A visit from his favourite Walsall Football Club player proved a real tonic for patient Philip Cockbill who had been feeling really fed up after spending more than two months in the Manor Hospital in critical care.

Philip, aged 72, has had a number of serious health issues and has needed to be on a ventilator.

Staff Nurse Jade Hind said: “Phil had been on all three units – our Intensive Therapy and High Dependency Units and now our new Intensive Care Unit and, understandably, he has had enough of being in hospital.

“We found out that he’s a Walsall supporter and that his favourite player is goalkeeper Liam Roberts so we thought it would lift his spirits if he there was any way he could have a visit from them.”

Jade liaised with Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Communications and Fundraising teams and arrangements were made for a special visit as part of the first team’s trip to the hospital before Christmas.

Staff kept the visit a secret and when Philip saw Liam, along with Manager Dean Keates, he couldn’t believe his eyes.

“You’ve made my day!” he said as he enjoyed a chat about Keates’ playing career, recent performances and pitch conditions.

Roberts also presented Phil with a pair of signed gloves.

Jade added: “We just wanted to improve Phil’s mood because he’s been in hospital such a long time and he’s been really fed up. It was really kind of the players to find time for him and it really cheered him up.”

Roberts said: “It was our pleasure to visit Philip – I can’t imagine having to spend so long in hospital and we wish him all the best in his recovery.”