Huddersfield’s slice of the Premier League pie; FA Cup Replay at the Etihad

The West Yorkshire side is riding high in the Championship but may be destined for a post-season playoff competition with three more experienced clubs. Huddersfield, however, can get a flavour of the Premier League as they visit the Etihad for an FA Cup Fifth Round Replay.



It wasn't long ago when the terriers were happy to just be in the Championship, a penalty shootout against Sheffield United back in 2012 at Wembley saw them navigate into the second tier. However, the side never finished higher than sixteenth and never looked like threatening the higher echelons of the league.



That was of course until German-American manager got his hands on his first full season with the club. David Wagner brought in key players like Kachunga, Palmer and Mooy on-loan to help bolster the existing squad at the John Smith's stadium. Under his leadership, the team are dreaming of returning the top flight of English football for the first time since 1972, and of course a first appearance in the Premier League.

The problem is that they are locked into a playoff picture with seemingly little movement. The top two sides; Brighton and Newcastle gave their quality probably won't be caught at the top – whilst Norwich or Fulham are both unlikely to catch up with the playoff pack due to the point differential. Meaning that unless so shocking and ever so drastic results come in, Huddersfield will likely be involved in a playoff competition with Leeds United, Reading and Sheffield Wednesday. All of which are vastly more experienced in terms of Premier League football. Whilst Wagner's men are third in the table, playoff football is a totally different beast. It's a true battle of who blinks first; and whether you have enough grit to dig in and get a result. It's often unpredictable and often unplayable games for many players. Given that Huddersfield success is largely built on loaned in players, (with no less than five currently with them) there's, even more, uncertainty added; as it ultimately isn't their future isn't necessarily with the club.

A collection of Aaron Mooy's highlights this season, as compiled by Huddersfield Town. Ironically who is on loan from Manchester City and can't play in the replay. He'll be missed.



Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday have established clubs who many would welcome back into the top tier with open arms due to their stature and wide followings. Reading in the last few years have established themselves as a yo-yo club, often going between the Premier League and Championship. Huddersfield has no such former luxuries, so their mid-week trip to the Etihad will be a real eye-opener for them and their fans.



The game itself will determine who goes to play Middlesbrough at the Riverside in the sixth round, although for Terriers; it'll be much more. A chance to see the team at a proper 55,000+ capacity ground and see whether they can mix it with the big boys of the English game. This will arguably the team's biggest cup tie since they went to Emirates back in 2011. This game, however, they have every right to go and win. Yes, the gulf between the top of the Premier League and the top of the Championship is vast, they've already held hem to a draw. Meaning a spirited performance (or even a result) would stimulate the club and make them believe (as well others) they belong at the top table of English football. This would give that a real advantage going into the playoffs, or give them a lot of drive to challenge the Newcastle and Brighton for the automatic spots.



The game kicks off at 7:45 pm, on Wednesday the 1st of March and will be broadcast live on BBC One.