If the Carling Cup ever needed an ambassador then West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Ben Foster would be a prime candidate.

The 28-year-old, on loan from Birmingham City, has been involved in the last three finals, being in the winning team or squad on each occasion.

Foster is unlikely to play in Tuesday night's game at Bournemouth, with manager Roy Hodgson expected to give Marton Fulop a run-out.

But he is definitely a fan of the competition and he claims that last season’s victory for Blues against Arsenal was one of his career highlights.

He also played for Manchester United in the 2009 final, when he used an iPod before the penalty shoot-out to help him predict where Jamie O’Hara would place his spot-kick, which he saved.

Twelve months later he was an unused substitute in United’s victory against Villa and Foster sees no reason why Albion can’t go on a cup run themselves.

“That day with Birmingham was something I’ll never forget,” he said.

“And to do something similar with Albion would be incredible.

“I’ve been in the Carling Cup final for the last three years so it’s a competition that probably means more to me than most players.

“The sense of achievement, the day itself, the occasion, the noise from the fans, it never leaves you.

“What really hit me was before we got to Wembley last year we didn’t see many fans.

“But as soon as we reached the stadium and went out for the warm-up all the Blues fans were already there.

“It was just a sea of blue. Most of the Arsenal fans hadn’t yet taken their seats.

‘‘It was all Birmingham that day and it’s not just winning a trophy but the fact that it’s a passport into Europe.

“I’m sure that despite what’s happened over the last few months, the Blues fans will be enjoying the fact their team are playing in a European competition.

“Win the Carling Cup final and you come away with a trophy and medal, which is something no-one can ever take off you.

“We know it’s not our main aim but getting a trophy is something all clubs want to aim for.

“The fact that the bigger teams put out weakened sides does lessen it to some degree.

“But for Blues to win it last season was miraculous. There’s no reason why we couldn’t do so ourselves.”

Foster has enjoyed his first few weeks at the club, adding: “It’s well organised and well run and the manager and coaching staff have been top-class with me.”