Jamie Vermiglio joined Telford from Scarborough (James Baylis)
Telford midfielder Jamie Vermiglio defied medical advice to play in the 1-0 FA Trophy quarter final replay win at Southport with a broken back.
Specialists warn that he risks serious injury if he continues playing, after being diagnosed with a stress fracture of his spine and a slipped disc.
"They said I can't play any more. But I want to keep playing for as long as I can," he told BBC Radio Shropshire.
Vermiglio had to sign a disclaimer prior to Tuesday's win at Haig Avenue.
Having got through to the two-legged semi-finals, in which they will play York City in March, Vermiglio admits that the chance of playing at Wembley is keeping him going.
"It's everyone's dream to play at Wembley," said the 26-year-old teacher, who joined Telford from Scarborough in May 2007.
"I've not given up hope of playing there.
"That's what I want to do even if it's a cameo appearance, but it's not just that. I want to be playing until 40.
"Although Wembley is a stage which would be ideal for me to play my last game, I don't want it to be my last game.
"I want to play on and win the league."
Ironically, Vermiglio only played the first 45 minutes at Haig Avenue, thanks to Lee Vaughan's red card just before the break.
Vermiglio was the one to make way for Indy Khela as manager Rob Smith made a tactical change.
He is now due to see another specialist to get a second opinion before deciding what his next step will be.
Bookmark with:
What are these?