Accrington Stanley has recruited the skills of a blind trainee sports masseur to work with players and staff.

Stephen Troy, 42, who has played international football for England, was enlisted on a week-long placement to work alongside the team's physiotherapist Sean Riley.

And during his stay he attended training sessions at the Livingstone Road club, and worked on midfielder Rory Prendergast's stiff back.

Stephen is studying sports massage and aromatherapy at the Royal National College for the Blind, in Herefordshire, and hopes to work at a sports club, or fitness centre, after finishing his course this summer.

Leeds United fan Stephen, who comes from Stalybridge, near Ashton-under-Lyne, said: "I came to Accrington because my girlfriend, Louise Simpson, had spoken to the club regarding a study she was doing on disabled access and pricing policies at grounds around the country, and she had spoken to Rob Heyes who works at the club.

"She said Rob was really friendly, and Accrington Stanley sounded like a great little club. So I asked Rob for a work placement and they agreed."

Stephen, who was born blind, said: "I used to play football, using a special ball containing lead shot which makes a rattling noise. And I played for the England totally-blind squad in 2000.

"We competed in a ten-day tournament and played Spain, Greece, Colombia and South Korea. I don't play seriously any more, but still go to the odd training session."

Talking about the club, Stephen added: "Everyone here has been great -- the staff, players and supporters."

Stephen now hopes to return to Stanley for another week's placement in the summer.

Rob said: "This has been the first work placement of this kind. It's been very useful to hear how we can improve things for visually-impaired fans. We have a commentary service for blind people and we've discussed various things with Stephen. He's been very welcome."