Oxford City player-coach Dave Savage is hoping to use his giant-killing experiences as a professional to help them pull off a shock against Burton.

Savage, 36, was in the Millwall team that beat Arsenal and Chelsea in their brilliant Cup run in the 1994-5 season.

“We weren’t given a chance of beating them, but we had a great attitude among the players,” said Savage, who made 95 appearances for Oxford United from 2001-3, scoring five goals.

“Having the right mindset is half the battle. We felt something was achievable at Millwall and it’s the same with City – we are capable of pulling off an upset at Burton.

“Having the right mentality is the most important aspect. We felt something was achievable.

“Being without Liam Malone and Andy Baird (both suspended) is a big blow, but we feel we have enough to cope.

“We’re not just going up there for a day out. We are going up there to try to win.

“You have to have the right attitude and have a bit of luck.

“They are a league side and they have some good players.

“We have worked so hard to get to the first round and we want to enjoy it.

“We came back from the dead against Bury – so we earned it the hard way.

“It is easy to get carried away when you look at the ground and the programme, but you have to put that to the back of your mind.

“It’s 11 v 11 and you have to remember that they were a Conference side last season.

“I have been in their position. You are thinking ‘what if we lose?’ If we show what a good side we are maybe it will affect a few of their players.”

Savage will be up against a Burton side boasting former U’s striker Richard Walker.

“I know Walks very well. We were at Oxford and Bristol Rovers.

“He is a fantastic player. He scores goals and is technically very good, so we know his strenghths. We’re going to watch him very carefully.

“We have had reports from Burton and have got a DVD so we know what to expect.

“I still enjoy playing. I wouln’t do it if the fun went. It’s still challenging. You just have to look after yourself.”

Meanwhile, midfielder Darren Pond, 22, says the game can’t come quickly enough.

It is the biggest game the 22 year-old apprentice electrician has been involved in.

“I don’t think anyone goes into a game thinking they can’t win it. It just depends on who is up for it on the day.

“The play-off win was good, but an FA Cup game is something else.

“I’m not playing too badly, but I haven’t scored as many goals as I would have liked – hopefully Sunday will change that!””

As well as Baird and Malone, City will also be without Steve Davis who is is cup-tied.