Arsenal vs Middlesbrough Pre-game Presser

Wenger during the presser today

   Arsene Wenger faced media at the Arsenal training ground ahead of their FA Cup 5th round clash with Middlesbrough. Here's a brief of what he discussed.

Team News

Sanchez - He is a big doubt. He got a knock on the knee in the last game against Leicester.

Ramsey - He is out with recurring hamstring injury after aggravating in the midweek. "We haven't found an underlying reason. There's certainly a medical or biomechanical reason. He works hard and have a disciplined life. No reason for his problem."

Wilshere - Back in training but need match sharpness. "Jack is motivated to come back as quickly as possible. He has worked hard but has been out for four months. It is competition that gives you that sharpness that training does not give you." (~ I think he'll be on the bench on Sunday.)

Chamberlain - he is still 2-3 weeks away from first team action.

Potential Starters on Sunday

Szczesny confirmed to start. Gabriel is close to making a debut. He said "He's very close. He is a player with ability. He likes to defend. He is good in the air, very strong. But it is better I don't talk too much and let him show how good he is." (~ It means he'll definetly play)

On others he said "Some players will play who have not played recently but we will treat this game exactly the same as a Premier League game."

Boro's Threat

"They are not afraid to take on the big boys. They are well organised, play good football and they are very creative. We won't be surprised by them. We don't have the excuse to be surprised as they beat Manchester City." (~ Wenger never under-estimates championship sides. Once he did vs Blackburn in 2012-13 and we lost 1-0 at the Emirates.) FYI they are managed by Aitor Karanka, former assistant of Mourinho whom the Frenchman has never defeated in their rivalry.

On Penalties

We always practice penalties but we have a little bit of time today, so you never know.

On TV Money

"The extra Premier League money will contribute to getting more of the best players to play in England." FYI Premier League announced TV Rights deal this week worth £5.1 billion. (~ for the quality of drama we get week-in week-out, this are peanuts!)

That's all you need to know.