MOT View: Owen prediction for Leeds clash v Arsenal shows potential overreaction to one factor
Leeds United will be the first team that Arsenal will face in the cup since Mikel Arteta took charge in North London.
Things haven’t changed massively in terms of results, with his one win being matched by another defeat against Chelsea.
A common theme in those games has been the clear loss of energy as the Gunners tend to tire in the final third of the clash – something Leeds could take advantage of.
Michael Owen has made his prediction for the clash and isn’t the first to heap praise on the Gunners since the appointment of Arteta.
“Arsenal were more like the Gunners of old when they brushed aside Manchester United at the Emirates last time out and I would be surprised if they were not able to follow up against a Leeds side whose priority must be a return to the Premier League,” he wrote for BetVictor.
“Mikel Arteta does appear to be getting more out of Mesut Ozil than the previous manager and the German playmaker was a revelation against United.
“There appears to be more passion and belief around Arsenal at present and I believe they will pass what promises to be a real test from a Leeds side who have picked up four points from difficult trips to Birmingham and West Brom in recent days.”
Marcelo Bielsa has been in charge for a year and a half at Elland Road, and this will be the first big cup clash of his reign. The South American will be relishing the opportunity to test his side against a Premier League team they may well face next season.
Many will be hoping that all the praise for Arteta could be an overreaction to say how long he has been in charge at the Emirates. Leeds could take advantage of that, and only time will tell whether or not the Spaniard is as good as the praise he is receiving.
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