We're in the 5th round of the Cup this weekend and though it seems obvious to say it, win this and we are in the quarter finals and as this game is pretty winnable, I'd like to see us start to take the competition pretty seriously. But that's not to say we can't mix things up a little bit.
Middlesbrough are going through an awful spell and I imagine a cup run is the last thing on there minds. Gareth Southgate is a pragmatic manager and I doubt he will get his team too wound up for this or even play his strongest team. They were a little unlucky to lose against Man City last week though and may be improving. I quite like Southgate and hope he turns things round for the club but he can start doing that after Saturday quite frankly.
So, for the team, well at least now if we rest anyone, there won't be any speculation it's because we're about to sell them. I'd line up like this;
Green
Illunga - Upson - Collins - Spector
Boa-Morte - Noble - Parker - Behrami
Cole - Savio
Bench - Lastuvka, Tomkins, Sears, Di Michele, Kovac, Tristan, Stanislas
I think Collison could do with a rest, so let's give LBM a run out. Plus I think Savio could do with getting to know his team-mates and his unpredictable nature could give a rather static back line that Broro have a torrid time. Boro are quite physical though, which is why it is important our central core of Upson, Collins, Noble and Parker remain. If we're comfortable, it will be good to Kovac and Stanislas a run out late on as well.
This should be quite comfortable for the Hammers, I'm going 3-0 with COle getting and Noble popping one in as well. Come on you Irons!
Oh, and for you Romantics out there, don't forget Saturday is Valentine's Day, so before you go to the match make sure the missus has had some flowers delivered. I've found a 10% off deal below...enjoy....
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