3 Sutton players whom Ian Baird thinks could trouble his old club

SUTTON UNITED have a proud FA Cup record, famously knocking out First Division Coventry in 1989, but they’ll need these players to hit top form on their 3G pitch today if they are to avenge a 6-0 defeat by Don Revie’s Leeds in 1970.

CRAIG EASTMOND

Made 10 appearances for Arsenal earlier in his career but slipped down the leagues before finding a new lease of life at Sutton. ‘He brings energy and bite, and has that Arsenal background where he can play,’ says Baird. You need a certain kind of mentality to come out of the Premier League where you’ve been pampered and resurrect your career at a place like this.’ Can play right-back or midfield.

ROSS WORNER

Goalkeeper with Football League experience with Charlton, Aldershot and AFC Wimbledon and chose to join Sutton rather than League Two Crawley Town, running a memorabilia business alongside his football career. ‘He has all the raw attributes to play again at a higher level,’ remarks Baird. ‘He’s been outstanding for two years and our goalkeeping coach Wayne Shaw rates him very highly.’

ROARIE DEACON

A professional career petered out after spells with Stevenage and Crawley but he’s been one of the stars of Sutton’s FA Cup run, scoring the equaliser in the 3-1 win at Wimbledon in the last round. ‘He’s got exceptional pace. Leeds won’t fancy trying to catch him,’ says Baird.