Usually the FA Cup is a chance for ‘lesser’ sides to pit their wits against the big time clubs. Spare a thought for Watford, who travel to Manchester City’s Etihad stadium at the weekend fully expecting a rout.
Manuel Pellegrini’s rampant side have scored 106 goals already this season of which 64 have come at home, at a staggering average of four a game.
Nevermind, says Watford boss Beppe Sannino, who is determined for his side to have a ‘good time’ against the Sky Blues in their fourth-round clash.
“If we keep our composure and our shape during the game, we should have a good time,” he told the Watford player.
“What does that mean? I don’t know in this situation, whether that is to win, to draw or to lose but, to have a good time.
“This game should be a gift for my players, I know we played there last season but I still believe it is a gift.”
City will be without in-form striker Alvaro Negredo, who has 23 goals this season with 14 of those coming in cup matches.
But Chilean Pellegrini does not believe that the absence of Spaniards Negredo, who has a shoulder injury and David Silva, who is being rested, will stop them scoring.
“We try to continue to play our attacking style throughout the season,” he said.
“There may be games we don’t score so many goals but we won’t be changing our style and will continue our philosophy.
“Watford may not be having a great season in the Championship but they will be motivated when they play us because this is the FA Cup and they will want to beat a Premier League side.”
City’s mid-week victory over West Ham confirmed their spot in the Capital One Cup final and Pellegrini wants his side to get through to the last 16 of the FA Cup.
“We are expecting a difficult game but we want to progress in this competition. As far as the Capital One Cup, I’m not disappointed it won’t be a Manchester final,” he continued.
Image courtesy of Beppe Bifido via YouTube, with thanks.
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