Norwich City Women in FA Cup action at Nest against Sutton Coldfield

The women return to The Nest (2pm kick-off) and Howes says preparation - which has included some rest time - ahead of the cup tie has been good.

"Training's been okay, we gave the players a few days off," he told the club's official website.

"We've had a few niggles and a few tired players with fatigue, so we thought a rest might be good. We're asking for high intensity, so it's good to have a rest, and that they come back feeling refreshed and ready to go for Sunday.

"It's always good playing against different opposition, and it obviously comes with a different challenge as we don't know as much about those teams. This'll be no different, and we'll prepare with the things we can do well. Then hopefully that's enough to get us through to the next round."

Howes's squad have no new injury concerns.

"No injury concerns, other than the long-term ones we already have," he added. "Becca Russell is still out, Millie Daviss is still out. Anna Larkins is back and in contention, but other than that, the few niggles have gone and everyone will be fresh and ready to go."

As well as their second round cup slot, Cuity are second in their league and Howes is happy at this season's progress.

"The season has gone well so far," he said. "I think we've met our expectations and probably achieved more than we expected. We knew we had a really good squad, we knew we were going to be a good team this season. I did think it would take the team a little bit longer to gel, especially with the new players we brought in. They've exceeded all expectations.

"All the summer signings have fitted in really well. We knew some were going to straight in and into the first-team and playing every week, and we know some were going to be for the future. We've got some players who are showing really good potential, and they'll keep working hard. It's all about making it competitive and making it so everyone's pushing for a place."