Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini hopes to shrug off a thigh injury.

Winger Tomas Rosicky (hamstring) could return but striker Robin van Persie (thigh) and defender Johan Djourou (groin) are still not match-fit.

Blackburn have Christopher Samba, David Dunn and Morten Gamst Pedersen banned, while Ryan Nelsen and Andre Ooijer (both hamstring) are doubts.

Aaron Mokoena could be available after Africa Cup of Nations duty and Steven Reid hopes to overcome a knee injury.