That may not seem such a remarkable statistic until, that is, you examine the full-back's past record.

The 25-year-old was sent-off three times for Leigh RMI last season and booked three times earlier this season for Stalybridge. But it was an incident seven years ago which brought Anderson real notoriety.

As a young up-and-coming defender for Bury in the First Division a crunching challenge on Andy Sinton, playing for QPR at the time, resulted in a week of analysis on Sky Sports and an official enquiry by the FA.

Sinton was sidelined with injury as a result of the challenge but went on to resurrect his career in the Premiership with Tottenham.

Anderson himself recollects: "I was only young and the manager gave me plenty of support but I think I was a bit of a marked man after that.

"The PFA looked into it but took no action. To be honest, I think he made a meal of it but then that is becoming more and more common."

After six years at Bury, five as a pro, Anderson left to join Bolton. But within six months he had left to join John King at Altrincham.

"The move was right for me at the time. I was offered a job and it meant I was earning more playing part-time at Altrincham and working full-time than if I had stayed professional."

After spells with Southport, Doncaster, Leigh and Stalybridge, the defender is finally settled at Wincham Park.

He added: "I'm really enjoying my football now. It was all too serious in the league."

As for Witton's prospects: "The players were only really made aware of the club's predicament two weeks ago. It does seem pretty bad but it's ridiculous that a club which is as well run as this one is threatened with being put out of business.

"I would love to stay here next season, provided the club is still going strong. The team plays good football and the pitch is excellent. I had the choice to go to Altrincham but chose Witton because I was impressed by John Bond and the club."

As for his disciplinary record, he said: "Obviously I'm pleased I haven't been cautioned, but I'm not any less committed. I have never been a niggly, aggressive player, I have just tended to be booked for mis-timed tackles in the past."

Of the future he concluded: "Eddie (Bishop) is doing a good job. He is on his own and it was a bit of a shock Rob (Brown) leaving but things are going well."

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.