Preston vs Arsenal: Team News and Lineup Predictions
Get ready for a clash of styles as Preston North End takes on Arsenal in the FA Cup fourth round. The League One side will be looking to pull off a major upset against the Premier League giants, while Arsenal will be aiming to continue their impressive form and progress to the next stage of the competition.
This match promises to be a fascinating encounter, and with both teams having potential injury concerns, we'll delve into the latest team news and predict the starting lineups for this crucial tie.
Preston Team News
Preston will be looking to build on their recent resurgence, having won three of their last four league games. Manager Ryan Lowe has a few injury concerns to contend with.
Key Injuries:
- Alan Browne: The midfielder is a doubt for the game after suffering an ankle injury.
- Daniel Johnson: The experienced forward is also a question mark, having missed the last game with a calf injury.
- Greg Cunningham: The defender remains sidelined with a long-term knee injury.
Possible Return:
- Ched Evans: The striker is nearing a return after recovering from a hamstring injury. His availability could be a boost to Preston's attacking options.
Arsenal Team News
Arsenal have been flying high in the Premier League, currently sitting in first place. However, manager Mikel Arteta has to deal with a few injuries ahead of this FA Cup tie.
Key Injuries:
- Gabriel Jesus: The striker remains sidelined with a knee injury and is not expected to return for another few weeks.
- Reiss Nelson: The winger is also ruled out with a hamstring injury.
- Emile Smith Rowe: The midfielder is struggling with a groin problem and is unlikely to feature.
Possible Return:
- Mohamed Elneny: The midfielder could be back in contention after recovering from a knee injury. His return would provide midfield depth for Arsenal.
Preston Predicted Lineup (4-4-2)
- Goalkeeper: Freddie Woodman
- Defense: Greg Cunningham, Liam Lindsay, Andrew Hughes, Jordan Storey
- Midfield: Ben Whiteman, Ali McCann, Ryan Ledson, Alvaro Fernandez
- Attack: Ched Evans, Will Keane
Arsenal Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale
- Defense: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Kieran Tierney
- Midfield: Granit Xhaka, Thomas Partey, Fabio Vieira
- Attack: Bukayo Saka, Eddie Nketiah, Gabriel Martinelli
Conclusion
This match promises to be an intriguing encounter, with both sides having their own strengths and weaknesses. Preston, with their strong home form and fighting spirit, will be eager to cause an upset. Arsenal, on the other hand, will be looking to maintain their winning momentum and secure a comfortable victory.
With both teams having a few injury concerns, the final starting lineups could be subject to late changes. Regardless, expect a tightly contested match with plenty of drama and excitement.