Barry Richardson says playing for Wycombe Wanderers in their 1-0 win over Plymouth Argyle has helped to ‘get rid of some demons’.

The 46-year-old made his first appearance since 2005 after coming on as an early substitute for an injured Alex Lynch during the win at Home Park.

That match in November 2005 saw Richardson suffer a broken leg in a 3-2 defeat against Cambridge United for Doncaster, and he spoke of the enjoyment he took form getting back on the pitch.

“It was ten years ago and I broke my leg in that game and was out for 12 months. I was a player coach. That (playing aginst Argyle) has probably got rid of a few demons,” he said.

“It felt good and I don’t think you ever lose the will to do it and the knowledge never goes away. I think the basics of goalkeeping are knowledge and experience.

“I have played pre-season games and played behind closed doors so it is not as if I haven’t played. I haven’t played competitively for 10 years though.”

He looked confident throughout and dealt with the few chances that Plymouth created against a Wanderers defence that had rediscovered its solidity after three defeats in a row.

The appearance also earned Richardson the record of being the oldest player ever to wear the Wycombe shirt.

In doing so he became the first keeper to keep a clean sheet at Home Park in League Two this season and spoke of the pride he feels in taking both accolades.

“It is bizarre, the boys in front of me were fantastic and I think we deserved the win. They are a good side and put us under pressure,” he said of the clean sheet.

“The record is brilliant one for the kids. At my age it is a great little thing to have and I am pleased with it.”

With Lynch’s hip injury set to keep him out for next Saturday’s match against Luton, Richardson would be forgiven for thinking he may be in line for a surprise start.

However, he was clear that this appearance was a one off, and echoed manager Gareth Ainsworth’s message that a new keeper would arrive at Adams Park while also offering his condolences to Alex Lynch.

“No, Luton would probably be a little bit too much. We will bring someone in, and we will bring the right person in,” he explained.

“The big disappointment is for Alex, because he has waited his time. He is a good young goalkeeper, he needs games, Matty has gone, and Alex gets the chance and gets injured. I am just really disappointed for him.”