The fixture list has been kind for once, with the Emirates FA Cup fourth round handing West Ham United away tie against League One strugglers Burton Albion.

On paper, this is exactly the sort of draw you want, lower-league opposition, and a real chance to build momentum. Burton arrive sitting in the bottom three of League One, but don’t be fooled: they’re this season’s top FA Cup scorers with 14 goals and won’t come quietly.

Boss Nuno Espírito Santo has already confirmed Alphonse Areola will start, and rotation is expected. That said, with our attacking depth being what it is, Nuno can only shuffle the pack so much. I wouldn’t be shocked if either Bowen or Summerville still makes the XI.

Match Details

• Competition: Emirates FA Cup – Fourth Round

• Date: Saturday 14 February 2026

• Kick-off: 12:15pm GMT

West Ham come into this one in decent nick – four wins from our last six in all competitions – and fresh from a hard-earned Premier League point against Manchester United. Progressing here would take...