Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Alexis Sanchez scored on his return to the Emirates Stadium as Manchester United saw off Arsenal to reach the fifth round of the FA Cup and extend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's winning start.
The two most successful sides in the competition's history played out an entertaining Friday night game as United secured a 3-1 win an an eighth straight victory for interim manger Solskjaer.
Sanchez and Jesse Lingard had set the visitors on course for victory before Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang pulled a goal back for the Gunners, only for substitute Anthony Martial to wrap up a comfortable win with a late strike.
Relive all the action below.
Please allow a moment for the blog to load.
Can Alexis deliver?
It's certainly a big night for the Chilean.
A pivotal night for both sides
Speaking on BBC One, Alan Shearer says he believes tonight is a very important night for both teams.
“This is a very good opportunity for both clubs to get some silverware. Both are giants of this competition. 25 FA Cup's between them. Both managers are doing a very good job in tough circumstances.”
Encouraging signs for Arsenal
Former Gunners forward Ian Wright believes Arsenal's win against Chelsea last weekend was the ideal preparation for this evening.
"I think the way they played against Chelsea was really encouraging, with Ramsey kind of playing in that diamond role, picking up Jorginho at the time.
"With Lacazette and Aubameyang up top, that’s danger. I don’t think there’s enough goals in the team apart from them two, but there is a lot of intensity, which is really good to see."
Emery calls on Arsenal to continue home record
Having lost just two matches at the Emirates this season, Arsenal boss Unai Emery says he wants his side to carry on their positive record on home soil.
"We need to start with the first eleven, but on the bench, the players must be okay to play and help us in the 90 minutes.
"The first idea is to continue to be consistent here at home, but we know tonight it’s very difficult."
Solskjaer opens up on relationship with Sir Alex
Many have suggested that Sir Alex Ferguson has been pulling more of the strings at Old Trafford since Jose Mourinho's departure, but Solskjaer has suggested that he doesn't speak to him too much.
“I text him when I got the call (to take over as caretaker boss). He gave me his blessing! He thought I was ready for it..
He’s getting old, so I can’t ring him every week, can I?! But of course I see him after the games in his lounge at Old Trafford. I always visit him there and it’s nice to see him."
Time to get started
The teams are out on the pitch and we're just five minutes away from kick-off at the Emirates Stadium. Stay with us for regular updates throughout the match.
2 minutes: Arsenal 0-0 Man Utd
United have an early corner after Ainsley Maitland-Niles was caught in possession. Arsenal clear.
2 minutes: Arsenal 0-0 Man Utd
Arsenal look to break from United's corner as Kolasinac drives forward, but his cross towards Aubameyang is cut out.
3 minutes: Arsenal 0-0 Man Utd
Arsenal look to be set up in a 4-2-3-1 system, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang playing on the right side of the attack.
Alex Iwobi is based on the left, with Aaron Ramsey behind Alexandre Lacazette.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments