'We're looking forward to seeing JC'
Mansfield fan Mark Holmes provides the view from the opposition ahead of a big day for the Nottinghamshire club.
What was your first thought when you were drawn against Liverpool?
I really couldn't believe it, obviously I was sat hoping for a big club to be drawn, but you never expect it to actually happen. The lads in the flats below me heard me celebrating when it did, which says it all really.
What is the mood among the fans now?
Quite strange. Obviously everyone in Mansfield is excited about Liverpool coming to town, and really looking forward to a packed Field Mill (or should I say One Call Stadium?). However, a fair portion of the fans are a little disgruntled with our inconsistency and less-than-attractive style of play at the moment. Hopefully a decent showing Sunday along with the convincing win on New Year's Day will help put that behind us.
You have a chance of a giant-killing because...
Our pitch is hardly a bowling green, and that might disrupt your passing game. Also, if nothing else, our boys should be up for a good battle, and with the 12th Stag behind them, you never know what can happen.
If you were manager, what would you say to the players before they left the dressing room?
Do it for those fans out there that camped out to make sure they got tickets, the fans that have travelled up and down the country following you, and do it for yourselves. If nothing else, get stuck in.
Who makes Mansfield tick?
Our player/assistant manager Adam Murray has the ability to dictate the play and to put in the big challenges to set the tempo for the rest of the players. Chris Clements, on his day, can keep the ball moving nicely too.
Who are you most looking forward to getting a glimpse of at Field Mill?
Well the likes of Suarez and Gerrard obviously spring to mind, but it's probably safe to say they'll be rested for 'tougher' games in the coming weeks. It'll be good to see Carragher playing as he's been a great player over the years.
Best and worst thing about a trip to your place?
I imagine the worst for your travelling fans might be the stadium (considering the footballing arenas you've become accustomed to over the years), despite having one of the more impressive grounds outside the Football League. The best thing, I've been told before, is leaving. But I like to think that when the Quarry Lane End is in full voice, and the Stags are giving it their all on the pitch, the opposing fans appreciate they're in for a good old-fashioned game of football.
Best and worst thing about being a Mansfield fan?
Starting with the worst - it would have to be coping with the disappointments, and seeing our status as a league club slip away. We seem to have bad luck follow us around here at Mansfield. However, since Mr Radford took over, there is a lot more optimism about the club. The best thing, I suppose, is that due to the above, when things go well it's that much sweeter. There's nothing better than seeing the team representing your town do well.
Prediction?
My head says 4-0 to Liverpool, my heart says 1-1 (giving us a nice day out at Anfield too). Sadly, I probably trust my head more.