Always Visit www.NaijaCover.Com

Posted By Udokabestluv On March 4th, 2025

Newcastle United legend, Alan Shearer, has named Aston Villa as his surprise “favourite” to win the FA Cup ahead of Manchester City.

There are eight teams left in the competition after the fifth round ties.

Manchester City will face Premier League rivals, Bournemouth for a place in the semi-finals.

Fulham host Crystal Palace in the quarters, while Villa travel to Preston North End.

The final quarter-final tie will see Brighton take on Nottingham Forest.

With Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea out, seven-time winners Manchester City have a huge opportunity to finish a miserable season with another FA Cup trophy.

But speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer said: “Aston Villa have got really good attacking options, Unai Emery can swap them around like he has done.

“I would perhaps have Aston Villa as favourites for this competition now. If they can get one or two defenders back from the treatment room, then they will be hard to beat.

“I know it’s away from home but their draw against Preston, they can’t really complain about that. I quite fancy Aston Villa. They could have an unbelievable season, one to really remember.”