The Dennyboys have arranged a fund-raising evening in support of injured skipper Rob Morgan, which will see an England World Cup winner coming to the club.

Nobby Stiles – one of Sir Alf Ramsey’s team back in 1966 – will be providing an evening of entertaining chat, candour and wisecracks.

Thackley spokesman Mick Lodge said: “Our first team and club captain Rob was injured in the third minute of our home league match against Staveley MW on December 10 last year.

“His injuries (severe knee ligament damage) have required one operation so far and another is scheduled for October or November later this year.

“It is likely to be February 2013 before Rob can return to light training and he will then be looking at a return to football in August 2013, if all goes well, in time for the season after next."

Alongside Manchester United legend Stiles at the event on Saturday, April 14, will be his John, who used to play for Leeds United and has a connection with Thackley.

Lodge said: “Our manager Vince Brockie was a playing colleague of John Stiles in their time together at Leeds United and Doncaster Rovers.

“The evening should provide a very entertaining look back at those days, as well as the usual brand of humour and anecdotes from Nobby and John.”

Baris, sponsors of the Northern Counties East League in which Thackley play, have set the ball rolling with a donation of £150 to the cause in support of Morgan.

Terry Damms, of Baris and also chairman of Staveley, said: “It was a terrible outcome for Rob from the tackle with Chris Coy but, as we all know, Chris is one of the most genuine players in the league and it was just one of those things that happen in football.”

Lodge added: “Knowing Chris from his time at Thackley, when he broke the club record for goals scored in a season, I couldn’t agree more.

“The tackle was one of thousands Rob has been involved in during his career and let’s hope he recovers to make thousands more.

“As a club Thackley would like to place on record their thanks to Terry and Baris for their extremely generous donation on behalf of our captain.”

The event takes place in the clubhouse at 8pm, with tickets available for £15.

There will be a sale of memorabilia, a raffle and a pie-and-pea supper.

Tickets are on sale at Dennyfield on match days prior to the evening or can be purchased by ringing 01274-615571.