Stars dust off their boots for Isabella
A host of football favourites are set to lace up their boots at a charity match being held to raise funds for a little girl battling cancer.
Brave Isabella Lyttle is currently fighting cancer for a fourth time after initially being diagnosed with Neuroblastoma in 2010.
The 10-year-old, who is from Walsall and supports the Saddlers, is currently fundraising for pioneering treatment in New York which could cost in excess of £155,000
And now a host of Midlands footballing legends have vowed to help out by taking part in a one-off match on Sunday.
It is taking place at Boldmere St Michael’s Football Club, in Church Road, Sutton Coldfield and will kick off at 2.30pm.
Lee Hendrie, Richard Sneekes, Daryl Burgess, David Busst, Craig Pead, John Williams, Brian Small and Gordan Cowans are just some of the names that will be part of a Midlands Legends XI.
And they will play against a team made up of employees from ERF Electrical Wholesalers in Cannock and local side Shelfield Veterans.
The legends team has been put together by Walsall favourite Chris Marsh who played more than 450 games for the Saddlers between 1988 and 2001.
The 48-year-old has organised charity games in the past but had taken a step back from putting on such events after suffering a brain haemorrhage in 2016.
But he said he had to get involved after hearing Isabella’s story.
“Isabella is a real inspiration,” Marsh said.
“I had stopped organising legends matches but when I was asked to organise this game I couldn’t say no.
“Isabella is a Walsall fan. She has been incredibly brave and I wanted to help.
“There has been a fate, sponsored walks and people taking part in sponsored marathons for her in the past.
“But nobody has put on a charity football match and I’m delighted because we have got some great players who are dusting off their boots to play.
“Former Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie will be there as will ex-Albion star Richard Sneekes. The majority of teams from the Midlands will be represented.
“And they will play a team made up of staff from ERF Cannock and players from Shelfield Veterans.
“ERF have been great with me since I had my brain haemorrhage, particularly Andy Harper who really wanted to help Isabella.
“Alongside the football we have got lots of family friendly entertainment including a bouncy castle and an ice-cream van.
“The weather should be great so come along; you’ll have a great day and will be doing your bit to help a very special little girl.”
Entry to the match costs £3 for adults and £1 for children.
There will also be a raffle with a television, X-box and signed Michael Owen shirt amongst the prizes.
People wanting to help Isabella can also donate £5 by texting ISLY88 £5 to 70070.
