Paper Talk: Jewell's ready for Gunners

Last updated : 18 November 2005 By Wigan Evening Post
... when the Gunners arrive at the JJB for a Saturday lunchtime showdown (kick-off 12.45pm).

And he has called on the Wigan fans to get vociferous and roar his high-fliers to victory against a side that has yet to win on its Premiership travels this season.

Jewell said: "Arsenal have got some great players and we know we're in for a tough game.

"But make no mistake, we don't fear them and we believe we can win this game.

"At the same time though, we have to be realistic because we'll be coming up against some of the best players in the world."

Not surprisingly, Jewell believes France ace Thierry Henry poses the major threat.

He said: "Thierry Henry is one of the best players I have ever seen. He can turn a game on his own.

"He's not a conventional centre-forward. He drifts wide on both flanks, comes deep to get the ball and will run at you all day.

"He's also one of the best finishers around. But we've got the best defensive record in the Premiership and one of the best in Europe."

Jewell has called for some highly partisan support from the 20,000 home fans in a capacity crowd.

"Our fans have a big part to play on Saturday.

"It's a sell-out and we need our supporters to generate the best atmosphere possible.

"One of the first things Arsenal will do is to try and silence the crowd.

"But our supporters have been magnificent and we need them to be with us again."

On the injury front, David Connolly is still recovering from a hamstring strain, but everyone else is available.

Jewell added: "I've got the highest respect for Arsene Wenger and what he's achieved since he took over at Arsenal nine years ago.

"His team play fast, attacking football and are a pleasure to watch.

"But like all great teams, their success is down to hard work and we will have to match them if we're going to win."

Meanwhile, Wenger has been complimentary about Latics ahead of Saturday.

Wenger said: "We are fully aware we have a difficult game at Wigan.

"Enough games have been played this season to think their league position can't be a coincidence.

"They must have the quality to be there after 10 games and that's why I say it's a big game for us.

"They especially have power and pace up front and that's why they can get away on counter-attacks and score goals."