Arsene Wenger has challenged Jose Antonio Reyes to rise to the challenge of replacing Thierry Henry in today's FA Cup semi-final after the Frenchman faced a spell on the sidelines.

Henry is definitely out of the game against Blackburn in Cardiff with a groin injury and is also likely to miss next week's clash against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

But while Lauren warned Reyes that he must cope with the physical side of the English game, Wenger believes this chance could help to convince the unsettled Spaniard that his future lies in England.

Henry's absence is nevertheless a major blow for Arsenal, who suffered when he was rested from the starting line-up in last season's semi-final defeat by Manchester United.

Reyes has endured considerable stick from defenders this season, adding to the homesickness which has made him consider a move back to Spain.

Wenger insisted: "I feel that Reyes was a target at one stage in England and he suffered from that. It took him some time to get over it as it looked like the word had gone out that you had to kick Arsenal. He was one of the players who could make a difference so that's why he was a target.

"But he's got over that now and, with Thierry absent, the semi-final is a good opportunity for him to show he can do it. It could help to convince him (to stay). It takes you time to adapt to the intense game of England but I am convinced once you move out of it, you miss it."

Lauren, who also came from Spain to join Arsenal, is hoping Reyes stays at the club but insists he must get used to the physical attention.

"It's normal that he's had to get used to the physical game here. He's a man, but it's difficult as he comes from a place which is completely different to England," he observed.

"I can't say anything to him about playing because he's got natural skills, but he needs to be a little bit more focused, be professional and show his personality.

"I want him to stay. I know he's a talented player and can make a difference."

Meanwhile, Blackburn midfielder Garry Flitcroft says their squad are ready for today's challenge. "The morale and team spirit are great and we go into the game full of confidence and hopeful we can get the result we want.

"We've a great chance, and you can see that by the way we are playing for each other. We don't want to miss out. We want to get through to this final. We're all going to be up for it - no motivation needed."

Flitcroft is fit despite requiring eight stitches in a gash down his left shin and should be part of an unchanged team following last Saturday's 3-0 win over Southampton, leaving Robbie Savage on the bench after his recovery from a groin injury.