Charlton v Rochdale

ALAN CURBISHLEY has described Saturday's FA Cup, third round, tie against Rochdale at The Valley as "a classic game for the punters".

The Charlton boss stressed: "Rochdale will be looking forward to it with glee because our Cup record in the past has been awful. So we won't take anything for granted because it's the chance to progress in a knock-out competition."

If Charlton are seeking good omens ahead of Saturday's tie, they need look no further than 1947 when they last played Rochdale at The Valley on January 11. The Addicks won 3-1 and went on to beat Burnley 1-0 after extra time at Wembley to win the FA Cup.

A compromise with the Football Association has been reached over pricing after Charlton wanted to reduce prices. Tickets for adults have been priced at £18 adults, £12 senior citizens and under-18s and £8 under-16s.

Rochdale manager Steve Parkin admits he would have preferred to have faced the Addicks at home.

He explained: "While I'm pleased with the opportunity to pit our wits against Premier League opposition, I would have preferred a home draw because our form at Spotland is very good. But you cannot argue with pulling a top flight side out of the hat."

He added: "I know Alan Curbishley very well and I'm looking forward to seeing him again."

Striker Shaun Bartlett, who missed Monday’s defeat against Blackburn with a tight hamstring, should be fit for the clash, as should fellow striker Francis Jeffers who underwent surgery for in-growing toe nails.

Should a replay be necessary it will be at Spotland on Tuesday, January 18.