Source: Liverpool_Echo
Liverpool FC defender Stephen Darby hopes for Wembley role today
Liverpool FC defender Stephen Darby hopes for Wembley role today[LNB]FOR a player still of relative youth, Stephen Darby has encountered some memorable moments in his fledgling career.[LNB]From two triumphant FA Youth Cup campaigns to his senior debut against Atletico Madrid at the Vicente Calderon stadium the season before last, Darby also played in the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup for Liverpool last season.[LNB]At just 21, the Academy graduate's scrapbook is already the envy of many professional footballers who can only dream of scaling such heights.[LNB]He will add another chapter today if, as expected, he steps out at Wembley for Swindon Town against Millwall in the League One play-off final.[LNB]Darby joined the Robins on a three month loan deal at the end of last season where his impressive form has seen him hold down a place in Danny Wilson's promotion chasing side.[LNB]It was his penalty that clinched Swindon's spot in this afternoon's showpiece; Darby displaying nerves of steel to slot the winning spot-kick in the semi-final shoot-out against Charlton.[LNB]'As I was walking up to take the penalty I was just trying to block everything out of my mind,' Darby told the ECHO.[LNB]'I knew I had to focus on the penalty and nothing else. Thankfully for us I caught it right and it's gone in.'[LNB]Darby admits his vital role at The Valley stands alongside his growing list of grand occasions.[LNB]"It's up there with the top games,'he said.[LNB]'It's definitely one of the biggest moments in my career to date.[LNB]'I've been fortunate enough to make my senior debut for Liverpool. That was a massive night in my career.[LNB]'But I'd certainly say the semi-final with Charlton was up there with that.'[LNB]Growing up as a Liverpool fan means stepping out for his boyhood club for the first time will take some beating.[LNB]But should Darby help Swindon claim the third and final place in the Championship today he says the winner takes all Wembley affair could give his Liverpool debut a run for its money.[LNB]'It's another massive game,' he said.[LNB]'When you're a kid you dream of this, playing at Wembley with so much at stake.[LNB]'Although I've always been a Liverpool fan, Saturday will definitely be up there with making my Liverpool debut.'[LNB]Promotion today would be the icing on the cake for Darby at the end of a successful loan spell that has earned him rave reviews at the Wiltshire club.[LNB]'From the first day I came to Swindon I've been welcomed by all the lads,' he said.[LNB]'Up until now it's been nothing but a great experience. Hopefully it will stand me in good stead for the future.
