Archie Thompson buzzing to be part of FFA Cup with Murray United

The 40-year-old featured in Murray's opening cup victory against Sebastopol Vikings last month and is thrilled to be part of the squad.

Thompson is hoping to see a big crowd.

"I think this competition is amazing," Thompson said.

"I've said it many times, it's the best thing FFA has done as it provides the grassroots clubs with an opportunity to play the bigger clubs.

"It also puts the young talent on show that the bigger clubs mightn't have the opportunity of seeing.

"When the young kids get the opportunity, they should really play out of their skin, because you never know who's watching."

Thompson won the second edition of the tournament with Melbourne Victory in 2015, but enjoys the underdog stories.

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"It's a buzz and I get more excitement playing in this competition than I do playing in the league," he said.

"I've been fortunate enough to win the competition with Victory and the cup has become a lot more serious than when it first started.

"Regional clubs and local clubs are also taking it more seriously because they know they can get exposure.

"There's some great stories to come out of it.

"You look at the guys that have been plucked from it, there's (Jordan) Murray from Central Coast, (Elvis) Kamsoba has slotted into the A-League with Victory from Avondale and Kenny Athiu from Heidelberg - it all started from this competition.

"You play possibly two games and you're a chance of getting on the TV.

Murray coach Elliot Jones took a young squad into the last FFA Cup clash and is set to do the same against Bulleen.

Jordan Hore made his first senior start in that game.

With the A-League season drawing to a close in the next fortnight and his media commitments with Fox Sports less demanding, Thompson wants to make himself available for Murray on a more regular basis.

"I don't want to feel like a part-timer, I want to put the energy into getting myself fit and contributing more," he said.

Kick-off is 7pm and spectator entry is free.

"Our club strategy is to engage as much of the community as possible," Murray corporate director Pedro Afonso said.

"It's working really well."