POOLE Town star Michael Walker is set to feature in his final game after announcing his retirement from football.

The commanding central defender is set for his last fixture in a Poole Town shirt, when he assembles a team of non-League stars to take on a Cherries XI on Wednesday in his testimonial clash at Black Gold Stadium (7.45pm).

The likes of Gareth Stewart, Steve Lovell, Warren Cummings, Shaun Cooper, Anton Robinson, Alan Connell, Brian Stock, Carl Fletcher, Mark Molesley, Josh McQuoid and James Hayter are expected to turn out for visitors in the showcase fixture.

Walker first signed for Dolphins in 2004 but has also been on the books of Dorchester, Wimborne and Weymouth.

He had been battling serious knee injuries for the past two seasons but revealed commitments away from football had been a big influence on his decision to call time on his career.

Walker told the Daily Echo: “It’s just a sensible choice now. Things have changed at Poole and my chapter has been and gone.

“I just feel that it’s my time to step away and start a new chapter.

“My family and kids are my sole focus now and it’s been quite an easy decision to make.

“My priorities are changing massively as I’m getting older and I just feel it’s the right time to give a little bit back to my family.”

The clash is set to be sponsored by Dorset Abilities Group and the Dolphins talisman is hoping to attract a bumper crowd.

“This will be my last game for Poole Town and probably my last game in football at that level,” Walker added.

“It’s going to be an enjoyable day and hopefully I can get as many people as I can to turn out.”