By Daily Sports Nigeria on January 11, 2025

Former Premier League forward Shaun Bartlett is anticipating a surprise result this weekend when Arsenal face-off with Manchester United in arguably the tie of the third round in the FA Cup.

The South African ex-footballer, who played for Charlton Athletic in the Premier League, expects United to progress to the next round despite their struggles this season.

“This game is lined up for a surprise result, and I feel United will sneak a win this weekend,” Bartlett told Showmax this week.

The game, slated for the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, will be shown live on Showmax Premier League at 5 pm.

Bartlett says Ruben Amorim’s men can take plenty of encouragement from their game against Liverpool when they head to the Emirates this weekend.

United claimed a precious point at Anfield last weekend when they shocked league leaders Liverpool in a 2-2 draw.

Not many expected United to get anything from the game, but the Red Devils showed what they are capable of under the Portuguese manager.

“The performance should give them confidence knowing that they didn’t become a bad team overnight and can still compete and surprise a few people,” said Bartlett.

While Bartlett admits Arsenal go into the tie as favourites, he is confident United can once again spring a surprise.

“I believe Arsenal will always be favourites at home, but United have shown that they can compete with their showing against Man City and Liverpool recently. Both games United played have shown glimpses of improvement, both away from home (Etihad and Anfield). It almost seems like they play better when not under pressure from their home fans.”

He is also expecting plenty of goal-mouth action in the fixture.

“Games between these two very seldom produce fewer than two goals per game, that is why  I feel there will be goals in this game but not as feisty as past seasons.”

Liverpool will host Accrington Stanley, Chelsea welcome Morecambe to Stamford Bridge at 4 pm while Manchester City will face Salford City at 6:45 pm.

Source Punch Ng

Posted January 11, 2025

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