CHEY Dunkley is fired-up by the memory of watching Barnsley celebrate at Wembley 12 months ago as Oxford United return bidding to go one better.

The centre back could be the only player in Michael Appleton’s starting line-up in the Checkatrade Trophy who was also in the XI at the national stadium last season.

Dunkley scored an own goal in the 3-2 defeat and is determined his second visit to Wembley has a happy ending.

He said: “To come back 12 months later we want to put it right. Of course it hurt.

“We got our medals and then came down to see Barnsley lift the trophy.

“You’re thinking ‘we were so close’.

“Wembley’s a lovely place to play, but it’s not a nice place to lose.

“That’s not a feeling I want to have again.”

Returning so soon is a huge bonus, especially for a player in only his second full season in the Football League.

The former Kidderminster Harriers defender was pleased with the way he handled the final against the Tykes and thinks it will stand him in good stead against Coventry City.

He said: “I don’t think the occasion got to me last season.

“But because I’ve been there and played on the surface, it’s not going to change.

“You get a feel for it and are a bit more comfortable because you’ve been there before, so moving forward I have had the experience of playing there and it helps.

“It’s not every day players even at a higher level get to go there.

“World class players have graced that pitch, so to play on it is definitely a milestone for all players. It’s going to be a great day for the fans.

“It’s a lovely place to play, so I’m very fortunate to be there again.”

The 25-year-old was clearly not overawed last season, memorably creating a chance in the first half with a Cruyff Turn in Barnsley’s penalty area when the ball came his way.

“I’m not putting any pressure on myself to do any type of skill at Wembley again this year,” he said.

“I just want to do my job and get the job done.

“Hopefully it’s us lifting the trophy at the end of the day.”