Sunderland V Notts County Preview

Back in 1973 this is where it all started before we beat the favourites Leeds United in the final.

We need to hope this is an omen as Sunderland look to have a good cup run this season.ht

Alex Rae will make an emotional return to the Stadium of Light as assistant manager behind Paul Ince with Notts County.

With news that Sunderland are in the process of trying to sign Muntari and Sessegnon this will be a chance for all fringe players to make an impact.

Bruce said: "I have said all along I would love a cup run.

"I have been hopeless in the cups in the past, but hopefully that will change and this will be our year.

"However, anybody who is a slight risk will not play because we have the derby the following week.

"For instance, Asamoah Gyan will not play. We will wrap him in cotton wool and try to get him 100% right for the Newcastle match.

"That will go for two or three others who are also carrying knocks.

"Saying that, it will not be a case of not taking it seriously tomorrow - far from it, I want to get through. I do have to be sensible, though, and it will give me the opportunity to use the squad.

"These games are never easy, but to be fair we should still have enough depth in our squad to get through to the next round."

Sunderland were handed a great double injury boost today by hearing Meyler will be out for 10 weeks and Welbeck for only three.

Sunderland have recalled Colback and Reid from loan spells and the team will be full of changes.

Making his comeback after a loan spell for Sheff Utd he will be aiming to prove a point to Steve Bruce.

Paul Ince and Alex Rae will be without their top goalscorer Thomas Ince, Alan Judge and Lee Miller.

Their biggest threat and with him back in the spotlight he will look to make amends for his troubled past.

Kept clean sheets in five of seven.

Sunderland played Notts County in the 3rd round in the year we won the Cup last in 1973.

Referee: Stuart Attwell Assistant referees: William Smallwood and Richard West Fourth official: Bobby Madley

Sunderland 2-0 Notts County

The filth arrive on our doorsteps next Sunday at noon.

Let the revenge commence!

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