Exclusive: Pompey, Plymouth, Ipswich Town, Leeds United and Blackpool “Goated player”gives thanks to supporters after gesture…

Portsmouth Football Club, affectionately known as Pompey, along with Plymouth, Ipswich Town, Leeds United, and Blackpool, are expressing gratitude to their supporters for their generous gesture.

David Norris, a beloved figure among Portsmouth fans, is expressing his heartfelt thanks for the overwhelming support he received in retaining one of his most cherished possessions.

Initially, the 42-year-old considered selling his League One winner’s medal, earned during the 2003/04 season with Plymouth Argyle, on X, formerly Twitter, to raise funds for legal representation. He alleged that his parents had absconded with his savings, leaving him in need of legal assistance to address the situation.

In response to Norris’ predicament, Plymouth Argyle fans launched a fundraiser on JustGiving, initially aiming for £1,000 but ultimately raising £6,000 from 375 supporters. Thanks to the unity within the football community, Norris was able to retain his cherished medal.

Expressing his gratitude on X, Norris posted a photo of his medal, stating, “Staying with me. Thank you so much, everyone—Plymouth & Portsmouth fans, as well as other teams I’ve played for, and those I didn’t. Overwhelmed by the support and the opportunity to recoup some funds now.”

Norris, renowned for his time at Fratton Park, particularly for his memorable goal against arch-rivals Southampton during the 2011/2012 season, had a diverse career, including stints at Plymouth Argyle, Ipswich Town (where he served as captain under Roy Keane), and other clubs such as Leeds United, Peterborough United, Yeovil Town, Blackpool, and Salford City.

Today marks his 42nd birthday, and Norris continues to play football, currently with Lancaster City in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, the seventh tier of English football.