Arsenal and Tottenham have been drawn against each other in the EFL Cup quarter-finals, setting up a north London derby at the Emirates Stadium in the week commencing December 17. The draw follows both teams' fourth-round victories, with Arsenal defeating Blackpool and Tottenham overcoming West Ham.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace will face Middlesbrough in the fourth round, with manager Roy Hodgson expected to field a weakened side. Max Meyer, Jason Puncheon, Jairo Riedewald, Martin Kelly, Alexander Sorloth and Jordan Ayew are all set to feature, while key players Wilfried Zaha, Mamadou Sakho, James Tomkins and Luka Milivojevic will be rested ahead of a Premier League clash with Chelsea.
Middlesbrough manager Tony Pulis has also indicated he will make numerous changes, prioritising his team's Championship campaign. Palace forward Jordan Ayew expressed confidence in the squad's ability to build on their recent 2-2 draw with Arsenal.
Arsenal manager Unai Emery has confirmed that Petr Cech will start in goal against Blackpool, returning from injury. Emery stated he has not yet decided on a first-choice goalkeeper, with Bernd Leno having impressed in recent matches. The Gunners will be without Hector Bellerin due to a thigh injury, while Nacho Monreal and Sead Kolasinac may return from hamstring issues.
Emery emphasised the importance of the Carabao Cup, saying it provides an opportunity to win a trophy. He plans to field a mix of first-team players and youngsters for the Blackpool match.
