ACCRINGTON Stanley boss John Coleman says tonight’s Checkatrade Trophy opponents Lincoln City can provide inspiration to his side as they try and reach Wembley for the first time in their history.

The Reds take on the Imps in the last 32 tonight in a repeat of a clash at this stage of the competition last term when Lincoln won 3-2 at Sincil Bank.

Danny Cowley’s side went on to win the competition and Coleman is hoping history can reverse itself this time around.

“It is a huge game for us and our opponents experienced that last year and lifted the cup and they won’t want to give up their trophy lightly,” he said. “That makes it an even more competitive game.

“That game could have gone either way last year and I saw them in the final when they were excellent. They have strengthened and they are taking League Two by storm and have some good players.

“We got knocked out by Lincoln at this stage last season so we know is is going to be a tough game.

“Their management duo have produced good times and we always expect a tough game from them. I would be amazed if they don’t go up.”

Stanley chairman Andy Holt has been a supporter of the much maligned competition given the financial rewards on offer with the Reds having earned £40,000 so far and the chance to pocket £20,000 if they progress to the last-16.

And Coleman says that windfall and the opportunity to reach Wembley are key motivating factors.

He added: “It does bring the chance to get to Wembley which is a key factor and the financial rewards are good in this competition and we have to strive to keep earning them.”

The Reds have doubts over Billy Kee, who featured in the weekend FA Cup win over Cheltenham but is nursing a foot injury, and Coleman could mix up his squad with a League One clash against Sunderland on the horizon.

He added: “We have just to got to see what the bill of health is from the weekend, we’ve got a few bumps and bruises. Billy wasn’t quite right at the weekend going into the game and nor were a couple of others so we will have to see how they are.”