Bermudian buzz at Wembley on eve of cup final

Nahki Wells fan Sharla Bean believes the striker has boosted national pride for Bermudians living in London.

Ms Bean, 25, is from Happy Valley Road, Pembroke, but now calls Kentish Town her home, where she lives with five-year-old daughter, Amiya Bean.

Ms Bean, who was heavily involved with Chewstick until moving to the UK in 2009, met the Bermuda Sun at Wembley Stadium 24 hours before front man Wells plays for Bradford against Swansea in the Capital One Cup final (kick-off noon Bermuda time).

She says it was amazing to finally have something to brag about to her English friends.

She said: “It’s great that in a country where football has a real international league, he is recognized. That is something to be proud of, especially as he is skilful and talented at what he does and he is realizing his dream.”

University student Ms Bean, whose sister Deidra, 27, works for Chewstick, will be cheering on her compatriot Wells tomorrow.

“It’s nice to see someone better themselves and I think it’s fantastic for Bermuda and I know back home it is a big deal. It’s fantastic.

 “Being the size we are it’s hard to find someone on an international stage doing something so well — and everyone knows about the football.

 “I don’t know his family but I hope he stays grounded and remembers where he is from.”

The home of football yesterday had a freezing air of anticipation as fans from both sides came to get a first look at the stage for tomorrow’s final.

Among them was Armaani Khan, who was eager to get snap of the stadium. Originally from Bradford, he’s lived in London for 10 years.

He said: “Whatever happens tomorrow, Nahki and Bradford have already made history. If it’s close, like I hope it will be, I think we will do it 2-1.

Alfie Priestly, 8, couldn’t get enough of Wembley and stocked up on official merchandise before posing with a Nahki Wells mask.

The youngster was in no doubt what lays in store tomorrow: “Nahki’s going to do it for us. Him and [James] Hanson will both score.”

Jake Exley, 8, and his brother Liam, 11, from Bradford, confirmed they were members of the Wells fan club.

“We’re big fans,” said Liam. “We hope he scores a hat-trick.”