Under 18s head coach Ben Wilkinson spoke of his pride – and disappointment – in the wake of City’s cruel 2-1 FA Youth Cup semi-final extra time loss at Arsenal.

Reduced to 10 men after the seventh minute dismissal of Lakyle Samuel, City then went behind to a Michal Rosiak free kick.

However, in a display that matched grit and guile, the City youngsters fought back to level 18 minutes from time through Justin Oboavwodou.

The tie then went into extra time but with a penalty shoot out looming Arsenal claimed a dramatic 121st minute winner through Myles Lewis-Skelly.

It was a heartbreaking finale but though desperately disappointed, Wilkinson said he could not be prouder of his players.

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“The sending off so early obviously gave us a massive problem but for us still to be in the game on 120 minutes spoke volumes of the players,” said the City head coach.

“So to lose like that, the players are obviously heartbroken.

“We were outstanding in something we’re not usually used to.

“I’m proud of how we performed and stayed in the game but it is a heartbreaking way to lose. That’s football I guess.”

Play the video to watch Ben’s interview in full...