Testimonial for cult defender

The Scholars say they will be honouring the club legend on Sunday 18 September after receiving official confirmation from the Staffordshire Football Association that a testimonial had been granted to celebrate Slater’s loyalty.

Slater, who arrived from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2003 before helping Chasetown twice make historic FA Cup runs, left the EVO-STIK NPL First Division South club in April having made a total of 545 appearances to beat Andy Cox’s previous record of 535.

The 32-year-old, who broke the all-time appearance record at home to Shaw Lane Aquaforce last season to achieve cult status, has gratefully accepted the offer to take to the field one more time in Scholars colours.

He said: “It means a great deal. I think the world of this football club, the likes of Mick, Charlie and all of the people behind the scenes. As for the support and what they have given myself and the teams over the years, they has been immense really. I could not ask for anymore.

“It’s a family club and that’s what has gripped me over the years. People wanting you there, it’s a good club and its run the right way. On a personal note, it’s a special club to me and they don’t have that many testimonials very often - so that makes it a bit more of an honour that not many players have done it.”

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