ALTRINCHAM'S players have received an unexpected but hugely-appreciated visit from none other than top FIFA-listed referee Anthony Taylor.

Fresh from officiating at the Euro 2024 championships in Germany, Anthony took time out to pop in to Alty's Egerton training headquarters in Knutsford to chat with the players, manager Phil Parkinson and his assistant Neil Sorvel and the rest of the Robins' coaching and backroom staff.

The object of the exercise, apart from underlining the affection he has for the club, was to provide a timely run-through of the laws of the game, how they are implemented and how a better understanding can have a beneficial impact on performance levels.

With the Vanarama National League campaign opener at home to Woking now less than a fortnight away, it was a welcome insight for the players, who, as our picture shows, listened intently to Anthony's every word.

Long established and acknowledged as one of our very best referees, it was a fantastic gesture by Anthony to call in and spend time with the squad and staff so soon after returning from such a high-pressure assignment as officiating at the Euros, and we would like to place on record our thanks to him and wish him all the best for the season ahead.