John Swift knows Walsall will provide a stern challenge for Brentford when the Bees get their FA Cup campaign under way on Saturday.
The Saddlers will be looking to show former boss Dean Smith what he is missing after the 44-year-old moved to Griffin Park in December.
But the Chelsea loanee, who extended his loan with the club for the rest of the season, is desperate to see Brentford enjoy a strong cup run.
Swift said, when asked whether he felt Walsall will be up for it to get one over their ex-boss: “Yes, Walsall are going to want to win, but we also want to reach the next round.
“I think all the players will want to perform for him as it’s against his old team.”
If selected, the 20-year-old will make his debut in the most famous cup competition in the world and he has fond memories of watching Chelsea beat Portsmouth in the 2010 final.
“I definitely want my first game, if selected, in the FA Cup to be a win,” he said. “I went to the FA Cup final when Chelsea beat Portsmouth.
“I’m from the Portsmouth area and my family and friends support Portsmouth. We got tickets and it was at Wembley and one of the first big games I went to see.”
It is a big week for Brentford as, following the cup tie, they face leaders Middlesbrough and high-flying Burnley in the space of six days.
Swift added: “All the players know the two games coming up after the FA Cup.
“Everyone is thinking about the FA Cup first but afterwards, everyone’s heads will be switched onto Middlesbrough and Burnley.
“If we’re going to get up there we need to do well in those two games. Hopefully we can get the win in both.”
