Arsenal vs Blackburn Rovers FA Cup preview: Wenger to rest some key players

Arsenal vs Blackburn Rovers FA Cup match falls in line before the Gunners meet Bayern Munich in the round of 16 of the Champions League. The Gunners overcame Sunderland with a lone goal from Cazorla in their last match while Rovers are coming from a draw with Brighton. Arsene Wenger is reportedly looking to rest some of the players for this encounter.

Arsenal FC has been plagued by fitness issues as Thomas Vermaelen, midfielder Jack Wilshere, and defender Laurent Koscielny have been ruled out due to injuries. Kieran Gibbs is also out with a thigh injury and full-back Carl Jenkinson is suspended after being sent-off during the Gunners’ win against Sunderland.

Blackburn Rovers have had three different managers this season, which might be among the reasons of its current form. Steve Kean resigned in September with Blackburn at the third position. After Kean’s departure the Rovers have fallen to the eighth position. Michael Appleton, the current manager, would be hoping for an upset victory.

Theo Walcott, Aaron Ramsey, Santi Cazorla and Oliver Girourd are likely to be rested while Abou Diaby, Gervinho, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Tomas Rosicky and Lukas Podolski may come in as Arsene Wenger keeps his eye on the Champions League encounter with Bayern Munich. Blackburn, on the other hand, would play a full-strength side.

Arsenal FC and Blackburn Rovers’ recent encounters have been filled with goals as their last two matches accounted for 15 goals. Blackburn’s Jordan Rhodes has been in terrific form scoring seven goals in his last seven matches. Walcott, who might not feature in this game has also been in prime touch.

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