Arsenal host Hull City as the two teams once again cross paths in the FA Cup. Coming at the back of a 2-1 win over league leaders Leicester City, Arsenal will be hoping for a convincing performance in the fifth round of the FA Cup tie as they prepare for their Champions League clash against Barcelona on Tuesday.
Arsene Wenger ended his decade long trophy drought at Arsenal following a dramatic win over Hull City at Wembley in 2014. The Gunners went on defend their trophy last season and will be looking to win it for the third consecutive year as they host Steve Bruce’s men at the Emirates.
With Barcelona knocking at their door, it will be interesting to see if Arsene Wenger fields a strong starting eleven against Hull City on Sunday. After hosting the Catalans in the midweek, the Gunners are due to travel to Old Trafford which will compel Arsene Wenger to judiciously rotate his squad in the coming days.
Team News
Arsenal
As confirmed by Arsene Wenger, David Ospina will start for Arsenal ahead of Petr Cech in the FA Cup tie. Both Danny Welbeck and Mohamed Elneny could also start against Hull City.
Possible Starting Eleven: Ospina (GK); Koscielny, Mertesacker, Gibbs, Monreal; Elneny, Coquelin, Walcott, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Ozil; Welbeck
Hull City
Nick Powell is expected to make his debut for Hull City after completing his loan move from Manchester United. Isaac Hayden and Chuba Akpom remain ineligible to play against their parent club.
Possible Starting Eleven: McGregor (GK); Davies, Dawson, Davies, Robertson; Diame, Livermore, Powell, Clucas, Elmohamady; Hernandez
Key Facts
- Hull City have only won one away game against Arsenal in their history.
- Arsenal are undefeated in their last eight home FA Cup fixtures.
- Arsenal and Hull City will meet in the FA Cup tomorrow for the third consecutive season.
- Arsenal are undefeated in their last five meetings with Hull City.
- Arsenal are looking to win their third FA Cup in as many years.
Prediction
Arsenal 2-1 Hull City
Arsene Wenger is expected to rest some of his key players which will give Hull City an opportunity to challenge the current FA Cup holders.
Betting Odds (bet365)
Arsenal – 11/20
Draw 16/5
Hull 6