Pearson Expects Terriers Response

The Foxes have already beaten the Terriers twice in the league this term, producing two of their best performances of the campaign in the process.

Anthony Knockaert scored twice in a 2-0 win at the John Smith’s Stadium in October, before Chris Wood’s double set off a 6-1 romp at King Power Stadium on New Year’s Day.

But Pearson is expecting a reaction from the Terriers, who head into Saturday’s fourth round tie in West Yorkshire just two days after parting company with manager Simon Grayson.

“We have played them twice already this season and we will have to put on a professional performance because they will want a response,” Pearson said ahead of Saturday’s game.

“Both sides will be aware of each other’s strengths and weaknesses but, in cup competitions, on any given day, strange things can happen. You’ve got to be mentally prepared for the game, but also go out and make sure you perform.

“We’ll have a good following behind us again and hopefully we can progress to the next round.

“It will be a different game to the last time we played them in that they will be more positive at home and they will want to put on a good show. We’ve got to be right for it.”

Coming into the game on the back of a run of five straight wins, Pearson’s side should have every reason to be confident ahead of their journey north.

And the Foxes boss is keen to see their impressive recent sequence maintained, regardless of what competition they are playing in.

“It’s a good opportunity for us to maintain a run of form,” he said.

“We want to progress in this competition. I think we’ve played pretty well of late, performances have been good and confidence within the squad is high. 

“With the cup competitions, you just have to enjoy the experience. Good runs come from you enjoying your football and doing an efficient job.

“We’ve got to make sure we approach it professionally and negotiate what is a tricky tie. 

“We’re in a decent run of form and the players know that if they’re in the side, then the onus is on them to stay there.”

Without a league win in 12, the Terriers may seek some solace in the FA Cup as they bid to reignite their season while searching for a new manager.

“They’ve had a difficult run of late, but when we played them up at their place it was one of our better performances of the season in difficult conditions,” Pearson said.

“That gives you an illustration of how difficult it is for sides in the Championship, but on the back of getting promotion I am sure they will turn things around.

“Clearly, on Saturday, it’s about us getting the performance right first and foremost.”