My first City game was like my first cigarette. Unpleasant, bewildering, forbidden by my family and most definitely not good for my health, but I could never be without them again!

At home to Ipswich in August 1996 we won 1 nil and the football was poor. Apart from a 25th minute Lomas goal nothing much happened to encourage the 29,000 in attendance…as if they needed it! The Maine Road atmosphere was electric, the numbers were high following relegation and the songs were flowing and humorous – the pitch was as green as anything I had ever seen in my life!

Forget trophies, superstars, Panini Cards and hat-tricks this was real life. Id made 29,000 friends in one day and I couldnt wait to meet up again! I wouldnt have swapped places with anyone in the whole world that day. Its now 12 years on and if your anything like me… I’ll be seeing you at weekend! Come on City!!!