He has branded the “Dad’s Army” tag placed on his side a disgrace but Forfar boss Dick Campbell admits the veterans in his team have shown just how much it will mean to them if they can win promotion to the Championship.
The Angus side hold the advantage going into the second leg of their play-off against Alloa having beaten the Wasps 3-1 at Station Park on Wednesday night.
As is usually the case this season, Forfar had an experienced spine with 34-year-old Chris Templeman leading the line, Derek Young (34) in midfield, Stuart Malcolm (35) and Darren Dods (39) at centre-half and Rab Douglas (43) in goal.
And Campbell senses a strong determination from the veterans to take Forfar over the finishing line and win promotion at the Indodrill Stadium on Sunday.
The manager said: “All the lads were great the other night but special mention must go to big Rab.
“He was brilliant again with some stunning saves and I am delighted that he has signed a new contract.
“I keep reading all this stuff about him and the likes of Dodsy being ‘Dad’s Army’ which is a disgrace.
“Every manager in our league and probably above would like to have Rab in their team.
“I think anyone who plays past the age of 40 deserves great credit for their professionalism.
He added: “Him and Dodsy have made it perfectly clear to the rest of the lads just how much they want to win promotion.
“They have sent out a clear message and I have no problem with that.
“That determination will be crucial at Alloa.
“Obviously we will be without the suspended Gavin Swankie which is unfortunate as he has had a fantastic season.
“However, he is the club captain and he will be there before the game.
“Luckily, we have a player of the calibre of Dale Hilson ready to come in.
“I am sure his pace will cause them problems. They will need to have a go and hopefully that will leave them a bit short at the back.
“The first goal on Sunday will be crucial and hopefully it will be us who score it.”