DEFENDER James Bree insisted Saints are excited to face Arsenal in the FA Cup but will not let the occasion distract them from their aims.

Head coach Tonda Eckert has said Saints - unbeaten in the last 14 games - will not view this game against the Premier League leaders as a free hit.

They could provide a memorable cup upset by beating the Champions League outfit at St Mary's, denying them the chance to win a famous treble.

The St Mary's side extinguished Manchester City's quadruple hopes under Nathan Jones in 2022/23 by beating them 2-0 in the Carabao Cup.

And beyond the chance of reaching Wembley, Bree also knows that beating Arsenal would boost spirits as Saints aim for a Premier League return.

"We're all really excited. It's a really good opportunity for us and a good challenge against an unbelievable team," he told the Daily Echo.

James Bree scored an FA Cup winner against Leicester in the fourth round. (Image: Stuart Martin)

READ: Eckert insists he has found 'a couple ways to hurt' Arsenal