Arsenal-Tottenham: Predicting the Starting 11 for Arsenal in the Carling Cup

The Carling Cup, or League Cup, is always a thrilling, interesting affair for Arsenal and the fans. Manager Arsene Wenger uses the prestigious tournament as an opportunity to blood his exciting array of youngsters.

Often the footballing world is given the treat of witnessing the future of European football, and although it has been a competition where the young Gunners and Wenger have never succeeded, it is highly beneficial to the Arsenal fringe players.

What makes Arsenal's third-round encounter even more dazzling and enticing is that it is against arch rivals and neighbours Tottenham. The rivals will not only be vying for a place in the fourth round but also bragging rights are up for grabs. 

Wenger will no doubt rest his key players and utilize his youthful talent. So let's predict a possibly starting 11.

Goalkeeper 

Manuel Almunia is certain to be given a much needed break thus granting out of favourite deputy Lukasz Fabianski his first start of the 2010/2011 campaign. The Polish shot-stopper has a huge chance to regain trust in the Arsenal community and with Wenger.

Fabianski's short Arsenal career so far has been clouded by a host of errors, most in vital situations. However, it is believed the former Legia Warsaw keeper endured a beneficial summer and is raring to make his presence felt.

Defence

The backline will be somewhat of a conundrum for Arsene Wenger. At right back it is unclear whether or not the Frenchman will give former reserve captain Gavin Hoyte a start or opt with experience and utilize Emmanuel Eboue.

Hoyte spent the entire 2009/2010 campaign away on loan with Brighton Albion where the Englishman performed strongly. However Eboue did not feature on the weekend against Sunderland and may receive the start.

In the centre of the defence, Johan Djourou is certain to receive his first start of the season. The imposing Swiss defender has missed the last year through injuries but is not fit and firing.

Partnering Djourou should be hugely touted youngster Harvard Nordtveit. The Norwegian youngster has spent the last three seasons away on loan gaining beneficial experience but has returned and is now set to make his Arsenal début.

Nordtveit is considered hopefully as the next Steve Bould for Arsenal and the Gunner faithful will be eager to witness the young gun.

At left back Wenger may give Kieran Gibbs a start but also has the option of using teenager Thomas Cruise. It looms likely the Frenchman may play it safe and take the experience option of Gibbs.

Midfield

An even bigger selection headache for Wenger. With three main central midfielders set to be the key in the Arsenal formation, it is still unclear whom the Frenchman will opt to go with.

Samba star Denilson is yet to start and despite appearing briefly against Sunderland, may get a start.

Impressive English youngster Craig Eastmond should get the defensive midfield role. Eastmond featured strongly last season in both the Carling Cup and the few appearances he received in the Premier League. 

With Jack Wilshere featuring for the full 90 minutes last Wednesday against Sporting Braga in the Champions League and against Sunderland on Saturday, it is unlikely the teenage sensation will retain a midfield spot.

This leaves Mark Randall and Connor Henderson to compete for the remaining place. However, Wenger may utilize Kieran Gibb's versatility and play the English international as a midfielder.

Forwards

The Arsenal academy boast a fine range of forwards, which will enable the Arsenal attack to continue its blossoming. Carlos Vela is a definite start having scored three goals in his last two appearances.

The Mexican magician should start as the leader of the front line with hugely exciting English wingers Henri Lansbury and Jay Emmanuel-Thomas on the flanks.

All three youngsters are incredibly talented and will provide great speed, strength, and expert finishing to the front line.

Substitutes

The Arsenal bench will be packed full of youth and talent come Tuesday night. With seven places open Vito Mannone should have the backup keeper role whilst if Gavin Hoyte is overlooked for Emmanuel Eboue than the Hoyte will be the backup defender.

If Kieran Gibbs is to start at left back, then Thomas Cruise will be on the bench along with Cedric Evina. 

For the backup midfielders, if Mark Randall or Connor Henderson wins out for a place in the starting 11 than the other will take the bench. Gilles Sunu and Rhys Murphy should be the backup forwards.

An immensely exciting encounter for the Arsenal fringe and youngsters, especially as it comes against arch rivals Tottenham.