Macclesfield, the National League North side that stunned holders Crystal Palace in the third round, will host Premier League Brentford in the FA Cup fourth round. The tie, scheduled for February, gives the minnows a chance to claim another top-flight scalp.
The draw produced several enticing matchups, including Chelsea's Liam Rosenior returning to his former club Hull City, and Aston Villa hosting Newcastle United in an all-Premier League clash. Seven top-tier clubs will travel to lower-league opposition.
Macclesfield manager John Rooney admitted he had hoped for a bigger name but was content. “We said before that we would have liked to get Liverpool, Chelsea or Arsenal, but another Premier League side is incredible,” he said. He added that he had not seen his players since their victory over Palace.
Other notable ties include West Ham visiting Burton Albion, Wolves travelling to Grimsby—who have already beaten Manchester United in the Carabao Cup—and Leeds United facing Birmingham City at St Andrew’s. Salford City could meet Manchester City if they overcome Swindon in a rearranged third-round game.
Wrexham and Ipswich, both in-form Championship sides, will meet at the Racecourse Ground in a tie with Hollywood interest, as Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds and Ipswich fan Ed Sheeran might attend. If Liverpool beat Barnsley, they will face Brighton at Anfield in the fourth round.
