James Harper, a legend in Reading, has made hints that he would play football at a semi-professional level even after turning forty-two.
Playing 348 games for Reading between 2001 and 2010, the center midfielder was promoted to the Championship and Premier League under the tutelage of renowned managers Alan Pardew, Steve Coppell, and Brendan Rodgers.
He played in the Football League until 2014, when he moved to the non-league circuit for ten years, playing for Sheffield United, Hull City, Wycombe Wanderers, and Doncaster Rovers.
The Arsenal youth player has recently been signed by local Berkshire teams Basingstoke Town, Hungerford Town, and Ascot United. Harper, who continues to set the bar at 42, has made hints that he would continue playing after recovering from injuries.
Speaking to BBC Berkshire, he said: “I played last season for my mate at Alresford Town. I played two games we lost 8-1 and then got beat 5-1 and only turned up with 10 men. I had the dreaded Achilles tendonitis and that kept me out. I’m just about right now. Patrick Cox, who used to play in the youth team, has messaged me. He’s over at Alton Town and said get over there, so I might try and get over there when I’m back fit again.
“I will be the last man standing. I play six-a-side on a Monday. The enthusiasm is going down a little bit, I’ve got to be honest. I love the game, but I don’t love the nonsense. The young kids’ banter is terrible. Turn up for the game, play the game and go home. I don’t enjoy the moaning and how easy it is to get yellow cards now.”
Harper, who keeps raising the bar at 42, has hinted that he intends to play again after his injuries heal.
