It’s FA Cup time, and a chance to rest the regulars

With a FA Cup match on the horizon for Monday against League One’s Oxford United, one would assume Mikel Arteta will rest most of his top players, but will have them available on the bench if needed. Am I right, or not?

I think this break comes at the right time for the Gunners. With ten days to rest before traveling a few miles to Tottenham Coldspur on the 15th, this is a good time for our regular to take a little breather, recover, regroup and re-energize for the important North London Derby. As we know, the matches will come fast and furious in the weeks ahead.

Of course, we all want to win the match v Oxford United. Success in the FA Cup is in the Arsenal DNA. No club has won the Cup more times than Arsenal, so the significance of this tournament for the Gunners can not be overlooked. However, in my opinion, Arsenal has the best second line in the Premier League, so there really isn’t a significant amount of drop-off in quality.

Emile Smith Rowe should make his season debut following a long lay-off due to injury. On the other hand, Cedric Soares will probably not be available since he is looking at a transfer to Fulham.

So, with that said, I think Mikel Arteta will start the following XI on Monday at Kassam Stadium, or do you think he should mix in a few of the regular starters? Thoughts?

[4-2-3-1]

Nketiah

Smith Rowe, Vieira, Marquinhos

Elneny, Lokonga

Tierney, Gabriel, Holding, Tomiyasu

Turner

Predicted final score: Oxford United 0 – ARSENAL 2

COYG!

Gunner1953