Arsenal v Leeds preview

Posted Saturday, January 08, 2011 by skysports.com

Leeds will be keen to repeat their heroics of last term when they meet Arsenal in the third round of the FA Cup.

The Whites, then of League One, stunned Manchester United at Old Trafford last season before taking Tottenham to a replay in the fourth round.

This season Leeds are impressing in the Championship, but they remain firm underdogs against Arsene Wenger's star-studded troops.

The Gunners were eliminated by Stoke City last season and they will not be taking the competition lightly as they seek to end their barren run without silverware.

Leeds' only FA Cup triumph came in 1972 courtesy of a 1-0 success over the north Londoners with Allan Clarke bagging the match-winning effort.

Arsenal news

French tactician Wenger has promised changes to his side with the option of resting key personnel as the season enters a crucial phase.

The Gunners will definitely be without the suspended full-back Bacary Sagna following his red card in their midweek draw with Manchester City.

Utility man Emmanuel Eboue is likely to slot in at right-back with Kieran Gibbs available again and he could feature ahead of Gael Clichy.

Samir Nasri and Robin van Persie are both set to be rested while Manuel Almunia, Abou Diaby and Thomas Vermaelen are all injured.

Leeds news
Leeds will also make changes with talisman Luciano Becchio to be restored after he was rested for their midweek trip to Cardiff.

The Argentina hit-man featured off the bench in the 2-1 defeat to the Bluebirds and will be good to go at the Emirates with Billy Paynter making way.

On-loan Arsenal man Sanchez Watt is available to play after being granted permission by the Gunners although Lloyd Sam (thigh) is set to miss out.

Neil Kilkenny is with Australia at the Asian Cup so Jonny Howson and Bradley Johnson should make up the midfield with Ross McCormack tucking in behind Becchio.