Lawrenson: 'Arsenal advance, Man Utd draw in FA Cup'

BBC's renowned commentator predicts the results of this weekend's FA Cup fifth round matches.

Crystal Palace 0-2 Liverpool (0:30 February 15, Hanoi time)

Alan Pardew has had a good start to life at Crystal Palace but Liverpool have shown a marked improvement in recent weeks. Brendan Rodgers has found the ideal formula for his players and they have also had Daniel Sturridge return.

This match can be seen as an opportunity for players who need to find the feeling like Sturridge.

Jordon Ibe has been a surprise find for Liverpool as the 19-year-old winger has been playing well since being promoted from the youth team. Ibe's performances have been like Liverpool have just added a new player in the winter transfer window.

Liverpool have pace, youth, a diverse attack and a balanced squad. They can go far in the FA Cup this season.

Arsenal 2-0 Middlesbrough (23:00 February 15)

Middlesbrough are top of the Championship and are on a 10-game unbeaten run. The visitors have won their last five games, including a 2-0 win at the Etihad against Man City in the previous round of the FA Cup.

Arsenal are the reigning FA Cup champions. Photo: Reuters.

Middlesbrough's form could be a cause for concern for Arsenal, but the Gunners bounced back from their defeat to Tottenham by beating Leicester 2-1 in midweek. Wenger's side remain a Premier League powerhouse, with a level of quality that puts them in a good position to win at home against the lower leagues.

Man Utd will focus on the FA Cup as this is the most likely front they can win the title. Photo: Reuters.

Preston 1-1 Man Utd (2:45 a.m. February 17)

Man Utd legend Bobby Charlton played and started his coaching career at Preston. He was not someone who enjoyed coaching but often guided and trained young players with excellent football skills. Bobby Charlton is an interesting link between the two teams in history.

Back to the present, Man Utd are in surprising form. They have achieved positive results even though their playing style is not outstanding. Coach Van Gaal's team has lost only one match in the last 18 matches in all competitions.

Man Utd may find it difficult to lose to Preston but they will not be easy to beat at home either. A draw at the second division side and a win in the replay at Old Trafford are entirely possible.

According to VNE