Preston are winning bidder in charity auction for Graham Alexander’s special boots

The former North End full-back enjoyed a long and illustrious career, spanning more than 1,000 games – including 421 in North End colours.

In true fairytale style, Alexander’s final act as a player saw him score a brilliant last minute free-kick for PNE to salvage a point against Charlton Athletic at Deepdale in April 2012.

The current Salford City boss decided to donate the boots he was wearing when he netted that historic goal to help raise money for NHS charities.

Boot The Virus is a campaign set up by PNE fan Kenny Marland and his partner Joanne Dalton to help the NHS through the Covid-19 crisis.

They have invited players to donate a pair of signed boots which are then auctioned off.

Kenny, who lives in Halifax, is currently undergoing treatment for cancer and wanted to thank the NHS for the care he has received.

Alexander had no hesitation in donating his boots to the cause – and the special pair of Adidas footwear will have pride of place at Deepdale after North End owner Trevor Hemmings purchased the boots for £5,000.

In total, the charity campaign has raised a superb amount of £70,301, with the current North End squad’s boots contributing more than £5,000 to the total.

Midfielders Paul Gallagher and Ben Pearson attracted bids of £550 and £500 respectively for the signed boots they donated.

Speaking after the auction ended, Alexander told pnefc.net: “Firstly I’d like to thank Kenny and Joanne for asking me to be involved in their campaign and to congratulate them on the amount of money they’ve raised so far.

“These boots are special to me not just because of the goal I scored, but because it was the perfect way to say thank you for all the great support and brilliant times I enjoyed at my second home, Deepdale.

“Finally, my sincere gratitude also goes to Mr Hemmings for buying them on behalf of Preston North End, a great gesture to keep them where they belong.”