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Burnley v Liverpool preview
Liverpool face Burnley in what could well prove a battle of attrition at Turf Moor.

Steve Cotterill has shaped his bare-bones Burnley squad into a steady defensive unit, converting them from relegation strugglers to a steady mid-table Championship side.

Liverpool go into the game hot favourites, but manager Rafa Benitez has injury problems ahead of the game, and may play several of the club's youngsters.

Xabi Alonso's broken ankle will keep him out until March, and Chris Kirkland is another long-term absentee, joining Djibril Cisse, Harry Kewell, Josemi and Vladimir Smicer on the sidelines.

Milan Baros is again missing for The Reds, whilst David Raven, Stephen Warnock, Zak Whitbread and John Welsh will all hope to add to their playing experience on the night.

Burnley have sold star man Robbie Blake to Birmingham this week, but have picked up typical 1-0 wins in their last two games since it became clear that their top-scorer was leaving.

England Under-21 international Richard Chaplow made a late cameo in their last game against Stoke and could feature, but Michael Duff was forced off in the same game and is a doubt.

Jean Louis Valois is not fit and Wales international goalkeeper Danny Coyne is a long term absentee, but Brian Jensen has proved an able deputy in his absence.

Micah Hyde (pictured) is suspended for the match, and will not feature.

Rob Lewis, the referee's assistant that caused outrage by 'not seeing' Tottenham's last minute shot cross the line at Old Trafford will be running the line, with Mark Clattenburg the matchday official.


Birmingham v Leeds preview
Birmingham City will be looking to getting back to winning ways against Leeds United in the FA Cup following two straight Premiership defeats.

Blues had been in form before losing at Newcastle United and crashing at home to Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday without midfielder Robbie Savage.

Savage featured in City's reserves on Thursday but the Wales international is suspended for manager Steve Bruce and cannot be recalled for the visit of Leeds.

Blues will be keen to avoid a potential upset at St Andrews with Bruce set to field a near full-strength side after collecting no fresh injuries from their Bolton defeat.

Leeds manager Kevin Blackwell has problems at the back with centre halves Paul Butler and Clarke Carlisle both ruled out of the clash due to suspension.

Michael Duberry has been recalled from his loan spell from Stoke City and should partner Matthew Kilgallon while Gary Kelly is available after a one-game ban.

Brian Deane is unavailable up front meaning Nathan Blake should continue in attack alongside David Healy with new loan signing Leandre Griffit possibly coming in on the left.


Bournemouth v Chester preview
Bournemouth tackle Chester waiting on a fitness update on star striker James Hayter.

The 14-goal marksman has been struggling with a knee ligament injury sustained in a previous round of the FA Cup, against Forest Green, and will be keen to return after joining in with training again.

However, Cherries manager Sean O'Driscoll may not rush Hayter back into action and the boss will undoubtedly be particularly cautious with his leading scorer.

Some good news for O'Driscoll is that Eddie Howe should be available as his ankle injury is not as serious as was first feared.

Chester boss Ian Rush will be without suspended duo Andy Harris and striker Michael Branch.

The League Two outfit have been making the most of Premiership side Southampton's training facilities on the South Coast and have been preparing extensively for the third round tie.

Top scorer Kevin Ellison is still available as Hull City's approaches have, thus far, been rebuffed but there is a major doubt over Ian Hillier's fitness.


Cardiff v Rovers preview
Two sides battling against relegation lock horns in the FA Cup at the weekend.

Cardiff are fighting hard to preserve their Championship status, with a similar comment applying to Premiership Blackburn.

The Bluebirds have shown signs of emerging from their slumber over the festive period and manager Lennie Lawrence will hope for more against Rovers.

Lawrence was handed a boost in midweek when it was confirmed that West Brom have given their consent for loan star Junichi Inamoto to face Blackburn.

Rovers chief Mark Hughes has added two players to his squad already in January in the guise of South African Aaron Mokoena and New Zealander Ryan Nelson.

Mokoena has been included in the squad for the trip to Ninian Park, but the game comes too soon for Nelson.

Hughes has no fresh injury worries, although long-term absentees Jay Bothroyd, Matt Jansen, Tugay and Vratislav Gresko are still out.



Charlton v Rochdale preview
Charlton fans will be well aware that the last time they met Rochdale in the FA Cup they went on to win the trophy and will be dreaming of a similar outcome this year.

The Addicks are currently 70 places above their League Two counterparts but Rochdale have enjoyed a decent season and will be aware of Charlton's miserable cup record in recent years.

Charlton's last two matches have ended in defeat to Arsenal and Blackburn respectively and Alan Curbishley could well choose to shuffle his pack after a congested festive period.

Against Blackburn, Jonatan Johansson came in for striker Shaun Bartlett, who was forced out by a hamstring strain, and the pacey Finn is likely to retain his place at The Valley on Saturday.

Another striker desperate for a chance to impress is Francis Jeffers who has recovered from problems with an ingrowing toenail, while South African defender Mark Fish is also in contention for a return.

Those on the periphery for Charlton could be handed rare starts, with Bryan Hughes, Graham Stuart, Jason Euell and Paul Konchesky all in contention.

Rochdale boss Steve Parkin has surmised that his side have 'no chance' on their trip to the capital but the 1,600 Dale fans making the long trip may dare to dream.

Much of thir optimism, if they have any, will be founded on the prolific form of Grant Holt - who will be looking impress any scouts who are casting their eye at The Valley.

Holt is likely to be partnered by Tai Atieno and Paul Tait in an ambitious three-pronged attack, as Parkin vows to stick with the formation that has brought a fine run of results in recent weeks.

Influential defender Gareth Griffiths misses out through suspension, with Daryl Burgess to deputise.

Brighter news comes from The FA, who have decided to rescind Ernie Cooksey's red card against Notts County and he lines up against the side he played for as a schoolboy.


Derby v Wigan preview
Wigan Athletic put their promotion chase on the back-burner when they travel to Derby County in the FA Cup third round.

The all-Championship affair allows Paul Jewell's title contenders to rest some of his stars with a Premiership place in 2005/2006 clearly the priority.

"I think I will freshen things up a little at Derby," confirmed Jewell.

Jimmy Bullard may be rested after struggling with a calf injury recently while Ian Breckin is available again after serving a suspension.

Swede Andreas Johansson continues to be a target for Wigan but there is no prospect of that deal being completed in time for the midfielder to make an appearance.

Derby trio Grzegorz Rasiak (hip), Jeff Kenna (back) and Michael Johnson (Achilles) sat out training this week but George Burley is convinced all three should be fit for the Pride Park clash.

Experienced striker Paul Peschisolido is still sidelined with a hamstring injury, along with Jamie Vincent and Mo Konjic.

The Rams will be keen to put one over their high-flying opponents and will be boosted if top scorer Rasiak, who has already scored against Athletic this season, is passed fit.


Chelsea v Scunthorpe
Chelsea's new signing Jiri Jarosik is included in their squad but Robert Huth (ankle), Ricardo Carvalho (toe) and Scott Parker (foot) are all still out.

Wayne Bridge misses out because of flu and midfield inspiration Frank Lampard is suspended for the tie.

Scunthorpe boss Brian Laws is sweating on the fitness of two players with Andy Crosby and Neil Teggart both doubtful.

Steve Torpey is suspended and Nathan Stanton (knee) definitely out - but Andy Butler returns after his ban.



Coventry v Crewe
Stand-in Coventry manager Adrian Heath welcomes back Andy Morrell for the FA Cup clash with Crewe at Highfield Road.

Morrell had been laid low by a heavy cold but has declared himself fit, while Eddie Johnson has also been pencilled in despite suffering bruised toes during the 2-1 defeat by Leeds.

But left-back Stuart Giddings has been ruled out by an ankle problem and Dele Adebola is a doubt with a groin strain.

Tim Sherwood (leg) remains a long way short of match fitness, Andy Whing is still recovering from his hernia operation and goalkeeper Richard Brush has a broken wrist.

Crewe manager Dario Gradi has Mark Rivers in contention.

The experienced striker missed the 2-1 defeat by Preston through illness but could return to the Alex side for the clash with the Sky Blues.

Defender Anthony Tonkin suffered no reaction to his first game back following a foot injury, while forward Dean Ashton is fit despite being taken off against North End with a minor ankle knock


Hartlepool v Boston preview
Hartlepool United will be keen to send Boston United spinning out of the FA Cup at the third round stage of the competition.

Pools are riding high in fifth place in the League One table and confidence is high after a thumping of MK Dons in their most recent league outing.

Manager Neale Cooper may hand the likes of Ben Clark and Gavin Strachan a start and has also revealed that Darrell Clarke is on his way back to full fitness.

Micky Barron, the club skipper, is still sidelined but Cooper is pleased with the strength of squad he has at his disposal.

Boston expect to bring a large travelling contingent to the North East as they bid to reach the fourth round for the first time in their history.

The Pilgrims are hoping experienced hit-man Jason Lee will shrug off the effects of a virus in order to lead the line.

Daryl Clare and David Staff are absent as they are both cup-tied.



Hull v Colchester preview
High-flying League One outfit Hull City could secure their 10th consecutive win against Colchester on Saturday.

Peter Taylor's men are the form team following an excellent league run and will be looking to conquer all in the FA Cup.

The Tigers could be their own worst enemy with a number of regulars unavailable to feature against The U's.

Ian Ashbee and Nick Barmby are both ruled out due to suspension while star striker Stuart Elliott is injured.

The game is also likely to come too soon for trio Roland Edge, Marc Joseph and Ryan France.

Colchester keeper Aidan Davison is set to miss out against his former club at The KC Stadium.

The shot-stopper is struggling with the groin strain that has kept him out of Colchester's last two games.

Neil Danns cannot play as he is suspended while Bobby Bowry and Richard Garcia are doubts to play against Hull.


IPSWICH V BOLTON PREVIEW
friends Sam Allardyce and Joe Royle meet as Ipswich host Bolton in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.

The Tractor Boys will be confident of claiming a Premiership scalp given that they are riding high at the top of the Championship at the moment.

However, Bolton appear to have arrested their recent slump and will be looking to progress to the fourth round for the first time in three years.

Ipswich got back to winning ways against Plymouth on Monday having lost their first home game of the season against West Ham on New Year's Day.

Royle will be without on-loan Arsenal youngster Daniel Karbassiyoon who The Gunners do not want to become cup-tied.

Also missing will be defender Drissa Diallo who has not yet fully shaken off a hamstring complaint.

Bolton hope to welcome back Kevin Davies who missed the midweek win at Birmingham due to a hamstring injury of his own, but defender Julio Cesar misses out due to his broken leg.

Allardyce looks likely to make a number of changes to his starting line-up after admitting his players were fatigued after the hectic Christmas schedule.

Fernando Hierro, Anthony Barness, Florent Laville, Tal Ben-Haim and Blessing Kaku could all have roles to play at Portman Road, although Allardyce has been quick to underline how seriously he is taking the tie.


Luton v Brentford preview
This all-League One affair between Luton Town and Brentford looks set to be an FA Cup tie with an edge.

The two sides have faced each other once already this season in December. Brentford came out victorious in a fiery encounter that saw The Hatters' star striker Steve Howard (pictured) sent off, and angry exchanges between both sets of players.

However, Luton's Kenilworth Road will host the tie this time, and the respective form of the rivals does not look encouraging for Martin Allen's side.

Mike Newell's Luton have lost just once at home in all competitions while Brentford have only registered two wins from their dismal away record.

The Bees, placed 9th in the table, also face a mounting injury crisis, with Alex Rhodes, Kevin O'Connor, Michael Dobson, and Steve Hunt all ruled out. Sam Sodje is also suspended while veteran striker Steve Claridge is cup-tied after appearing in the competition for Weymouth.

In contrast, second-placed Luton only have fringe midfielder Paul Hughes unavailable, and 17-goal Howard may be in the mood for revenge following the side's previous meeting.


Leicester v Blackpool preview
Leicester will be hoping to rejuvenate a flagging season when they take on Blackpool in Saturday's FA Cup clash.

The Foxes have struggled to live up to pre-season expectations this term and will be looking for a morale-boosting cup success.

Blackpool too have endured an indifferent campaign and boss Colin Hendry has the added headache of having a congested treatment room.

Goalkeeper Brad Jones is a definite absentee with a thigh injury, whilst Gareth Evans misses out through suspension.

Paul Edwards has resumed training after a groin injury and could make a welcome return, while influential midfielder Richie Wellens and Leam Richardson have both shaken off a flu virus.

The midfield pair missed Blackpool's defeat to Port Vale and would both likely be handed a recall if passed fit to play.

Leicester boss Craig Levein could welcome back Ian Walker for the first time since the end of August, as he is making good progress from a troublesome knee injury.

Arsenal have requested that on-loan custodian Stuart Taylor is not to play.

Former Manchester City midfielder Danny Tiatto is not to be risked as he recovers from a fractured cheekbone.

Leicester have been busy in the January transfer window but Levein has yet to confirm whether new boys Alan Maybury and Mark de Vries, both from Hearts, will make immediate debuts.


Man Utd v Exeter preview
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson will rotate his squad for the FA Cup tie with non-league Exeter City.

Roy Carroll will be replaced by Tim Howard with the American handed an opportunity to prove he can regain his place on a regular basis. That is, of course, providing City manage to test the USA international as they will find it an uphill battle going to Old Trafford.

David Bellion looks certain to start in attack despite disappointing when making a substitute appearance against Tottenham as Alan Smith, the only fit senior striker at the club, may sensibly be rested.

Who partners Bellion is a valid question as Ferguson will surely not play with a solitary striker in a home game against a Conference side that is expected to mass their ranks in defence. Hence, Sylvain Ebanks-Blake or Giuseppe Rossi can view this as the perfect opportunity for a chance to make a first team start. Cristiano Ronaldo, playing in an advanced role, is another option.

Eric Djemba-Djemba, Chris Eagles, Wes Brown, Kieron Richardson, Phil Neville and Liam Miller will all hope to be involved as the top stars will be rested. Ryan Giggs is out for at least a fortnight after tweaking his hamstring but would not have played in any case.

Exeter will field 19-year-old Danny Clay after the youngster avoided a heart-breaking suspension and rookie keeper Martin Price admits he is sweating over his place after a mistake against Hereford United.

The good news for The Grecians is that, remarkably, the match is heading for a sell-out with only a few tickets remaining.

The bumper pay-day will be a lifeline to Exeter and boss Alex Inglethorpe will be determined his side give a good account of themselves on their big day in Manchester.


Arsenal v Stoke preview
Arsenal are likely to have a youthful look to their team as they aim to avoid an FA Cup giant-killing at the hands of Stoke City.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger would normally choose to rest his senior players for a game against a lower league side but, on this occasion, he has little option but to follow that path.

Wenger will be without the services of Gilberto Silva, Edu, Pascal Cygan, Dennis Bergkamp, Mathieu Flamini, Lauren and Sol Campbell who are all injured.

The Premiership champions are also likely to rest Thierry Henry and Ashley Cole for the third round visit of Stoke.

Henry's place in the team is expected to be taken by Jose Antonio Reyes, with the Spaniard having recovered from injury.

The likes of Arturo Lupoli and Quincy Owusu-Abeyie impressed in the Carling Cup this season and will wait to see if they are given a chance in the more prestigious FA Cup.

The Gunners are also changing their goalkeeper with Jens Lehmann coming in for his first appearance since November to replace Manuel Almunia.

Stoke travel to Highbury with Jason Jarrett in their squad after the midfielder joined on a month's loan from Wigan Athletic.

Former Arsenal trainee John Halls is hoping to shake off a back injury to play against his old club as Stoke chase an upset.

Michael Duberry has been recalled by Leeds United after his loan spell at Stoke, while veteran defender Gerry Taggart could make his comeback from injury.



MK Dons v Peterborough
Peterborough will be without Guy Branston and Wayne Purser for the FA Cup tie with MK Dons at the National Hockey Stadium.

Both players are cup-tied having appeared for Sheffield Wednesday and Hornchurch respectively earlier in the competition.

But defender Mark Arber will be available after serving out his suspension.

Fellow stopper Adam Newton is making good progress after injuring his hamstring and is hopeful of making the tie, but Gareth Jelleyman is still sidelined with a hamstring problem and is a definite non-starter.

On-loan defender Paul Mitchell will be able to turn out for MK Dons.

Mitchell is on a month-long stint from Wigan and the Championship club have given him permission to play.

But goalkeeper Matt Baker is cup-tied having already played for Wrexham in the competition, so David Martin is likely to replace him.



Sheff Utd v Aston Villa preview
Aston Villa face a tricky trip to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United in the third round of the FA Cup.

With Villa heading into the game on the back of a run of just one win in their last eight games, Neil Warnock's Blades are sure to fancy their chances of an upset.

United have a proven record in the world's most famous cup competition and head into the game in fine form, having lost just one of their last 11 encounters.

Warnock has few injury worries to contend with, although Rob Kozluk is unavailable after heading out on loan to Preston, but he will have to overcome the poisoned chalice of being named Manager of the Month on Thursday.

With the fine win over West Ham still fresh in the memory, Warnock may opt for continuity.

Villa boss David O'Leary will be looking for his charges to put aside their poor recent form and he can welcome back Olof Mellberg who missed the loss at Crystal Palace through suspension, with Liam Ridgewell possibly set to make way.



Wolves v Millwall preview
Wolves host Millwall in an all-Championship FA Cup tie.

The Black Country outfit are seeking their first win under new boss Glenn Hoddle and the cup could be the perfect distraction from their league struggles.

Hoddle is looking to strengthen in January, with the meeting with Millwall likely to give his current players a final chance to impress.

Former England international Paul Ince is a doubt for the visit of Millwall, as he will have to pass the doctor due to a concerns over a knee injury.

Millwall are on the fringe of the play-off picture, but have lost their last two outings, including against bottom club Rotherham, and player-manger Dennis Wise will be hoping for a confidence boost at Molineux.

Wise's own fitness remains a cause of concern, as he has been forced off in the last two games after losing sensation in his legs.

Doctors have yet to pinpoint the problem, with Wise likely to take his place in the starting XI.

Wise will be without the combative Kevin Muscat, who misses the chance to face his old team due to suspension.


Northampton v Southampton
SAINTS' MIDFIELD DOUBTS
Winger Fabrice Fernandes and midfielder Anders Svensson are struggling to recover from injury ahead of Southampton's FA Cup third-round tie at Northampton.

Fernandes limped out of Southampton's 3-3 draw with Fulham in midweek with a hamstring problem while Svensson is doubtful with a dead leg.

Club captain Jason Dodd could return after making a full recovery from a back problem while midfielder David Prutton is available again after a one-match ban - but Graeme Le Saux, Jelle van Damme, Darren Kenton and Marian Pahars are still injured.

Northampton boss Colin Calderwood has doubts over Fred Murray and Charley Hearn.

Murray has missed the last three matches with an ankle injury and fellow midfielder Hearn picked up a calf strain in the 2-1 win over Mansfield, so Calderwood will give both players late fitness tests.

Striker Tom Youngs is available after illness but Marc Richards (knee) remains a long-term casualty.

Southampton (from): Niemi, Telfer, Lundekvam, Davenport, Higginbotham, Fernandes, Delap, Redknapp, A Svensson, Crouch, Phillips, Ormerod, Blackstock, Oakley, Prutton, Dodd, McCann, Nilsson, Smith.


Notts Co v Boro preview
Middlesbrough face Notts County in the FA Cup third round for the second year running.

The League Two side will be looking to improve on last year's 2-0 defeat at The Riverside and do have the benefit of home advantage this time around.

However, with 82 places separating the two sides, Steve McClaren will be confident of his side getting back to winning ways after two successive defeats.

Boro's campaign has been blighted by injuries in recent times with a host of first-team names stuck in the treatment room.

However those problems have begun to ease with Chris Riggott, Ugo Ehiogu, Stuart Parnaby and Malcolm Christie all featuring for the reserves against Leeds in midweek.

Unfortunately Parnaby sustained another knock in that game, but Ehiogu came through unscathed and could start at Meadow Lane.

Ray Parlour and Boudewijn Zenden, who scored in last year's 2-0 win, are though the latest players on Boro's casualty list, and join Mark Viduka, George Boateng and Gaizka Mendieta on the sidelines.

Notts County have been boosted by the news that midfielder David Pipe should be fit for Saturday's game.

The Wales Under-21 international has shaken off an ankle knock which forced him off against Rochdale last weekend.

Matthew Gill should also be available to return, meaning Magpies caretaker boss Ian Richardson has no injury problems other than long-term victims Steve Scoffham and Mike Edwards.


Oldham v Man City preview
Boundary Park hosts a North West derby as Kevin Keegan's Manchester City travel to Oldham.

Under Joe Royle's tenure the Latics faithful were spoilt by their cup exploits and enjoyed two fine FA Cup runs, which ultimately abated at the semi-final stage courtesy of Manchester United.

Since the heady days of The Premiership, Oldham have fallen on fallow times but recent good form and a promise of cold, grey and miserable conditions at Boundary Park has manifest talk of an upset.

Earlier in the season Oldham were put to the sword 6-0 by a rampant Tottenham and if they show as much reverence for City, then a similar outcome could be on the cards.

However, Brian Talbot has slowly moulded a side that is difficult to beat and in Neil Killkenny, has acquired a loan acquisition that could prove the catalyst for an upset.

The Birmingham starlet will line up in a midfield that should see the return to action of veteran David Eyres, who missed Monday's trip to Colchester.

Serious injury to club captain Dean Holden will allow Alex Bruce to stake a claim for a regular starting berth and he is sure to be given a warm reception from the City supporters as he is the son of Birmingham boss, Steve.

Oldham are severely limited in striking options as Jermaine Johnson and Rodney Jack are both long term injury victims, whilst top goalscorer Chris Killen is likely to be on the bench at best.

Last term's chief goal grabber Scott Vernon will continue to lead the line and he will most likely be partnered by makeshift striker Kevin Betsy, who otherwise could be employed on the right flank, in the absence of Lee Croft - who is on loan from City.

City supporters will be hoping this can be their year in the cup and confidence will be high, after recent good form that has seen Shaun Wright-Phillips in a scintillating mood and Robbie Fowler demonstrating he has rediscovered his hunger for the game.

Keegan has stated his intention to treat Oldham with utmost respect and this will mean fielding his strongest possible line-up, although Joey Barton could sit the tie out as he looks to recover from an ankle injury.

City's other major doubt is top goalscorer Nicolas Anelka, who missed Tuesday's credible draw at Arsenal with a back strain.

England full back Danny Mills is available after suspension and is likely to be handed a start in place of promising starlet Nedum Onouha, as Keegan looks to add experience to his back-line.

A sell-out crowd at Boundary Park is likely to create a frenzied atmosphere, that could help lay the foundations for an unlikely cup upset.


Portsmouth v Gills preview
Portsmouth could opt to give a number of fringe players a run out in their FA Cup clash against Gillingham.

Richard Hughes, Eyal Berkovic, Aliou Cisse and Kevin Harper have been out of contention under Velimir Zajec (pictured), but could be given a chance to feature against The Gills.

Tresor Lomana Lua Lua is close to full fitness but may not be risked following an ear infection, while Ricardo Fuller could return after being rested for the Everton clash.

Championship strugglers Gillingham have a handful of injury worries for their trip to the South Coast.

John Hills and Alan Pouton are struggling to be fit for the Cup clash while striker Mamady Sidibe is unavailable for manager Stan Ternent.

Nyron Nosworthy, who injured a foot against Reading, is out for a month and will not take part against Pompey.

Chris Hope could return for The Gills after an ankle knock while Matt Jarvis is unavailable after having a hernia operation on Wednesday.


Portsmouth v Gills preview
Portsmouth could opt to give a number of fringe players a run out in their FA Cup clash against Gillingham.

Richard Hughes, Eyal Berkovic, Aliou Cisse and Kevin Harper have been out of contention under Velimir Zajec (pictured), but could be given a chance to feature against The Gills.

Tresor Lomana Lua Lua is close to full fitness but may not be risked following an ear infection, while Ricardo Fuller could return after being rested for the Everton clash.

Championship strugglers Gillingham have a handful of injury worries for their trip to the South Coast.

John Hills and Alan Pouton are struggling to be fit for the Cup clash while striker Mamady Sidibe is unavailable for manager Stan Ternent.

Nyron Nosworthy, who injured a foot against Reading, is out for a month and will not take part against Pompey.

Chris Hope could return for The Gills after an ankle knock while Matt Jarvis is unavailable after having a hernia operation on Wednesday.


QPR v Forest preview
Queens Park Rangers manager Ian Holloway is down to the proverbial bare bones for the visit of Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup third round.

Holloway claims he only has 16 available players for the game at Loftus Road, due to a combination of injuries, suspension and ineligibility.

Southampton have refused Holloway permission to play on-loan forward Leon Best, while Adam Miller is cup-tied.

Paul Furlong and Georges Santos are both suspended, although Holloway hopes to have Gareth Ainsworth back from a groin injury.

Marcus Bignot and Marc Bircham are expected to shrug off illness to play, while Kevin McLeod has a tight hamstring and Tony Thorpe is likely to be plunged into the fray despite his lack of match fitness.

When The R's lost 2-1 at Forest at the start of December, it heralded a five-match losing streak and Holloway will hope a similar thing does not occur after this weekend.

Forest, though, may not care for the distraction of a sustained run in the FA Cup as they seek to avoid the ignominy of dropping out of The Championship.

Caretaker manager Mick Harford labelled his players a 'disgrace' for their performance in the 3-0 defeat at Cardiff City on Bank Holiday Monday.

Harford can welcome back key defender Michael Dawson from suspension but Jon Olav Hjelde and Alan Rogers are banned.

On-loan Crystal Palace midfielder Shaun Derry has not been given the green light to play but Yoann Folly, signed from Southampton on loan on Friday, is available. Paul Evans could return from a thigh injury.


Reading v Swansea
Swansea midfielder Leon Britton could earn a recall for the FA Cup third-round tie at Reading.

The former West Ham man has played only a bit-part role this season but injuries to Kristian O'Leary and Roberto Martinez, plus Alan Tate's suspension, could earn him a start at the Madejski Stadium.

Martinez has had constant treatment on the hamstring injury he picked up in the dying seconds of Monday's win over Rushden and while he is keen to play, he will not risk a longer spell on the sidelines

Knee ligament injury victim O'Leary faces another three weeks out, while James Thomas (knee) and Leon Hylton (groin) are still missing.

Reading manager Steve Coppell looks set to hand new signing Les Ferdinand his debut.

The 38-year-old former England striker signed for the Royals on Thursday and is eligible to play in the FA Cup.

Captain Graeme Murty and midfielder Steve Sidwell both picked up ankle knocks during the 1-0 defeat by Derby on Monday and are major doubts for the game.

Their progress is being closely monitored and they will be given until the last minute to prove their fitness.

Leading scorer Dave Kitson has started light training after recovering from his knee injury but the game against the Swans will come too soon.


Rotherham v Yeovil preview
Yeovil Town, with 20 league scalps to their name whilst plying their trade in the lower leagues, have a long tradition of causing upsets in the FA Cup.

However, even though their away fixture at Rotherham sees the League Two leaders take on a Championship side, a victory at Millmoor would not register as a shock success for the Somerset side.

Yeovil, under the stewardship of League Two Manager of the Month Gary Johnson (pictured), have won the last eight games on the bounce whilst opponents Rotherham have registered just three league wins all season and lie bottom of their table.

Rotherham boss Ronnie Moore also has injury troubles with Scott Minto out with 'flu and Shaun Barker set to play no part after damaging knee ligaments.

Paul McLaren, Will Hoskins and captain Martin McIntosh are all set to return for the game, in which Moore will be hoping that a good victory can turn around The Millers' disappointing season.

Yeovil have three late fitness tests to carry out with unidentified players after their long trip up north, and will be without suspended central defender Colin Miles.


Sunderland v Palace preview
Sunderland aim to exact a modicum of revenge when they entertain Crystal Palace in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.

Palace ended Sunderland's Premiership promotion dream last season when they gained a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory in the play-off semi-finals.

Iain Dowie's side went on to clinch a place in the top flight but the Eagles chief may rest several of his key players for the trip to The Stadium of Light.

Hungarian goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly has claimed he will be rested, which will open the door for Julian Speroni.

Top scorer Andy Johnson may also be given a break and his absence could hand the likes of Sandor Torghelle or Ivan Kaviedes the chance to stake a claim for a more regular role.

Aki Riihilahti is doubtful, along with Gonzalo Sorondo, while Joonas Kolkka, Nicola Ventola and Tommy Black are definitely absent.

Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy is the latest manager to lament being down to the bare bones and he has 17 first team players available for selection.

Jeff Whitley is suspended while John Oster is not being considered for selection as the club investigate an incident which blighted his recent loan spell at Leeds United.

McCarthy also has several injury casualties, with Mart Poom, Gary Breen, Julio Arca, Liam Lawrence and Kevin Kyle not fit to face Palace.

To compensate for those absences, McCarthy has added reserve team duo Grant Leadbitter and Richie Ryan to his squad for Saturday's tie.


Tottenham v Brighton
Tottenham striker Fredi Kanoute has a hamstring injury and is set to miss the FA Cup third-round clash with Brighton.

Head coach Martin Jol checked the Mali striker's fitness on Friday but is expecting him to join Thimothee Atouba (ligament), Sean Davis (knee) and Simon Davies (virus) on the sidelines.

Midfielders Michael Carrick (calf) and Michael Brown (groin) are slight doubts but Jermain Defoe is in the squad despite still recovering from a knee injury, while full-back Stephen Kelly is back from his ligament injury.

On-loan striker Mark McCammon can play for Brighton after Millwall cleared him to take part.

McCammon is on a month's loan from the Lions, but has been frozen out at the New Den to such a degree that they are not concerned about him being cup-tied.

Manager Mark McGhee has no new injury worries as defender Guy Butters returns to the club where he began his professional career in 1988.

Tottenham (from): Robinson, Fulop, Pamarot, King, Naybet, Gardner, Kelly, Edman, Ziegler, Carrick, Brown, Pedro Mendes, Marney, Ricketts, Defoe, Keane, Yeates.


Watford v Fulham
On-loan duo Paul Jones and Johnnie Jackson will not play for Watford as their clubs do not want them cup-tied.

Jermaine Darlington and Gavin Mahon are back from injury and suspension but Sean Dyche (groin), Marcus Gayle (hamstring) are both still unavailable.

Fulham boss Chris Coleman will rest several players and hand defender Liam Fontaine his full debut.

Tomasz Radzinski (hip) and Moritz Volz (flu) are definitely out, but Sylvain Legwinski has been passed fit to play.



West Ham v Norwich
Norwich are expected to give 18-year-old striker Ryan Jarvis his chance to lead the attack after his stunning strike against Liverpool.

Leon McKenzie is ruled out with a hamstring strain, but Marc Edworthy returns from suspension.

West Ham team news will appear later.



Plymouth v Everton
James Beattie is expected to make his Everton debut in the FA Cup third-round clash at Plymouth.

A Football Association rule change this season has seen the end of the seven-day registration period, leaving Beattie free to play at Home Park.

Striker Duncan Ferguson is serving the final match of a three-game suspension for being sent off at Charlton last month, while midfielder Steve Watson could be out with a stomach upset.

Moyes rested Kevin Kilbane, David Weir, Marcus Bent and Alessandro Pistone for the midweek win over Portsmouth but is likely to recall them.

Plymouth's new £100,000 striker Scott Taylor is cup-tied.

But Argyle still have the choice of three strikers - Mickey Evans, Marino Keith and Stewart Yetton.

Boss Bobby Williamson is boosted by the return from suspension of Irish central defender Graham Coughlan, so skipper Paul Wotton will push up into midfield.

Everton (from): Wright, Hibbert, Weir, Yobo, Stubbs, Naysmith, Pistone, Cahill, Gravesen, Carsley, Osman, Bent, Beattie, McFadden, Kilbane, Campbell, Turner, Chadwick, Watson.



Yeading v Newcastle preview
For those who still believe in the magic of the FA Cup perhaps the tie of the round can be found at Loftus Road where Yeading take on Newcastle.

The national press has been saturated this week with comparisons of players, lifestyles and managers and it will be Newcastle who will perhaps feel the pressure most on Sunday.

Yeading currently top the Ryman League by an impressive nine points, while Newcastle have slumped to mid-table mediocrity this term - albeit in The Premiership.

Despite Newcastle's slump of late, Toon boss Graeme Souness is able to bolster his side with the acquisition of two multi-million pound defenders, in the form of Jean-Alain Boumsong and Celestine Babayaro.

Both are included in Sunday's squad and are likely to make debuts in Souness' eagerly awaited new-look defence.

The fiery Scott is clearly in confident mood ahead of the game, as he has decided to rest in-form Kieron Dyer, despite having only an injury-plagued squad to choose from.

Pacey Welshman Craig Bellamy is back in contention after recovering from a knee strain but influential quartet Alan Shearer, Patrick Kluivert, Nicky Butt and Stephen Carr are all missing - while Olivier Bernard misses out through suspension.

Yeading boss Johnson Hippolyte clearly graduated from the Jose Mourinho school of management, as he has already pinpointed Newcastle's weakness.

Titus Bramble has been identified as the North East outfit's weakest link and a player Yeading will be looking to expose on Sunday.

"No disrespect to him," said Hippolyte. "But the boy's having a nightmare.

''He's got the press and the supporters on his back and he's playing very nervously at the moment.''

Bramble's biggest headache is likely to come from DJ Campbell, who netted 36 goals last season and is a name to be feared amongst non-league defenders.

The 23-year-old was once a team-mate of Darius Vassell at Aston Villa and Hippolyte revealed that he has received a phone call this week from a league club enquiring about his top goalscorer.

For Campbell and Yeading it is an opportunity to show the football world the talent yet to be unearthed from the Ryman League but in Newcastle, they face opposition who will surely have too much quality. (BBC, Sky-Sport, Sporting Life)
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Italia
http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/prob_form ... nata.shtml
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Espanja
Primera Liga matches, Jan 8-9
Fri Jan 7, 2005 12:08 PM GMT
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By Simon Baskett MADRID, Jan 7 (Reuters) - Atletico Madrid hope to provide their long-suffering fans with something to celebrate when they face city rivals Real Madrid at the Calderon on Sunday (kickoff 1800 GMT).
Real are on a high after grabbing a victory in the remaining seven minutes of their held over match against Real Sociedad on Wednesday, providing new coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo with the perfect start.

Atletico have only beaten Real twice in the last 12 years in the league but believe that they have the ideal opportunity to beat their illustrious rivals.

"The players and fans have been waiting a long time to break our poor run against Real and I believe our time has come," Atletico striker Fernando Torres said.

"I really think we are going to win on Sunday and if we don't it won't be for lack of trying."

Torres, who has never scored a league goal against Real, has made a lightning recovery after fracturing a rib in Atletico's 1-0 defeat at Betis in the final match of last year.

Atletico should be boosted by the signing of Denmark winger Jesper Gronkjaer who is set to make his debut.

Although they have not lost at the Calderon this season, Atletico have been overly dependent on Torres and coach Cesar Ferrando is hoping the former Chelsea player can give his side more attacking options.

Real showed a new determination and verve against Sociedad, but the game against Atletico should provide a more realistic gauge of their form.

Defenders Michel Salgado and Walter Samuel are suspended and will be replaced by youngsters Alvaro Arbeloa and Francisco Pavon, while Michael Owen is likely to start on the bench again as Luxemburgo keeps faith with Ronaldo and Raul in attack.


Other matches being played this weekend (league positions in brackets, kickoff times 1600 GMT unless stated): Saturday:

NUMANCIA (20) v ATHLETIC BILBAO (9) 1900

Basement side Numancia will have their work cut out against the Basques, who are on a three-match winning streak and notched an impressive 4-0 win over Mallorca just before the Christmas break. - - - -

SEVILLA (4) v GETAFE (15) 1900

Sevilla have only dropped two points at home this season and buoyed by their 1-0 win over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu last time out should prove too powerful for opponents who have yet to record an away victory. - - - -

VALENCIA (2) v LEVANTE (14) 2100

The Valencia-based sides meet in the league for the first time in 40 years in what promises to be an intense derby atmosphere at the Mestalla.

Claudio Ranieri's Valencia have climbed to second in the table on the back of a seven-match unbeaten run but will be without winger Vicente who underwent ankle surgery this week. - - - -

Sunday:

ESPANYOL (5) v OSASUNA (7)

Espanyol will be without inspirational striker Raul Tamudo and midfielder Oscar Serrano who were sent off during the 3-0 defeat by Valencia.

They face a difficult test against improving Osasuna who should have striker Savo Milosevic back after injury. - - - -

RACING SANTANDER (17) v MALAGA (18)

A tight contest in prospect between two struggling teams.

Racing have not won in seven outings while Malaga coach Gregorio Manzano is under heavy pressure with his side winning just one of their last 11 games. - - - -

REAL MALLORCA (19) v DEPORTIVO CORUNA (13)

Depor are a shadow of the team who claimed a top-three finish in each of the last five seasons and have not won in five games.

Mallorca are in even deeper trouble, but have strengthened their squad with the signings of Japan striker Yoshito Okubo and Uruguayan midfielder Gonzalo de los Santos. - - - -

REAL SOCIEDAD (11) v ALBACETE (16)

Sociedad's recent revival ended with defeat by Real in their controversial held over match at the Bernabeu on Wednesday and they need to be on their guard against under-rated Albacete who have spiced up their attack with Uruguayan Nico Olivera. - - - -

REAL ZARAGOZA (12) v REAL BETIS (6)

An intriguing clash in prospect between two of the league's most entertaining sides.

Zaragoza ended a mid-season dip with a breathless 3-2 win over Depor. Betis will look to Brazilian striker Ricardo Oliveira to add to his tally of nine goals this season. - - - -

VILLARREAL (10) v BARCELONA (1) 2000

A tricky start to the year for Barcelona who will face a string of former players against a well drilled and compact Villarreal side.

Playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme, defender Juan Pablo Sorin and goalkeeper Pepe Reina all played at the Nou Camp and will be especially motivated for this encounter.

Barca will be without suspended full backs Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Juliano Belletti, but French playmaker Ludovic Giuly is back fit after a groin injury. Villarreal have several doubts after a flu bug hit the squad. - - - -
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