David James is set to break the Premier League's appearances record against Manchester City tomorrow.

Portsmouth goalkeeper James, 38, will surpass Gary Speed's milestone of 535 games in football's top flight when he runs out at Fratton Park.

With all the chaos going on down on the South Coast following the sacking of Tony Adams and the slide towards the relegation zone, it is a feat which has slipped under the radar.

It is 17 years since James first played in the Premier League and he has had the record in his sights all season.

James said: "The record means a hell of a lot to me.

"Every time Gary Speed has pulled on a shirt in recent seasons the lads have given me a bit of stick, saying: 'You'll have to go for another game... and another one'. It's the same when Ryan Giggs plays.

"I have been there from the first Premiership game and the first live Sky game, which I think was Liverpool against Forest in 1992.

"As things stand, I have another couple of years with Portsmouth and I hope to go on as long as I can.

"I am playing in the best domestic league in the world, so if you can play in it for 15 or 16 years, that must say something.

"When I signed for Pompey, I was looking at Championship options as well.

"Portsmouth gave me the opportunity to be in the Premier League and that's why I'm still playing for England, too."