Arsenal forward Theo Walcott is confident the Euro 2012 qualifiers can mark a new start for England.

Theo Walcott claims his hot start to the season was helped by having the summer off, but refused to be drawn on whether he might have helped England had he been included in the World Cup squad.

Werder Bremen have finalised a deal for former Arsenal and Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre on a free transfer.

Arsene Wenger said his side had to shrug off an attack of nerves before goals from Theo Walcott and Andrey Arshavin saw them past battling Blackburn at Ewood Park.

Arsenal will have midfielder Denilson back in the squad for the trip to Blackburn after an abdominal injury.

Defender Sebastien Squillaci admits he found it “practically impossible” to turn down fellow Frenchman and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

Tomas Rosicky reckons the best way for Theo Walcott to maintain his hat-trick-scoring form for Arsenal is by continuing to ignore his critics.

Arsenal have included captain Cesc Fabregas, striker Robin van Persie, midfielder Alex Song and defender Johan Djourou in the squad for the visit of Blackpool.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will take a long-term view on World Cup winner Cesc Fabregas and runner-up Robin van Persie rather than thrust the duo into full-blown Barclays Premier League action too soon.

Arsenal legend David Seaman feels signing Australian goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer could be the difference between success and another season of failure for the Gunners.