Anthony Wordsworth has special memories of playing in the EFL Cup and he's eager to make his mark in the competition with AFC Wimbledon.
Exactly 11 years ago, Anthony was handed his first-team debut as an 18-year-old for Colchester United at Shrewsbury Town in what was then the Carling Cup, an appearance that paved the way for a long career in the game. The midfielder was also a part of a Colchester team that faced then Premier League side Sunderland back in 2010.
Speaking ahead of tonight's Carabao Cup tie at Portsmouth, Anthony recalled: "I came on as a substitute in the second-half for my debut at Shrewsbury. I think the game went to extra-time and we ended up losing on penalties. It was a nice moment for me to come on. I remember it too because my Dad would watch me in every game, but he missed that one! We did not know I would be on the bench and getting on, so he didn't bother and missed my first appearance. We were a bit gutted about that. I had been in and around the squad, travelling to away games with the first-team, but to get on in that game was a bit of a surprise. I thought I did well in that game, but I had to wait eight months for my next first-team appearance so maybe I didn't do as well as I thought!
"I have been in teams that have made progress before and one season I was in the Colchester United team that played up at Sunderland when they were in the Premier League. We got beaten 2-0 with Darren Bent scoring both goals. It was a good experience as I was still quite young then and it is a nice memory."
Now aged 29 and aiming to establish himself at his new club, Anthony is relishing the challenge of trying to get a first win for AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Cup since the club was reformed.
"We want to win as it would be nice to get one of the big teams away from home in the next round," added Anthony, who came on as a late substitute for his Dons debut against Coventry. "It's a game of football that we want to win and we will go to Portsmouth with confidence after our last couple of results. We have 10 new players in the squad, so hopefully we can change that record."