The magic of the FA Cup return this weekend as Arsenal faces Championship side Blackburn Rovers. FA cup ties are always a treat to watch and especially playing against lower league teams you never know what’s coming your way. Liverpool V Oldham, Luton V Norwich, Leeds V Tottenham are a few examples so far this season.
Looking at the competition from Arsenal ‘s perspective, the FA Cup is their last chance to win a silverware this season. Looking at the league table, reaching 4th place is in itself equal to winning a trophy and a certain German team are standing in their way to progressing in Europe. Historically, Arsenal are very good at winning the FA Cup, and they need to have a bit of that luck coming into the game against Blackburn.
There is no doubt that Arsenal have what it takes to win the game, but the same thought was there when they face Bradford in the League Cup. So Arsene for once should give this competition the attention and seriousness it deserves.
In terms of injuries, there is a lot of positive news from the training camp. It is beleived that captain Vermaelen along with Wilshere and Koscielny are recovering faster than expected. However, Wenger is expected to rest all of them even if they recover on time. Considering the crunch tie with Bayern Munich next Wednesday, the line-up against Blackburn is expected to feature a blend of experience and youth.
Spanish duo needs a much deserved rest against Blackburn
The likes of Walcott, Cazorla, Podolski and Arteta will be rested to make way for players like Diaby, Ox, Rosicky and Ramsey. As it stands Sagna, Monreal and Mertesacker are the three established defenders available for selection, the remaining one slot can be filled in either with Ignasi Miguel or academy product Bellerin as Jenkinson will miss out on the game due to his ban for the red card he received at the Stadium of lights.
We might also see Fabianski, Squillaci, Arshavin, and Gervinho in the mix. A win could not only mean Arsenal are still in the hunt for a trophy, but it will also give some much needed confidence for the Champions league clash that lurks around the corner.
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