Exclusive: Sullivan’s FA Cup draw reaction

West Ham chairman David Sullivan wants Exeter in the fourth round of the FA Cup but fears the Hammers will again be pitched in to action against Liverpool on the weekend of January 29.

The Irons were drawn against one or the other of the two teams in the Fourth Round draw earlier this evening and speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh, the chairman immediately made his preferences clear.

He said: “Liverpool away is not ideal but it’s certainly not impossible. I’d love Exeter but the odds have to be stacked very much in the Premier League team’s favour.”

However the chairman made a very important point which could  work in the Hammers’ favour if a second trip to Anfield is required.

He said: “Liverpool have a very tough Capital One Cup semi-final on January 26 which isn’t great from their point of view and there may be a chance they will play an under-strength team!”