THE 10th anniversary of Swindon Town's play-off victory over Leicester is almost upon us but the man whose goal secured a Premiership place believes the club may never emulate that feat again.

Paul Bodin's 85th-minute penalty on May 31, 1993 sealed a famous 4-3 win over Leicester at Wembley, a place in domestic football's top flight and the chance to rub shoulders with the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool.

A decade later Town find themselves keeping company with the Colchester's and Wycombe's of this world and Bodin fears the Halcyon days of trips to Old Trafford and Anfield may never return.

Speaking ahead of Town's 10th anniversary celebrations, the former Welsh international left-back said: "It's amazing to think it was that long ago they were great days.

"Having seen what's happened to the club over the last 10 years you tend to look back at the better times.

"I think to get to the Premiership now is probably out of reach."

The 38-year-old is presently employed as an academy coach at the County Ground, and while he is unable to explain Town's fall from grace he thinks that following the lead of a local rival is the only way to reclaim the glory days.

"It's hard to say where it all went wrong. People blame the finances but it's difficult to put your finger on it exactly.

"We lost three key players after getting promoted Glenn Hoddle, Colin Calderwood and Dave Mitchell. That was the spine of the team and that had a big impact.

"We went down two divisions and although we won the second division championship under Steve McMahon we haven't really had much to shout about.

"To get back where we were we would have to do what Reading have done and get a new stadium and try and get a new influx of supporters and generate more money from outside of football.

"When you compare the two clubs 10 years ago Swindon were a far bigger club but now Reading have a fantastic stadium and are riding high in the

first division.That's the way to go, but where do you get the money from? Unless you've got major backers it's difficult.

"I still work at the club and I'd love to see more people going back through the doors but we have to start putting something on the pitch and we haven't been in a financial position to do that."

Town's current stars have been assembled on a shoestring, but if they need the inspiration to forge their own play-off push next season they should listen to Bodin's memories of Wembley '93.

"It was just such a good game," he said. "We went 3-0 up and were cruising and suddenly it was 3-3. Then came the penalty. I remember Hoddle picking up the ball and knocking it over the top to Steve (White).

"He ran between two defenders and was blocked it was a penalty. I struck it low to the keeper's left and he went the other way.

"It was of such significance to me and the club. To reach the Premiership was a major achievement and we fully deserved it.

"I've played for my country and nobody can take that away, but winning that day was phenomenal.

"As a player they were great days and hopefully they will come back to this club."