THE PROGRESSION of a football player on loan to Workington AFC has led to a welcome cash boost for the club.

Will Vaulks played for Workington Reds when he was 19, on loan from Tranmere Rovers.

He spell at Workington took place during their 2012/2013 campaign

Since then the Welsh professional footballer has gone on to represent his country as well as playing for Cardiff City FC and Rotherham United.

His progression since playing for Reds has led to a Fifa Solidarity Payment for the non-league side, to the tune of £4,789.

Reds secretary Alec Graham uncovered the information that the club were due a windfall. He said: “I was doing some research about the solidarity payment scheme which rewards clubs who have helped in the development of a player up to the age of twenty three. It becomes active when a player moves from one association to another.”

FIFA’s scheme rewards clubs like Workington with grants of various sizes dependant on the player’s age and the size of subsequent transfer fees.

The FA asked Mr Graham to confirm Vaulks’ history as a former Red and advised him to get in touch with his current team, Cardiff City.

Reds made contact with the Championship club at the start of December and they received an early Christmas present in the form of the £4,789. The sum is 0.5 per cent of Vaulks’ transfer fee.

It was a welcome cash boost as the non-league club faces unprecedented difficulties.

Mr Graham said: “I am delighted that I’ve been able to help the club in this way, this season has been a titanic struggle financially with all the uncertainty over Covid-19, the lack of sponsorship and income through the turnstiles.”

Vaulks made 26 appearances for Reds, scoring two goals during his tenure.