Arsenal v Blackburn Rovers
The FA Cup, Semi-Final
Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
16 April 2005, 12.15pm
15 April 2005    
Interview: Mark Hughes Semi-Final Preview

 Click here to download Windows Media Player.
 

Blackburn Rovers manager Mark Hughes could take a step nearer to an incredible fifth FA Cup winners' medal on Saturday, with Arsenal standing in his Blackburn side's way.

Having already taken points away from Old Trafford, Anfield and Goodison Park in recent weeks, the former Manchester United striker insists that his team does not fear the Gunners. 

"I don't think the expectations of people not connected with Blackburn Rovers are particularly high for us, but The FA Cup is full of upsets and games that don't always go as people expect them to. Whoever wins the game will have to play well," he says.

"Arsenal know for their part that they'll need to play extremely well to beat us; we're a very resolute side and we are a threat at the other end as well. 

"Arsenal, among other teams, know that we're a very difficult team to beat.

"The game is going to be a tough one for us, but not one that we'll have any apprehension about or any fear about. We feel that we can win the game." 

He added: "The Semi-Final is a totally different set of circumstances and who knows what might happen?

"In fairness to Arsenal and Arsene Wenger, after they played us he said good things about us.

"He understands we're a difficult side to play against, so he will give us the respect we deserve."

To watch the full interview with Mark Hughes in which he talks about some of his memorable FA Cup moments, click on the links above.