THE Lee family haven’t had much to cheer when it comes to cup final appearances. Now, son Olly hopes he can eclipse dad Rob and change the record.
The Hearts midfielder has heard all about the runs which took Newcastle United to the FA Cup finals in 1998 and 1999 but the medals his old man has aren’t the ones he wanted to collect.
The Magpies would lose to Arsenal and Manchester United in successive seasons at Wembley.
But there could finally be a reason to celebrate at Hampden as Lee Jnr looks to inspire Hearts to glory against Celtic.
Lee said: “It is everything and the reason that I came up here. I said I wanted to play in big games.
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“We have had two semi-finals now and we have a final to come. With all respect, I wouldn’t have had games like this down south. I am so excited for the end of May and it will be a great occasion.
“I have seen my dad lose twice in the FA Cup final so hopefully I can go one better. It would mean the world to me, it would be brilliant to do that.
“I think I was at both. I can only remember the second one better. They were unfortunate occasions for the old man and he doesn’t have as fond memories. Hopefully I can have some better ones.
“He never stops going on about them! He speaks more about the semi-finals. When it comes to the finals, he says they didn’t quite turn up on the day. Hopefully that won’t happen to us and we will turn up and put in a great performance.
“He is quite laid back with it. I am 27-years-old now and while I might not have played in games as big as this, I know my game and what I can bring to the team.
“It is just play the game, play your natural game and we will be alright.
“It will be brilliant, I think there will be a full bus load come up for the final. It will be a great occasion for everyone and it is one we are really looking forward to.”
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Lee produced a solid midfield showing on Saturday as Hearts overcame Inverness Caledonian Thistle to book their place in the Hampden showpiece.
Now he could end his first campaign north of the border with a prize to show for his efforts.
Lee said: “I didn’t score but I was desperate to score. If you can’t get a goal, you want to be involved in all three and I am pleased with how it went today.
“Personally, the first half wasn’t my greatest half of football. I really wanted to come out and grab the game by the scruff of the neck.
“I had a good shot, the keeper has pulled off a good save and thankfully for me we went on to get the win. It was a great experience.”
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