Kieran Lee hopes his experience can play a part as he looks forward to another chance to grace the home of English football.
Lee heads to Wembley on Sunday for the second time in outstanding career which has seen the stylish midfielder rack up nearly 450 senior games.
His first taste ended in disappointment with a Championship play-off final defeat with Sheffield Wednesday in 2016.
But having earned the right to return with Wanderers for Sunday’s Papa Johns Trophy final against Plymouth Argyle, the 34-year-old is out to make the most of it and try and help guide Ian Evatt’s side to glory.
“It turned out to be a bad day (last time), so hopefully this time it will turn out to be a lot more positive,” said Lee.
“Obviously at this stage of my career, which is probably coming towards the latter end, I am excited to go there and play.
“I think everybody knows – with all the fans travelling there from both sides – the occasion and what it’s going to be like.
“But I think us more experienced lads can help the younger lads know what to expect.
“It’s not just me. There are a few lads who have been there and been in big situations who will help them out.
“We know it’s going to be a great atmosphere down there and we are looking forward to it. It’s exciting and it’s the same for all the lads who will be playing.”
The know-how of Lee – and fellow thirty-something Cameron Jerome – could be vital on and off the pitch as Wanderers return to Wembley for the first time since 2011 and looking to repeat their win in the same competition in 1989.
For Lee, a winner’s medal would be a second success as a Wanderers’ player after helping Ian Evatt’s side win promotion from League Two a few months after his arrival as an inspired free transfer signing in January, 2021.
The former Manchester United Academy graduate was one of the catalysts for that promotion triumph and the Whites’ subsequent progress up the League One table.
And Lee hopes there’s more to come as Evatt’s side chases cup success in tandem with a play-off push.
“In the last couple of years, the strides that have been made at the club have been massive,” added Lee.
“Obviously, we need to keep that going. We need to try and win this final and win promotion.
“We know we’ve got a long way to go yet but everything is looking up.
“We know Plymouth are a good side. They are top of the league, so it’s going to be a tough game.
“But we are confident in what we have so we will go there hoping, expecting, to win. I am sure they will as well.
“It’s going to be a good game and hopefully we will come out on top.”