Dowie targets soft centre

English FA Premiership: Kolo Toure returns after a three-match suspension to bolster Arsenal's defence for tonight's game against…

English FA Premiership: Kolo Toure returns after a three-match suspension to bolster Arsenal's defence for tonight's game against Crystal Palace at Highbury.

With Sol Campbell still out with an ankle injury, Toure's return is timely to partner Pascal Cygan in central defence.

Robin van Persie is back in the squad and Edu should be fit despite a slight ankle knock sustained in training last Friday.

But Crystal Palace manager Iain Dowie hopes his side might just be able to make the most of Arsenal's "soft centre".

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While Dowie admits it is an area in which his men will be looking to put the home side under pressure, he knows the Eagles must first ensure they are able to retain the ball in order to exploit any potential weakness.

"It's a St Valentine's Day box of chocolates, one that I am going to enjoy and I hope that when I unwrap it it has got a soft centre," quipped the Palace manager. "(Arsenal's defence) will be an area people have looked at.

"With Sol Campbell, it is a great deal more commanding. Sol will miss out, so there is a question."

Meanwhile, Thierry Henry has underlined Arsene Wenger's belief in loyalty by insisting he wants to finish his career at Highbury. The 27-year-old will be 29 when his current contract expires, but remains adamant he will stay at Highbury unless he is no longer wanted by the club.

"I would like to stay here, but it is up to the people involved. If it was only up to me, no problem, but we all know how it is in football. If you stop scoring goals, someone young can come along and kick you out.

"But I have no desire to play abroad. I'm just passionate about the game and my team."