Magic of the Cup draws Safri home

Last updated : 28 January 2008 By Chris C
Short of getting one of the big four away, Bristol Rovers represents an excellent tie for Saints. After putting Fulham out of the Cup at home, League One Bristol will feel that they can get a result against Championship Saints.

However, Saints have avoided the Premiership teams in the draw and will arguably under less pressure to win away at Bristol Rovers. If Saints can get up for the game, hopefully boosted by a fired up new manager, then we have a great chance of going through.

To cap a great day in the Cups for Saints, Morrocco went out of the African Nations Cup unexpectedly early. What's bad for Morrocco is good for Saints with the early return of midfield lynchpin Safri who should be available for Saturday's game against in-form Palace.

To say he has been missed is something of an understatement, with the balance in central midfield all wrong with various blends of Euell, Wright, Idiakez and Surman all failing to provide the right combination.

Who knows Saints may even restore their most effective central midfield partnership this season and get Jhon Viafara back onto the field for Palace. Let's hope that the caretaker managers have the courage to change things around.