Wigan Athletic striker Arouna Kone is looking forward to his clash with Manchester City's Yaya Toure in today's FA Cup final.

City talisman Toure has been cleared to play in today's final after being doubtful because of muscle fatigue.

Kone, 29, said: "I've known Yaya since the Under-19 team. We've always been close friends because we're the only two that made it through to senior level.

"It has been quite a journey and there is a special bond. Whatever happens at Wembley, that will survive.

"But that doesn't mean we won't still try to wind each other up. He held a party for his son's birthday last week and the banter started there.

"I told him they had beaten us twice in the league, so it was our turn to win this time."