AFTER a bumper fixture list on New Year’s Day, attention has turned to the FA Cup.
The first weekend of January traditionally hosts the third round in which Premier League and Championship clubs begin their challenge.
Arsenal vs Leeds
THIS could very well be a Premier League fixture next year.
That is if Arsenal stop their slide down the league table. Joking.
Leeds under Marcelo Bielsa are in pole position for a return to the top-flight for the first time since 2004 – and it’s a very different place to when they left it.
The Whites play a terrific, high-octane 3-4-3 under the Argentine, which has seen them occupy the automatic promotion places for most of the campaign.
How that style works in the top-flight though is a complete mystery – so this will be a good test for both Leeds and their long-suffering fanbase.
Arsenal are Arsenal, where do you start?
Mikel Arteta is now at the helm and silverware would be a welcome distraction from what has been a pretty horrendous season at the Emirates.
But this is a very tricky tie and the Spaniard would have hoped for something easier on home soil.
It’s got shock written all over it – remember Jermaine Beckford netting in front of the Stretford End back in 2010? Yep, that level of shock.
Prime time viewing on BBC, Leeds will want to put on a show.
And the over 3.5 goals is in serious play here – we’re expecting fireworks.
Arsenal simply can’t defend and the Whites shipped four at Birmingham just last week. Crank that one up with confidence at 6/4.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with the 4/1 on a Leeds win, but it shows how bad Arsenal have been this season that it’s that low against a side from the Championship.
For comparison, Nottingham Forest were 16/1 to beat Chelsea.
In a game where we can guarantee goals, an away victory at 13/2 with both teams scoring seems of more value.
Seriously, this could end up as anything – but with thousands flocking down from Yorkshire, we reckon this might be a dress rehearsal that ends in smiles for the men from up north.
But just in case you’re not willing to trust the Championship club fully, a punt on Leeds to win either half at 17/10 is the sensible bet of the night.
SunSport’s best bets
Over 3.5 goals at the Emirates: 6/4
Yorkshire side to win either half: 17/10
Leeds to shock Arsenal with both teams scoring: 13/2
*All odds correct at time of publication
