The FA Cup is always one that has an element of promise about it, and what a send-off this could be to Upton Park.
This week’s action entails all of the third round draws, and we play a well in form Wolves team, so we will have to be careful as anything can happen in the FA Cup.
We had another injury set back against Liverpool in our last game, with Manuel Lanzini picking up what looked to be a thigh injury, which will see him out for the next few weeks.
However it was a massive boost to see Dimitri Payet back on the pitch, who we may see again against Wolves, and the difference that he makes to our team, both in quality and morale is remarkable.
That is now seven games unbeaten in a row for us, and many of us are looking to send off the Boleyn with a fine fitting of bringing the FA Cup back one final time.
As for Wolves, they have been in excellent for as of late, so we cannot underestimate their capabilities as they are one of the better Championship sides. Many times in the past we haven’t given teams enough respect, and in return, we get caught out for it.
I have a feeling that Slaven is going to play a strong side, so expect there to be a lot of first team players in the squad. The depth of our squad has improved in quality and numbers drastically since recent years, so Bilic has the luxury of picking first team quality players, who may not be getting the minutes they feel they deserve at the moment.
There was also more positive news regarding Moses and Reid, who are both close to a return, with Winston returning to first team training earlier on in the week, so he could potentially get some minutes on Saturday also.
We have won the FA Cup three times in the history of the club, but never in my lifetime, and it is a trophy that I personally would love to have a proper go at and see how far we can progress, as I feel we have the right squad to do it.
As for how I feel we will line up, it is a difficult one to call as it is a cup game, but here is what I think…
I would be very impressed to see a team of this quality, but there could also be spots for players like Reece Oxford, who I am sure would love to play in such an occasion and we all know the potential he has.
Hendrie is yet to have a look in with Cresswell playing really well recently, so he may also get a shot.
I do not think Payet will start as he has been out for a long time, but expect him to get minutes at some point.
As for my prediction, I think we will win 3-1, with Antonio to shine again! COYI!
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