A football club has banned micro shin pads worn by stars like Jack Grealish after a horror injury to a player.
Forward Riley Martin suffered a double-leg break in a match at the weekend.
He was wearing micro pads at the time.
While shin guards are mandatory under the laws of the game, the rules around them are vague.
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They currently state that pads must be covered entirely by socks, made of a suitable material (rubber, plastic or similar) and provide a reasonable degree of protection.
Riley was playing for non-league Ilfracombe Town, Devon, against Bridport in Dorset when the injury happened.
The fixture was abandoned after he broke his fibula and tibia during a 50-50 challenge with the home goalkeeper, as reported by Need To Know.
Ilfracombe Town has now implemented an immediate and non-negotiable ban on the use of micro shin pads across all age groups and squads, from youth teams through to senior teams.
After the match, Ilfracombe chairman Nick Jupp said: “Today our club experienced one of the toughest moments we’ve faced in recent seasons.
“During a 50/50 challenge in our match against Bridport, Riley Malin suffered a horrendous injury to his left leg, resulting in a broken fibula and tibia.
“It was an incident no one ever wants to witness on a football pitch, and our thoughts are firmly with Riley and his family tonight.
“On behalf of the entire club, I want to express our deep gratitude to Bridport’s committee, who showed exceptional generosity and sportsmanship by donating the full 50/50 prize draw winnings to Riley.
“We would also like to give a heartfelt thanks to the match referee, who generously donated his match fee.
“These gestures epitomise the best of our football community, and we are sincerely appreciative.
“I could not be prouder of our own players.
“Their immediate response, care, and support for Riley was second to none—a reflection not only of their commitment to their teammate, but of their respect and friendship for him as a person.
“Moments like this show the true character of our squad.
“There is no question that Riley will miss the remainder of the season, but the entire club stands firmly behind him as he begins his recovery journey.
“We wish him strength, healing, and all the very best in the weeks and months ahead.
“There is no blame on Riley at all for wearing micro shin pads, but I think if he had more coverage on the shin area with bigger shin pads, the injury could have been less than it was.
“I think clubs need to look closely at player welfare and safety regarding these micro shin pads. The support we’ve had on social media so far is unbelievable.
“A lot of grassroots clubs in the South West have banned them since we put out a statement on Sunday evening.”
FA guidance on shin pads says: “The amount of shin physically covered is an important consideration, as any part of the shin that is not covered is not as well protected.
“Micro or mini shin pads may therefore increase the risk of injury due to the smaller amount of shin covered compared to larger-sized shin pads.
“We advise that when considering the protection offered by shin pads, safety is prioritised by ensuring a good proportion of the shin area is covered and therefore protected.
“This decision has been made in the interest of player safety and welfare, and to ensure that all players are equipped with protective gear that meets required safety standards.”
A JustGiving page set up to help Riley’s recovery had raised £530 of a £1,000 target at the time of writing.
Micro shin pads cover a smaller amount of the shin compared to larger-sized shin pads, which cover the whole area.
The sizes of mini shin pads vary, but some can be small enough to fit in the palm of a hand.
Many Premier League stars wear them.
Some say that smaller shin pads are more comfortable and less bulky to wear.
Jack Grealish is known for wearing them with his socks pulled low as part of a personal superstition that started during his youth.
This trend has been copied on football pitches across the country, including at non-professional and junior levels.
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