CARLTON vice-captain Sam Docherty says Kade Simpson is one of the legends of the game. 

Docherty spoke with SEN 1116 this week about his teammate’s 300-game milestone, which he will reach in Saturday's game against Port Adelaide.

“The people that he is joining, everyone would say are Carlton royalty and AFL royalty, but in my opinion, I think he stacks up with them. He does deserve to be up there with the biggest legends of our club,” Docherty said.

“His professionalism and passion for the Carlton footy club has been undeniable for 10-15 years.

“It’s a magnificent effort for a guy that has not only stayed in footy and lasted this long, but to have also played such a high level and keep improving, it just shows the character and the professionalism that he has."

The Blues’ defender, who came to Carlton from Brisbane at the end of the 2013 season, says Simpson has been an important part of his own development as a player.

“He is probably one of the main guys, when I came to the club, that I really tried to follow and tried to turn myself into,” Docherty said.

“I’ve been able to play with him for a few years now and see his game on a deeper level and understand the way he goes about it.”

Docherty, who is sidelined for the season with an ACL injury, said he had hopes of pulling on the navy blue with ‘Simmo’ again next year.

“It’s been an unbelievable career and hopefully he has still got a few more years yet. I wouldn’t mind playing a few more games with him when I get back,” he said.

“I’m a bit shattered that I’m not out there this week. I have very fond memories of his 250^th when we got up.

“If he gets to the end of the year and his body is feeling good and he feels that he can go around again, and it fits in with where the club is sitting, it will happen from there.

“I personally hope he plays on. He’s a pivotal part of our group and our leadership team and also our game plan that he plays so well."

Simpson will reach the milestone in this Saturday’s game at the MCG against Port Adelaide, with all the action kicking off from 1.45pm.