Community praised after footballer rent appeal

The manager of Kidderminster Harriers has praised a "magnificent" response from local residents after the club appealed for people to provide rooms for rent for some of its players.

The Worcestershire club, currently playing its football in the National League, sent out an appeal last week asking for those with a "comfortable bedroom with appropriate living facilities" to come forward.

Paul Wotton said it was important that his players were settled off the pitch if they were to be their best versions on the pitch.

"Signing a player isn't just about getting them on the pitch for 90 minutes, we've got a duty of care to the player, and we need to look after them," he said.

The former Plymouth Argyle player added: "The club is fantastic at that, they really look after our boys. There's been a really good response too, which is excellent."

However, he added the perfect environment would be one where his players can fully switch off.

"You don't want to be bombarded with football questions all the time. Being a football player is quite intense, so it's important they have time off from that," he explained.

"When we asked for help the response has been magnificent. It's a fantastic football club and we've got lots of people wanting to help us out."

A spokesperson for the football club said that accommodation would be needed on a "season long basis" and, as well as a rental agreement, the club would provide ongoing support throughout each agreement.

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