Craig Johnston says his Workington Reds Legends side are champing at the bit to pull their boots back on this weekend.

Johnston is managing the Legends side who will take on a current Workington Reds XI for the Tony Hopper Memorial Trophy at Borough Park on Saturday.

And he said the former players returning for the Legends side are all keen to get back on the field for what could be the last ever game on the ground.

“It is nice to have all the lads back again. It is a long time since some of them have got together and everyone is looking forward to it,” said Johnston

“We have a WhatsApp group going and the banter on there is just brilliant.

“The lads that are playing just can’t wait to have a go. We have got a great squad and in our heyday we would have taken on anyone.

“Obviously they want to go out there and do well, it’s a good side but we will have to wait and see what happens on the day.”

A host of former players are flocking back to Borough Park to take part including Gareth Arnison, Graham Anthony, Dave Hewson, Derek Townsley, Mark Boyd, Matt Henney, Darren Wilson and Will Varty, to name but a few.

The trophy is to be presented at the end of the match to the winning side by the late midfielder’s father, John Hopper.

And Johnston added that this match will truly be a fitting tribute to the memory of Tony Hopper.

“He was a special bloke so he definitely deserves this in his memory,” added Johnston.

Before the game, which celebrates 82 years of football at Borough Park, the Reds Ladies will take a lap of honour, parading the County Cup they won at the weekend.

There are youth games from 10am in the morning, alongside a family fun day, ahead of the Legends clash, which kicks off at 2pm. And a big screen will be rolled onto the pitch so that fans can watch the FA Cup final live from Wembley, which kicks off at 5pm.