Starting XI: Preston Vs. Arsenal Team News

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Post on Oct 31, 2024

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Starting XI: Preston vs. Arsenal Team News - FA Cup Clash

The FA Cup's third round brings a classic clash as Preston North End host Arsenal at Deepdale. With the Gunners looking to defend their title, and the Lilywhites seeking a cup upset, this tie is sure to be a tense encounter.

Here's a look at the key team news and predicted starting lineups for both sides:

Preston North End Team News

Injury Concerns:

• Ryan Ledson: The midfielder is a doubt for the match after suffering a hamstring injury in their last game.
• Ali McCann: Another crucial midfield presence, McCann faces a late fitness test with a knock.
• Ched Evans: The striker is still out with a knee injury and will be unavailable for selection.

Potential Return:

• Emil Riis: The Danish forward is nearing a return from a long-term injury and could be involved in the squad.

Key Players to Watch:

• Ben Whiteman: Preston's captain and midfield engine, Whiteman will need to be at his best to control the game.
• Troy Parrott: The on-loan Tottenham striker has been in impressive form and will look to cause Arsenal problems.

Arsenal Team News

Injuries:

• Gabriel Jesus: The Brazilian striker is still recovering from a knee injury and is unlikely to feature.
• Reiss Nelson: The winger has a hamstring problem and is expected to miss out.

Potential Returns:

• Emile Smith Rowe: The attacking midfielder has returned to training after a long spell on the sidelines. His fitness is being assessed.
• Mohamed Elneny: The Egyptian midfielder has been sidelined with a long-term injury but could be back in contention.

Key Players to Watch:

• Bukayo Saka: The England international is in scintillating form and will be a major threat to Preston.
• Martin Ødegaard: The Norwegian playmaker dictates Arsenal's rhythm and will be crucial in unlocking Preston's defence.

Predicted Starting XIs:

Preston North End (4-4-2):

• GK: Freddie Woodman
• RB: Greg Cunningham
• CB: Bambo Diaby
• CB: Andrew Hughes
• LB: Liam Lindsay
• RM: Ryan Hardie
• CM: Ben Whiteman
• CM: Alan Browne
• LM: Daniel Johnson
• ST: Troy Parrott
• ST: Will Keane

Arsenal (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 Points to Consider:

• Preston's Home Advantage: Deepdale is known for its passionate atmosphere, and Preston will be hoping to use the home crowd to their advantage.
• Arsenal's Rotation: With the Premier League and Champions League commitments, Mikel Arteta is likely to rotate his squad.
• Cup Set-Piece Specialists: Preston are renowned for their set-piece expertise and could cause Arsenal problems from dead-ball situations.

This FA Cup clash promises to be a fascinating encounter. Preston will be confident of causing an upset, while Arsenal will be determined to advance to the next round. With a blend of attacking talent and defensive solidity, the Gunners will start as favorites, but Preston will be no pushovers.