“I played for Wales against England in front of 24,000 fans and Phil Neal scored past me,” he said.

Still as opinionated as in his heyday, Everton’s record appearance holder is now based in Kent where he is assistant manager of Ryman Premier League strugglers Margate.

He works alongside ex-Wales manager Terry Yorath and the duo are on a mission to save the cash-strapped non-League side from the drop.

It’s a tough task at a club which attracts gates of around 350 but Southall is loving the challenge.

“It’s a different type of football but it’s really good fun. Terry asked me to join him after he took over as manager before Christmas. We play in blue which is a bonus and we’re having a really good go at keeping the club up.

“Whereas before lads were brought in from London on big wages now there’s no cash so it’s a case of using local young lads and trying to develop them.

“If Margate lose and Everton win it’s not a bad day, but if both clubs win it’s a great day.”

Southall enjoyed a record-breaking career in which his stunning reflexes secured his status as one of the greatest British keepers in history.

He helped Everton to win two league titles, two FA Cups and the European Cup Winners Cup but when he looks back these days it’s not the silverware which means the most to him.

“Of course the major finals and medals were great but the older I get I’m more proud of the length of time I stayed at Everton,” he added.

“At the time you don’t appreciate it because every season is always slightly different. When one finished you just started preparing for the next one.

“But I spent 17 years at the best club in the best city in the world and not many people can say that.”

NEVILLE SOUTHALL was speaking at an event organised by National Express. National Express are an Official Supporter of the FA Cup and are putting on direct services to Wembley for Everton fans this Sunday. Coaches depart Liverpool, Norton Street coach station 08:30 arriving at Wembley Stadium at 13:30. Departing 18:30. These will be delayed if there is extra-time.

For more information please visit www.nationalexpress.com/football