Arsenal face major injury problems ahead of Porto clash

Arshavin has joined the list of absentees (GETTY IMAGES)

Arsenal are without five first-team regulars for the Champions League trip to Porto.

Defender William Gallas (back), midfielder Alex Song (knee) and Andrey Arshavin (hamstring) were all absent from the 18-man squad which left Luton Airport this afternoon, as were goalkeeper Manuel Almunia and striker Eduardo (hamstring).

Veteran former captain Sol Campbell could be set for a first European appearance for the Gunners since the 2006 Champions League final defeat by Barcelona in Paris, while forward Carlos Vela returns from a knee injury.

Robin van Persie (ankle) and Johan Djourou (knee) are both long-term absentees.

Team (from): Fabianski, Clichy, Vermaelen, Campbell, Eboue, Nasri, Denilson, Fabregas, Diaby, Walcott, Bendtner, Mannone, Sagna, Silvestre, Traore, Vela, Ramsey, Rosicky.