Rebels coach hopes to play Santa

FC United of Manchester first team coach Chuks Akuneto is hoping generous fans will help him collect old kit and equipment to deliver to impoverished children in Nigeria in time for Christmas.

The Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division’s coach is visiting Lagos in a few weeks time and has been appealing supporters to bring along donations to their clash with Rushall Olympic at Gigg Lane on Saturday.

He said: "Please look out for any old football gear that may be going spare, especially boots and trainers. All kit, shin guards, and training equipment, will be gratefully accepted."

The Rebels say that any surplus items their coach can’t deliver himself will be donated to Kit Aid, the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League’s charity partner this season.

FC United were made one Kit Aid’s Ambassador clubs for their work in supporting the charity which collects old kit to distribute to less fortunate young footballers around the world.