An ever-changing defence has damaged Blackburn's bid for European football, manager Mark Hughes has admitted.

Captain Ryan Nelsen has been struggling with a hamstring injury for most of the season and for Monday night's trip to Arsenal fellow centre-back Christopher Samba is suspended, while Andre Ooijer (hamstring) is also a doubt.

After a promising start to the season a difficult run in November and December halted their progress but they are now unbeaten in seven Barclays Premier League matches as the team has learned to adapt to the many switches in defence.

"It has been difficult. We've had to make changes, we've had people suspended and injured and it hasn't been a settled defence," said Hughes.

"It is very hard to get an unbeaten run going when there are a lot of changes, certainly in the back four.

"But we've been able to do it for seven games. We are hoping it is going to be eight; it will be difficult but we'll be giving our best shot."

After the trip to Emirates Stadium, Rovers - who are no longer involved in the FA Cup - have nearly a fortnight before they are in action again at home to Bolton on February 23.

Hughes, in line with previous seasons, has opted to take the squad away for a break, with Orlando in Florida the preferred destination.

"We do try to do it every year because we believe it does have a positive effect," he said.

"It's a long old season so it can help if you can get away."

Samba, David Dunn and Morten Gamst Pedersen must all serve suspensions tonight, while injuries could prevent Ooijer and Steven Reid playing with Nelsen still ruled out.

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