Squad support Boot the Virus campaign

The initiative, which looks to bring together the football community, has been set up by two Preston North End fans to raise crucial funds for the incredible work being done by NHS staff across the country.

The couple are asking professional footballers up and down the country to donate a pair of signed matchday boots, which will then be auctioned online. Fans will be able to bid and help raise money that will be sent directly to the NHS as a result.

AFC Bournemouth is pleased to announce that the first team squad members will donate a pair of boots, becoming the first Premier League team to have all players make the commitment. 

Kenny Marland and his partner Joanne are behind the campaign, with Kenny currently undergoing chemotherapy in his fourth battle against cancer. Speaking about the campaign, he said: “I have a personal affinity with the NHS heroes due to my vulnerable situation, I am frustrated at having to stay at home when I would rather be volunteering to help the wonderful people at the NHS.

“I was pondering how I could combine my passion for football and help out, then the idea of Boot the Virus came to me in a chat with Joanne. So, we are asking professional footballers and retired professionals from all the leagues in England to donate a pair of their signed matchday boots.

"I know times are difficult right now, but the plan is for all donated items to go to an online auction via our website, giving fans the opportunity to own a piece of sporting memorabilia with 100 per cent of the monies raised going directly to the NHS. If it helps the heroes in the NHS and brings some joy to football fans by owning such an item, then that’s brilliant.”

The auction will go live here on Friday 1^st May and is set to finish at 3pm on Monday 25^th May.

For more information, please visit bootthevirus.com or email any queries to [email protected].