Walsall manager Darrell Clarke: Bristol Rovers clash a 'special occasion'

After facing them in the EFL Trophy earlier this season, the Saddlers once again play the League One outfit.

Clarke spent four years there as manager and he is looking forward to playing them again with the competition and opposition providing fond memories.

"I've always loved the FA Cup growing up and it's a tournament we want to do well in," Clarke said.

"We're at home against higher opposition and we're looking forward to it.

"We know it's going to be a tough, difficult game. Especially with the injuries I have at the minute, but we'll be looking to be very competitive.

"We'll try and get on the front foot to cause a bit of an upset.

"It takes the gloss off it with not being able to have the Walsall and Bristol Rovers fans in.

"The FA Cup is such a special occasion and normally really whets the appetite of supporters. Me managing against my old club might have brought more interest to the tie as well, so we're disappointed in that aspect.

"But we're looking forward to it nonetheless.

"We had fantastic times to get back-to-back promotions and the highest finish in the last 21 years.

"To take the club to those highs brought special memories for myself and the football club.

"But you move on. Football managers move on and I want to build success at Walsall.

"I'm really enjoying my job here with sleepless nights trying to bring success to this football club.

"Good times at Bristol but I'm enjoying my times here now."

When asked what his reaction was when Walsall were drawn with Rovers, Clarke added: "To reply to the 100 messages I got in the space of five minutes.

"It's football. Managers can come up against their old teams.

"It was certainly a surprise and a shock. But we'll take it, it's a home tie for us and we're looking forward to it.

"I have one or two players that used to be Bristol Rovers as well, so we're looking forward to the occasion. But you only look forward to it if you win the football match.

"With no replay as well, it will be decided tomorrow and we'll be giving it a right good go."

Meanwhile, midfielder Stuart Sinclair will be hoping to start against his former club tomorrow.

The 32-year-old spent five years at Rovers before joining Walsall.

"Everyone, players and supporters, always look forward to the FA Cup," Sinclair said.

"It's steeped in history and as a football fan you grow up with that.

"Anyone can play anyone and it's amazing just to be involved in it.

"It's a good draw isn't it.

"They're a club close to my heart and I had amazing times there, I loved every minute of it.

"To be able to play them in the FA Cup is definitely something I'll look back on when I finish my career.

"Reminisce on playing in a tie that is so close to me.

"They're two massive clubs steeped in history and it's so nice to be involved."