The Divine Right To Win

THE Carling Cup final between Arsenal and Birmingham City is being hailed as one of the most important games for Arsenal this season as they look to win a trophy for the first time in six years.

But, what most people seem to forget, unless you are a Blues fan, is that there are two teams contesting this competition. What gives the Gunners the divine right to win?

Sure, the quality of football that Arsene Wenger's team play is simply fantastic. But, if it is that good, then why have the North London club failed to win a trophy since lifting the FA Cup in 2005?

People seem to forget that, despite the hoards of flair players at their disposal, Arsenal are indeed human, as many teams prove time and time again.

The win against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions' League last week was nothing more than steely determination mixed with an element of fortune that allowed Robin van Persie's equaliser to squeeze in at the near post.

So why are Birmingham not in with a shout? Alex McLeish had a terrific track record as Rangers manager before moving to St. Andrews after a stint as Scotland manager. "Big 'Eck" won seven trophies with the Glasgow club and even guided City back to the Premier League, so he knows how to win a competition.

Birmingham have just as much chance as Arsenal do to win their first major trophy for over four decades. The Carling Cup remains the only trophy they have won, courtesy of a 3-1 against fierce rivals Aston Villa in 1963.

The Gunners are without talisman Cesc Fabregas and quick silver Theo Walcott for the Wembley showdown, which will be a huge boost to the Blues' dressing room.

Arsenal are the only team who are still in with a shout of winning every competition they have entered, and City will be looking to end their dream of lifting four trophies by putting in a performance worthy of victory.

It would be ironic if Alexander Hleb were to score the winning goal, or even Sebastian Larsson or David Bentley. The three former Arsenal men will be relishing the opportunity for a crack at the whip against their ex-employers.

Or maybe it will all boil down to the enigmatic Kevin Phillips. The former England striker and one time Golden Boot winner with Sunderland is always capable of chipping in with a goal here and there and will no doubt be called upon if a late equaliser in needed.

The Blues will have to exploit the fragile Arsenal back line with the giant Serb Nikola Zigic looking to cause havoc from dead ball situations with his ability to find the net with his head, something which has caused the Gunners many problems over the course of the season.

Yes, Arsenal are more than capable of playing Birmingham off the park. But this is a cup final and no matter how hard Andrey Arshavin and Samir Nasri try, the Blues will be trying just as hard, and anything can happen.

Anyone for a cup upset?