It may be heresy to say this but Arsenal may need to sacrifice this week's Capital One cup tie against West Bromwich Albion this week. After their flying start to the season, I won't mention Aston Villa; some of the Gunners seemed to be running on empty in the second half against Stoke and look in badly need of a rest. I think it would be disrespectful to a solid Baggies outfit, buoyed by a comprehensive win over Sunderland on Saturday, to think that a second string Arsenal could get a result at the Hawthorns. Of course Steve Clarke could also rest some of his players for the upcoming tie but, with no other distractions he may see this as his side's best chance of silverware. (Also on reflection still probably Arsenal's!) On the basis that they should finish comfortably mid table this season I expect West Brom to come out all guns blazing for this tie. Arsenal on the other hand have bigger fish to fry and I expect Arsene Wenger to make at least nine changes from the side that began against Stoke. erge Gnarby will be given another chance to impress and Laurent Koscielny may be needed to partner Thomas Vermaelen simply through lack of numbers. Perhaps the most interesting starter will be Nicklas Bendtner to see if the Danish forward has lost any of his legendary self confidence as well any weight. This is how I see Arsenal's starting XI: Viviano Jenkinson, Vermaelen, Koscielny, Monreal Eisfeld, Arteta, Frimpong Rio, Bendtner, Gnarby Although I do think this is the best side Arsenal can put out under the circumstances I expect West Brom to triumph in a five goal thriller 3-2!
