Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup tie at Middlesbrough is far from an inconvenience, according to Chris Coleman.
This weekend’s cup action at the Riverside Stadium marks a break from league competition, with the Black Cats currently bottom of the Sky Bet Championship and anxious to move up the table.
Defeat against Barnsley saw Coleman’s men make a disappointing start to 2018, but although no points are on offer this weekend he refused to downplay the importance of bouncing back.
And speaking to safc.com, he revealed he’s thoroughly looking forward to Saturday’s game against Tony Pulis’ side.
“Maybe I’m an old romantic, but I’m really looking forward to it,” said Coleman.
“We’re away from the pressures of the league, it’s the famous FA Cup, and I can’t help but be excited about that.”
He continued: “No matter where we are in the league, it is still another game we want to win and do well in.
“I understand the importance of our league situation, but it’s a competitive game against a team down the road and we want to do well.
“We need to start building on a result and a performance, not just spiking with a good and bad one.
“It’s not easy to win in our situation, but not impossible, it’s doable.
“Whether it’s Middlesbrough this week or Barnsley the last game, we have to do it and Boro is a good game for us.
“It’s a great chance to put a positive performance in.”