Jump directly to the content
LION-HEARTED TONY

Millwall skipper Tony Craig to donate some of his testimonial cash to Headley Court

Long-standing defender determined to help injured servicemen after 'humbling' visit to military hospital

TONY CRAIG's good nature means he's always had a song in his heart and a trick up his sleeve in his role as Millwall captain.
In the 14 years since signing on as a youth trainee Craig has constantly had a word of encouragement for his team mates and is never lost for an idea on how beat the opposition.
But nothing took his breath away like the day last month when he walked into Headley Court.

So much so that the 31-year-old defender will donate some of the money raised from his testimonial game against old club Brentford on Saturday to the

Tony Craig will donate some testimonial money to rehabilitory military hospital
3
Tony Craig will donate some testimonial money to rehabilitory military hospitalCredit: Millwall

that treats badly wounded servicemen and even builds prosthetic limbs.
He explained: "I can only say that my visit was a most humbling experience .
"I was out of football last season for around six months with a knee injury and there were times when I felt pretty low, but I could never compare my situation to the injuries I came across at Headley Court.
"Going there truly puts everything into perspective.
"Those soldiers put their lives on the line for their country and ended up with such awful injuries. But it was amazing - they all wore such big smiles and I was speechless at the way the servicemen were happy just to get on with things.
"I will remember my visit all of my life and that's why I want to help. Everyone made me feel so welcome and, although the facilities at
Headley Court are extremely good, I want to do what I can for the hospital and its patients.
“There's a lot of people who moan out there; come here and we've got nothing to moan about. It's an eye opener and I've enjoyed being here. I'm glad they're a part of my day.“The most striking experience was speaking to the servicemen and hearing some of their stories.

Tony Craig was lost for words at Headly Court
3
Tony Craig was lost for words at Headley CourtCredit: Millwall
Tony Craig went to visit guys at Headley Court
3
Tony Craig went to visit guys at Headley CourtCredit: Millwall

“To see how they made the prosthetic legs and arms and the cost is unbelievable. You think these things come and go – they're not cheap. I'm so pleased I can donate to a good cause.”
Craig's testimonial is at The New Den, kick off 3pm. Ticket prices are £10 for adults, £5 for under 16s and seniors.
More than 20 servicemen from Headley Court will be there, along with
Tony's wife Jocelyn and daughter Scarlett. Craig was awarded a testimonial for his total of 10 years as a Millwall player spread over three spells. He's also played for Wycombe, Crystal Palace, Leyton Orient and Brentford.
Sadly, the Lions' Division One play-off loss to Barnsley means they won't line up against the Bees in the league, but he promises a full-on game on Saturday.
"This is the last of the pre-season friendlies and everyone will be out pushing for first team starting places," he said. "We're over the play-off disappointment.
"That defeat was hard to take but I've twice lost play-offs before (with Millwall and Brentford) but on both occasions won promotion the following season.
"So fingers crossed.
"I'm in the final year of my contract so this is a very important season for me. I want to keep going as long as my body tells me it can.
"I love being Millwall captain, advising the youngsters taking responsibility on and off the pitch, having a word with anyone who may step out of line.
"I'm feel privileged. And that's why I want to help Headley Court. As much as anything I'm looking forward to the roar from the fans for the soldiers on the pitch. Let's hope it's a great day."
* For more information visit 

Topics
Machibet
WEEKLY 77,777 BDT CASH LUCKY DRAW!
18+ | Play Responsibly | gamblingtherapy.org | T&Cs Apply
  • Huge variety of game types
  • Range of Valuable rewards 
  • Bangladesh’s most trusted online casino
Show More
Welcome to MachiBet and discover a huge range of games, from Baccarat to Roulette to Andar Bahar with live dealers, as well as tons of exciting slot games. MachiBet was founded by a group of passionate sports betting enthusiasts with the goal of providing users with the best gaming experience. Over the years, we have collected and analyzed decades of user feedback to create the ultimate gaming platform for our valued customers.