20 Feb 2017 11:50:00
Given the cup draw yesterday I think Wenger and the team really need to this match v Sutton seriously. Home tie v Lincoln would be very winable, one of Chelsea/ United will be going out and City have a tough away tie v Boro. Not only this but losing tonight (or even a draw tbh) would be a massive embarrassment. No disrespect at all to Sutton United, but given the weeks we've had since losing to Watford, Chelsea and Bayern we need this win as an FA Cup trophy could be the thing that shows Ozil, Sanchez etc that we are competitive and can still win trophies. I know a lot of you will disagree but given how strong our league opposition are this season and our poor form since the new year, finishing either 3rd/ 4th and winning the FA Cup would make it a successful season in my eyes. Obviously given our form in early December before the Everton game i'd of wanted more but we have to be realistic.
In terms of team selection i'd go with a blend of youth and experienced squad players. Its not necessarily about playing our first team to ensure a win, but making sure we are well prepared and going into the game with the right mentality, not treating it like a friendly or like we're only just playing a non-league team.
Id go with:
Ospina
Jenksinon - Mertesacker - Holding - Gibbs
Maitland Niles - Elneney
Walcott - Renaine Adelaide - Lucas
Giroud.
Subs: Martinez, Debuchy, Gabriel, Xhaka, Ox, Iwobi, Wilcock
Score prediction i think 3-1 to us. If Lucas starts he'll get a brace.
(Banter please Ed, thanks)
20 Feb 2017 13:13:54
Pretty sure you can forget about Lucas starting as he's most likely still injured. Pity - I'd have loved to see him seize the opportunity and don't doubt that he would have.
Agree with most of what you're saying otherwise. We have the depth for rotation in the cup but need to lay down more of a marker.
Also couldn't help but notice you comment on the strength of rivals still in the cup and neglect to mention Spurs. Nice!
20 Feb 2017 14:22:10
For me DG you aren't taking it seriously. Defence and midfield look very beatable for various reasons. i'd go with a lot stronget team than that, you are setting us up for defeat with that team. The one thing none league teams usually lack is pace at the back and usually they can mix it physically. For me a lot stronger team than that is required.
20 Feb 2017 14:29:14
If we field that side we are OUT.
20 Feb 2017 14:30:17
DG
I think he wants to win every game.
For me I hope he plays a strong side, gets the win and move onto the next game.
20 Feb 2017 16:02:47
We don't play for 12 days, no excuses not to play a strong side.
20 Feb 2017 16:03:34
And arguably he can rest players in that game, its gone.
20 Feb 2017 16:05:27
That side should beat them but the word should is hardly convincing.
20 Feb 2017 14:55:08
With some time before our next match, I wouldn't take any chances and put out whatever Wenger considers to be the strongest side that play well on artificial pitches. I have a feeling he may play Mertesacker to bring a respected and experienced player back. However, I am not sure that is a great idea on the artificial pitch!
20 Feb 2017 17:17:05
We should play our strongest but at the same time I'd like to see some underperforming players dropped and others given a chance to push on for first team football.
20 Feb 2017 19:39:18
Also he puts a B team out and we loose he gets crucified and if we put a good team out and someone gets injured then he gets crucified.