EFL CLUBS SET TO HIT CUP JACKPOT
A HOST of EFL clubs are set to cash in when the FA Cup third round takes place next weekend – win, lose or draw.
Local hero Willis targets Sky Blue glory Ryan so keen to make up for lost time
Teams chosen for live television coverage pick up a cool £144,000. While an all-Premier League tie between Liverpool and Everton has been picked out as the opening broadcast next Friday (7.55pm on BBC One), EFL clubs are soon into the fray.
League One outfit Fleetwood Town welcome back old favourite Jamie Vardy and his Leicester team on Saturday (12.45pm on BBC One), while Championship side Norwich host last season’s finalists Chelsea later in the day (5.30pm on BT Sport 1).
Four EFL clubs are in live action on Sunday. League Two outfit Newport County will seek to shock Championship high-flyers Leeds United (Noon on BBC Wales).
League One surprise package Shrewsbury Two will be out to topple David Moyes’ West Ham (2pm on BBC One) and Mark Warburton’s Nottingham Forest will bid to oust holders Arsenal (4pm on BT Sport 1).
The coverage is bookended by another all-Premier League clash – Brighton hosting Crystal Palace on the Monday (7.45pm on BT Sport 1).
The television picks will trouser more than £200,000 if they win through. On top of the £144,000 broadcast fee, third round winners bag £67,500 in prize money. Gate receipts will add to the bounty.
Bounty
Away from the television ties, there are loads of other games to look forward to.
Gary Rowett’s Championship promotion-chasers Derby County will seek to copy Bristol City’s success in the Carabao Cup by knocking out Manchester United, for once not chosen for live coverage.
The match is at Old Trafford on Friday night.
Bristol City will be out to dismiss Premier League Watford from a second cup competition this term, after having won 3-2 at Vicarage Road in the Carabao Cup back in August. Watford again have home advantage.
League One strugglers AFC Wimbledon have a trip to Wembley to face Tottenham to look forward to on Sunday.