Karacan came within an inch of equalising when he fired against the woodwork as Reading went on to lose 4-2 to Brendan Rodgers’ side.

Royals’ skipper admits it was a bittersweet moment to represent Reading at Wembley and he wants to use that feeling as a source of inspiration in Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final.

He said: “I want to go back there on the day and put that right. It was strange against Swansea. We went 3-0 down inside half an hour and although we tried to claw it back, it just wasn’t enough.

“They came flying out of the blocks and a couple of mistakes cost us. They were ruthless on the day and it was an uphill battle from half-time onwards.

“We got a couple of goals back and then I hit the post which will always stick with me. It was just one of those things.

“It was an incredible day and one of the best occasions I’ve had in football, but my memory always comes back to the disappointing result. There are mixed memories at Wembley but hopefully we can go back there and make amends.

“It’s a massive day and any chance you get to go to Wembley is a huge occasion. The boys are really looking forward to it.”

One of Karacan’s favourite memories from the day is the noise created by 30,000 Reading fans, and he hopes to experience that again on Saturday.

The Royals faithful will no doubt create a feverish atmosphere to match the one that pushed Reading past Bradford at Madejski Stadium.

Karacan’s playing time has been limited, making only two starts this season since his return from a serious knee injury .

He accepts that it’s tough to expect a starting spot after a long time out, but with Danny Williams and Nathaniel Chalobah struggling for fitness, Karacan is hopeful of getting the opportunity to play a part in helping Reading reach their first ever FA Cup final.

He said. “I want to play every game and there’s good competition but it’s up to the manager. It’s going to be a tough game against a great side but it’s a one-off occasion and anything can happen.

“There have been shocks this season so there’s no reason there can’t be one here. Fingers crossed if we can keep it tight, be solid and show our quality then we have a chance of getting something from game.”

He continued: “There will be 30,000 Reading fans cheering us on. Last time we played at Wembley the noise was unbelievable, it was frightening how loud it was when you were on the pitch. It’s something I want to experience again.

“It’s crazy how much the fans can help us when we’re down in the dumps and you hear them roar.

“It’s been tough times at Reading in the last few years so it’s about time we step up on the pitch and give something to cheer about. We owe them something.”