One-club Muscat sets Maltese mark

Mario Muscat described himself as "honoured to have done this with only one club – my beloved Hibernians FC" after making his record-breaking 485th Maltese Premier League appearance.

Muscat passed David Camilleri's figure earlier this month, the latest achievement in a career of astonishing longevity. While Camilleri racked up his top-flight games with a total of six employers, Muscat has done so with just Hibernians – a genuine one-club man in every sense – over the course of 21 seasons.

"I'm very honoured to have reached this illustrious target," said Muscat, 37. "Making more appearances than any other player in Malta's top flight is far from easy. Moreover, I am honoured to have done it with only one club."

Capped 68 times by his country up until 2009, Muscat's CV speaks for itself: four league titles, five Maltese Cups and the Maltese player of the year award in 1997/98 – one of only two keepers ever to be bestowed with that accolade. Still first choice for his club side, Muscat looks sure to get to 500 matches sooner rather than later.

His Hibernians and international team-mate Clayton Failla added: "Mario has created history in Maltese football. He has won all the honours the local game can offer and is a clear example to any youngsters wishing to become professional footballers. He is a true pro and, in my view, still one of the best goalkeepers in the Maltese top division, despite his age."