1. Van Nistelrooy Returns as a Potential Villain
Ruud van Nistelrooy is set for a dramatic return to Old Trafford, this time as Leicester’s manager, after being replaced at Manchester United earlier in the season. Having led United to two victories over Leicester before his departure, he now has the chance to knock his former club out of the competition. While United fans will likely welcome him warmly, an upset could temporarily turn him into a villain in their eyes.
Fixture: Manchester United vs. Leicester, Friday 8pm
2. Leyton Orient Look to Defy the Odds
Leyton Orient face an uphill battle against reigning champions Manchester City. Richie Wellens’ squad has been strengthened by four new signings, but City have also bolstered their ranks with a £172m investment in four players. With Orient dreaming of replicating their 1978 semi-final run, they will need to produce a historic performance to stand any chance.
Fixture: Leyton Orient vs. Manchester City, Saturday 12.15pm
3. Palmer Seeks to Secure Ipswich No. 1 Spot
Alex Palmer is set for a defining moment in his career as he takes over the starting goalkeeper role at Ipswich. The former West Brom keeper has waited years for a top-flight opportunity, and with Ipswich’s defensive struggles in recent weeks, he faces immediate pressure to steady the backline against Coventry.
Fixture: Coventry vs. Ipswich, Saturday 3pm
4. Bournemouth Can End Goodison’s FA Cup Era
Bournemouth have a history of causing problems for Everton, having already beaten them twice this season. A win here would not only end Everton’s FA Cup hopes but also mark the final FA Cup match at Goodison Park before the club moves to their new stadium. Bournemouth’s form has been strong despite injuries, and they could yet embark on a deep cup run.
Fixture: Everton vs. Bournemouth, Saturday 3pm
5. Newcastle Face a Tactical Test Against Birmingham
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe will not take Birmingham lightly, knowing that Chris Davies’ side has impressed in League One. Davies, who has worked under Brendan Rodgers and Ange Postecoglou, has instilled a strong tactical identity in his team. With Newcastle potentially rotating their squad after reaching the Carabao Cup final, this could be a closer contest than expected.
Fixture: Birmingham vs. Newcastle, Saturday 3pm
6. Brighton Need a Response Against Chelsea
After suffering a humiliating 7-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, Brighton must bounce back as they face Chelsea twice in quick succession. Manager Fabian Hürzeler will hope that Carlos Baleba returns to midfield, as his absence was sorely felt last weekend. Brighton must sharpen up both defensively and in attack to avoid another heavy defeat.
Fixture: Brighton vs. Chelsea, Saturday 8pm
7. Emmanuel Dennis Looks for Redemption
After a disappointing spell at Nottingham Forest, Emmanuel Dennis is hoping to revive his career at Blackburn. The Nigerian striker has struggled to find his form in recent years, but with Blackburn struggling for goals, this could be the perfect opportunity for him to make an impact.
Fixture: Blackburn vs. Wolves, Sunday 12.30pm
8. Plymouth Aim to Shock Liverpool
Plymouth’s under-18 side stunned Everton earlier this week, and now the senior team hopes to deliver an even bigger upset against Liverpool. While the odds are heavily against them, Plymouth’s recent form has improved under new manager Miron Muslic, and they will be eager to put up a fight in front of a packed Home Park.
Fixture: Plymouth vs. Liverpool, Sunday 3pm
9. Rashford’s Fresh Start at Aston Villa
All eyes will be on Marcus Rashford as he begins his new chapter at Aston Villa. After falling out of favor at Manchester United, Rashford has plenty to prove regarding both his ability and attitude. A strong performance against Tottenham could mark the beginning of his resurgence.
Fixture: Aston Villa vs. Tottenham, Sunday 5.35pm
10. Crystal Palace Target FA Cup Run
Crystal Palace narrowly missed out on a Carabao Cup semi-final, but Oliver Glasner now has his sights set on a deep FA Cup run. Facing League Two’s Doncaster, Palace are expected to field a strong lineup as they aim to reach the fifth round for only the third time since 2016.
Fixture: Doncaster vs. Crystal Palace, Monday 7.45pm
