Cult hero Stephane Pounewatchy admitted it was special to be back at Carlisle United after nearly a quarter of a century away.

The popular French defender returned for Sunday’s legends game at Brunton Park.

Fans were delighted to see former centre-half Pounewatchy back after so long.

And the United promotion-winner says he was thrilled to be back on the pitch and playing with his former team-mates again.

News and Star: Pounewatchy in action during the reunion game (photo: Barbara Abbott)Pounewatchy in action during the reunion game (photo: Barbara Abbott) (Image: Barbara Abbott)

“It’s always a pleasure to be back after such a long time, more than 25 years,” Pounewatchy told the News & Star.

“To be recognised after so long by the people here is a very special moment.

“I was really pleased to be here.

“Looking at the pitch again, playing again with players like Steve [Hayward], Richard [Prokas], Macca [Gareth McAlindon]…we had really, really good memories together.”

News and Star: Pounewatchy takes on Karl Hawley in the reunion gamePounewatchy takes on Karl Hawley in the reunion game

Pounewatchy returned among a host of former players for the reunion game which was based around the 1994/5 and 2005/6 title-winning teams.

The enjoyable occasion saw funds raised for a former players’ fund and the 54-year-old Pounewatchy said it was an important cause.

“It’s not only about players coming back – it’s about the occasion, and the reason why we did this game,” he said.

News and Star: Pounewatchy was back at United for the first time since 1998Pounewatchy was back at United for the first time since 1998

“We have to thank all the organisers for doing this, because anything can happen to any of us and this [players’ fund] is very important.

“We have to thank the fans for participating, by buying tickets and their presence here.”

Pounewatchy said he enjoyed getting his boots back on and playing on the pitch again.

News and Star: Pounewatchy signs a shirt for United fan Wayne Abbott, left (photo: Ben Holmes)Pounewatchy signs a shirt for United fan Wayne Abbott, left (photo: Ben Holmes)

The former United Wembley hero appeared in good shape as he donned the deckchair kit and turned out for the 1994/5 side.

And when it was noted that he had got back from a corner quicker than he had during his playing days, Pounewatchy smiled and said: “I think I am getting better with age…”

READ MORE: In pictures: Carlisle United 1994/5 and 2005/6 reunion game