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Carlos EdwardsBlues paceman Carlos Edwards sees himself emulating Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes in the Premier League.

And he puts his footballing success down to the two and a half years he spent in the Trinidad and Tobacco military.

Now 31, Edwards goes into today’s npower Championship game against Portsmouth at Fratton Park (kick-off 3pm) saying that he is playing his best football since joining Town just over 12 months ago.

“If Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes can do it at 36 and 35 so can I,” said Edwards.

“I don’t think I’ve lost an inch of pace and my batteries have been re-charged by getting married in the summer and spending time receiving the support of family and friends in Trinidad.

“I had doubts that I might just end up playing a bit part this season.

“But I pushed myself hard to get a message to the manager that I was back being the same Carlos that helped the gaffer get Sunderland promoted in 1996/97.

“I have extra belief, and I believe that is showing and I feel quite capable of dedicating myself the same as the two Manchester United stalwarts and playing in the top flight to my mid-thirties.”

Edwards was in the Trinidad militia with his new Town team mate Jason Scotland, and he reckons the striker’s shooting is much better on the football pitch.

“Jason was the worst soldier ever,” quipped Edwards.

“If he had a gun in his hand you took cover quick.

“I was a crazy little kid and joined up because the football team was one of the best on the island.

“But I hit a brick wall as I had to do military training for six months before I could play.

“But I learned discipline, respect for authority and all about reaching your breaking point.

“Without that experience I would not be here now.”

Edwards, who joined Wrexham aged 21 after he left the forces, is sure his international team mate Scotland will be a hit at Portman Road.

“Give the lad a good service and he will score the goals that we were lacking last season.

“I’ve bet him that I will score more times than him this season. He’s still thinking it over, as he knows I’m in the mood to be up for the challenge.”