Manuel Almunia insists Arsenal will not wilt in the face of the famous Fenerbahce roar when they take on the Turkish side in Istanbul tonight.

The Spaniard will lead out the Gunners in Europe for the first time due to the absence of captain William Gallas and deputy Kolo Toure at the intimidating Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.

Fenerbahce have not lost in 15 European home matches in a run that stretches back to November 2004 and Almunia knows to expect a hostile reception.

He said: "Their team and their fans will try and put some pressure on us in the first 15 minutes."

"They will have the whole crowd behind them. But I think we are experienced enough to handle ourselves, play our football and we will be alright. But it will be crucial for us to get through the first 15 minutes."

Almunia, who was given the captaincy by boss Arsene Wenger for the second half of Saturday's 3-1 Premier League win over Everton, says he intends to lead by example.

He added: "I am very proud to wear the armband. I hope I can support my team from behind and command my defenders very well to get the points."