Josh Coulson to mark decade at Cambridge United with Tottenham Hotspur clash

U's centre-back ready for testimonial match

Josh Coulson is relishing the chance to celebrate a decade at Cambridge United with supporters when Tottenham Hotspur under-23s visit the Cambs Glass Stadium for his testimonial on Friday night (July 21).

The 28-year-old centre-back made his first-team debut in October 2007, against Halifax Town, and the stalwart has gone on to become a firm fans’ favourite.

Coulson is on his way back to full fitness after suffering a nasty ankle injury in November against Wycombe Wanderers, and has featured in all of the pre-season games so far.

But the one against Spurs on Friday, kick off 7.45pm, will be special for Coulson.

“The club means everything to me,” he said. “I’ve grown up here and I have never known anything different.

“It’s a huge part of my life and my family’s lives.”

Coulson had been part of the Cambridge City youth set-up, but made the switch to the U’s when the scheme was transferred.

“I didn’t imagine I’d be here for 10 years when I first joined,” said Coulson.

“At the time I was just over the moon to be at Cambridge United.

“I wasn’t even thinking about how long I’d be here.”

Coulson has been through a lot with the club, including an FA Trophy final win and three Conference play-off finals, and it was the last of these – the win against Gateshead in 2014 – that stands out.

“My highlight has to be the play-off final,” he said. “It’s a day that I hope will live with the club forever.

“It will certainly live with me forever.”

Coulson had a testimonial dinner at the club at the start of the summer, but he is now looking to celebrate with the fans at the Cambs Glass Stadium on Friday, when Spurs – who he supported as a youngster – bring their under-23s to town.

“It means the world to be able to celebrate 10 years with the club I supported as a boy and celebrate with my people is something I’m so proud of,” he said.

“The testimonial dinner was a very emotional evening but I’m sure Friday will be similar.

“It would be fantastic to see as many supporters there as possible, so that I can say thank you for their superb backing over the years.”

Cambridge United chief executive Jez George said: “The dinner that we hosted for Josh was a brilliant evening, with iconic figures from the Club’s past joining guests ranging from the club chairman, directors, staff, friends and family. The event was a sell out and everyone present was able to show their respect and affection to truly ‘one of our own’.

“This game now gives our wider fanbase the opportunity to pay tribute to such a long serving, loyal and honest player, who has represented the Club with such distinction on and off the pitch.

“We are extremely grateful to Tottenham Hotspur for their help in making this game possible.

“Make no mistake, they will have some exceptional young players and it will be a really competitive, high quality fixture.

“I would urge everyone to support Josh and give him another night to remember. He deserves it.”

Tickets are available online, in-store or by calling the ticket office on 01223 566 500 and seats cost £15 for adults, £10 for concessions and £5 for juniors, while standing tickets cost £12 for adults, £8 for concessions and £4 for juniors.

Cambridge Fans United are official match sponsors of the match.