BBC commentator Mowbray on his love of the FA Cup

BBC lead commentator Guy Mowbray hopes Manchester City's FA Cup quarter-final with Newcastle on Saturday continues what has been a dramatic competition this season.

Mowbray will be the man behind the mic at the Etihad — having already broadcast thrilling ties across the third, fourth and fifth rounds.

And he is excited to get going again as the tournament reaches the last eight.

He told LiveScore: "I've been lucky with live games this season.

"Arsenal vs Liverpool was a cracker in the third round. You always want one of those ties between big clubs to spark things into life.

"And then I did Ipswich vs Maidstone, which to be honest I didn't hold out much hope for in terms of drama. At first they weren't even going to show it until somebody decided we ought to.

"What an occasion that was to see such an incredible upset.

"And then I did Blackburn vs Newcastle on a Wednesday night. That was another cracker."

The third-round clash at the Emirates attracted 7.6 million viewers on BBC One, a figure non-terrestrial channels rarely muster.

Not that Mowbray likes to give that much thought.

He said: "I don't consider it in terms of numbers — until somebody brings it up!

"You speak to your co-commentator and think of it as speaking to one family sitting at home.

"It's not something that enters my head too much."

Cup memories

In an era when its relevance is questioned in some quarters, Mowbray's love for the FA Cup is unceasing.

He said: "The third round weekend is still my favourite of the season.

"Semi-final weekend, the final and the opening day of the season make up my top four. Boxing Day goes fifth.

"It gives me that bit more of a buzz, knowing we're getting closer to the cup final."

And one Sunday afternoon on Mersyside in January 2021 sums up the beauty of the competition.

Mowbray said: "I was at Marine against Tottenham when Jose Mourinho was Spurs boss — it was the biggest difference between teams in terms of league positions ever in the FA Cup.

"They had to build a gantry on top of the stand, a little wooden hut, because there was no facility.

"Tottenham won 5-0 but Jose was magnificent with Marine. He handed over the full file he had on them to help them with future prep.

"They're lovely occasions and do sum up how the FA Cup can bring football together."

Guaranteed story

Full focus is on the Etihad this weekend, though, as City aim to qualify for a record sixth consecutive FA Cup semi-final.

But Mowbray has no preference as to whether he is calling English football history or a surprise win for the Magpies.

He added: "Whichever way you look at it, you're reporting on something amazing.

"City are having their era. They have a lot of money but they've used it magnificently.

"But these things don't go on forever and soon another club will have their day.

"Newcastle knocked them out of the League Cup this season and nearly held them to a draw in January.

"They've got a shot — and wouldn't that be a story?"

Live coverage of Manchester City vs Newcastle will be available on BBC One, BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app from 5.15pm on Saturday.