Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger says Samir Nasri has a big role to play against Champions League opponents Porto.

With Fabregas out, France international Nasri could move into the centre of midfield, alongside Cameroon defensive midfielder Alex Song, whose domestic two-match ban does not apply in Europe.

Wenger feels the 22-year-old - who suffered a fractured leg in pre-season - has come a long way since arriving from Marseille during the summer of 2008.

"In the last few weeks he has got stronger and more confident," said the Arsenal boss.

"He is very versatile, can play defensive midfield, attacking midfield and on the flanks.

"We have a few players like that and I love that.

"Samir has adapted very quickly. He is a very intelligent boy, a quiet boy, he analyses what is happening on the pitch very quickly and has good technical potential."