Talismanic strikers hold the key as teams seek a place at Wembley in the most open FA Cup race for years
For seven of the eight clubs left in the competition, this year’s FA Cup represents a historic opportunity. Four of the quarter-finalists – Fulham, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Brighton – have never won the Cup, while Nottingham Forest (1959), Aston Villa (1957) and Preston (1938) last lifted the trophy before the advent of colour television. With the international break ending and midweek league fixtures coming for every team, there will be a temptation to rotate starters and rest tired legs. Still, the delirious scenes at Wembley as Newcastle ended their trophy drought in the Carabao Cup final should be on every manager’s mind. With Manchester City, the tentative favourites, in an usually vulnerable state, this is the most open race the FA Cup has delivered in years, with a prize not to be taken for granted. NMc
Fulham v Crystal Palace, Saturday 12.15pm GMT
Brighton v Nottingham Forest, Saturday 5.15pm GMT
Preston v Aston Villa, Sunday 1.30pm BST
Bournemouth v Manchester City, 4.30pm BST
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