THE DRAW FOR the third round of this year’s FA Cup has been completed.
In an outcome that defied statistical probability, the draw confirmed that the current Premier League leaders, Manchester City, will host their illustrious local rivals Manchester United on the weekend of 7 and 8 January.
Roberto Mancini’s side inflicted a humiliating home defeat on United en route to consolidating their place at the summit of the Premier League when last the two sides met, thereby guaranteeing the upcoming fixture will carry with it an emotional significance beyond that of a regular derby.
Other notable fixtures:
Bristol Rovers v. Aston Villa
Tottenham Hotspur v. Cheltenham
MK Dons v. QPR
Fulham v. Charlton
Arsenal v. Leeds
Swindon v. Wigan
Barnsley v. Swansea
Newcastle v. Blackburn
Everton v. Tamworth
Liverpool v. Southend or Oldham
Chelsea v. Portsmouth
West Brom v. Cardiff