FA Cup

Alexis Sanchez, Manchester United Eliminate Arsenal from FA Cup with 3-1 Win

Jan 25, 2019
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 25: Muted celebrations from Alexis Sanchez of Manchester United after scoring their 1st goal during the FA Cup Fourth Round match between Arsenal and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 25, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 25: Muted celebrations from Alexis Sanchez of Manchester United after scoring their 1st goal during the FA Cup Fourth Round match between Arsenal and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 25, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Alexis Sanchez scored against his old club as Manchester United won their eighth match in a row in all competitions under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to knock Arsenal out of the 2019 FA Cup on Friday.

United sent the Gunners packing from the fourth round after leaving the Emirates Stadium with a 3-1 win, thanks to goals from Sanchez, Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial.

Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang got on the scoresheet for the disappointing Gunners, who lost starting centre-backs Laurent Koscielny and Sokratis Papastathopoulos to injury during the game.

   

Alexis Sanchez Belongs in United's Best XI

Alexis Sanchez has been close to anonymous since swapping Arsenal for United and a bumper contract last January. He couldn't convince Jose Mourinho of his worth, and it says a lot about how far the Chilean has fallen that Solskjaer has started Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial ahead of him for league games.

Solskjaer may want to think again, though, after Sanchez used cup duty to prove he belongs in United's best XI. The South American forward took the opening goal brilliantly, rounding Petr Cech with typical skill before deftly finishing from a rapidly narrowing angle.

More than the finish, the goal highlighted the most important quality Sanchez brings to the United attack. Namely, perceptive movement.

Sanchez ghosted from out to in to receive a pass from Romelu Lukaku, the man whose place he'd taken in the middle of the forward line.

This type of run and rotation of positions makes United more fluid and less predictable in attack. Sanchez has mastered the art of such runs, thanks to excellent timing and a natural instinct for where gaps will appear.

Aside from his movement, the 30-year-old has the pace, flair and trickery to produce magic at any moment. His attempts to conjure said magic left Arsenal chasing shadows during the first half:

He was substituted with less than 20 minutes left, but Sanchez had done enough to show Solskjaer he must start United's highest-earner more often.

   

Alexandre Lacazette Too Inconsistent to Fire Arsenal into Top 4

While Aubameyang scored, Alexandre Lacazette toiled without end product against United. The Frenchman showed he's too inconsistent to fire Arsenal to a top-four finish and a place in next season's UEFA Champions League.

Emery has put his faith in Lacazette to lead the line for big matches recently. It's even meant shifting Aubameyang, who has 17 goals in all competitions to his credit, out wide.

Lacazette simply isn't justifying moving Arsenal's best goalscorer out of the areas where he does the most damage. Instead, his touch, passing range and movement were all below par against the Red Devils.

Lacazette struggled to connect with team-mates or to hold the ball up whenever the Gunners connected with their main striker.

His shaky performance was a far cry from the scintillating effort the former Lyon star produced during the recent 2-0 win over Chelsea in the Premier League. Lacazette scored the opener in spectacular fashion and led the line brilliantly.

Yet for every wonder strike, Lacazette has an equal number of days where he looks incapable of finding the net.

The truth is the 27-year-old is a scorer of great goals rather than a great goalscorer. Nor is he a complete striker who will make the ball stick and link the play the way Arsenal head coach Unai Emery needs him to.

Emery should stick to using Lacazette and his ability to improvise his way to sudden brilliance, as an impact substitute. In the meantime, Aubameyang must be allowed to be the focal point up top.

The latter is the only striker prolific enough to help mask the Gunners' defensive frailties.

   

What's Next?

Both clubs are in Premier League action on Tuesday night, with Arsenal hosting Cardiff City and United welcoming Burnley to Old Trafford.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Says Alexis Sanchez Will Feature Against Arsenal in FA Cup

Jan 24, 2019
Manchester United's Chilean striker Alexis Sanchez warms up for the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on January 19, 2019. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. /         (Photo credit should read OLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty Images)
Manchester United's Chilean striker Alexis Sanchez warms up for the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on January 19, 2019. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo credit should read OLI SCARFF/AFP/Getty Images)

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed Alexis Sanchez will be involved against former club Arsenal on Friday.

The Red Devils and the Gunners will meet at the Emirates Stadium in the most high-profile fixture in the fourth round of the FA Cup. It will also be the first time Sanchez has returned to his former home since making the move to Old Trafford in January 2018.

Since joining United, the Chile international has struggled with form and fitness. Sanchez has most recently been suffering from a hamstring issue, but Solskjaer confirmed to MUTV that he will feature against Arsenal and backed Sanchez to thrive in a potentially hostile environment (h/t The Independent).

"He'll be involved," said the United boss. "I think he'll love it if the crowd turn against him. As a player, pride kicks in and you think 'I'll show all of you.' He's been fantastic in training, his attitude has been spot on so hopefully he'll enjoy the game."

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 13: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Interim Manager of Manchester United celebrates victory after the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium on January 13, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (P
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 13: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Interim Manager of Manchester United celebrates victory after the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium on January 13, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (P

Sanchez joined the Gunners in the summer of 2014 and was a huge success during his time working under Arsene Wenger.

The former Barcelona and Udinese man won the FA Cup twice with the Gunners and often set the tone for the team in attack. Whether operating through the middle or from a wide position, he was exceptional, regularly chipping in with goals and assists:

Sanchez allowed his contract at Arsenal to run down, though, and he joined United in a swap deal in January last year. The Gunners received Henrikh Mkhitaryan in return:

Since making the move, it's been a grind for Sanchez. He failed to fit into the blueprint laid out by ex-United boss Jose Mourinho, and the benefit of a pre-season with his new team-mates appeared of little help this season, with his goal return paltry: 

Solskjaer will hope featuring in a big game will stoke Sanchez's United career into life, as it's the sort of occasion the forward would have relished during his time at Arsenal. 

Still, there's little guarantee of him starting the clash. The Red Devils have been in excellent form since Solskjaer took over in mid-December, winning seven matches in succession, and attackers Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard have excelled.

Sanchez will be desperate to perform when he does get on the field, and if he can start to play himself back into form in 2019, he will be a huge asset for the Red Devils for the remainder of the campaign.

Arsenal vs. Manchester United: FA Cup 2019 Odds, Live Stream, TV Info

Jan 24, 2019
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - JANUARY 02: Alexis Sanchez of Manchester United  during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St. James Park on January 2, 2019 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - JANUARY 02: Alexis Sanchez of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St. James Park on January 2, 2019 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

Arsenal take on Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium on Friday in what is the biggest tie in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

The Gunners come into the game after a confidence-boosting 2-0 win over Chelsea but face a visiting side that have won seven games in a row under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

            

Date: Friday, January 25

Time: 7:55 p.m. GMT/2:55 p.m. ET

TV Info: BBC One (UK)

Live Stream: BBC iPlayerESPN+

Odds: Arsenal: 7-5, Draw: 5-2, Manchester United: 7-4

Odds according to Oddschecker.

         

Match Preview

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 12:  Unai Emery, Manager of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on January 12, 2019 in London, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 12: Unai Emery, Manager of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on January 12, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Arsenal suffered more injury woe ahead of the game, with full-back Hector Bellerin ruled out for the rest of the season with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

The 23-year-old joins Danny Welbeck and Rob Holding on the sidelines, although Henrikh Mkhitaryan is expected to return to training ahead of the game against his former club, per the club's official website.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles is the most likely replacement for Bellerin, but Stephan Lichtsteiner is also an option.

Manager Unai Emery is aware of the threat facing his team from a resurgent Manchester United:

The Gunners cruised past League One Blackpool 3-0 in the third round at Bloomfield Road, and Emery is relishing being at home on Friday night, per James Olley at the Evening Standard.

"We are looking forward to playing this match on Friday because it's at our stadium, the Emirates, in front of our supporters," he said. "We feel very well in front of them, and we want to create a new atmosphere over 90 minutes on Friday, together with our supporters."

Friday's clash could see former Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez return to the Emirates as a player for the first time. The Chile international has not featured for the Red Devils since the third round win over Reading but is set to start, per James Robson at the Evening Standard.

Sanchez has slipped down the pecking order at Old Trafford because of an injury and the form of Marcus Rashford. The England international has five goals and an assist in his past seven games and is thriving under Solskjaer.

The Norwegian has the Red Devils enjoying their football again and has already carved his name into the history books:

Manchester United's winning streak will ensure the Red Devils head to the Emirates full of confidence, and on current form, they will take some stopping.

FA Cup 2019: 4th-Round TV Schedule, Live Stream, Odds and Predictions

Jan 24, 2019
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 19: Alexandre Lacazette of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Chelsea FC at Emirates Stadium on January 19, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 19: Alexandre Lacazette of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Chelsea FC at Emirates Stadium on January 19, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Arsenal's clash against Manchester United is the standout fixture in the fourth round of the FA Cup as the resurgent Red Devils head to the Emirates Stadium on Friday.

Premier League champions Manchester City take on Burnley at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, while Newcastle United host Watford.

Sunday also sees some tasty fixtures. Holders Chelsea host Sheffield Wednesday, while injury-hit Tottenham Hotspur face a tricky trip to Crystal Palace. Non-league Barnet play host to Championship side Brentford on Monday evening.

    

Friday, January 25

7:45 p.m. GMT/2:45 p.m. ET: Bristol City vs. Bolton Wanderers (0-2)

7:55 p.m. GMT/2:55 p.m. ET: Arsenal vs. Manchester United (2-2)

       

Saturday, January 26

12:30 p.m. GMT/7:30 a.m. ET: Accrington Stanley vs. Derby County (0-2)

3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET: Brighton & Hove Albion vs. West Bromwich Albion (1-0)

3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET: Doncaster Rovers vs. Oldham Athletic (2-1)

3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET: Manchester City vs. Burnley (3-0)

3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET: Middlesbrough vs. Newport County (2-0)

3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET: Newcastle United vs. Watford (1-1)

3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET: Portsmouth vs. Queens Park Rangers (0-1)

3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET: Shrewsbury Town vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers (0-1)

3 p.m. GMT/10 a.m. ET: Swansea City vs. Gillingham (1-0)

5:30 p.m. GMT/12:30 p.m. ET: Millwall vs. Everton (1-2)

7:45 p.m. GMT/2:45 p.m. ET: AFC Wimbledon vs. West Ham United (0-2)

        

Sunday, January 27

4 p.m. GMT/11 a.m ET: Crystal Palace vs. Tottenham Hotspur (3-2)

6 p.m. GMT/1 p.m ET: Chelsea vs. Sheffield Wednesday (1-0)

            

Monday, January 28

7:45 p.m. GMT/2:45 p.m. ET: Barnet vs. Brentford (0-1)

Matches broadcast on BT Sport in the UK can be streamed via the BT Sport app. Games shown on BBC are available on the BBC iPlayer. In the United States, FA Cup games are available via ESPN+.

        

Selected Match Odds

Arsenal (8-5), Draw (13-5), Manchester United (16-9)

Manchester City (1-9), Draw (21-2), Burnley (40-1)

Newcastle United (36-17), Draw (5-2), Watford (7-5)

Millwall (4-1), Draw (3-1), Everton (3-4)

Crystal Palace (19-10), Draw (12-5), Tottenham Hotspur (13-8)

Chelsea (1-4), Draw (6-1), Sheffield Wednesday (12-1)

Courtesy of Oddschecker

       

Arsenal vs. Manchester United 

Two of the most successful teams in FA Cup history clash at the Emirates on Friday.

Arsenal have won the competition 13 times, and Manchester United are just one behind on 12 wins.

The Gunners will be hoping to become the first team to inflict a defeat on the Red Devils since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took charge.

The former Norway international has won all seven games since replacing Jose Mourinho in the Old Trafford hotseat, and United will arrive at the Emirates full of confidence.

Solskjaer is getting the best out of key men Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford, and he has his team playing with an attacking verve that has been lacking over recent seasons:

However, Arsenal put in one of their best performances of the season last time out, when they beat Chelsea 2-0 in a dominant win at the Emirates.

The victory was marred by serious injury to Hector Bellerin, though. The club have since confirmed he will miss the rest of the season with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, joining Rob Holding and Danny Welbeck as long-term injury victims.

There looks to be little to choose between the two teams who are locked on 44 points in the Premier League, although United are the team in form and may take some stopping.

      

Crystal Palace vs. Tottenham Hotspur

Mauricio Pochettino's Tottenham make the short trip to Selhurst Park without several key players.

Captain Harry Kane remains sidelined with an ankle injury, Heung-Min Son is at the Asian Games with South Korea, and Dele Alli has been sidelined with a hamstring problem:

Alli's injury comes at a bad time for Spurs who are in the middle of a hectic schedule. Sunday's match comes in the midst of a run of five games in 14 days.

However, Spurs have been boosted by the return of three players to training ahead of the match:

The injuries will stretch Tottenham's resources to the full, and Crystal Palace will fancy taking advantage of their London rivals.

The Eagles are enduring a tough season in the Premier League and are only three points off the relegation zone after 23 games.

However, Roy Hodgson's men have caused problems for some of the top teams this season. They have drawn with Manchester United and Arsenal, beaten Manchester City 3-2 and gave Liverpool a scare in a 4-3 defeat at Anfield on Saturday.

Crystal Palace will feel this is a good time to play Spurs, and with home advantage they will hope to spring a surprise and knock Pochettino's men out of the FA Cup.

Arsenal Respond to Manchester United Fans After Reduced FA Cup Ticket Allocation

Jan 16, 2019
ManU midfielder Jesse Lingard, right, and Arsenal's Lucas Torreira, left, vie for the ball during the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, England, Wednesday Dec. 5, 2018. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
ManU midfielder Jesse Lingard, right, and Arsenal's Lucas Torreira, left, vie for the ball during the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, England, Wednesday Dec. 5, 2018. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)

Arsenal have announced they have issued Manchester United a reduced ticket allocation for their FA Cup clash because of safety advice.

The Red Devils are set to travel to London for the fourth-round tie on January 25, but United fans were angered to receive only 8.7 per cent of the ground allocation at the Emirates Stadium. Away fans are entitled to 15 per cent, according to Football Association rules, but the Gunners have said safety concerns have forced them to restrict away fans.

A club spokesman told Press Association Sport that Arsenal believe they have no other option  (h/t the Mirror's Darren Wells and Mark Mann-Bryans):

"We recognise that having more away fans at matches is one of the many reasons why the Emirates FA Cup is so special.

"For the match against Manchester United, the safety assessments we have undertaken, which included liaison with our stadium licensing authority, have made it clear it would not be safe to accommodate visiting fans in the upper tier.

"We take safety of home and away fans at Emirates Stadium very seriously and cannot ignore the results of the robust safety assessments which have been conducted."

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 13: Manchester United fans celebrate after their team win the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley Stadium on January 13, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehous
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 13: Manchester United fans celebrate after their team win the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley Stadium on January 13, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehous

The Manchester United Supporters Trust hit out at the north London giants for not consulting supporters about safety fears before making a decision.

According to Wells and Mann-Bryans, the fan group released a statement that read:

"We are hugely disappointed by the decision to uphold Arsenal's self-interested and hypocritical near-halving of the 15 per cent ticket allocation that should be provided under FA Cup rules.

"The FA must themselves be concerned by this blatant disrespect for their own rule.

"The vibrant atmosphere created by a larger away supporter presence is part of the 'magic of the FA Cup' that is already suffering as a result of other decisions including televising and rescheduling matches - although ironically 11,000 United supporters were willing to meet the resulting travel challenge and now more than half will be denied the opportunity."

United have arguably the biggest away following in England, with fans clamouring for tickets in all competitions when the team is on the road.

Charlotte Duncker of the Manchester Evening News highlighted that Arsenal gave Lincoln City an allocation of 9,000 for their trip to the Emirates in 2017 and also offered Coventry City the same number. However, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Everton have all received vastly reduced ticket allocations by the Gunners, suggesting only supporters of major clubs are being penalised.

Arsenal Offer Reduced Allocation of FA Cup Tickets to Manchester United

Jan 15, 2019
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 05:  Sokratis Papastathopoulos of Arsenal tackles Marcus Rashford of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal FC at Old Trafford on December 5, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 05: Sokratis Papastathopoulos of Arsenal tackles Marcus Rashford of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal FC at Old Trafford on December 5, 2018 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Arsenal have come in for criticism after offering a reduced allocation of tickets to Manchester United supporters for the FA Cup fourth round tie set for Friday, January 25.

A report from Reuters (h/t Sky Sports) noted how United were entitled to as many as 9,000 tickets. However, Arsenal have dished out only 5,000 amid concerns about supporter safety at the Emirates Stadium.

The report also cited a statement from Manchester United Supporters' Trust (MUST) lamenting the decision and its implications for fans:

"For Arsenal to offer little over half the proper allocation is a joke. The game is just 10 days away and at present United are unable to sell tickets to their fansSupporters need to make arrangements for a fixture which has already been shifted to an inconvenient Friday night kick-off time."

United supporters are less than impressed with Arsenal's decision to cut the number of tickets available.
United supporters are less than impressed with Arsenal's decision to cut the number of tickets available.

Ironically, United's complaints have been met with approval by Arsenal fans.

The Arsenal Supporters' Trust called for their club to adhere to the FA Cup policy of allotting more tickets than away fans usually receive for league games: "Set at 15 per cent in rules. Creates great atmosphere and creates differentiation to PL (Premier League). So frustrating to see this under threat at Emirates for MUFC Cup tie."

Those concerns will become more prevalent for Gunners fans if a replay is needed. Replays have been scrapped this season, but only from the fifth round onwards.

Even so, a spokeswoman for Arsenal said the north London club had reached the figure to be allocated after discussions with police and safety advisory people within the local authority.

Charlotte Duncker of the Manchester Evening News provided more detail on Arsenal's controversial decision:

Duncker's fellow Evening News writer Samuel Luckhurst had anticipated a development of this nature not long after the two great rivals were drawn together:

Concerns about what effect reducing the number of United supporters may have on the atmosphere at the game are valid, at least up to a point. A larger travelling contingent would increase the volume and intensity at the Emirates, particularly as United fans are likely to be buoyant with the club on a run of six wins in all competitions since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer replaced Jose Mourinho as manager.

Diluting the atmosphere by culling the number of supporters allowed to attend is risky, particularly in a competition that's shrunk in importance as it is. Both the Premier League and the lucrative UEFA Champions League occupy the attentions of clubs, and some fans, more than the oldest cup competition in the game.

Supporters may already be in two minds about whether to travel to a match set to begin at 7:55 p.m. GMT/2:55 p.m. ET on Friday. Particularly since the game will also be televised.

Yet despite all these concerns, those in attendance will surely contribute to a decent atmosphere for the next chapter in a storied rivalry. Arsenal and United defined an era in the Premier League when they vied for the title in the late-90s and early- to mid-2000s.

Managers Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson stoked the rivalry, while clashes between stalwart players such as midfield generals Patrick Vieira and Roy Keane quickly became the stuff of legend.

Cardiff, UNITED KINGDOM:  (FILES) Picture taken 21 May 2005 at the Millennium Dome in Cardiff, shows Arsenal's Patrick Vieira lifting the FA Cup after Arsenal defeated Manchester United in the FA Cup Final football match. Juventus were reported to be pois
Cardiff, UNITED KINGDOM: (FILES) Picture taken 21 May 2005 at the Millennium Dome in Cardiff, shows Arsenal's Patrick Vieira lifting the FA Cup after Arsenal defeated Manchester United in the FA Cup Final football match. Juventus were reported to be pois

The two clubs also share an eventful history in the FA Cup. Arsenal have emerged victorious in two finals, including the famous "five-minute final" in 1979 when Alan Sunderland's winner gave the Gunners a 3-2 win after United had drawn level from 2-0 down.

It was the Gunners who won again when the two sides contested the Cup in 2005. They triumphed 5-4 on penalties despite being thoroughly dominated for 120 minutes by a stronger, quicker United.

The last cup tie between the two saw Arsenal win 2-1 at Old Trafford in the 2015 quarter-final. Former Red Devils striker Danny Welbeck netted the winner as the Gunners went on to retain the trophy.

History favours Arsenal heading into the next meeting:

However, United are in stronger form, with Solskjaer having revived several key players, including playmaker Paul Pogba. He can also call on former Arsenal attacking talisman Alexis Sanchez, who moved to Manchester last January, to torment his former club.

The Gunners are currently only above United on goal difference in the league. Yet cup competitions represent a chance for Unai Emery, who succeeded record-FA Cup winner Wenger as manager in the summer, to ensure a fruitful first season in England.

Emery will need the Arsenal faithful to make their numbers advantage count and generate an atmosphere strong enough to inspire his struggling team to a vital win.

FA Cup Draw 2019 Schedule: 4th-Round Fixtures and Dates Released

Jan 7, 2019

Arsenal will host Manchester United in the standout fixture of the FA Cup fourth round following Monday's draw. 

The match at the Emirates Stadium will see the two most successful sides in the competition go head-to-head, as Gunners boss Unai Emery and United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer seek to secure silverware in their debut campaigns as manager.

Elsewhere there's a London derby between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur to look forward to at Selhurst Park. Holders Chelsea will meet either Luton Town or Sheffield Wednesday, while Manchester City host Burnley at the Etihad Stadium.

Here is the draw in full for Round 4 of the competition:

    

Swansea City vs. Gillingham

AFC Wimbledon vs. West Ham United

Shrewsbury Town vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers

Millwall vs. Everton

Brighton & Hove Albion vs. West Bromwich Albion

Bristol City vs. Bolton Wanderers

Accrington Stanley vs. Derby County or Southampton

Doncaster Rovers vs. Oldham Athletic

Chelsea vs. Sheffield Wednesday or Luton Town

Newcastle United or Blackburn Rovers vs. Watford

Middlesbrough vs. Newport County

Manchester City vs. Burnley

Barnet vs. Brentford

Portsmouth vs. Queens Park Rangers

Arsenal vs. Manchester United

Crystal Palace vs. Tottenham Hotspur

       

Matches will be played between Friday, January 25 and Monday, January 28.

          

Arsenal and United to Renew FA Cup Rivalry

After safely making it into the fourth round of the competition with wins over lower league opponents at home, Arsenal and United will face a much tougher assignment in their next FA Cup fixture.

It's a match that will stir memories of thrilling clashes gone by between these two sides, most notably the famous win for United in the 1999 semi-final and Ryan Giggs' iconic goal that seized victory for the Red Devils at Villa Park.

Overall, there aren't any sides capable of matching the pedigree of these two when it comes to the FA Cup:

Aside from that incredible game almost 20 years ago, the Gunners tend to get the better of the Red Devils in this competition too: 

These two sides aren't to the standard they were in 1999, and with neither side currently in a strong position to qualify for the UEFA Champions League this term, this cup competition is likely to take on extra significance.

The same is true for Tottenham. While they remain in the hunt for four prizes at the start of 2019, they have yet to win silverware under manager Mauricio Pochettino; a trophy of any sort would be the cap on the excellent progress they have made in recent years.

A trip to Palace is far from ideal for them though. Spurs won this fixture 1-0 earlier in the season in the Premier League, but Roy Hodgson's team have found some form as of late and with a midtable finish likely, they will surely throw everything at this competition.

HLTCO thinks there are good omens for the Eagles:

Elsewhere, Chelsea will be confident of progressing with another draw at home against a lower league outfit. City will also be the big favourites when they meet Burnley, who are struggling in the Premier League this term.

Barnet, the only non-league team left in the competition, will host Brentford. After upsetting Leicester City on Sunday, Newport County's reward is a trip to Middlesbrough.

FA Cup 2019: 3rd-Round Results, Scores, Updated Schedule After Monday's Fixture

Jan 7, 2019

Premier League leaders Liverpool were dumped out of the FA Cup in the third round at Molineux on Monday, as they slipped to a 2-1 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Manager Jurgen Klopp made nine changes to his side for the match, and they fell behind to Raul Jimenez's opening goal.

Divock Origi pulled one back for the Reds in the second half, but Ruben Neves' long-range strike sent Wolves into the fourth round at Liverpool's expense.

Wolves go on to face either Shrewsbury Town or Stoke City in the next round. Here's a look at the full schedule:

    

Fourth-Round Fixtures

Swansea City vs. Gillingham

AFC Wimbledon vs. West Ham United

Shrewsbury or Stoke vs. Wolves

Millwall vs. Everton

Brighton & Hove Albion vs. West Bromwich Albion

Bristol City vs. Bolton Wanderers

Accrington Stanley vs. Derby County or Southampton

Doncaster Rovers vs. Oldham Athletic

Chelsea vs. Sheffield Wednesday or Luton Town

Newcastle United or Blackburn Rovers vs. Watford

Middlesbrough vs. Newport County

Manchester City vs. Burnley

Barnet vs. Brentford

Portsmouth vs. Queens Park Rangers

Arsenal vs. Manchester United

Crystal Palace vs. Tottenham Hotspur

Ties are scheduled to be played across the weekend of Saturday, January 26.

    

Monday Recap

Both managers made significant changes to their teams for Monday's clash:

Liverpool were also forced into a further change with just six minutes on the clock after centre-back Dejan Lovren picked up an injury and was replaced by 16-year-old Ki-Jana Hoever:

The Reds saw plenty of possession in the first half but offered little attacking threat. A wayward Xherdan Shaqiri shot on the half-hour mark was their best effort.

Meanwhile, Joao Moutinho went close with an effort for Wolves, before Willy Boly directed a header just off-target.

The deadlock was finally broken on 38 minutes through Jimenez. Diogo Jota caught James Milner in possession and then found the Mexico international who raced through on goal and coolly slotted past Simon Mignolet.

Squawka Football highlighted his record against the Premier League's big clubs:

Liverpool managed to get back on level terms within five minutes of the restart. Origi picked up a loose ball on the edge of the penalty area, took a touch and fired it past goalkeeper John Ruddy.

Opta noted how it was the Reds' first shot on goal:

However, Wolves responded quickly to the setback and restored their lead four minutes later, with Neves finding the bottom corner with a powerful strike from distance.

Shaqiri came within a whisker of equalising for Liverpool on 69 minutes with a brilliant free-kick. Ruddy just managed to get a fingertip to the ball, which hit the inside of the post and flew away to safety.

Klopp sent on Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah in search of an equaliser, but the Reds failed to really trouble Ruddy in the Wolves goal.

The Premier League and UEFA Champions League remain Liverpool's top priorities this season, but this result means it's now two defeats in a row for the Reds.

Wolves' impressive record against the top teams this season continues, and they will hope they can go deep into the competition. 

FA Cup 2019: 3rd-Round Results, Scores, Updated Schedule After Sunday's Fixtures

Jan 6, 2019
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 06: Raheem Sterling of Manchester City celebrates with his team mates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the FA Cup Third Round match between Manchester City and Rotherham United at Etihad Stadium on January 6, 2019 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 06: Raheem Sterling of Manchester City celebrates with his team mates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the FA Cup Third Round match between Manchester City and Rotherham United at Etihad Stadium on January 6, 2019 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

Manchester City powered into the fourth round of the 2019 FA Cup after hitting seven goals past Championship side Rotherham United on Sunday.

City will be joined in the next round by fellow Premier League side Watford, who won 2-0 away at Woking on a day otherwise unkind to the big clubs.

Leicester City and Fulham were the top-flight fall guys after both lost to League Two opposition, with Fulham beaten 2-1 by Oldham Athletic at Craven Cottage.

Meanwhile, 2016 Premier League champions Leicester lost by the same scoreline away to Newport County, with Padraig Amond scoring the winner from the penalty spot in the 85th minute.

Newport County's Irish striker Padraig Amond scores their second goal from the penalty spot during the English FA Cup third round football match between Newport County and Leicester City at Rodney Parade in Newport, south Wales on January 6, 2019. (Photo
Newport County's Irish striker Padraig Amond scores their second goal from the penalty spot during the English FA Cup third round football match between Newport County and Leicester City at Rodney Parade in Newport, south Wales on January 6, 2019. (Photo

There was arguably an even bigger upset when non-league Barnet won 1-0 away to Championship outfit Sheffield United in a classic cup giant-killing.

Elsewhere, Queens Park Rangers, Millwall and Doncaster Rovers all made it through.

There's only one third-round tie left as Premier League leaders Liverpool travel to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night. The draw for the next round will take place after the game at Molineux.

Sunday's Scores

  • Fulham 1-2 Oldham Athletic
  • Manchester City 7-0 Rotherham United
  • Millwall 2-1 Hull City
  • Preston North End 1-3 Doncaster Rovers
  • Queens Park Rangers 2-1 Leeds United
  • Sheffield United 0-1 Barnet
  • Woking 0-2 Watford
  • Newport County 2-1 Leicester City

Monday's Schedule

  • Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Liverpool, 7:45 p.m. GMT/2:45 p.m. ET

Seven different players got on the scoresheet during City's goal rush at the Etihad Stadium. Only six of them played for the hosts as Nigeria international defender Semi Ajayi turned into his own net to make it 3-0 in first-half stoppage time.

Raheem Sterling and precocious 18-year-old Phil Foden had already found the net for City. The latter's goal was a landmark one in his burgeoning career:

Gabriel Jesus added a fourth seven minutes after the restart. The Brazilian had spurned several earlier chances but eventually kept up an impressive run across all competitions:

Riyad Mahrez, Nicolas Otamendi and Leroy Sane wrapped up the scoring for the Citizens, who eased through the gears in impressive fashion.

Fulham's miserable season took another depressing turn after a team from the bottom tier of English league football left west London with a famous win.

Callum Lang's 88th-minute header sent the Latics through, but only after several moments of drama from the penalty spot. Oldham had drawn level 12 minutes earlier when Sam Surridge cancelled out Denis Odoi's opener by converting a spot-kick.

The Cottagers were given the chance to spare their blushes late on when Aleksandar Mitrovic stepped up from 12 yards, but Daniel Iversen was Oldham's hero with a clutch save.

There was more than a little contention about the decision to award Fulham's penalty after midfielder Tom Cairney had gone down in the area:

Oldham rubbed salt in the wound when Lang netted the winner shortly after Iversen's stop.

A 21st-minute penalty was all it took for Barnet to leave the Blades stunned. Shaquile Coulthirst kept his nerve from 12 yards ahead of a stubborn rearguard action from the Bees.

The Blades ultimately paid for the decision to rest key players, most notably leading goalscorer skipper Billy Sharp. His 65th-minute introduction from the bench proved too little too late for a United side condemned to repeating a moment of infamy from over a century ago:

Leicester were rocked as early as the 10th minute when Jamille Matt got his head to a cross from Robbie Willmott to give Newport the lead. Powerhouse centre-forward Matt gave an experienced Foxes back line a torrid time as the hosts stayed direct and kept the ball in the air.

The Foxes tried to up the pace of play, but neither Shinji Okazaki nor Kelechi Iheanacho could make their quality count in the final third.

It took Rachid Ghezzal to thunder in the equaliser nine minutes from time, but Newport refused to be beaten. The home side were awarded a penalty when Marc Albrighton handled in the box, leaving Amond to be coolness personified from the spot.

Earlier, Will Hughes and Troy Deeney scored the goals as Watford handled a tricky trip to National League side Woking with discipline and patience. The Hornets rested key players such as winger Gerard Deulofeu and playmaker Roberto Pereyra, but they still had enough quality up top to wear down their semi-professional opponents.

A quick-fire brace from substitute Shane Ferguson was enough for Millwall to beat Hull at The Den. The 2004 finalists are joined in the next round by a QPR side fresh from beating Championship leaders Leeds United at Loftus Road.

An Aramide Oteh penalty put the hosts in front before Leeds equalised through Aapo Halme. QPR didn't buckle, though, and scored the winner 15 minutes from time when Jake Bidwell headed home.

WOKING, ENGLAND - JANUARY 06:  Paul Hodges of Woking is challenged by Troy Deeney of Watford during the FA Cup Third Round match between Woking and Watford at Kingfield Stadium on January 6, 2019 in Woking, United Kingdom.  (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty
WOKING, ENGLAND - JANUARY 06: Paul Hodges of Woking is challenged by Troy Deeney of Watford during the FA Cup Third Round match between Woking and Watford at Kingfield Stadium on January 6, 2019 in Woking, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty

John Marquis got Doncaster started at Deepdale but Andrew Hughes equalised for Preston 11 minutes after the restart. League One Rovers eventually powered ahead against their Championship hosts thanks to goals from Tom Anderson and Mallik Wilks.

A day of upsets should inspire Wolves to believe they can make home advantage count against an impressive Liverpool side on Monday.

Wolves vs. Liverpool: FA Cup 2019 Odds, Live Stream, TV Info

Jan 6, 2019
Liverpool's coach Juergen Klopp speaks to his player after his team lost the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester City and Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, England, Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019.(AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
Liverpool's coach Juergen Klopp speaks to his player after his team lost the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester City and Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, England, Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019.(AP Photo/Dave Thompson)

Liverpool will be in action on Monday, when they travel to Molineux to face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the FA Cup's third round.

The Reds got unlucky with their draw, as they face a solid Premier League side at such an early stage in the competition. Oddschecker shows bookmakers have them as the 17-20 favourites to advance, while Wolves come in at 7-2. A draw carries odds of 14-5.

BBC (UK) will provide full coverage and live-streaming options, while American fans can stream the contest via ESPN+. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. GMT/2:45 p.m. ET.

                     

Rest for the Reds?

Liverpool's unbeaten start to the Premier League campaign finally came to an end in their most recent outing, as defending champions Manchester City ran out to a 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium to decrease the gap at the top of the standings.

With four points separating the two, the Reds are in for a serious fight in the second half of the season. Add to that a UEFA Champions League last-16 tie with Bayern Munich, who ended the first half of the season on fire, and Liverpool suddenly have a lot on their plate.

Monday's fixture could be the perfect opportunity for manager Jurgen Klopp to rest some of his key men. According to sports writer Chris Bascombe, there are indications the German plans on doing just that:

The FA Cup should not be a top priority for the Reds given their strong Premier League form and desire to win that trophy. The visit to Brighton & Hove on Saturday could prove tricky, so it might be a good idea to focus on that match instead.

WhoScored.com expects Klopp to stick with Virgil van Dijk and Dejan Lovren at the back on Monday, though, with injuries limiting his options.

Wolves have won just one of their past four Premier League outings and sit well behind the top teams in the race for a European ticket. They are far more likely to focus on the FA Cup and have received a major boost with the return of star attacker Diogo Jota, who is on pace to start:

The likes of Daniel Sturridge and Simon Mignolet have impressed during their limited opportunities this season, and even if Klopp rotates his squad, the Reds have a solid chance of advancing. Wolves have an excellent team, however, and this could be a cracking game.

Prediction: Wolves 2-3 Liverpool