So.. how do I know Tom? How does anyone at United know Tom? It is usually the same way, and it is by falling into his company and hearing glorious tales of old, perhaps attending one of his end of season dinners that he works tirelessly each year to put together, however, like many others, I have been fortunate to know him deeper than that and to know him as a friend.

When I was out in Sierra Leone, Tom shared his knowledge of Africa to assist me, sometimes I was down and he picked me up... and then he shared his love of Africa to put together a package of shirts and footballs, so I could dish them out to the local kids and also demonstrate my silky skills on the ball (a small part of this may not be true.)

It is apt that that platform is called Just Giving, because that is what Tom has always done.. however he now finds himself with the tables very much turned on him and in a position where his friends and United family can finally try to give a little bit back.

Tom is based in the States and needs funding to assist with his cancer treatment.. so what can this Northern lad exiled in Watford do? I am going to hit Mo-vember with not only a tach... (I have never grown one in my life, so lets hope it grows!) but due to my background being from St Helens and the extensive ribbing I receive of it being merseyside (I used a small M on purpose there) I am going to grow my curly hair to sport with said tach, then if I hit the target I will get myself a shell suit for one of our home fixtures and sport the full Scouser look. (I need to add here I was born in 71 and Merseyside did not exist, therefore I am indeed from Lancashire)

So there you have it folks.. (Aye.. Aye... Calm Down!) I look forward to your donations to help our pal Tom out... and I don't look forward to my day in a shell suit....