A FORMER head physio at Reading football club and Sherfieldon-Loddon resident has launched a new sports injury and performance centre with backing from two Premier League footballers.

England international Gary Cahill and former Reading FC striker Shane Long are backing a new sports injury and performance centre in Reading set up by Sherfield-on-Loddon resident Luke Anthony.

GoPerform is a new venture by former Premier League medical and sports science staff, where amateurs will receive the same elite-level treatment as professionals, set up by Mr Anthony, and soft tissue therapist Dan Buchanan who has worked at Derby County and Reading FC.

The state-of-the-art centre in Reading has elite-level equipment and technology.

Former Reading FC players Adam Federici and Jobi McAnuff and current player, Chris Gunter were in attendance as the facility was officially launched on Wednesday, 6 December.

Chelsea and England defender, Gary Cahill, said: “GoPerform is a great idea. They have the same equipment, staff and knowledge as the biggest football teams in the UK so I know that local clubs, athletes and pros across a variety of sports will get access to amazing treatment.

Southampton striker, Shane Long, added: “I worked with this team at Reading FC and I would trust them with any injury or niggle. I think GoPerform will be great for the town and I really like how it will help pros - and amateur sportspeople - reach their goals.”

Clinical director Mr Anthony, said: “We’re really excited about returning to Reading and working with the sporting community.

Whether you’ve picked up a new injury, struggling with an old one, or you’re training for an event, we can provide you with a unique support programme.”