Alloa Supporters FC captain Steven Gardner admitted he is likely to be in awe when he walks out to face a Wasps Legends XI on Sunday.

The skipper revealed he was starstruck before last year’s event, but says he will be even more so this time around thanks to the presence of a certain former Alloa hero.

And the midfielder reckons Sunday’s game will be a special occasion for the fans’ team.

Gardner told Advertiser Sport: “I was starstruck last year because I used to go and watch all these guys when I was a kid, and I think I will be the same this year because Willie Irvine is playing.

"The first game I can remember is the Challenge Cup final in 1999, and he was my favourite player at that time. To have him signed up to play is just amazing.

“I can’t wait for it. Playing against anyone who has played professionally is a great experience. Hopefully we can raise a lot of money for the club.”

The legends have added departing Wasps heroes Graeme Holmes and Jason Marr to their ranks, and Gardner admitted he is expecting a much more difficult game than last year, when the fans were defeated 4-1 after holding their heroes to a goalless first half.

He said: “It’s brilliant to have them involved and it says a lot about them that they are willing to take the time to get involved in a day like this. It shows how much they appreciate the fans.

"Having people like Jason and Graeme, who have been great servants to the club, taking part shows that the club means a lot to them. It is a nice way for them to bow out after a long time at Alloa.

"Last year we went in at half time at 0-0, but given how much stronger the Legends’ team is this year I’m expecting a much tougher challenge.

"They will use their experience and I’m expecting them to run us ragged. They will probably have us chasing them all over the park."

Gardner is hoping the game can give his side some time in limelight as they look to raise funds for next season, and says it is an exciting time for the supporters’ team.

He added: “It is an exciting time for us. Hopefully this time, we are getting more attention, what with now being a more established team.

"There will also be a lot of excitement, especially for some of the younger boys coming through because some of them never got the chance to take part last year.

"The legends are just people like us but to the fans, it’s as exciting as Manchester United fans getting to play against their heroes.”