DAVID Moyes is playing his cards close to his chest for the FA Cup tie against Oldham this weekend.

But one thing is for sure - Michael Appleton will not take part in the tie because of a suspension he earned playing for North End's reserves.

Appo was red-carded in the reserves' match against Birmingham and will miss the clash along with injured Lee Cartwright and Paul McKenna.

But one man who has stated his case for selection emphatically is Bjarki Gunnlaugsson.

North End's hat-trick hero against Wrexham believes that the Whites are no weaker with him in the side, and he is anxiously waiting to see who is in the starting line-up against Oldham.

Gunnlaugsson scored his first hat-trick since he was a child in only his second start for North End in a display which manager David Moyes must take note of.

The 26-year-old said: "It was a great feeling and it was good to get the first goal of the match, thanks to a great ball from Alex (Mathie).

"I just want the gaffer to know that I am available and it wouldn't make the team any weaker if I was in it.

"Every player wants to play and I know I'm no exception, It's the gaffer who picks the team and if I'm on the bench for the Oldham clash, I'm happy with that - I understand we have to have a big squad because we have a lot of games."

And the Iceman paid tribute to North End's fans, adding: "The fans have been great supporting the team both home and away this season."

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