'THERE'S AN OPPORTUNITY THERE FOR US' SAYS PARKER AHEAD OF FA CUP CLASH

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Clarets boss eyeing up FA Cup Quarter Final spot

2025-02-27T16:27:11.936Z

'THERE'S AN OPPORTUNITY THERE FOR US' SAYS PARKER AHEAD OF FA CUP CLASH

Clarets boss eyeing up FA Cup Quarter Final spot

2025-02-27T16:27:11.936Z

FA CUP MATCH PREVIEW: PRESTON NORTH END V BURNLEY - Image 5

Head Coach Scott Parker is relishing the opportunity of his side potentially reaching the Emirates FA Cup Quarter-Finals on Saturday, but is well aware of the test his side will face coming up against Preston North End.

The Clarets have played out two goalless draws this season in the Sky Bet Championship with the Lilywhites, but there has to be a winner this weekend when Burnley travel to Deepdale in the fifth round of the competition.

Speaking to the media on Thursday ahead of the Lancashire derby, Parker highlighted the importance of continuing the momentum and fine run of form and that the 'main aim' is to head to Preston and progress into the next round.

The Burnley boss said: "Look, we're looking forward to it. There's an opportunity there for us to reach an FA Cup Quarter-Final, but we know we are coming up against really good opposition.

"It's about continuing that momentum now and the main aim for us this weekend is going there, getting into the next round and progressing into the quarter-finals.

"We also know that they will be thinking the exact same and looking to reach the next round too, but the cup can bring special moments and that's what this competition brings, so we'll see where it takes us."

'THERE'S AN OPPORTUNITY THERE FOR US' SAYS PARKER AHEAD OF FA CUP CLASH - Image 1

The competition has provided an opportunity for Parker to rotate his squad this season and look to utilise players to get minutes into them and there will be a chance for that again this weekend, admitted the Clarets chief.

"Everyone is working really hard to get minutes and get into the team. The boys that have come into the side when called upon have been amazing and done very well, so full credit to them.

"It's another good opportunity to get minutes into players and get them match-ready, because I know how quickly things can change in football and I know all these boys could play every week, but in football you can only pick 11 players."

The FA Cup is a competition recognised around the globe and Parker spoke about the 'magical' memories he has of the competition from growing up as a youngster.

"When I was growing up it was the biggest thing, waking up on FA Cup final day and watching the team buses leave the hotel and all the coverage of it was magical.

"I used to love it, sat in front of the TV all day watching the build-up, the game and the trophy presentation."