Mark Robins talks Wembley, team selection and the backing of the fans...
City boss Mark Robins has said that it will be a privilege to lead the team out on to the Wembley stage alongside club legend Steve Ogrizovic on the afternoon of April 2nd.
The Sky Blues have won consecutive league ties entering the fixture, while opponents Oxford United enjoyed a thumping 5-1 win over Bury midweek.
Previewing the clash, Robins said: “It is a different week, more focus and attention on the club and the city. And on the players. They have been measured up for new suits, and training has been of a decent level and intensity.
“Off the back of two wins recently, it galvanises all that spirit. We continue to prepare in the way we know how, and go to Wembley to try and enjoy that day. There is only one way to enjoy it, and that is by winning.
“We may be underdogs going in to the game, in terms of our league position. But having said that, this is a one off final and we’ve got tremendous backing. We’ve got to make sure we feed off that and give the fans things to shout and cheer about.”
Having noted the importance of the fans, the Coventry City faithful are travelling in their thousands to the capital city this weekend, with an expected 45,000 Sky Blues on the day.
Putting League One duties aside for the week, the manager added: “Expectation levels are high, we need to take in the sights, the sounds and the experiences and enjoy it. Not let the game pass us by. There should be no fear, age is on their side.
“Small steps going in to the game, a better position going in to it. A real excitement going around the city to follow the club to Wembley, which is fantastic.
“We’ve come out of the league programme and we’re preparing for a league final, and enjoying the build up. There is a lot more interest around the club.
“We’ll look the part, I’m hoping we feel the part and then play the part.”