New Mansfield Town boss Nigel Clough has urged his players to 'have a go' when they face Sunderland in this weekend's FA Cup first-round clash.
The Black Cats host the Stags at the Stadium of Light with a place in the second round of the competition on offer, in a game which will be decided on the day.
Clough has not had much time to work with his new players, and will leave the matchday duties to caretaker boss Richard Cooper.
But he has sent a message to his Mansfield squad, urging the League Two players to rise to the occasion of playing at the Stadium of Light.
"We're hoping to be there, but Richard Cooper has done excellently with the lads so he will take the game," Clough said of the FA Cup tie at Sunderland.
“We'll pop our heads in and wish them good luck. My message to the players is just have a go. Don't sit back - let's go and have a go.
“The opportunity to play at the Stadium of Light - one of the best stadiums in the country - is a wonderful one. So let's go and enjoy it."
Sunderland head into the game with a largely clean bill of health, although striker Benji Kimpioka, who could have been involved, has been ruled out for three to four months.
