AN Oxford United legend has thrown his support behind the club’s newest fans’ initiative.
James Constable, the U’s second-highest all-time goalscorer, has agreed to be an ambassador for the Armed Forces and veterans supporters’ group.
It is the brainchild of United supporter Andy Wilmer, who approached the 36-year-old about getting involved.
And Constable, now at Banbury United in a joint player and assistant manager role under ex-U’s teammate Andy Whing, was more than happy to accept.
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He said: “I’m honoured to be asked to be an ambassador for the Oxford United Armed Forces supporters’ group, I have always been a big supporter of our Armed Forces.
“The forces continue to make so many sacrifices, if there is a way of me giving back I’m more than happy to help out.
“Combining the supporters’ group with a football club that means so much to us all is a perfect match and I’m looking forward to getting things started.”
Wilmer, who lives in North Yorkshire, joined the forces in 2002 and served in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan.
Andy Wilmer during his time in the forces
Andy Wilmer
But the 37-year-old was injured in 2013, before being medically discharged two years later, and admits the change has been tough to deal with.
He said: “I’ve found the transition quite difficult, as quite a lot of people do.
“It’s a bit of a shock to the system as you’re wrapped up in the military bubble.”
The project manager first thought of setting up an Armed Forces and veterans supporters’ group two years ago, but returned to it after speaking to a similar club at fellow Sky Bet League One side Portsmouth.
Wilmer approached United earlier this year and the club have backed the plans, with ideas already taking shape.
Oxford United fan Andy Wilmer poses with a shirt marking James Constable’s 100th goal for the club
Andy Wilmer poses with the shirt marking James Constable's 100th Oxford United goal
As well as building on the U’s annual military days, which are normally held once a season, proposals include pre-match dinners and ticket offers.
The group is still looking to build up momentum, but Wilmer hopes it can make a difference to like-minded U’s fans far and wide.
He said: “The goal is having a committee and making decisions the club asks for advice on.
“For some people, football is what they live and breath.
“It’s about supporting each other and bringing together two things that people love.”
To get involved, contact @andywilmer on Twitter or email andywilmer@live.co.uk.
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