Preston vs Arsenal: Carabao Cup - LIVE!
Arsenal aims to secure their spot in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals this evening. Mikel Arteta has chosen a more robust lineup than anticipated as his team travels to Deepdale to take on Preston, a team well-established in the Championship, in the fourth round. This comes after several promising performances by younger players and those on the edges of the squad during a 5-1 victory over Bolton from the third tier last month.
Arteta is determined to compete for trophies in every possible competition this season and has assembled a strong team for what promises to be a challenging match in Lancashire. Teenage summer recruit Tommy Setford is set to make his debut in goal, while Ethan Nwaneri will get another chance to showcase his talents. Preston secured their place in this tournament by defeating Sunderland and Harrogate, and they also showed great composure during a thrilling penalty shootout against Fulham in the third round.
The Lilywhites, who have played against Arsenal just once since 1999, are going through a challenging season in the Championship, currently occupying 16th place. They recently let a commanding 3-0 lead slip away in a stunning draw with Plymouth over the weekend. In response to that performance, Paul Heckingbottom has made six changes to the lineup for tonight's match. Stay tuned for live updates on Preston vs Arsenal!
Latest Updates on Preston vs Arsenal
52 minutes: Preston is showing a bit more purpose now, but a hopeful shot from Danish winger Okkels is effectively stopped.
On the opposite side, Whatmough's strong defense successfully stops Sterling.
50 mins: Arsenal continues where they left off as the second half begins, but then Preston makes a sudden attack down the left side. They send in a fast cross, which Setford handles confidently, even though he hasn't had a lot to do in his first senior game until now.
Simon Collings from Standard Sport is reporting live from Deepdale.
Just when Preston was starting to think that Arteta might give the younger players a chance, he surprised everyone by bringing on Havertz and Partey right after the break.
Talent valued at slightly more than £100 million.
It was somewhat unexpected to see Arteta substitute both Havertz and Partey in the second half.
Merino and Timber have left the field, and Partey is moving back to the right-back position once more.
Was that the original intention for Timber tonight after he had to leave the match early against Liverpool last weekend?
It appears to be happening again. We're back in action.
Simon Collings from Standard Sport reporting live from Deepdale.
Arsenal was completely in control and truly deserving of their top position.
It was a significant achievement for Jesus, who scored for the first time since January; however, the standout player in that half was Nwaneri.
An outstanding goal to finish off a highly energetic display. Truly exceptional skill.
The Gunners are in complete control at Deepdale following Gabriel Jesus' first goal for Arsenal since January, along with a fantastic shot from young Ethan Nwaneri. They are truly showcasing their dominance.
Preston clearly came in second. Mikel Arteta's team is well on their way to reaching the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.
47 minutes: Setford remains composed as Preston attempts to respond before halftime.
Merino suffered a minor setback for Arsenal, but it’s not anything severe.
44 minutes: Woodman steps off his line just in time to prevent further trouble for Arsenal, as Jesus is nearby.
Preston is down a player as we approach the two-minute mark in the first-half stoppage time.
42 minutes in: Arsenal is firmly in control as the half-time mark nears at Deepdale.
They maintain complete possession of the ball and continue to launch attack after attack, although there haven't been any more clear scoring opportunities since Nwaneri’s powerful shot.
Preston is lacking quality completely, and they are losing ground all over the field.
Simon Collings from Standard Sport reporting from Deepdale
I couldn't help but let out a small shout when Nwaneri made that incredible shot. What an unbelievable goal!
