OXFORD United fans were able to get both hands on the Checkatrade Trophy this week, but captain John Lundstram kept his mitts well away from the silverware ahead of next week’s Wembley final.

The U’s skipper said superstitiously he didn’t want to touch the cup sat inches away from him, but added he hoped he would be lifting it up in front of a crowd of about 70,000 fans at the national stadium on April 2.

Ahead of the club’s trip to the capital to take on Coventry City, some of the Yellow Army met the midfielder, 23, along with centre-back Curtis Nelson and striker Toni Martinez on Thursday at the club’s shop next to the Kassam Stadium.

Supporters gathered to buy merchandise, get their strips signed and have pictures taken with  players, chairman Darryl Eales, and the trophy.

Skipper Lundstram, who was suspended against Barnsley for last year’s Wembley trip, said he could not wait to lead the U’s out next Sunday.

He added: “It’s massive, especially being able to lead the lads out this year and for the fans I would just say it’s a massive reward for them and one they deserve.

“They have been fantastic since I have been at the club over the past two years.

“It’s a massive support and we all know how much it costs to get to Wembley and stuff like that. It doesn’t go unnoticed.

“We are thankful and hopefully we can put on a display on the day.”

Fans packing out the store said they were all looking forward to the game.

Tony Crook, 49, from Bicester, said: “I’m really excited about going again.”

Lewis Mulcahy, 25, from Greater Leys, got his shirt signed by the players and said the only signatures he needs to complete the squad are of manager Michael Appleton and Conor McAleny

He added: “Coventry are quite bad, we should win. I think they are the worst team we have played at the Kassam this season.”

United ran out 4-1 winners the last time they played Coventry in November.

Eales said he loved seeing the ‘excitement, buzz and camaraderie’ in the city ahead of the Wembley trophy final.

He added: “There are so many youngsters getting  their first experience of Oxford United and hopefully they can become lifelong fans.

“It’s one of those rare opportunities for your home- town club to win silverware.

“The best team will win on the day and hopefully that will be us.”