Irish stars look to make a splash in Saturday’s FA Cup clashes

This weekend’s 32 ties present opportunities for Irishmen to make their name. Or resurrect their careers. Here’s the pick of Saturday's games which might have a green influence

DEBUT?: Aaron Connolly could make his Hull debut this weekend. Pic: Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile

A burst of Irish Premier League stories at the turn of this year is a novelty worth cherishing but the onset of the FA Cup third round has become the staple of Irish ascendency in recent years.

Be it scalps of established names taken by lower league teams or fringe players availing of the rotation caused by the lull of the lucrative top-flight, the early rounds provide a window to thrive.