Arsenal Doubts for Cup Final

Last updated : 05 May 2005 By Gary Fish

Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger has reiterated that Thierry Henry is a doubt for the FA Cup final against Manchester United on May 21.

A scan on a groin injury last week showed no serious long-term problems, however when questioned on whether Henry would be a doubt for the final, he said: "Yes."

Another injury worry is winger Freddie Ljungberg: "They will slowly try to get back to training on Wednesday and see what progress we can make."

Henry will be lucky to feature again this season, and Wenger will not rush the influential Frenchman back, even if he will miss the season finale.

"He is very important to us but the first thing is health and, if we feel there is a risk, then we will not take it," said Wenger.

"He could be out for up to four weeks, but the good thing is he will not be out for three months.

"His injury is a sign that he has pushed his body far, so it's more of an alert than a bad injury.

"I think it's more that he has been over-used by the France national team between the seasons. At some stage, you have to slow down."

Arsenal and Manchester United will be looking to win in Cardiff, with the losers enduring the embarrassment of finishing the season trophyless.