3 talking points ahead of Arsenal vs Crystal Palace

2. A mixed lineup

With this being a crucial game, Mikel Arteta is likely to start a mixture of experienced and youth players against Palace. He has relied on the likes of Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly so far in the competition so this will be a pair he is likely to turn to again on Wednesday.

It is important that Arsenal do not overload their XI with crucial players, especially with the somewhat injury crisis they currently find themselves in. However, there will be no harm in Arteta including some of his preferred names in order to put Palace to the sword.

It is likely the Gunners' lineup will consist of a range of players in terms of age and experience, but with the ambitions of reaching the next round and eventually winning the tournament, fans should be prepared to forgive Arteta for his decisions. The game also offers a chance for Lewis-Skelly to compete and keep his name on the team sheet, having started his side's last two games. Nwaneri will also look to profit from a more significant amount of minutes.

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