A Football Manager 26 player's virtual managerial prowess translated into a tangible win for non-league Kings Park Rangers (KPR) in Suffolk. Pardoe Kendrick, 23, from Hereford, led his online KPR team from the Eastern Counties League Division One North to the Premier League on the game. His success inspired him to contact the club on social media, leading to his involvement in real-life tactics.

Kendrick attended KPR's 3-2 victory over Framlingham Town on Wednesday night, suggesting a 4-4-2 formation change based on his in-game strategies, which the coaching staff incorporated. He described the experience as 'really enjoyable' and received praise from the club for his 500-mile journey and winning contribution. Kendrick, who initially took on the FM challenge as a 'bit of a joke', is not yet ready for real management but feels 'a part of something' after his virtual and real-life achievements.