Elland RoadAfter a disappointing result the Emirates, Arsenal will be looking to bounce back and show that they are contenders for the FA Cup. With the worst of the fixture congestion now over Arsene should have no excuse of disposing the Championship side after they brushed aside a poor West Ham last weekend. However, with his focus still on the league Wenger is likely to rotate once more after making this tie more difficult than he would have liked it to be.

Arsenal are currently on a 5 match unbeaten run in the league whilst Leeds have not won in their last 4, so now would be the perfect time for the Gunners to capitalize on the form of their opponents. Let’s not forget though, that at this stage last season Leeds disposed Man Utd side that beat Arsenal convincingly last season. Whilst the London team is 22 places above their counterparts we have seen time and time again the ‘magic’ of the FA cup and with a strong fan base behind Leeds, Arsenal will need to be wary of the threat the West Yorkshire team pose. Leeds can also take inspiration from Ipswich’s grafting win against Arsenal last week

Arsenal are without shot stopper Lukasz Fabianksi which could be a good thing in the eyes of most Arsenal fans this season, particular with the young Szcznesy impressing in his absence. It is also worth noting that Szcznesy put in, not one but, two man of the match performances against Leeds whilst on loan last season. The van Persie of old looked to return against West Ham last weekend so Wenger will have to choose between RvP’s finesse and link-up play or Chamakh’s powerful physical presence and work rate. My guess, against a Championship side away from home, would be Chamakh.

Wenger will stick to his preferred 4-3-3 formation which he has rarely strayed from this season whilst Leeds are likely to pack the midfield and get men behind the ball once Arsenal are in possession. Leeds will try to expose the gunners on the counter attack will worked so well for Paul Jewell’s men in the Carling Cup.

Arsene will want a response from all of his players in terms of defensive discipline and work rate in comparison to the first fixture at the emirates with a more intimidating performance from Denilson, who was at fault for the penalty. His chances have been sparse this season and with the emergence of Jack Wilshere in the centre of the park Denilson will have to up his game if he is to have a future in North London. Now that Aaron Ramsey is back in contention after recovering from his broken leg, it is time for the Brazilian to repay the faith shown in him by Arsene Wenger. Leeds will also look to pick up where they left off with Bruce leading from the back in what was an impression performance at the Emirates stadium

Mike Dean will be officiating the game who has dished out the most yellow cards this season and leaves an average of 6 fouls per booking. He has also awarded the second most penalties this season with 6 spot kicks to his name

Possible line-up:

Szczęsny, Eboue Djourou Koscielny Gibbs, Denilson Rosicky Wilshere, Walcott Chamakh Arshavin



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