Out of form Birmingham face best defence in the country

Following the Grimsby game being called off only a few hours before kick off, the U's have had a few more days to rest before a huge cup tie. The FA Cup is known as the greatest competition in club football and with upsets occurring each year, all lower league sides are praying it's their lucky year. The U's previously beat Stockport County in an away win on penalties.

The Opposition

Birmingham City, founded in 1875, are currently 14th in the Championship following a promotion out of League One thanks to their wealthy owners. The Blues have signed multiple fantastic players, such as Paik and Stansfield, under the ownership of Tom Brady & Co. Despite all the investment they are sat midtable and only have 1 win in the last 5 and conceding goals in the same time. Form that manager Chris Davies won't be proud of. That being said, on paper this is a great chance for them to build on their 3-2 win against Coventry.

Keys to Victory

The U's will have to battle physically throughout the full 90 minutes in order to come close to Birmingham City. The U's will firstly look to win every 1v1 as Phil Neumann, their starting centre back, is 6'2ft (190cm). The U's will likely play direct to Appere up front so to stop Birmingham winning the ball at ease, Harris will require work from Appere and the wide players to win the ball and get into dangerous areas.

Secondly, be mentally switched on. As legs tire so does the mind but those in amber can't afford to do so. The game is likely to see at least 60% possession for the travelling side so the U's will need to be compact in the middle of the pitch and expansive when the ball is lost. Birmingham are 6th in possession per game in the Championship with 54%.

The U's should get involved in the dark arts as much as possible. This Birmingham side give away 11.5 fouls on average every game and rank 4th in yellow cards and 1st for reds compared to the rest of the Championship. It can't be obvious, but the U's have to buy anything and everything. Although many fans don't like to see it, it would frustrate Birmingham and stop their momentum.

Players to watch

Stansfield - The bagsman has scored once and assisted once throughout his previous 4 visits against United, only losing once whilst at Fulham U21 when the sides clashed in the EFL Trophy. Stansfield has had a rapid rise to success and aged just 23 he still has a long way to go in his career. Despite his high price tag, he has 11 goal contributions this season. Despite a good return halfway through the season, he hasn't netted since 22nd November in a win against Norwich.

Seung-Ho Paik - The South Korean magician in midfield is a key instrument in the orchestra conducted by Chris Davies. Paik has dictated play throughout his 2 years and 96 games for the Blues. Paik wins 54% of his duels every game and has an 86.1% pass completion percentage every game. Paik will be key for the Blues who will have to find gaps in a well oiled defensive machine.

U's news

Centre back Kell Watts signed a 1 year contract extension. In an interview with the club, Watts said he "was absolutely delighted" when presented a contract extension. The Geordie later went on to say the "great training ground...great people...great place to live" as all bonuses to him signing his extension.

U's getting ready for their FA Cup tie against Birmingham City.