Right. Radical view coming up, and I expect to be slaughtered by some of you.
I know a lot of Alty fans were unhappy when we fielded a weakened team against Stockport last season - but this time we absolutely must do in my opinion. The FA Trophy is, to my mind, third in our pecking order after the FA Cup tie at Portsmouth and the increasing chance of another crack at the playoffs.
Portsmouth is the immediate priority - the financial possibilities for the club are endless. The prospect of an awayday at Mourinho's new employers, or something similar, is mouthwatering. But if we can get Pompey back to Moss Lane, it'll be a dead cert for live TV, and even if it were the end of our run it would generate tremendous financial benefits, as well as putting the club in the public consciousnesses and attracting potential sponsors and investors.
I firmly believe that we cannot afford to lose key players to injury or suspension (Andy White is only one booking away from a ban).
I'd rest Thompson, White, Hannigan, Johnston, and Hulme. Yes, I know Joel Torrance in goal is a massive shout but I believe he's a tremendous prospect, and Densmore, Jones, Mullarkey, and Hampson, bolstered by Moult, are perfectly capable of protecting him.
If we lose at Bootham Crescent the world won't end. If we lose at Fratton Park because key players are missing THAT would be a disaster.