Commercial League defenders beware. Shaun Goater is scheduled to make his North Village Rams debut against Tuff Dogs at Bernard Park this weekend.

While he may have graced emotive venues such as Old Trafford and Anfield during his illustrious career, Goater is now set to strut his stuff at the likes of White Hill and Malabar this season.

The 37-year-old plans to prevent 'ring-rust' by appearing for Rams after being invited to play for a World XI against an England XI to celebrate the Professional Football Association's Centenary Year.

Goater, who retired from professional football in May 2006, intends to improve his fitness and shed a few more pounds before the grand occasion at the City of Manchester Stadium on December 2.

A typically jovial Goater joked his Rams' bow on Saturday would rival David Beckham's world-wide televised MLS debut for LA Galaxy early this year.

"I imagine my first game at the weekend will be pretty similar to when Beckham made his debut for LA Galaxy!" he said.

"I would encourage spectators to arrive at Bernard Park early on because I think it could be a sell-out.

"Seriously, it will be good to play alongside some old friends at the Rams. Most of the guys are around 35 or over but can still play. I'll also be able to keep myself fit in the process.

"Rams don't train but I did have a run out with about ten or so of the guys last week.

"It's going to be a lot different to what I've been used to, but I'll still take it seriously. I imagine some of the Commercial League defenders will be looking forward to playing against me and I'll still be among the goals."

With football luminaries such as Roy Keane, Alan Shearer and Ruud Gullit set to appear in the PFA all-star game, the former Manchester City striker has vowed to do himself justice when he is re-united with the City faithful. He said he did not want fans thinking the 'Goat' had been overfeeding.

"The main reason for me playing is to get ready for the PFA centenary match," said Goater. "I don't want to be out of shape and want to maintain my football awareness.

"Most of the guys involved are still coaching at a professional level and so will be exposed to a higher level of football than me.

"Guys like Roy Keane will be playing and he's obviously still very fit and involved at the highest level with Sunderland."

Bermuda Hogges' president Goater could find himself up against the franchise's co-owner Paul Scope who is involved with Commercial League outfit Robin Hood. It is believed Scope had been keen on the former North Village man joining the Hood ranks.

Goater is best known for his time at Manchester City, where he scored over 100 goals between 1998 and 2003, finishing as the club's top scorer for four consecutive seasons.