Versatile Rob Purdie has played in different positions in each of his two games for Darlington - and he has already earned himself a unique place in the club's history books.

When he entered the field as a second half substitute during last Saturday's win over Wrexham, Purdie's brief was to help his new club protect their lead, but in doing so he became the 1,000th player to be used by Quakers since entering the Football League in 1921/22.

At the end of last season, 993 players had represented Darlington at first team level, but the landmark swiftly came into view when manager Dave Penney handed starts to six of his summer signings last weekend.

Purdie became the seventh debutant when he entered the fray, and the record books, in the 67th minute to play in a left midfield role.

He became known for his versatility during his five years at Hereford United and the 24-year-old's adaptability has already been evident.

During Tuesday's League Cup match at Barnsley he was used as a right-back.

Purdie was used at Hereford in several different positions and although he would prefer to play in central midfield, his position while coming through the ranks at Leicester City, he is content to play wherever required.

He said: "I see myself as a midfielder. I played the first half of last season in midfield and the second at left-back.

"But most of my time at Hereford I played either left-midfield or centre-forward so make your mind up for yourself!

"Until I was 16 at Leicester I was a striker and then they signed a couple of strikers so I moved back into midfield and after that I was schooled as a centre-midfielder really.

"When I got to Hereford I moved out to the left, then up-front. It's probably my own fault. I'd never played full-back in my life until about two seasons ago after our left-back got sent off.

"Because I've got a bit of energy and a bit of pace I filled in and did well.

"Wherever I've been played I've always seemed to do well."

Purdie could be used at full-back tomorrow at Accrington Stanley, although he is eyeing a central midfield berth.

"I like to get on the ball so, obviously, midfield is my preferred position," admitted Purdie.

"We've got Kevin McBride and Ricky Ravenhill who have started the season and then we've got Micky Cummins who is quality on the ball so it might be the case that I have to go out wide to get a few games.

"I know we're a bit light on numbers on the left so maybe I could play there too. I'm right-footed but I'm comfortable on my left.''

Former skipper Clark Keltie has returned to action in a behind closed doors friendly with Leeds United.

He had a double hernia operation last month and will play for the reserves next week.