Duo Set For Des Walker Testimonial

Set to Perform
By Chris O'Brien
May 8 2005

Rio Ferdinand and Roy Keane look set to play some part in Des Walker's testimonial. The former England international retired from the professional game in February, and will now captain a 'Forest All Stars' side against a World XI.

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand looks set to feature in Des Walker's testimonial. The England international will play alongside some of the biggest names in world football as he represents an 'International XI' that will play the Forest All Stars XI, captained by Walker.

Ferdinand is unlikely to be the only Red Devil on show, with Roy Keane set to play for his former club alongside other Forest legends such as Stuart Pearce and Nigel Clough. The Irishman moved from the City Ground to Old Trafford in 1993, having made over 150 appearances for the club in 3 very successful years.

Des Walker, capped 59 times for England, is one of the legends of the modern British game. He retires in February 2005 at Forest, having made nearly 800 first-class appearances for three clubs. He kicked off his career with Forest, turning professional in 1983 and spent 9 great years with the ?-club, before moving to Sampdoria for £1.5million. He moved onto Sheffield Wednesday, but returned to his first club in 2002 where he ended his career.

He unexpectedly retired from professional football at the age of 39 as age began to take his toll on his fitness, but Walker is now looking to go into management.

"It will just be a great way to say goodbye to the fans because I did leave a bit abruptly this year," he said.

"My times here were fantastic and the atmosphere at the City Ground made you think there was an extra player on your team."