It’s a situation U’s enjoyed five years ago, when a dramatic victory over Cheltenham at this stage set the club on a momentous FA Cup journey, but this is Sutton’s first appearance in the second round since then, while Saturday’s opponents Bristol Rovers have appeared in the third round in each of the past two seasons and ran then Premier League Sheffield United close last season before losing 3-2.

At half time in extra time of their first round replay against Oxford United, the second round seemed a long way away for Rovers but a stunning burst of three goals in eight minutes in the second period of extra time turned the tie around and set up Saturday’s tie at the Memorial Stadium, once the home of Bristol Rugby Club but since 1996 also Rovers’ home ground, with the rugby club moving to Bristol City’s Ashton Gate in 2014.

Rovers are currently in 16th place in League Two, nine points behind U’s, having won four and lost four of their home games this season. Last week’s defeat at leaders Forest Green ended a run of four games unbeaten, and they also lost the services of midfielder Josh Grant with a hamstring injury, although Sam Nicholson is likely to return after missing the game at Forest Green, and U’s will have to keep an eye on one of the EFL’s most regular scorers in recent years in striker Brett Pitman, who was signed in the summer having leaft Swindon.

Sutton had injury issues on Tuesday during the Papa John’s Trophy game against Stevenage and manager Matt Gray will wait to see who is fit before naming his side, with Louis John  set to make his 200th appearance for Sutton if he overcomes the knock that forced him off in the second half on Tuesday. 

Referee is Darren Drysdale, who was in charge of Sutton’s 2-1 home defeat to Oldham in August, and any replay is scheduled for Tuesday 14 December, subject to TV requirements.

Anyone that hasn’t yet bought a ticket for the game can do so at the Memorial Stadium on Saturday from the away ticket booth. Card and cash payments are accepted

Prices are: Seating (south stand) Adults £16; Seniors (65+): £8; Under 16 £2

Terrace (uncovered) Adults £11; Seniors £6; Under 16 £2

Full travel details on how to get to the game are here, with drivers reminded that the M4 is scheduled to be closed between Slough and Maidenhead all weekend.

By the time the game kicks off U’s will know their Papa John’s Trophy opponents, with the draw being made live on Sky following the lunchtime Championship game between Coventry and West Brom.

There is commentary on the IFollow system on the game, and passes, price £2.50, can be bought here.