Get ready for a thrilling encounter as Liverpool faces Barnsley, and meet the Tykes duo, Adam Phillips and Vimal Yoganathan, who are set to create an unforgettable moment against their former club.
For these two midfielders, the upcoming match at Anfield on Monday could be the realization of a lifelong ambition. Yoganathan, who spent seven years at Liverpool's academy, and Phillips, with eight years under his belt, both experienced the bittersweet feeling of being released. But their love for the game and their beloved Liverpool never faded.
"I was over the moon when the draw was made," Phillips, 27, shared with BBC Sport. "I ran upstairs, screaming at my partner. I'm still a massive Liverpool fan at heart."
Phillips recalls being at the historic 4-0 Champions League victory against Barcelona in 2019, an experience that solidified his passion for the club. He's not alone; several of his teammates, including defender Josh Earl, share the same allegiance.
Yoganathan, who turns 20 on Tuesday, has already added iconic grounds like Old Trafford and Wembley to his resume. Last season, Barnsley faced Manchester United in the Carabao Cup, and Yoganathan played a pivotal role in Oldham's promotion to League Two via the play-offs at Wembley.
But here's where it gets controversial... Yoganathan made history as the first Tamil footballer to score in the EFL, netting against Doncaster Rovers in League One. His family's roots in Sri Lanka and his upbringing in North Wales make his journey even more remarkable.
"It's crazy to think that some players might never get the chance to play at these iconic venues, and I've done all three in just over a year," Yoganathan told BBC Sport.
And this is the part most people miss... Yoganathan's journey is not just about football; it's a story of resilience and breaking barriers for South Asians in the sport.
"I never imagined I'd have this platform to show that a Tamil player can make it in professional football," he added.
As the match approaches, the excitement builds. Barnsley has a proud history of victories at Anfield, with their last defeat dating back to 1959. Despite the 57-place gap between the teams, Conor Hourihane's side is confident. The players are already discussing which Liverpool shirts to swap after the game.
"We've had some friendly banter about it," Yoganathan said. "There are so many players whose shirts I'd love to have. Huge Ekitike and Virgil van Dijk would be incredible."
Phillips, however, has a personal connection to the opposition. "I went to the same school as Curtis Jones, although he's a bit younger. His or Van Dijk's shirt would be amazing. But Curtis unfollowed me on Instagram, so I might have to give him a friendly reminder on the pitch!"
Regardless of social media followings, the Barnsley team is focused on emulating the success of their Tykes heroes who knocked out Liverpool and Chelsea in the FA Cup 18 years ago.
"We're going for the win," Yoganathan declared.
"We'll give it our all and see where it takes us," Phillips added. "You can't show up without believing."
Will the Tykes duo upset their old club? Find out on Monday night as Liverpool and Barnsley face off under the lights.
