The Hatters were knocked out of the Emirates FA Cup at the fourth round stage by the eight-time winners, but gave a good account of themselves at Stamford Bridge despite the tough opposition.

“We knew they were going to start quick,” Clicker said. “They are a top, top side so it was about containing them a little bit and trying to be brave in possession when we had the ball because they have world class players, so it was always going to be difficult, but these are the games you want to play in.

“You want to test yourself against the best, when we got the goal back, we got a bit of confidence and I thought we got better and better and grew into the game a bit more, so it was just a shame we couldn’t get the equaliser especially in the second half.

“Everyone is disappointed in there, we’re gutted to be honest but what an experience, I’m sure it will stand us in good stead for the rest of the season.”

On the half-hour mark, the 27-year-old scored his third goal of the campaign and was proud to admit he intended to watch it a ‘few times’ when he arrived home!

“I just creeped into the box and Breezy’s has done a great cut-back, managed to get good contact on it which is the main thing and then luckily it has squirmed its way into the net.

“We needed that because obviously they had a bit of possession and got the two goals, but it gave us a bit of a lifeline, a bit of confidence because we were doing okay. We were playing well. It just gives us that bit of confidence to kick-on a little bit and push on for an equaliser."

However Clark did embrace the fact his blushes were spared after giving away a penalty, but fortunately Simon Sluga came to his aid and produced a very good stop from 12 yards.

“It was an eventful afternoon for myself! Scoring then giving a penalty away, I couldn’t believe it. That is the thing, I’ve got back and I thought I’m going to nick the ball off him but he’s so sharp and quick, he touched it away from me and I just touched his heel so I was gutted.

“I think it is the first penalty I have given away which I’m gutted about, but Slugs saved my blushes a little bit with the save. It was disappointing but just got to go again next week now, back into the league and we can focus on that.”