Keeper Richard Knight says Oxford City are more than capable of pulling off a shock when they take on his former side Burton Albion in the FA Cup first round at the Pirelli Stadium on Sunday.
The former Oxford United stopper, 30, who made 49 appearances for the U’s, has recovered from the thigh injury he suffered during City’s victory against Bury Town in the fourth qualifying round.
And Knight, who was snapped up by City boss Mike Ford in the summer after he was released by Brackley, is in the perfect position to judge the qualities of both teams as he lives just five minutes from Burton’s ground.
But there won’t be a lie-in for Knight, who was born and bred in the Staffordshire town.
He will travel down to Oxford to train on Saturday before staying over and going up with the team on Sunday.
“I just have to fall out of bed and I’m there – it’s five or ten minutes at the most,” said Knight, who made his debut as a 16-year-old for Burton, before having spells at Derby, Oxford, Hull, Birmingham and Macclesfield.
“I have seen them a few times and it will be a very tough game, but there is nothing to be afraid of.
“They play good football and that will suit us because we have got some good players in our side. I think it will be an open game, but we certainly have a chance of winning it.
“It’s always a fantastic day when you get to the first round. And to have friends and family from the area there will make it even more special.
“I want us to show that the football we play is a good standard.”
Knight added: “When the draw was made, I think they were disappointed they didn’t draw a bigger team.
“And because they drew us, some are presuming they will get through and get a big draw in the next round.
“It’s going to be a hard game, but hopefully we can get something. Even a draw would be a great result.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here