Arsenal v Birmingham City – Carling Cup Final – Preview & Expected Line-up

Preview

The first final Arsenal have been involved in since 2007, and only our 2nd appearance at the new Wembley. Disappointing stats, but Sunday will be a chance to set the record straight, to end the trophy drought, and bring back the first trophy in nearly 6 years.

This season, Wenger has changed his Carling Cup philosophy of previous years. Usually, this is a competition where Wenger gives his Young Guns a chance to shine. This time, it’s the Big Guns who have worked their way into the new Wembley, and massive favourites to walk away with medals.

In the last four matches, Arsenal have won 3 and drawn 1. But that doesn’t paint the whole picture. There has been a little rivalry between these two clubs in recent years. In the 2007-08 season, Birmingham managed to hold on to draws both home and away. Arsenal fans may also remember the fateful day in February 2008 when Martin Taylor broke Eduardo’s leg that pretty much ended his Arsenal career. Some Arsenal fans cite this as the reason that Arsenal did not go on to win the league that year.

History aside, the game is set to be a thriller. Arsenal will be the favourites on the day, but Alex McLeish will do everything in his power to stop a Gooner victory.

Predicted starting line-up:

Szczesny
Sagna Djourou Koscielny Clichy
Wilshere Song Rosicky
Arshavin Van Persie Nasri

Predicted score-line:

Arsenal 2 – 1 Birmingham

Enjoy the day Gooners! Over and out.