Bradford men meet Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag

The Dutchman and former England captain Terry Butcher cheered on players from Bradford’s The Orchard, a Lifehouse on Leeds Road, at an annual football tournament run by The Salvation Army.

The five-a-side Partnership Trophy brought together more than 20 teams from Salvation Army services across the UK.

The Orchard, which provides supported accommodation for up to 42 people, reached the quarter-finals with their team Goals Allowed.

Erik ten Hag and Terry Butcher attended the event (Image: Google)

This year’s tournament, held at Goals in Manchester last Thursday, was supported by the Guardiola Sala Foundation (GSF), a humanitarian charity set up by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.

Ten Hag said: “It was fantastic to attend today’s event in Manchester with The Salvation Army. The organisation does great work in supporting homeless people to rebuild their lives.

“Homelessness is a difficult problem and anything I can do to raise awareness by coming to events like this is important. It was great to see everyone playing football together, showing energy, spirit and teamwork to promote wellbeing.”

Terry Butcher, who played in three FIFA World Cups, gave a moving speech about his experience of tackling depression after he lost his son to suicide.

The Orchard's team with Butcher (Image: Google)

The Orchard worker Foday Janko said: “We’re thrilled that both Erik ten Hag and Terry Butcher could join us for the day and that they, along with Guardiola Sala Foundation, have supported us at this year’s event and send our heartfelt thanks to them all.

"It’s encouraging for our service users to see people giving up their time, not to mention a real boost to their self-esteem and confidence, seeing that they’re on the right path and there is hope for the future.

“We were delighted to make the quarter-finals of The Partnership Trophy. Our lads showed stamina, skill and enthusiasm and it was a great day out."

The tournament was a great success (Image: Google)

The Orchard players Wayne, 42, and Gary, 35, both became homeless after suffering tragedies.

The former said: “Playing football gets us interacting, we get to meet others and it’s good team building. The Partnership Trophy atmosphere is brilliant, it’s a good day out and it lifts your spirits.” 

Gary added: “The Partnership Trophy has absolutely amazing, there’s been such encouragement from the people here and it’s great to get out here and do something and keep ourselves motivated.”