This 24/1 treble will have you gagging for upsets!
Derby v Southampton - 15:00
Derby have already shown they’re up for a proper cup run this season, and I’m backing them to beat Premier League Southampton at 9/5.
The Rams, though after extra-time, still beat Manchester United at Old Trafford in the League Cup, before succumbing 3-2 against Chelsea despite a brilliant performance.
They look to be a side who relish the big occasion, making them strong ‘cupset’ candidates (again, it wouldn’t be that much of a surprise).
The Saints have undoubtedly improved under Ralph Hasenhüttl, but there’s an unhinged spirit about this Derby side, so I’m plumping for them.
Aston Villa v Swansea - 15:00
At 3/1, Swansea are a nice price to beat Aston Villa on Saturday.
Though Dean Smith’s men have made themselves hard to beat of late, they’ve failed to win in four home games (scoring 11 and conceding 12 in the process), so Swansea will surely fancy nicking this.
There’s always a bit of pot luck involved with guessing FA Cup scores in the early rounds, but this all-Championship clash really could go either way. Graham Potter’s side have won three of their last five away games, so they’re not to be counted out.
At such a big price, an away win sees the value of this treble skyrocket.
Bristol City v Huddersfield - 17:30
Calling a Bristol City victory over Huddersfield an ‘upset’ would be a stretch; the Robins may be in the league below their visitors, but Huddersfield have lost eight Premier League matches in-a-row – most recently in crushing fashion against Burnley – which will surely see confidence reach an all-time low.
City are unbeaten in eight, and you have to fancy them on Saturday. Lee Johnson’s side are fairly marooned in mid-table, and are at liberty to play a stronger side than the Terriers; last season’s League Cup semi-final run will also give the team confidence, especially considering they beat Manchester United along the way.
A 13/10 home win is my final pick.
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