COLIN Doyle wants a medal to go with a Wembley win this time.

The City stopper was at Birmingham when they upset the odds to beat Arsenal and lift the Carling Cup in 2011.

But he could not join the joyful procession up to the Royal Box because he was cup-tied.

Doyle had started that season on loan at Coventry but only played for them once. Unfortunately that was at Morecambe in the first round – which would deny him any involvement in the final.

“It was a frustrating one to miss,” he recalled. “I didn’t get a medal or anything which was disappointing.

“But I was there celebrating with the lads on the pitch afterwards – and hopefully I’ll be celebrating again tomorrow.

“It’s going to be a different experience from being there with Birmingham.

“I’ve waited a long time for this, I’m 31 now. It’s going to be a tough day but we’re raring to go.”

A year on from being relegated with Blackpool, Doyle stands on the brink of promotion to the Championship. That infamous £1 price tag has been well spent.

The giant stopper, who has been called up again by the Republic of Ireland next month, credits the role Stuart McCall has played in City’s successful season.

“He’s been a breath of fresh air,” he added. “The gaffer’s a legend here and the fans love him.

“That’s what he told us to say anyway!

“He laughs and jokes around the training ground but he puts the serious head on as well when we need it.

“Sometimes it can be easy for managers when they’ve won to put the same team out and play the same.

“This year we’ve changed personnel and our shape loads of times, which is good.

“He’s been fantastic with the lads this week. He’s bubbly and he’s laughing and you’ve got to do that.

“It’s just another game of football. Obviously there’s a bit more at stake but it’s one you want to play in.

“I’m sure the manager himself will be buzzing to get out at Wembley just as much as the players.”

Doyle’s early career included a half-season spell with Millwall.

He made 14 appearances in a side that were relegated from the Championship.

But it was a learning experience – and an eye-opener.

He added: “Colin Lee was the manager but he got the sack after a month and Dave Tuttle took over.

“I played a lot of football. I was only 18 at the time, so I was enjoying playing in the Championship.

“The Millwall crowd were all right, to be honest. Sometimes you looked over and they were fighting between themselves at some stages!

“It is what it is. But when you’re out on the pitch you’re not looking to see what’s going on in the stands to see what the fans are doing.

“You try to blank everything out and concentrate on the game.

“Obviously I’ve played a couple of times back there since but it’s going to be different come Wembley.”

Millwall’s chief threat comes from front pair Steve Morison and Lee Gregory, who have bagged 36 goals between them.

Doyle said: “They are a handful but we’ll be prepared. We’ve worked hard this week and know how we want to play.”