Howe & Spicer Boost

Both Arsenal and Portsmouth have given the all clear for John Spicer and Eddie Howe (respectively) to play for AFC Bournemouth against Premiership Blackburn Rovers in Wednesday evening's Carling Cup Second Round match at Ewood Park.

This makes a contrast from Portsmouth a few weeks ago when they first agreed to Howe's inclusion in the squad to face Leyton Orient, and then withdrew their permission late in the day.

This time Eddie has been given the all clear, as has Spicer.