League Cup [Preview]: Arsenal vs Norwich City

Arsenal host Championship club Norwich City in the fourth round of the League Cup on Tuesday night. The Gunners bagged a thumping 5-2 triumph over Everton on Sunday afternoon, and this has pushed to fifth in the Premier League standings with 16 points – just behind Chelsea on goal difference. Meanwhile, the Canaries continued their strong start to their league campaign after going through an eighth successive game without defeat. Daniel Farke’s side secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town yesterday.

Previous outing:

Premier League – The last meeting between the clubs was at the Emirates in 2016 where the Gunners secured a 1-0 triumph. Norwich managed to contain the hosts for much of the first period, but they eventually lost a game via Danny Welbeck’s opener in the 59th minute.

Players to watch for:

Olivier Giroud – Arsenal: The France international has been a regular substitute in the Premier League, but he has nevertheless had an impact in other competitions. Giroud recently notched a stunning overhead kick to grab a 1-0 Europa League win over Red Star Belgrade, and he will once again hope to make an impact in a competition, which assures him of a regular starting spot.

Nelson Oliviera – Norwich City: The Portuguese footballer has racked five goals in the Championship this term despite being restricted to just four league starts. The 26-year-old has the tendency to try long-range shots, and he could prove a menace for Matt Macey, who is likely to make his professional debut for the Gunners in goal.

Prediction:

Arsene Wenger rarely regards the League Cup seriously, and he could once again fill the bench with his development squad players. Despite this, they should have quality in the first XI to beat an in-form Norwich side. Backing Jack Wilshere to put in another strong performance. Arsenal 2-1 Norwich City

Image – Getty