Terry Gibson, part of the Wimbledon side who famously defeated Liverpool in the 1988, is looking forward to tomorrow’s clash against Barnet.
Former Crazy Gang member Terry Gibson is looking forward to AFC Wimbledon’s match against Barnet tomorrow.
Gibson, 48, was part of the Wimbledon side with Bees boss Lawrie Sanchez that famously beat Liverpool in the 1988 FA Cup final.
But Gibson is sure his old teammate won’t be doing Wimbledon any favours.
He said: “Lawrie’s looking forward to it but his priority is to get some points for Barnet.”
Sanchez’s side have struggled this season, and many expected him to sacked after last weekend’s 6-3 defeat at home to Burton left them second bottom.
“He’s aware he’s under pressure as is any manager if your results are not favourable,” said Gibson.
“Whichever team you’re in charge of, whether it’s Manchester United or Barnet, or down in the bottom divisions, you’re in the same boat.
Sanchez is a cult hero among Wombles supporters after scoring the winning goal in their cup triumph.
And Gibson said: “He thinks he’ll get a better response from the Wimbledon fans than he will the Barnet ones!”
Gibson believes Sanchez has taken on a big task, but that criticism is unfair. He said: “Barnet are always down at the bottom of the league whoever’s in charge.
“I think Lawrie’s still hoping he can turn things around and at least get them into a mid-table position and progress from there.”
As for Wimbledon, Gibson thinks it will be difficult for his side to achieve successive promotions, despite a flying opening to their campaign.
“If you go into a new league it’s important you get off to a good start, which they’ve done and which will hold them in good stead.
“I think they can push for the playoffs, but when you look at the bigger picture we’ve just come up and we’re talking about promotion.
“I know some clubs do it but it would be great just to stabilise and maintain that healthy position in our first year back in the football league.
“I’d love to see it and there’s every possibility but I don’t think we should forget where they’ve come from in such a short space of time.
“It’s hard to keep a lid on expectation levels but it’s better at times.
But whatever happens this season, Gibson will be proud of his team.
He said: “I kept an eye on things all the way through their progress and I’m genuinely thrilled they’re back in the football league.
“I’m looking forward to them climbing up the divisions over the years because I’m sure they will.”
Asked whether he was anticipating the seemingly inevitable grudge match with MK Dons, Gibson said: “I would love to see that. No guesses who I want to win!”
He added: “It’s been a hell of an achievement for everybody involved in the club and I wish them nothing but success.”
