THE MEETING OF Arsenal and Hull in the FA Cup is beginning to be an annual event after the 2014 final and last year’s third round clash.
Cork native David Meyler, who featured in the defeat at Wembley and was in the matchday squad 11 months ago, will be aiming to halt the Tigers’ losing run against the Gunners in Saturday’s early game.
At the Madejski Stadium, another Championship side will look to topple Premier League opposition as Reading face West Brom.
Paul McShane will captain the Royals team, while Stephen Quinn is likely to feature but Simon Cox has lined out just once for the club in 2016.
For the Baggies, Derry-born winger James McClean could add to his 29 appearances for the club in all competitions this season.
Bournemouth welcome Everton to the Vivality Stadium on Saturday evening (5.15pm) and Cherries boss Eddie Howe could again rest a number of players, including Harry Arter, in the competition. Eunan O’Kane started in the FA Cup wins over Portsmouth and Birmingham so the midfielder could get another opportunity here.
The Toffees can rescue what has been a disappointing campaign thus far by claiming silverware here so Roberto Martinez may choose to retain first team regulars Seamus Coleman and James McCarthy.
On Sunday, West Ham manager Slaven Bilic has revealed he will stick with the Premier League’s best back-up goalkeeper Darren Randolph for cup games.
Having not played since July, Joey O’Brien has enjoyed something of a renaissance in recent weeks but the full-back is injured for this one.
Irish pair Shane Duffy and Darragh Lenihan have been in good form for opponents Blackburn Rovers and they are probable starters for Paul Lambert’s team.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace stalwart Damien Delaney should be in action against title contenders Spurs at White Hart Lane.
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