Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill hoping FA Cup can end 40-year trophy drought
Saturday 5 January 2013 14:04, UK
Image:Martin O'Neill: Hoping the 40-year anniversary of Sunderland's last FA Cup win can inspire further glory
Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill admits the club are 'crying out' for success as they prepare to mark 40 years since lifting their last major trophy.
Respect
Many clubs choose to rest key players in the early round of the cup, something O'Neill does not subscribe to.
This is due to his respect both for the 142 year-old competition and the 5,000 strong contingent of Sunderland fans, who will be travelling down to the Reebok Stadium for the game.
"For that reason, that's exactly you don't want to let people down," he added.
"We'll give it everything. Even if I was in position to rotate the squad more, I'd still want to give the competition the respect it's due."
