Preston vs Arsenal: Team News & Starting Lineups
Get ready for a clash of styles as Preston North End hosts the mighty Arsenal in the FA Cup Third Round. This match promises to be a captivating encounter, with the Championship side hoping to pull off an upset against the Premier League giants.
Here's everything you need to know about the key players, potential lineups, and important team news ahead of the game.
Preston North End Team News
Injuries: Preston will be without key defender Andrew Hughes, who remains sidelined with a knee injury. Bambo Diaby is also a doubt with a hamstring issue.
Suspensions: There are no reported suspensions for Preston.
Key Players: Preston will rely heavily on the experience of striker Ched Evans who has been in excellent form this season. Midfielder Ben Whiteman is another key player to watch out for, with his ability to dictate the pace of the game.
Arsenal Team News
Injuries: Arsenal are expected to be without Gabriel Jesus, who is still recovering from a knee injury. Reiss Nelson is also a doubt due to a hamstring issue.
Suspensions: There are no reported suspensions for Arsenal.
Key Players: Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Granit Xhaka will be key for Arsenal's attacking and midfield dominance. The return of Gabriel Jesus would be a huge boost, but his absence shouldn't be a major problem with the depth Arsenal possesses.
Preston North End Predicted Lineup (4-4-2)
- GK: Freddie Woodman
- RB: Greg Cunningham
- CB: Liam Lindsay
- CB: Patrick Bauer
- LB: Alan Browne
- RM: Ben Whiteman
- CM: Ali McCann
- CM: Ryan Ledson
- LM: Will Keane
- ST: Ched Evans
- ST: Troy Parrott
Arsenal Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)
- GK: Aaron Ramsdale
- RB: Ben White
- CB: William Saliba
- CB: Gabriel Magalhães
- LB: Kieran Tierney
- CM: Thomas Partey
- CM: Granit Xhaka
- CM: Martin Ødegaard
- RW: Bukayo Saka
- ST: Eddie Nketiah
- LW: Gabriel Martinelli
Key Factors to Watch
- Home Advantage: Preston will be hoping to use their home advantage to their advantage. Their passionate fans will be a significant factor in the game.
- Arsenal's Depth: Arsenal's squad depth will be crucial, especially with several players missing. Their ability to rotate and maintain a high level of intensity will be important.
- The Pace of the Game: Preston are known for their direct style of play, while Arsenal like to dominate possession. This clash of styles could make for an entertaining match.
Conclusion
This FA Cup tie has the potential to be a thrilling affair. Preston, despite being the underdogs, have the ability to pull off an upset. However, Arsenal's superior talent and experience make them the clear favorites.
Be sure to tune in to watch this exciting match and see if Preston can cause an upset!