Liverpool FC fans head south to Wembley to face Cardiff City in the Carling Cup final

Feb 25 2012 by Mark Johnson, Liverpool Echo

Liverpool FC fan Adrian Killen

Lloyd, 30, said: “It was always nice down in Cardiff and I hope new Wembley will be the same. I hope King Kenny does the business and the team goes on to win the cup with a professional performance.”

Ernie Ashley, originally from Huyton, told the ECHO of one of his fondest Wembley memories when he was captured kissing the shoes of the Reds legendary former manager Bill Shankly.

Ex-docker Ernie, 68, said: “At the 1974 FA Cup final I jumped across a moat surrounding the pitch and managed to escape the police who had dogs and guns.

“Shankly said to me, ‘Make sure you do a good job on my shoes while you are down there son’. It was a great game and Liverpool won three-nil. I’d gladly take that score this Sunday.”

Season ticket holder Lenny Woods, who will make his 34th Wembley appearance as a Reds fan, said: “I’m really excited because it is such a big occasion.”

Former Kop hero and Reds fan John Aldridge will be at the game.

He said: “It’s great to be going to a final. This game is all about the younger fans who have not been to Wembley. For Liverpool to be there after such a long time also means a lot. Personally, the League Cup holds special memories for me because I won it with Oxford United in 1986.”

AN AUDIENCE with former Reds right midfielder Jimmy Case will take place at the Crying Pub in Gateacre from 3pm on Sunday.

He will be providing expert analysis. For details call the pub on 0151 428 2513.

SEND in your Wembley house party pictures to liverpooldigitaldesk@gmail.com