Weir hoping to join list of World Cup 40-somethings

Published on Thursday 9 October 2008 09:59

SCOTLAND defender David Weir is looking to celebrate his 40th birthday preparing for the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa.

The Rangers defender, 38, has become something of a fire- fighter for Scotland boss George Burley, coming into the squad for emergencies such as Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Norway at Hampden.

Weir is set to partner Celtic defender Gary Caldwell in the absence of his Hoops team-mate Stephen McManus, who is suspended after being sent off against Iceland in Reykjavik last month.

The former Hearts and Everton defender is happy enough with his role under Burley but is still hoping to join the list of 40-somethings such as Italy keeper Dino Zoff, England keeper Peter Shilton and Cameroon striker Roger Milla who have appeared in the World Cup finals. Asked if he could see himself still playing at 40, Weir replied: "I don't see why not. The 2010 World Cup would be a great target, of course, I would love that but why put barriers up or have an end point?

"I have always said I will play as long as I can and I'll make myself available for as long as I can.

"As long as someone keeps picking me, I'll keep turning up. I'm enjoying it, even if people keep telling me how old I am and how I don't have long left."