Gillingham could face Manchester United at home in the FA Youth Cup – but a big challenge awaits first.
The Gills’ under-18s were due to meet Sunderland in the cup competition tonight (Tuesday) but the game was called off on Monday amid fears that the Priestfield pitch will be frozen.
Winners of the game between the Gills and Sunderland will meet either Swindon Town or Manchester United at home in the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup.
It’s a big incentive for both teams and the fourth round tie at Priestfield has been rescheduled for Tuesday, January 23 (7pm).
With temperatures dropping, the Gills weren’t confident that the Priestfield pitch would be playable and so made an early call to prevent the north east side from making a wasted journey.
The Gills said: “This decision has been mutually agreed with Sunderland and the FA due to the forecast of freezing temperatures likely to make the playing surface unplayable.”
Any tickets already purchased for the tie will be valid for the rearranged date and refunds available for those who can’t attend.
Gillingham’s youth team – managed by Mark Moss – beat Oxford United after extra-time in round three having previously defeated Ware and Eastleigh in earlier rounds.
The Gills will face a tough test to get past Sunderland in the next round, a category 1 academy side who recently beat Manchester City’s youth side in their league.
Gills’ academy manager Bryan Bull said: “If we perform how we are capable of and ensure we are on the front foot throughout, I am sure we will give ourselves every chance of progressing into round five.”
Swindon’s match with the 11-time youth cup winners Manchester United is due to take place at the County Ground tonight (Tuesday).
