Speaking after Boxing Day’s dramatic 1-1 draw to local rivals Hyde, Steve Cunningham said: “I don’t think we deserved to lose but I don't think we deserved to win.

“Having James Hardy, Jason Gilchrist and Callum Rowe back on the pitch. We are just starting to get people back so there will be no excuses.”

Looking ahead to Derby Day on Thursday, the gaffer said: “We always enjoy going to FC, I’ve got a good record there of late.

“If we can take the performances of what we had and a little bit more belief and quality in the final third, we’ve got a chance to beat anybody.”

Opposition Watch

After finishing two spots above the relegation places last season, FC United have enjoyed a remarkable turnaround this year, currently sitting third and only five points off league leaders Hednesford, who they snatched a point from on Saturday at Keys Park.

Last Time We Met

The two sides last faced off in August at Hurst Cross, which resulted in a 3-1 victory for the Robins, courtesy of goals from Luke Burke, Alex Byrne and Callum Rowe.

Matchday

Tickets are available to purchase for cash or card payments on the gate. They are priced at £15 for adults, £10.50 for concessions (65+), £5 for 18-21-year-olds, £3 for under 18’s and under 5’s go free.

Under 14’s must be accompanied by an adult.

Kick off: 15:00 on Thursday 1st January (Turnstiles open at 13:00).

If you cannot make it to FC United, you can keep up to date via our Twitter feed @AshtonUnitedFC or by listening to our commentary on Robins Live.