As the iconic FA Cup weekend comes around yet again, Lincoln City have been dealt a tough hand after being drawn away against fellow Vanarama Conference side, Alfreton Town.
Although Alfreton currently lie second from bottom in the Conference, Gary Simpson and his side would still have hoped for a home tie versus a team from the Conference North or South.
It is no secret that some managers, especially those of lower league cash-strapped clubs, relish the prospect of a lucrative cup run whilst others see it as nothing more than an unwanted obstacle to the main objective, the league campaign.
The Imps manager was quick to point out that he and his team want to succeed in every department.
“We want to do well in every competition. Obviously the rewards are there if we can do well with the revenue that it brings.”
One main talking point this week which has somewhat overshadowed the build up to this weekends FA Cup clash has been the forced decision to recall Paul Farman from Boston United as a result of Birmingham City’s refusal to allow nineteen year-old shot stopper, Nick Townsend to play in the FA Cup.
When asked how much of a blow losing Townsend for this weekend was, Simpson put the change in circumstances down to the reshuffling of the managerial team at Birmingham.
“It came out of the blue to us because we fully expected that everything was okay for Nick to play for us in the FA Cup.”
Nick Townsend’s contract at the Championship club includes a clause allowing currently managerless Birmingham to recall the promising young goalkeeper in January.
“We’ve got to respect their wishes but that leaves us with our hands were tied so we had to recall Farman. I feel sorry for Dennis at Boston but now its up to Farms to make it hard for us to pick Nick.”
Alan Power could also well be in contention for a return against Alfreton. Last outing against Wrexham, the Irishman came on with half an hour to go to rescue a point and according to the manager, he has looked in fine form in training this week.
“The players set their own standards in how they play and when they drop below those standards, their place is jeopardised.”
By Ryan Hall