Pochettino’s aspect are 11 factors adrift of fifth place within the Premier League and face an uphill battle to qualify for subsequent season’s Champions League or Europa League.
After a troubled first half of the season, Chelsea’s boss is aware of the FA Cup might present some much-needed solace for Chelsea.
Forward of Championship staff Preston’s go to to Stamford Bridge, the Argentine acknowledged FA Cup glory in Could would earn them a spot within the Europa League.
They may even be seeking to safe a back-up spot within the Europa Convention League by successful the League Cup.
Pochettino’s aspect face Middlesbrough within the League Cup semi-final over two legs starting on Tuesday, with the second leg set for January 23.
“In fact (we are able to win the FA Cup),” Pochettino mentioned on Friday. “The Carabao (League) Cup and the FA Cup are competitions we have to attempt to go far in.
“However we have to construct our run step-by-step and step one is Saturday. It’s a very vital competitors for us, as a result of we aren’t in Europe.
“Within the Premier League, we’re able the place we have to develop and enhance lots if we wish to be in Europe subsequent season. By way of the FA Cup or League Cup we are able to obtain that.”
With a protracted FA Cup run in thoughts, Pochettino confirmed there won’t be wholesale adjustments from the Chelsea staff that received 3-2 at Luton of their final Premier League recreation.
He hinted at a potential begin for striker Armando Broja, with Christopher Nkunku solely match sufficient for the bench and Senegal’s Nicolas Jackson having departed for the Africa Cup of Nations.
“We’re going to deal with it like a Premier League recreation. Simply because it’s the FA Cup and it’s a Championship staff, we’re going to respect Preston.
“Broja goes to be a chance to play. However Nkunku isn’t going to start out. He suffered some points through the week,” he mentioned.
AFP