Soule searching for first round proper

FC United’s assistant manager Roy Soule is confident the Reds have what it takes to beat Northwich Victoria and advance to the first round proper of the FA Cup for the first time in our club’s history.

Captain David Chadwick faces a late fitness test on a troublesome calf strain sustained in last round’s replay at Stalybridge and although Danny Warrender is making progress with his pelvic problem, he is unlikely to feature.

Despite the injuries, Roy is confident that United have what it takes to overcome their Blue Square Conference North opponents. He said: "We have no fear. We can match a lot of teams from higher up the leagues.

"As much as Karl and I respect our opposition, which we should do, we don’t worry about them because we can’t control them. The only team we have control over is our team and the important thing is that come 4.45pm we want our opposition to know they’ve been in a game."??

Karl and Roy will be tempted to stick with the same nucleus of the team which is now unbeaten in six games. Depending on Chaddy’s fitness, the only other personnel that might change is the centre of midfield but with Tunji Moses and Jake Cottrell both performing well it is unlikely.

United will have some exciting players on the bench though, not least new striker Joe Yoffee. Yoffee made a brief appearance as a substitute last week at Ashton United and Roy knows him well from his Stockport County days.

Roy said: "Joe is a predator. He’s a natural goal scorer, he does his main work inside the box and he has a good pedigree as a goal scorer."??

FC United’s newest signing, midfielder Ludovic Quistin, will not feature in the match as he is cup tied.

FC United versus Northwich Victoria is this Saturday at the Victoria Stadium with kick-off at 3pm. Tickets are available at the ticket office on the day. Get yourself to that football ground.