Kane Vincent-Young gained his footballing education within the walls of Tottenham Hotspur’s academy.

So it’s not exactly surprising that the teenage full-back is as excited as much as any other Colchester United player about the prospect of taking on the Premier League club in the FA Cup fourth round tomorrow.

“I had a funny feeling that we might get them when the draw was made,” said Vincent-Young, who joined Colchester in 2014 after being released by Spurs at the end of his youth scholarship.

“I’ve got massively fond memories of my time at Spurs.

“It helped me learn my craft and stood me in good stead to get to where I am now.

“But I’m a Colchester United player now and that’s where my priorities are.

“The form goes out of the window with a game like this - it’s there for everyone to enjoy and who knows what might happen.

“It’s going to be a massive game for us and it’s a welcome distraction from the league for us.”

Two players Vincent-Young knows well are Josh Onomah and Harry Winks, two talented youngsters who could feature for Spurs tomorrow.

“I played with both of them in the same Spurs academy team and I’d imagine I’ll see both of them on the day,” said the 19-year-old.

“I’m really happy for them and I’m not surprised that Josh has grasped his opportunity with both hands this season.

“Harry is one of my closest friends on and off the pitch and I’m really happy for him - both as a friend and as a professional - that he’s doing well.

“He’s a really nice kid and you could tell he was going to be a good player.”

Vincent-Young is hoping to win his place back in Colchester’s starting line-up having recovered from an Achilles injury that left him sidelined earlier in the season.

He added: “I feel like I’m over those problems now and now it’s about pushing for a place.

“I’ve spoken to the manager about it and we’re on the same page.

“I’m working hard to try and make an impression on him - he’s been really good and you know that his door is always open.”