Manchester City lunchtime trip on Saturday to League One team Leyton Orient will signify more than most for Orient manager Richie Wellens.
The 44-year-old still has an Old Trafford season ticket and has always been a fan of City’s rivals, Manchester United. He also graduated from the United’s academy and played for the team once before spending 17 years playing for other Football League teams.
Since then, he has moved into management, winning the EFL Trophy while managing Salford City and leading both Orient and Swindon to promotion from League Two in recent years.
Orient are now in one of the play-off spots and are soaring high in League One. After eliminating Championship team Derby County in the third round, they are now aiming for City.
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According to the Manchester Evening News, in addition to being thrilled to see the Premier League winners at Brisbane Road, Wellens is also looking forward to the opportunity to challenge Pep Guardiola, whom he acknowledges has hurt him as a United supporter in recent years.
What Did Wellens Say About Man City?
“We can’t wait,” Wellens said about the prospect of facing City.
“It’s good exposure for the club and we’ve got a lot of young, talented players who have really grown this season so for them to go up against some of the best players in the world is really good for them.
“It’s more about us trying to put on a show and stay in the game as much as possible.
“City are a brilliant football team, but there are a few vulnerabilities about them at the moment. Can we try and expose them as much as we can?
“I have to say Pep has caused me a lot of pain in the past, me and my sons, with how good they are.”
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