Paul Fairclough could hardly contain his excitement when looking ahead to Saturday’s FA Cup with Budweiser tie against Preston North End.
Barnet’s Director of Football believes that despite the difference in leagues the Bees can pull off a shock.
Speaking to BarnetFC.com Fairclough stated that Preston’s current crop are doing the club’s rich history proud but he warned it will mean nothing come 3pm on Saturday.
“Their history is fantastic and the current side are doing the club proud but that means nothing in the FA Cup.
“Some people will say we got the toughest draw in the FA Cup but I would say, with the squad we have, that we have a great opportunity to go there and cause a shock.”
Fairclough also stated that Edgar Davids’ side will travel to Preston with no fear whatsoever.
“The opposition could also be a little relaxed because they’re playing a non-league side but we need to make sure we work on these little things to sway the game in our favour.
“One thing I will say is that I’m certainly not going up there with any fear and neither are the players. I am very much looking forward to it.”
Like Preston manager Simon Grayson the former Barnet boss believes the Bees do possess the quality to punish Preston.
“Over the years we have had the likes of Grazioli and Nicky Bailey who could do unusual yet magnificent things and we have the same kind of players right now.
“We have Keanu Marsh-Brown who is a very exciting player and as a team we can score goals so there is no question that we can get a positive result. “
Fairclough continued by hailing Preston’s superb history and impressive stadium.
“Saturday will be a great day. Some of our supporters will remember way back when Preston North End came to Underhill.
“Deepdale is a very good place to play and I went there last season with England C, it is a very tidy stadium.
“They have an amazing history behind them with players like the great Tom Finney so it will be a fantastic occasion.”
As a youngster Fairclough played for Preston Reserves on a number of occasions and he explained how small connections make the FA Cup such a special competition.
“It also holds fond memories for me because when I was a youngster I played a couple of games for their reserves.
“It is those small connections that make games like this even more special. It is what the FA Cup is all about.”
