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Sometimes, football isn’t about winning or losing, it’s about togetherness and a shared experience, and the footballing world has come together this week to prove just how true that is.
As the EFL season pushes into the final run-in, with only a handful of games left across the Championship, League One, and League Two, the importance of results on the pitch has been put into perspective by matters off the field.
Up and down the country and throughout the footballing ladder, there are countless individuals who pour their heart and soul into their respective clubs.
From coaching staff to cleaners, caterers to chairmen, everyone has a role to play. And sadly, one man who has given everything to his club has received the worst possible news.
Chesterfield FC release statement on Phil Kirk
Phil Kirk has been the co-owner of Chesterfield FC since 2022, investing in the club with his brother, Ashley. Since the pair took over, the club has returned to the Football League thanks to promotion to League Two last season.
Now, it has been announced that Kirk has been diagnosed with ‘inoperable’ cancer.
Taking to Twitter/X to share the news, the club wrote: “Chesterfield FC announces with deep regret that Phil Kirk has been recently diagnosed with inoperable cancer. Over the next few months, he will be receiving treatment to prolong his life, but this is not expected to deliver a cure.
“Work has already started on a robust long term financial and governance plan for the club. This will be disclosed in due course but includes material financial backing on and off the pitch and does not include a sale.
“In the meantime, please give Phil and his family some time and space. Phil will be at the Fans’ Forum on Friday. No further comment will be made at this stage.”
Heartfelt messages pour in for Chesterfield FC’s Phil Kirk
In response to the announcement, various clubs from the EFL reached out to show their support for Kirk and Chesterfield.
Stockport County’s account replied: “Sending our love and best wishes to Phil, his family and his loved ones at this difficult time.”
Shrewsbury Town said: “Such sad news. Our thoughts are with Phil, his family and all at Chesterfield.”
Harrogate Town’s account wrote, “Our thoughts are with Phil and his family at this time,” while the Luton Town Twitter added, “Love and best wishes from all at Kenilworth Road to Phil, his family and friends.”
Meanwhile, Chesterfield fans were naturally distraught at the news, with one supporter writing: “The impact of the Kirk brothers, and Phil in particular, in terms of what they’ve done, and continue to do for Chesterfield FC cannot ever be underestimated. They gave us our club back.”
Another crowned Kirk as a “Spireite legend,” and after what he has achieved there, that is most certainly true.