Having lifted his eighth league title winners' medal last weekend, the 37-year-old from Lisburn is as hungry as ever to win more trophies and titles with his beloved Blues.
On Saturday he will play his 940th game and who would bet against him reaching that magical 1000 landmark.

"I don't know about the 1000, but I am determined to keep on playing for as long as I can," said Noel. "I have been lucky steering clear of major injuries so hopefully that will continue. I now have eight league titles and four Irish Cup winners' medals, but you never tire of winning. It is a fantastic feeling." He may be a veteran by age, but on the pitch Noel has lost none of his skills and vision.

The captain is looking forward to another day of celebration, but he knows it could all come down to who has the luck on the day. "It will be a lot closer than some might think," says Noel. "Coleraine will be very hard to beat in this situation. Everyone points to the threat of Stephen Carson, but they have other players who can hurt you like Jodie Tolan, David Patton and Tommy McCallion. Last year we were expected to see off Dungannon with ease - as it turned out we needed two penalty saves by Alan Mannus to brink us back from the brink.

"The first goal will be vital, hopefully we can get our noses in front and go on to lift the trophy." The captain admitted the huge Linfield support can play a key role. "Our fans are fantastic, they will be out in force again and hopefully we can send them home smiling like last week."
David Jeffrey said:"I have watched Noel grow and mature, I feel he is a better player now than when he was younger. I don't think Noel will be hangning up the boots for some time yet."