13 Facts About Ian Roper

Ian Robert Roper was born on 20 June 1977 and is an English former footballer who played as a defender.

Ian Roper made over 300 appearances in the Football League for Walsall between 1995 and 2008.

Ian Roper was an important member of the back-line who did well to get his Saddlers' career back on track after falling out of favour for a spell under former boss Ray Graydon, which saw him placed on the transfer list.

Ian Roper returned to the side in early February 2005 and was back to his solid best with some commanding displays in the heart of the back-line.

Ian Roper joined Luton Town on a free transfer in August 2008.

Ian Roper's no-nonsense defending and important goals soon turned him into a fan favourite.

On 30 July 2009, Ian Roper signed for Conference Premier side Kettering Town on a free transfer.

Ian Roper scored his first goal for the club against Leeds United in the FA Cup and followed this up with a neat finish against Grays Athletic in the league.

In May 2010, Ian Roper signed a new two-year contract with the club.

Ian Roper however decided a week later that he did not want to continue his playing career in the Conference, and asked for his Tamworth contract to be cancelled, as he wished to continue his playing career at a lower level.

Ian Roper agreed to drop down three levels to join Southern Football League side Bedworth United in August 2011.

Bedworth United manager Steve Farmer said Ian Roper was drawn in by the clubs ambitions and described it as a major "coup" to get someone of his experience.

Ian Roper joined having played in the club's three previous friendlies, and will have a major influence on the younger players at the club, said Farmer.