There will be extra motivation for Chatham’s players on Saturday when they take on Ryman League Division 1 North high-fliers Heybridge Swifts.

League points are only part of the equation for Kevin Watson’s men, who have FA Cup history on their minds.

Chatham have been drawn away to Whyteleafe in the second qualifying round, having last reached that stage of the competition 18 years ago. Now the Chats players are all vying to be selected for the game, with a good performance in the league on Saturday bound to push their case.

Watson said: “The players are probably aware of that. If they’re not, they should be. I can only pick 11 players so some people are going to miss out. I can’t deny I’m pleased with the draw but I’ll only be pleased with it if we go and beat them.

“It gives us a good chance but Whyteleafe will probably feel the same way.” Chatham are favourites to beat the Southern Counties East side and take the club into the third qualifying round for the first time since 1993.

There is a more immediate task at hand, though. Chatham face a Heybridge side unbeaten in the league and Watson isn’t surprised by their start.

He said: “Heybridge are always a big force in this league. They could cope in the Ryman Premier and they’ll be looking to get promoted."

Watson has a fully-fit squad at his disposal for the first time this season. However, defender Kes Metitri has played his last game for Chatham after leaving by mutual consent this week.