The reigning FA Youth Cup holders, City have made a hugely impressive fist of things so far in our defence of the trophy this season.
After a hard fought 1-0 third round win over Crystal Palace, the City youngsters have subsequently chalked up convincing victories at home to Millwall (5-1) and away successes at Leeds (6-1) and West Brom (6-0).
Now comes the challenge of an eagerly anticipated semi-final at Vicarage Road with a place in the final away to Aston Villa the prize for the victors.
And for Reiss, Thursday’s clash is another priceless opportunity for the City youngsters to prove themselves under the most intense pressure and scrutiny.
“I’m very thankful - and the players should also be thankful - for opportunities like this to prove to themselves and to show everyone how good they are in pressure situations like this,” said Reiss.
“When the pressure is like this and a lot of people are looking at these games, then this is the kind of pressure that is good for the players’ development so it’s very important for them and also for me.
“Are you able to bring your talent and your quality in different and special pressure situations on the pitch?
“So, we are very excited about the game and looking forward to it and everyone around us is a little bit more excited too. So many more people are coming up to me and saying ‘Good luck on Thursday.’”
Play the video to watch Reiss’s interview in full…
