Arsenal v Leeds preview

Whites out to spoil Henry's homecoming and claim memorable scalp

Last updated: 9th January 2012 Subscribe to RSS Feed

Thierry Henry Arsenal wave 2011

Thierry Henry: Expected to make his second Arsenal debut in Monday's FA Cup clash

Simon Grayson Leeds United manager

Simon Grayson: Saw Leeds come close to causing an upset at the Emirates last season

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Thierry Henry will take centre stage on Monday as Arsenal and Leeds meet in the third round of the FA Cup for the second time in as many seasons.

The two sides were drawn together in 2010/11, and it was the Gunners who eventually prevailed.

The Premier League outfit did not have things all their own way, though, with Leeds having come within minutes of securing a memorable scalp at the Emirates.

Cesc Fabregas got the Gunners out of jail with a late penalty and they went on to win the replay at Elland Road.

Arsenal will be hoping to make life a little easier for themselves this time around, as they prepare to welcome a club legend back into the fold.

Henry has returned to North London on a short-term loan deal and the French forward is expected to make his second debut for the club on Monday night.

All eyes will be on the Gunners' record goalscorer, but it remains to be seen what role he will play in the contest.

Arsene Wenger has moved to bring Henry back to the club as striking cover, but he could become a prominent figure over the next few weeks as Arsenal attempt to end their seven-year wait for major silverware.

Leeds will hope that the attention placed on Henry's return will see the Gunners take their eye off the ball and leave them vulnerable.

Simon Grayson's side will take heart from their showing in the capital 12 months ago, while they will also draw inspiration from their third round heroics in 2010 when they disposed of Manchester United.

Aston Villa await the winners in round four, with the draw for the next stage having been held on Sunday.

Henry bow

Henry will go straight into Arsenal's squad after signing on loan from the New York Red Bulls, with captain Robin van Persie set to be rested.

Ivory Coast forward Gervinho is absent at the start of international duty ahead of the African Nations Cup, but Morocco striker Marouane Chamakh is available before his delayed departure.

Defender Johan Djourou is suspended after his red card at Fulham, while Kieran Gibbs (groin), Thomas Vermaelen (calf), Bacary Sagna (ankle), Carl Jenkinson (back), Andre Santos (ankle), Abou Diaby (hamstring) and Jack Wilshere (ankle) are all out.

Kisnorbo missing

Leeds' preparations have been rocked by the news that Patrick Kisnorbo will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury.

The defender suffered the problem in the 2-1 win over Burnley and scans have shown ligament damage which will require surgery and sideline him for at least six months.

Fellow defender Alex Bruce is struggling with a hamstring tear and will be assessed ahead of the journey to the capital.

However, United's defensive worries could be eased after Tom Lees (concussion) and Darren O'Dea (hip) returned to training following recent injuries.

Winger Robert Snodgrass remains sidelined following his appendix operation last Thursday, as does skipper Jonny Howson, who has missed the last five games due to a knee injury.

On-loan winger Andros Townsend has been given permission to play by parent club Tottenham.

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