Experienced midfielder says Rovers should have the nous to avoid any upset.
James Coppinger insists that, to him, the FA Cup has lost none of its sparkle over the years.The experienced midfielder is expected to lead Rovers out when they take on Weston Super Mare on Saturday in the first round at Woodspring Stadium and said he can understand the roles of both David and Goliath.
“The FA cup was massive when I was growing up. That’s what it was all about when I went to watch Middlesbrough in numerous cup ties and then Newcastle in the FA cup final so I’ve been in and around it and I’ve played in FA cup ties,” said the 33 year old.
“It’s a wonderful competition and for teams like Weston Super Mare to have an opportunity to go on and even Doncaster for us to go on and play some big teams and do so well in this cup means loads to the fans and the players.”
Coppinger, who spent time in non league whilst with Exeter City, knows that the Seagulls can’t be taken lightly however.
“I was sat with my two boys watching the draw and they didn’t really know who Weston Super Mare were but obviously I’ve been down there, I know what they’re about and I’ve seen a few of my friends play non league football,” he said.
“When you’re sat at home watching it you always want the underdog and you always want to see the underdog win so when you’re on the other side of it, it’s massively about the mindset and how you approach the game as a group of players, not as an individual.”