Arsenal are coming off a huge win against Manchester United. Mikel Arteta got his first win as manager and Arsenal played as well as they have all season. The Gunners looked exhausted after playing three matches in a week. They may take this as a chance to get their key players some rest.
Leeds United are flying in the Championship. They are top of the league on goal difference and are nine points ahead of the playoff spots. Promotion is the priority for Leeds, but they may see a cup run as a possibility. Arsenal have struggled this season and may not put out their strongest side. It’s a real opportunity for Leeds to go through to the fourth round.
Team News
Arsenal will be without Calum Chambers and Kieran Tierney with long term injuries, while Hector Bellerin and Gabriel Martinelli will have late fitness tests, according to PremierInjuries.com.
Leeds will miss Pablo Hernandez through injury as well as Eddie Nketiah and Jack Clarke due to their loans ending, according to football.london.
Key Players
Arsenal: Reiss Nelson
Nelson had an impressive loan spell at Hoffenheim last season, but has failed to nail down a place under Unai Emery. He has appeared in Arsenal’s last four matches with mixed results. His link up play has been solid, but he hasn’t scored, assisted or created many chances. He’ll look to show some end product against a lower level opponent.
Leeds United: Jack Harrison
Harrison has been one of the key players in Leeds fantastic season. The 23-year-old leads the team in assists and is second in goals. The Gunners have played better since Arteta took over, but they still have some questionable defensive personnel. Harrison could take advantage of that and send Leeds through.
Prediction
Predicting cup matches is always difficult due to the unpredictability of the lineups. Arsenal have the home advantage and the general talent advantage, so they seem like a reasonable pick.
Prediction: 2-1 Arsenal
