FA cup 3rd round weekend

With the FA cup 3rd round weekend kicking off on Friday night, it always raises the question to true football fans, does it still have the love factor it used to?
I very much doubt it, big clubs obviously have European football to worry about along with the Premier League.
Last years winners Pompey did well to win it, this year I very much doubt they will get pass the 4th round, personally speaking I think Manchester City or Aston Villa have the best shot, Man U, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea all have European football back in Feb, Arsene Wenger might only be the manager out of the four to want to win the cup, not just for the fans but deep down for him.
Mark Hughes has to win something and the FA cup is the best opportunity for him, the new owners will need some incentive to attract the big players and Hughes needs it to keep him in his new job. I think Hughes providing he has a couple of home legs may fly through to the semi.
Villa although still within a shout of the champions league finishing place in the Premiership will want to win to keep the momentum going and make sure they have a place in the new style UFEA cup, this would also allow O Neal to buy and attract bigger players which he will need to be consider a contender next season.
The FA cup is still probably the biggest domestic cup competition in the world, but definately doesnt have the kudos or the importance it once did.
Possible shocks this weekend it could be: -
Hartlepool win over Stoke, Stoke need to concentrate on their run in to avoid relegation.
Barrow away win against Boro, Boro been poor and the underdogs will definately be up for the away win.
Peterborough away win at West Brom, another team definately involved in the relegation battle and will in the back of their minds enjoy being able to concentrate on the fight over the next 5 months.

My prediciton this year could be Arsenal win, providing they play experienced players away from The Emirates, but strongly fancy Villa and City. Never discount the big three Man U, Liverpool and Chelsea but their targets would be the Premier League and Champions league.

Danny Denhard