A former professional footballer will be taken back in time 50 years when Port Vale and Exeter City clash again tomorrow (Saturday).

Sidmouth Herald: Retired Sidmouth footballer David McClelland, signing for Sir Stanley Matthews' Port Vale in 1967.Retired Sidmouth footballer David McClelland, signing for Sir Stanley Matthews' Port Vale in 1967. (Image: Archant)

Pensioner David McClelland scored four tickets to watch his old club when they visit St James’ Park.

Born in Newcastle, it wasn’t until he was 25 that he started playing full-time.

His big break came when he was offered a two-month trial at Port Vale, managed by footballing legend Sir Stanley Matthews.

“I can’t believe I’m 75,” said outside right David, who retired to Sidmouth in 1981 and ran the Volunteer for a decade from 1992.

“I can remember a lot about the match. I wasn’t too bad on the day – but we lost 3-1.

“I was unlucky at Port Vale. I played in a friendly and got an injury that meant I couldn’t play for six weeks. By the time I got fit again it was September and the team was fixed.

“I finished up in South Africa, a beautiful country, playing for Port Elizabeth FC.”