Preview: FA Cup Quarter Final Weekend

This FA Cup weekend see's two all Premier League fixtures, a repeat of the competitions final last year and the guarantee that at least one side from outside the top flight will reach Wembley!

Arsenal v Everton

Both of these clubs will fancy their chances of winning the FA Cup, the most likely piece of silverware either can expect. Odds of around 7/2 for an away win look good value for Roberto Martinez' side. Arsenal's midfield options have suffered a further blow after Jack Wilshire suffered an injury for England on Wednesday which will keep him out for 6 weeks, whilst Everton's Phil Jagielka is a major doubt.

 

Sheffield United v Charlton Atletic

Charlton have fast become FA Cup experts after 3 straight away victories in the competition.  The club's last 16 win at Hillsborough shattered dreams of a Steel City derby which wold have been the first at Bramall Lane for almost 3 years. Sheffield United last won the competition in 1925 while Charlton's only success came in 1947 with a 1-0 win over Burnley. In 3 FA Cup encounters between the two, Sheffield United remain undefeated and will fancy their chances after knocking out Fulham in round 5.

 

Manchester City v Wigan Athletic

Current FA Cup holders Wigan will be backed by almost 4,000 supporters on Sunday afternoon who will look to inspire Uwe Rosler and his team to another Wembley appearance. City approach this match on the back of their 3-1 victory over Sunderland as they plot their first ever cup double. In truth, however this this Lancashire derby is dressed up, it should really favour the home team with Latics weighing in at 16/1 outsiders. Another Wembley return for Man City looks on the cards.

 

Hull City v Sunderland

Steve Bruce has stressed since the 3rd round that he would target a semi-final fixture. Victory against his old club Sunderland would tee-up Bruce's first match at Wembley as a manager. The Mackems will be dreaming of a double appearance at the national stadium after their League Cup final defeat last weekend. Hull City have never won the FA Cup, with their only semi-final appearance coming in the 1929-1930 season where they were beaten 3-2 (over two legs) by eventual champions Arsenal.