Striker looking forward to Everton
New loan signing Lee Barnard is looking forward to making his debut in the FA Cup with Budweiser for Latics against Everton.The striker is relishing the prospect of playing against one of the Barclays Premier League's big guns.
Barnard said: "When you look at Latics beating Liverpool and the tie against Everton, the FA Cup is still magical.
"There is nothing better than a cup game, a one-off, with both teams going for a win. They are also usually entertaining games.
"I have fond memories of the FA Cup and, as a player, it is special."
And Barnard describes the FA Cup as being special for players in the lower divisions.
"It can give you confidence and belief when you have a good game and beat bigger teams.
He continued: "People says the FA Cup is a distraction from the league, but I don't see it that way.
"Players at this level rarely get the chance to test themselves against the best, but the FA Cup gives you that and tomorrow will a special occasion."
Barnard recalls Southend playing Chelsea in the third round in 2009.He said: "We drew 1-1 at Stamford Bridge and then took the lead in the replay at Roots Hall.
"Chelsea equalised just before half time and turned up in the second half and won 4-1."
And he draws comparison with that game and Latics' tie against Everton.
Barnard explained: "We have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
"Don't get me wrong it will be difficult, but we are looking to enjoy the day, work hard and give a good account of ourselves and hopefully make a good game of it."
Barnard added another highlight was playing for Southampton against Manchester United two years ago at St Mary's where Saints lost 2-1.
He had detected a buzz about the club and the town this week in the build up to the match.
Barnard explained: "When I attended the pre-match press conference and saw the FA Cup present it gave me butterflies.
"You know the game is approaching, but when you see the FA Cup and the press, it hits you what a massive match it is. It adds to the excitement."
Barnard was still at Southampton when Latics beat Liverpool, a match he saw on television.
He said: "I had nothing to do with Oldham at the time, but I still wanted them to win as they were the underdogs.
"It was a great game, a great result for Latics and hopefully we can do it again against Everton."