THE prospect of a trip to Wembley has fired up Michael Raynes to help Oxford United start a run in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy against Portsmouth tonight, writes DAVID PRITCHARD.

The competition struggles to capture the imagination for many, but after receiving a bye in the first round, the U’s are four games from the final.

Raynes (above) has never played at the national stadium, after coming agonisingly close in 2008, and the reward on offer gives added incentive.

He said: “There’s not many games to have a chance of getting to Wembley.

“I’ve never been lucky enough to play there and I’d love to.

“I got injured in a play-off semi-final with Stockport so missed the final and in the back of my mind it’s always there for me that I really want an opportunity to play there.”

United are expected to shuffle their pack tonight, with several youngsters in line for a run-out.

Raynes felt it was down to the senior figures in the team to assist them.

He said: “Whoever gets the shirt has a chance to go and express themselves.

“If a couple of the younger lads play it’s a big day out for them and we’ll do all we can to support them as best we can.”