Gold: “FA Cup is high priority”

David Gold has made it clear that the FA Cup remains a “big priority” for the Irons this season and wants to see the strongest possible team take the field at Everton tomorrow evening.

The co chairman confirmed that despite injuries and Cheik Kouyate’s absence at the African Nations Cup,the board have focused on this competition since early season.

Talking exclusively to ClaretandHugh he said: “It’s always been high on our priority list and I see no reason why we can’t go up there and win.

“Mark Noble will be in the side and Enner Valencia comes in – remember he was the number one striker option until Diafra Sakho started his heroics.

“I know our record at Goodison is bad but at some stage it has to change so why not tomorrow as Everton aren’t in the best shape.”

With either Doncaster Rovers or Bristol City waiting in the fourth round, there’s plenty of incentive for the Irons.

Gold said: “I’m very hopeful. This gives players who haven’t had much chance recently to make an impression.

“Unlike last year we can give it a real go with the number of points we have gathered. I believe Sam Allardyce will put out his strongest team possible and we are looking for a win.”