To their credit, Tuchel's players produced a professional performance to ensure this season's FA Cup campaign was not derailed in the immediate aftermath of Abramovich's announcement. They had won seven straight games heading into this one, with victory ensuring their record of not having lost at home in the FA Cup in more than four years continues. Middlesbrough last reached the FA Cup final 25 years ago, and are now potentially 180 minutes from returning there. After what should have been a joyous moment for the Eagles as they reached the last eight of the FA Cup, Vieira's honesty is to be admired - but his criticism was calculated. But if they want to keep that run going, and potentially reach Wembley in the FA Cup, then some serious improvement will be needed - so it is just as well Vieira has publicly acknowledged this.

Source: Sky sports March 03, 2022 04:46 UTC