Albrighton eyes cup final

Albrighton: Hoping to reach Wembley

Aston Villa starlet Marc Albrighton has his eyes on the FA Cup final ahead of their fifth round clash with Manchester City.

Villa take on Roberto Mancini's star-studded side on Wednesday night with a home clash against Reading the prize for the victors.

The nation's second city has already enjoyed cup success this term with Birmingham City beating Arsenal on Sunday to claim the Carling Cup.

Albrighton is unsure whether their city rivals' joy will inspire Gerard Houllier's men, stating it will be an achievement in their own right if they make it all the way to Wembley.

Inspiration

"I've not really thought about whether Blues being at a final will inspire us to do the same," said Albrighton.

"It would be great to get to a cup final - no matter whether Blues have been there or not.

"We've got to beat Manchester City first and, if we do that, we've got a hard tie.

"It's going to be hard to get there but we will do our best."

Villa were mauled 4-0 by City at Eastlands in December and Albrighton is expecting a much-improved display on Wednesday.

"We were very poor up at City," he continued. "Every player in a Villa shirt didn't perform that day.

"But we've beaten them since at our place so we know we are capable of it.

"We will go there and look to pick something up. We had a great afternoon against Blackburn and we will go there in high spirits and full of confidence."