FA Cup 4th Round: Arsenal-Manchester United Combined XI
The two most successful sides in FA Cup history, Arsenal (13) and Manchester United (12) line-up for a box office clash at the Emirates Stadium for the 4th round of the FA Cup on Saturday.
These two sides have plenty of history, especially in this competition, where we have seen some classics over the years. In fact, over 14 contests, the two sides cannot be split, with each winning 7 games apiece.
The last 3 times Arsenal knocked out Manchester United, they have gone on to win the FA Cup, while United have only lost one of their last 14 Round 4 encounters in the competition.
It's been 5 years since there's been a goalless draw in this encounter. This time around, both sides are loaded with talent and plenty of options to change the game in their favor, and in this article, we name a combined XI from the two sides.
Goalkeeper: David De Gea
'The best in the world?' While that statement could have been considered hyperbole from Manchester United fans a while ago, the Spaniard is cementing his status as the world's best with every passing game.
There are no noticeable weaknesses in his armoury and his importance to his side cannot be understated. Arsenal should just ask their North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur about De Gea, as United's #1 proved to be the difference between United and Spurs when the two sides met recently.
Centre-backs:
Victor Lindelof
While the Swedish centre-back might not have even been considered for this squad at the beginning of this season, he has grown leaps and bounds and has firmly established himself as the most reliable defender for Manchester United.
He has played alongside a number of partners and has displayed great tactical nous and an ability to play the ball out from deep.
Laurent Koscielny
One of the Premier League's best centre-back's when fit, Arsenal will be thrilled to see Koscielny back in the squad ahead of this encounter. The Frenchman scored against Chelsea recently and will come into this game high on confidence.