AFTER a weekend of shocks in the FA Cup, it's unlikely Arsenal will take their tie at Oxford United anything but extremely professionally.
Mikel Arteta has of course targeted Premier League glory this season and they remain in a great position despite Manchester City clawing back two points on their last round of fixtures when the frustrated Gunners couldn't find a way past a resolute Newcastle United defence.
But the fate of Newcastle United and Aston Villa – who were both dumped out of the FA Cup at the weekend – will show Arsenal there are no easy ties against lower league opposition.
Teamsheets are important and Arteta has vowed to play a strong team on Arsenal's first ever visit to the Kassam Stadium, but it's worth pointing out their next game is the North London Derby at Spurs, so changes look inevitable.
League One Oxford are in mid-table and will fancy this. Manager Karl Robinson has vowed not to change his attacking philosophy for the visit of the Gunners and that should lead to an entertaining cup tie.
Oxford have so far defeated non-league Woking and Exeter City to reach this stage and they will enjoy the encounter.
How the bookies view it
Arsenal are always going to be unbackable except to the huge hitters for a game like this and bet365's 2/11 is the best price available.
Oxford United are 16/1 with Wiliam Hill and the draw is 39/5 with SBK.
Recent head to heads
It's 20 years since the sides clashed in any competition and Arsenal won 2-0 that day in the FA Cup. As stated it's Arsenal's first visit since Oxford left the Manor Ground.
Players to watch
Matty Taylor has scored six goals for Oxford this season including one in the FA Cup against Exeter. He is 24/5 with William Hill to score.
Arsenal could start with Eddie Nketiah again after he netted three in three games before drawing a blank against Newcastle United. He is evens with Boylesports.
Anything else catch the eye?
We've got to assume Karl Robinson will maintain his promise to have a go and if he does, it should lead to a tie with entertainment at both ends.
With Oxford at home and with nothing to lose, they are both taking a chance of them scoring and Arsenal going on to get the job done. The 13/8 with Betfred on Arsenal to win and both teams to score seems a solid one.
The other obvious shout is SBK's 13/11 for over 3.5 goals and an Arsenal win. That allows for Arsenal to run amok, which isn't impossible due to the obvious gulf in class.
This FA Cup match between Oxford United and Arsenal will be played on Jan 9, 2023 and kick off at 20:00. Check below for our tipsters best Oxford United vs Arsenal prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
