Premier League leaders Arsenal will face title rivals Liverpool twice in quick succession, with the two sides also meeting in a league clash on Dec 23, days before their FA Cup fixture.

The Tyne–Wear derby is arguably the most exciting fixture of the third round, and with both sides currently matched on 53 wins apiece in the historic fixture, the game will carry added meaning for both sets of supporters.

Holders Manchester City face Huddersfield Town, while last season’s losing finalists Manchester United take on 2013 champions Wigan Athletic.

In other all-Premier League draws, Tottenham Hotspur will host Burnley, Crystal Palace are at home to Everton and Brentford face Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The third round is the point where Premier League and Championship (second tier) clubs enter the competition and the matches will be played from Jan 5 to Jan 8.

League Two side Wrexham – co-owned by Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds – will face Shrewsbury Town if they are able to beat Yeovil Town in a second round game later today.

Non-league Maidstone United, the lowest-ranked team guaranteed a place in the third round, are at home to either Stevenage or Port Vale, both of which play in League One.

Chelsea, also eight-time winners of the competition, host second tier Preston North End.