Leicester City's Academy prospects aiming for cup glory
City's unbeaten academy side face the mighty Reds in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup (kick off 7pm), having already beaten Liverpool earlier this season in the Premier Academy League.
Rudkin said he is confident that City, who have never won the youth cup, can continue their memorable season at the expense of last season's cup runners-up and three-time winners of the competition.
Rudkin has every reason to be hopeful, as City have won 12 and drawn two of the league games this season, beating the likes of cup-holders Arsenal, as well as Liverpool, in the process.
"I think everyone is excited about the game as it is something very different to our weekly programme," said Rudkin. "It is a great opportunity to play in a big stadium in front of, hopefully, a big crowd.
"I think the biggest crowd they have played in front of before is about 300 to 400, and we are hopeful there will be more at the Walkers Stadium for this one.
"We beat Liverpool on Merseyside in our second game of the season, but this will be a different prospect. Liverpool have a good tradition in this competition.
"But it will be great for the lads' development and we will see how they cope with occasions like this."
Several members of the academy squad are now getting first-team recognition. Defenders Luke O'Neill and Tom Parkes were on the first-team bench against Sheffield United, and striker Elliott Chamberlain recently signed a professional contract.
"Several players have been around the first team this season and have been training with the senior players, which has been great for their development," said Rudkin. "We also have some great coaches, such as Steve Beaglehole and Trevor Peake, who have worked hard with them.
"They are doing well but it is very early on in their development and they have a number of years ahead of them before they mature as players.
"However, they are doing very well at the moment and I hope City fans come out in force to support them in the cup."
The club have made 2,000 free tickets available for season ticket-holders on a first-come, first- served basis and one only per season ticket, for tonight's game.
Season ticket holders will be required to quote their unique client reference number when claiming their ticket.
Prices for non-season ticket- holders are £3 for adults and £1 for under-18s.
To claim your free ticket, or for more details, ring the ticket office on 0844 8155000.
Jon Rudkin
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