New summer grant is ‘brilliant’ for players who need support – Andy Liddell

Andy Liddell, the current Fitness Coach at Preston North End and former Beneficiary Liaison Officer at The Players Foundation, has hailed the charity’s new summer grant offer as a ‘massive development.’

Andy has huge experience as a player, having made over 600 appearances in the Premier League and EFL for clubs including Barnsley, Wigan Athletic and Oldham Athletic, before moving into coaching. 

After 19 years as a professional footballer, Andy appreciates more than most the challenges that players face when they come out of the game. 

And for those former pros who need extra help, Andy believes the Foundation’s new summer grant initiative is vital: ‘Not every footballer is earning 250 grand a week and playing in the Premier League – there are many ex-players who need support, especially over the summer holiday period, which is very expensive for families. 

‘I would urge anyone who meets the qualifying criteria to apply as soon as possible because this is a great chance to receive some critical support. For something like this to be offered by The Players Foundation is fantastic news, it’s a brilliant development.’

In an interview with the Foundation, Andy also reflected on the importance of looking ahead: ‘You have a big portion of your life left to live when you finish playing. If I had my time again, I would be planning, I would be taking coaching badges and I’d be taking a mechanical engineering degree or whatever it takes to create a structured career.

‘I work in football at Preston North End and get to interact with players every day, but nothing compares to playing and nothing can replace it.’
• The application window for Summer Holiday Essentials 2026 is open until May 31st and you can apply here.