PAUL Wellens reckons playing at the Etihad Stadium will be very special indeed as a Manchester City season ticket holder!
The full-back was in the crowd as Sergio Agüero smashed home in injury time to give the Blues their first title in 44 years.
And whilst most of Wello’s teammates are bored with him reminding them of events a couple of weeks back – he feels very proud to be leading Saints out on the same field.
“Yes, it will certainly be a special moment,” he said. “It is a great stadium and this season there has been some great days here too and a lot of quality football. I’m hoping it rubs off.
“We played well against Leeds and that spoke volumes for the character in the group. It wasn’t an understrength Leeds team and they weren’t lacking in motivation. We know they are probably a better team than their position in the league too.
“It was a very pleasing performance. James Roby was very good but the forwards laid the platform. Anthony Laffranchi is an unsung hero, Sia Soliola did well, TP, Perry, they all played well.
“Now we have to back that up on Sunday.”
Wellens played for GB against Australia at the then called City of Manchester Stadium in 2004.
He’s also been a part of several ‘Magic Weekend’ successes over the auld enemy.
Despite a defeat up at Murrayfield in 2009, Saints beat Wigan in 2007 and 2008 before overcoming Hull KR in 2010.
And last season the two sides drew 16 all – but the recent Cup defeat sticks in the mind…
“There were a lot of errors in the last game and perhaps the enormity of the occasion got to both teams. We made too many errors and we need to put that right this weekend.
“It will be a great occasion and it is a lot more sensible to hold it in Manchester too – it is better for loyal fans in the heartland. We just need to go there, play well and get the two points.
“We know we are a good side; a quality team with good players and I believe when we get it right we are the best team in the competition.”
