Brighton's Andrew Whing excited by Villa prospect

Whing has played 125 games for Brighton in two spells

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Andrew Whing says he is excited by Saturday's FA Cup clash against boyhood heroes Aston Villa.

The 25-year-old holds a season ticket at Villa Park alongside his father.

He told BBC Sussex: "It's quite funny and surreal actually. I never thought it would ever happen to be honest.

"If I am involved it will be fantastic, strange to be rubbing shoulders with them rather than sitting in the stand watching them."

Whing played at Villa Park in school tournaments as a teenager before signing professional terms with Championship side Coventry City.

He has made 11 appearances for the Seagulls in all competitions this season, including the 2-0 win over Wycombe Wanderers in their FA Cup first round replay.

"It'll be a strange experience but all the lads are looking forward to it and it's a great for the supporters as well who'll travel up there," Whing added.

"It's a lovely stadium and they'll have a good day out as well."