Limited edition Mitre matchballs are to be used in the Sky Bet Championship this weekend, in a mark of respect for the fallen.
The balls are part of a campaign by EFL title sponsor Sky Bet to raise funds for this year’s Poppy Appeal, and along with the match-worn shirts will be auctioned later this month.
Both Sheffield Wednesday and Fulham will have the iconic poppy logo emblazoned on their shirts and prior to kick-off, the captains will lay down poppy wreaths at Craven Cottage.
In two previous campaigns working alongside the legion, Sky Bet have raised over £200,000.
Sky Bet spokesman Sandro Di Michele said: “We’re delighted to be continuing our relationship with the Royal British Legion into a third season after raising a terrific amount of money last year.
“The poppy balls are fitting way to show our support to this worthiest of causes.”
The Royal British Legion’s Chris Vernazza said: “We’d like to extend our gratitude to Sky Bet for supporting the Legion through the shirt auction and the poppy balls this year.
“The money raised for the Poppy Appeal goes towards supporting vital services such as The Royal British Legion’s Family Holiday Breaks, providing the families of serving and ex-service personnel the chance to take a break away from the strains of everyday life.”
To register your interest in the auction, please visit: www.skybet.com/poppy