Jimmy Walker set to break Walsall FC appearance record

Colin Harrison today paid tribute to Jimmy Walker and insisted the Walsall goalkeeper deserves to break his appearance record.

The Saddlers legend – who played 529 times for the club – even believes Walker could go on to smash the 600 barrier if he stays fit.

Walker will become the Saddlers' outright record appearance holder at Brentford tomorrow, if selected, with his 530th game.

And Harrison, who played most of his games at full-back, said the 38-year-old has earned the right to make his mark in Walsall's history.

"He deserves it, there aren't many players who play 530 games and he's played at other places too," said Harrison, who made his Walsall debut in a 0-0 draw at Southend in 1964.

"It's a good achievement for him. I'll be sad to see the record broken but that's what happens to them. It's been about 30 years since I did it and I can remember it was a good feeling.

"If Jimmy keeps fit he could carry on. Brad Friedel is about 40 and he's still going. Without any injuries he could maybe get past 600. The way he's going he could play another 100 games.

"And really I can't see anyone who would beat that, certainly not an outfield player."

Walker joined the Saddlers in 1993 from Notts County and left for West Ham in 2004 before returning in 2010 after a brief spell at Tottenham.

Only Harrison, Walker, Nick Atthey and Colin Taylor have made over 500 appearances for the Saddlers. And Harrison, who works opposite the Banks's Stadium for joiners Stairways, insisted fans have a special connection with players who have poured their hearts into the club.

"When I leave work I see people at the kiosks getting their tickets. They make the journeys and you never think about that as a player," said the 65-year-old, whose last Saddlers game was a 1-1 draw with Chesterfield in 1981.

"They are the ones queuing and some find it hard to come, for whatever reason, but they do, because they want to see you play. I'm out at 6.15am and don't get back until late and if people are doing that and then coming to the games, I appreciate that."

By Nick Mashiter