Yes folks its that time again. Its time to welcome the FA cup third round into our lives once more and all the magic and excitement that goes with it.
Everton have been dealt a tricky looking tie at Championship strugglers Scunthorpe who find themselves in the relegation zone. I expect Everton to name a much changed side to the one that saw off Spurs.
Vital Quotes: MOYES
‘I have been in the Championship before I came to Everton so I have got an idea about Scunthorpe
They have come through the leagues and have done really well. I know they are struggling a bit at the moment but I could tell you stories about Shrewsbury Town and other games we have lost, so I never take any game lightly and I certainly wouldn’t take Scunthorpe lightly
I have managed teams who have played against big teams in the past. I managed Preston when we played Arsenal who at the time had a great side with the likes of Emmanuel Petit and Patrick Vieira’
Scunthorpe Team News:
Scunthorpe skipper Cliff Byrne is doubtful because he is suffering from a nerve problem in his back but centre-back Rob Jones looks poised to return.
Meanwhile, winger Garry Thompson could miss out with a groin injury
Player to watch: Woolford
The clubs top scorer with eight goals this campaign. Obviously he will be the man Everton are going to pay closest attention to
Everton Team News:
Everton are still without Jags who is suffering from a thigh strain. Heitinga reported no ill effects after coming through the Spurs game unscathed.
Everton will probably ring the changes and offer fringe players such as Billy and Gueye a chance to show what they are capable of.
David Moyes has very nearly a full strength side to pick from
Player to watch: Yakubu
Very difficult to choose a man to watch as the team selection is very much up in the air but I should imagine that Yakubu will at least see some action and after looking keen against Spurs last time out I think he could cause this lot some major problems.
Match Facts & Stats
Scunthorpe have one of the worst home records in the Championship having lost their last six at Glanford Park
Everton are 32 rungs higher than Scunthorpe on the league ladder.
These clubs have only met twice, and Everton won on both occasions
Scunthorpe have never been beyond the fifth round
This is the first time in eight ties that Everton are playing at their opponents ground
Everton have not been eliminated by a lower division club since Oldham at this third round stage in January 2008
Ref Watch:
Kevin Friend
Match Prediction:
Frankly anyless less than a convincing win here today would be a disaster. Having watched their last couple of games Scunthorpe are a team that the reserves should be turning over at a canter seriously some of their defensive play has been pitiful. I will go for a 3-0 win for the mighty Everton today. Lets get back on that road to Wembley.