FA Cup is BACK with Big Guns aiming to claim last remaining trophy this season
- FA Cup returns this weekend with eight teams set to battle for the Cup
- Norwich host United, Mancity travel to Newcastle, Leicester entertain Chelsea
- Sheffield take on Arsenal hoping to salvage a woeful season
- Mental Health and Psychosocial considerations during the COVID-19 pandemic
It is FA Cup weekend with eight teams left in hunt for domestic glory.
With Liverpool confirmed as this year’s Premier League Champions on Thursday, all attention returns to the FA Cup with eight teams all out to salvage something from the season.
This is the first time since the 2005/06 season when the FA Cup’s last eight teams consist of only top-flight clubs.
Manchester City, Chelsea, Leicester City, Sheffield United, Manchester United, Arsenal, Newcastle and Norwich City are set to battle for a place in the semi-finals in this year’s FA Cup, recently dubbed ‘Heads Up Cup’ to support the fight for mental health and awareness in the country.
The semi-finals are set to take on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th July while the final is penciled for August 1st.
Norwich City vs Manchester United
Norwich’s return to action has been dismal with the Canaries recording two defeats against Southampton and Everton.
They are fighting for Premier League survival with their hold on top-flight status appears a bleak endeavor.
When Daniel Farke’s side beat Manchester City back in September last year, many would not expect the Canaries to be at the verge of relegation at this time.
Despite their league turmoils, Norwich have enjoyed an impressive run in the cup, registering wins over Tottenham, Burnley and Preston.
On their quest for glory comes a visiting United side that looks to finding their feet with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Sheffield United.
With Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes putting the pieces together in midfield, the Canaries have a daunting task to keep Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side at bay.
Players to watch:
Norwich FC: Tim Krul
The veteran goalkeeper will be the face to keep the likes of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood at bay.
Manchester United: Marcus Rashford
While the player’s efforts around England continue to attract applause in his push for free school meals, the 22 year old is yet to register a goal since the restart.
However, Rashford has already scored against thrice the Canaries and will be looking to extend his run against them.
VERDICT – Manchester United win
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Sheffield United vs Arsenal
Sheffield United have been among the standout sides this season having flirted with the top four positions throughout the campaign.
The Blades have endured a frustrating restart of the season after their goal-line technology gaffe against Aston Villa before suffering two 3-0 defeats to Newcastle and Manchester United.
Chris Wilder’s side will be fancying their chances against the Gunners who have also endured a torrid restart to the season. The Blades beat Arsenal back in October at Bramall Lane before salvaging a point at the Emirates back in January.
Mikel Arteta’s side come into the fixture with a greater desperation in an attempt to save face of a dismal restart to the season. While they scrapped through to a 2-0 win over Southampton, the performance was not anything to be desired of the 13-time FA Cup winners.
Players to watch:
Sheffield United: Dean Henderson
The on-loan keeper from Manchester United has been the side’s outstanding performer with speculation of a return to Old Trafford high with David de Gea’s performances being put to question time and again.
Arsenal: Pierre Emerick Aubameyang
The forward has failed to register a goal since the restart of the season and his drought clearly showing how much the Gunners rely on the Gabonese striker.
VERDICT – Arsenal win
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Leicester City vs Chelsea
Leicester City has enjoyed a hot-cold campaign this season with the Foxes playing out two draws against relegation-threatened sides since the restart.
Brendan Rodger’s side sits in the third position, one point above a flying Chelsea side that come visiting King Power Stadium on the back of a comprehensive win over Manchester City on Thursday night.
Frank Lampard’s side has looked like a force to be reckoned with since the restart winning their two games since the restart.
Players to watch:
Leicester City: Ben Chilwell
With speculation of a major move to Stamford Bridge, the 23-year old fullback will be hoping to show what the Blues may get when they sign him.
Chelsea: Christian Pulisic
The American has shown the Chelsea faithful what a gem of a player he is and his readiness to fight for a spot in the Blues’ starting lineup next season when Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner arrive.
VERDICT: Leicester City win
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Newcastle United vs Manchester City
With talk of imminent purchase by cash kings in Saudi Arabia, Newcastle has turned on full throttle, claiming four points from a possible six since they returned to the pitch.
The results have all but secured their top-flight status for another season.
The Magpies host a wounded Manchester City who lost away at Stamford Bridge, a result that saw a Liverpool coronation as Premier League Champions.
City will come into the match hungry for silverware and Pep Guardiola’s side will be looking to get something to smile about after a week to forget.
Players to watch:
Newcastle United: Saint-Maximin Allan
The French winger will be looking to inflict more misery on City with his trickery and speed set to put City’s defence on jitters.
Manchester City: Gabriel Jesus
With Sergio Aguero out for the season, the Brazilian will lead the City attack. His awareness and positioning in the opponent’s penalty box will be much needed.
VERDICT: Manchester City win
