FOURTH out of 1205 - and still rising.

On Sunday, Kade Simpson will tick off another milestone when he plays his 313th game in the Old Dark Navy Blue.

In doing so, he will overtake Stephen Silvagni in outright fourth position on Carlton’s all-time playing list.

Much was made of Carlton’s ‘heart and soul’ becoming just the fifth Blue to notch up the 300-game milestone last year.

What did the man he’s overtaking have to say about the warrior in the No.6 guernsey?

“He’s someone who has given his all for the jumper, he’s done it each and every week for 312 games,” Silvagni said.

“One thing you know with Kade is he’ll never back down. He’s earned the respect of everyone at the football club over a long period of time, especially the supporters.

“I’m not surprised that he’s able to reach such a milestone. The way he handles himself and how he has invested in the younger playing group, he’s a credit to himself and his family.”

The playing career of the two didn’t overlap, with Silvagni playing his last game in 2001 before Simpson arrived for the 2003 season.

And while Simpson’s shift to the back half has come later in his career, he has mirrored his predecessor with his never-say-die attitude and ability to make an impact when all hope seems lost.

And that’s without mentioning that Simpson has taken over the crucial role as the incumbent long-sleeved wearer of the Navy Blue.

Now with only Craig Bradley, Bruce Doull and John Nicholls in front of him, Simpson — according to Silvagni — continues to tick off new frontiers at a club he’s represented for 17 years.

“I just think with his commitment that he’s shown, he absolutely belongs in that group with Craig, Bruce and John,” Silvagni said.

“He’s got courage, smarts and has shown he can play a number of roles over a long period of time.”

A key feature of Simpson’s time in the game has been his much-vaunted longevity.

And as he prepares for game No.313, there’ll also be another milestone of sorts: Sunday’s trip to Launceston will be his 300th game out of the last possible 306.

“I think that says it all,” Silvagni said.

“To miss six games in nearly 15 years of football is pretty extraordinary. It’s a testament to his work ethic and his professionalism.

“Hopefully we can come away from Tassie with a win for him on the weekend."