Middlesbrough vs Aston Villa Match Thread

[N'ZMAV]

should have gone full strength.

[Holte132]

I'm sure it's already been pointed out that the last time we played Middlesbrough in the FA Cup was in 1957!

Ssssshhhhhhhhhh!

Sorry!

[frank black]

Durans farewell appearance.

He’s started following us again on Insta, so he’s staying (today)

[pauliewalnuts]

Why?

We can't keep playing the same players all the time. We're competing in 3 competitions, one of which is the most demanding league in the world.

If Luiz picked up an injury in a game like this, people would be going nuts about why we played him when we didn't need to.

I'd much, much rather we rested players. It doesn't matter if there's one league game in the next three weeks, it is vital we win as many of them as we can, and if this helps, so be it.

[Risso]

That looks to me like the right blend of experience and resting players.

[AGRIPPA]

C’mon me babbies!!

[Hookeysmith]

Why is there such a gap until our next game?

[Dave P]

We play next weekend?

[paul_e]

That looks to me like the right blend of experience and resting players.

Pretty much, I'd like to see Konsa and McGinn come off early if we have chance because they've played a lot of minutes but at least Watkins and Luiz have been held back.

[Dave P]

We don’t play the week after due the premier leagues planned winter break.

[Tony Daleys Shorts]

Happy enough with that side, let’s annihilate the fuckers.

[Astnor]

John McGinn ain’t getting a break this season is he!?  It’s a strong line up and a great chance for Duran.  I hope we don’t get any injuries and win without fuss.

Some players just thrive on playing and don’t need resting, they’re a rare breed but SJM is one of them.

If I were to see said young man climbing the stairs to lift the trophy in May, then I’ll die a happy man.

Yes, i remember a interview with him - after a Scotland game a couple a month ago I think, asked about playing two games a week ish he said that it was just a dream coming through ish being in a position to play so much good games and that he really enjoyrd every bit if it ish.

[Clampy]

We dare leave two players out and people are still whinging.

[olaftab]

Taking it seriously then. Good.

Not quite. Needed Luiz and Watkins in the starting XI to be serious about the Cup.

[PeterWithesShin]

Last away FA Cup game we won was 3-1 at Bristol Rovers in 2012. The only other one we haven't lost is Wycombe when Micah Richards scored. It's about time we buried these FA Cup records with a thumping win.