Nolan reveals Hoskins is playing through the pain barrier after hailing 'incredible' achievement

Hoskins, now 33 and in his 11th season at Sixfields, chalked up his 449th Cobblers appearance when he replaced Tom Eaves as a 63rd-minute substitute in Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Exeter City at St James Park.

That brings him alongside Sampson and the pair are only behind Tommy Fowler, who played 552 times between 1946 and 1961. Hoskins is also fourth on the all-time list of Cobblers goalscorers with 103. Asked about it afterwards, Nolan had only positive things to say – and also revealed Hoskins has been playing through the pain barrier in recent weeks.

"I wondered why Sammo kept telling me not to put him on! But it’s incredible,” said Nolan. “He's a tough, tough lad. He's playing with an injury at the minute. I haven't wanted to mention it because other people will find out and they might try and give him a little bit of a whack, but his work ethic and his attitude and the way he goes about everything in training and his day-to-day life is fantastic.

"You can see why he's played so many games. I was lucky enough to play over 600 times in my career and this boy is exactly what you want as a manager. You need those type of players around you and in your dressing room. I'm absolutely delighted for him and I'm sure on Tuesday he will be second outright."

Midfielder Dean Campbell was also full of praise for his team-mate’s achievement, adding: “Sam’s been a top pro from the day I walked in and the way he goes about his business every day is inspiring. He still keeps himself in such good condition – not that I’m saying he’s old! – and he looks after himself really well and he works hard every day.

"It’s an incredible achievement and he’s obviously a club legend and I have the utmost respect for him and what he’s doing and I have no doubt that he will go on and break more records at this club.”