5 things we learned from Arsenal v Manchester City in the FA Cup

Wenger’s back three works at Wembley

Much was made in build-up about whether Wenger would be bold and persevere with the back three which beat Middlesbrough on Monday night.

And he was vindicated in his decision as his backline of Gabriel, Laurent Koscielny, and Rob Holding produced a dogged and determined performance to keep a side that have scored 63 times in the Premier League this season to minimal opportunities.

For all of City’s territorial domination in the first hour, they created very few chances and didn’t force Petr Cech into making too many saves over the course of the afternoon.

Some of that was down to City’s poor decision-making, but much of it was down to the aforementioned trio cutting out crosses, making crucial interceptions at crucial times, and keeping a tight and organised line to thwart City.

All three deserve great credit for their performances, as does the manager, whose bold decision to try something unusual against a top team paid off at Wembley.