DOZENS of players who wore a Tranmere shirt over the last half century will be taking another bow at Prenton Park this weekend.

But none of the heroes from yesteryear, returning for the club's 125th anniversary celebrations, can claim to have scored a goal more valuable to the Rovers cause than the one Chris Malkin struck at Wembley 18 years ago.

Malkin's extra time winner in the 1991 play-off final against Bolton Wanderers booked Tranmere's ticket to a nine-year residence in the division now known as the Championship.

The team built by Johnny King and bankrolled by chairman Peter Johnson went on to hammer on the door of the Premier League, reaching the play-offs three years in a row.

Malkin continued to play a prominent role in those heady days, so he is understandably excited about taking part in the parade of former players that will precede the League One fixture against Swindon Town on Saturday.

"Tranmere is a very special club for me and I am really looking forward to coming back to Prenton Park," said Malkin, who played more than 300 games for Tranmere between 1987 and 1994.

"I have so many great memories of this place. The people I used to play with and the staff were brilliant. It was my best time in football."

Malkin added: "The play-off final is my favourite memory. I had a lot of injuries that season so to get the goal that got us promoted meant a lot to me and a lot to the Wirral."

Malkin moved on to the medical side of the game after finishing his playing career and currently works as a physiotherapist with Aston Villa's youth academy.

He made an unscheduled visit to Prenton Park earlier this month, helping out with the match day "magic sponge" duties as Rovers long serving physio Les Parry began his spell as caretaker manager in the game against Stockport County on October 12.

Rovers are hoping star performers from the past such as George Yardley, Ian St. John, Steve Peplow, Steve Mungall, Jim Steel, Kenny Irons and many more will be joining the parade.

Many who played for Tranmere in more recent years will be unable to attend because they are still working in the game as players, coaches and managers.

The parade of former players is due to start around 2.30pm and Tranmere officials advise fans to arrive early to enjoy the festivities.

Rovers are marking the anniversary by reducing admission prices. Adults will pay £12.50 and juniors just £1.25 in the Main Stand, Paddocks, Johnny King and Kop stands – provided they purchase advance tickets before 1pm on match day.

Chief executive Mick Horton said: “We’re very proud to be celebrating our 125th anniversary at the Swindon game and want as much support as possible."

The club is also planning a special souvenir programme and a special version of the half-time challenge, The R Factor, featuring some former crowd favourites.