Mark Robins’s side head to Brighton and Hove Albion’s AMEX stadium tomorrow as the last SkyBet League Two side left in the Emirates FA Cup.
Mark Robins’s side head to Brighton and Hove Albion’s AMEX stadium tomorrow as the last SkyBet League Two side left in the Emirates FA Cup.
Just sixteen teams remain in the competition and the 64 places between the two sides makes it an even bigger gap in places than when City knocked out Premier League Stoke City earlier in the tournament.
“We are all excited. I have seen a difference in the players and they’re looking forward to it.
“We need to get to get back on the pitch after Tuesday as fast as possible. It is a great stadium and a great place to go. There is no better game for us really because it gives us a break from the league and a chance to go toe-to-toe with Premier League opponents.
“I wish I could play,” he said with a laugh.
The Sky Blues’ league form has taken a dip recently, losing the last three games on the spin in what has been a difficult start to the new year.
“The only way that our league form has affected us is because of the injuries that we have picked up, but that is the same with any game.
“Although it has been a disappointing week, we do have plenty of games to make it right in the league.
“This game is a distraction, but a good distraction. We have had a great run and played some great games along the way. This is another one in that line.
“If we didn’t go into the game feeling it was winnable then there would be no point going.
“The difference between the two sides is there for everyone to see, and to top it off they are going to be starting their record £14m signing.”
Despite recent results, the Sky Blues manager says that he has been surprised by his players eagerness to put things right.
“After Tuesday night, I thought it was going to be hard work to pick the players up but they have been brilliant.
“Everything we spoke about after the game are there for people to see. We have had plenty of injuries and we have a small squad.
“I think tomorrow maybe as many as eight of the team that will travel have come from the academy. That is where we are at. We are not moaning about it and it is also a fantastic plus.
He added: “We want to give a good account of ourselves. They are the hot favourites in the game, but anything can happen in the FA Cup.”