Opinion: Why the FA Cup’s extra spark is more important than ever

But at Carrow Road this weekend, one side has to lose, and that undoubtedly adds an extra factor. 

 

There is no option for United but to give everything to try and reach the last four. And, given Norwich are six points adrift from safety at the bottom the league table, Daniel Farke’s men may be quickly swapping their eggs over to the FA Cup basket too.

 

Cup success might not make up for relegation, but it’s a hell of a tonic, as Wigan Athletic could attest, after their famous 2013 triumph over Manchester City.

 

It all adds up to the most intriguing match since we snapped back into action last Friday against Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham. And the way United are playing – which is being hugely sparked by the wit and imagination of new signing Bruno Fernandes – has the fans eager to find out what the team might produce next.