Chelsea have been drawn against Port Vale in the FA Cup quarter-finals at Stamford Bridge, and are heavy favourites to set up another trip to Wembley this season.
It has been nearly a century since Chelsea last faced this opposition, and they will feel like they have been very lucky to avoid any of Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool at this stage of the competition.
The Blues have got to this stage of the competition beating three Championship sides, most recently needing extra-time goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Joao Pedro to get past Wrexham.
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Chelsea player ratings vs Wrexham with Joao Pedro clapping the fans
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Who are Chelsea’s FA Cup quarter-final opponents, Port Vale?
Port Vale currently sit bottom of League One, although have numerous games in hands on their rivals due to an excellent cup run so far.
Their time in this year’s competition started in November, and they have won four games already to set up a trip to Stamford Bridge.
Port Vale v Sunderland - Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round
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They beat Sunderland at home in the fifth round at the weekend, a side who Chelsea failed to beat earlier in the season in the Premier League.
There have been just 14 meetings between the two clubs in history, with the latest coming in 1929. The Blues have a positive record throughout time, although won’t take much confidence purely from that.
When looking at Port Vale’s squad, Premier League fans will recognise a number of names, as well as some promising youngsters who are currently on loan at the club.
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Chelsea wingers Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto
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Port Vale have Premier League pedigree in their side
Ben Amos will be in goal opposite either Robert Sanchez or Filip Jorgensen. The 35-year-old has a Premier League appearance for Manchester United under his belt.
Experienced striker Andre Gray is in the side. He will be looking to add to his six appearances against the Blues in his career, although is still looking for his first goal.
Everton have a couple of loanees at the club, meaning they will likely be taking a greater interest on the cup tie than most.
Martin Sherif and Elijah Campbell are currently in the Port Vale squad, and will be amongst all the players looking at their own shot at making history when the two sides meet, with a place at Wembley on the line.
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