CUP FINAL SPECIAL: Pages 50-51

LINFIELD legend and former Ballymena United manager Glenn Ferguson says fans can expect a real thriller when the two title-chasing sides clash in the final of the BetMcLean League Cup at Windsor Park tonight (5.30pm, live on Sky Sports).

It is a third League Cup final in a row for the Sky Blues and Linfield’s first since Ferguson’s late double blast sunk Crusaders 3-2 in the 2008 decider.

United beat Carrick Rangers to lift the trophy in 2017 but lost last year’s final to Dungannon Swifts. Both sides meet in a crucial Premiership clash at Windsor Park next Saturday, but the season’s first major piece of silverware is on the line tonight.

Ferguson, who is Linfield’s Academy Director, says he expects both teams to show their attacking prowess.

“I think it will be a great final with two teams really going for it,” said ‘Spike’, who was Sky Blues boss from 2012 to the end of February 2016 and steered the club to two County Antrim Shield triumphs.

“There will be goals, and they are one and two in the league so form has dictated who has reached the final. It should be a fascinating game.

“It surprises me that Linfield haven’t been in the final since 2008. Ballymena have done really well and have a big squad now with two players for every position. They have sustained a title challenge and are certainly not out of it.

“The league game between the two coming up will also be fascinating as if Linfield can win it, that could knock Ballymena out of it. Linfield had a poor season last year but David (Healy) explained what it takes to sustain a challenge and they have stood up and been counted so far.” Silver lining: Glenn Ferguson after Linfield’s 2008 League Cup win