Butcher excited by Boston clash

By Nathan Jackson
September 7 2004

Imps midfielder, Ricky Butcher has revealed that he is really looking forward to playing against his childhood hero, Paul Gascoigne but remains focused and knows the Imps must build on last Saturday's win against Bury.

A crowd of over 7,000 is expected to come to Sicnil Bank to watch what is arguably, the biggest rivalry in League 2. Ricky Butcher is due to start the game where he will be against England legend, Paul Gascoigne.

"Gascoigne is a legend and certainly was a boyhood hero of mine, I can remember watching him in the 1990 World Cup and his tears in the semi-final against Germany. That was a long time ago, but I'm sure he is still a quality player who will have flair, skill and a great footballing brain."

Gazza hasn't exactly got off to a suttle start, in 2 games so far, he has been booked twice and in the last game against Cambridge, he had numerous scuffles with ex-Imps Justin Walker including elbowing and kicking Walker but got away with a yellow card where everyone else would have got a red.

Butcher has come a long way in two years from being a regular on the subs bench at Kettering to an almost guaranteed first choice at Sincil Bank.

"Just over two years ago I was still at Kettering Town, so I never thought I would have the chance - if selected - to play against someone like Gascoigne. Everyone will want to have a look at him and I'm sure there will be a good crowd. Sincil Bank is a great stadium to play in when there's a big crowd."

Ricky however, is under no illusion and knows that City have to build on last week's win at Bury if we're to stand any chance of getting promoted this season after only 2 wins from our first 7 league games.

"Once three o'clock comes he will just be another player - I can't afford to be star-struck! I think myself and Peter Gain will have a tough job. We know we have to start winning our home games. No-one knows why we struggle at Sincil Bank because there's no obvious reason. We didn't get off to the best start to the season as everyone knows. But last Saturday's win at Bury has restored a lot of confidence."

Kick off on Saturday is 3pm with a good game expected. The league record against Boston stands at 1 win, 1 loss and 2 draws.