Arsene Wenger has a huge squad to choose from this Saturday and with little need to rotate right now after a weeks rest from the 1-0 win at Burnley, the Frenchman has some difficult decisions to make.
The team news is also rosy with Jack Wilshere back in the mix, however Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is still two weeks away and Mikel Arteta lacking match fitness.
Wojciech Szczesny is a confirmed starter, with the Gunners boss looking to keep his goalkeepers competitive and maintain match sharpness. The trip to Wembley provides the Pole with an opportunity to play at least one more fixture this season.
At the back we can expect to see the return of Mathieu Debuchy at the expense of the brilliant Hector Bellerin who will likely play second fiddle to the Frenchman for the remainder of the campaign. Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny get the nod at centre back to maintain stability. Gabriel could of course come in but Wenger may look to keep continuity in the centre of the defence with two fresh full backs either side. Kieran Gibbs gets a rare run out on the left.
In midfield Francis Coquelin gets the nod in the deep lying role with Aaron Ramsey and Santi Cazorla ahead. Wenger could look to continue Ramsey on the right as in recent weeks but this is our best formation at present.
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This means Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez on either wing and more bench time for Theo Walcott. The Englishman will be involved however especially if the Gunners can establish a solid lead. But at present do you start the pacy winger over Alexis, Ozil, Ramsey or Danny Welbeck? Not sure you do. He can do some damage though and will hope to be involved in proceedings.
Up front Olivier Giroud makes way in our lineup for Welbeck to lead the line. The former Manchester United frontman did the business in the last round albeit a slightly fortunate goal but he was rewarded for his high work rate and determination during that game.
Although Giroud doesn’t necessarily need a rest, Welbeck’s pace will stretch Reading’s defence and always have them on the back foot.
Here is our predicted lineup:
Do you agree Gooners? Share your thoughts below..
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