Arsenal face Blackpool at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, looking to get back to winning ways after a frustrating draw against Crystal Palace.
It’s time for the round-of-16 in the League Cup, and Unai Emery’s side will take on lower league opposition once again. After Manchester United and Liverpool went out in the last round, this competition is already looking a bit more enticing, particularly as Manchester City and Spurs have Premier League ties right after playing each other on Monday.
With Chelsea taking on Frank Lampard’s Derby as well, who knocked United out last time around, who knows which of the big-six clubs will still be in the competition by Friday morning?
Emery will also be trying to build some confidence ahead of the Liverpool match this weekend. As a result, we expect Arsenal to start a strong side against Blackpool, whilst also rotating as much as possible.
Let’s have a look at our predicted lineup.
3Forwards
Danny Welbeck and Henrikh Mkhitaryan should return to the side, after sitting on the bench over the weekend. Welbeck’s been particularly impressive in matches he’s started this season, with four goals and one assist in five starts. He scored twice in the last round against Brentford.
For the third spot, we’re going to gamble on Emile Smith Rowe getting an opportunity. Iwobi, Aubameyang and Lacazette will presumably be rested for the weekend, leaving an opening for a youth player.
Eddie Nketiah is the other possible option, but Smith Rowe seems to be the player favoured by Emery right now. The midfielder turned wide-forward also started in the last round.
Click ‘Next’ for our full predicted starting XI