Purdie hopeful majority of players will be available for testimonial

Rob Purdie is hopeful both teams will have 17 players available as he prepares for his testimonial tomorrow.

The 36-year-old - who amassed over 450 appearances during his time at Hereford United and Hereford FC - will be saying a final farewell to supporters at Edgar Street  on Sunday (kick-off 1.30pm). Purdie said that every player he contacted said they were available to play, but some, including Hull City's Jarrod Bowen, have since had to withdraw. 

"Getting players has been the hardest thing," said Purdie.

"You have to decide whether to ask 40 or 50 players, but that means I will have too many, or keep it select and hope people come. Every player I put out has said yes, but now a few cant make it.

"I could even get a message on the morning of the game saying someone isn't coming.

"It's out of my control but I cant help but feel guilty to the fans if players have to pull out. I'm hoping to have 17 players for each team on the day which should be great.

"People like Matt Baker are the ones I haven't seen for a long time now; he was here he first time I played for Hereford United.

"It's been 10 times harder than it thought to arrange and to make sure it all goes smoothly. 

"Without help from people like Ellen Watkins, Joanie Roberts, Keith Hall, Jamie Griffiths and Reg Reynolds, the day would never be going ahead. I'm proud of what I've put together but I'm glad you only get one testimonial."

Purdie said it was his idea to have a Hereford United XI v Hereford FC match.

"It gives the fans and the players something back for my career and I wouldn't have it any other way," said Purdie.

"I want to battle against my friends and not a 20 yearr-old old pro from a Premier League club who has no idea about what it means to play at Edgar Street. 

"Everyone will play and hopefully as much as they can manage. Whether they are still the best player on the pitch or struggle with fitness, it doesn't matter, it's being here that is the main thing."

Purdie is famed for his versatility, but is hopeful of playing in central midfield for Hereford United XI. His team-mates will include Wayne Brown, Ryan Green, Tony James, Paul Parry, Gavin Williams and Steve Guinan, with Graham Turner managing the side.

"When I rang Graham, I was praying he would come and he straight away said he would be delighted," said Purdie. 

"That is as big as any of the players coming for me. Peter beadle being there is massive as well.

"He will be around the changing rooms seeing all the boys and then take his seat in the stand for the game. Myself and the fans will get the chance to thank him for the work he did for both Hereford sides. I'm hoping to play midfield, it is where the Hereford United team are short. 

"Myself and Graham will speak about the team, but he is the gaffer so it will be his way. Playing against friends will be great. Greeny was always going to be in the Hereford United team with me.

"We need a competitive team and I've shared all my big moments with him on the pitch alongside me. It will be an honour to play with him one last time."

Purdie said he wants to be remembered as someone who played for both clubs with honesty and passion.

"I can honestly say I never played for Hereford because of the money," he said. 

"I played with commitment and passion regardless of performance and am proud to have the career I have had at a club like Hereford."

Five lucky supporters who won a raffle will get to play 10 minutes each during the second half, while there will be plenty of pre-match activities taking place prior to the game.

"The game is for the fans as well as the players," said Purdie.

"It will be one last time to all thank each other for the time they have put into the club. I hope everyone enjoys the day and gets something out of it. 

"I am looking forward to pulling on the shirt one last time."

Tickets for the game are still available to buy online here, as well at the ground up until 1pm on the day of the game.