Old foes set to do battle again

Michael Hart13 April 2012

The long-standing rivalry between Alan Shearer and Tony Adams could emerge as a key element when Newcastle and Arsenal meet at Highbury tomorrow to decide who progresses to the FA Cup semi-finals.

The two former England captains will be plunged into a head-to-head battle as Adams was today declared fit to make only his second appearance since undergoing foot surgery last September.

After the bitter disappointment of their Champions League exit in Turin, Adams will lift Arsenal spirits as manager Arsene Wenger focuses his attention on the domestic Double.

The pair's rivalry in earlier days led to the dismissal of Adams in a top-of-the-table clash at St James' Park shortly after Wenger took control in 1996.

But Arsenal need the experience and reassurance of Adams in tomorrow's quarter-final replay and Newcastle, held to a 1-1 draw a fortnight ago, realise that much will depend on how Wenger's men respond to the disappointment of their latest European defeat.

"It can go one of two ways," said Shearer today. "A defeat like that can make a team more determined or it can make a big dent in your confidence."

When Newcastle won 3-1 at Highbury in December, Arsenal responded with an 18- match unbeaten run. The game was also something of a turning point for Newcastle - and Shearer.

The former England captain scored the first Highbury goal of his career and Newcastle ended a run of 29 first-team games in London without a win. Since then they've also beaten Tottenham 3-1 at White Hart Lane.

"Psychologically, I think that win at Highbury was important for us," said Shearer. "Now we know we can go there and win.

"We know we face a tough match. Arsenal play very narrow when the opposition has the ball but when they win it back they play a wide game with people like Pires, Parlour and Wiltord. We have to stay tight and compact. I believe that the winners tomorrow will go on to win the Cup."

There is also the small matter of Shearer wanting to avenge defeat to Adams' Arsenal in the 1998 FA Cup Final.

Newcastle manager Bobby Robson has Craig Bellamy ruled out with a knee injury, Jermaine Jenas is cup-tied and Gary Speed and Kieron Dyer face late fitness tests.

Arsenal are without suspended Thierry Henry and Robson said: "He's the jewel in their crown but he can't hurt us in the dug-out."

Also missing are Martin Keown, Francis Jeffers and Ray Parlour - all injured - while Igors Stepanovs is a major doubt after hurting his hip at Aston Villa last Sunday.

Lauren, who suffered a knock against Juventus, is also a doubt but Ashley Cole and Edu are fit for selection.

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