DERRICK Williams believes a Wembley final is a great incentive for Rovers to take the Checkatrade Trophy seriously.

Williams was a winner of the competition back in its previous guise as the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy in 2015 when he was with former club Bristol City.

And he puts playing at Wembley as among his greatest achievements in the game, one he will look to replicate with Rovers this time around.

“It could be a once in a lifetime thing,” the 24-year-old said of playing at the national stadium.

“Every game you take seriously but knowing Wembley is at the end is a great incentive.

“I know how good it will be and will tell the lads how big a thing it is.”

Rovers take on Stoke City Under-21s in their opening Group D fixture, with Bury and Rochdale completing the group.

Williams, who could be in line to captain Rovers this evening, says the competition represents a realistic chance of silverware, and reflects on his day out at Wembley in 2015 with great fondness.

“Luckily enough we won it and it is a good experience,” he told the club’s official website.

“Going to Wembley and winning is a great feeling and it’s good for the club as well.

“It’s a good day out for the fans as well.

“I remember driving in on the bus, seeing all the fans, and it was a feeling that I’ve never felt before.

“Stepping out on that pitch was quality and one of the best feelings of my career.

“It was an unforgettable day.”

The competition has come in for plenty of criticism since switching to the new format last season with the introduction of group stages, and the inclusion of Category One Academy sides.

Bristol City romped to the League One title in 2014/15, with Williams playing 55 times that season, including the final.

And he says then boss Steve Cotterill made clear his feelings going in to the competition.

“The first game our gaffer said to us he said he wanted to win at least two trophies.

“Every competition we were in he took very seriously and it paid off.

“We won the double that season so it was good.”