FROM cleaning Graeme Murty’s boots to chasing global superstar Alexis Sanchez down the wing, Reading born Dan Spence has opened up about his unforgettable FA Cup venture with non-league Sutton United.

Spence, a part-time teaching assistant at a special educational needs school in Tilehurst, featured in Monday’s mouthwatering televised clash with Premier League giants Arsenal FC.

And while the non-league minnows lost the fifth-round clash 2-0, they put in a valiant performance against Arsene Wenger’s star-studded Gunners.

Spence, 27, came through the youth ranks at Reading FC before he was released in 2009. However, he refused to give up on his passion, and believes he can still make the step up to professional level.

The full-back came off the bench for the last 20 minutes against the Gunners, having helped Sutton knock League One AFC Wimbledon and Championship side Leeds United out of the competition during their iconic run.

“To be a part of that game against one of the top teams in England for decades was an amazing experience,” said Spence.

“Making it to the fifth round shows what the club has been through, it’s always good to get more exposure and more fans down to the ground.

“The fans love it, we get to see them after the games and we all try to keep them going and thank them for their support.”

After being released from the Royals’ Academy in 2009, he travelled to Spain to be a part of former England boss Glen Hoddle’s academy set-up, before enjoying spells with clubs like Woking Town and Mansfield.

Spence, who still maintains strong bonds with his former Royals team-mates including ex-goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, added: “I didn’t consider giving up.

“I’ve only known football throughout my life, even when I was young I only wanted to be a footballer. I always knew that I might have to have another job or think of another career.

“I have been working at Brookfields School for five years on and off which I really enjoy, that’s something I would like to take further at some point.

“They let me take control of PE based lessons and there’s loads of children who love football. They want to hear what you say and learn some skills.

“The last couple of months I’ve been working with 15 or 16 year olds, they love hearing about the different players you come up against.”

Spence revealed one of the biggest influences in his career was former Reading FC captain Murty, who is currently interim manager at Scottish Premier League side Rangers FC.

“The few years I was in and around the first team at Reading it was when they were first in the Premier League, there were some amazing players around,” he added.

“I was mentored by Graeme Murty who was a legend at the club, I used to clean his boots.

“Football is still my first job but I’m lucky with the school that I can come in as often as I can.

“I would like to think I can play at a higher level, I’m 27 now so in terms of football I will probably hit my peak within the next year or so.”

“You can never give up, you always have to be confident and believe in yourself but I feel if I stay injury free and keep performing well I think I have a good chance of progressing.”

Reading Chronicle:

Dan Spence used to scrub Reading FC legend Graeme Murty's boots.

Spence also spoke about former team-mate Wayne Shaw, who was also a part of the Royals’ academy.

The goalkeeper tendered his resignation shortly after the FA Cup clash after he ate a pie while sitting on the bench, sparking a betting probe.

“It’s all been a bit of a whirlwind,” said Spence.

“Wayne Shaw is a good character around the club, he’s always up for a laugh.

“It’s all been dealt with internally so I’m sure we’ll find out what’s gone on in the next few days but it’s a shame because he’s a nice guy.”