ANCHOR MAN SONG'S A BIG HIT WITH ARSENE.

ARSENE Wenger was always confident in Alex Song's ability, with the Cameroon international likely to again be deployed as Arsenal's midfield anchor in their Champions League second leg tie against Celtic.

Much had been made of a need for the Gunners to bring in an experienced defensive partner for playmaker Cesc Fabregas.

However, Arsenal have impressed in the opening games of the new season, when their captain has been flanked by Song and young Brazilian Denilson.

Song signed permanently in June 2006 and Wenger allowed the youngster, 22 next month, to spend some time getting firstteam football with Charlton, before returning to stake his claim for a regular place in the Arsenal side.

"I was always confident Song would pop up in this position, or at centre-back," said the Gunners boss. "I brought him here aged 17 and worked very hard with him, because I felt he had the talent to become a good player."

Arsenal will defend a 2-0 lead from the first leg at Celtic Park, where they were perhaps somewhat fortunate in front of goal.

Wenger, though, knows there is work still to be done before the Gunners can be sure of the pounds 30million Champions League group stages jackpot.

"The tie is not safe," he said. "We know the job has to be finished, but we are still in a strong position."