Crystal Palace v Preston North End
The FA Cup sponsored by E.ON
Fourth Round Proper
3pm, Saturday 27 January 2007
Selhurst Park
Winning clubs will receive £60,000 from The FA
Fourth Round - Click Here





Sir Tom Finney says The FA Cup still gives him an extra buzz as he prepares to watch his beloved Preston take on Crystal Palace in this weekend’s Fourth Round.

The North End and England legend, who scored 30 goals in 76 appearances for the Three Lions, is still a massive fan of his hometown club more than 60 years after making his debut for them.

He showed the Lancashire side an incredible loyalty during his playing days, chalking up 473 games for the club over 14 years.

And these days his loyalty is being handsomely rewarded because, as club president, he is witnessing an amazing Preston revival.

North End are challenging strongly for promotion to the Premiership and this weekend face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park with a chance of reaching the Fifth Round.

Finney, who never won The FA Cup but hit 23 goals in 40 ties during his career, said: "It’s been a very good season so far and things are looking good for North End.

"I still go to all the home games and it would be wonderful to see us in the Premiership. I think it could happen but there is a long way to go.

"The FA Cup is important for us too. For me The FA Cup is always exciting. It’s started very well for us this season and it still has a magic for me.

"It’s the same for every player, they look forward to The FA Cup more than any other. It would be wonderful to see North End at Wembley but we have to think about it one game at a time. We have to beat Crystal Palace first."

Finney had some wonderful days at Wembley himself, of course, playing for England alongside the likes of Stanley Matthews. And with the possibility of this year’s final being staged at the legendary venue it gives him an extra buzz.

"It would be marvellous to see Wembley again," he said. "It was always a great occasion playing there and from what I hear the new stadium is going to be something to remember."

Sir Tom Finney was one of England's best strikers - check out his England stats by clicking here.