Here is what Arsenal need to do to save their season; starting against Everton in the FA Cup

Arsenal v Everton Match Preview -Time To Focus

Arsenal face a test of their silverware-challenging credentials when they welcome Everton to the Emirates in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday lunchtime. Everton had already pinched a point off Arsenal earlier in the season when the Toffees drew 1-1 here in December. 

Roberto Martínez was the last manager to win the FA Cup, with Wigan when they stunned Manchester City in last year’s final, so he is no stranger to upsets when it comes to this competition.

He has transformed an Everton side flourishing under his essence and the loan signings of Gareth Barry, Romelu Lukaku and Gerard Deulofeu have certainly increased the club’s chances for a European spot this season. Ross Barkley has burst on to the scene this season with eye-catching performances against Arsenal and Chelsea respectively. He is one of many out there to stake a claim in the England squad and attempt to become one of the country’s greatest talents and although Everton have never won at the Emirates Stadium, they are unbeaten against the North London side in the last three meetings.

Coming off the back off a mediocre defeat at Stoke, there are still reasons for optimism around the Emirates. Arsenal, who have played every single round of FA Cup football at home this year, have been buoyed by the return to form of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The 20-year-old has had a positive effect on the Gunners, the injection of pace has justified why he is such a crucial player in this team.

Arsenal’s last defeat at the Emirates to an English side dates back to the beginning of the season when Aston Villa triumphed 3-1, so there are still reasons to be positive. This is a huge game for Arsenal, particularly as many say that this is their greatest chance for a trophy, a big performance is needed to boost morale, as we face many tough games over the next month. Mesut Özil and Santi Cazorla will need to be at their best to keep this Everton team busy.

Arsenal were dealt another key blow as Jack Wilshere was injured on international duty, he will be out for the next eight weeks with a broken foot. Mathieu Flamini could feature after being rested at Stoke, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Yaya Sanogo may start.

Phil Jagielka is a major doubt for Everton having missed England’s 1-0 victory over Denmark but Antolin Alcaraz could return after missing the last six games through muscle strain.

I expect Everton to give this a real go as Arsenal have struggled against Everton over the last couple of seasons. Their fast fluent attacking passing game will be their main plan of action, while danger men Ross Barkley, Gerard Deulofeu and Romelu Lukaku will look to push Arsenal into making errors.

Arsenal will be no pushovers though. I’d expect Mesut Özil and Santi Cazorla to come in field a lot playing one touch football and looking to inject that killer pass at any time. But this game will be a great contest, two teams who love to play the beautiful game properly, with pace, athleticism and willingness.

Thanks guys,

Alex Burns

Follow @Alexarsenal9

Alex Burns

Occasional writer who follows the Arsenal home and away. Dennis is our greatest ever.