Football: Gerrard confident ahead of Arsenal tie
By Ben James, dpa
London (dpa) - Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes his side's impressive recent form will give them the advantage over Arsenal when the giants meet in the pick of Saturday's FA Cup 3rd round ties.
"The draw could have been kinder, but the important thing is we are at home," the England midfielder said.
"They will be fearing the tie more than we will. They are a top side with top players and we know it's going to be a very difficult game."
With both sides some way off the pace in the Premiership, the Cup takes on an increased significance, and with 14 wins and two draws from 16 matches at Anfield this season, Liverpool begin as firm favourites.
"But we have proved we can beat anybody at Anfield and I'm sure it's going to be a terrific match this weekend," Gerrard went on. "We are certainly all looking forward to it.
"We have got a really strong squad, we are playing well at the moment and I fancy us to be in the draw for the fourth round."
Premiership leaders Manchester United host Aston Villa, whose winless run now extends to 10 matches.
Villa have, though, been boosted by Crystal Palace's decision to allow them to field on-loan goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly in the game.
That relieves some of the pressure on an injury-ravaged squad, but forward Gabriel Agbonlahor will again be asked to play despite an ankle problem.
"We have been tested to the limit and Gabriel in the last two games has played through the pain barrier," said manager Martin O'Neill.
"In normal circumstances we would rest him, but the opportunity has not been there. We have less chance to rotate than most."
The other all-Premiership ties see Blackburn travel to Everton and Portsmouth host Wigan.
It would be the upset of all time if League Two side Macclesfield were to beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, despite their recent surge of form under former England midfielder Paul Ince, but there are several ties with genuine shock potential.
Tottenham Hotspur, with a poor away record this season, will not be relishing their trip to Wales to face Cardiff, while Charlton, already humiliated by Wycombe of League Two in the Carling Cup this season, could easily be embarrassed by Nottingham Forest of League One.
Perhaps most intriguing, though, is Newcastle United, still inconsistent and struggling with injuries, and their game away to Championship leaders Birmingham. // © 2006 DPA
Comments