Of course, Roberto Martinez is now employed in the Premier League with Wigan Athletic, and it was his side that cruised to a 2-0 victory over Swansea to progress to the quarter finals of the competition.
Both sides made a number of changes to their usual league sides as the fringe players were given a chance to prove themselves.
In particular for the Latics, Victor Moses looked a threat down the wing, whilst it was pleasing to see Gary Caldwell complete 90 minutes as he continues his rehabilitation from injury.
In terms of the game, both sides were playing football with short passes being traded and very few long balls.
Swansea thought they had taken the lead in the first half only for Craig Beattie to be flagged offside as he slotted past Ali Al-Habsi.
However it was ultimately to be the finishing ability of Mauro Boselli that proved hte difference. The Argentine has had a difficult time with the Latics since arriving from Estudiantes in the summer, but this strike will hopefully fill him with confidence.
Boselli took Antolin Alcaraz' pass in his stride before rounding the keeper and slotting home.
Ben Watson completed the scoring with a late penalty after subsitute, Charles N'Zogbia had been brought down in the area.
Here is the reaction of the respective managers.
Roberto Martinez
The support from the fans was magnificent and it was a great night for Wigan Athletic. I was pleased to win the game and even more pleased to keep the clean sheet.
It's a huge, huge achievement. It's not easy to be playing midweek cup games as well as the most demanding league in world football.
But it's a competition that we are not going to take lightly, because we know how important it was for this club to get to the final in the past.
It's always exciting when you see Wigan Athletic in the hat for the next round and we can't wait to see who we will be drawn against. It was a fantastic game of football. I don't think you'll see too many games that are as open as that.
There was a great atmosphere and I was pleased with the way the players handled Swansea City. They were technically and tactically superb, and are going to be a strong side in the Championship this season.
We have a great competition in the squad that is allowing us to be consistent. Our squad strength was probably our biggest worry last season and it is great to see how we are developing and improving.
Gary (Caldwell) looked like he was enjoying his football and already you could see his partnership with Antolin looks to be a solid one.
The understanding looks to be there already and that is important because it is a very important position for us.
Brendan Rodgers
If you see it again, you will see that it shouldn't have been disallowed [Craig Beattie's disallowed goal].
I'm disappointed with the referee's or the linesman's positioning, but that is how it goes. I was very proud of the team. We have come to a Premier League club and shown we can hold our own, if not more than that.
Next up
A trip to Fulham awaits the Latics this weekend who will be hoping to add three points to their Premiership tally on the back of this impressive Carling Cup victory.