Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed that number one goalkeeper Petr Cech will start in the Capital One Cup tie against Sheffield Wednesday.
Wenger has also said that vice-captain Per Mertesacker will return to action after missing their Premier League game against Everton on Saturday. It gives a star-studded look to Arsenal’s defence although Wenger has ruled out Ospina, Ramsey, Arteta, Wilshere, Rosicky and Welbeck through injury.
The news comes on the same day that Owls’ gaffer Carlos Carvalhal that he will not be taking unnecessary risks for the glamour fourth-round tie. Sheffield Wednesday will be starting 19 year-old Joe Wildsmith in goal rather than risking Keiren Westwood.
Carvalhal said: “Glenn Loovens and Sam Hutchinson have small pains and will be assessed tomorrow.” This was before he rated the Owls’ chances of progressing to the next round as 10%, but he mentioned the difference the fans could make.
Sheffield Wednesday forward Lucas Joao is also in contention, after a traumatising night against Rotherham United on Friday, with the Owls’ manger telling the media:
“He has a new tooth. It’s nicer than the old one!”
Both teams go into the fourth round clash in great form with Sheffield Wednesday on a eight-game unbeaten run in all competitions. Arsenal come into the game on the back of four straight wins; including Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Everton.
Sheffield Wednesday face Arsenal in the Capital One Cup fourth round on 27 September (19.45 KO).
