Allardyce Will 'Tinker' And Use Squad System

Last updated : 08 September 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Allardyce will go head-to-head with Arsene Wenger when Newcastle United go to the Emirates Stadium to take on Arsenal in the third round of the Carling Cup, and the date has been a big concern.

Sam says the Carling Cup represents the best chance of ending that long wait to bring some silverware to St James', but he could have done without a trip to London to face Arsenal.

United have already lost the battle to nhave the game being staged at The Emirates on the Wednesday, as the tie has been confirmed to be played on Tuesday, September 25.

United are in action against West Ham on the Sunday.

Allardyce: "We were looking for a bit of luck with the draw. Obviously, you were looking to get two big boys together later in the competition.

"The tie drops in a difficult week for us because we play on the Sunday, then we're going to have to play them on the Tuesday night and the Saturday morning against Manchester City.

"Two out of those three games are away from home, so that's going to be a difficult week.

"It's a big challenge, and that week will give me the opportunity to use the whole squad.

"If you look at the players that weren't available for selection against Wigan, it was quite frightening.

"Hopefully, they'll all be fit, or near-enough fit, as that week we'll need to travel with everybody and use the whole squad for three games in six days."