Why ex-Sheffield United star can’t wait for FA Cup trip to Sheffield Wednesday after ‘huge’ Sunderland comparison

Clough, a brief loanee at Hillsborough late in his playing days, spent two seasons in charge at Bramall Lane and was, in many eyes, unfortunate to be sacked after leading the Blades to the semi-finals of the FA Cup and the play-offs during his time in charge.

Quinn scored against the Owls in an EFL Trophy tie last season, running to celebrate in front of the Wednesday supporters, and Clough said: “It's a wonderful experience for the players and the fans. We have a couple of big Sheff Wed fans in the camp as well. Stephen Quinn spent a lot of time at Sheffield United and he's looking forward to it for a different reason.”

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The Stags are expected to take a big following to Hillsborough, with tickets priced very competitively by Wednesday, and Clough hopes his side take the experience of playing in front of a good crowd at Sunderland into the game.

“We’ve been up to the Stadium of Light in the last couple of seasons and now it’s another huge League One club,” Clough said. “It wasn’t too long since we were last there but it’s still a wonderful experience for the players and the supporters. We have the belief that we can win. When we play at these stadiums it doesn't faze us. We have very good players who can perform in these venues and they have to step up and show it.”

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