In the final mid-week, FA Cup third round replay, Arsenal travels to Elland Road for a fixture used to be a staple on the Premier League calendar. Now, in the wake of Leeds United's the dramatic collapse into the Football League, the Gunners haven't been to the venue since 2003. Then, Arsenal won 4-1 on their way to doing the double over Leeds (by a 9-1 aggregate), but if Leeds' draw at the Emirates ten days ago provides any insight into Wednesday's replay, Arsenal could follow in the footsteps of Manchester United, who were eliminated by Leeds at the stage of last year's competition.
FA Cup Replay: Arsenal Tries To Avoid Third Round Upset At Leeds United
Two Saturdays ago, Leeds was close to pulling off that feet at the Emirates. Robert Snodgrass’s 54th minute penalty gave the Whites a 1-0 lead only to see Arsenal saved by a late spot kick of their own, Cesc Fabregas converting in stoppage time. The Gunners captain had come on as a second half substitute, augmented a side which, having made a number of changes from the choice league side, gave one of Arsenal’s most lackluster performances of the season.
Whether Arsène Wenger makes similar lineup choices today could define the match. His injury situation is good, missing only Sebastien Squillaci and Thomas Vermaelen. With upcoming matches against Wigan and Ipswich Town (both at the Emirates), Wenger can afford to choose a few of more starters. If he does, Simon Grayson will be hard pressed to replicate the first match's result, let alone the last year's upset of Manchester United.
The match kicks-off at 3:00 p.m. Eastern, the winner getting Huddersfield Town at home a week-and-a-half from now. SB Nation Soccer will be providing periodic updates throughout today’s match.
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