While the FA Cup takes centre stage this weekend, there are also three Championship fixtures on Saturday, with opportunities for several clubs to take advantage of others not playing.
Blackburn Rovers, currently sat second in the division, have had a wonderful season so far and will definitely back themselves to get something at Russell Martin’s out-of-form Swansea City.
Elsewhere, there are two mid-table clashes in the second tier, as Hull City play host to Preston North End and Blackpool are at home to Bristol City.
Rovers to Pick up Valuable Win
Blackburn have been the real surprise packages of the Championship this season and are in a great position to end their ten-year exile from the Premier League.
Tony Mowbray had to largely make do with loans and free transfers in the summer window, as well as seeing the departure of his star forward Adam Armstrong to Southampton.
But a siege mentality has been built at Ewood Park and another goalscorer has emerged in the form of Ben Brereton Diaz.
He will return to action after being on Chile duty as he seeks a 21st Championship goal of the season.
Blackburn have had a tiny wobble recently, winning just two of their last five games but they should feel confident at the prospect of facing Swansea.
Martin’s side have won only one of their last eight and failed to score in their last three and Rovers can be backed to win 1-0 at 11/2.
New Boss Bounce for Tigers
On the face of it, Grant McCann’s sacking by Hull was pretty harsh, given he had steered them relatively well clear of relegation danger.
But a new takeover can always lead to uncertainty and owner Acun Ilicali decided to turn to former Rangers forward Shota Arveladze.
He got off to the perfect start last weekend as the Tigers defeated Swansea 2-0 to make it three wins in a row.
The next challenge is Preston, who have been one of the draw specialists in the Championship this season.
Ryan Lowe’s side have been beaten only once in their last eight matches, but four draws suggest they haven’t quite got the quality required to mount a play-off charge.
Hull’s relatively strong home form – 13 points from their last six games – should ensure victory in this one and they can be backed at 12/1 to win 2-0.
Seasiders to Benefit From Home Comforts
The third and final Championship game on Saturday sees Blackpool face Bristol City in another match between two sides who look destined for mid-table.
That will be regarded as a great result for Neil Critchley’s side who have been the best performing of the three promoted clubs, while Nigel Pearson might be slightly disappointed with the Robins.
The Seasiders’ recent home form has been good – they have lost just two of their last seven games at Bloomfield Road.
Meanwhile, City haven’t won away from home since the start of October and Blackpool can be backed to win with both teams to score at 3/1.
*All odds correct at time of writing
