Arsenal face Southampton in their FA Cup fourth-round tie on Saturday evening, and Arsene Wenger has taken a huge risk with his starting line-up.
Liverpool came unstuck against Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier in the day for similar tactics, but it hasn’t stopped the Gunners from going with a much-changed side.
Wenger, who won’t be touchline as he serves the first match of his suspension, has opted to bring in Rob Holding in the centre of his defence, while Ainsley Maitland-Niles will play in midfield along with Jeff Reine-Adelaide in a more advanced position.
Elsewhere, there’s a welcome start for Danny Welbeck, his first since May as he has gradually continued his recovery from a serious knee injury, and he will be supported by Theo Walcott and Lucas Perez on the flanks.
That of course means that Wenger has finally convinced Alexis Sanchez to be rested with the Chilean international on the bench, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will play in a midfield role.
It’s still a strong side from Arsenal’s perspective, and with Southampton also making several changes, it remains to be seen who prevails in what should be a very intriguing cup clash.
Here it is – our team for today's @EmiratesFACup fourth-round match#SFCvAFC pic.twitter.com/Q0hL5MGYPb
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) January 28, 2017
The teams are in!
Here's how #SaintsFC line-up for their #EmiratesFACup clash with #Arsenal: pic.twitter.com/sHx4r00nZr
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) January 28, 2017