THE importance of referees making the right decisions as the race for Champions League places hots up is further emphasised by this focus on the Highbury man in the middle Howard Webb by the Press Association's Mike McGrath . . .

HOWARD Webb will be in charge of Arsenal against Wanderers at Highbury, the return fixture of the clash which highlighted the frailties of Arsene Wenger's side earlier in the campaign.

The Trotters have beaten Arsenal twice this season - once in the league and once in the FA Cup - and both times used their physical power to dominate proceedings, taking advantage of a lightweight midfield assembled by Wenger.

" Especially in the first half, we were beaten on pace and challenges and paid for it," was Wenger's assessment after the Premiership defeat in December.

" It was a tentative and frail performance from us. We didn't create enough chances."

Wanderers 's approach has prompted a mixed response, with some unhappy with the direct approach that tends to unsettle even the most assured of defences in the league.

However, boss Sam Allardyce's tactics have proved successful and Wanderers will overtake Arsenal if they win at Highbury, with hopes of a Champions League place realistic if they maintain their form for the rest of the season.

With Wenger's squad nursing a host of injuries - Sol Campbell being the latest to be ruled out - Arsenal are expected to be inexperienced again, with their defence and midfield particularly short on numbers.

It means Webb's role as referee will be important, with Wanderers set to take the game to the hosts with their usual approach.

The South Yorkshire official was in charge of the December clash at the Reebok Stadium and booked three players, while six were cautioned in the FA Cup tie last month.

Since the opening day of the season - when he sent off Charlton's Darren Ambrose against Sunderland - Webb had not shown a red card until dismissing Michael Dawson during Tottenham's clash with Fulham last week.

With a reputation as a referee who lets the game flow, Webb will be tested at Highbury given the contrast in approach from both sides.

Allardyce, however, has clashed with Webb before, with the Wanderers boss unhappy after the defeat to Everton last season.

" The disappointment was the referee in major incidents," Allardyce said after Webb allowed Thomas Gravesen to retake a free-kick which led to a goal. It looked like he couldn't cope with the pressure and the mental side of the game."