Wigan are still in the bottom three of the Premier League after they netted a last-minute equaliser against Queens Park Rangers last weekend, while Millwall haven't won in their last three league games in the second tier, currently floating five points above the drop zone. That means this FA Cup semi-final is an unusual reason for excitement for the fans, with both teams having defied the odds to reach this stage.
Millwall vs. Wigan Athletic, 2013 FA Cup: Preview and TV schedule
The FA Cup provides some respite from the hardships of the league for these two sides, with Millwall and Wigan struggling in their respective divisions.
Paul Thomas
This is the furthest Wigan have ever gone in the FA Cup, while Millwall will be looking to repeat their feat of 2003, when they reached their first ever final -- only to be comfortably beaten by Manchester United. Given that Chelsea and Manchester City are playing in the other semi-final, the same would probably happen again -- though these teams will just want to concentrate on getting there first.
The Lions' manager Kenny Jackett will be unable to select captain Paul Robinson and Richard Chaplow, who are both expected to miss the remainder of the season through injury, while Karleigh Osborne is in doubt after he sustained a hamstring strain three weeks ago. On-loan striker Jermaine Easter is cup-tied.
Wigan have a few long-term injuries, with Mike Pollitt, Iván Ramis, Albert Crusat and Ben Watson all unavailable, though Roberto Martínez's side will still be strong favourites to take victory on Saturday.
Millwall injuries and suspensions
Out: Paul Robinson (groin), Richard Chaplow (ankle), Jermaine Easter (cup-tied) In doubt: Karleigh Osborne (hamstring)
Wigan Athletic injuries and suspensions
Out: Mike Pollitt (thigh), Iván Ramis (knee), Albert Crusat (knee), Ben Watson (broken leg)
Match Date\Time: Saturday, 5:15 p.m. local, 12:15 p.m. ET
Venue: Wembley Stadium, London, England
TV: Fox Soccer Plus (U.S.), ESPN UK / HD (U.K.)
Online: Fox Soccer 2Go (U.S.)
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