Gunners closer to knock-out stages

Thierry Henry returned after a six-week absence with two goals yesterday to push Arsenal closer to the second round of the Champions League with a 2-0 victory at Sparta Prague. Henry had been missing from the Arsenal line-up since suffering an injury for France against the Republic of Ireland. The French International was initially on the bench, but made his comeback earlier than expected because of a 14th-minute injury to Jose Antonio Reyes. Henry scored the opening goal in the 20th minute and added the second 16 minutes from the end as Arsenal moved five points clear at the top of Group B. The second strike meant Henry beat Ian Wright's all-time scoring record for the Gunners of 185 goals. Arsenal are now as short as 8/1 to win the Champions League, although Ladbrokes aren't nearly as confident offering an industry best price 14/1. Chelsea are the bookies favourites across the board at 5/1, while Manchester United are quoted around the 12/1 mark after their disappointing draw against Lille. While the Gunners are able to win comfortable on the road in the Champions League, collecting three points on the domestic scene away from Highbury has proved troublesome, so much so that VC Bet have created a market on the next side that Arsenal will beat away in the Premiership. PR Manager Neal Wilkins commented "Arsenal have struggled to make an impact on their travels this season despite dominating the early stages of a number of those fixtures. They have a chance to set the record straight when they face arch rivals Tottenham at White Hart Lane on October 29". Tonight Chelsea are in action at home to Real Betis. The Premiership champions are overwhelming favourites to see of their opponents, although Jose Mourihno is wary of the threat Betis pose. Liverpool have a chance to maintain their good European form with a match against Anderlecht. The Belgium side have lost their last nine Champions League fixtures, although were unlucky to lose by the odd goal in their previous game. The Reds are by no means certain of three points, especially if they show any signs of their domestic form.