Wilkinson’s young charges will lock horns with Leeds at the Etihad Stadium, kick-off 19.00pm, with City seeking to lift the famous trophy for the fourth time in our history.
Looking ahead to the match, which is available to watch the FA Player, Wilkinson said there was a keen sense of excitement amongst his squad and staff.
“If we were to win the FA Youth Cup it would be fantastic as it’s seen as the biggest youth competition in this country,” Wilkinson said.
“This is my third year in the role, and we have had some big successes in that time but we hold this this competition in the highest esteem.
“This group has been together a long time since they entered the Academy, and this is a fitting way to finish their journey in some cases and we are really excited for the game.
“To win would mean a lot to them and all the coaches who have worked with these players in many cases over the past 10 or so years.”
City and Leeds are no strangers having met regularly over the past few seasons in the Under-18 Premier League North.
And if past experience is anything to go by, Wilkinson says the fans should be in for a treat.
“In terms of our Under-18s games with Leeds you usually see a lot of goals,” the City head coach pointed out.
“Leeds have a philosophy of being on the front foot and energetic and aggressive and that usually leads to an attractive game of football.”
There has been a big uptake in advance ticket sales for the game with a sizeable contingent from across the Pennines also expected.
And Wilkinson says the prospect of his players appearing in front of a bumper Etihad crowd on Friday will only add to the sense of occasion.
“I know ticket sales have been really positive and I’d encourage as many people as possible to come along,” Ben added.
“The players want to play in front of as many fans as possible and we’ve seen a culture of FA Youth Cup finals getting big crowds in recent years which is great because the players are the future of the game both for Man City and England
“So, it should make for a fantastic night hopefully.”
Play the video to watch Ben’s interview in full…
