A fortnight ago, Gunners fans were talking optimistically of claiming four trophies, with the team contesting the Barclays Premier League, the Champions League, the Carling Cup and this competition.

But defeat in the final of the Carling Cup to Birmingham was followed by a European exit at the hands of Barcelona.

And now they have only the Premier League to play for after goals from Fabio and Wayne Rooney either side of the interval sent United into the semi-finals.

In today's other quarter-final, substitute Lee Chung-yong earned Bolton their first semi-final spot for 11 years with a late winner in a 3-2 victory over Birmingham at St Andrew's.

Johan Elmander and Kevin Davies twice put Bolton in front only for Cameron Jerome and Kevin Phillips to reply for the Carling Cup holders.

But Lee made no mistake with his close-range header a minute from time to end Birmingham's hopes of a cup double.