With the Bayern nightmare over and done with, Arsenal return to action against National League leaders Lincoln City in the quarter-final of the FA Cup, a game that will be significant in The Gunners season, and even the future of under pressure Arsene Wenger.
The FA Cup represents the only realistic trophy that the team could lift at the end of the season and could be key in Wenger’s decision to stay or go.
But, once again, I’m in charge, so here’s my team to face Lincoln at The Emirates on Saturday evening.
Now, I’m all for playing youth and squad players in FA Cup but, finding the balance for what will be a tough, physical tie is important, while also playing a team to expose the opponent’s weaknesses and earn a semi-final game at Wembley.
I’ve decided to go with a 4-3-3 formation in order to do this.
David Ospina keeps his place in between the sticks, despite conceding five on Tuesday night. The Colombian is clearly second choice to Petr Cech but, he is a good back-up and deserves his minutes in cup competitions.
In front of Ospina, I have opted for Gabriel and Laurent Koscielny in central defence. Brazilian Gabriel is in a similar position to Ospina, while captain Koscielny’s importance was shown once again earlier this week. Taken off injured the first leg and harshly red carded in the second of the Champions League round of 16 against Bayern, during the time the Frenchman was on the pitch, Arsenal were actually winning the tie 2-1, enough said I think.
Kieran Gibbs takes the left-back spot and could do with a solid performance to get back in first choice XI (please Kieran, no more Monreal, please).
On the opposite flank, Hector Bellerin was an easy selection for me. As much as Carl Jenkinson would probably love a game, I couldn’t bring myself to do it. I’m sure I’ll be receiving a knock on the office door, Monday morning before training. Oh well.
Picking a team beyond this point then became difficult. With personal favourite Mohamed Elneny already out injured, a sickness bug has reportedly hit the camp, claiming Mesut Ozil, Danny Welbeck and Alex Iwobi. Safe to say my options were limited.
In my three man midfield, Granit Xhaka takes the holding role to provide a bit of power and distribution from deep. In front of him, completing the trio is youngster Jeff Reine Adelaide and Aaron Ramsey, with both being given license to get at Lincoln, keep things neat and tidy, create chances and cause the fifth tier team issues.
With Welbeck and Iwobi ill, Olivier Giroud not suitable for the role I need playing and giggling, strop throwing, one-foot out the door Alexis Sanchez dividing opinion at the moment, my front three was basically decided for me.
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain and Theo Walcott are on either wing, both given the freedom to get at a Lincoln defence that isn’t the quickest, while Lucas Perez takes the central strikers role. The Spaniards movement, pace and finish ability inside the 18-yard box are vital if Arsenal want to come out on top.
As for the style I would play, keep the ball on the floor at all times. Lincoln are a big, powerful team who would dominate if we played into their hands, therefore, pressing them high, moving it quick, an exposing a lack of pace defensively is the answer.
I think my team would get the job done just fine but, it’s all in Arsene’s hands now, who will he pick this Saturday?
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