we don’t have a prayer.
Well, not quite but close. He was the one player in Barca’s feverish swamp that remained busy trying to disrupt their attack. At their back trying to peck the ball away with his long legs. He reminded me of a trapping basketballer trying to stop Kobe Bryant off the dribble. When Gallas was injured he relocated to the center back position with Abou Diaby moving up to holding midfielder.
Diaby and Denilson will most likely be pressed into service to center of midfield with both having doubtful holding qualities. It is remarkable how Diaby gets easily dispossessed of the ball. He was a step slower and his passing was awry. Denilson is no passer either but he did have a decent game against Barca. This is the part of the midfield where we should at least try and fight to get 40% of the possession which would be a boon because with Barca they will get their usual 60% or more.
To make matters worse, Sol Campbell is doubtful too. Which means that Mikael Silvestre might make the trip. The Barca attack just got a nice big center channel to goal. Messi and Xavi should be able to impose their will. The other area is down the right flank with Dani Alves roaming at will against Clichy.
A 4-2-3-1 with Nasri behind Bendtner and Rosicky to his left and Walcott on the right. I do hope Sol is cleared and he will pair Vermaelen at center with Sagna on his usual right and Clichy to the left.