Aaron McGowan: We all know what’s up for grabs in the FA Cup

Morecambe head to League 2 rivals Dagenham & Redbridge on Saturday in the first round knowing they are two wins from being in the hat with the Premier League big boys.

The full back said: “It’s the biggest domestic cup.

“A couple of wins and the Premier League teams will come in and at our level that’s what we dream of, a big away game at big stadiums.

“You don’t need any more motivation to win to be honest.

“We’re up for it and we’re ready.”

The draw could have paired Jim Bentley’s men with anyone but sends them to a Daggers side they know well.

After becoming more than acquianted with one another in the Conference they were promoted together in 2007.

A quirk of the fixtures also means the sides will meet in the league at the Globe Arena next weekend.

McGowan said: “I think it’s a good draw for us.

“It’s just a bit mad the way we’ve got them in our next league game.

“I’m really confident going into the game that we’ve got more than enough to cope with what they’ve got and I’m excited for it.”

The Shrimps go into the game looking to bounce back from defeats against two of League 2’s big-hitters, Leyton Orient and Plymouth.

McGowan said: “We had won four on the run and didn’t deserve to lose against Leyton Orient.

“I think Plymouth are a very good team to be honest. I can’t see many going to Home Park and getting points this year.

“From what I’ve seen I think they’re the best team in this league and will go up as champions.

“We can’t be too down, we’ve just got to keep our morale high.”

On a personal note McGowan is enjoying a sustatined run in The Shrimps side having impressed since deputising for Laurence Wilson at left back.

The promising full back, who has started the last six, said: “All young lads at any level want is a chance.

“It’s obviously nice that the gaffer’s put a bit of faith in me.

“I appreciate it and long may it continue, I feel like I’ve been doing okay.

“I’m not the complete package but I’ll try my best day in, day out, to improve and get to where I want to be.”