Claridge returns to Weymouth

Media pundit Steve Claridge is to come out or retirement, find his football boots and turn out for Weymouth Football Club in their time of need. All at no cost to the club.

He trained with their squad this evening and is set to play against Bromley on Saturday.

Claridge last played for Weymouth six years ago.

"He can still be a major playing asset and will bring great professional qualities to our set-up. At what is a very difficult time for the club, he will give us a boost and he is to be applauded for putting his reputation on the line to help us out," said acting chairman Dave Higson.

Last weekend the Weymouth directors set a deadline of 10 days to find new investment and/or sponsorship of around £50,000.

If that money isn't forthcoming the directors say they may have to put the club into administration. Last March the club was said to have debts of around £500,000. Conference side Salisbury have gone into Administration today after the taxman issued winding up proceedings over an outstanding £200,000 bill. They have been up for sale, for £1, for most of the last six months.

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