There could be a few disappointed Manchester United fans when the teamsheet drops at the DW Stadium on Monday night. Despite their struggles so far this season, United will be heavy favourites to beat Wigan in the third round and there will be pressure on the players to deliver amid the possibility of a shock exit.
An FA Cup run can often be a much-needed form of escapism from struggles in the league and for Erik ten Hag, the competition offers a real opportunity to build confidence and get their season back on track.
Fail to win and the pressure on him might reach the point of no return. BUILD UP: Wigan vs Man Utd team news and TV channel TEAM NEWS: How United should line up tonight It is understandable why the trip to Wigan has been presented as an opportunity to experiment with team selection and give some fringe players a chance to shine, but the stakes are so high that it would be no surprise if United went as strong as they possibly could.
United stand to play just three matches this calendar month if they win tonight and it could be as few as two if they were to be on the receiving end of a humiliating exit.