ONE of the few England men ever to play for Stevenage Boro is keen to show he has still got what it takes. Steve Guppy made his debut in Saturday s 3-2 home defeat by Crawley Town. He played for more than an hour before being sacrificed for goalkeeper Ala

ONE of the few England men ever to play for Stevenage Boro is keen to show he has still got what it takes.

Steve Guppy made his debut in Saturday's 3-2 home defeat by Crawley Town.

He played for more than an hour before being sacrificed for goalkeeper Alan Julian after the controversial dismissal of Danny Potter.

The 37-year-old follows the likes of full internationals Graham Roberts and Brian Stein in turning out at Broadhall Way at the end of their careers.

Guppy earned one cap for England nearly seven years ago when he played against Belgium at Sunderland's Stadium of Light. He had previously made appearances for both England under-21s and B team.

The winger, who has graced the top divisions of England and Scotland, recently trialled back at Wycombe after spending last season in America at DC United.

He said: "I was thinking about retirement when I got back from the States but I spent the summer getting fit.

"I feel as fit as I've done for well over a year now.

"I was delighted when the phone rang and Stevenage gave me this chance.

"I feel good as I worked really hard over the summer."

Guppy is no stranger to non-league circles after starting his career at then Conference outfit Wycombe Wanderers.

"I've got some very fond memories of my time playing in the Conference. And I'm under no illusions - it's going to be difficult at this level.

"The Conference is a tough league and there's little to choose between it and League Two."

He has only joined on an initial one-month's deal but this could well be extended.

"It suits me and Stevenage. I'm just pleased to be back playing.

"We will look at it after the month is up.

"I'm more interested in playing well and getting some points on the board for Stevenage."

Boro boss Mark Stimson said: "Steve gave us the balance down the left on Saturday and he stamped his authority on the game.

"He has been there and done it and should be a good addition."

Guppy rose to prominence at Wycombe and Martin O'Neill in the early 1990s.

He enjoyed fruitful spells at Port Vale and Leicester before joining O'Neill for a third time at Scottish giants Celtic.

Other clubs he spent brief stints at are Newcastle, Leeds and Stoke.

Guppy added: "I've been very fortunate in my career.

"It's a new chapter now and I'm excited to be here.

"I'm really looking forward to the challenge of being back in the Conference.