Witton Albion set up Connor Hughes fundraiser

Hughes first joined the club in November last year and went on to score 11 goals in 13 matches, including a record-equalling four on his home debut.

At the end of January, he was subsequently handed a contract which will keep him at the club until the end of next season.

During Albion's recent clash with Macclesfield, Hughes suffered an injury which has now been confirmed as a a Grade 3 full torn ligament of the LCL and torn popliteus tendon and fractured medical bone.

The club are now asking for support to help cover Hughes' medical bills as he begins his road to recovery.

A club statement read: "Semi-professional footballers, especially those self employed outside the football world, are at risk of damaging their livelihood every time they pull on a shirt and cross the white line.

"Insurance only does so much, and so being an injured player at non-league level (even a contract player) can cause major financial issues and stress.

"Connor's more serious diagnosis meant an expensive operation and now unpaid time off work. The PFA and insurance only help out so much, so we are initially trying to raise £4,000 to cover the remaining cost of the operation (PFA kindly paid the other 50%).

"Yesterday, Connor had a successful operation and we are hopeful if his recovery goes well as soon as the splint is removed he can return to work and subsequently he could be back playing football at the start of next season."

On the fundraising appeal, manager Jon Macken said: “I'm just sending a message of support for Connor, as we know he's had an operation and needs support in payment for this.

"Connor has been tremendous since joining, on and off the pitch, and he's a big part of the clubs plans going into next season."