Ben is one step from Wembley

Lisburn teenager Ben Kennedy is set for the biggest week of his football career so far as he takes to the field for Stevenage against Southend United in the League Two Play-Off semi-finals.

The 18 year-old and his Stevenage side are just one step away from the League Two Play-Off final at the world-famous stadium as they take on Southend in the semi-final this week.

Ben’s side host the first leg on Sunday at 6.35pm before travelling to Roots Hall for the second leg on Thursday (kick-off 19.45pm).

“Playing at Wembley would be another dream come true for me but we just need to focus on these next two games,” he said.

“They will definitely be the biggest games I have been involved in so far.

“Two years ago, I never could have dreamt that I would be in this situation now.”

It’s been a whirlwind year so far for the former Lisburn Youth player, who made his senior debut in January before signing his first professional contract just a few weeks later.

He’s already been a smash hit with the Stevenage support, netting four vital goals in their push for the play-offs. Another goal this week would boost his ‘fans’ favourite’ credentials even further.

“A lot of people have stopped me in the street looking for my autograph or a photo but I wouldn’t say I’m famous,” he laughed.

“I’ll just keep my feet on the ground and hopefully my career can lead upwards to bigger and better things.”

Even if Stevenage don’t secure promotion, there have been rumours that Ben could soon find himself higher up the football pyramid. He has even been linked with giants like Arsenal, Manchester City and Celtic.

“I don’t think about that,” he said. “If something happens then it’s a bonus. I’m just working hard and enjoying my football. Whoever I am playing for, I’ll just be going out to do my best for the club.

“Of course my aim is to play at the highest level. I have confidence in myself and believe that I can.”

Kennedy had been out injured last month but made his return during last weekend’s defeat to Luton, when he came off the bench and played half an hour without complication.

Now his sights are firmly on the play-offs, where he isn’t ruling out a starting spot.

He said: “I don’t know anything about the line-up just yet. Getting a start would be a bonus for me but who knows?”