Forgotten men Eboue and Traore make squad today

Samir Nasri’s injury earlier today is indeed a big blow but will be softened by others who were waiting on the flanks to get their call.

Emmanuel Eboue and Armand Traore are just a sample of potential profitors of Nasri’s absence.

The former is not a free agent as suggested by the media. The Ivorian did see his initial contract run out following the season’s closure but as we reported in March, the 25-year-old had already been tied up on a long-term contract.

Eboue has been named as a starter for the preseason encounter with SC Columbia in Austria at this hour and will be keen to re-affirm his place in Wenger’s plans.

Armand Traore – who recently returned from a beneficial stint at Portsmouth – has been named on the bench today.

The promising French youngster is now back involved with Arsenal’s first choices after doubts over his future during his impressive spell at the South Coast.