By Tyler Cooke
The latest FA Cup draw is set to produce several exciting ties, with some of the Premier League’s giants set to go head-to-head in what promises to be a thrilling quarter-final round of fixtures.
The standout fixture in the next round sees Manchester City take on Liverpool in a dynamic clash between two of England’s most dominant sides in recent years.
Elsewhere, league leaders Arsenal will face Southampton, while Chelsea welcome Port Vale to Stamford Bridge.
Another intriguing fixture sees West Ham United host Leeds United, with both sides hoping to continue their run in the FA Cup and move a step closer to Wembley.
READ MORE: FA Cup fifth round winners and losers: Chelsea edge Wrexham, Port Vale shock Sunderland and
Manchester City v Liverpool
The biggest tie to come out of the draw is Manchester City v Liverpool, which is looking like to be a classic FA Cup match, we both clubs having huge success over recent years.
Both clubs are desperate to continue their push for silverware.
City and Pep Guardiola have become a real dominant force in recent years and have looked unstoppable at times, with Pep’s super tactics and world class players at his disposal.
Man City are one of the toughest teams to beat in England, but over the last two years they haven’t looked their best and are inconsistent at times which may prove problematic for them.
Whilst Liverpool had an amazing first season under Arne Slot, they too have been inconsistent and don’t look to be at the level they were at last season.
However, they have proven to rise to the occasion in big matches and will have faith that they can challenge City and book their place in the next round.
Arsenal v Southampton
Arsenal will face Southampton in a tie which is looking favourable for the Gunners, with Mikel Arteta’s side becoming one of England’s strongest teams in recent years.
Arsenal are the team to beat this season, with them already in a final for one competition and are likely favourites to win the Premier League and Champions League as well.
With Arsenal looking to control the game and have the advantage of playing at home, they will feel like they are already one step on the road to Wembley.
Southampton on the other hand, will arrive determined to cause an upset, as the club feel they have nothing to lose being the underdogs and will look to cause problems for the Premier League leaders.
Chelsea v Port Vale
Chelsea are expected to progress when they take on Port Vale, but the FA Cup has long been known for its unpredictability and the Premier League side will need to remain focused to avoid a potential upset.
Chelsea’s squad is packed with talent with players like Cole Palmer and Reece James, but the club had to go into extra-time when they faced Championship side Wrexham in Round 5, and will not want to repeat the same again.
Port Vale, meanwhile, will approach the match with little pressure and plenty of motivation, facing one of the country’s biggest clubs presents a huge opportunity for the lower-league side to make history.
If Vale can stay organised defensively and take advantage of any chances that come their way, they could give Chelsea a nervy afternoon.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Liverpool ease past Wolves into FA Cup quarter-finals
West Ham United v Leeds United
West Ham v Leeds United could prove to be one of the most evenly matched ties of the round with both teams fighting to stay up in the league.
West Ham have improved since appointing Nuno and will look to give Leeds a run for their money.
Their experience in cup competitions in recent years could prove valuable in a fixture like this and with West Ham being at home they will feel like they have the advantage.
Leeds, however, will travel to London full of belief as Daniel Farke’s side believe they can go all the way in this competition.
Leeds have already played West Ham this season back in October where the Whites beat the Hammers 2-1 at Elland Road.
With both sides capable of producing exciting football, this tie could be one of the most entertaining matches of the round.
READ NEXT: T20 World Cup news: India crush New Zealand in Ahmedabad to retain title
Aidan Leo