Carabott to equal Busuttil's caps record

David Carabott will join Carmel Busuttil as the most-capped player in local football history when he leads Malta out in tomorrow's international friendly match against Kazakhstan at the National Stadium (kick-off 6.15 p.m.).

Busuttil, one of the most prolific footballers this country has ever produced, amassed a record 114 appearances for Malta but that mark is set to be equalled by Carabott, who took over Malta's captaincy when Busuttil quit international football in 2001, in tomorrow's match against Kazakhstan.

At present, Carabott has 113 appearances and, barring any mishaps, he should set a new Maltese record for international appearances in the away EURO 2004 qualifier against France on March 29.

Carabott and Brincat, capped 101 times by Malta, are the only two active players to have earned a place in FIFA's Century club. Sliema Wanderers midfielder Brincat reached the 100-cap milestone in Malta's 2-0 home defeat to Israel.

That Carabott is on the verge of establishing another landmark in his rewarding football career is testament to his dedication and courage.

Almost a year ago to date, Carabott's career looked in jeopardy after he suffered a serious leg injury in Malta's 3-0 defeat of Moldova in the Rothmans International Tournament.

Then aged 33, Carabott's chances of making a comeback were considered very remote but the Valletta right-back, one of the fittest players in the Premier League despite his veteran age, yet again defied the odds by returning to competitive action earlier than expected.

Carabott was 19 when he made his Malta debut in a European Championship qualifier against Switzerland (1-1) in November 1987.