FRESH from his sterling return from suspension against Chesterfield, Nathan Thompson is set to make his 100th appearance for Swindon Town as they take on MK Dons tomorrow.

While being quite a milestone for one so tender in years, those who have watched Thompson play since his debut at the County Ground in Johnstone’s Paint Trophy against Torquay in 2010 and through his growth into the commanding defender he is today, will not be surprised he has reached triple digits so rapidly.

Thompson also now bears the armband of the captain and recently signed an extension to his deal at the County Ground.

Chairman Lee Power stressed at the time how important a signature it was, the deal ensuring either a prolonged stay at the club for the 23-year-old, or fair compensation should a chance too good to turn down come his way.

In the build-up to the skipper reaching such a significant personal milestone, his manager Mark Cooper paid tribute to his on-field leader.

“I don’t want to keep singling individual players out because the whole team on the whole have performed very, very well,” he said.

“If I was to speak about Nathan I would speak more about his character.

“Off the pitch, he’s a just a proper gentleman. He is a proper professional.

“His desire to succeed in the game is incredible.

“He will walk over hot coals and broken glass to become the best he can.

“He’s an ultimate professional and he deserves everything he gets.

“Hopefully his 100th will be one that we can talk about being one of his best.”