The FA Cup fourth round promises a weekend of thrilling football, with several intriguing matchups that could shape the season for many teams. As clubs across the country prepare for their fixtures, here are some key storylines to watch.
Chelsea’s Defensive Woes Under Rosenior
Chelsea has struggled to maintain defensive solidity since Liam Rosenior took over as head coach last month, keeping only two clean sheets in ten games. Despite holding commanding leads against teams like Charlton, Crystal Palace, Wolves, and Leeds, defensive lapses have cost them dearly. The most recent example was a squandered 2-0 lead in a draw with Leeds, leaving Rosenior visibly frustrated.
As Chelsea travels to Hull, Rosenior’s former club, on Friday night, the expectation is that they will advance against their Championship opponents. However, the manner of their performance will be under scrutiny. It is a critical moment for Chelsea to demonstrate seriousness and consistency in their play.
West Ham’s FA Cup Momentum
West Ham’s nervy victory against QPR in the third round has sparked a mini-revival for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side. While the FA Cup is not their primary focus this season, it has provided momentum in their fight to avoid relegation. With ten points from five league games since defeating QPR, West Ham is optimistic about their survival chances as they face League One’s Burton Albion.
Nuno is expected to make changes, possibly resting key players like Jarrod Bowen, but he should not dismiss the Cup as an inconvenience. The Cup run could be pivotal in maintaining their league form.
Burnley’s Fight for Survival and Glory
Despite Burnley’s unlikely comeback against Crystal Palace, their Premier League survival remains in jeopardy. However, their FA Cup journey offers a glimmer of hope. Drawing parallels to Wigan’s 2013 FA Cup triumph, Burnley has already dispatched in-form Millwall and now faces Mansfield. A victory would shorten the odds of becoming only the second club to win the FA Cup while being relegated.
Scott Parker’s side remains competitive, and the Cup could be the most realistic way to keep their season alive a while longer.
Southampton’s Dramatic Turnaround
Southampton fans feared the worst when their team was three goals down at half-time against Leicester. However, Tonda Eckert’s side staged a remarkable comeback to win 4-3. The two teams meet again in the Cup, with Southampton buoyed by their recent form after reverting to a four-at-the-back formation.
While much depends on the fitness of key players like Ross Stewart, Southampton enters the match with renewed confidence. Their dreams of FA Cup glory, reminiscent of their 1976 victory, are alive and well.
Salford’s Return to the Etihad
Thirteen months after an 8-0 drubbing by Manchester City, Salford returns to the Etihad Stadium. Managed by Karl Robinson, Salford sits sixth in League Two, having lost two of their last three games. Despite City’s recent dominance, including a 10-1 victory over Exeter City, Salford hopes to defy the odds.
With City focused on maintaining momentum after wins against Liverpool and Fulham, Salford faces a daunting task, but the magic of the Cup can sometimes produce surprises.
Newcastle’s Struggles Against Aston Villa
Newcastle has found it challenging to breach Aston Villa’s defense this season. Their recent 2-0 home defeat to Unai Emery’s side marked the beginning of a winless streak that ended only with a midweek victory. Eddie Howe’s decision to bench high-profile signings Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa in favor of a more fluid frontline will be closely watched.
The FA Cup offers Newcastle a chance to regain form, but their approach against Villa will be telling.
Brighton’s Anfield Challenge
Brighton fans face logistical challenges with their team’s late kickoff against Liverpool. Despite a poor run of form and diminishing faith in manager Fabian Hürzeler, Brighton hopes to replicate their third-round success against Manchester United.
With Liverpool out of the title race, the FA Cup holds significant importance for Arne Slot’s side, who are keen to build on their recent win at Sunderland.
Birmingham’s Litmus Test
Birmingham’s chair, Tom Wagner, will be absent due to health issues as his team faces Leeds in the Cup. Under Chris Davies, Birmingham is thriving in the Championship, just a point away from a playoff spot. Leeds, meanwhile, may prioritize Premier League survival over an extended Cup run.
The absence of key players like Dominic Calvert-Lewin could open the door for Birmingham to pull off an upset.
Sunderland’s Cup Adventure
With Sunderland virtually assured of Premier League survival, manager Régis Le Bris sees the FA Cup as an opportunity to give fringe players valuable game time. The match against a Championship opponent offers a chance to rest key players while providing exposure to promising talents like Melker Ellborg and Chris Rigg.
Sunderland’s Cup run could serve as a platform for future success, keeping their season vibrant and engaging for fans.
The FA Cup fourth round promises excitement and drama, with each match offering unique narratives and potential surprises. As teams battle for glory, fans can expect a weekend of captivating football action.
