Arsenal vs Middlesbrough FA Cup match preview: What time does it start and where can I watch it?

A look ahead to the FA Cup fifth round clash at the Emirates

Aaron Ramsey could face another lengthy spell on the sidelines (GETTY IMAGES)

Arsenal head into their FA Cup fifth round tie against Middlesbrough knowing that their chances of retaining the trophy have been hugely boosted by the elimination of Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham last time out.

However, they will have to make do without the services of midfielder Aaron Ramsey after he suffered a third hamstring injury of the season during the 2-1 victory over Leicester on Tuesday. The Welshman will miss at least two weeks, but there is good news surrounding Alexis Sanchez after the Chile international suffered a minor knee injury in the same match but could play some part against the Foxes.

There is also good news in Jack Wilshere’s recovery from an ankle operation after the England midfielder was pictured training on Friday, but despite having an outside chance of playing a part against Boro, Arsene Wenger may choose to leave him out and ease him back into action following a three month absence.

Middlesbrough will be buoyed by the fourth round victory over reigning Premier League champions Manchester City, and they also lead the way in the Championship having beaten basement club Blackpool in midweek.

Despite not playing the Gunners since 2009 in their last season in the top flight, Aitor Karanka will be quietly confident of getting a major upset given his side’s strong performances this season and Arsenal’s wobbly display against Leicester which came off the back of a north London derby defeat to Spurs.

Aitor Karanka

KICK-OFF:

Sunday, 4pm.

PAST THREE MEETINGS:

Arsenal 2 (Cesc Fabregas 2) Middlesbrough 0, Premier League, 26 April 2009.

Middlesbrough 1 (Aliadiere) Arsenal 1 (Adebayor), Premier League, 13 December 2008.

Arsenal 1 (Toure) Middlesbrough 1 (Aliadiere), Premier League, 15 March 2008.

STATS:

Arsenal famously beat Middlesbrough 7-0 in 2006 where Thierry Henry scored a hat-trick.

Former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere scored twice against the Gunners.

Four of their last six meetings have ended in 1-1 draws.

Arsenal have not lost in their last eight FA Cup matches.

TV: Live on BT Sport at 4pm