McArthur targets twin triumphs for a flawless season

SCOTLAND midfielder James McArthur admits he is dreaming of a perfect season as Wigan bid to defend their FA Cup and gain promotion straight back to the Premier League. The Latics take on Arsenal in today’s first semi-final at Wembley, with former Hamilton playmaker McArthur conceding last season’s cup triumph over Manchester City barely eased the pain of their heartbreaking relegation from the top flight. But Uwe Rosler’s side are in the driving seat to seal a Championship play-off place, while continuing their defence of the FA Cup, which has seen them stun Premier League sides Manchester City, Crystal Palace and Cardiff City. McArthur admits success in both competitions is his aim. He said: ‘It would be the perfect season to win both. ‘We look forward to the Arsenal match. We have no pressure and we can go and express ourselves. ‘Would I sacrifice the FA Cup for promotion? Yeah. Promotion is the main aim. If you had asked me that last year, I would have said the same but, looking back now, I wouldn’t have changed it. ‘To win the FA Cup was something unique and so special that I wouldn’t have changed it for anything, but now I would rather get promoted. ‘What made it hard was getting relegated, that was a real blow for us. ‘I never felt we would ever be there because we had belief in our own ability. ‘It took the pain away that tiny bit that we won the Cup but it was still horrible being relegated.’ Meanwhile, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain says Arsenal can spark a trophy glut if they beat Wigan today and win the Cup. Arsenal have not lifted silverware since 2005 but are overwhelming favourites to return to Wembley on May 17, despite poor Barclays Premier League form. ‘Once you do get that experience of winning the first one, you automatically build confidence that you can go on and do that again and again and again,’ said the England forward. ‘That’s what we need.’