Desperate Arsenal need this FA Cup win

Will Arsenal bottle it on the big occasion? Millions of Gunners fans all around the world are waiting with bated breath to discover the answer tonight (tomorrow morning, Singapore time).

The tension ahead of this FA Cup semi-final against Wigan is palpable. Win, and the club’s dream of a top-four finish AND a trophy remains alive. With an easy-looking run-in, and Hull City or Sheffield United to come in the final, there are no real excuses for them not to do it. Lose though, and it’s utter humiliation for the club, and for Arsene Wenger, their under-pressure manager.

Having put the signing of his new contract on hold, the clamour for him to step aside this summer in the wake of a defeat would be uncomfortably strong. His team are out of form and beset by injuries to key players, but they will still start as favourites to beat the holders.

A repeat of last weekend’s insipid display at Everton might put them in a spot of bother though. Having conquered Manchester City in the last round, and everyone else en route to last season’s amazing success, Wigan are well equipped to take advantage if the Gunners don’t show up. Surely Arsenal will rise to the pressure. There’s just too much riding on this match for them not to win it. ADRIAN CLARKE