New record set for oldest SPFL outfield player as former Hearts hero eclipsed after 11 years
Defender breaks record and has no plans to retire
The record for the oldest outfield player in Scottish Professional Football League history has been broken.
Montrose defender Sean Dillon set a new milestone on Saturday, August 15 when he came on in the 83rd minute of the club's 3-0 defeat by Alloa Athletic at the age of 43 years and 16 days.
The Irishman eclipsed the previous high set by former Hearts and Scotland midfielder Colin Cameron, who was aged 43 years and eight days when he played his last game for Berwick Rangers in a 4-1 defeat by Montrose in October 2015.
Dillon, who is player-coach at the League One club, has enjoyed a near 20-year career in Scotland, playing 346 times for Dundee United before amassing another 300 plus appearances for the Gable Endies since joining in 2017.
The new bar could rise higher with the centre-back revealing he has no plans to retire in the immediate future.
“I’m genuinely delighted - it’s a real honour," said Dillon. "I used to always joke with my teammates that the aim was to keep playing until I was 40 and then I’ve just kept going.
“There’s no secret to playing at this age – discipline, hard work and a good attitude goes a long way. I’ve loved my life in Scottish football and playing in the SPFL. I’ve been a good fit for the league and really enjoyed it.
“I know my playing time going forward won’t be as regular as it’s been in the past, but my plan is to keep going for as long as I enjoy it and I’ve no set date for retirement at this stage.”
Neil Doncaster, SPFL chief executive, said: “Sean Dillon’s longevity is a fantastic achievement and a testament to his professionalism and dedication to our game.
“Sean has made a significant contribution to Scottish football over nearly two decades – and to still be playing at this level at 43 is huge credit to him.
“Everyone at the SPFL sends our congratulations to Sean on reaching this milestone.”
The oldest player to feature in a Scottish senior match remains goalkeeper Stevie Dunn, who played for Elgin City aged 52 in the club’s 3-0 loss against Bonnyrigg Rose in May 2023.
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