Sunderland had enjoyed the first sight of goal in the third minute when Duncan Watmore threaded the ball through to Lens – playing as the most attack-minded of the central midfield trio – who fired wide from 20 yards. When asked what impact the midweek Premier League games will have on the FA Cup, he replied: “None, I don’t see why the FA Cup should be ostracised or be neglected because of the Premier League”. It’s a shame really, because it’s a trophy, one of the few major honours available to win and as much as being in competitions that provide money are great, football is still, and always will be about winning trophies.
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Kirchhoff’s arrival is more uncertain, as despite Bayern Munich accepting an offer of around €1m for the injury-troubled 25-year-old, the defender is understood to be keen to keep his options open until later in the transfer window.
Sam Allardyce made seven changes for the FA Cup tie against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, but surprised many by naming a stronger than expected side.
Arsenal finally edged in front with 18 minutes remaining as Bellerin played a neat one-two with Campbell and sent in a low cross for Ramsey – who had only been on the field for five minutes – to stab home.
Premier League leaders Arsenal are seeking to become the first team to win three FA Cups in a row since Blackburn Rovers between 1884 and 1886.
Southampton and Newcastle both fell at the first hurdle, but could at least console themselves that they were beaten by fellow Premier League teams.
“Even if you play a club in the Premier League, the element of the away fans changes for FA Cup games”. “We can go far in the FA Cup and hopefully we can win it”, says goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, whose side continue to flounder in 14th place in the league.
“That’s diabolical. Why put one in there?” We have to play all three away games to begin with.
Sam Allardyce has praised Wes Brown’s contribution in Sunderland’s last two Barclays Premier League fixtures over the festive period.
And Arsenal are the same.
Exeter memorably held Manchester United to a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford 11 years ago and manager Paul Tisdale, who joined the club a year later, has vowed that they will not be overawed by Liverpool. So much emphasis has also been put on Champions League qualification for the teams at the top, whilst those nearer the bottom focus on staying in a league that brings such high revenue.
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So we end up with two under-strength sides turning out in the football equivalent of the episode of Father Ted when Ireland decide they can’t afford to host the Eurovision Song content anymore and pick Craggy Island’s finest to represent them.
