Blake is looking to Layer old ghosts to rest at Chesterfield

Former Brakes Mykel Beckley, Rich Morris, Chris Murphy, Ryan Howell and Josh Blake are all expected to face the Spireites, while Guy Sanders may win a place on the bench as he comes back from a knee injury. Leamington-born Tom James is cup-tied.

Ninety-two places lie between the League Two outfit and Town, who play in the Southern League Division One Central and, for a trio of ex-Leamington players, it offers an unexpected shot at redemption following a chastening experience at Layer Road in 2005.

“Me, Rich Morris and Ryan Howell were together for the first round before,” said Blake of the 9-1 thrashing at the hands of Colchester United. “It’s great for the three of us to get another chance. Hopefully it won’t be that bad.”

Blake has had to keep his excitement under wraps since the draw was made, however, with a one-match suspension hanging over him.

The ban ruled him out of the midweek FA Trophy game against Wingate & Finchley, but had the match fallen victim to the recent wet spell it would have carried over to the FA Cup tie.

“I’m absolutely buzzing as it gets closer,” he said.

“It was a strange one with the suspension and I wasn’t officially able to celebrate until the Trophy game was out of the way.”

Despite missing the 3-1 Trophy win, Blake is confident of regaining his place in the Purple Army’s defence for the trip to the Proact Stadium.

And, with his side having only lost twice in all competitions this season, the 32-year-old sees no reason why the FA Cup adventure - currently spanning five games - cannot continue.

“I started the season up front, but the manager knew I can play left-back and I’ve played most of the season there and played well.

“We don’t know the team yet for Saturday but I’d be very disappointed if I wasn’t starting.

“I’m really looking forward to it and feeling fit and you never know, we might be able to get a draw and bring them back to our place.”