Mitch Clark has played in every game so far this season but admits the Emirates FA Cup is extra special.
The Reds take on National League promotion chasers Barnet at the Wham Stadium in the second round tomorrow with a coveted place in the third round up for grabs, when the Premier League teams come into the competition.
“The FA Cup for everyone is massive,” said the 23-year-old defender.
“When I was growing up, the thing you looked forward to was watching the FA Cup, watching the small teams beat the big teams and knowing the Third Round is around the corner is something to look forward to.
“Barnet will be up for it as much as we are and it should be a good day.”
After being out of the squad for spells last season, Clark has cemented his place in the Stanley starting XI this season and, after a disappointing run, the Reds have turned a corner with two 1-0 wins this week, one in the league and one in the Papa Johns Trophy.
“The effort has always been there apart from the odd game, Fleetwood was a standout, but since that meeting it gave us all a big boost and there has been a massive change, everyone can see that.
“We are not shipping in goals which is a big bonus and getting a few wins has helped us out.
“When things aren’t going your way, you are low on confidence, it’s a key thing in football, and the more we build on our current performances, we are only going to get better.
“Being a defender, clean sheets are things that you live for. If you ship in goals, it doesn’t look good for yourself and the team so 1-0 victories are the best.
“It is great to have been involved in every game. I came in in the summer thinking I wouldn’t be in the team because of the way it went last season so for me to play every game so far it’s been enjoyable and I am progressing as much as I can.”
The full pre-match interview with Mitch Clark is available to watch on the club's official YouTube channel, CLICK HERE to find out more!