Arsenal started life after Cesc Fabregas with a slender victory over Udinese in the Champions League qualifier first leg at Emirates Stadium.

Theo Walcott's early goal ultimately proved decisive - but Francesco Guidolin's Serie A side deserved at least a draw for their enterprise and will pose a real danger in the return in Italy next Wednesday.

Arsenal, with Fabregas finally reunited with Barcelona and stripped of injured Jack Wilshere, lacked their usual craft and the lively Gervinho was often forced to fight a lone battle up front with newly-appointed captain Robin van Persie suspended.

And Udinese almost took advantage of a disjointed display as they came close to scoring an away goal on several occasions, with veteran skipper Antonio di Natale a constant threat to the Gunners' defence.

Arsenal were fortunate when he hit the woodwork twice in the first half and brought an athletic stop from keeper Wojciech Szczesny, who also saved well from Pablo Armero in the first half, late on as Arsenal were forced to suffer to protect their narrow advantage.

Walcott almost added a second in injury time only to see his close-range shot brilliantly saved by Udinese keeper Samir Handanovic, but such a margin would have been cruel on the Italians.