This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
The FA Cup third round draw was on Monday night, and Leeds United have been handed a cracker of a tie.
The Whites have been given an away trip to one of the biggest clubs in the country as they’re set to head to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal.
Of course, this means that Leeds won’t be able to field one of their loanees in the next round of the cup as Eddie Nketiah will not be allowed to play against his parent club.
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However, Marcelo Bielsa may want to call upon another of his loan players for this tough clash.
With the game coming just after the busy festive period, the Argentine might want to slightly rotate his side, and if he does, he should be looking at starting Jack Clarke.
The teenager hasn’t had much of a chance this year as he’s made just one league appearance this season, but he could be of use in this game.
Clarke would have that little bit of added extra incentive against Arsenal due to the fact that he is a Tottenham loanee.
Scoring or putting in a good shift while eliminating the Gunners from the cup would immediately put him in Spurs’ good books before he’s even pulled on a white shirt.
The youngster would presumably attempt to give it his all, knowing that he could become a bit of a cult hero at his parent club.
FA Cup ties can be seen as distractions from the league at times, but Clarke should be absolutely focused against Arsenal, and for that reason, Bielsa should consider drafting him in for that clash.
In other news, Marcelo Bielsa silenced one of his main criticisms this weekend against Boro.