BILLY Knott says he cannot wait to take to the field for the “biggest game of his career so far” when Bradford City visit Chelsea in the fourth round of the FA Cup this weekend.

One of Canvey Island’s most successful exports, Knott is making quite a name for himself at League One outfit Bradford City.

The 22-year-old midfielder scored three goals in two matches against Championship side Millwall who they saw off after a replay in the third round.

And the former Cornelius Vermuyden School lad is now gunning for the side he started his career at, coming through the youth ranks between 2007 and 2010.

“This is a massive game – for me, the club and the supporters. It would give us a financial boost as well which is important so I have to say this is the most important game of my career.

“My biggest game to date was probably playing for England against Argentina at the Under-20 World Cup in 2011 but this will be an amazing occasion.”

Knott left the Premier League side to join Sunderland, where he made his Premier League debut, but has since been loaned to a number of clubs before completing a permanent move to Bradford last May.

And he has flourished, scoring seven times in 30 appearances so far in his debut season for the club.

Knott says Saturday’s trip to Premier League leaders Chelsea will be a great occasion for everyone connected with the club.

Although he says the Bantams are not going to Stamford Bridge to make up the numbers.

“We have been training hard and trying to keep ourselves compact,” said the former Concord Rangers youngster. “The gaffer keeps emphasising how important that is and we just cannot be overawed by the occasion and chase the ball.

“Obviously these boys are a step above the League One players we play every week so we need to take that into account.

“We need to stick together. We know they will have long periods of possession but we need to stay calm and look to take advantage of the moments we have.

“But we also have to go there, give 100 per cent and enjoy the game.”

Manager Phil Parkinson came within 10 minutes of earning a replay with Chelsea in the FA Cup in 2006 when he was Colchester United manager, before a late turn-around saw Chelsea win 3-1.

Knott has been thriving in an advanced midfield role in recent weeks, and has scored four goals in his last five games.

“I am really enjoying playing in this role,” he said. “I am playing just off the strikers in the hole and it is working well. When you can feed off the likes of James Hanson you know there will be chances to get in behind and pick up some loose balls.”

Knott says a number of his team-mates have been asking him what they can expect at Stamford Bridge, although he admits his time there feels a long time ago now.

“I have spoken to the boys about the game but to be honest I don’t know many of the Chelsea players,” he said. “Most of the youth players I played with are out on loan, although I will know some of the staff.

“I spoke with Josh McEachran (Chelsea midfielder) about playing the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Nemanja Matic and he was telling me about how good they are. Cesc is one of the best in his world in that position while Matic has come in and been very consistent.”

Knott will be roared on by his family on the day, including dad Steve who has played for a number of south Essex clubs.

“My dad asks me if I’m nervous but I am just excited,” he laughed. “I may feel a bit differently before the game but for now it is just excitement.

“I have sorted out some of the family with tickets so I know they will enjoy their day out. I think the club sold out its allocation in two hours so there were a lot of disappointed fans. I hope we can make them happier with a cup upset!”