Former King's Lynn boss under no illusions about task facing his Bedford Town side in FA Cup
Bedford Town manager Gary Setchell says he is aware of the 'size of the task' facing his side in Saturday's FA Cup tie against King's Lynn Town.
The much-anticipated cup encounter sees Setchell return to The Walks as a visiting manager for the first time since he was relinquished of his duties back in 2017.
Setchell took charge of his hometown club for a total of 384 matches.
During almost seven years as manager of Lynn he oversaw two promotions, as well as taking the Linnets to the FA Vase semi-finals in 2010/11 and the last 16 of the FA Trophy in 2012/13.
It promises to be an emotional afternoon for the former Lynn boss, who lives literally 15 minutes away from Lynn's home base.
"At least I haven't got to drive home far after the game, that's about where the plusses stop," quipped the no-nonsense boss after Bedford's 3-0 midweek win over Hitchin Town.
"They were a Step 1 outfit last year and are a full-time, professional outfit. They've still got the nucleus of a Step 1 side and they are flying this season, whereas we've still got the nucleus of a Step 4 team.
"The bookies are likely to have us about 10 or 12/1 so that tells you the size of our task with them being at home.
"They've got some wonderful players and a good manager, but we'll go there, have a go and try to express ourselves."
Setchell is anticipating a big four-figure crowd as he brings his newly-promoted Eagles to a ground that became a second home to him as a player and a manager.
"There will be four-figures there on Saturday and I'm really looking forward to it," he admitted.
"I always said when I managed there that there isn't a better place to play when it is is rocking.
"They should be getting bigger crowds than what they actually are, but for whatever reason they're not.
"It'll be a great atmosphere on Saturday. If we can stay in the game for long periods then hopefully they will turn on them a bit.
"And it does get tough when they do. I've been four or five nil down at some point, but if they score early they will probably put us to the sword."
Saturday will be the 63rd meeting of the Linnets and the Eagles in all competitions.
