Ask most managers who they want ahead of a cup draw and they will reply “anyone at home”.

Russell Slade is no different in normal circumstances but both his recent experiences in knockout competitions and the current form of his Albion team are far from normal.

It was no surprise to Slade when England and Lancashire’s James Anderson pulled out ball No. 7 for an away tie in the first round of the FA Cup.

It is the eighth time out of nine that has happened for the former Yeovil and Grimsby boss in the trio of domestic knockout events.

Nobody will be bowled over either by a visit to fellow League One strugglers for Slade’s Seagulls a week on Saturday but it could be a blessing in disguise.

Withdean has not exactly been a fortress this season. Last Saturday’s defeat by Oldham was the fifth out of seven at home.

Wycombe may have been one of the only two exceptions, a Nicky Forster goal in September helping to hasten the departure as manager of Peter Taylor, but that would not have made a visit from Gary Waddock’s toilers any more attractive.

A low turnout would have been guaranteed following successive home games, especially with season ticket holders having to pay.

Uninspiring though it may seem, an FA Cup trip to Wycombe could just be a route to improvement and riches.

It is a winnable tie. Wanderers are in worse form than Albion and Slade’s side have been beaten only once in their last five away league games.

It also offers the opportunity of a morale boost ahead of clashes against the ‘big four’, Southampton, Leeds, Norwich and Charlton.

The league is the priority and the FA Cup has lost some of its lustre but a positive result could still be a turning point for Slade, who steered Scarborough when they were in the Conference to a glamour tie against Chelsea.

Albion have already lost at the first time of asking in both the Carling Cup and Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

An FA Cup run would be a welcome distraction from their league troubles and lucrative to boot. Victory over Wycombe alone is worth £18,000.

That is comparatively small beer, especially now that the wealthy Tony Bloom is chairman.

The next game at home to Hartlepool on Saturday is more important but the significance of the game after it should not be under-estimated.