FA Cup preview: Wolves host Liverpool rematch as Arsenal visit Mansfield
Wolves are aiming for a second victory over Liverpool in four days while Arsenal prepare to utilise their squad depth against Mansfield in the FA Cup fifth round.
Rob Edwards’ side welcome the Premier League champions back to Molineux on Friday night, fresh from a stunning 2-1 league victory over the same opponents on Tuesday.
While the Old Gold remain in a battle for top-flight survival, their recent form has revitalised a campaign that once looked destined for relegation.
Wolves have lost just once in their last five matches, a run that includes a victory over Aston Villa and a hard-fought draw against league leaders Arsenal.
With survival still a steep challenge given the limited fixtures remaining, the FA Cup represents a significant opportunity to salvage a memorable moment from a difficult season.
Arteta eyes rotation against Stags
Arsenal travel to Field Mill on Saturday to face a Mansfield Town side sitting 54 places below them in the football pyramid.
The fixture provides a crucial opportunity for Mikel Arteta to rotate his squad ahead of a demanding schedule that includes four games in 12 days and the upcoming Carabao Cup final.
Christian Norgaard is expected to anchor the midfield in place of Martin Zubimendi, who has played more minutes than any other Gunners player this season.
Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori is another senior figure likely to start as he seeks rhythm and match fitness.
There could also be a showcase for the club’s academy, with Max Dowman fit again following injury, though Myles Lewis-Skelly is unavailable due to suspension.
Despite the likely changes, the depth of quality available to the north London club makes them overwhelming favourites to progress.
Hollywood upset on the cards?
Saturday evening sees the focus shift to the Racecourse Ground as Wrexham host Chelsea in a tie that has captured global attention.
The Welsh side will be hoping the magic of the cup can help bridge the gap to their Premier League visitors in what is being billed as a potential Hollywood-script upset.
Elsewhere in the fifth round, Newcastle United face a heavyweight clash against Manchester City at St James’ Park.
The weekend’s action also features a London derby between West Ham and Brentford, while Leeds United take on Norwich City.
