Goalscoring legend Kevin Phillips says his South Shields side are fully prepared for their FA Cup clash with Workington Reds this weekend.

Danny Grainger’s men face a tough trip to take on Phillips’ Northern Premier League Premier Division side.

The first qualifying round tie is a first FA Cup game in charge for former Sunderland favourite Phillips.

And the ex-striker says he has left nothing to chance in terms of scrutinising Grainger’s Reds.

“We’re expecting a difficult match against Workington but we feel well-prepared, because we’ve had them watched and have had a match report on them,” Phillips told the club website.

News and Star: Danny Grainger's side are hoping for a cup boost after a poor league start (photo: Barbara Abbott)Danny Grainger's side are hoping for a cup boost after a poor league start (photo: Barbara Abbott)

“They’ll try to make life difficult for us, but we have to be positive about what we do as our record at home has been very positive.

“This is my first experience of the FA Cup as a manager, although I have fond memories of it from my years as a player.

“We’re all very excited, because it’s a special competition and our ambition is to go as far in it as we possibly can.”

Workington go into Saturday's game at 1st Cloud Arena hoping for a boost after a disappointing start to their NPL West league campaign.

Grainger’s side have won one, drawn one and lost three so far.

Reds, who reached this stage thanks to a 7-0 win at West Allotment Celtic in the preliminary round, can secure £2,250 prize money with victory.

Former Carlisle United men Lewis Alessandra and Gary Liddle and ex-Blues youth defender Dillon Morse are among the home side's players.