Manchester United v Aston Villa Special: Dalian Atkinson & Earl Barrett Recall How They Robbed United Of Treble

England international right-back Earl Barrett racked up 138 appearances in three seasons at Villa. The current coach of the Stoke City under-16s was handed the unenviable task of keeping Ryan Giggs quiet…

Goal.com UK: What do you remember about the build-up to the game? Ron Atkinson brought comedian Stan Boardman along for the match, did that help calm your nerves?

Barrett: "The build-up was great. We had our suits made for the final and the fans were outside the changing room as we were getting measured up which was great.

"Stan Boardman was on the bus beforehand telling a few jokes and it was all about relaxing and taking our minds off what was about to happen. That was typical of Ron Atkinson really, and it did the trick, but when it came to the match we were totally focused.

"On the final you're in the tunnel next to Paul Ince, Mark Hughes and Eric Cantona and you think, blooming hell, we've got a job on our hands here."

Goal.com UK: On the pitch, you had the job of marking Ryan Giggs. What kind of challenge did he pose?

Barrett: "My philosophy on football was that I wanted to play against the best players. To play against 'Giggsy' was a challenging moment in my career.

"To be fair, I did a decent job against him. He's even quoted me in some of his books as one of his most difficult opponents which is a fantastic accolade for myself.

"The thing with Ryan Giggs which sets him apart from every one else is that he never gives in. He kept me thinking by being quick and tricky."

Goal.com UK: Could you describe that feeling of when you know you are going to win a final at Wembley?

Barrett: "I'm one of them that it is not over until the fat lady sings. I never try and think ahead as that's when you can get too relaxed and the other team end up scoring.

"When we actually did it and it was the end of the game, it was relief. United were bang in form at the time but we did it in style, playing great football."

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Goal.com UK: What was the key to Aston Villa's success on the day?

Barrett: "All through the game we worked really well together as a team. The biggest thing for me on the day was that we were all over the pitch together and that's why we won the game.

"If there was ever a bunch of players working as a team for me that was it. Because of that we won the final.

"Our confidence was also sky high and we played free-flowing football."

Goal.com UK: What is your prediction for this Sunday's final?

Barrett: "That's a good one. I think if the Villa lads can work together as a team as we did all those years ago I can see them winning 2-1.

"Villa have got some fantastic, British players as well. Martin O'Neill has done a fantastic job of getting a young team together.

"A lot of team are playing football on the counter these days, and with the blistering pace of Gabriel Agbonlahor and Ashley Young, those two alone can really worry defenses."

Goal.com UK: Can you describe your emotions building up to the game?

Atkinson: "I just looked to enjoy myself. Obviously, it was a massive event, but it's not so much for the players, but more the supporters.

"You had to look at it as just another game and go out there and win.

"The whole thing felt a bit surreal, though. The match reminded me of being a youngster dreaming of playing at Wembley and it was an awesome feeling to go out there."

Goal.com UK: As you said, it is every youngster's dream to walk out at Wembley. Can you remember the minutes before the kick off?

Up for the cup | Atkinson celebrates final goal