Former Ipswich Town fans’ favourite Fabian Wilnis cannot wait for the East Anglian play-off battle, labelling the prospect of the two games as “special”.

The charismatic ex-Town right-back, adored among the Portman Road faithful during his nine-year stay, has experience of competing in the play-offs and playing against arch-rivals Norwich City.

However, the Dutchman has never experienced the two in the same capacity – admitting that he’d love to play in the crucial upcoming encounters.

“As a footballer, these games are two of the biggest you can play in,” said Wilnis, who, following a 3-1 defeat to Norwich in 2004, famously said that the Canaries wouldn’t survive in the Premier League unless they signed 15 new players.

“They promise to be special occasions and if you’re not pumped up for these games, then you should not be a footballer, you should give up.

“For Ipswich to make the play-offs for the first time in 10 years, and to play against their fiercest rivals as well, is special.

“Both play-off and derby games are completely different to any others – the build-up and atmosphere is unbelievable, and both games are ones to look forward to after such a long wait.

“I’d like to see Ipswich beat Norwich, of course, but more importantly, I’d like to see them make the final and make it to Wembley.”