We’re sure everyone who follows football has dreamed of walking out under the famous Wembley arch and representing their hometown team.
On Sunday, this dream could become a reality for Academy graduate Ben Wiles, who will be hoping to take to the field in Papa Johns Trophy Final against Sutton United.
Wiles was involved the last time the Millers were in the capital in the pursuit of silverware, against Shrewsbury Town in the 2018 Sky Bet League One Play-off final, but as a young pro, didn’t make the bench.
Paul Warne wanted everyone in the squad to be ‘a part of it’, with Wiles taking position just behind the dugout as the Millers overcame Salop to win promotion.
Now, having had a ‘taste of it’, the midfielder is determined to leave his mark on the national stadium this time around.
“It’s getting closer and closer and I’m looking forward to it,” Wiles told www.themillers.co.uk.
“I was involved in the team that went down to Wembley the last time we were there, but I didn’t make the bench.
“I was a young pro at the time and didn’t have a lot of experience and it was nice to be involved in that special day and I want to play a big part in another one.
“I watched from the stands. The Gaffer wanted us all to be a part of it, so I was behind the bench. Just to be a part of that experience was incredible.
“To experience Wembley is any young boy's dream and as a local lad from Rotherham, it makes it that extra bit special that I’ll hopefully get to experience it on Sunday."
“Occasions like this don’t come around very often, so I want to go out there and perform to the best of my abilities and show anyone that dreams can become a reality.
“It would be special for the team to win the trophy. We’ve bounced back so well from the disappointment of last season. We have such a togetherness about the place and we want to win this trophy, not just for ourselves, but for The Gaffer and the staff who have helped us all get here.”
Wiles has made over 150 appearances for the Millers, despite his tender years and has played an integral role in the team’s push for an immediate return to the second tier.
The 22-year-old has contributed nine goals in 45 appearances this season and feels that he is playing some of his best football.
“I’ve enjoyed every moment of it and I’m living the dream of so many young kids and that isn’t lost on me."
“I want to go on and continue playing as many games as I can, you never know what’s going to happen in football, things change all the time.
“I’ve played a lot of games and I feel like I’ve taken my game to another level this season. I’m starting to add goals and assists to my game.
“I’m finding myself further up the pitch and I’m getting myself into positions to shoot. I think I should be on more, there’s a lot chances that I’ve missed, but I’m happy to keep adding to my tally. Hopefully I can keep doing that.”