Sheffield United midfielder, Tom Davies, has chopped off his signature long blonde locks to fundraise for a men’s mental health charity.
The 25-year-old has had a difficult time following his summer transfer from Everton, having not started any of the Blades’ league games, and recently picking up yet another injury.
On Tuesday, Davies opened up about his struggles on Instagram, saying: “It’s been a really hard time for me and I’m doing my best to find some peace with the situation. While this has happened it’s made me realise how much I need to pay attention to my mental health as well as my physical.
“Therefore I’m doing a fundraiser for @jamesplaceuk by cutting off the golden locks. I hope you can support the charity as it’s doing great things in the UK and is aiming to open three new centres in the next three years. This will help so many men who are in need of support.”
The fundraiser is still ongoing, but has already received an outpouring of support, raising well over its £1000 target.
A spokesperson for James’ Place UK said: “We massively appreciate Tom’s fundraising mission for James’ Place, and his continued support for the work we do in helping men in suicidal crisis find future hope.”
James’ Place UK is a charity offering live-saving treatment to suicidal men in their centres in Liverpool and London.
The spokesperson said: “It’s important to realise that footballers are just like everyone else and can be hugely impacted by everyday life events. For Tom to speak out about his mental health hopefully sends a message to men across the country that there is no shame or stigma in talking about your feelings.”
Davies took to Instagram to thank fans for their support, and to debut his new hairstyle, saying: “Thank you all again for the donations so far and let me know what you think of my new look for mental health!”
Donations can still be made to Davies’ GoFundMe, with all proceeds going to James’ Place UK.