BEN Williams is making the most of every second of City's FA Cup journey – after fearing he would never play football again.

The experienced keeper has played a big part in the run to the last eight. But ten years ago, it looked like his career would be over.

Williams spent four days in a medically-induced coma after contracting a bout of meningitis while playing for Crewe. So occasions like tomorrow's sold-out Valley Parade showdown now seem extra special.

"The illness was an overnight surprise and at one point doctors feared my life might be over," said the City stopper.

"After a few weeks they told me it was highly unlikely I could compete at a professional level again and I would need 18 months to get back running – but I was back in the game within three months.

"It is ten years since it happened but it makes you more grateful for your successes, and seeing my wife and eldest son celebrating our win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge filled me with pride and satisfaction."

Williams is no stranger to the major one-off occasion. Two seasons ago, he captained Hibernian to the Scottish Cup final in front of a 50,000 crowd.