Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate does not believe the Teessiders have been all but gifted a trip to Wembley in the FA Cup this season.Boro are one step away from walking out at the world's most famous stadium as they prepare for Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final against Cardiff.

In every round so far, they have avoided Premier League opposition, arguably giving them an easier ride than their remaining rivals for the trophy.

But manager Southgate said: "I don't think we should apologise for being in the position that we're in.

"We've had draws that have been tough in their own way.

"It doesn't matter what division the team you're playing against is in, they can still provide you with a very tough test.

"We've overcome the hurdles that have been put in front of us; we've got another one that's equally as difficult."

Boro certainly made hard work of dispatching Sheffield United in the previous round, with only a goalkeeping error from Paddy Kenny separating the sides after extra-time of a replay.

Striker Mido insists there is more pressure playing lower-league opponents and warned of the threat Championship Cardiff will pose on Sunday.

"That's always going to put more pressure on us," he said. "We need to respect them. We know they have got some quality players, especially up front. They have got some players who can finish games.

"We're not going to underestimate them and we're going to give them all the respect to get to Wembley."

Both Southgate and Mido are looking forward to a rare full house at The Riverside, with Boro having sold their entire allocation for the game.

Southgate said: "We want to play the type of football that's going to encourage them to come back."

Mido added: "It's great to see the fans are back to watch us and it tells you a lot of things: that the fans are starting to trust us again, which is something I think we lacked at the beginning of the season.

"When we see the stadium is full, we can play a totally different game."

While not exactly dreaming of Wembley glory, Southgate admits the quarter-finals of the cup is when he really begins to feel the magic of the FA Cup.

"It's the time in the competition when everyone does start to get a bit excited," he said. "We've played it down for the majority of the season."

He added: "Stewart Downing and Afonso (Alves) have played at the new Wembley.

"The rest of us haven't been there to play a part in a game and we'd all very much like to do that."

Downing and Alves doubtless will be ready to fill their team-mates in on the Wembley experience should Boro triumph as expected on Sunday.

The Cardiff game should also be an ideal opportunity for the latter to break his goalscoring duck since becoming the club's record signing in January.

But even if Alves fails to find the net, Mido has pleased patience on behalf of his likely strike partner.

The Egypt international said: "I've played in different competitions and I can tell you football here is not only the toughest competition, it's also a very different game to other leagues.

"He needs time to adapt. We can see in training that he's a very good finisher and I think he's a very good signing.

"But I think everyone has to be patient with him because no-one came to England and did well straight away."

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