It's almost 55 years since Rovers entertained Manchester City at Belle Vue, and that was a memorable meeting in the old Division Two. A first half hat-trick from City's Smith, and second half goals from Harrison, Lawler and two from Doherty gave Rovers a 4-3 win.
But I think it's safe to say that Man City's strike force has improved greatly since then. The best place to start would be the most experienced 'danger man' - Who else but Andrew Cole.
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Andy began his career as an Arsenal trainee and spent a loan spell at Fulham and a year at Bristol City scoring 20 goals in 41 league appearances. It was the prolific form whilst at Newcastle United that got him the golden boot, and the PFA Young Player Of The Year in 1994; He finished off with 55 goals in 69 appearances before a £6M move in January of 1995 to Old Trafford.
The biggest moment of his life would probably be winning the Premiership, FA Cup and the Champions League in the 98/99 season.
Three years at Blackburn Rovers and a year at Fulham now see's him at the 'blue side' of Manchester scoring two goals in the first four matches of the season and only a 'Fantastic' save by former Fulham team mate Edwin Van Der Sar denied him bagging the winner against his former employers.
In 15 years he has become the second highest goal-scorer in Premiership history (below Alan Shearer, above team mate Robbie Fowler).
One player who might get a chance to prove himself in this cup clash could be Bradley Wright-Phillips.
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Interestingly, Bradley made his senior debut in the Carling Cup against Barnsley as a substitute, he also played in the defeat to Arsenal in the cup.
He has played in pre-season and scored twice as a substitute against Olympiacos.
 Musampa's Profile |
Kizito 'Kiki' Musampa made a Premiership impact and a half when he scored the winner against Liverpool at the City Of Manchester Stadium, which also handed Stuart Pearce his first victory in charge.
Currently on-loan from Athletico Madrid, the Dutch winger has come in with Steve McManaman leaving the club with one injury after another.
All in all, a game with tasty prospect, can we be giant killers, or just plain killed? Only Wednesday will give us the answer.
Ian Street's Score prediction, Rovers 1-2 Man City.
David 'The Optomist' Shanks' Score prediction, Rovers 2-1 Man City.