Arsene Wenger has confirmed that he will play a young side tonight:
“There are many players in there who are close to the top level. They have earned their chance and it would be unfair not to give them the opportunity to show how good they are.
“It is a big test for those who want to become Arsenal players. To go there, show that they are not intimidated, are capable of performing under pressure and against a good side. It is another step for their education.”
Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of his reaction to the draw:
“I had to laugh. I think there was smoke coming out of the ears of some people at the FA. They must have thought 'Anything but that'. But we will just go and play our football and, we hope, get a result.
“You always learn about your young players in the Carling Cup. It is the area where we try and test them. We test their character; we test their temperament; we test their ability to play at the top level. It is great for all young players here.
“Of course, the game will be competitive. It is the quarter-finals of the League Cup, so you can expect a competitive game. It does not matter who you play against. We have a chance to get into the semi-final, and everyone wants to get there. Whoever wins this game has a great chance of getting to the final.
“The younger ones joined in the sessions this week. They showed great enthusiasm for it. The kids have been great, I must say that. But Wednesday night provides a different kind of test.
“It is one of the great things about this club - we always search for the temperament in young players. Playing in these games finds that out. It’s important to the players that play against Arsenal. They could go on and win the cup - quite easily. They are good enough - a really good bunch of boys.
“There is the right blend of players, some with first team experience like John O’Shea, Wes Brown and Phil Neville. It shouldn’t be too difficult for the players to gel because they have good ability and they train everyday together.
“I will play the same squad as against Crystal Palace, albeit with Louis Saha not involved. Young Giuseppe Rossi comes into the picture, as does Chris Eagles. Rossi is one we would like to include. He has impressed us with the games he has played since he arrived at the club from Italy. Rossi, Gerard Pique and Floribert N'Galula have been absolutely fantastic. We’re very pleased with them.
“You always learn about your players in these matches. It is an area where you can test the players; test their character, their temperament and their ability to play at the top level. It’s a great moment for all the young players here.”
Fergie expects a youthful Arsenal team as well:
“I think he (Wenger) will keep to his promise. I only know of one or two of their young players. They have got some good, impressive results against Everton and Manchester City. If you go back 10 years we were the first to do it [rest top players], and I remember a lady MP complained in the House of Commons. Now a lot of clubs use their pool.”
Fergie also added: “Will I shake his hand? You will have to pay for a ticket and come and see. All I care about is the conduct of my players and I know that we have conducted ourselves properly. I could slag off Arsenal for their behaviour last time they were at Old Trafford but I'm not going to do that. And anyway, it's not my problem.
“A quarter-final tie between ourselves and Arsenal, in front of 67,000 people, is always going to be competitive and I think it'll be a terrific match.”
Rio Ferdinand has given the youngsters some advice:
“I’d rather be playing. But the manager has made his mind up that he is going to give the younger players a chance - that is great. It’s really good to see the young players at the club going out there and getting a chance.
“I remember what it was like when I was a young player champing at the bit to get into the team. This is a fantastic opportunity to put themselves in the shop window and show the manager that they are good enough.
“I’ve not seen Arsenal’s game in the Carling Cup but everyone says they are playing a young team like we are. It should be good. I’m looking forward to seeing the young players do well on Wednesday.”
Fabregas:
“I don’t know why people are saying this will be a revenge match for Arsenal. It will be a fantastic game between rivals but I think it’s all about both teams getting experience in a big competition — and it would be great for Arsenal if we win.”
Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood:
“I am not fearful about the match. I don't see why I should be. I do not think for one minute that a longterm vendetta is on the agenda.
“We have a whole different lot of players for the game and the last thing we want is another incident. I sincerely hope there won't be one. The players will be aware of the responsibility of representing Arsenal. There will be no need, I am sure, to remind them of that.”