Lee Bowyer admits the Leeds United team he was a part of in 2001 have formed the bedrock of the identity he has crafted for Charlton Athletic.
The Addicks boss will take charge of the London club at Wembley on Sunday afternoon as they seek to set up a date with the Whites in the Championship next term.
Charlton face Sunderland in the League One play-off final after a special, first full season under Bowyer’s leadership.
Bowyer was a part of the famous United side which ran to the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2001 and included the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Mark Viduka.
“That's what I've tried to build,” he told Press Association. “I've played in a similar side to that at Leeds; we did well because we were a team.
“I've let the lads know from day one that we won't carry anyone who will play for themselves as an individual.
“The group we've put together is an exceptional and unique group, and I've said that for a long time now.
“Form is good because it puts you into a good place; our players and the football club as a whole is in a good place.
“That wasn't the case when I first took over, but now all of a sudden everyone is happy and smiling. That's from hard work.
“You must know that your friend you're playing alongside is going to help you if you're having a bad time, or if you're caught out of position.”
