KARL Robinson is already looking at the positive impact Oxford United’s clash with Arsenal in the Emirates FA Cup can have on the club’s development.

The third round tie is one of six to be picked by TV broadcasters, and will be live on ITV1.

United confirmed this afternoon that the game will take place on Monday, January 9, with an 8pm kick-off.

Head coach Robinson is excited by the challenge of welcoming the Premier League leaders to the Kassam Stadium.

He said: “It’s a fantastic tie, it’s about bringing a big team to our place.

“I always speak about the community and the impact it can have on kids.

“Seeing the Premier League leaders coming to the Kassam will be tremendous for everybody involved.

“You’re welcoming one of the best young managers in Europe with what he’s achieved.”

The U’s will receive an £85,000 live broadcast fee, on top of a potential £105,000 from the competition’s prize fund if they manage to cause a cup shock and beat the Gunners.

United have already pocketed £108,000 from that fund, by beating Woking and Exeter City in the first and second round respectively.

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Robinson said he would prefer the money go into developing the club rather than towards signings in the January transfer window.

“I’d much rather the money go into the infrastructure, I’ve never shied away from that,” he said.

“I always think cup competitions give you an opportunity to build a legacy for the next stage, whatever that stage may be.

“I’d much rather it go into something which has a lasting impact on the academy system – for me that’s where the money should sit.”

The tie with Arsenal is the latest in a string of recent games against Premier League opposition, across both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

The U’s faced Manchester City at the Kassam in consecutive seasons, in the Carabao Cup in 2018 and 2019.

The latter tie came after Robinson’s side beat West Ham United 4-0 in the fourth round.

The Yellows have also taken on Newcastle United in the FA Cup, and were beaten by Crystal Palace in this season’s Carabao Cup.

Robinson said: “We’ve been very lucky, not many League One clubs can boast the amount of Premier League teams that have gone to their place in that period of time.

“It’s another example of how far we’ve come, the fact we’re in the third round is testament to the players.”

U’s No 9 Matty Taylor added: “It’s a great draw, the fans will be buzzing and I’m sure they’ll be there in their numbers.

“We’re looking forward to it, I’ve never played against Arsenal so it’s another to tick off, if selected of course.

“Hopefully they’ll have a few players who go far in the World Cup and be a bit tired.

“We’re looking forward to it, it’s a bit of a free hit for us – it’s great to play against sides of that calibre.

“We’ve shown we’re a good side on similar nights so hopefully we can get a good result.”

For ticketing details, visit the club website.