I think the FA Cup remains important because of the Cinderella moment. Yes, the Big 4 have turned their attention to Europe,and they should given the sums to be won there, but for all of the other fans and clubs in England, i.e., the vast majority, the Cup remains something special.

At any rate, the bigger clubs rediscover the joy of the competition as the final looms. Indeed, one could argue that he bigger clubs playing weakened sides is not a sign of disrespect for the competition but rather a function of their depth and good managing by the respective gaffers.