Wenger's Silvinho plea fails

Arsene Wenger today failed to persuade Brazil to release fullback Silvinho for Arsenal's Champions League clash with Spartak Moscow tomorrow.

Silvinho missed the 3-0 win over West Ham on Saturday because he was playing for his country against the United States in California. Brazil want to keep him for Wednesday's match against Mexico.

But an injury to Ashley Cole means Arsenal have problems at left-back for the Highbury match against the Russians.

Arsenal must beat Spartak to avoid having to win their final group game against Bayern Munich in Germany to reach the Champions League quarter-finals. The Arsenal manager asked Brazil to let Silvinho return early but they refused.

Wenger said: "What makes it worse as far as I am concerned is that it is very unfair of the Brazilian Football Federation because Roberto Carlos and Rivaldo were in Spain on Saturday night and played in the match between Real Madrid and Barcelona. But we were without Silvinho."

Wenger's concern was eased today when Cole's ankle problem appeared to respond to treatment. If Cole is ruled out, Wenger will turn to the versatile Nelson Vivas.

Wenger faces more international problems for Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final. Arsenal face either Bolton or Blackburn, who play on Wednesday, but striker Nwankwo Kanu will be absent because he is wanted by Nigeria.

Another worry for Arsenal is that Sylvain Wiltord, who scored a hat-trick against West Ham, has an ear infection and was a doubt for tomorrow's European tie.

Meanwhile, First Division leaders Fulham today warned Luis Boa Morte about his behaviour after he earned a red card in yesterday's 1-1 draw with second-placed Bolton.

He was sent off for spitting in opponent Robbie Elliott's face. Assistant manager Christian Damiano said: "Luis needs to play with more control."