Support for Former Wrexham Player's Rehabilitation
Wrexham AFC's Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have contributed £8,000 towards the rehabilitation of former player Jordan Tunnicliffe following a severe injury.
At 32 years old, Tunnicliffe suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his knee while playing for Farnborough Football Club in February. After undergoing surgery, he is expected to miss the entire upcoming season.
Crowdfunding Effort and Financial Challenges
To assist with the costs of his operation and recovery, the club initiated a crowdfunding campaign with a target of £20,000. This support is crucial as Tunnicliffe will be without income and his contract is set to expire in May.
Community and Celebrity Support
The defender has received over 180 individual cash pledges. He expressed his gratitude for the generosity shown by many, including celebrities, club executive Humphrey Ker, former goalkeeper Ben Foster, and fans alike.
"I don't think I will ever be able to thank them enough to be honest,"
"When I was at Wrexham they were fantastic with me then."
Personal Impact and Motivation
Tunnicliffe, who has an eight-month-old son, revealed that he initially contemplated ending his football career after 16 years due to the injury. However, the overwhelming financial support he received online changed his perspective.
As of 25 March, the GoFundMe page dedicated to his injury has raised over £15,000.
"Now I've got the best opportunity to get back playing,"
said Tunnicliffe, who hails from Nuneaton, Warwickshire. He made 32 appearances for Wrexham between 2022 and 2024.
"It's motivated me to go back and play and I want to do that because of the generosity of everybody.
It's been a big help. I can go back to supporting my family."
