FA Cup Fourth Round Preview: Newcastle’s new-found professionalism

In the FA Cup this weekend, Lincoln look to oust another Championship club, though leaders Brighton will provide a stern test. Middlesbrough hope to avenge their previous League Cup defeat to Accrington Stanley while Newcastle, often underachievers in the FA Cup, could start to buck the trend with a win at League One Oxford.

Lincoln v Brighton

Lincoln’s result in the previous round might suggest a smash-and-grab win over Ipswich but it was not at all. They pressed with the intent of a team that was expected to win and showed a desire to get crosses in for the powerful Matt Rhead, with Terry Hawkridge and Nathan Arnold able assisters. Brighton were knocked out in East Yorkshire last season in a 1-0 defeat at Hull where, of their first team regulars, only Lewis Dunk started. Against a team three divisions lower, Chris Hughton will rotate again, but even Brighton’s second team may have too much for the Imps to handle. 0-2

Middlesbrough v Accrington

Accrington won 2-1 at the Riverside in the League Cup back in August 2013. The one remaining player from the match-day squad that evening is Shay McCartan. The quick forward who scored an excellent free-kick against promotion-chasing Carlisle last week, a game Stanley drew despite playing 78 minutes with 10 men. Middlesbrough have never had a player sent off this season, despite being the joint-third most booked team in the Premier League. Aitor Karanka’s side have managed the blend between savvy and competitive, which explains their positive defensive record. However, they must not underestimate Accrington, who have tasted cup victory against higher-ranked sides on five occasions this term and can hold their own against Premier League opposition. 1-1

Oxford v Newcastle

Oxford looked excellent at Rochdale last week, Marvin Johnson at his magical best in his natural position. Expected goals statistics suggest that 4-0 was coming for Oxford, with many encouraging performances this term that have not always gone rewarded. This is the type of early-round FA Cup clash that Newcastle might have lost in previous regime, but there is a new-found professionalism about the team now. They are arguably more likely to beat a respectable League One side in the Championship under Rafa Benitez, than when they were in the top flight. 1-2