NEWPORT County AFC will go up against Manchester United ‘machines’ – but boss Graham Coughlan has urged his players to throw a spanner in the works at a pumped-up Rodney Parade.

The Exiles are braced for one of the biggest occasions in their history when they host the Red Devils on Sunday (kick-off 4.30pm) in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

If they win then it would be among the greatest upsets in the competitions rich history and it would be a Rodney Parade event to rival Newport RFC’s famous win against the All Blacks in 1963.

Coughlan is fully aware of the massive task facing his side against United, even if the men from Old Trafford are having a dodgy season by their standards.

South Wales Argus: County boss Graham CoughlanCounty boss Graham Coughlan (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

“We are going up against an elite team, they are machines and they are at that level for a reason,” said the manager.

“It is going to be mightily difficult and a hell of an ask, but we’ve got to show some resolve, stick to the game plan and we can’t carry any passengers.

“We will need the lads to produce one hell of a performance and for United to be slightly off, plus lady luck with a decision or two going our way.”

County are confident thanks to a seven-game unbeaten run, the last three of which were wins against Doncaster, Eastleigh and Wrexham.

However, the boss can’t just ask his players for more of the same given the quality in the away ranks.

“You have to adjust and adapt because of the opposition. We don’t want to go out there and commit suicide by allowing Manchester United lots of the ball, lots of space and lots of chances,” said Coughlan.

“We have to adapt and there will be situations and scenarios that we have to deal with; you would anticipate them having a lot of the ball and chances.

South Wales Argus: CLASS: Manchester United star Bruno FernandesCLASS: Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes (Image: Press Association)“We know that going into the game, but we will get one of two moments and it’s about taking them and being clinical. We have to be at it at the back, in midfield and when the opportunities arise.

“For us to be locking horns with them is an honour but we will want to give a good account of ourselves.

“One thing about this group of lads is that they leave everything on the pitch, give their all and run through brick walls. We’ll need that on Sunday.

“It doesn’t matter what team Erik ten Hag picks, they are elite players and whatever system or shape he used it will be a hell of a challenge and a massive task for our boys.

"It will be really difficult but we will get a moment or two, guaranteed. It's about taking those moments and being clinical."