FORMER Cirencester players James Constable and Matthew Mcentegart can't wait to return to their old club in Tuesday night's vital league game.
It will be the first return for both players to the Corinium Stadium since their moves from to Chippenham. Constable was one of Steve White's first signings back in November and Mcentegart made his move in the summer.
Constable, who spent four years at Cirencester, said he has been looking forward to this game all season. He said: "This was the first game that I looked for when the fixture list came out. I can't wait to get back and see my old mates.
"It will be weird walking on that pitch without the Cirencester kit on."
Mcentegart is preparing to lock horns with old teammate Adam Mayo. He said: "Adam is a close friend and was my partner in midfield. I will be put against him in the centre, which will be a challenge. We have been chatting about the game and are both anticipating a tough one.
"I don't think I have ever been in the away changing rooms, it will be strange getting changed in there."
Cirencester manager Brian Hughes is not going to make any special preparations to deal with the two players. He said: "It will be good to have them back. They are both honest players and I am sure the fans will give them a good reception when they return.
"This is a local derby and the first time we have played Chippenham for a number of years. I expect there to be a big crowd."
Cirencester are currently eighth in the Southern Premier League but are only five points behind the Bluebirds. Hughes is expecting the game to be close. He said: "We have had a steady start to the season, the game will be evenly contested but I hope that Chippenham go home empty handed."
Before that Chippenham face fourth- placed Chesham United, who are just a point below the Bluebirds, at home on Saturday.
Chesham manager Steve Bateman thinks it will be a close encounter. He said: "It is another journey into the unknown for us.
"I have been involved with football for ages and have never come across Chippenham before. They have made a great start just as we have, it will be tough for both sides."
Chesham have won their last four games with a 3-5-2 formation. Bateman said: "We have two great wing backs, they are very quick and play their positions effectively."
He says striker John Lawford is their player to watch. He tops the league's scoring chart with 11 goals.
Chesham will be without winger Chris Herron, who broke his leg and will be out for the rest of the season.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article