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Bradford City Boss Parky Relishing Reading Reunion

Reading legend Phil Parkinson has spoken of his delight at drawing Reading in the FA Cup quarter finals.

Paul Gilham/Getty Images

Whilst Bradford City fans will have been hoping for an away game against one of the Premier League's so-called big clubs, Reading fans were dreaming of a reunion with Parky—and their wish was the FA Cup draw's command.

Steve Clarke's men will take on Phil Parkinson's Bantams in March, wary of the momentum the opposition have on their side after the League One side knocked out Premier League side Sunderland in the fifth round.

Former Reading midfield Parkinson is happy with the draw, as he told BBC Leeds:

"It'll be great for myself and my family to be playing Reading. My kids were born there and I've got some great friends down there.

"Once the dressing room door closes we'll be totally focussed on putting in a great performance."

He's confident that his side can be the second League One side in two consecutive years to reach the FA Cup semi finals, after Sheffield United's progress last season, and a home draw improves their chances.

"Any home draw at this stage is a good one and this is a good opportunity for us.

"I don't think we can complain at all and what an occasion it will be.

"The team has got plenty of plaudits for Sunday but so have the supporters and rightly so.

"They are going to be absolutely crucial because, if we can get every seat sold out and get the place bouncing again, that will give us an advantage."

Here's hoping the result is less of a blank than the moments that followed the announcement.