FOREST line up against Derby tomorrow night in the knowledge that victory will mean more than local bragging rights.

It will result in a fifth round showdown against the current Premiership, European and world champions Manchester United.

One player whose emotions might be different to the rest are those of right back Brendan Moloney.

Earlier this season the Irishman was out on loan at Rushden and Diamonds, his first-team chance appearing miles away.

But in late November he was dramatically recalled, swapping the Blue Square Premier for his Championship bow.

Since then he has been in and around the first team but after playing for Rushden in the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup, he is now cup tied for that competition.

So, when Forest line up for another potentially electrifying clash with the Rams tomorrow night, Moloney will again have to take a back seat.

And if they emerge victorious, he will have to face the reality of having no chance of facing his boyhood heroes.

But such is the professionalism and maturity of the man from Kerry, that he is refusing to feel sorry for himself.

Instead, he is planning to cheer his teammates on to a win against Derby before preparing to rub shoulders behind the scenes with the likes of Ronaldo and Rooney.

Asked about being cup tied, Moloney said: "Obviously that is disappointing.

"There have been a few massive games already in the FA Cup but I wish all the lads the best of luck.

"They have done brilliantly, beating Manchester City and drawing with Derby.

"Now we have Derby again and I hope we will win that because then there is an absolutely brilliant game against Manchester United at the City Ground.

"That would be brilliant but I will not be envious.

"I have supported Manchester United since I was about four or five so I would love the chance but I will be delighted for the lads to get that opportunity."

And Moloney joked: "I can bring it [his autograph book] down to try to get a few autographs or maybe a jersey or two."

Instead of dwelling on missing out on FA Cup action this season, Moloney is keen to focus on the positive achievement of breaking into the first team at the end of last year.

And he explained how he now intends to stay there under Forest's new manager Billy Davies.

"I came back from Rushden and I was straight into the team," he recalled.

"Since then I have been in or thereabouts in the squad and that is what you want.

"That is like the under-18s in the FA Youth Cup, their overall aim to make the senior squad.

"That was my aim and I am just delighted to be in and around it, training with the first team and showing them what I can do.

"Everyone is great in the squad, the coaching staff and the manager and it is good to see that confidence is so high.

"When I got my chance before, all the senior players in the team helped me along really well.

"Now, when another start comes along, I will relish it and look to take it again."