Source: Liverpool_Echo
Liverpool FC FA Cup hero Michael Thomas urges Reds to Wembley glory
Michael Thomas 300[LNB]UP AND down the country tomorrow Premier League managers will ring the changes. Key players will be given the weekend off and rookies handed a chance to shine.[LNB]The FA Cup is now viewed by many as an unwelcome distraction from the riches on offer in the top flight.[LNB]An early exit will be greeted by a casual shrug of the shoulders amid talk of how they don't have the strength in depth to compete on both fronts.[LNB]However, one former Wembley winner is hoping the oldest club cup competition in the world has leapt up Rafa Benitez's list of priorities.[LNB]With their Champions League and title dreams in tatters, Michael Thomas believes the[LNB]FA Cup now represents Liverpool's best chance of securing a first trophy since that unforgettable final against West Ham in 2006.[LNB]All the talk ahead of tomorrow's third round clash at Championship strugglers Reading has been about the race for fourth place, but Thomas insists silverware should still be the major goal.[LNB]'The FA Cup is very special and when Premier League teams put out weakened teams I think it's a disgrace,' he said.[LNB]'It's a very prestigious competition watched by people across the world and it should be treated with respect.[LNB]'These days it's all about the Champions League. If you want to get in that because you think you've got a genuine chance of winning it then fair enough, but when your sole target is qualifying just for the money that's very sad.[LNB]'Nobody gets remembered for finishing fourth. At the end of your career you might be rich but you make your mark on the game by winning trophies.[LNB]'Medals are what every player wants and the FA Cup would do nicely for Liverpool this season.'[LNB]Maximum points against Wolves and Aston Villa over Christmas have lifted spirits at Anfield and breathed new life into their Champions League qualification hopes.[LNB]Thomas, who scored 12 goals in 163 appearances for the Reds between 1991 and 1998 and who has since made Merseyside his home, believes it's crucial that momentum is maintained at the Madejski Stadium.
