3 Talking Points before the game between Arsenal and Manchester United

#2 Inclusion of Sokratis

The Greek Wall

The Gooners are in absolute delight to have the Greek defender play for his side, as he has arguably been Arsenal's best player this season, only behind Torreira. Sokratis, with his strength and quick feet, has upset the best of forwards, including the likes of Harry Kane and Eden Hazard, this season.

The reason why the inclusion of Sokratis in tomorrow's game will play a huge part is that Manchester United had zero shots on target in the first 30 minutes of the game when they last faced Arsenal at the Emirates in the FA Cup. But Sokratis got himself injured in the 30th minute and the home side conceded in the very next minute, as Alexis Sanchez beat Cech to open the scoring.

Just 2 minutes later, Arsenal once again conceded through a counter-attack but this time, the scorer was Lingard. My point is, they didn't have a single shot on target when Sokratis was on the pitch, but as soon as he left they blasted 2 goals past Arsenal's feeble defence line.

Unfortunately, Koscienly got injured as well in the second half and Arsenal had no chance coming back into the tie. They created chances, but with their only two quality center backs sidelined, they had no control during counter attacks and they got outclassed due to it.

Arsenal's defence will rely on Koscienly and Sokratis to put up an enthralling performance tonight because only when a team's defence is strong, their forwards have the freedom to attack more often and without much pressure.