Alan Shearer's FA Cup Fourth Round Predictions: Upsets and Favorites
The Premier League takes a temporary pause this weekend as the FA Cup fourth round commands the spotlight, with England legend and Betfair ambassador Alan Shearer offering his expert insights to Metro. Following shocking third-round exits by Manchester United and holders Crystal Palace, who fell to sixth-tier Macclesfield, the stage is set for more drama. Chelsea kick off the action against Hull City, while Manchester City face Salford City, and Arsenal aim to avoid a stumble at home to Wigan Athletic.
Macclesfield vs Brentford: Can the Giant-Killers Continue?
Macclesfield's fairytale run after stunning Crystal Palace has captured imaginations, but Shearer doubts they can replicate that against Brentford. "Probably not with the form that Brentford are in and the way Keith Andrews has got them playing, but it'll be tough," he notes. He warns that Brentford must avoid becoming the weekend's standout upset, emphasizing the unique challenge for higher-tier teams in unfamiliar environments.
Aston Villa vs Newcastle: A Tactical Battle
Shearer highlights this as a big game, with both sides likely to rotate squads. He praises Newcastle's improved performance at Spurs, citing more energy and threat in attack. However, with a grueling schedule ahead—including a Champions League trip to Azerbaijan—Newcastle face tough times. Despite Aston Villa's brilliant season, sitting third in the Premier League, Shearer predicts form may go out the window in the cup. "Normally if it was a league game I would go in with a draw but clearly I can't. I'm going to stick with Newcastle to go through to the next round," he asserts.
Liverpool vs Brighton: Pressure and Resilience
Liverpool, under pressure after recent struggles and fan discontent, impressed Shearer at Sunderland with solid defending from Konate and Van Dijk. He believes they were unlucky against Manchester City and expects them to continue winning ways, especially with no game next week allowing a strong lineup. Brighton will try to exploit Liverpool's pressure, but Shearer sees it as a big ask for the Seagulls.
Hull vs Chelsea: Rosenior's Dilemma
Shearer points to Hull manager Liam Rosenior's big dilemma: prioritize Premier League promotion or pursue an FA Cup run. With a home crowd and BBC coverage, Hull could create a tough atmosphere, but Chelsea's depth and rotation options should prove decisive. "I still think they'll have too much for Hull," Shearer concludes.
Other Key Matches: City, Arsenal, and Wolves
- Manchester City vs Salford: Guardiola will rotate, but City's form should see them through comfortably.
- Arsenal vs Wigan: Arteta is expected to rest players after the Brentford draw, with Arsenal favored to advance without a major upset.
- Grimsby vs Wolves: Grimsby showed appetite against Manchester United, but Wolves, under pressure in the league, might relish the cup. Shearer predicts a narrow Wolves win.
Shearer's predictions underscore the FA Cup's unpredictability, where giant-killing acts and tactical shifts define the competition. As the action unfolds, fans can expect thrilling encounters and potential surprises across the board.
