Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has echoed his manager's belief that the FA Cup is still a "special" competition ahead of today's final.
Gerrard, 31, has already experienced FA Cup success with Liverpool, in 2001 and 2006, and is keen to replicate the memories that he regards as some of his fondest in football.
"The FA Cup is special, and not just for us English guys. All the foreign lads are sat there in the dressing room saying they can't wait for it. It just goes to show how big this competition is worldwide," said the England international.
"Some of the biggest experiences myself and Jamie Carragher have had over the years have been winning cups. They are nights when you are successful you look back on with fond memories.
"The FA Cup is special altogether but we got a taste of success winning the Carling Cup and that will help some of the younger players in the squad and everyone really because winning breeds confidence."
Gerrard is set to lead his side out in a domestic cup final at Wembley for the second time in just three months, having already helped them to Carling Cup success this season.
Barney Corkhill
