Carling Cup Final Preview: Arsenal vs. Birmingham, Feb 27, 2011

Arsenal will be taking on Birmingham knowing that they now have the best chance to end their six year trophy drought. It is something that has carried on since the last time that Patrick Vieira lifted the FA Cup after the 1-0 win against Manchester United.

Since then, Arsenal have been extremely poor to say the least, with the Champions League final appearance in 2006 being their biggest achievement.

They will be looking to put that jinx behind them by winning against Birmingham.

The fact that Birmingham are not a Top 4 side and also the fact that they are struggling at the bottom of the table means that Arsenal could not have selected a more perfect side to face in the final than Birmingham.

However, the difference between the two sides is massive only on paper, and it shrinks to cellular size when it comes to the difference on the pitch. Birmingham have done extremely well against the Top 4 sides this season and they will be fancying their chances against Arsenal in the famous Wembley pitch.

Ironically, this pitch could suit Arsenal after a Wembley spokesman has said that it is the best Wembley pitch in years.

Arsene Wenger has previously criticised the Wembley pitch a lot, but it remains to be seen if this can really hold up for the beautiful and passing style of play that Arsenal are known for.

Alex McLeish will also know that this will be his best chance for silverware. He will be looking to make the most out of that against Arsenal.

The fact that Arsenal will be without Cesc Fabregas and Theo Walcott, who have been injured, means that Birmingham can play a defensive style of football and still be in contention for the trophy at the end of the final whistle.

You can watch Arsenal vs Birmingham live on Sky 3D, BBC One HD, Sky Sports HD1, C+ HD (Spain), C+ Sport HD (in the Nordics), DigitAlb HD4 and many others.

Joe - livescoredaily.com - live scores