As they head towards the biggest game of their repspective histories, the Cities of Hull and Bristol travel to Wembley with fully fit squads and an excited army of fans.
Hull manager Phil Brown is expected to name an unchanged side from the one that beat Watford so emphatically over two legs, but the return of midfielder Dean Marney could give Brown a selection dilemma.
Bristol City manager Gary Johnson has not had any injury problems, but is fully aware of how injuries can strike at any moment:
We have worked hard in training. You cross your fingers and cringe sometimes when you see some big tackle going in but it has got to be that way because you have still got to train properly. At the moment everyone is fit and looking forward to being selected in the 16
A win would cap remarkable turnarounds for both clubs. Hull City, who were lucky to keep their Football League status and locked out of their ground just 9 years ago. Bristol City’s recent history is brighter, as they look to secure a successive promotion after emerging from League One in 2007.
Both teams were not tipped for great heights this season, with Bristol City expected to be more fourth from bottom than fourth overall. Yet both clubs played great football and have ambitious plans. Although the outlook from the press and pundits were grim, they have earned their shot at the big time. As Hull chairman Phil Duffen explains:
We have probably overachieved as far as most people outside the club are concerned, but it’s something we have been planning for the last year.
It will be a big day for everybody and a great day for the travelling fans. Both teams have earned the opportunity at Wembley after finishing third and fourth.
The pundits have all said the game will be tight, with Bristol City having the edge results wise, winning 2-1 at Ashton Gate and holding for a 0-0 at the KC Stadium, yet Hull finished a point above the Robins the clinched third place. Whoever the favourite, the game promises to be a massive occasion for both teams as they and 80,000 fans look to seal the reported £60 million place in the Premiership.