Arsenal FC: 6 Danger Men to the Gunners in the Champions League Group Stages
Arsenal have drawn a tricky collection of teams in group H of the Uefa Champions League. The Gunners will face Borussia Dortmund, Marseille and Olympiakos.
After the euphoria of last night's resolute victory over Udinese, Arsenal must now prepare to negotiate a tough looking group.
Dortmund are the reigning Bundesliga champions and Olympiakos clinched the Greek Super League in emphatic fashion.
Marseille are a strong and combative unit who have plenty of European experience and will be a difficult obstacle for Arsenal to overcome.
If Arsenal are to progress out of group H, these are the six players they will have to work hard to shackle.
3. Borussia Dortmund: Mario Goetze and Shinji Kagawa
1 of 3Mario Goetze is the crown jewel of Borussia Dortmund's impressive squad. The young attacking midfielder is one of the most coveted talents in the world game.
Goetze is the ideal link player between the midfield and forward lines. Blessed with superb technique and natural creative instincts, Goetze is a constant threat to expose the gaps in any defense.
Alex Song will have to work hard keep track of Goetze and prevent him from finding the freedom to exert his influence.
Shinji Kagawa is another rising star whose intricate ball skills and devilish speed will force Arsenal's back four to maintain concentration and composure.
Kagawa will interchange with Goetze and also target the flanks. Bacary Sagna will be key in subduing the Japanese ace and will need the support of Arsenal's wide forwards to supplement his efforts.
2. Marseille: Andre Ayew and Mathieu Valbuena
2 of 3Arsenal have been linked with moves for both Andre Ayew and Mathieu Valbuena during this summer's transfer window. The Gunners now face the daunting prospect of repelling the dangerous duo.
Ayew is perhaps Marseille's biggest threat. A cerebral winger, Ayew utilises flair with a devastating combination of pace and power.
Strength and speed have frequently victimised Asenal's hesitant brand of defending. The Gunners will have to be decisive and smart in marshaling the dangerous Ghana international.
Valbuena's quick feet and powerful shot make the diminutive attacking midfielder a threat to score whenever he collects the ball.
A wise policy for Arsenal would be to force Valbuena out wide. The defense must eliminate his opportunities to shoot.
3. Olympiakos: Marko Pantelic and Albert Riera
3 of 3Savvy and mobile veteran striker Marko Pantelic will provide the greatest danger to Arsenal during their two matches with the Greek giants.
The former Ajax front man has excellent movement and is a sharp finisher. Thomas Vermaelen will be key to controlling Pantelic.
The Serbian's prowess in the air cannot be underestimated and shadowing his clever runs will be crucial for Vermaelen.
Arsenal fans may not consider facing former Liverpool flop Albert Riera a particularly daunting task. But the Spanish winger is a capable wide attacker when on form.
Riera can deliver an excellent cross and could link up well with Pantelic to expose one of Arsenal's most frequent failings. He can also chip in with goals from some well-timed runs and the Gunners cannot afford to overlook the rejuvenated Spaniard.
Arsenal has drawn an awkward looking group. They face experienced and determined squads offering plenty of quality.
All three away fixtures will send Arsene Wenger's crop of youngsters to intimidating venues. Arsenal's starlets will be forced to grow up fast and prove their strength and depth.
